“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 recent Paris boat show gave bareboat yacht charter lovers pause. Presenting the new Lagoon catamaran 39. It is an even more important milestone. In specific, the 30th birthday of Lagoon Catamarans.
The builder celebrated their shipbuilding birthday at the French show. Show dates spanned December 7 to 15.
When Did Lagoon Cats First Appear?
The first Lagoon #catamaran model was delivered in 1987. As a result, more than 3,000 Lagoon catamarans exist around the world.
Lagoon Catamaran for Caribbean Yacht Charter Vacation
DESIGN INNOVATIONS
For three decades, the company has been a leader in design innovation. For example,
1997
Lagoon invents vertical windows for the Lagoon 410 catamaran, adding welcoming light and a feeling of more volume.
2004
No one had ever seen or heard of a flybridge on a sailing catamaran. That is, until Lagoon installed one. Now, a decade later, all Lagoons 45’ and larger are equipped with a flybridge.
2006
The first hybrid-powered cruising catamaran is introduced. Specifically, the Lagoon 420.
2009
Welcome the Lagoon 620. It is the benchmark for crewed catamaran charters. Ask any charter broker their preferred vessels for a Virgin Islands yacht charter vacation. They probably point to Lagoon 620 sail catamaran AVALON. Also, luxury sailing catamaran CROCODILE DADDY.
2013
The new Lagoon 39 and 52 models, featuring innovation by VPLP naval architects, have the masts pushed back aft for comfort, performance, and easy handling.
HAPPIEST OF BIRTHDAYS
Happy 30th birthday, Lagoon! Thank you for all that you’ve done for the catamaran charter industry — here’s to another 30 years.
Taking a vacation by automobile doesn’t require any particular vocabulary skills. However, when you go on a private yacht charter, it is sometimes nice to know some of the terminology used when onboard.
SAMPLE NAUTICAL TERMS
BOW – The forward part of a boat
STERN – The back of the boat
BEAM – The greatest width of the boat
BUOY – An anchored float used for marking a position on the water or a hazard or a shoal and for mooring
ADDITIONAL TERMS
CABIN (or “stateroom”) – A compartment (bedroom) for passengers or crew
CATAMARAN – A twin-hulled boat, sometimes referred to as a multihull, with hulls side-by-side. Can be sail or power, but is usually sail
CHART – A map for use by navigators
HELM (or “Navigation Station”) – The area from where the Captain steers the boat
CLEAT – A fitting to which lines are tied. They are usually in somewhat of a “figure 8 shape.” Cleats are located on the dock and on the boat. (They are often tripped over, if you don’t watch your step!)
COCKPIT – An opening in the deck from which the boat is handled. (Visualize a large sailboat – the “steering wheel” of the boat is located in the cockpit)
DINGHY (also known as a “tender”) – A small open boat
TERMS CONTINUE
“T/T BOATNAME” – Means “Tender To…[boatname].” NOTE: Most yachts only have 1 tender. Those with more than 1 tender (aka, dinghy) often have “TTT’s….or tenders for/to their tenders”
FENDER (also known as a “bumper”) – A cushion, placed between boats, or between a boat and a pier, to prevent damage
GALLEY – The kitchen of a boat
SAILBOAT – A boat powered by wind through sails (with ancillary engine)
POWERBOAT – A boat powered by engine and fuel
YOU ASKED FOR ADDITIONAL WORDS
STINKPOTTER – A powerboat enthusiast
HEAD – A marine toilet/bathroom
DAY HEAD – The bathroom that is used by all guests, usually in main area of the boat and not located within a stateroom
INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY – Also known as “The ICW.” Bays, rivers, and canals along the coasts (such as the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts), connected so that vessels may travel without going into the sea. Evening charters in Florida often cruise along the ICW to see the holiday lights of the condos lining the waterway, for example
FINALLY
KNOT (relating to speed) – A measure of speed equal to one nautical mile (6076 feet) per hour
LOG – A record of courses or operation, kept by the captain/crew. (Charter guests often fill out an entry in a “guestbook” or “logbook” after a charter, as well, to describe their trip)
PLANING (“on a plane”) – As a boat evens out above the water when it is moving/underway, as opposed to still being partially underneath the water, as in before it starts moving
PORT – The left side of a boat looking forward. (Also refers to a docking location)
STARBOARD – The right side of a boat, looking forward
SCREW – A boat’s propeller. (A “twin screw” is a boat with 2 propellers.)
