“We live in the USA. I’ve been told crewed catamaran charters are the best way to enjoy a yachting vacation in the Virgin Islands. Do you have any suggestions as to the most convenient, best airports? Jenny S.“
ANSWER
Hi Jenny. We are thrilled to hear about your plans – a travel writer once described a Caribbean sailing yacht charter as, “One of the top five vacations in the world!”
If you wish to explore the US Virgin Islands (USVI), then the Cyril E. King International Airport (airport code: STT), inSt.Thomas is your best bet.
ANSWER CONTINUES
Note: There is also an airport in St. Croix, the Henry E. Rohlsen International Airport, St. Croix (STX). However, very few catamaran and sailboat rental companies operate from St. Croix, as there are very few calm anchorage areas.
So who flies into STT (St. Thomas)? As to major airlines flying from the United States to Saint Thomas, Delta has flights to Saint Thomas Cyril E King, American Airlines has flights to STT Cyril E King, and US Airways has flights to Saint Thomas Cyril E King International Airport. You’ll find both direct flights as well as connecting flights through San Juan, Puerto Rico in the Spanish Virgin Islands.
NOW WHAT?
Now that you know HOW to get there, here are three crewed catamaran sailing yachts available for charter in the Virgin Islands.Sunreef 70 catamaran MUSE
The owner of a 45 meter Heesen motoryacht wants to see you on the red carpet at theCannes Film Festival, and hopes a30% charter discount will convince you to attend the soiree.
Mediterranean yacht charter stalwart, motor yacht SEA DWELLER is available for theCannes Film Festivalas well as the Monaco Grand Prix, at a rate of $21,000 USD per day, with a minimum 5 day rental. Her regular daily rate is $30,000 USD.
YACHT SPECIFICATIONS
Built by Heesen, a leading Dutch builder of superyacht vessels. Motor yacht SEA DWELLER was refit to spectacular condition in 2011.
ACCOMMODATIONS
She accommodates 10 guests sleeping. In specific, 12 guests cruising, total.
Her cabin configuration includes a master suite with king double. Her ensuite bath has a jacuzzi tub, shower, and twin sinks.
Two queen double cabins have ensuite showers.
Ensuite showers also exist in her 2 twin cabins.
SOCIAL FUNCTIONS
The perfect yacht for social functions, there is ample deckspace for up to 80 guests for cocktail parties. This scenario perfectly exemplifies while dockside in Cannes or along the quay in Monaco. NOTE: Actual headcount for static event yacht charters is subject to Owner’s final approval.
A multihull hopes to fill her last available slot for a crewed catamaran charter this summer. The owner of Sunreef 62 sail catamaran ANASSA offers anastonishing discount of 50%. It is a leisurely cruise from Reggio, Italy to Kos, Greece.
RATE
This beautiful yacht is normally € 22,000 per week plus expenses. Her special reduced rate for the week is € 11,000 EUROS plus expenses. VAT is included.
Catamaran sailboat ANASSA
YACHT SCHEDULE
Sailing catamaranANASSA is open the week of September 13th-20th . She is available to take her guests from the sun-kissed shores of the Italian Riviera. They then head to the delightfully warm and picturesque Greek Islands. Greece has traditional hillside, and whitewashed villages.
ABOUT THE BOAT
The catamaran launched in 2008. She is a popular fixture in the Greece yacht charter market for over 4 years. This sailing cat is well-equipped and offers a very nice interior style as well as teak decks right up to the bow. Accommodations for 8 to 10 guests are provided in 5 staterooms
ITINERARY FOR CHARTER SPECIAL
Captain Andreadis Prodromos has prepared a sample itinerary for this special cruise:
13th of September: Boarding at 5pm in Reggio and overnight sail to Cephalonia. Arrive in Cephalonia in the afternoon the next day.
Sept 14th: Overnight stay in Cephalonia
15th of Sept: Depart early in the morning for Trizonia, where you will spend the night.
Sept 16th: Early departure for the Corinth Canal and passage to Aegina. Overnight stay in Aegina
17th of September: Aegina to Syros
Sept 18th: Syros to Amorgos
19th of September: Amorgos to Kos
Sept 20th: Disembarkation in Kos at 5pm
September is a perfect time to cruise in the Mediterranean. The waters are still warm. Most of the summer tourists have departed for home. The anchorages are uncrowded and serene.
