Category: Charter

Chartering is one of the easiest ways to see parts of the world by boat—without the hassle of taking your own! Whether with family or friends, Southern Boating has the information on charter destinations around the globe.

Tips for Chartering a Yacht

Tips for a Successful Charter

Dos, don’ts, and simple steps to a great boat vacation

There’s no vacation like a boat vacation, so if you want to spread your wings and explore new territory, consider chartering. Powercats have made great inroads into crewed and bareboat charter in the past few years, so there are lots of options these days both in terms of the vessel and the destination. Let’s look to help you pull off a perfect power charter in enticing ports around the world. 

First, we’ll discuss some crewed yachts, but mostly bareboat charters where you take the wheel and the responsibility. Second, you can charter independent monohull boats for fishing or cruising just about anywhere via a peer-to-peer service like Boatsetter, but we’re going to focus on large charter companies that offer multiple models and destinations. Almost exclusively, these organizations work with powercats for their room, stability, shallow draft, and fuel economy. 

Start by asking yourself some questions.

Crewed or Bareboat Chartering?

Decide what kind of vacation you want. If navigating, anchoring, cooking, and managing all systems aboard sounds like work when you’d rather relax, go with a crewed charter. Hire a captain who will relieve you of the burden of command like running the boat, or hire a team that includes a chef and have a posh experience with nothing to do but enjoy. 

Alternately, you can charter a bareboat where, for better or worse, you’ll oversee everything. A bareboat is less expensive than a crewed charter, but you’ll need some basic boating experience and since most powerboats in charter are catamarans, you should know how to drive one so you can dock. 

If you’re not sure which to choose, go with a hybrid approach. The chartering company will provide a captain for a day or two to show you the ropes and then you take it from there. This is easier in small cruising grounds where the captain can disembark and get back to base easily—like the British Virgin Islands. 

Where Do I Want to Go?

Most power options can be found in the Caribbean and some parts of Europe. If this is your first charter, pick a location like the BVIs to start—the navigation is easy, the winds are steady, and there’s a lot to do ashore (restaurants, bars, shopping).

Chartering Itinerary planning is critical. First, you need to choose a place that will work for your crew. Are you looking for the tropical bar scene, history, shopping, seclusion? Does your crowd want to snorkel in the Exumas in the Bahamas or walk the city of Dubrovnik in Croatia? Some areas are more challenging for a skipper than others. The tiny Sea of Abaco can be crisscrossed in two days, but island hopping in the Greek Cyclades means long distances, lots of Med mooring, and possibly choppy seas. Kids, older folks, and the those prone to seasickness will appreciate a charter with small hops, shorter airplane rides to get to the destination, and fewer COVID restrictions.

No matter where you go, don’t overplan the itinerary. On a crewed charter, the captain will most likely already have a route, but you can ask to offer input. If you want to go diving on the wreck of RMS Rhone in the BVIs, for example, make sure to request extra time in the area. 

If you’re creating the float plan yourself, remember that less is more. A packed itinerary isn’t a vacation, it’s a chore, so don’t try to exceed 20-30 miles of distance or 2-3 stops per day. Stay flexible and take each day as it comes which makes room for spontaneity that can be the highlight of the trip.

Most charter companies will post typical itineraries online, and you can add your own flair. Do the loop backward or offset it by a day because every other charter boat will be headed to the same destination on the same day. By backtracking or skipping one place, you may be able to get away from the crowds and have a better experience.

When Do I Want to Go?

Shoulder season offers more boat options at lower prices, smaller crowds in restaurants and anchorages, and an easier pace to enjoy the destination and its people. Shoulder season in the Caribbean is late May to July and early November. August to October are no-go times because it’s hurricane season. Shoulder season in Europe is May and October, and the no-go time is August when everyone is on vacation, harbors are packed, and the locals get understandably surly. 

Ask the charter company about shoulder season specials like 10 days for the price of seven. When you’re not chartering during the peak, you also have a better chance of being upgraded to a bigger or newer boat. 

Want more info on chartering? Check out our Beginners Guide to Chartering a Yacht

What Should I Expect on the First Day?

The first day of a charter can be frustrating with lots of bureaucratic details and waiting. Crewed charters will usually give you a time to board, but you still must check in with the office, complete last-minute paperwork, and meet with the captain to set expectations (both yours and theirs). 

When bareboating, you’ll need to provide passport and arrival/departure information and complete any health visas, insurance waivers, and COVID testing. You’ll also have to provide your boating resume (some companies have an online form to complete), and give the crew a list with the names, ages, and passport information of all guests.

On a bareboat, you must attend the chart and technical briefings although some charter companies offer them pre-recorded with online videos that make things somewhat faster. Even if you try to learn everything via video, make a list of questions to ask in person at the base before untying the dock lines. 

During the chart briefing, you’ll find out about local tourist highlights, how and where to catch (or reserve) moorings, how much they cost, and if you pay with credit or cash. You need to learn about shoal areas and where to get weather information. Listen for special warnings about unmarked hazards, underwater cables that could snag an anchor, temporary closures, and the location of fuel docks. Base personnel also often have the best tips on where to go, what to avoid, and where to eat. 

The technical briefing teaches you about the boat. Even after watching a video, lean on the base staff to show you all the systems and how they work because as captain, you’ll be responsible for managing water, power, and waste aboard for the duration of your vacation. Make sure you understand how to start the generator, monitor batteries, change water tanks via the manifolds, run the dinghy, and operate the electronics. Use your phone to record the information of a live briefing or bring a friend for a second set of ears because the details come fast. 

Examples of where you should focus include: 1) Checking that the chartplotter information is in English and in units you’re comfortable with like feet. 2) Asking about any offset in the depth reading so you know whether the instruments calculate from the waterline or from below the keel. 3) Turning on the VHF and making a call to another boat. 4) Learning the size of fuel and water tanks and knowing where the fills are. 

In the galley, ask personnel to show you how to start the stove, and see if there is a breaker on the panel as well as a solenoid switch. Lift your propane tank to see how full it is, and make sure you have tools to switch propane bottles if needed. Is the barbecue gas or charcoal and do the fridges work?

How Do I Provision?

