Category Archives: SUP

The Seychelles

The Seychelles are an archipelago of the Indian Ocean. There are over 100 islands, some volcanic, but most of them coralline. The largest island, where the capital rises, is Mahé.

In The Seychelles there are two sites declared a World Heritage from UNESCO: Aldabra, the largest coral atoll in the world and the Vallee de Mai on Praslin, a very ancient forest believed to be the Garden of Eden.

The Seychelles are famous all over the world for the amazing coral reef, the incomparable landscapes, the crystalline blue water, the white soft sand, and the incredible nature.

This paradise on earth is inhabited by rare and unique wildlife, that every year bring tourists from all over the world. The sea and land turtles are one of the biggest attractions.

The Aldabrachelys is a giant turtle that you will be able to see on The Aldabra Island. These incredible animals survived the evolutionary changes, thanks to the geographical isolation that protected them for millennia from modern predators.

Males can be up to 120 centimeters and weigh around 250 kg. Females can reach a little over 90 centimeters in length and weigh around 160 kilos. They are among the most long-lived animals on the planet.

Besides these incredible land creatures, you will also be able to see sea turtles if you go diving or snorkeling.

There are five different species of marine turtles living in the sea around the Seychelles islands. Alphonse Island, Astove Atoll, Cosmoledo Atoll, and Poivre Atoll are the main destinations where is possible to see these ancient animals in their natural habitat.

These unique animals are used to getting used to seeing humans, for this reason, if you are lucky you will not only be able to see them but also swim with them.

This is only one of the many incredible experiences that this place can offer. The people, the food and the magical atmosphere of this island will make you experience an incredible journey. Seychelle is definitely a place to visit once in a lifetime.

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Island hopping hotspots in Croatia

The Dalmatian coast is renowned for its culture, history, crystal blue waters and partying. Most of the islands are only accessible by boat which has made the Dalmatian coast come alive! Use your yacht to stop off and explore the most off the beaten track country that Europe has to offer.

Aerial view of Brijuni islands, Croatia

Broker Alice, having sailed on Croatia’s shores and explored the local bars and restaurants shares her top island tips and some photographs of her time in Croatia.

Split

Most yacht charters will begin and end in (and around) the historic town of Split. The city is often mistaken as being Croatia’s capital and is adorned with every jewel of Croatian history. The city is the home of the Roman Palace of Diocletian, a labyrinth of underground chambers, churches, bell towers and amphitheaters.

It is easy to get lost in this maze and to explore one of the best-preserved, ancient cities in the world. You will find world-class seafood spots on every corner, performing opera in ancient squares and many Croatian bars to choose from. Avoid the commercial city center and get lost in the old town. There is also a fantastic walk, taking you to one of the oldest churches in the world.

Stari Grad

Located on the northern side of Hvar island, Stari Grad is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in the Adriatic Sea. This town is one of the oldest towns in Europe and hosts culture, history and hidden bars. The bay is well protected and profits from a wealth of history, museums, hiking exploring or simply heading to a beautiful beach. There are even ancient caves and tunnels to visit if you are feeling adventurous!

Hvar Town

Hvar is quite rightly renowned for being Croatia’s, glamorous party capital. This destination is often frequented by superyachts, celebrities, and UBER boats.  Upon arrival, you will most likely be greeted by the sound of music stereos on superyachts and beach clubs. Oddly, there are some of the most beautiful lavender fields to explore! If you are looking to catch the sunset with a mojito in hand, Hvar is the place for you. There are water taxis to take you back to your boat that run throughout the evening so don’t worry if you don’t want to use the dinghy!

Vis

Spend a quiet day in this beautiful, well-preserved fishing village, Vis. The ancient walls remain and the bay is beautiful for a candle lit seafood dinner with friends and family! This island is practically uninhabited and there’s a strong chic-Bohemian vibe. It is also a fantastic sailing distance away from Hvar.  Up until 1989 this destination was cut off from tourists, there are still not many locals! Definitely visit Blue cave before heading into the marina, it is an absolute must-see!

Dubrovnik

Further along the Dalmatian coast, prepare to fall in love with one of the oldest cities in the world. The ancient city walls around Dubrovnik protect this haven from anything coming in and from anything leaving. Throughout Croatia’s disturbed 20th century history, this city managed to keep every single charm and beauty. The shimmer of the Dalmatian waters and the ongoing orange roofed buildings make this location a must see before or after your Croatian yacht charter.

On land trip

When you are back on land be sure to visit the national park and go explore the local waterfalls. The Croatian waterfalls are not to be missed prior to or following your charter! Do get in touch with our team to secure your island hopping charter!

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SUP paddle boarding – HOW?!

SUP boarding, originating in Hawaii is a spin-off from surfboards. As opposed to the paddle-less sister, sup boarding offers a range of activities perfect for your summer and winter charters!

Standing Up Paddleboards have become available to the masses, with almost all bareboat yacht owners offering SUP boards as an extra to their charters why not add one onto yours? Most crewed yacht charters will now have SUP boards, along with other water toys. But did you know there are so many ways to use them?! See below!

The classic – SUP Boarding.

In the Mediterranean, you will often see people push their sups off the side of the yacht and go for a paddle – join them! Bend your knees and make sure you have the paddle the right way around! As you become an expert over the week start to use some technique and draw a ‘J’ in the water. By doing this you only need to paddle on the one side.

Yoga

Downward dog!

Get up early, enjoy the stunning scenery of Croatia, Greece, Italy, Caribbean, wherever you are and get out on the SUP board. Go through some simple yoga exercises to get you ready for the day. Early morning around 6 am is the most special time on the water – so get out and enjoy it.

Balancing

Back in my Flotilla days in Greece, SUP boards were used for almost everything. Something which was seriously good fun, with not only the kids but also the adults was ‘The Balance’. Very simple – how many people can you get standing. Not as easy as it sounds!

Sun Bathing

Sup boards come with a wrist strap, to save you floating away to one of the other islands attach it to your bathing ladders or your anchor chain. It’s super relaxing – until someone thinks its a great idea to jump off the yacht and splash you! Yes – even the adults sometimes cannot resist making someone scream out of shock!

Darling, lets go to the races!

In your stunning anchorage, be it Greece or the Caribbean some people on the yacht might need to expel some extra energy! Or to get the whole group up with a little bit of competitive sport! This is a great way to have some quality time together and make memories. Try racing around the yacht and timing each other – or attach a fender to a kedge anchor and use it as a racing buoy! Make sure you use the correct knot to attach the kedge!

Wobble wars

It is what it says on the tin! Get two people to stand up on the board and wobble the yacht until someone falls off! A simple and effective game that brings hours of fun on the water. Very popular with kids, but it has been known for some 68-year-olds to get involved.. perhaps the G ‘n’ T had something to do with it!

If you would like to know more about adding sups to your charters, or interesting in chartering with us this coming summer or winter do email here!

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