Specializing in Caribbean charters, here are our top 5 reasons to charter a yacht and why the British Virgin Islands is officially one of the best places in the world to charter for your 2020 holiday season!
Escape the bleak mid-winter and spend Christmas 2020 island hopping between the white sand beaches of the British Virgin Islands. The world’s best sailing conditions, island hopping, world-class scuba diving grounds, and a Christmas day conch meal. All of this plus an unforgettable New Year’s Eve makes the British Virgin Islands the only place to charter a yacht this Christmas!!
Christmas day on the yacht
Whether you’re a seasoned yachtie or sailing around the best sailing grounds of the Caribbean is something you’ve always dreamt of, a yacht charter in the BVI is guaranteed to make 2020 your best Christmas yet.
Although you’ll be on a yacht in the Caribbean, don’t worry there’s still plenty of decorations to make you feel just at home. Expect to see masts with fairy lights going to the top, red and white bikinis and palm Christmas trees!
Spend this Christmas walking around the white sand-beaches of Anegada and join in the local celebrations! Chose from having your own personal crew onboard to sailing solo around the many BVI white-sand beached islands.
New years eve at Foxy’s
Be sure to head to the island of Jost Van Dyke to bring in the New Year. Foxy’s on the island is renowned as being one of the top 5 parties in the world on New Year’s Eve.
Instead of celebrating the ‘New Year’, this bar celebrates the ‘Old Year’s Night’, making this iconic location different from every other New Year Party on the globe.
Hop off your boat and enjoy being in one of the best places in the world this New Year. Be sure to catch the theme before deciding on your outfits!
December diving
Switch the traditional family board games on Christmas day for a scuba diving lesson! Scuba dives are an extremely popular Christmas day activity and really make it a Christmas day to remember.
The BVI waters surrounding the islands of Norman Island are renowned for being extremely clear during the months of December and January. The Caribbean waters are full of different corals, turtles, shipwrecks and thousands of different species of fish.
Surprise your loved ones with a diving course and give the gift of the ocean this Christmas!
A Caribbean Christmas lunch
Eat like a local and celebrate the festivities with a freshly grilled lobster or conch! Head over to the Bitter End Yacht Club in Virgin Gorda for your Christmas lunch, be sure to book early this year as most restaurants serving local Caribbean Christmas delicacies tend to get booked up very quickly.
Unrivalled weather conditions
The trade winds blowing across the islands of the BVI offer a consistent breeze, ideal for sailing and for keeping slightly cool during this period. Christmas is without a doubt one of the best times of year to visit the BVI due to long, sunny days with ocean breezes coming through in the afternoon and slightly cooler evenings.
The BVI is known for ‘line of sight’ sailing and protected bays for anchorages and sailing. Unlike other locations in the Caribbean, the waters in the BVI are usually a lot calmer than many other locations.
Aftermath of Irma
Despite the saddening damage, caused by hurricane IRMA in 2017, the BVI’s are being cared for and maintained. The process of rebuilding infrastructure has been a work in progress since the hurricane struck, however, the BVI is back on track and the boat standards and sailing grounds are as popular as ever.
Don’t let the damage caused in 2017 put you off from a yacht charter in the BVI this Christmas – the BVI is up and running. For current information, we please see our “what is open in the BVI after Irma” page, which is updated regularly.
Give Santa a change from the chimney and let him slide down your mast this Christmas! Get in touch today!
We all know the effects of what staying indoors can do to our wellbeing. From a young age, I was always told that the fresh, sea air was a healer for not only the body but also for the soul. It’s safe to say that a large majority of our clients are ‘outdoorsy’ people, and love being at one with nature. With lockdowns, travel restrictions and our daily lives interrupted, it can be hard to think that life was once full of discovery and beauty.
We say, don’t worry; the seas will just be as blue as they were before, the south of France rosé wine will taste just as refreshing at golden hour and the sun will still rise after this pandemic runs its course.
For some gentle weekend or evening reading, you can explore these incredible places through our handwritten itineraries. Whether you are are doing some homework for your 2021 expedition, or just want to escape reality for 10 minutes: we have an itinerary that suits you. We recommend making a hot cup of tea (or coffee), snuggling up on the sofa and let your mind wander to a sailing destination of your choice.
It seems prudent to list the Italian Amalfi Coast itinerary below – with all the heartbreaking news coming from our most beloved sailing countries this itinerary is a tribute to the country we know and love. ITALY, THIS ONE IS FOR YOU.
Day 1 – Naples
Lgbt sailing boat tour
Embark your Amalfi Coast catamaran charter in Castellamare di Stabia. Depending on your time of embarkation, you can either sail towards the city of Naples for a fun-filled night exploring the bustling Via Chaia. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the beautiful city of Naples, try some fantastic pizza and enjoy the stunning views of Vesuvius that loom over the city.
