How to Have a More Sustainable Caribbean Yacht Charter

We are approaching one of our favorite times of the year – the Caribbean boating season! At Boatbookings, we love cruising the Caribbean, from the azure waters and abundant marine life to pristine beaches. But, like the rest of our planet, the islands are under threat.

The Caribbean is a fragile ecosystem suffering under the various challenges climate change brings. The Caribbean faces many threats, from rising sea levels and increasingly severe weather to ocean acidification. There are so many things we can do to leave less of an impact on our crewed charter catamarans.

Here are some ways you can help minimize your impact this Caribbean season:

Choose a Greener Yacht

The first step is to choose a more eco-friendly yacht from our greener crewed charter catamaran selection. At Boatbookings, we showcase more sustainable boats and look at incorporating catamaran builds, such as Sunreef and Silent Yachts, that champion sustainability. Crewed catamarans are better for our oceans and boast more advantages, such as better efficiency, shallow draft, expansive living areas, and comfortable cruising. The recently launched Sol is perfect for a greener Caribbean charter in the BVIs. This Sunreef 80 power eco has all the luxury facilities and amenities while having sustainability at the core, including vegan interiors and the solar and battery tech found within this Eco-Catamaran range.

An Eco-Conscious Itinerary 

There are a few factors that can help minimize your impact by choosing a more eco-conscious itinerary for a Caribbean charter. Overcrowding can have a negative impact on an ecosystem, so cruising destinations and anchorages that are less crowded will help. Opting for quieter spots also makes for a better experience. There are plenty of natural reserves and marine parks in the Caribbean, especially within the Bahamas, such as Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. Visiting these on your charter means you will help support the conservation efforts by abiding by the strict conservation regulations to protect the area.

Better Onboard Practices 

While the crew onboard will already implement sustainable practices, it is important that you are aware of these. The main culprit in the Caribbean is the use of single-use plastic, but most boats now have water filtration systems onboard so that you can reduce any plastic water bottles needed. While in the Caribbean, you will undoubtedly be in the water a lot, so it is important to wear reef-friendly suncream to protect from the toxicity of regular suncream when exploring reefs and marine life. Another way to ensure a greener charter is through the menus you enjoy; ask your chef to create menus that are prioritized with local and seasonal ingredients in mind, helping reduce the carbon footprint of your charter. Always look for opportunities within the Caribbean to incorporate responsibly sourced seafood and avoid overfished species, such as parrotfish that have been overfished in the Caribbean for decades. 

Support Conservation Efforts 

As well as choosing to visit marine parks and natural reserves while following the regulations as charter guests, you can also support by donating to local conservation organizations or participating in beach cleanups. By aligning your charter experience with minimizing your impact, you are contributing to the long-term health of our oceans. Before your charter, you can also use our carbon offsetting calculator.

Charter the Caribbean Today! 

These are just some steps you can take to ensure the Caribbean’s natural beauty lasts for generations to come. Contact the Boatbookings team to book a greener crewed charter catamaran to enjoy the Caribbean this coming season. 

Tie-up responsibly: How are marinas facilitating the green revolution?

Whether you are on a bareboat charter catamaran or a crewed charter catamaran, alongside fantastic anchorages, you will likely also want to tie up in a marina or two on your travels. 

But marinas significantly impact the environment. They cater to hundreds of boats coming and going, which can have various negative impacts. Firstly this movement can disrupt the local ecosystem if not managed appropriately, and visitors discharge multiple wastes and trash. Marinas are beginning to recognize that they can harm the environment without protocols and mindful practices in place, with now many keen to be greener. 

The two leading global initiatives are the Clean Marinas Program and The Blue Flag award, both setting standards for better eco-awareness and environmental preservation. 

At Boatbookings, we love hearing about innovative marina designs and sustainable practices being implemented. We take a look at some marinas around the world and how they are becoming greener: 

Rybovich, West Plam Beach

The Florida-based Rybovich marina provides berths for boats up to 100m. They meet the stringent criteria to gain its ‘clean marina’ status through various procedures. The comprehensive recycling center and drainage system that captures almost all the water in the shipyard, which is then filtered and reused both contribute to this. The marina was one of the first partners supporting the Water Revolution Foundation, working to enhance the sustainability credentials of the boating industry. Rybovich is part of the Safe Harbour marina group, which recently partnered with X-Shore to allow and increase easier access to fully electric boats in the USA. 