On a crewed charter, the chef will contact you ahead of time with questions about preferences and allergies. Don’t ignore this request for information. Also, stipulate how many meals you’d like to eat ashore to help them plan.

Provisioning a bareboat charter means you’ll be stocking the boat. Most charter companies will provide a list from which to choose and will deliver the food on the first day or you can shop on your own for better prices and more options. Beware, however, that stocking a week’s worth of groceries isn’t something that one person can manage, and it takes a lot of time. 

If you’re working with the charter company, choose “partial provisioning” that allows you the flexibility to eat off the boat at restaurants. A rule of thumb is to provision 3-4 dinners on the boat if you have people who like to cook. If the group is all about dining out, provision just breakfast and lunch groceries for the week. 

If you’ll be cruising in hot climates, provision about a gallon of bottled water per person per day. Most people don’t drink the boat water because they have no idea where it came from or how long it’s been in the tank. Choose one-gallon bottles that are easier to store and pour into individual reusable water bottles.

Always provision less than you think you’ll need because most boats come back with lots of food. Plan to eat on board on the last night to use up what’s left. 

Don’t Forget the Details

If you’re new to chartering or your own boat is smaller or less complex, don’t opt for a giant powercat that may be intimidating to drive and have loads of advanced systems. If you’ll have kids aboard, plan for their safety and entertainment. Bring games and rent water toys like kayaks, SUPs, and snorkel gear on-site. Take a day before or after the charter to explore beyond the boat.  

Whether you’re seeking treasures on the islands of ancient Greece or tucking into a lobster dinner in the BVIs, a boat vacation opens new worlds that you just can’t experience when you stay in hotels. Best of all, once you get this power chartering thing down, you’ll have lots of options without ever needing to learn to sail. Enjoy! 

Read More:
Beginners Guide to Chartering a Yacht

-by Zuzana Prochazka

A Beginner’s Guide to Chartering a Yacht

The Choice is Yours

There’s more to chartering a boat for a week than just choosing from a pretty picture.

Sailing charters have been around for decades, and they’re a great way to explore well beyond your home waters. But powerboaters have been shy to sign up, primarily because of the whole sailing obstacle. If you’re in this group, here are two secrets: Sailors motor on charter, a lot, and the number of powerboats available to charter has been growing rapidly over the past 10 years, so you now have a choice of exotic destinations to visit nearly year-round without ever raising a sail. 

Let’s first outline the kinds of charter available: fishing, superyacht, small boat crewed, and bareboat. The first three have always been powerboat-based and are crewed, which means you get a captain and a variably sized crew to take care of all the things you don’t want to or don’t know how to do. The last one is bareboat chartering where you’re the skipper with all the decision-making power and freedom…and the headaches that go with it. 

Let’s dive into what each means and what to look for in a boat. 

Benny’s Fishing Charters in Pompano Beach, FL

Fishing Charters

Fishing charters have been run on powerboats since there’s been power. They vary greatly—everything from day trips on center consoles with just a captain to overnight deep-sea outings on 80-foot-plus battlewagons with a full crew. When choosing one that’s right for you, determine what kind of fishing you want to do and for which species. Assess your skill level and decide on the duration of the trip you can afford. Short trips in protected waters will be calmer while offshore excursions will put you onto bigger fish. 

Things to look for in the boat will differ by the factors just mentioned. Useful features include good deck space, a fighting chair, plenty of room for gear and tackle, and a day head close to the action.

For bigger boats, a gyrostabilizer will make the deck steadier and reduce fatigue as well as seasickness. Check for the latest electronics and powerful engines to get you to the fish and back quickly because that’s downtime you’re still paying for.

If you’re bringing non-fishing family members, room to relax out of the way is key as is a galley for refreshments. More than the boat, the captain will make the difference so do your research on proper licensing, extensive experience, and great reviews.

Superyacht Charters

Luxury charters come in many flavors, and they’re always crewed because no owner will let you out on his superyacht with just a VISA card. You can opt for a day trip on a midsize Prestige, Azimut, or Sunseeker yacht, or go big with a Sunreef cat or a 200-foot monohull that will set you back $250,000 a week or more.

Things to look for in the boat include enough accommodations to sleep your entire party, multiple relaxation zones to separate guests and enhance privacy, and maybe even a hot tub, cinema, or beach club for exercise and waterside respite. Review the list of toys the yacht carries including SCUBA tanks, PWCs, slides, and more. Inquire about the yacht’s cruising speed and grounds so you get to see as much as possible. Again, it’s all about the captain and crew, so find out the crew-to-guest ratio and the captain’s reputation for accommodating guests. 

Small Boat Charter

“Small boat” is a misnomer here because we’re talking charters on vessels up to 55 feet. They come in crewed and bareboat versions and, these days, are typically catamarans. On a crewed charter, check out their preference sheets for provisioning. Ask about crew experience, if they allow kids, and a sample itinerary. 

If you go it alone, rest assured you now have lots of choices in both the kind of boat as well as the destinations you’re likely to find with outfits like The Moorings, Dream Yacht Charter, Horizon Yacht Charters, and MarineMax Vacations. 

There are plenty of powercat brands out there, including Aspen, World Cat, Fountaine Pajot, Arrowcat, Leopard, and more. But only a few appear in charter and, therefore, are available to you without writing a big check to buy one. The sweet spot for charters is in the mid-40-foot range but some reach beyond that. Let’s look at how to evaluate the options.

Engines/Fuel

“The appeal of power is that you can get everywhere faster in a shorter amount of time, and you can do multiple stops in a day,” says Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager of The Moorings. Yes, big engines get the job done, but you’re responsible for the fuel you consume, so large engines aren’t always better and powercats differ in fuel efficiency. A 46-footer may offer all the same creature features for a great vacation, but it will burn less than a 54-footer.

Space

In general, powercats offer 1.2 times the accommodations and deck space of a same-length monohull, and that makes them ideal for groups who like to spread out. Most powercats will have a flybridge which includes a full helm station, summer galley, and wraparound seating. This adds more living space and creates a lounge from where to enjoy panoramic views. The foredeck, cockpit, and salon are commodious, too, as are the cabins below, so they’re perfect for new boaters who don’t like to feel claustrophobic. 

