Category Archives: Grenadines

A Caribbean Charter: Embrace Eco-Friendly Activities in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of our favorite destinations for a crewed catamaran charter. But we need to become increasingly conscious of our impact as we travel, so engaging in more eco-friendly activities on vacation is one way to do so.

Our team at Boatbookings has been visiting the Caribbean for years and, unfortunately, is seeing increasing negative impacts on the islands. We want you and future generations to enjoy this paradise, and we need to preserve our planet and oceans. 

So, here are some ways you can enjoy the Caribbean with less of an impact: 

Snorkel in Marine Reserves

One of the best ways to appreciate the Caribbean’s underwater wonders is by snorkeling. There are so many designated marine reserves, like the Tobago Cays Marine Park in St Vincent and the Grenadines, that ensure that these ecosystems continue to be protected. When exploring the underwater world in these regulated parks, refrain from touching or disturbing any marine life and wear reef-friendly suncream to minimize your impact further.

Responsible Wildlife Encounters 

The Caribbean is home to unique and diverse wildlife throughout the islands, from sea turtles nesting on the beaches to exotic birds in the forests. Choose wildlife excursions that adhere to ethical practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to the animals and their habitats. Various islands offer opportunities to witness sea turtle conservation efforts; check out the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network to learn more. 

Community-Based Tourism 

While you are on your crewed charter catamaran, you can engage with local communities in plenty of ways. Contact us to learn about the community-based tourism initiatives in the area you will be cruising. These experiences offer authentic insights into Caribbean culture while directly benefitting local economies. There are plenty of activities that foster a connection with the community and contribute to sustainable development. 

Conservation Projects 

Take part in organized beach cleanups or conservation projects that aim to protect the coastal ecosystems. Many organizations in the Caribbean regularly host community events focused on protecting the coastal and marine environments. If you are chartering in the Bahamas, you can learn about the importance of coral reefs. The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation offers various programs and expert-led snorkeling tours, and you can even adopt your own coral fragment! 

Fish Sustainably 

One particular threat to the Caribbean’s natural balance is the lionfish, an invasive species from the Pacific Ocean. There are various initiatives across the islands to try to control the population. In St Lucia, you can participate in educational lionfish diving and fishing excursions. 

Local Hiking Tours 

You can enjoy guided hiking tours with local tour operators within the lush rainforests that cover the islands. These give you an insight into the incredible environments and local cultures. The Wallings Nature Reserve in Antigua is managed by women from the nearby village of John Hughes, and they led various solo and guided hiking tours, highlighting local flora and species; all fees support the reserve. 

By choosing more eco-friendly activities and supporting sustainable initiatives, generations to come will also be able to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean. Contact one of the Boatbookings team today to chat about your next greener crewed charter catamaran vacation in the Caribbean. And leave only footprints! 

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Caring for the captivating Caribbean coral reefs

Coral Reefs are worth caring for!

The pleasure of exploring the underwater marine seascape is a wonderful experience during your Caribbean yacht charter. There are so many fabulous coral reefs to explore, you’re spoilt for choice. Among the best are the incredible reefs of Virgin Gorda and Anegada. To continue to enjoy these magical underwater worlds and help preserve them for others to visit, there are a few simple guidelines to help care for coral reefs.

Coral reefs are the largest living structures on the planet and amazingly the only living structure visible from space! The operative word here being ‘living’. Unbelievably, corals are classified in the same grouping as jellyfish and anemones. They are living creatures, needing nourishment to grow and reproduce.

Whichever catamaran you choose for your charter, our captains and crew are committed to preserving this marine equilibrium and caring for coral reefs, and none more so than the crew of ALTESSE who have introduced biodegradable soaps, banned single-use plastics, and even insist on coral-friendly sunscreen aboard this magnificent catamaran.

It’s not hard to enjoy the reefs while also preventing damage to this aquatic paradise. Most importantly, you can just follow the lead of our experienced crews who live in the region and understand how to help preserve coral. Key practices are:

  • Never anchor or go aground in a coral reef, except in specifically designated areas.
  • Never walk in coral
  • Don’t touch the coral when you’re snorkeling or diving
  • Do not harvest coral or attempt to take it out of the water
  • Use coral-safe sunscreens
  • Do not throw garbage overboard (it can contain items toxic to coral)
  • Use bio-degradable soaps and shampoos
  • Keep all water pollution (oil, garbage, trash, etc.) to an absolute minimum

Here are more practices recommended by the US Environental Protection Agency.

A blanched coral reef from global warming

CO2 emissions and reef protection.

