The owner of the 130′ Westport motor yacht MARY ALICE II has announced a special rate. This is for Bahama yacht charters this winter!
The special is offered for now through April 30. Book a regular 7-night charter for $100,000 per week ($120,000 per week for 2011 year-end holidays). Motor yacht MARY ALICE II welcomes you! Receive an additional 3 nights for free!
ADDITIONAL SAVINGS
As if that weren’t generous enough! There is an addition to the special rate of 10 nights for price of 7. Her owner will waive all delivery fees to move the yacht from South Florida to the Bahamas. This is a savings of approximately $4000.
ALSO! The yacht has hard-to-come-by dockage at the famous Atlantis resort and marina in Nassau (Paradise Island), for the year-end holidays!!
Atlantis, Bahamas – Superyacht Checkmate
INTERIOR FEATURES AND ACCOMMODATIONS
The immaculately-kept 130′ Westport yacht MARY ALICE II boasts brand new interior soft goods and AV equipment. She accommodates 10/12 guests in 5 staterooms and will allow 2 more children to sleep on air mattresses in sky lounge.
CABINS
Her ondeck Master suite has opening windows for fresh air, and blackout blinds for total privacy. Four guest cabins are located belowdeck and feature King beds, two of which can convert to twins.
SKYLOUNGE AND WATERTOYS
Other amenities include a skylounge with satellite TV and an 8-person hydrotherapy hot tub. Active guest will enjoy two waverunners, kayaks, underwater Seabobs, and a high performance 34′ Regulator-brand towed tender.
CREW
Captain Kelly Esser and his crew of 5 look forward to treating their guests to the time of their lives in the Bahamas or Florida!
Looking for a change of scenery? We get it. “Pandemic fatigue” is starting to set in for most of us. Indeed, the idea of escaping the “Covid blues” sounds better and better every day. Covid travel restrictions are important to know.
COVID-19 GUIDELINES BELOW
For many affluent travelers, a holiday luxury yacht charter is very appealing. After all, if you have to practice social-distancing, why not set up camp on a private yacht?
MUCH OF CARIBBEAN HAS TOUGH RESTRICTIONS
Unfortunately, much of the Caribbean is still imposing harsh restrictions on tourism. For example, mandatory tourist quarantines are in place in the British Virgin Islands. It is the most popular yacht charter destination in the world. We anticipate these restrictions will still be in effect for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
BAHAMAS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.
Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.
GET TESTED BEFORE ARRIVAL
These rules apply to every guest over 10 years old. Each passenger on your yacht must get an RT PCR nasal swab Covid-19 test 5 days or less before arrival. Test results from any other type of COVID-19 test are unacceptable. Passengers under the age of 10 do not need to be tested. All tests must be negative for entering the Bahamas.
SUBMIT A HEALTH VISA
Each guest must complete a travel health visa, along with submitting a negative Covid-19 test,. The application is available online. First, go to www.travel.gov.bs. Second, select “International,” and create an account. Fill out your visa information, upload your negative test results, and submit your application. Allow up to 72 hours to receive an approval confirmation. IMPORTANT TO NOTE, you need to print the approval document and bring it with you. You must present the document to Bahamian officials when entering the country.
You must opt-in for health insurance when you complete your health visa application. Specifically, you will be covered for any Covid-19 health issues during your time in the Bahamas. For example, the cost of a mandatory rapid antigen test (required on day 5 of your visit) will be covered. You’ll also be covered if you require quarantine (up to $7000) or medical evacuation (up to $50,000). Charter guests staying 4 days or less pay $40 for coverage. Visitors staying more than four days pay $60.
TAKE A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST ON DAY 5
You are required to take this test if you stay in the Bahamas for 5 or more days. You must quarantine aboard your charter yacht while you await the results of the test. Don’t worry, results are typically texted or emailed within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT NOTE, a rapid antigen test is not required if you have no plans to go ashore during your charter.
SUBMIT A DAILY ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY
Charter guests are required to answer an online health questionnaire each day. This survey is used to identify potential Covid-19 symptoms. Any guests who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms during their charter will be required to take a rapid antigen test. Any positive results will require a Covid-19 RT-PCR swab test.