Privacy

A powercat creates natural divisions for semi-private zones. If your kids are playing in the cockpit, you can enjoy happy hour on the foredeck sunbed or up on the flybridge. Check to see if your cat is set up well for privacy zones.

Swim Platforms

Many of the larger cats have hydraulic swim platforms where they carry the dinghy rather than on davits, and that’s a bonus. First, once the dinghy is in the water, you can lower the platform to the waterline and create a teak beach club that’s perfect for lounging or entertaining kids. Second, it’s a great way to exit the water. The elderly, mobility impaired, or kids often have a tough time climbing the ladders, so just lower the platform, let them swim onto it, and then raise it. Easy peasy.

Accommodations

Most cats offer three to four cabins with or without ensuite heads. The cabins are larger than on monohulls or converted sailing cats, and they generally offer better light via ports because they’re not buried in the hulls. A private head per couple goes a long way to making guests comfortable. A rule of thumb on cabin count is the last number of the model. If a model is a 484, it’s a 48-footer with four cabins. A 433 is 43 feet and is the owner’s version (three cabins) for maximum privacy in one of the hulls. 

Details

Raul Bermudez, vice president of MarineMax Vacations, adds some other things to look for: Are the air-conditioning systems individually controlled for each cabin? Are the heads electric or manual? Is there a watermaker? How is the galley equipped, and how large is it? The key is comfort.  

Destinations

Powercat charter popularity is on the rise but that doesn’t mean you can get one anywhere. The Moorings offers Leopard powercats in the Abaco Sea/Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Croatia, and Thailand. MarineMax has a fleet of Aquila cats in the BVI and the Abacos. Horizon Yacht Charters has a Nautitech 47 and a crewed Lagoon 64 in the BVI, while Dream Yacht Charters offers Leopard, Fountaine Pajot, Aquila, and Bali in numerous destinations including Key West, the Sea of Cortez in Mexico, Exumas/Bahamas, Martinique, St. Martin, Croatia, Whitsunday Islands in Australia, and Nouméa in New Caledonia.

“Vacation time is precious, and powercats aren’t reliant on the local weather so they’re much faster, up to 10 knots faster in fact,” says Dan Lockyer, vice president of global tourism of Dream Yacht Charter. “Plus, they’re easier to maneuver than sailcats.”

Distances where you want to cover a lot of ground in a week, like the Exumas and the Sea of Cortez, are ideal for power charters. That said, destinations with shorter legs, like the BVI and the Abacos, are great, too, because you can check out four anchorages in a day and not burn a lot of fuel. “With the powerboats, you have the option to go as slow or as fast as you want, and you get to the mooring balls a little faster than the sailboats,” says Bermudez.

Leopard 46 and 53

The Moorings partners with South African builder Robertson and Caine who delivers Leopard cats. Leopard offers the 53 and the new 46 which is expected in charter soon. The 53 has twin sunbeds on the foredeck, a flybridge with a full staircase for easy access, a door from the salon directly to the bows, and that fabulous hydraulic swim platform. It also has a split galley so multiple chefs can work simultaneously.

Lagoon 65, 67, and 78

A charter on a Lagoon powercat will likely be crewed because Lagoon doesn’t currently build models less than 60 feet. However, you’ll find ultimate luxury on any of the models that are most likely in charter right now. Depending on the size, expect to find five or six cabins, a hot tub, superyacht-like amenities, and on some models, a separate galley where the crew prepares meals out of sight, leaving the salon strictly to the guests.

Nautitech 47

The Nautitech 47 with 300-hp Volvo Penta engines has a max speed of 22 knots and an interior helm so you can drive in comfort even if the weather is frightful. A dozen people can relax on twin lounges on the foredeck or take the party to the flybridge. A nice feature is the high bridge clearance that should minimize pounding from underneath when running into head seas. 

Bali Catspace MY and 4.3 MY

Bali Catamarans are built by Catana of France, and they have two models in their motoryacht range. Bali has dabbled in some layout innovations. First, they’ve done away with the idea of a separate salon and cockpit. Instead, the entire aft bulkhead lifts like a tilt-up garage door so the inside becomes the outside and it works well. Bali powercats also have an interior helm and full-size refrigerators that guests love.

Aquila 36, 44, 48, and 54

MarineMax Vacations is exclusive to Aquila powercats. They offer various models between 36 and 54 feet. For two couples, the 36 is a fantastic express-style boat with the helm and dinette outside under the hardtop and a summer galley with a grill aft. It’s powered by twin 350-hp outboards so it can really get up and go. The behemoth 54, on the other hand, has five cabins and five heads for bigger groups and may be offered with crew.

Don’t Be Shy

“The demand for powercats has grown consistently each year for the past decade,” says Pedersen. “That trend looks to continue in the years to come.” 

Bermudez agrees. “Power catamarans are the future of the charter industry,” he says. Indeed, powercats have made progress, from being too weird for most boaters to contemplate to becoming the ideal way to experience some of the world’s greatest charter destinations. Check out available models with a large charter company and then dive in. The water’s great.  

-by Zuzana Prochazka

Cruising Croatia

The unique backdrop provides a bareboat charter unlike any other

There’s more to chartering than palm trees and umbrella drinks, although that’s not bad either. For me, combining history and boating is the ultimate vacation, and there’s no better place to do this than chartering in the Mediterranean. Greece usually comes to mind when you think of strolling through antiquities. But if you haven’t visited Croatia, consider this: delicious cuisine, sensational wine, excellent scenery, fantastic boating, and a depth of history you can’t imagine. This, my friends, is the ultimate charter.

Croatia redefines history altogether. Thirty minutes after deplaning in Split, you may find yourself visiting the old town and Diocletian’s Palace, which is less a palace and more like half the old town itself. A UNESCO Heritage Site, the palace was built by a fourth-century Roman emperor but was repurposed by every generation since. Stand in the central square or peristyle and you’ll see evidence of many civilizations that passed through. Neoclassical architecture mixes with the walls of the temple of Jupiter on one side, and the Cathedral of St. Domnius is on the other. In the middle are Egyptian granite columns and even a sphinx. Point your camera anywhere and you’re bound to capture centuries of history in a single click.

