View 154′ OHANA at FLIBS: The Qintessential Family Charter Yacht

In Hawaiian Ohana means family, and family means no-one gets left behind or forgotten. A family charter onboard OHANA provides an unforgettable experience that will thrill guests of all ages.

OHANA is a superbly elegant yacht with the comfort and charm of a Cape Cod seaside estate. This 154-foot superyacht of contemporary classical style was designed by the renowned Donald Starkey and built by Admiral Marine Works, Inc. OHANA is an ideal yacht for charter families, equipped with an amazing array of water toys and a very child friendly crew.

Enter the main deck lounge onboard OHANA and feel immediately relaxed. Sumptuous creamy carpeting and upholstery offset by rich wood paneling and nautical works of art inspire the seafaring spirit. A surround of panoramic windows allows for magnificent views and flood interiors with daylight.

Aft of the dining room OHANA has an elegant veranda deck and entertainment center. Here an excellent view out of the main aft deck through double glass doors further expands the sense of space. This is an ideal room for children and games, with easy access to water sports.

The subtle nautical theme throughout OHANA transitions with a more casual attitude in the upper lounge, where plush, overstuffed furniture beckons repose. Aft, double stainless steel doors access the protected dining deck on OHANA, with ample seating for 12 guests.

The full beam master compartment on OHANA is at once voluminous and cozy, decorated in a casual cottage style, it includes a lounge and office area and enchanting his and hers facilities. Two guest cabins are furnished with queen beds and two with twin beds, each with stunning ensuite bathrooms. Combining two adjacent staterooms, an excellent option for families with small children, can configure VIP accommodations. All staterooms are equipped with their own safes, entertainment centers and computer network access. OHANA has many notable features, including a handsome circular staircase to provide access from the sundeck to the lower decks and a sundeck staircase with accesses through all decks. The sundeck features a six person Jacuzzi with sun lounging pads and a BBQ grill, with circular settees surrounding teak cocktail tables. An optional tent awning is available for guests who prefer shade.

OHANA has a well-deserved reputation as being a fun charter yacht. The near endless array of watertoys includes four waverunners and a thrilling waterslide. The highly skilled crew of 10 is adept at pampering charter guests of all ages, and take great pleasure in unloading the grand toy chest for a day of excitement above or below the waterline.

Photo Credits: Marc Paris

Be sure to view these magnificent charter yachts at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 27-31:

OHANA is available for viewing at the Hall of Fame Face Dock, Slip 41.

NEWVIDA 160′ Delta Marine, Hall of Fame Face Dock – Slip 43

MR. TERRIBLE 154′ Delta, Hall of Fame Face Dock – Slip 40

SEA LOAFERS III 112′ Westport, Hall of Fame Face Dock – Slip 39a

Here is a useful link for further information on Super Yacht and Luxury Yacht Charter.

No Matter What the Weather It’s an Awesome Day for PICNIC

PICNIC is a luxury yacht with presence. Exterior styling with dark tapered windows gives this yacht a head turning command at every port. PICNIC will make her debut at the Florida International Boat Show, Oct. 27 to Oct. 31, 2011, maneuvering into position as a top yacht on the charter circuit.

The salon and dining area on board PICNIC is spacious and serene. Elegant and understated, contemporary furnishings work as perfectly for casual conversation and cocktails as for formal five course dining. Guests have the option of al fresco meals on the aft deck or relishing the beach house feel of banquette seating around the ample table on the flybridge.

Master on deck Stateroom

PICNIC is a custom Monte Fino 100, stylishly appointed with charming attention to detail. Playful neon and indirect lighting adds a dash of fun, while fine china and superb linens please charter clientele who expect the highest standards of quality.

PICNIC has a delightful array of

Jet tender and Jet Ski

water toys to please all guests, whether they enjoy the thrill of Seabobs or the enchantment of diving below the depths, water skis or Jet skis, the onboard toy chest will not disappoint.

PICNIC will be located at the Hargrave/Monte Fino display at Las Olas docks, A Dock – Slip 7, during the Fort Lauderdale show.

Follow this link for additional information on PICNIC.

Find useful information here about Caribbean Yacht Charter.

Southern Belize: A Four-Day Itinerary of Discovery in the Spectacular Belize Barrier Reef

The crew on board power catamaran Aventure 46 has years of experience exploring southern Belize above and below the water line. These local experts have devised an itinerary to thrill divers, snorkelers and fishing enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.

Day one: Arrive in Placencia, an unassuming tropical village rumored to have been founded by 17th century English pirates. Stroll down the one-mile concrete sidewalk, the main street for Placencia Village, to explore village accommodations, restaurants, bars, and gift shops, nestled under swaying palms among wooden residences built on stilts. You will share the distinction of walking down the narrowest street in the world, according to the “Guinness Book of World Records.”