Yes, poor Leo. The “Django Unchained” star was hard at work, toiling away like the rest of us 9 to 5 “lunchpailers.” Specifically after being snubbed by the Oscar voters.
Well…maybe “toiling” is not the right word.
WHERE DID DiCAPRIO GO AFTER ACADEMY AWARDS?
DiCaprio skipped the Academy Awards ceremony. He then lounges on a docked yacht in southern California on Monday. Furthermore, surrounded by bikini-clad women. Ahhhh, the good life.
The actor went without a nomination for his work in Django, but co-star Christoph Waltz picked up the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while director Quentin Tarantino snared an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.
Leo was onboard, reshooting scenes. Moreover, for his upcoming movie, “The Wolf of Wall Street.” He sports white linen pants, sunglasses, and a slicked-back 80’s hairstyle. The 38 year-old actor portrays real-life stockbroker, Jordan Belfort, in a Martin Scorsese film. In specific, the film is about Belfort and his role in the Wall Street fraud case in the 1980’s.
MARGOT ROBBIE IN SWIMSUIT
Five women in bathing suits joined Leo on the yacht for the re-shoot. For instance, co-star Margot Robbie, dressed in an eye-catching gold one-piece bathing suit with a plunging neckline. Robbie plays Belfort’s wife, Nadine.
The 2013Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 31-Nov 4, 2013, has drawn to a close. Picture-perfect weather brought out record numbers of boating enthusiasts.
54th ANNUAL
The 54th installment of the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, FLIBS, covers six locations and over 3 million square feet of space. Exhibits range from yacht builders and designers, to exotic cars and brokerage yachts. A variety of boats are on display, both in water and on land – runabouts, center consoles, cabin cruisers, skiffs, sailing yachts, tenders, superyachts, megayachts, powerboats, catamarans, and monohull sailboats.
Of course the star attractions each year remain the extraordinary superyacht vessels that dominate the Caribbean yacht charter marketplace each winter.
“For us, FLIBS represents the launch of the winter charter season,” says Jana Sheeder , President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters. “This is our chance to introduce our clients to the winter season’s best options for Florida yacht charter vacations. Additionally, many of these yachts will consider relocating to the nearby islands to accept Bahamas yacht charter bookings.”
In addition to the hundreds of yachts on display, Sheeder points out the show is the perfect venue for inspecting and testing the hottest new watertoys.
“If we see a ‘must have’ toy that we feel will enhance the charter experience for our clients, we’ll be the first to promote it to the charter yacht owners. There is truly something for everyone at FLIBS.”
Caribbean yacht charter vacations are popular to American tourists. However, the Italian coastline draws far more visitors annually. This is for both land and sea holidays.
The most famous stretch of coastline in Italy is the Amalfi Coast. It stretches south from the peninsula of Sorrento. Here you will find multiple features. For instance, quaint fishing villages along a ragged-mountain cliffline, bordered by the clear, azure sea.
Amalfi Coast yacht charters take place along the northern end of the Bay of Naples. They often encompass the volcanic island of Ischia. Even more often, they include nearby Capri.
A popular destination while enjoying an Italy yacht charter is the town of Positano. Many flock here. For example, artists, rock stars, actors, and novelists have visited for decades. Here, you can climb the fabled narrow streets to visit one of the local designer showrooms and elegant boutiques, where clothes and sandals are made to order.
The city of Positano, Italy is located in the province of Salerno, and the region of Campania. The location coordinates on a map are: 40° 38?N 14°29?E Positano is 17km (10 miles) west of Amalfi; 51km (101 miles) west of Salerno; and 56km (35 miles) southeast of Naples.
The closest airport, suitable for private jets and regional commercial carriers is the Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (IATA: QSR, ICAO: LIRI), located in the municipality of Pontecagnano Faiano.
Many spectacular yachts will be cruising the Amalfi Coast. One impressive and elegant example is motoryacht CHECKMATE, a Benetti luxury yacht in the charter market.
HOW TO RENT A YACHT IN ITALY
Considering a getaway to Italy and the Amalfi Coast this summer? The most beautiful views are gained by sea – from the deck of your own private charter yacht. Here, you can relax far away from the tourists and the traffic and marvel as the pastel colors of the buildings dance in the setting sun…
The owner and crew of Crescent motor yacht OLGA have an exciting announcement! They are keen to secure a Caribbean yacht charter reservation. They want it during the upcoming St. Lucia Jazz Festival, April 30 – May 12.