FOLLOW ONSHORE SAFETY PROTOCOLS
There are rules and requirements to follow when onshore. For example, wearing a face mask is mandatory in public places, except on the beaches. Additionally, social distancing is expected wherever possible in public areas. Finally, be aware that some of the individual islands have evening curfews.
IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS, RIGHT?
It’s nice to know we can escape to the Bahamas during the holidays. Specifically, since so many restrictions are still in place in our hometowns. As they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.” Test it out! Everyone can enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter vacation IF we follow the guidelines listed above.
This has been an unsettling year for everyone. You owe it to yourself, friends, and loved ones to appreciate and enjoy the holidays. Relax and reflect upon all that we have, and do. Take time to smell the roses and to express gratitude. Show yourself some love and plan a well-earned vacation. Push away the stress,k and leave the fatigue behind. Welcome mindfulness and wellness. Make memories and celebrate another year of togetherness. Please stay safe, follow the rules, and take Covid-19 prevention seriously. Regardless, please have a WONDERFUL holiday. Love, Jana
Thinking of sheltering in place? First, in a remote destination? Second, in private? Third, on a luxury yacht charter vessel? Great thought, but STOP. Before you get your hopes up, we have a report. Getting on a yacht may be a BIG problem right now. This is a result of more islands closing their borders to yachts. It is particularly difficult for all.
BEFORE THE CORONAVIRUS
Traditionally, spring is the most popular season for Caribbean yacht charters. We have fully-crewed superyachts in position. They are ready to accept guests. For example, from the Bahamas to Bonaire.
Unfortunately, the unexpected outbreak of a global viral pandemic has affected the industry. It brings the idea of a charter in the Caribbean to a screeching halt.
ADVISORIES AND CURFEWS
This started as travel advisories and then curfews. It morphed into full closures of most island nations in the Caribbean. This affects both air and sea access.
GUESTS OR NOT
In some cases, charter guests already onboard may stay onboard. However, as of March 30, most charter vessels are restricted. Therefore, they cannot accept new guests in almost every inhabited island in the Caribbean. For instance, the British Virgin Islands and St. Marten.
CLOSED (no re-opening dates announced)
TRINIDAD … not only
ST LUCIA
ARUBA … but also
BONAIRE
CURAÇAO
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS (BVI)
MARIE-GALANTE and THE SAINTS
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (DR)
DOMINICA … in addition,
GRENADA
ST. MAARTEN (ST. MARTIN)
MARTINIQUE
GUADELOUPE
ANTIGUA and BARBUDA … lastly,
ST KITTS & NEVIS
RESTRICTIONS
Restrictions exist. For instance,
MONTSERRAT. Mandatory 14 day quarantine
USVI (U.S. Virgin Islands). Closed to all visitors for 30 days. Charter vessels, hotels, guest houses, etc. are restricted. They may not accept new guests. Guests who have already checked in are advised to return home. They cam remain, if they choose, however. Airport and Seaports are open. All non-essential businesses are closed. Residents are asked to stay at home. All bars across the Territory are closed. In-house dining is not allowed at restaurants. Take-out services are permissible. Additionally,
ANGUILLA. Both sea and air ports are closed to all passengers. This applies for an initial 14-day period, from 20 March.
BAHAMAS. Incoming passenger flights are banned. Significantly, seaports remain open for cargo and supply vessels only. Moreover, All inter-island sailing and cruising is prohibited.
BARBADOS. Airports and marinas are open. Whether by yacht or plane, all visitors arriving from the UK, Europe, and the United States will be placed in quarantine for 14 days. Anyone arriving with a travel history from China, Iran, and South Korea are also subject to a 14-day quarantine. Further,
DOMINICA. Airports and seaports closed. There is an exception for planes and ships bringing vitally-needed cargo and medical relief supplies.