Blue Haven, Turks & Caicos

Recently reopened this year, the Blue Haven marina in Turks & Caicos Islands in the Caribbean has improved its green agenda while gaining the acclaimed Blue Flag award. The marina has increased ecological awareness and conservation commitments by utilizing eco-friendly cleaning and products at the facilities. Sustainable materials and renewable energy are also used throughout. It is part of the IGY group, which in 2021 also pledged to reduce and offset its carbon footprint across its network, helping future-proof its portfolio. 

Port Vauban, France 

Not only does the largest marina in Europe, Port Vauban in Antibes, have a Blue Flag award, but it was also the first in Alpes Maritime to join the French charter of the environment, striving for best practices in eco-preservation. The marina has gradually replaced fossil-fuel-powered vehicles with a fleet of electric golf carts and bikes. They also have robots collecting floating waste at various port locations and an extensive recycling system. 

Flisvos Marina, Greece

Flisvos Marina in Athens won the ‘Smart and Sustainable marina award, 2022’ at the international competition at the Monaco Yacht Club. The marina uses electricity from 100% renewable sources, keeps water quality at swimming level, and has many environmental campaigns. They also facilitate 16 recycling streams and use environmentally friendly building materials within its walls. Flisvos is part of the D Marin group, recognized for its unwavering commitment to ESG and environmental concerns. 

These are just some positive changes we have seen from innovative cleaning solutions, responsible waste channels, renewable energy, and environmental awareness. At Boatbookings, we hope these initiatives will be rolled out in all marinas soon. Contact us today to learn more about the greener catamaran charters we offer and what marinas you can visit! 

Charter Sustainbly: Spotlight on our new Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril

We are excited to announce an addition to our crewed charter catamarans. This Sunreef 50 Eco, Tiril, is perfect for those wanting a quiet luxury and a lighter carbon footprint on their charter. 

What makes Tiril more sustainable? 

This isn’t just any charter catamaran; the Sunreef 50 Eco range is electric, innovative, and eco-conscious in design and operation. 

One standout feature is that you can cruise silently with Tiril. The Sunreef is fitted with solar panels, and with energy produced by these and the hydro-generators and wind generators, it boasts silent cruising. The energy is stored in ultralight battery banks, custom-engineered for the Eco range. 

The onboard air conditioning system is revolutionary, designed to keep you cool while conserving energy efficiently and not requiring a noisy generator.

Where will Tiril be?

Tiril will be available for charter across French Polynesia. An incredible, once-in-a-lifetime destination, the islands have plenty to offer. From lush islands and pristine waters to an abundance of tropical marine life. Cruising them in a Sunreef is perfect due to the shallow draft – well suited to easily navigating the atolls and idyllic anchorages. 

Our team can help you with bespoke and tailor-made itineraries, from Moorea to The Tuamotus, helping you explore the best of Polynesia while minimizing your carbon footprint. 

What does Tiril offer?

The Sunreef Eco 50 has four double ensuite cabins and a bunkbed cabin accommodating up to 10 guests. The yacht is fully equipped with everything you will need on a charter and has been finished with eco-responsible materials and sustainable decor.

You cannot cruise French Polynesia without plenty of watersports gear. Trill has sustainable sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling equipment, paddle boards, and wing foiling equipment. 

Onboard Tiril, you will be well looked after by its crew. Captain Clement has a passion for sailing and sustainability. He has sailed extensively for years and the last few have been spent exploring French Polynesia. He has also created an eco-responsible cocoa trading company. Lili, the cook and host, is a native of the Tuamotus. She will show you the incredible warmth of the people and culture of the islands. She will also ensure the highest level of luxury and comfort onboard. 

Get onboard Tiril today! 

What are you waiting for? To enjoy a greener crewed charter catamaran on Tiril in French Polynesia, contact the Boatbookings team today. We are passionate about our oceans and the impact the boating industry is having; that’s why we make sure we champion these greener alternatives going forward. Make a difference today and book a more sustainable charter option. 

Lagoon Catamarans step up their sustainability efforts

Over the years, we have loved seeing the developments of the crewed charter catamarans we offer, especially from the builders who prioritize sustainability – such as Lagoon catamarans. 

The Lagoon brand of catamarans is part of the Beneteau Group and has been committed to preserving our oceans for years ever since the brand was launched in 1984. Here are three key initiatives that Lagoon is incorporating into its catamarans to make them more environmentally friendly. 

