For those of you who want to charter in 2009 but are on a tight budget – many of our clients are saving on airfare by chartering closer to home, while keeping the same quality of yacht and charter experience. Similar to land based “staycations”, here are some ideas for an amazing charter experience without long flights.
South Florida and the Keys – America’s Sunshine State offers everything you’d want from an exotic charter – islands (the keys), coral diving and snorkeling, beach bars and restaurants, glorious sunsets – all a quick stop from Miami.
Bahamas – The Bahamas offer clear turquoise waters teeming with life, gorgeous beaches on hundreds of coral islands, quiet anchorages, renowned ports, and a swashbuckling history that dates from Columbus’ times. Just 100 miles off the coast of Florida you can be on a yacht with a minimum of hassle, making the Bahamas both a perfect charter holiday destination and great for events such as weddings, celebrations, honeymoons, or business meetings.
New England – New England offers both rugged rocky coastlines and gorgeous sandy beaches, destinations including Newport RI, Cape Cod, Marthas Vineyard, Boston, and the thousands of islands, coves and lobstering towns of Maine. It always provides history, charm, understated elegance and a seafaring culture. Many yachts that normally return to the Mediterranean during the summer will instead cruise up the Atlantic coast, so this may be a great year for a charter in New England! 
Pacific Northwest – San Francisco, Seattle, the gorgeous Pacific Coastline, Vancouver and all the way up to Alaska – the richness and grandeur of the Pacific Northwest are second to none. If you haven’t seen the Golden Gate, Space Needle or a live glacier, think about the Pacific Northwest this year.
Great Lakes – For fresh water sailing with the feel of an ocean, the great lakes offer excellent charter itineraries with plenty of great yachts – both motor and sail. From the wilderness of Northern Michigan, to the cosmopolitan city of Chicago, the Great Lakes can deliver a charter that meets your summer holiday needs