ST. VINCENT and the GRENADINES. Mandatory 14 day quarantine for any passengers arriving from China and other countries. For instance, the European Union, Iran, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
STAY INFORMED / DISCLAIMER
In conclusion, this is not a complete list of all restrictions in the Caribbean. Border and marina/port closures change rapidly. Moreover, air traffic suspensions change, too. In the meantime, 1-800 Yacht Charters will keep this information updated as much as possible. We encourage our blog readers to check official country websites and local news sources for the latest travel advisories and closures/restrictions. For specific luxury yacht charter questions, please email us at info@1800yachtcharters.com
Destinations of yacht charters is a popular and often requested topic.
Our professionals at 1-800 Yacht Charters reviewed 2010’s “hot spots” and checked with various mega yacht owners with yachts in transit to enticing locations around the globe.
The team compiled a list of the top 4 desirable yacht charter destinations for 2011 and the ultimate yachts to rent for the experience. Yesterday, we shared 2 of the 4 top destinations for 2011 with our readers:
2. Australia and New Zealand, onboard super yacht GALAXY.
DESTINATION – BAHAMAS
Today, we present the other two hot spots for the new year!
3. It’s Better in the Bahamas, on BIG ZIP.
Don’t have time to travel half around the world for a luxury mega yacht charter? No worries! The Bahamas offers pristine water and uncrowded beaches, and they are located just an hour away from South Florida.
ABOUT BIG ZIP
There are over 700 islands in the Bahamas. Trinity yacht BIG ZIP is the ideal platform for a week of discovery and exploration there. The vessel features 5 staterooms for a perfect superyacht experience in exclusive surroundings. The yacht’s interior was designed by Evan Marshall. The yacht’s watertoys include a 32 foot Intrepid towed tender, a 21 foot Novurania RIB tender, a 3-person waverunner, and snorkel gear and towable toys. Pricing begins at $190,000 per week.
The 789-mile coast of Croatia is indented with countless coves and inlets, creating one of the finest places to sail on earth. The most famous cruising grounds are in the Dalmatian Islands, which stretch from Dubrovnik northwest to Zadar. Sail boat charters can unveil the charming anchorages, ancient villages, and translucent waters of the islands.
DESTINATION – CROATIA
The sail yacht KOKOMO will spend the summer cruising the coast of Croatia. This sailboat is sleek and elegant, with superlative sailing characteristics without compromise for comfort. Flexible accommodation arrangements allow for up to 12 guests in five staterooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. Her prices begin at € 230,000 per week.
I wanted to thank you and your crew for the wonderful charter we had on board motor yacht Serenity. The yacht is of course absolutely beautiful, the food was spectacular but the service is what impressed us most.
We were so very thrilled with the level of attention your crew gave to us and our guests. To travel with children from the ages of 10 to 21 and find activities that everyone enjoys is certainly difficult, but you and your crew managed it effortlessly. The kids are still raving about the trip and are anxious to do it again.
Please thank your crew for making this one of our most memorable vacations. You will be our first call when we’re ready to book our next charter.
Sincerely,
SS”
YACHT DETAILS
Editor’s note: Launched in 2008, Lazzara motor yacht SERENITY offers accommodations for 10 guests in 5 cabins with ensuite bathrooms. Onboard amenities include a 27 foot Intrepid tender, two waverunners, two SeaBob underwater scooters, and paddleboards, fishing and snorkel gear, and a water trampoline.
CHARTER RATE
Available for Florida yacht charters as well as vacations in the Bahamas, her published rate is $53,000 per week, plus expenses.
SPECIAL PRICING
A FALL SPECIAL is available for the Thanksgiving holiday: Book a 7-day vacation starting Nov 28 or 29, and get 1 extra day free (a savings of over 15%) … or book a 3-day trip beginning Nov 28 or 29 and pay $22,000 (save $7,000). PLUS all delivery fees waived!
BAHAMAS YACHTS FOR CHARTER
Other yachts available in the Bahamas include the 85′ motor yacht SEAS THE MOMENTpriced at $37,500 per week plus expenses, the 100′ motor yacht PICNIC($39,500 per week, plus expenses), and the 80′ Lazzara motor yacht LA DOLCE VITA($27,500 per week, plus expenses).
There are many production 100-foot motoryachts in the Bahamas yacht charters market, but owners Dr. and Mrs. Emmons of luxury charter yacht SEAFARER didn’t want a cookie-cutter boat, particularly one costing $6 million. They wanted something that they could personalize to reflect their taste, their love of literature and the arts.
