A Day in the Life of an Intern – Part XII

My day as a VIP began, along with some of the other Boatbookings team members, from the old Port of Cannes – a delightful port that welcomes prestigious yachts, and also small authentic fishing boats. A group of us were going through the motions of a typical French Riviera day charter, such that we could greater understand the day charters our clients enjoy.

At 10 o’clock we boarded the Prestige 500s, a sleek day charter yacht of 16 metres. Once settled, we started cruising across the bay of Cannes, and within 15 min we arrived at the Iles des Lérins, the two islands just off the coast of Cannes. Between the two islands, the captain dropped anchor such that we could have a swim!

boatbookings, boatbookings team, day charter, day on a yacht, iles des lerins

On one side we had the island of Saint-Honorat, an impressive backdrop with the imposing Cistercian monastery. On the other side, the island of Santa Margherita is covered by a forest of pines and eucalyptus whose perfumes reached us on the water. All around us, the sea was all sorts of shades of blue. Who would have thought that we were just a few minutes from the glamorous and chic Cannes? Here the atmosphere was of peace, beauty and unspoiled nature.

boatbookings, day charter, day on a yacht, french riviera, iles des lerins, prestige 500s cannes, lerins islands day charter, — The aquamarine waters of the Iles Des Lerins really are that colour!

Immersed in this breathtaking landscape, the crew offered us an exquisite breakfast, made of croissants, pain au chocolat, coffees and water. (They then offered us towels, other soft drinks and snacks for the rest of the day – we were spoilt.) When we finished breakfast, we went for a swim in the crystal-clear, turquoise waters. After an hour, we set off cruising East the coast towards Monaco. We passed right in front of the wonderful Gulf of Juan les Pins, the Cap D’Antibes and Nice. From the yacht we admired the beautiful villas surrounded by the Mediterranean nature, as well as the magnificent yachts that we met on our way.

We stopped in the bay of Villefranche-sur-mer. Here the sea was incredibly calm and flat. This is a very popular destination along the Riviera for yachts and sailing boats, and we often recommend our clients to drop anchor here. Along the coast, there was the delightful (village/small town) of Villefranche-sur-mer with its picturesque houses painted in bright colours.

We had a quick swim here and then headed off again towards our lunch destination. We passed Saint Jean Cap-Ferrat and arrived in the bay of Eze Sur Mer where our captain called the tender for our restaurant of choice, Anjuna bay. We landed on the beach like real VIPs or almost, and we sat down at our table that had an amazing view of the sea. The restaurant was decorated in a nautical, shabby style.

anjuna, anjuna beach, eze, eze sur mer — The eclectic decor at Anjuna Beach, Eze sur Mer.

We had a wonderful and relaxing lunch, chatting and laughing and soon realised that the time had come to embark our yacht once again, and head back to Cannes. At 5 o’clock we went back on board and started cruising towards Cannes with the sun slowly descending. We enjoyed the view of the French Riviera coast once again, impressive as it is, from the comfort of our private boat. Arriving in Cannes, we disembarked around 6pm from the Old Port of Cannes – all very excitable about the magnificent day we had just had!

Working at Boatbookings, you very quickly learn that you are in a collaborative, team-focused environment and this day was no exception. Spending a day out of the office with my colleagues was a fantastic way to get to know them a lot better, and also the business of yacht chartering! I very much look forward to joining the Boatbookings team full time in London, upon graduation.

Posted on September 18, 2018 by Ben Sutton

A Day in the Life of an Intern – Part XI

June 14^th was a special day during my internship at Boatbookings. After spending a couple of hours in our office in Cannes, I headed to Antibes to meet Broker Ben, who had spent the morning meeting some of his clients for their embarkation. We headed to Port Vauban for a brokers’ day out on REHAB – one of our all-time favourite day charter yachts along the French Riviera. Broker days are organised by the owners of the yachts such that the Brokers can get to know the boat and its crew better.

We were greeted on board REHAB by the fantastic crew made up of Captain Chris and Stewardess Justine. Once the other brokers arrived and had settled in, we headed west, past the stunning Cap D’Antibes, towards Cannes and the beautiful Iles de Lérins. The islands are an incredibly popular destination thanks to the crystal-clear water, making them the perfect place to drop anchor, relax and swim. As it was still early in the season, we were able to experience the beauty of the islands without many other people there.