Agana Marina, 30 miles from Split, is home to experienced charter operators The Moorings and Sunsail. Although sailboats vastly outnumber powerboats in the country, The Moorings has a nice selection of large powercats that will cover the territory of 30 Dalmatian islands with ease. Although you’ll be provided a cruising guide, bring your own
charts of the Dalmatian Coast as well as a complete tourist guide like one from Lonely Planet. I like longer charters, especially if I’m going to travel all the way to Europe, but
there’s another reason to think beyond the weeklong vacation. The Dalmatian Coast is spectacular and with a powercat, you can make it all the way from the medieval Trogir Town down to the breathtaking Dubrovnik. The trip is worth the effort—I promise. Sadly, having only one week to work with, our itinerary was ambitious: nine destinations on five
islands. On our first day, we headed out to Vis Town (on Vis Island) and tied up Medmoor
style to the wall. We strolled through the magical Vis then organized a taxi to Komiza, a charming fishing village on the other side of the island. Worth every penny or “kuna”,
the inland tour included a look at vineyards and various caves that harbored partisans during World War II.

The next day we set course for Bisovo, a small island to the west of Vis and home of Modra Spilja (Blue Cave). We caught a mooring in the crowded harbor and boarded a skiff to enter the blue cave; it’s the only way to see it since no dinghies are allowed. Our small boat was loaded to the gunwales with sunburned tourists and without so much as a “Duck!”, the driver jammed us through the mouth of the very low cave and cut the outboard power. Out came a pole he used for propulsion from then on, like an Italian canal gondola.

Everything glowed a bright blue, the result of ambient light bouncing off the white sand below. It was a delightful adventure right down to the equally unnerving egress from the
cave via the same low hole. With plenty of daylight left, we headed for Pakelni Otoci
(loosely translated as Hell Islands). This string of islets clearly serves as the city getaway for local yachties. Beaches and water toys abound here around Sveti Klement Island during the summer, and the various coves are great windbreaks where you can enjoy a sundowner surrounded by natural beauty and no city in sight.

Only minutes from this natural paradise is Hvar Town, the polar opposite of laidback beachcombing. With bustling cafés and a chic, superyacht clientele chauffeured in on six-figure tenders, Hvar is the place to be seen. But even the glitterati bring their hiking shoes to walk up the steep but lovely trail to the fort. The hike is worth it and as a reward
offers spectacular views of the harbor below. Just on the north side of Hvar Island and deep inside an inlet is Stary Grad (Old City) that is much less glitzy than Hvar but exudes an irresistible old-world charm. No longer a part of the dour Eastern Bloc, Croatians are great entrepreneurs; every corner hides a quaint café or gourmet goodies shop that would make Napa Valley foodies drool.

As we made our counterclockwise journey, each subsequent town was more beautiful than the last, and we thought we were rock stars in choosing the best of the best. However, as we pulled into the next few towns like Milna on Brac Island and Maslinica on Solta Island, we realized it wasn’t our superior ability that made each town mesmerizing but that each town simply was mesmerizing. Tiny restaurants were packed into every alley and hotels added exotic flair by positioning curtained lounges on rocky beaches, an aesthetic that was all the more interesting due to the contrast. These hideaways are the perfect place to relax with a glass of rakija, the country’s answer to grappa, or slivovica, a plum brandy that will strip paint off a fence.

Local Knowledge

Each charter destination has its quirks and Croatia is no exception. The first thing you’ll notice is the Croatians’ approach to maritime rules of the road. Despite having to be somehow “certified” to charter here (RYA, European ICC or American Sailing Association’s IPC certificates), it’s the Wild West on the water. Right-of-way rules are mainly driven by testosterone and horsepower. Don’t be surprised to have boats race you to the quay and tie up even as you’re already backing toward the wall, fenders out.

Second, when cruising here in the summer, watch for “The Yacht Week”. The name is deceptive as this sailing odyssey for 20- and 30-somethings lasts all summer and not just a week. It’s a relentless onslaught on both visitors and locals.

With a new batch of porkpie hat-toting crew, licensed skippers ply the local waters, maneuvering from one all-night party to the next. Many charter companies dedicate
a portion of their fleet for the entire summer to this enterprise due to its marketing reach and youth appeal. It’s not unusual to see 20 “The Yacht Week” boats headed for a quay near you since there are several hundred of these charter boats out each week. Whenever
we spotted their long banners flying from backstays or huge stickers emblazoned on hulls, we quickly picked up and went elsewhere. But if you’re 20-something and like to drink, this flotilla may be welcome and the people watching is spectacular. For the rest of us, quieter, more remote anchorages and more cultural destinations may be preferable.

Finally, being of Eastern European descent myself, I found the language decipherable, but for most Canadians, Americans or Brits, Croatian signage may be cause for consternation. Eastern Europeans have an affinity for consonants and island names like Krk have no vowels at all, proving to be tongue-twisters for the uninitiated. Add to that a bounty of accent marks and plural and possessive word endings that change the spelling of a word completely, and you have an alphabet soup. However, most Croatians love to practice their English and will often go out of their way to help you out, especially if
you look particularly lost. English is spoken in most restaurants and shops in tourist
destinations.

The best defense against particularities is humor, so be sure to smile more and judge less and it will all seem amusing. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for telltale banners and clueless navigators to ensure that you have the most comprehensive charter vacation
possible.

By Zuzana Prochazka, Southern Boating December 2017

Caribbean Charters

The Virgin Islands, both the U.S. and British, are the top destinations for  Caribbean charters and yacht vacations, followed by the cruising grounds around St. Maarten-St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Barths. However, if you’re ready to explore less common waters and are eager to embrace the exhilaration of blue-water sailing, then head to the southern Caribbean.

The 40-some islands that include St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada are a great stepping-stone-style venue full of the charm found in off-the-beaten-track destinations. For example, in this 85-nautical mile stretch, stop at Mustique for a drink at Basil’s Bar.