HOW IS PRICE DISCOUNTED?
The popular mega yacht charter vessel waives all delivery fees. Thus, she can be in the islands of the Grenadines. She accepts bookings between April 26 and May 25. Take advantage of this opportunity!
ACTIVITIES IN ST. LUCIA
Discover St. Lucia and the Grenadines. There are many fun Caribbean activities. For instance, scuba diving, hiking, zip-lining, biking, and horseback riding abound. For a touch of tranquility, the amenities at several world renowned spas, resorts, and wellness centers in the Grenadines.
EDITOR’S NOTE
There is little reason to spend extra money visiting a spa. Crescent yacht OLGA (ex BARONESS), has a licensed massage therapist in the crew!!!
WATERTOYS
The yacht carries watertoys found on much larger superyachts. Motoryacht OLGA’s toy list includes 22’6″ Novurania with 150 hp Yamaha outboard engine, Yamaha 3-person waverunner, Dive compressor and SCUBA gear for certified divers. She also features snorkel equipment, 13′ Hobie Wave Catamaran, and 2, 2-person kayaks. In addition, she carries 2 paddle boards, towable toys including water skis, knee board, tube, molecule tube, surf boards, and fishing rods and gear.
ACCOMMODATIONS
There is room for you and your friends or family. For example, the yacht accommodates 8 guests in 5 staterooms.
CREW
What makes Olga amazing? Firstly, Olga has a multilingual (English, French, Spanish, and Thai) and multi-talented crew. For instance, Captain Bernard Calot, Chef Philippe Le Scelleur, Mate David McCoy, Chief Stewardess/Masseuse Sarah Herrera, Stewardess/Masseuse Jiwan Kongtup, and Deckhand Patricio Ramirez.
ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL
Oops – we almost forgot to mention the St. Lucia Jazz Festival!!!
CARIBBEAN CULTURAL EVENT
Secondly, the Jazz Festival is considered the Caribbean’s premier cultural event. The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival attracts thousands to St Lucia. Cultural enthusiasts, festival lovers, and music aficionados are wooed by over 50 world-acclaimed entertainers and artisans. The Festival occurs over 13 days. It runs from April 30 to May 12, 2013.
CHARTER RATE
Finally, the weekly charter rate for M/Y OLGA is $59,000 plus running expenses (for example, food, fuel, dockage, bar, etc.)
Recently, Anne, a friendly rival yacht charter broker, was in the islands inspecting yachts and meeting with crews. While there, she had a chance to sample what she described as “mouth watering” salmon cakes, prepared by chef Bruna Tatarow onboard Horizon motor yacht Lady Margaret, a 64 foot Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel.
LEMON WEDGES
Anne mentioned Bruna provided lime rather than the standard lemon wedges, and that got me thinkin’…
WHY LEMON?
WHY is lemon almost always served with fish?
I ran the question by the gang in our Puerto Rico yacht charter office (not sure why, but I figured our friends who live in the islands consume more fish than our meat-lovin’ team in the states).
SAN JUAN ANSWER
The Puerto Rican team seemed to have an answer right away. Maria, our office manager in San Juan, emailed this explanation:
“Originally, the lemon was served, not because it gave flavor to the fish, but because it was believed that the acidic juice of the lemon would dissolve any bones that might be swallowed.”
Why is Lemon Used in Fish Dishes?
Wow…I had no idea…
Since I no longer feel as compelled to serve lemon with fish dishes, I’ll share with you Chef Bruna’s brunch-time recipe for spicy salmon cakes topped with a mango tartar sauce. Lime is her choice for tartness…
[Note: Thank you, Chef Bruna for the wonderful recipe and thank you,Captain Jan Robinson for the photo of the salmon cakes, from your Ship to Shore Cookbook.]
ENJOY!
Spicy Salmon Cakes with Mango Tartar
INGREDIENTS
Tartar Sauce:
· 1 cup peeled, diced ripe mango (1 large)
· 1/2 cup mayonnaise
· 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped
· Pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper
Salmon Cakes:
· Vegetable oil, for frying
· 1 lb cooked salmon, flaked
· 1 cup panko
· 2 eggs, lightly beaten
· 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
· 3 tablespoons chopped shallots
· 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· Freshly ground black pepper
· 1/3 cup cornmeal
DIRECTIONS
To make tartar sauce, whisk together the mango, mayonnaise, capers, and salt and pepper, to taste, in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Heat 1/4-inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Put the salmon in a medium bowl and break it up with a fork, watch for bones. Add the panko, eggs, parsley, shallots, cayenne and salt. Season with black pepper, to taste, and mix well. Form the mixture into 12 cakes and coat them with the cornmeal. Carefully put the cakes in the oil, 5 or 6 at a time, and cook until golden brown; about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel lined plate to drain. Arrange them on a serving platter and serve immediately with tartar sauce.
