Uncle Roddys Beach Bar is a Destination Must for Yachtsmen Cruising the Leeward Islands

Rodman George of Uncle Roddy’s Beach Bar in Barbuda, listed among the Top 20 Beach Shacks in the Caribbean, will commemorate Princess Diana in a local ceremony.

Roddy’s Beach Bar, owned by renowned bartender Rodman “Roddy” George, opened its doors in 2005 to become legendary among yachtsmen sailing the Leeward Islands. Uncle Roddy’s Bar is steps from a pristine, white sand beach with magnificent views of neighboring islands Antigua, Montserrat, St Kitts, and Nevis.

An abundance of lobster, expertly prepared, and signature cocktails have provided the foundation for the growing fame of Uncle Roddy’s, recently rated one of the Top 20 Beach Bars in the Caribbean by Conde Nast Traveler.

George worked at the exclusive K Club as a bartender before opening his own place. Among the many famous guests at the resort the most celebrated was Princess Diana. In her honor and to commemorate what would have been her 50th birthday, Barbudan residents have elected to name a beach after her.

Councilwoman Dorcas Beazer commented, “We were honored to host Princess Diana on her many visits to Barbuda, and I believe that it is people like Uncle Roddy and the hospitality and laid back charm of Barbudans that inspired her repeat visits to Barbuda.”

Proprietor Rodman George will join Governor General Dame Louise Lake Tack, local Barbudan officials and residents in lighting a flotilla of 50 lanterns to signify the hope, peace and harmony that Princess Diana brought to Barbuda and to help spread her spirit of humanity via the ocean to the rest of the world. For persons who cannot attend the ceremony, their messages will be carefully placed on lanterns and floated off in the ensemble.

Uncle Roddy’s is located on the beach front known as The Coral Group Bay. Anchor by Coco Point and tender west along the shoreline until you spot the rooftop of the beach villa adjacent to the property. Or telephone 1 268 785 3268 for a lift.

Here is a link to useful destination information for Caribbean Yacht Charter.

Azimut-Benetti Group Hosts Spectacular Venice Debut for the New Azimut 45 and Atlantis 44

Last Saturday Azimut Benetti revealed the newest offerings from the company headed by Paolo Vitelli in a world premier staged against the magnificent backdrop of Venice, Italy. The sporty Azimut 45 and Atlantis 44 were moored in front of the Hotel Excelsior Lido, the grand finale of an 18th century Venice themed evening: masks, costumes, Venetian Republic Heralds and the Rondò Veneziano Chamber Orchestra paved the way for the triumphant appearance of the new arrivals.

Certainly the most innovative element of the Azimut 45 is convertibility. The entire yacht has several areas designed with flexible, modular arrangements that allow a transformation of the space according to the requirement, or whim, of the moment. Designers Stefano Righini e Carlo Galeazzi collaborated with the shipyard to create a yacht that is roomy, comfortable and adjustable. For instance, the cockpit can be converted from a relaxation area into a dining area and interior spaces can be configured in different layouts to better accommodate different uses and allow maximum livability even in tight quarters.

The Atlantis 44’ was selected by Volvo Penta for the exclusive debut of their very powerful D6 400 Z-drive diesel engine. The innovative and conceptually revolutionary engine boasts a faster sprint and a top speed exceeding 36 knots. The engine is also designed to maintain cruising speeds at lower RPMs, enabling a significant reduction in fuel consumption. In addition, this lightweight and compact engine has noticeably reduced noise and vibration levels for greater passenger comfort.

Use this link to reach information and worldwide locations of Azimut Charter Yachts.

New Moonen 97: A Promising Series for the Luxury Charter Market

The brand-new Moonen 97 began sea trials on the North Sea and thus far the results are impressive. This is the fourth hull of the series, which has a four stateroom layout based on the popular Moonen 84, but with notable added volume.

To keep the profile low and maintain the series image, designer René van der Velden replaced the raised pilothouse of the 96 with a longer flying bridge and sun deck. With a handsome flared bow, gently sloping stern and graceful sheer, the Moonen 97 retains the essence of the brand.

Contemporary interiors juxtapose sensual curves against subtle geometrics. The pleasing result is serene and sophisticated. Spacious crew accommodation makes the Moonen 97 easily adapted to chartering.