IN CONCLUSION
UNDERWAY – Vessel in motion (also known as “running”)
WAKE – Moving waves, track, or path that a boat leaves behind it, when moving across the water
With the demand for luxury sailing charter catamarans on the rise, the team at Lagoon recently introduced the all-new 2012 Lagoon 620 catamaran at the Cannes Boat Show. The Lagoon 620 is an innovative solution to the needs of today’s discerning Caribbean yacht charter client. Professional design by the architects Van Peteghem and Lauriot Prévost (VPLP). The yacht seamlessly blends strength, comfort, and performance in a charter-friendly cabin layout.
LAGOON 620
The 2012 version of the Lagoon 620, features luxurious and comfortable interiors by Nauta. Dining room settee redesign is lovely. In addition, the ceiling enables more indirect lighting. The master cabin starboard side modifications are tremendous. The washroom is now aft on either side of the cockpit access stairs. This modification creates more storage space in the bedroom for the charterer’s luggage. The forward starboard cabin is a true V.I.P. suite. Additional volume created by the repositioning of the master cabin’s washroom.
MULTIPLE VERSIONS
The Lagoon 620 catamaran has 4, 5 and 6 cabin versions. All versions featuring Nauta interior layout packages. In addition, they incorporate multiple items. For instance, wood finish, upholstery, and inner liners.
Lagoon Sail Catamaran
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THEM?
They have exceptional living space, both above and below deck. This defines Lagoon catamarans as the sophisticated choice for multi hull yacht vacations.
CREWED OR BAREBOAT?
Catamaran multihull sailboats are also available for bareboat vacations (yachts without crew). 1-800 Yacht Charters offers bareboat charter, also.
SIMILAR CATAMARANS FOR RENT
Several newer-model Lagoon catamarans are already in service and available for hire, including the Lagoon 560 sail catamaran BACCHUSand the Lagoon 450 sail catamaran OKEANOS.
An award-winning chef and his catamaran make announcement. They present a special, reduced rate for early spring in the Caribbean.
WORLD’S END
The spectacular luxury sailboat catamaran WORLD’S END has slashed her price. Her rate plunged from from $36500 per week to $24000 per week, plus all expenses. The special applies to charters commencing in either February or March, 2012.
FOUNTAINE PAJOR GALATHEA 65
At 20 meters, the Fountaine Pajot Galathea 65 model catamaran WORLD’S END is the largest cruising vessel ever built by this manufacturer. She marks a new flagship for sail boat charters in the Caribbean.
AWARD-WINNING CHEF
Readers may recall our December 17 profile of chef Renee Kappetein as he bested over a dozen talented luxury yacht charter chefs in the 50th annual Antigua Charter Yacht Show culinary competition. Renee, the live-aboard chef on the Fountaine Pajot Galathea 65 catamaran took first prize in the division for yachts under 100 feet.
ARCHITECTS
An outstanding creation from architects Berret Racoupeau and Coste Design, the Fountaine Pajot catamaran sail boat WORLD’S END has been carefully designed with all of the safety, performance, and comfort elements to satisfy the most discerning guests. Safe and exhilarating sailing performance is generated from its mastered displacement, powerful sail plan and expanded waterline length.
INTERIOR
The generous cockpit of the Galathea 65 is fully protected from the elements and features a deck lounge and sun-bridge for relaxing. The extraordinarily spacious interior features a panoramic saloon, dining room and gourmet galley.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The Master Cabin sets new standards in decadence and style with a study area, lounge and large bathroom with dual vanity sinks. Each guest cabin features an ensuite bathroom, king size beds, large portholes and a style that rivals the world’s top luxury hotels.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
The yacht has numerous special features. For instance, an office, library, dressing rooms, and laundry.
One of the largest and fastest, all-carbon cats in the world
Eco-friendly
Accommodates 8 guests in 4 cabins
Available for South of France or Monaco yacht charter
€50,000/wk (June/Sept) and €60,000/wk (July/Aug)
THE STORY
We secure a private luxury yacht charter reservation on the 37m motor yacht ELENA NUEVE this week. We receive the charter contract, and management sends us an email touting a big, beautiful new catamaran in his fleet . She is sailing yacht ALLURES.
ALLURES is getting ready for a successful charter season in the West Med. Based in the South of France, she is still available in April, May, June and September 2017.
Luxurious charter yacht with impressive deck space and comfort, ALLURES is one of the largest and fastest, all carbon-sail catamaran in the world. She provides a high level of comfort and safety with access to shallow waters.
Bookings 2017:
-24 June to 1 July, Naples/Catania,
-9 to 16 July, Naples/Palermo,
-20 July to 14 August, Bonifacio/Bonifacio,
-16 to 30 August, Bonifacio/Saint-Tropez.