Today we shine the spotlight on the Abeking & Rasmussen yacht EXCELLENCE V. She is the 5th vessel in an eponymous line of highly successful superyachts.
THE SUPERYACHT EXPERIENCE™
German-built, this 60 meter lady combines elegant design with a sense of space. She stretches far beyond her physical dimensions. Indeed, the interior volumes of motoryacht EXCELLENCE Vare far more common on Mediterranean yacht charter vessels in the 70 to 75 meter range. She is a beautiful yacht who delivers The Superyacht Experience™ by 1-800 Yacht Charters to discerning clients.
HER DESIGN
The owner turns to London based Reymond Langton Design to develop a special design approach. For instance, where space is optimally utilized to meet charter guests’ needs. This approach is most evident within the guest staterooms. The master is located on the upper deck. In addition, more staterooms are situated on the main fore deck. These sleeping quarters offer interesting concepts. For example, large windows, spaciousness, and easy accessibility.
THE YACHT EXTERIOR
The exterior of the yacht embodies the sense of space provided in the interior. Her sleek lines, navy blue hull, and white superstructure portray a classic style with a contemporary feel.
Architecturally, major design amenities include:
Beach club to starboard
Port-side gym and massage room
Onboard Cinema
Aft swimming and dive platform
FLEXIBILITY AND COMFORT
A further example of the yacht’s reverence to flexibility and comfort is the tender launching area, which can be directly accessed from the double suite aft of the master stateroom [perfect for discreet getaways, without disturbing other onboard guests].
INTERIOR STYLE
Overall, her interior style is sophisticated and grand. A central elevator connects all five decks, while a spiral staircase provides access to each interior level. Glossy dark wooden wall panels frame the staircase, and natural stone floors complete the elegant feel.
Throughout the saloon and living spaces, soft upholstery and cushions, and curvy furniture are blended together in colors of grays, light beige and hints of red.
HER WARMTH
The same colors, warmth, and intimate feel of the interior flow outward to the exterior lounge areas. Here L-shaped couches actually face outward, allowing guests to enjoy the sweeping panorama from the uncluttered deck areas.
FAVORITE DECK
A favorite deck area is the privacy deck directly outside the master stateroom. Here, the guests can enjoy impressive views from either the large cockpit or the private Jacuzzi tub. Adjacent lounge pads turn this oasis into a private sun deck for the lead charter guests.
For social gatherings, the yacht offers a wonderfully-appointed sun deck featuring a Jacuzzi tub, wet bar, sun pads, and intimate cockpit area.
WATERSPORTS TOYS
For active charterers, the yacht holds 4 sets of SCUBA gear (for rendezvous diving), waverunners, SUPs (Stand Up Paddleboards), kayaks, SeaBob, a water trampoline, and many other water sports toys.
Possibilities are endless onboard Abeking & Rasmussen superyacht, EXCELLENCE V. Charterers will simply be amazed by the space, elegant design, and the variety of options for fun and relaxation.
LUXURY TAX ABOLISHED The recent Mediterranean Yacht Charter show in Genoa, Italy, learned that the 3 year old Sardinia Luxury Tax is no more. ABOUT THE TAX The repeal of the Sardinia Luxury Tax is especially good news to charter enthusiasts. Anyone considering a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean is fortunate. The law […] read more
The world of luxury yacht charter has finally arrived in the Seychelles. Motor yacht SEA STREAM, a 76 foot Ferretti with room for 8 guests, is now available for Caribbean yacht charter enthusiasts looking for a new destination. Ferretti yacht SEA STREAM is now available as the only high quality, luxury crewed motor yacht available […] read more
PLAN AND PACK Yikes! What to pack? In just over three weeks, you leave on a week-long Bahama yacht charter vacation. You choose a sleek, performance, basic sailing yacht with crew. Your menu provided to your yacht through your charter broker, and your crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Seriously, what do you pack? […] read more
Recent Comments