As a result, you will see throughout the boat bookcases built specifically for the Emmons, and nooks created especially to fit their fine collection of marine artwork.
Luxury charter yacht SEAFARER motor yacht is a 30-meter megayacht available for a Bahamas yacht charter vacation. Yacht SEAFARER has accommodations for eight (8) guests in four (4) cabins. This new mega yacht was built by superyacht builder Hargrave and was launched in 2008.
Bahama yacht charters are all about outdoor adventure in the sun, so a large inventory of waytertoys are important. This mega yacht charter vessel carries a 15′ widebody Nautica tender with 90hp Yamaha engine, two 2-person kayaks, snorkel gear, towable toys and tubes such as Boogie Boards, plus beach toys such as volley ball, Frisbees, and 4 bicycles.
You, your family, and friends can enjoy a week-long odyssey in the Bahamas onboard this yacht for only $42,500 for 8 guests. Running expenses (items such as food, fuel, and dockage) are extra. For more information, contact Jana Sheeder, CEO of 1-800-YACHTCHARTERS at jsheeder@1800yachtcharters.com
1-800-YACHTCHARTERS – Delivering The Superyacht Experience™ Since 1976
Profile of CHECKMATE superyacht at Atlantis, Bahamas
NEW BENETTI YACHT ENTERS CHARTER
A brand new Benetti yacht charter vessel entered the market. She checkmates the competition.
VISION
The stunning 145’ Benetti Vision motoryacht arrived to her proud owner. This happens in time to capture the late summer season in the Med. Accommodations available for 10 to 12 guests in 5 staterooms.
WIDE ANGLE LENS
Similarly, like a wide angle camera lens, the on-deck master suite offers 180 degree panoramic views. They are bathed in natural light. Likewise, all guest accommodations feature massive windows. Guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery while underway or at anchor.
INTERIOR DESIGN
The yacht’s elegant interior was designed by Italy’s Francois Zuretti and is best described as “contemporary chic.” The décor blends Cherry and Burr-Madrona woods with beautiful Italian marble throughout.
“Our yacht charter fleet heartily welcomes superyacht CHECKMATE as a beautiful addition for discriminating clientele. “
WATERTOY STORAGE
No watertoys store on the massive Sun Deck. This makes it a great area for sun worshippers. The nearby bridge deck Skylounge boasts one of the most impressive features – aft doors that recess to create an incredible 270 degree al fresco dining experience!
RATE
The inaugural rental rate for the summer 2012 season is $145,000. This is a good value. It is a rarity in the Med. Most Med yachts price in Euros..
The owner of motor yacht ILLUSION V announces her repositioning. ILLUSION V is a 58 meter Benetti who charters the Caribbean and the Bahamas for winter 2016, and spring 2017.
WHO IS ILLUSION V?
She is elegant, contemporary and offers unparalleled luxury. Benetti ILLUSION V yacht is a masterpiece from celebrated design duo Green and Mingarelli. She has an abundance of dining, entertainment and relaxation areas. In addition, a full bar and beach area on her lower deck enhance the yacht. Other areas abound. Specifically, a toy garage bursting with the latest toys exists. Her toys include a Jetovator, flyboard and Inflatable slide.
Built in 2014, she features accommodations for up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms.
Key FEATURES and AMENITIES:
The perfect sundeck layout with large Jacuzzi, sunpads, shaded dining, full bar and BBQ
Several dining options indoors and al fresco
6 full bars on 4 decks
Luxurious beach club set-up
Cinema and media room on the bridge deck (converts into 7th stateroom)
Impressive inventory of watersports equipment and recreational gear
In 2010, we took a look at efforts to control theinvasion of lionfish in the Florida Keys. Recent reports paint a disturbing picture – efforts to control the population have not been successful.
LIONFISH INVASION HURTING NATIVE POPULATION
According to Oregon State scientist Stephanie Green, “There is strong evidence that the lionfish is having negative effects on the native population. We don’t see any signal that anything is controlling lionfish population.”