Day 2: Procida to Ischia
Today you will sail to the island of Ischia, known for its lush and varied landscapes and being the largest island in the Bay of Naples. You can visit the thermal springs at Negombo Bay or close to Ischia Sant’Angelo. These magical wellness centres have been used to promote health for millennia. One of our Brokers favourite anchorages is next to the Aragonese castle, the original protection of the island that rises out of the sea.
There are also many beautiful beaches that you can anchor your Amalfi Coast crewed catamaran off for a day of snorkelling and playing with the water toys. In the evening, be sure to try the local wines Biancolella and the red Pere’e palumno along with a selection of wonderful fresh fish. Our favourite high-end restaurant on the island is Indaco in the village of Ischia Lacco Ameno. This Michelin starred restaurant is renowned for their modern take on Italian classics, and you will enjoy waterside dining with spectacular views.
Day 3 and 4: Ischia and Capri
These are the days that you’ve always been dreaming about! Set sail from Ischia Sant’Angelo to Capri, which is around 20 nautical miles and will take approximately three hours. Your first stop will be anchoring off the north side of the island, where we would recommend a quick stop at the magical Blue Grotto. This is on everyone’s bucket list and you will soon realise why. The Blue Grotto is ideally located next to our most recommended lunch spot on the island, Il Riccio Capri.
After lunch, explore the surrounding caves on the south-east coastline, before anchoring on the south side of the island next to the magical Faraglioni rock formation. This is the most iconic bay on the Amalfi Coast and the perfect place to spend the evening at anchor.
We’d really recommend a romantic dinner on board, taking in the spectacular sunset and endless ocean views. If you want to go ashore to explore the island, you cannot beat sitting in Capri’s Piazetta for your Aperol Spritz before having dinner in one of the many excellent gastronomic restaurants. Our Brokers recommend sitting on the terrace of Villa Verde and sampling their excellent Squid, fresh fish and the local Fallanghina white wine. If you’re in the mood to dance the night away, you have to try Anema e Core for a truly authentic and unforgettable night on Capri.
Day 5: Capri to Nerano, Positano
Leaving the beautiful island of Capri, you will sail towards Nerano for your first glance of the magical Amalfi Coast. Marina del Cantone in Nerano is a popular holiday destination dating back to the time of the Ancient Romans. Emperor Caesar loved it and we know you will too!
After a fun morning enjoying the calm waters, snorkelling and paddleboarding, it must be time for lunch! Conca del Sogno is the most popular restaurant and for good reason – it’s delicious! There are some excellent restaurants to try in Nerano and if you’re looking for something extra special, Quattro Passi cannot be missed.
If you decide to take a mooring buoy overnight in Nerano, you have to treat yourself to dinner at Quattro Passi. If you decide to cruise down to Positano for the evening, we don’t blame you! Positano is the gem of the coastline and renowned for being a world heritage site with a buzzing atmosphere. Positano is the busiest and most popular town on the Amalfi Coast, so expect crowds in July and August, but it’s still well worth a visit. With a plethora of restaurants to try, Da Vincenzo is renowned for offering quality authentic Italian cuisine, whilst La Sponda at Le Sirenuse Hotel is extra special. Party the night away at Music on the Rocks for an unforgettable end to your time in Positano.
Day 6. Amalfi Coast
Good morning from Positano, and what a sight she is! Enjoy the tranquillity and calm of the morning as you sip your morning espresso and took into your favourite cornetti. When you’re ready, set sail down the Amalfi Coast towards Conca dei Marini, one of the unsung heroes of the area. This is the perfect place to swim before enjoying lunch at anchor.
We recommend heading straight to Amalfi to make sure you arrive in time for a place in the small marina. Amalfi is one of the only ports on the Amalfi Coast and is by far the nicest, so don’t miss out. Spend the afternoon ambling down the quaint streets sampling the famous Gelato, or perhaps a Limoncello or two! The famous Italian liquor is made here using produce from the neighbouring hillside, so it would be rude not to sample! For the active charter guests, you can embark on the Hike of the Gods to take in the spectacular coastal views. Don’t forget your camera!
Head back to your crewed catamaran and get ready for dinner. If you would like to eat ashore, there is no better restaurant than Eolo Restaurant in Amalfi, which balances authenticity with a creative flair for a mouthwatering spectacle. Mooring in Amalfi also gives you the opportunity to head up to the mountain town of Ravello, where you could enjoy drinks on the terrace of the Belmond Hotel Caruso and a spectacular dinner. If you’re in the mood for dancing, you have to try the popular Africana club, which is one of the most iconic nightclubs in Italy.