The Moonen 97 was given an excellent performance rating by several leading yacht journalists who were on board during a sea trial. The yacht is now completely finished and available for delivery

Click here to see the shipyard video of a Moonen 97 sistership.

LOA: 97 ft.

Beam: 24 ft.

Draft: 7.2 ft.

Hull: Steel

Superstructure: Aluminum

Fuel: 7,265 Gal.

Water: 1,770 Gal.

Engines: 2 x Cat C18 448 kW 2 1800 rpm

Maximum speed: 13 knots

Cruising speed: 12 knots

Range: 4500 nm

Please use this helpful link to explore the possibilities of Luxury Yacht Charter.

A Romantic Sailing Yacht, A Dreamy Location, Celebrate Your Special Occasion

Reaction, a very popular yacht for very good reasons

Memorialize your special event with a romantic charter on board an elegant luxury yacht. Here is a selection of yachts with dreamy layouts and delightful crews that are ideal for your celebration. For an intimate, exciting and memorable honeymoon, anniversary, or romantic getaway, share with your loved one an experience that will create memories well worth passing down.

DOUBLE EXPOSURE Cruise the Florida Keys on this all inclusive yacht, air conditioned yacht that

Double Exposure is a sail and power catamaran perfect for the Florida Keys

is as ideal for sunning as relaxing in the shade.

Discover the pristine and secluded Bahamas aboard Dream Ketcher

DREAM KETCHER is a 41 foot ketch in the Abaco Islands of the Bahamas.  Rate is all inclusive with bar and up to 1 dive per day for certified divers.

REACTION is all inclusive 55 foot catamaran that will thrill divers with up to 5 dives per person per week in the amazingly clear waters of the Virgin Islands.

SANDCASTLE is a seaworthy 72 foot ketch in the Virgin Islands. The all

Sandcastle "The ranking went 1 to 10. We rate this yacht a 12"

inclusive special honeymoon package includes two spa treatments or two scuba dives.

Sayang "A fantastic sailboat, a superb captain and a lovely hostess"

SAYANG is a 55′ foot cutter  that sails in the Virgin Islands. SAYANG is one of our top picks for honeymooners, a lovely yacht with a very fastidious crew. Celebrate all inclusive, with complimentary fruit basket, bottle of champagne, $100 towards dinner ashore or spa treatment.

5 STAR, of all the monohulls in the Virgin Islands, has the classiest ambiance and a crew that accommodates clients in a 5 STAR manner with superb hospitality. Very romantic master suite in the forpeak with excellent amenities including terry robes, slippers.

SOULS CALLING is an owner version layout of the Lagoon 500 and has an elegant master suite with dressing area, large bathroom, and true privacy.  Amenities, like the hammock and center console tender, make this a very upscale yacht.

5 Star, a fantastic Benateau for couples looking to get away to paradise

Here is a link that presents superb celebration options worldwide for Yacht Charter for Your Perfect Honeymoon.

Souls Calling has an amazing crew and excellent amenities

AROUND SICILY IN 500 MILES: 14 Day Itinerary Courtesy of Luxury Sailing Yacht YUK

Circumnavigating Sicily is an experience of a lifetime. The captain and crew of YUK, a Hallberg-Rassy 62 foot sailing yacht, invite guests for an intimate journey into this land of extraordinary art and culture, fantastic landscapes and renowned cuisine. Sail 500 miles around Sicily while sampling the finest local food and wine both on shore and on board your luxury charter yacht. Explore the most interesting places on the coast and islands while sailing upon the crystal waters of three seas: the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Mediterranean.

Day 1: Depart from the capital city of Palermo to San Vito Lo Capo, a small town nestled between spectacular mountains, famous for the international Cous Cous Fest and dotted with charming seaside restaurants.  Enjoy a classic dinner of fish couscous San Vito washed down by a fine local wine.

Day 2: Sail from San Vito to the historic town of Erice located 750 meters above sea level. There are two castles and impressive ancient ruins worth visiting. Savor luncheon al fresco at anchor before navigating to Favignana, popular for diving and snorkeling. Dive into the ocean in the afternoon then prepare to explore the town and anchor for the night.