1. Greener propulsion systems 

Many clients that charter a Lagoon tend to sail in remote areas, so energy autonomy is crucial. Lagoon has focused on energy efficiency for some time, using solar panels and wind turbines, carefully selecting energy-efficient equipment and appliances while maintaining a high level of comfort onboard. 

In terms of propulsion, they are a pioneer in offering hybrid propulsion, as well as solar panels integrated into the coachroof, which is why we have been offering them with Boatbookings for many years. They have also invested heavily in studies to improve hull shapes and their models’ efficiency continually. 

2. Sustainable materials 

They are also built better! Lagoon now uses many more sustainable materials within its build process. For example, the wood is derived from FSC-certified forests, and the upholstery is made entirely from recycled materials. Plans for Lagoon include replacing all glass fiber with natural hemp fiber. They have also made substantial technological advances in resin and fiber, which looks promising for their future models – watch this space. 

3. Sustainability is high on their agenda 

Lagoon continuously innovates to improve, and sustainability is a key focus. Aside from enhanced energy efficiency and greener materials, Lagoon also includes ecological and biodegradable boat maintenance kits with each catamaran. 

Another commitment that Lagoon has made is to Anima Mundi, and their partnership is seeking to create the first complete database of plastic waste on the coastline with the assistance of Lagoon owners. Lagoon has also partnered with Escape to Nature. Their expert cinematographers are onboard a Lagoon 55 in remote areas of the Pacific to highlight the importance of preserving the underwater world. 

Lagoon takes a holistic approach. The Research and Development team is constantly researching construction methods to improve the sustainability of their yachts. They have also invested in their facilities, which are certified to high standards of environmental management and energy performance. This year the yard’s Bordeaux site has officially been certified in recognition of their efforts. 


How about a beautiful Lagoon for your next charter? While Lagoon catamarans are the epitome of comfort and performance in the catamaran world with their spacious interiors, stability, versatility, and sailing capabilities, they are also helping sailors minimize their impact. Contact one of the team at Boatbookings today to learn more about our crewed charter catamarans with Lagoon. 

Greener thrills: How can a yacht have more eco-friendly water toys?

On a crewed charter catamaran, you can have so much fun getting out on the ocean exploring new places, and spending quality time with loved ones. What else would you need? 

Water toys, of course! Watersports and water toys turn a simple day on the water into pure exhilaration. But when it comes to reducing the yacht’s environmental footprint, the toy box has a lot to answer for. Now, with increasingly innovative designs and green technology, a new wave of eco-friendly water toys is on the rise. 

Ones that are equally exciting but without the fossil fuel-guzzling engines and unsustainable materials.

We take a look at these more eco-friendly water toys:

Powered by humans 

Put aside the fuel and diesel needed for fun, and harness the energy you have in yourself! There are so many toys powered by humans, whether paddleboarding or kayaking. These toys offer a fresh alternative to traditional motorized options. They allow you to immerse yourself fully into nature, contribute to a greener playtime, and give you a workout on the side! 

Watts of fun 

Electric is the future! And what’s not to like about virtually silent, emission-free fun? Many innovative electric water toys, such as surfboards, jet skis, and inflatable boats, combine cutting-edge technology with sustainability. By using electric motors, they produce zero emissions and reduce the impact in terms of noise and vibrations. These toys give a thrilling ride without the guilt of fuel. 

If your toys do have to run on fuel, make sure they use 4-stroke, not 2-stroke engines. Without going into the details, 2-stroke engines are incredibly pollutive. A single two-stroke engine produces pollution equivalent to that of 30 to 50 four-stroke automobiles because they mix oil and gas and don’t burn them very efficiently.

Foiling alternatives 

Water toys with foiling technology have taken water-based adventures to the next level. Foiling toys such as hydrofoil surfboards, kite foils, and sailboats use specialized wings or foils beneath the surface to lift them above the waves, enabling the user to glide effortlessly over the ocean. 

Toys made better 

A long-standing issue with many of the current toys on the market is the materials, but today many manufacturers now consider the life cycle of a product and prioritize sustainable materials and production methods. This helps to reduce the carbon footprint and minimizes waste. Many are now made from recycled plastics or biodegradable materials – you can even get golf balls made of fish food! 

We all know that the yachting community must set a path toward sustainability and a circular economy to survive and for the planet’s future. While significant emphasis is being put on the yacht to be more sustainable, it also must extend to everything that comes with it – including the tenders and toys! 

Get onboard with eco-friendly water toys today!

Contact one of the Boatbookings team to learn about the more environmentally crewed charter catamarans and the watersports fun you can have.