Day 7: Amalfi to Sorrento
Your final day onboard will give you the opportunity to sail along the length of the Amalfi Coast, so make sure you have your camera ready! You will sail past Positano to the beautiful Li Galli islands for your last lunch onboard. Whether you choose to have a Caprese Salad, Paccheri with Swordfish or a whole baked Sea Bream, we know you will have been blown away by the food onboard this week. In the afternoon, sail to the town of Sorrento with its stunning architecture, welcoming vibe and wonderful restaurants.
From Marina Piccola, walk to the smaller port of Marina Grande where you will discover some wonderful cafes and bars. Piazza Tasso is the place to spend your evening. With the street closed off to cars, Piazza Tasso is perfect for people watching and your favourite Aperitivo. Sorrento is home to some wonderful restaurants and there is nowhere better than Il Buco, which is a firm favourite amongst our clients. Terrazza Bosquet in Sorrento is another popular choice; wherever you decide to go, you will definitely have a fantastic final meal with your friends and family.
Day 8: Disembark in Sorrento
Today, say goodbye to your wonderful crew and catamaran and head back to the airport. If you have time before your flight, we would recommend stopping in at Pompeii on the way to the airport to see the impressive ruins. Your Boatbookings Broker can organise a private tour with an English speaking guide, who will bring this ancient city back to life! We know that you will have loved your time on the Amalfi Coast and you will tell all your friends to book for next summer!
There’s a special place in my heart for the Ionian. I have lived, sailed, swam, and grew as a person there. From Lefkas to Kefalonia, these islands are what I called home onboard a 2015, 37ft Bavaria called PARIS.
She may not look like much, but this girl got us through some bad weather, sticky situations, and above all, our refuge.
Like many sailors who have sailed in one particular area, you tend to have your favourite anchorages – your ‘go-to’ place which is versatile and enjoyed by many a ‘crowd-pleaser’ if you will! Below I talk about my top three anchorages and why you should incorporate them in your itinerary.
Number 1. KIONI – Ithaki Island.
The pretty bay and harbour of Kioni on the small island of Ithaki.
Check out our 7-day bareboat sailing itinerary here!
Why?
Kioni, in my opinion, has the cleanest water due to how quiet it is. In the evenings you MUST go swimming! It’s absolutely teeming with phosphorescent algae which sparkle when disturbed.
You can, more often than not, find a place to drop anchor and tie off to a rock, and if there’s space, on the town quay.
The town is quaint, with a few stunning restaurants located along the harbour wall and up in the foothills overlooking the bay.
Fantastic holding, and normally fairly quiet.
Where?
Kioni pin drop.
Kioni is located on the northeastern tip, protected from the northwesterly prevailing winds. Many sailors tend to hot-foot it down to (big) Vathy located further south which subsequently means that Kioni is fairly quiet, even during high season.
In this lovely town, the time has stopped in the previous century
When?
This anchorage is best enjoyed overnight. It provides protection from the prevailing NW winds and is best viewed early morning!
Anything to watch out for?
A common phenomenon happens pretty much everywhere in the Ionian and that is the Katabatic winds. Most of the tiny anchorages in the Ionian are hidden and tucked away between hills. As the air cools, and the land is warm, it pushed air and funnels between the hills. From around 5:30 PM onwards it can get pretty breezy. It normally settles by about 7:30/8 pm so make sure your anchor is well dug before heading off for your fresh greek dinner!
Number 2. Foki Bay – Kephalonia.
Yes, before you ask it really is called that – and it is truly stunning.
White yacht moored in the bay of Foki beach with cypress trees in background, Fiskardo, Cefalonia, Ionian, Greece.
Why?
The Trees. I nicknamed this bay ‘Little Canada’ because of the Cypress trees that almost fall into the water.
The caves. Accessable by tender or simply swim in! Turn your outboard off just as you enter the caves as people swim in and out of them. The Caves were used for mining in the ’50s and still remain now. Don’t worry if you’re scared of small spaces as these caves are absolutely massive. They are so big you could easily fit a two-story house in them! Take a torch and enclosed shoes (don’t wear flipflops as some bits are quite steep).
The beach. Sometimes while sailing around you just need some time on a beach! Well, this bay has one. In the top right-hand corner is an adorable beach with a quaint taverna serving the best drinks!
You can walk into Fiskardo for some shopping, it’s around 1.5-2km walk.
The water is CRYSTAL clear!
Where?
Foki bay is based on the northeastern tip of Kephelonia, a stone’s throw (or 10-minute tender ride) into the famous Fiskardo, boasting up-market restaurants and beautiful jewellery shops.
When?
This is a perfect lunch spot, or evening stopover (if the winds are favourable). Great holding for lunchtime with the most stunning scenery to enjoy your freshly prepared lunch!
Foki Fiskardo with crystal clear and transparent water, Kefalonia, Ionian Islands, Greece.