Day 3: Favignana is famous for bluefin tuna caught using ancient Arab techniques, and caves of calcarenite rock. Visit the tuna factory, do a bit of shopping and play in the sparkling sea. In the afternoon depart for Marsala, a short distance of 10 miles. Drop anchor in Marsala Lagoon and visit the windmills of Mozia Aperitif. Visit the old town at sunset for spectacular views and explore the ancient market of Marsala.

Day 4: The cruise from Marsala to Porto Empedocle passes 66 miles of spectacular coastline. There are several port towns and lovely beaches that are perfect for shore excursions. Moor in Porto Empedocle that lies on the coast of the Strait of Sicily and is steeped in culture and history.

Day 5: This morning visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. The Greek pre-socratic philosopher Empedocles

was a citzen of this ancient Greek colony. Sail to Cala dei Turchi with its sweeping sandy beach and towering cliffs in a picturesque cove, the place of ancient Arab pirate landings in Sicily.  The surrounding sea is incredibly transparent and offers superb grotto diving. Cocktails and dinner on board the yacht and a night transfer to reach Marina di Ragusa.

Day 6: Ragusa is listed with seven other cities in the Val di Noto as a UNESCO

RagusaWorld Heritage Site. The city is a thrill for history, art and architecture enthusiasts, with origins that can be traced back to the 2nd millennium B.C.  From the noteworthy collections of the Hyblean Archaeological Museum to fabulous Baroque and Rococo architecture, Ragusa is an extraordinary destination.

Day 7: Depart Ragusa for Siracusa via Portopalo di Capo Passero, due to its location a crossroads of civilization and culture for seafarers that have challenged the Mediterranean Sea.  Continue to Syracuse for a romantic dinner at a harbor restaurant in Ortigia.

Day 8: Syracuse, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an amazing repository of Greek history, culture, amphitheatres, architecture, and is mentioned in the Bible because the Apostle Paul spent time here. There are also wonderful museums, shops and restaurants offering far more to do than can be done in a day.

Day 9: Navigate to Taormina

where the yacht will moor in the picturesque Bay of Giardini Naxos, a popular seaside resort. The village of Taormina is perched on a cliff overlooking the warm waters of the Ionian Sea. Visit the ancient Greek theatre, remarkable for its state of preservation and location. Stroll among buildings and churches centuries old, lively bars, fine restaurants and antique shops, all of which contribute to Taormina’s allure. Taormina is approximately a forty-five minute drive away from Europe’s largest active volcano, Mount Etna.

Day 10: Depart for Messina, the third largest city on Sicily. Founded by Greek colonists in the 8th century BC, Messina is characterized by landmarks, museums, restaurants, shops, beautiful fountains and splendid squares at every turn.

Day 11: Embark upon the 35 mile passage

through the Straits of Messina to Capo di Milazzo, a thin peninsula that extends into the Tyrrhenian Sea. This is the site where several civilizations have settled beginning in the Neolithic age, and the site of Ulysses shipwreck and fated meeting with Polyphemus. The port of Milazzo is a departure point for ferries to the Aeolian Islands and Naples.

Day 12: The Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea and a very popular tourist destination. Here the weather will help decide which islands to visit and what adventures to pursue.  Visit the fascinating pumice quarry and plan for an excursion to Capofaro Malvasia Resort, situated under the lighthouse from which it takes its name, on Salina, the Aeolian Island with the greenest and most luxuriant vegetation. The Regaleali Estate is renowned for Tasca d’Almerita award winning wines and a restaurant offering typical Sicilian dishes prepared with estate grown produce.

Day 13: Depart the Aeolian Islands for the 55 mile journey to Cefalu. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board while docked in the Bay of Cefalu. The town is one of the major tourist attractions in the region with a young atmosphere and lively nightlife. The villages are attractive for artistic, cultural and historic reasons. Dinner can be enjoyed at a local restaurant on the sea.

Day 14: Time to return to Palermo and bid your captain and crew farewell. If possible plan to spend at least a day here in Sicily’s cultural, economic and tourist capital.  Visitors delight in the extraordinary restaurants, splendid Romanesque and Gothic architecture, palaces, museums and theatres and fine shopping.

Visit this link for information on chartering YUK. Here are informative links to view Sailing and Yachting Itineraries and  Worldwide Yachting Destinations.