Celebrities like Mick Jagger and Tommy Hilfiger have all enjoyed a toes-in-the-sand rum punch here. Other great stops are a visit to the Turtle Sanctuary on Bequia, the Tobago Cays marine park and the picture-perfect mostly deserted Paradise Beach on
Carriacou. To charter, check out Horizon Yacht Charters’ base in Grenada.

“We have a brand-new Lagoon 420 coming from France this winter and will be offering it for charter starting in February,” invites Jacqui Pascal, who with husband, James, directs the base.

horizonyachtcharters.com/grenada

By Carol Bareuther Southern Boating, November 2018
Photos: Hank George and Claueren Morel

Day Eight: Heading Home

Day Eight: Heading Home

Our final day was was sad just like any other last day of a fun-filled vacation. The morning was consumed with cleaning what we called home (power cat) for the past 7 days. We also gathered all of our left over provisions and searched the dock for departing sailors who may appreciate these treasures, like aluminum foil, charcoal, eggs and butter. We were in luck and met a very nice family just one slip over who were from England and taking the journey for the first time. Once we finished The Moorings departing brief we were on our way back to the Road Town fast ferry that would return us to the Charlotte Amalie, U.S.V.I. port and then one final taxi to the airport. We had a few more laughs before our flight back to Miami but it was obvious that our hearts were heavy with the yearning for one more cruise.

The plane that will take us back home.

Day Six: White Bay, Sandy Cay, and Norman’s Island

Day Six: White Bay, Sandy Cay, and Norman’s Island

We departed Great Harbor on Jost Van Dyke, anxious to explore more of the turquoise waters. We started the morning snagging our first mooring ball at White Bay, home of the famous Soggy Dollar bar and grill where patrons sign the guest book and linger with cold drinks, play a game of ring toss or just relax in the shallow waters with the provided chairs. What a fun way to start the day. Our next stop was a tiny island named Sandy Cay where the waters were crystal clear and the beach was inviting. We anchored for a quick swim and checked out the shoreline and then moved on cruising south to Normans Island. We settled on a mooring location in the Bight for a well-protected evening stay. Once we settled in we jumped in the dinghy’s for late day exploration before a yummy dinner onboard.

Day Seven: Privateer Bay, Soldier Bay, and Tortola

Day Seven: Privateer Bay, Soldier Bay, and Tortola

Our final day on the water was a bit sad knowing our vacation was coming to an end but we made sure to maximize our time on Norman Island. After a quick breakfast we moved our boats a little further to the west to Privateer Bay to set up our day anchorage to get closer to the snorkeling that included several caves at Treasure Point. They were a little eerie but we loved it! We further explored the coast in our dinghy’s to the farthest western point named Carvel where the waves crashed between the rocks and created quite a spectacle. From there we moved on to Soldier Bay to see what else we could find. We had a nice lunch on the aft deck and then suited up for our final snorkel excursion. A few hours later, as much as we hated to, we were headed back to The Moorings base on Tortola. We finished off the evening with a dip in their pool, so nice after a long day in the salty waters.

Day Five: Brewer’s Bay and Great Harbor Island

Day Five: Brewer’s Bay and Great Harbor Island

We departed Scrub Island at a leisurely pace and headed west along the northern coast of Tortola. After 40 minutes of cruising we arrived at our first destination of the day, Brewers Bay. This small, well-protected cove provided a picture perfect backdrop for our day filled with snorkeling, swimming and exploring the beach. We visited the small bar along the sand and met the local patrons and owner, Miss Lou who told us more about the history of the area and sprinkled in a little gossip too. We hated to leave but were anxious to get to our next destination, Great Harbor on Jost Van Dyke. We carefully selected our mooring ball to get the most protection from the strong winds common in this area and then quickly launched our dinghy so we could explore the famous little village. We strolled along the waterside road that is home to several small bars, restaurants, a gift shop, small market and dive shop. The strip is anchored by the well-known Foxy’s Bar where we popped in for a cold drink and took in the scenery of hundreds of T-shirts hung by patrons from around the world. Our evening ended with a fabulous meal and great conversation on the aft deck of our boat, doesn’t get much better than that.

Day Four: George Dog Island and Scrub Island

Day Four: George Dog Island and Scrub Island

We left Anegada and arrived an hour later at a cluster of islands known as “the Dogs.” There were no open moorings at Great Dog Island (you can’t anchor because it’s a national park) so we decided to head over to George Dog Island, where we had a great time and saw some beautiful reefs—beware of the thousands of baby jelly fish! The lush vegetation on the tiny beach we visited formed what seemed like a personal natural hideaway. Under the hideaway, visitors have left behind balanced stacks of rocks, we added to the tradition and created our own.

From George Dog we headed out and cruised to Scrub Island Resort & Marina on Scrub Island, our next home for the night. Once all docked and the boats hosed down, we opted for some pool-side relaxing time. We lost ourselves in the vast blue of the horizon from the infinity pool and sat back in the saltwater jacuzzi—the cherry on top. The luxurious property offers multiple villas, hotel rooms, a dive shop and market—yet has the feel of a small and intimate property. Taken by the island’s natural beauty, we chose to have dinner at Tierra! Tierra! their outdoor restaurant. We enjoyed a large spread of foods ranging from jerk chicken wings, ribs to red snapper ceviche and fresh caught grouper as we listened to the rhythmic sound of steel drums—island music par excellence.

Day Three: Anegada Island

Day Three: Anegada Island

Today, we cruised to the island of Anegada, whose highest point on the island is only 28 feet and has a population of only 250 people. Upon arriving we were greeted by several dinghy boats driven by locals, serenading and promoting their many services including dinner reservations, taxi cabs, fishing charters, and nightly entertainment. Each local was more creative than the next in trying to score our business. The one that stuck out the most was Sacko Sam (“with a capital S,” he says) as he approached the boat singing his own made up tunes to what a beautiful morning it was! He arranged for a taxi ride to take us from his restaurant to Loblolly Beach (north shore of the island), which boasts the best snorkeling on the island. We opted for the more local spot and were brought to Flash of Beauty Beach—a shack like building/restaurant run by a woman from Trinidad. Our taxi driver was very engaging and knowledgeable. He gave us a bit of a history lesson on our ride to the beach, showed us the local flamingos, wild goats, cows, and where sharks come to give birth. He was filled with fun facts! Did you know that certain fibers extracted from the leaves of an agave plant can be used to stitch your sail or even your skin? Fun facts aside, the snorkeling was amazing as strong currents kept us on the move allowing us to see a good portion of the reef.