I look forward to receiving your enquiries.
Nicolas”
WHAT WE LIKE
Nicolas knows many of our clients prefer motoryachts for the luxury yacht charter vacations. We are excited to promote high-quality sailing yachts whenever the chance arises. Sail yacht ALLURES is at the top end of sailing yachts in the charter market. Built by Composite Works in France, this is a performance yacht that really, “gets up and goes” when the wind is blowing. If you’re wondering if that means a bumpy ride – put your worries to bed. Catamarans have two hulls which gives them an enormous beam (width). The wider the yacht the more stable the vessel, especially when at anchor.
Of course, at 100 feet, she is a superyacht. Her overall design reflects this pedigree. Allures’ chic Italian interior is brimming with beautiful wood and leather furnishings. She accommodates eight guests in four impressive staterooms. Furthermore, every stateroom has a direct view to the sea.
ONBOARD FEATURES
Our favorite onboard features are the two convertible staterooms. These double cabins can easily become twins (each with single berths). In addition, this unique flexible layout comfortably accommodate charter parties of families, friends and/or couples.
KEY FEATURE SUMMARY
First, she is a performance sailing catamaran with an experienced and friendly crew. Second, Allures has sleek lines, the latest sailing equipment, and Italian interiors with wood and leather. Third, as a catamaran, she has access to very shallow anchorages. Fourth, she is the ultimate in safety and performance. In addition, she features 2 convertible staterooms. Lastly, multiple water toys keep it fun!
THE RATE
For the summer 2017 cruising season, the yacht is offered at different rates. For instance, €60,000 per week plus running expenses for high (July/August), and €50,000 per week for low (June/September) season
The Adriatic continues to gain in popularity as a summer vacation destination. Moreover, the owner of an eco-friendly 30 meter charter yacht hopes to capture some of that business. To accomplish this, he offers reduced prices. Ultimately, a Croatia yacht charter is the perfect summer vacation.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS SALE
The owner’s representatives contact us today. They give us green light to reduce the boat’s weekly charter rate! Motor yacht QUARANTA, rate change decreases from €119,000 per week to €109,000 per week. An incredible 10,000 EUROS savings. This new price valid for yacht rental in Croatia. The price also includes both low and high season dates. It should be noted that this is an unheard of special that is YEAR-ROUND!
HYBRID YACHT
Quaranta is the largest carbon hybrid composite power catamaran charter yacht in the world. Specifically, and most importantly, she paves the way to sustainable yacht building technology and fuel efficient design.
KEY FEATURES
Flexible layout: Over 20 different possibilities that can be changed on a moment’s notice
Flexible cruising speed: 10 to 18 knots …in addition,
Guest interior and exterior space. Comparable with monohull yachts over 40 meters
Lifting platform. Used by guests for more contact with the water …lastly,
Huge windows: Each cabin has extensive outside light and views.
SUMMER 2019 CRUISING AREA IN CROATIA/MONTENEGRO
CHARTER RATE
Without a doubt, an incredible rate at just €109,000 per week.
WHAT ARE HER CURRENT BOOKINGS?
From 10- 18 August, Split to Zadar, booked yacht charter Croatia Coast, fortunate charter guests enjoy the vessel.
YACHT QUARANTA SPECIFICATIONS SPECS
Clients inquire as to her details. First, with her build by Curvelle, she has an absolutely elegant appearance and structure. Naval architect, Incat Crowther’s undoubtable design with exterior design by Mauro Giamboi and interior design by Alex Isaac, she turns heads and makes a statement. Quaranta’s length is 34.10 meters. Her wide beam of 9 meters and draft of 2.3 meters make her stable and comfortable. She accommodates 12 guests in 6 double cabins. These cabins are additionally convertible. Cruising speed of 16-18 knots makes her quick to reach your destination, importantly, in style. She only consumes 200-250 litres per hour of fuel, without a doubt, an incredible savings for pampered guests. Her class MCA: RINA & MCA gives her unrestricted navigation, especially important to those in Dora the Explorer mode.
ONBOARD AMENITIES
Quaranta features a Jacuzzi for 4 on Sun Deck. It should be noted that she has a misting system for natural air conditioning on the sundeck, as well. This lovely yacht features WiFi throughout, so guests will not be without technology! In addition, her lifting platform can be used as a “beach landing!” It lifts the tender with guests in it from the water to the main deck level.
TENDERS & TOYS
Tender:
• 5.20m Williams Sport Jet 520 Tender (2016)
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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