Perhaps the greatest threat to coral reefs is the warming of the seas due to excess carbon in our atmosphere. While climate change is visible and most talked about on land, our oceans absorb 70% of the heat from CO2 emissions and this is having a significant impact on sea temperatures. Increased water temperature often results in “blanching” which is an innocuous way so saying a mass coral death event. While no one person can stop climate change, the UN notes that 2/3rds of CO2 emissions come from personal household decisions. So collectively reducing our carbon footprints can have a dramatic impact. One decision we can help you with is chartering low emissions sailing catamarans!

During your Boatbookings charter by paying attention to guidelines like these you can contribute to the preservation of the Caribbean’s stunning wildlife, ensuring its beauty and diversity, while you create unforgettable memories.

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3 New Boats to Explore the Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most diverse yachting hotspots in the world. Offering everything from the chic beach clubs of St Barths to the isolated anchorages of the Grenadines, there really is a Caribbean island for everyone. We have shared the latest Caribbean crewed catamarans to inspire your next vacation.

The New BVI Scuba Diving Boat

SCUBA DOO 50 | Lagoon 50 Crewed Catamaran

Join Captain Jesse and Christian onboard SCUBA DOO 50 and enjoy one of the most breathtaking BVI yacht charter vacations. Captain Jesse has been delivering memorable charters in the Virgin Islands for over 5 years. Therefore, he will show you his favourite anchorages designed around your snorkelling and scuba diving preferences.

Chef Christian has worked in some of the British Virgin Islands top restaurants. As your dedicated private chef, she will dazzle your tastebuds. Their joint passion to pamper and entertain your guests make this BVI charter crew the perfect team to guide you through this Caribbean gem.

The New BVI Gourmet Charter Boat

GRACE | Lagoon 52 Crewed Catamaran

Are you looking for the ultimate diving and water sports experience in the British Virgin Islands? Look no further than chartering the brand new Lagoon 52 GRACE with Captain Joseph and Britta next year. No matter whether you’re a beginner snorkeler or advanced scuba diver, Britta’s knowledge and expertise always deliver unforgettable experiences.

Joseph and Britta have fantastic connections with the local Virgin Islands community. Their contacts ensure that they have access to the freshest ingredients. Chef Joseph spent 5 years perfecting the art of fine dining with Caribbean influences aboard 120 Broward Motor Yacht Freedom. Get ready to be mesmerised by his incredible creations.

The New Grenadines Catamaran

ILLUSION | Nautitech 46 Crewed Catamaran

Join Captain Bruno and his daughter aboard the brand new Nautitech 46 in Martinique and the Grenadines. As one of the only crewed catamarans with a flexible cruising area, you will have unrivalled flexibility to discover a new Caribbean island. Captain Bruno loves nothing more than showing his guests the beauty of the different islands aboard sailing catamaran ILLUSION.

Chef Jessica has been sailing with Bruno ever since she was a toddler! Jessica has an extensive culinary repertoire, specialising in French and Mediterranean cuisine. As a result, she can easily adapt her menu to suit any guest preferences. Her hosting skills will make you feel right at home aboard ILLUSION!

So, what are you waiting for?

The Caribbean crewed catamarans book 12 months in advance. So speak to the Boatbookings Team today to plan the best 2021 yacht charter.

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Summer 2020 on DRAGONFLY in the Grenadines

Have you been chartering in the BVI for years and tempted to try a new Caribbean island? With an increasing number of quality catamarans heading down islands during the summer months, there has never been a better time to consider a Grenadines yacht charter.

One of our favourite Lagoon 620 crewed catamarans, DRAGONFLY, has confirmed that they will be down in the Grenadines from June 2020. DRAGONFLY is one of the newest Lagoon 620s in the Caribbean with a vastly experienced crew in Christiaan and Hanrie, who always offer exceptional service, food and enjoyment for guests of all ages.

DRAGONGLY Feedback

“ The most amazing start to a year anyone could dream of – thank you. We have been absolutely spoilt rotten by your food, hospitality and endless activities for the boys and you have chosen a spectacular backdrop for showcasing your skills. Whether swimming with turtles, stingrays or tarpons, tubing or snorkelling on incredible reefs, we had a series of unforgettable experiences. Thank you so much Boatbookings, we can`t wait to come back! ”

The Grenadines are the perfect catamaran cruising ground. They offer stunning sunsets, long sandy beaches and some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean. Embark in Grenada and head for the peaceful anchorages of Carriacou, before kite surfing on Union Islands and visiting the famous Basil’s Bar in Mustique.

The Grenadines really do offer something for everyone. Contact your Boatbookings Broker today to start planning your next adventure.

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