Dinner gets it’s own paragraph because the entire experience was that spectacular! We decided to eat at Potter’s by the Sea, which is where Sacko Sam prepared a fabulous lobster dinner for 10. The lobsters are unlike any other I’ve ever seen before for consumption (especially in the United States). Sam brought what looked like an 8-10 pound lobster to tease us for what we were in store for at dinner. The meal was prepared Caribbean-style complete with grilled lobsters prepared a la Sam. After dinner, dancing under the stars and limbo began. Before departing Anegada we left our mark at Potter’s, southern boating style, leaving behind our vacation shirt and signing our names with Sharpies! So, bring your sharpies and leave your mark too!

Day Two: Virgin Gorda Island

Day Two: Virgin Gorda Island

Our first full day on the boat was a great one! We threw “ structure” out of our day and just went with the flow—what an amazing feeling. We woke up and started cruising to our next destination before we even had breakfast; we just couldn’t wait! This kind of laxity isn’t something you get to experience on a daily basis, but how easy would it be to get used to.

Our first stop was Virgin Gorda to see The Baths. The gargantuan boulders lie on the sands like marbles a giant left behind. Our first suggestion to everyone visiting The Baths, is to make sure you pick the right spot to start exploring. We made the mistake of unloading all of our gear too far north and ended up having to do a lot of extra swimming to circumvent some of the spots with boulders. The only way we would have been able to get around was by jumping from boulder to boulder (!). We could have stayed there all day, it was stunning.

Our second and last stop for the day was at Bitter End Yacht Club. We slowly cruised up the coast from The Baths to BEYC. First thing on our agenda as we arrived at the club was frozen drinks at the pool—so refreshing. We had dinner at one of their restaurants (The Clubhouse Steak & Seafood Grille); they couldn’t have sat us at a better table—just a foot away from the water. The property and service are top notch.

Not much to report on after-dinner activities as we are starting to notice a trend: Staying up past 9PM is proving to be very difficult after a day full of fun in the sun!

Day One: Cooper Island

Day One: Cooper Island

Cruising day one of our great vacation has come and gone! It began with finishing up provisioning for both of our boats, so we can start cruising towards Cooper Island. The journey was short with beautiful views including the spectacular multiple-shades of blue water. The most difficult decision of the afternoon was definitely picking out which moorings to tie up to, just kidding!

The Great Southern Boating Vacation

Southern Boating is going on an adventure and wants to bring you along!

Join us as we cruise through the British Virgin Islands discovering new adventures and cuisine aboard two of the Moorings’ powercat motoryachts. Our family vacation will take us cruising through seven islands before ending back in Tortola.

Mark your calendars because our adventure sets sail August 7th. Here’s our initial itinerary:
Day 1, Cooper Island; Day 2-3, Virgin Gorda Island; Day 4, Anegada Island; Day 5, Marina Cay; Day 6, Cane Garden Bay; Day 7, Great Harbour.

Day One: Cooper Island

Southern Boating Crew at The Moorings Base before leaving the docks

 

Day Two: Virgin Gorda Island

Giant boulders create some amazing adventures to explore and enjoy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day Three: Anegada

Southern Boating proudly flying it’s burgee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our journey has been extraordinary and we are having a wonderful time. We have been plagued with not so reliable WiFi connections. We’ll keep posting.

Day Four: George Dog Island and Scrub Island

The Moorings PowerSails in front of Pusser’s on our way into Scrub Island.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day Five: Brewer’s Bay and Great Harbor Island

Cruising the west side of Tortola, BVI.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day Six: White Bay, Sandy Cay, and Norman’s Island

Mooring off White Bay and going to visit the Soggy Dollar store.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day Seven: Privateer Bay, Solder Bay, and Tortola

Heading to Privateer Bay to explore the caves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day Eight: Heading Home

The airport entrance—the vacation is over.

Charters For Everyone

Regardless of your budget or lifestyle, there’s a boat charter ideally suited for you.

Prior to the year 2000, I had the impression that boat charters were of two distinct varieties:

1. Crewed luxury megayachts that only the uber wealthy could afford, or

2. Single-hulled sailboats for experienced yachtsmen qualified to plot a course using only the stars and a compass and who crossed the Atlantic at least once.

I qualified in neither category, but now after two charter trips to the British Virgin Islands (B.V.I.)—the first in 2000 onboard a crewed sailing catamaran with two other couples and the second in 2012 on a power cat courtesy of The Moorings—I’m convinced that just about anyone not only can, but should charter. With over 70 percent of the earth’s surface covered by oceans, our planet’s cruising grounds simply beg for exploration. Most boat owners, however, have neither the range nor the vacation time to reach them. Now, with myriad charter companies and itinerary options available—whether your vacation time and budget are limited or large, or you’ve been cruising for decades or just days—chartering is for everyone.

For those who might feel more comfortable in U.S. waters for their maiden charter, Southwest Florida Yachts, based at Tarpon Point Marina on the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, Florida offers a three-day Basic Powerboating course to brush up on boating skills while at the same time become familiar with your charter boat. A four- or five-day charter is enough time to get your feet wet, explore Sanibel and Captiva Islands, or even venture to Key West. Staying on the hook or mooring balls will make the trip more affordable, but if you start missing land, there are plenty of marinas to duck into, and reservations are easily made since you’re in cell phone range.