THE PROBLEM
The problem is simple – lionfish, native to the western Pacific Ocean, have no natural predators in the
Atlantic Ocean. They live up to 15 years, and one female can produce as many as 2 million eggs in one year.
COMPANY PRESIDENT, JANA SHEEDER, COMMENTS
“Many of our Florida yacht charter clients, as well as many bareboat charterers, are avid divers,”reportsJana Sheeder, President and Owner of 1-800 Yacht Charters.“We are hearing more and more tales of multiple lionfish on the reefs in the Florida Keys, as well as the in the cruising grounds in the nearby Bahamas.”
WHAT IS OUR OPTION?
So far, the only viable option to attempt to control the invasion remains the same – eat them! The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association continues to recommend aggressive efforts to harvest and consume lionfish.
OUR SUGGESTION
So, next time you are at your favorite seafood restaurant, instead of ordering an overfished item like tuna, see if lionfish is on the menu! Enjoy a delicious meal AND make a difference!
Motoryacht TAIL LIGHTS spends some time in the shipyard in Georgia. After that, the popular and highly successful charter yacht heads to the Bahamas in charter ready and bristol condition. Once complete, the 116 foot Azimut looks amazing and had lots of new toys and goods onboard to start her first charter in Nassau on November 21st.
YACHT CHARTER REVIEW
A recent charter guest took the time to share her thoughts about her family’s superyacht experience onboard Azimut yacht TAIL LIGHTS. What lends credence to her comments is the fact she has chartered three times prior. In her own words,
“We just got off the boat this morning. This was my fourth trip on a (luxury yacht) charter vessel and found it to be at least equal to but in many ways better than the previous trips I had taken. Captain Steve Kemp was awesome. He was extremely organized and looked after every detail of the trip. When we needed to adjust he was quick to respond and very accommodating. The crew was fantastic and also very accommodating. The girls were all Johnny-on-the-spot with food, drinks, and any other need we had. The staterooms were always looked after and kept pristine during our trip. Very pleasant personalities and fun to talk to. Jeff made sure the boat and tender were operating perfectly and was also very accommodating when we wanted to tour the engine room. The boat itself was appointed very nicely and it was obvious that she had been upgraded recently. It looked brand new. I would highly recommend (yacht) Tail Lights and its crew, particularly Steve the captain. I certainly would look into chartering her again.”
Originally a 2011, her $1.5 million refit in 2016 changed so much. Improvements made include, for instance, a full paint job. Two tone dark and light gray in Stoppani Metallic acrylic paint is fabulous. Interior wood and floor refinishing. and new exterior and interior soft goods. For example, upholstery, cushions, decorative throw pillows, bed covers, linens, towels, etc. Continuing with the updates in addition are all new serviceware like china, crystal, silver ware, and table settings. Additionally, new Murray teak deck chairs on Fly bridge and Aft Deck, and new Westminster sun lounge beds on Fly bridge.
Also included in the refit:
All varnished tables refinished
Teak cap railing refinished
Teak decks all sanded and sealed
New ice makers
Washer/dryer and refrigerator/freezer in the garage area
Atlas power conversion system
32′ Scout towed tender painted same color to match the yacht
ACCOMMODATIONS
The yacht accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 staterooms. She has 8 beds, consisting of 2 doubles, 2 twins, and 1 convertible configured as 2 Pullmen, 1 King, 2 Queens, 1 Double, and 4 Singles.
WATERTOYS
Watertoys include:
32′ Scout towed tender w/ twin 350 Yamaha engines. Fully rigged and walk-in bathroom in console.
2-person Yamaha jet ski 1800cc
New water skis
2 Bote Inflatable Paddle boards
2 person ski tube
Knee board
Wake board
High quality fishing gear (bottom and trolling), plus 1 electric reel for deep dropping 1200 feet
2 Spear fishing poles
6 sets of snorkel gear (Getting 6 more sets)
Large 8×10 beach sun tent with six beach chairs (Getting 6 more)
Beach umbrella and folding table for beach picnics
2 Floating lounge mats and noodles
Largo floating island
2 NEW Yamaha Sea Scooters
Rates for TAIL LIGHTS are from $75,000 per week, plus all running expenses and any applicable taxes.
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
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