Anything to watch out for?
In the high season time, the beach is buoyed off to protect the swimmers, make sure you don’t get caught up in there. Try and head as far in towards the beach as possible as most of the superyachts take the entrance area as its deeper. This will also protect you from the swell that is created from the passing ferries.
Number 3. One house bay – Atokos
Beautiful bay in Ionian sea, called One house bay.
Why?
The pictures speak for its self. One House Bay, characterised by the one house which sits by its self in the foothills.
The crystal blue water and picturesque beach are just some of the reasons you should stop over here!
Gorgeous scenery.
Deep blue water.
Excellent walking.
Where?
One House Bay is on the Southeastern corner of Atoko Island, East of Ithica island. The island is only home to goats, which the shepherd attends to every 4th day.
When?
A perfect lunch spot when travelling from the eastern islands to the western islands. If the winds are favourable, you can possibly stay here overnight, please bear in mind it offers little to no protection.
Getting first-hand knowledge about the area is key to creating a memorable charter. I have traveled extensively throughout Greece and the Meditterenian to visit destinations to provide you with the best recommendations and advice. Looking to explore the Southern Ionian? Speak with Alice today at [email protected]!
2 top Crewed Catamarans in the Exumas/Nassau/area in the Bahamas that have not been affected by Dorian.
We all witnessed with grief the unimaginable destruction brought upon Great Abaco and Grand Bahama Islands by hurricane Dorian and we pray for the fast and smooth recovery of the stricken areas.
Regardless, the Bahamas remains one of our most popular year-long yachting destinations: Dorian only affected the above-mentioned islands but the rest of the islands is as beautiful as always.
In any case, the majority of charter vessels have always been based in the Nassau cruising area. The Exumas combine a protected sailing area with magic sandy beaches, turquoise waters and high temperatures all year long. Some of the most popular charter vessels in Nassau and the Exumas are crewed catamarans
AMURA II
AMURA II is a lovely Lagoon 560, with a professional crew of 2 (captain and hostess/chef). Based all year long in Nassau, AMURA II will also consider one-way charters starting Nassau and finishing in the Exumas; this will allow you more time in order to explore the islands!
SEA SENOR
Available out of Nassau for both day charters as well as for longer period cruises is SEA SENOR! Excellent catamaran with a very experienced crew, ideal for short escapes out of Nassau! Feel free to contact now our expert broker team and start planning your next crewed catamaran charter in the Bahamas.
With the terrible misfortune, it seems fitting that we have a yacht called SILVER LINING. Berthed in the Exumas, she is an excellent alternative to chartering in the Abacos.
The stunning SILVER LINING is still available for Thanksgiving in Nassau to cruise the Exumas. Although Hurricane Dorian caused devastation in the Northern Islands of the Bahamas, there are still hundreds of untouched islands in the Cays. The Exumas is a 100 mile stretch of stunning coastline and turquoise waters where you can enjoy beautiful anchorages and wonderful fresh food.
Must see
The Tropic of Cancer beach, also known as Pelican beach is a must-see on Little Exuma. The sand is blindingly white, not just lightly coloured as many ‘white beaches’ are described. The sand itself radiates the sunlight that bathes it to create a blaze of light unique to this beach. If ever there was a picture postcard, then this beach truly is it:
Swimming Pigs!
Big Major’s Cay is home to the mystifying swimming pigs! It is widely believed that the reason the pigs swim in this area is down to their intelligence. Pigs are extremely intelligent, and they know tourists will come and feed them, hence why they will always swim out to you!
Stocking Island amongst other islands in the Exumas is home to Stromatolites, the oldest known macro-fossils on earth. They hold the biological activity of thousands of years.
Wildlife and nature
If you are a lover of marine life and nesting sea birds, then Moria Harbour Cay National Park is a must-see. Sand dunes, beaches, mangroves and seagrass all located between Great and Little Exuma. This area covers 13,440 acres!
The Yacht!
SILVER LINING is the perfect yacht to take you around the Bahamian paradise with a great crew on board, Captain Peter and chef/stewardess Ginny are a highly proactive team who are keen to ensure a memorable experience for their clients.
She offers 3 ensuite cabins, perfect for a family or group of friends. A well presented enclosed flybridge with a large dining table. The cockpit has easy access to the sea for fishing and swimming. Huge sunbathing area on the bow.
BBQ grill to cook the catch of the day! A great selection of water toys including wave runner, wakeboard, skis, SUP, airhead inflatable tube, 2 floating islands, snorkelling gear, fishing gear and beach set up with chairs. For an additional cost, clients can hire the 36ft Aquila power cat which also comes with a crew member giving a higher level of service on board.
Get on contact with us today to see how you can enjoy SILVER LINING on your Thanksgiving holiday.