On our first charter to the B.V.I. in 2000, even though we were all knowledgeable boat owners and cruised frequently, we opted for an owner-crewed sailing catamaran. Our boat’s owners were well acquainted with all the area had to offer and customized our charter according to our interests: frequent snorkeling, at least one SCUBA dive to the Rhone and several shore excursions. We found the company online through a small, private charter website, but since then, numerous charter companies have established base operations throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean and offer a wide range of boats and options. From most U.S. airports, two flights will get you to your charter operator’s base location. The Moorings based on Tortola has more than 400 charter boats, both sail and power in a variety of sizes and layouts, including the 393 power cat we used with one other couple in 2012 for our first bareboat experience. Prior to boarding our boat, a detailed presentation provided pertinent information and ample opportunity for getting our questions answered. The company assembled all the equipment and information in advance, including prepaid cruising permits, a mandatory cell phone preprogrammed with all the pertinent contacts, and water toys such as a kayak and paddleboard. Having been to the area previously, we knew that line-of-sight navigation was one of the benefits to chartering in the B.V.I., and that the close proximity of islands ensures a host of options for ample entertainment, mooring or snorkeling options. (Advice: When you charter in the B.V.I., save time by flying to Tortola rather than St. Thomas. The flight will cost more, but you’ll save time and money on the hotel and ferry.)

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If you’re a bit on the frugal side, it’s always cheaper to stay on the hook or pick up a mooring ball in the B.V.I., but if you’re not as concerned with pinching pennies on your charter or need to stretch your sea legs, many resorts extend their amenities to marina guests, so it pays to reserve at least one night at their marina for a bit—or a bevy—of pampering. Peter Island Resort & Spa’s idyllic setting on 1,800 acres offers a great deal more than pampering, however, with paved walkways for hikes, a gourmet mountaintop sunset experience, and acclaimed spa, all of which are topped off with fabulous views in nearly every direction. (peterisland.com) If there’s room in your budget for more than one indulgence, save at least one more night for Scrub Island Resort (scrubisland.com), which is conveniently situated close to Tortola’s airport on Beef Island—the resort has an airport water shuttle service. The small island provides a more intimate, relaxed setting than some of the busier islands in the B.V.I., and if you’ve budgeted for a spa visit, save it for Scrub Island, where I had the best massage of my life by Spa Director Emily Lancaster in a spa-cottage by the sea with its own private outdoor mini-pool. If romance is what you’re after, in addition to the two-tiered pool overlooking the marina—with a fun slide we just had to try—a smaller more private pool setting on the other side of the small island is perfect for intimate gatherings and provides an unrestricted island view at ocean’s edge.

For some, the love of bareboat charters has become an annual tradition. Los Angeles-based well-known film producer Alan J. Levi and his wife of 25 years, actress Sondra “Sam” Currie—she plays Zach Galifianakis’ mother in The Hangover film series—have chartered boats for more than two decades. A few years ago they contacted Southern Boating for advice having read an article about chartering in Europe (November 2010 issue) and subsequently planned their own charter vacation à la the canals and rivers surrounding Venice, Italy. “This year our boating experience was totally different than any other in the past 23 years. First, boating down to the Venice Lagoon puts you in ‘open water’ for much of the trip—not just a narrow canal or river,” says Levi, whose film credits include numerous episodes in the Magnum, P.I., Columbo and NCIS television series. “It’s not for the ‘first-timer’, for the navigation in the open water between markers—which jut out of the lagoon—is not anything you might want to venture into if you don’t have a bit of boating experience.”

The Hollywood couple chartered from Le Boat’s Casale, Italy location about 21 miles north of Venice and describes the charter operation there as “quite well equipped, good staff and plenty of boats.” One of the drawbacks, however, is the absence of provisioning services, which Levi said was easily remedied by cruising 10 minutes north to the town of Casier, where two small grocery stores close by provide enough to get the trip started. (After all, what more does one need besides bread and water, cheese and Italian wine?)

The rest of their loosely-planned itinerary included a stopover on the island of Burano, which turned into a three-day visit in order to sample the renowned restaurants and lace shops. After a four-day stop in Venice—which Levi says will guarantee you at least a pound per day added to your waistline—they were treated to the most surprising excursion of their charter at the little fishing village of Chioggia—another not-to-be- missed one-day stop that stretched to four. “There are perhaps 200-250 large fishing boats tied up on both sides of the village, and they depart about 4:30 or 5:00 each morning for the open Adriatic, returning about 7:30 or so with boatloads of fresh catch,” recounts Levi and adds that the fleet serves the entire region with daily fresh fish, including several dozen fish markets in the area. “We tied up our boat in one of the four ‘Reserved for Le Boat’ slots in the marina, right next to a charming little trattoria, which on our first night held a live jazz night from their open boat tied up right next to ours. Between the absolutely marvelous jazz quintet, the 40 or so outdoor tables with over 100 people eating and enjoying the music right there within waving distance, and the owner of the trattoria who asked if he could bring our dinner up to the top deck of our boat for us to enjoy from that vantage point, it was a truly unforgettable experience. And the wine was as fine as the evening!”

The only problem Levi encountered during their entire trip was unrelated to their boat or boating skills. “Because of the extreme drought in Italy (we saw perhaps 30 or more cornfields that were totally burnt out—brown—with not an ear of corn to harvest), the canal and river were both so low with water, that we never make it to our destinations by boat. The waterways were closed,” Levi recalls. Instead, they stopped in a fun town and took a 45-minute bus ride into the towns they wanted to see. Although others accomplished the trip in two weeks or less, Levi chartered for three weeks, which allowed them the time to leisurely explore and led to a number of unexpected encounters they would have missed on a shorter trip.

Keep in mind that certification in boating proficiency is now required by many countries, including most European nations. Best Boat Club (bestboatclub.com) has partnered with two internationally-recognized organizations—US Sailing and US Powerboating—to provide the certifications needed to charter sail or power boats internationally. The entry-level class, Safe Sail- or Powerboat Handling, is designed for people with zero or very limited boat experience and certifies students to operate boats up to 27′. It also qualifies students for Florida’s Boat Smart certificate. Those who have more boating experience can test out of the entry-level class for a fee, which can be applied to the second of three classes required for international certification. Basic Powerboat Cruising teaches skills for navigating boats 28-32′ for longer periods and includes hands-on coursework on board for learning engine and electrical systems. Finally, Inshore Powerboat Cruising and Night Operation prepares students for multi-day and overnight trips within sight of land and includes an International Proficiency Certificate. While many boating “schools” offer boating classes, Director of Training Derek Edwards says the skills you learn from Best Boat Club offer much more. “Our program is certified by U.S. Powerboat and U.S. Sailing, who are very stringent in their requirements for instructors that goes way beyond what a United States Coast Guard license requires,” says Edwards, who adds there is a common misperception that a U.S. Coast Guard license fulfills requirements for chartering regardless of the location. According to Edwards, in the U.S., only the U.S. Powerboat and Sailing programs qualify for international charters.