From Placencia cruise to South Water Caye Marine Reserve, a spectacular diving, snorkeling and fishing site located off the shores of a picturesque coral island of sparkling white sand beaches lined with coconut palms. The reserve, also a World Heritage Site, features shallow coral reefs and coral mounds that extend outside of the barrier reef to the vertical walled drop off. Large marine life including sharks, turtles and eagle rays, as well as a kaleidoscope of inquisitive smaller fish, abound in these crystal clear waters. This is an idyllic anchorage for a serene night.

Day two: Gladden Split and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve is located on the central area of the Barrier Reef and is notably the best-developed continuous reef due to its elevation, excellent water quality and modified waves. The Silk Cayes are comprised of three very small islands, North Silk, Middle Silk and South Silk. Loggerhead turtles, rays and nurse sharks frequent this area and the beaches on these islands are breathtaking. If the weather permits, spend the night at these islands.

Day three: Ranguana Caye offers world class diving and offshore fishing that is second to none. Troll for Wahoo and King Mackerel at the drop off or dive along the walls where tube sponges stretch up to the height of a man. Moving along the wall at 55 feet is a magical drift dive with the wall to one side and the coral to the other. Spend time on the beach fishing for bonefish or snorkeling just offshore.

Day four: Cruise to Glovers Reef Atoll, the southernmost of Belize’s offshore atolls, it is considered to be one of the richest tropical marine environments in the entire Caribbean Sea. John Glover, its namesake pirate, used these remote islands and reefs as a base to raid Spanish merchant ships. The site was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1996 and is renowned for the clarity of the water and profusion of marine life. This area is a superb place to anchor overnight.

A yacht charter in Belize is sure to spoil guests with incredible underwater visibility, teaming marine life and breathtaking beauty. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of one of the largest coral reef systems in the world and deserves prominent ranking on the bucket list of every snorkel, dive and fishing enthusiast. The crew of the Aventure 46 cordially invites guests onboard for the experience of a lifetime.

Please follow this helpful link to view additional destination information and an enticing array of Belize Charter Yachts.

Secrets of Southern Italy: One-Week Charter On The Magnificent Cilento Coast

The Cilento Coast is a pristine region of spectacular beauty that remains rugged and wild due to its inaccessibility. Soaring rock cliffs descend to white sand beaches concealing tranquil bays of crystal clear water. The coast is dotted with picturesque towns to enjoy local culture, shops, restaurants, hiking trails and renowned historical sites. Along the coast harbors are safe and dockage is very reasonable. This itinerary is courtesy of charter yachts Feeling, Emotion, Passion and Smile, names that perfectly reflect these surroundings.

Day 1: Salerno. Arrive in Salerno for check-in at the marina, just a short walk from the downtown area. Salerno is considered the main urban center close to the Amalfi Coast on the Tyrrhenian Sea. This rich and culturally diverse city includes archeological sites, a medieval sector, and a 19th-century district. There are numerous noteworthy points of interest including churches, museums, palaces and castles.

Day 2: Depart Salerno to Agropoli.

This bustling port town includes a well-preserved old town as well as inviting retail and fine restaurants. The nearby archaeological site of Paestum has temples of Neptune and Ceres and the Basilica, which are adjacent to the National Museum. For cheese connoisseurs the buffalo mozzarella farm is worth a visit. The fine beaches of Trentova Bay contribute to make Agropoli a popular seaside resort.

Day 3: Depart Agropoli to Acciaroli. A leisurely sail takes you to the picturesque bay of Ogliastro. Here a popular hiking trail takes visitors past medieval structures and through pristine forest. It is possible to spend the night or continue to Acciaroli, a town that is a part of the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park.  Ernest Hemingway relished his stays here during his visits to Italy.

Day 4: Acciaroli to Capo Palinuro. Spend the night in Marina di Camerota, a quaint, scenic town with many of the alleys and streets of the old fisherman’s village still intact. The beautiful seafront and harbor has complete facilities, seaside activities, fantastic beaches and seabeds to explore. The town is also noted for its paleontological caves with human fossils. One of these caves, located in the Lentiscella zone, is a museum.

Day 5: Marina di Camerota to Infreschi Bay. This is a beautiful natural harbor with crystal clear waters located in the extreme south of the Gulf of Policastro. Rocky cliffs give way to white sands and a dazling sea in hues from turquoise to emerald. The sandy, sloping sea floor is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. On shore, hiking trails wind through gorse, rosemary, carob trees and prickly pears. In the afternoon sail to the picture postcard village of Scario. This is considered by many to be the most charming and authentic village along the Cilento Coast.

Day 6: Scario to Palinuro Cape. An absolute must on the southern side of Palinuro Cape is breathtaking Buondormire Bay. Located between steep cliffs and lush vegetation, this wilderness is accessible only by boat or a long walk that ends with 500 steps leading down to the sea. It is possible to spend the night here or in Palinuro harbor.

Day 7: Palinuro Cape to Salerno. Enjoy breathtaking views while you sail northward with a stop around Punta Licosa for swimming.

Day 8: Disembark in Salerno. Salerno is a vibrant urban center with plenty to see and do. In addition to shops and restaurants, museums and churches, the famous sites of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius are an easy commute.