For those without the time for or interest in classes, however, luxury crewed charters are always an option and—depending on the size and location of the yacht and number of charter guests sharing expenses—can actually be a surprisingly cost-competitive alternative to higher-end cruise ship vacations. The difference is, of course, that your cruising experience is completely customized. Tahiti and other islands in the South Pacific are becoming more popular for yacht charters since many yacht owners want the opportunity to use their yachts in those waters and are interested in offsetting their expenses. Some even offer charters to Antarctica.

Whether you bareboat, hire a captain and small crew, or charter a luxury yacht, enthusiasts like Alan and “Sam”—along with Southern Boating’s editor, publisher and many others—treasure the memories that charters avail: delightful dining at off-the-beaten-path cafés and diners, chance encounters with new friends both above and below the waterline, and cruising the same waters that famous explorers once did. The perfect charter vacation is waiting for you regardless of your lifestyle, experience or budget. Don’t wait—buy a cruising guide, book a charter, connect with your inner Magellan, and create new memories.

 

By Liz Pasch, Southern Boating September 2013

 

Marina Magic

Don’t let a substandard marina ruin your fun in the sun.

Before buying your boat you most likely compared similar models at one or more boat shows, combed through stacks of brochures, surfed websites and blogs, or solicited advice until you found the perfect boat for you and your family. Choosing the right marina should be given the same amount of attention—according to our panel of boat owners, cruisers and industry experts—since making a hasty decision can be a costly mistake both financially and in terms of your recreational time and effort. Whether you choose a marina for long-term dockage, a weekend trip or simply boat ramp service, take these considerations into account and rank them in terms of importance according to your family’s boating lifestyle.

Look for marinas certified as a “Clean Marina.

Location, location, location

How often do you use your boat? If it’s just weekends and holidays, then an hour’s drive to the marina may not be a big deal. But if you enjoy mid-week getaways after a harrowing workday, then something closer to you will provide the break you need to survive the week. Where do you like to cruise? Does the marina have clear access to a channel that’s well maintained and dredged for adequate depth? If you plan to cruise at night, are the markers well lit for your return? Paying attention in advance to all of these considerations will make your cruising time less stressful and more enjoyable.

Safety doesn’t happen by accident

Is the marina’s neighborhood safe or do the surrounding unlit streets invite thieves? If you cruise for the weekend and leave your car at the marina, make sure it will be safe and secure. Is appropriate safety equipment—fire extinguisher, ladder, throw ring, etc.—available at the marina docks? Has the marina been designed to withstand strong storms or hurricanes, or will you need to move your boat to an alternate location for storms?

Pump-out, pools and playgrounds

Differentiate between your basic marina facility requirements and the extras that you can do without. At the very least, water and electricity should be available at your slip. For some cruisers, however, having pump-out at every slip is a requirement since they frequently entertain multiple guests and family members. Depending on the size of your boat and number of guests, you may also value a modern restroom with showers, an ice machine, laundry, fuel, ship store, swimming pool, workout center, grill center, and playground. Is garbage removal taken care of? If you forget something at home and there’s no marina store on site, how close is the nearest store?

Cost, rules, and the cost of rules

What is included in the price of your dockage? Utilities can add up especially if the marina adds fees you weren’t expecting. Pay special attention to the fine print, especially to any wording that is overly restrictive such as not allowing you to do maintenance work. If you have a pet that regularly accompanies you while cruising, make sure the marina is pet-friendly. Is there transient dockage in case you have friends with boats that want to visit your marina? If you intend to cruise for weeks or months at a time, do you get a portion of the fee back if the marina rents your space to transients? Are you allowed to sublease your own space through websites like mooragemarket.com?

Social climbers

Do you enjoy social events like dock parties or do you prefer solitude? Some marinas are known for loud parties every weekend or are close to bars that attract the party crowd, while others host frequent poker runs or annual boat shows. Find out in advance if the marina sponsors boating events that might infringe on your privacy. If you love the marina but hate the event, then maybe that should be the weekend you go cruising.

Elegant swimming pools are attractive features at marinas but can significantly add to the slip fees. Photo: The Resort @ Longboat Key.

Apology to ecology

How important is being “green” to you and your family? If respecting the environment is one of your family’s mottos and you support businesses that have that same commitment, look for marinas certified as a “Clean Marina.” The program was developed to provide facilities that are environmentally clean and protect the coastal and inland waters from pollution. A “Clean Marina” designation means the marina has gone above and beyond what the law requires. In Florida alone there are 263 designated Clean Marinas, 38 Clean Boatyards and 17 Clean Retailers throughout the state. dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina

Mr. Fix-It

Do you value the convenience of on-site repair services or conversely, would you prefer the absence of a boatyard at the marina where you enjoy leisure time on your boat? There are definite advantages and disadvantages to both lines of thinking.

According to Neil Ross, founding president of the International Marina Institute, one of the easiest ways to evaluate a marina is just by walking the docks and talking to people. “Look for neatness. Do they pay attention to the premises? That’s a good indication of how they feel about their equipment and pride of the facility,” says Ross, whose expertise is in marinas and marina management. “A good place to start is by looking at the bathrooms. That’s the place that marina operators get the most complaints on.” Ross recommends conversing with dockworkers, maintenance crew and other employees. If they’re happy in their job, chances are customers are happy too.

Ross also advises would-be marina lessees to pay close attention to the marina’s signage. “If their signs are all negative and list what NOT to do instead of encouraging positive behavior, that’s a good indication of the temperament of the owners.” Likewise, marinas that host classes for their customers about boating-related topics indicate the management is positive and helpful.

Unless you own waterfront property with a private dock, for many, marinas provide the only access to the boating playground your family loves. This summer make sure the marina you choose is the right one.

 

By Liz Pasch, Southern Boating June 2013

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