A charter on the Cilento Coast offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the culture, history and natural wonders of a unique and awe-inspiring region. This charter itinerary is available for bareboat and crewed charter and may be modified for a one-way charter from Salerno to Tropea, 85 miles from Marina di Camerota, without delivery charge.

Here is a link to comprehensive information on Yacht Charter in Italy and destination highlights on the Amalfi Coast.

Celebrate 2011 AquaticAfrolic, Oct 24-Nov 2: Reserve Now for the Fantasy Fest Flotilla through the Fantastic Florida Keys

Local yacht managers in South Florida enthusiastically present the first annual Fantasy Fest Flotilla, featuring all-inclusive crewed luxury charter yachts. En route to Fantasy Fest, Key West`s infamous annual island extravaganza, enjoy world-class diving, snorkeling, fishing, dining and extreme partying in the spectacular Florida Keys.

Monday, October 24: Coconut Grove, Miami – Key Largo
Embark from Coconut Grove, the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood of Miami, Florida, and a charming urban center of upscale restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Cruise around Biscayne Bay with a stop to swim and snorkel on the reef before sailing down Hawkes Channel to spend the night in Key Largo.

Tuesday, October 25: Key Largo – Marathon
Key Largo is the first island of the Florida Keys. The 1948 film Key Largo, starring Humphrey Bogart, brought early notoriety to the island. A popular beach bar today, the Caribbean Club provided the locale for a number of the movie’s scenes. The vessel of another Bogart American movie epic, The African Queen, is docked at the Key Largo Marina. Cruise down Hawkes Channel under sail to Duck Key to anchor for the night.

Wednesday, October 26: Marathon
Depart Duck Key for the leisurely two-hour sail to Sombrero Key Light, an excellent spot for snorkelers and divers to explore fantastic living coral reefs teeming with fish. Fishing enthusiasts will want to sail just south of the tower in the Gulf Stream to fight Mahi, Spanish mackerel, and other game fish. In the evening anchor off Boot Key Channel or spend the night at Burdine’s Waterfront or Marathon Marina and enjoy the vibrant nightlife onshore.

Thursday, October 27: Marathon – Little Palm Island Resort and Spa
Boot Key Harbor to Looe Key is a scenic half-day sail. Here the reef provides spectacular snorkeling and diving for an unforgettable afternoon. In the evening sail into the charming marina at Little Palm Island Resort and Spa. This private island is the posh retreat of presidents, high profile celebrities and savvy travelers. Dine on a terrace perched above the beach where key deer and songbirds visit, or at tables strewn along the beach. Sometimes, the revelry goes on all night by a roaring bonfire on the beach.

Friday, October 28: Little Palm Island – Key West
Depart Palm Island and arrive in Key West in the afternoon with plenty of time for exploring, shopping and sight seeing. This historic city is a fascinating crossroads of diversified cultures and lifestyles that coexist with colorful harmony.

Saturday October 29: Key West
Join in the fun of Fantasy Fest. Cool down at the Garden of Eden, clothing optional rooftop bar, dance at the Vampire Ball, which takes place at the spine tingling Haunting of Fort Taylor, watch the pet masquerade parade, join the celebrity look alike contest or any of dozens of other scheduled events that culminate with the grand parade down Duval Street followed by an all night party throughout downtown.

Sunday, October 30: Key West
Enjoy a perfectly prepared Bloody Mary on deck before setting off for a meander through the recovering town. Stroll, bike or rent a scooter to explore the narrow streets dotted with small yet elite restaurants, artisan shops tucked in entryways, signature architecture and subtropical flora and fauna.

Monday, October 31: Key West – Bahia Honda
This morning say farewell to Key West and sail up Hawkes Channel to an anchorage at Bahia Honda State Park. Swim or snorkel in the balmy water or dinghy ashore to hike one of the nature trails, learn about Florida wildlife, or simply relax in the evening sun.

Tuesday, November 1: Bahia Honda – Key Largo
Depart Bahia Honda for nearby Key Largo, which features a maritime museum, eco-tours, dolphin encounter programs, nature trails and a rehabilitation center for wild birds. Spend the last night aboard surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the upper Florida Keys.

Wednesday, November 2: Key Largo – Coconut Grove, Miami
A pleasant day sail up Hawkes Channel and into Biscayne Bay brings you back to Bayshore Landing near Dinner Key. Back in the city of Miami, take the opportunity to see what this thriving multi-cultural urban center has to offer, from arts and entertainment to international cuisine. Sit at a sidewalk cafe and savor the enjoyable memories of a superb experience. Then take time to ponder where you would like your next yachting adventure to begin.

This ten-day sailing itinerary is available on board the Beneteau 46 or the Hunter 41 DS, each with accommodations for four guests in two spacious cabins. A five-day Fantasy Fest itinerary is available on the high performance, two-cabin 48 Sundancer. Rates per cabin are $5,200 all-inclusive. Customary crew gratuity is not included and is at the discretion of the charterer.

For comprehensive information about these and other luxury bareboat yachts available worldwide please visit  Bareboat Yacht Charter.