Once we had found the perfect spot to anchor, our lovely hosts had prepared a quiz for us. As brokers are of the competitive kind, it’s not like us to ever back down from a challenge, so we quickly got into our teams, boys vs. girls of course, and the game of 20 questions commenced. After a mix of technical questions about REHAB and other yachts, as well as general knowledge questions about the industry, the girls came out on top!

In the afternoon, everyone enjoyed relaxing on board this stunning Sunseeker yacht, whilst indulging in French crudité platters overflowing with local cheeses, baguettes and olives beautifully prepared by Justine. It was incredibly interesting meeting other people from the Industry and getting to know the faces behind the names. As the day came to an end, we cruised back towards Port Vauban past the stunning villas on the Cap d’Antibes.

This day was a fantastic way to get a taste of what Boatbookings’ clients experience, whilst also getting to know REHAB and it’s lovely crew as well as the other Brokers. I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to talk to so many fascinating people – is there a better place to mingle than aboard a beautiful yacht?

Posted on August 28, 2018 by Ben Sutton

The BVI – 6 Months after Irma – A Charter Paradise Springs Back to Life!

We just returned from a trip to the BVI, so that we can report first person on the progress that has been made since Irma hit these beautiful islands in September. Bottom line, the BVI was hit hard by hurricane Irma, but has bounced back quickly and still offers all of the fabulous reasons why it has become one of the top charter destinations in the world with fewer crowds!

Overall BVI Charter Readiness

Throughout the BVI there is a buzz of activity as resorts, restaurants, and bars spring back to life. Newly planted palm trees are everywhere. Restaurant owners are painting and re-roofing their beloved establishments. The foundations for chartering are all back in place and working:
Yachts – fleet owners quickly fixed the yachts that had minor damage, ordered replacements for those that were total losses, and moved yachts from other ports in the Caribbean. There are plenty of yachts for charter in nearly all categories.
Provisioning – Provisioning stores are open for business and well stocked. You should be able to get everything you need.
Beaches and Snorkeling – There is no problem finding a great beach or snorkeling area on any of the islands. Coral and Fish were unaffected by the storm, and the beaches have been brought back to life. White Bay (JVD) and Devils Bay (Virgin Gorda, next to the Baths) are pristine and gorgeous. The beach at Deadman’s Bay is fine, but many of the palm trees have been destroyed and there is work being done on the Peter Island Resort so it’s not as pretty as it once was. That will no doubt be improved as the Peter Island renovations are sure to bring in new Palm Trees.
Trees and Plants – Irma was the most powerful storm to ever hit North America – with sustained winds above 180 MPH. This force blew nearly every leaf off of every tree and bush, and destroyed many of the tallest palm trees. The green islands were completely brown right after the storm and many buildings that were unnoticeable now are clearly visible. The good news is that these plants are growing back quickly, and most will soon be in full foliage. Many of the missing palm trees are being replaced by imported new ones, which will take a few years to grow back to their original height. But the good news is that nature renews quickly, and has made major progress already.
Resorts – All resorts on the island are still essentially closed – including sailor friendly ones such as Bitter End and Peter Island. So many of the amenities they offered – spas, massages, fancy restaurants, etc. are harder to come by. On the positive side, Oil Nut Bay, which used to be exclusive and off limits to charterers, now serves a daily lunch and if you eat lunch you can use their pool and beach facilities for free, including their hobie cats. Well worth a visit!
Bars and Restaurants – Excellent news here – most of the famous beach bars are now back open, including Pirates, Myetts, Foxy’s and the Soggy Dollar. The Soggy Dollar Bar has been completely rebuilt, including bringing in many new palm trees. The Painkillers haven’t changed, and there are fewer day tourists from other islands so you can actually get a seat on the beach or chat with the bartender. They released an amazing book that chronicles the rebuilding process they went through. As mentioned above, most resort restaurants are still closed, so upscale dining is not what it once was, but will be coming back by next season. Corsairs on JVD is being completely rebuilt, so for now it’s best to dine at Foxy’s. Willy T #3 has been ordered and will soon be replacing Willy T #2, which is sadly still beached at the Bight. ** New – we have a page that lists all BVI resorts, bars and restaurants that are open and closed, for each island **

Status of the Major Islands

Tortola

Road Town is still visibly damaged and recovering from the storm. You can still see many destroyed catamarans and monohulls in the harbor (see above). Cane Garden Bay sustained damage but Myetts is back open with live music, food and drinks. Sopers Hole and the West End is best avoided, although Pussers is back open while it continues to rebuild.

Norman Island – 1/2 of Pirates is open and in great shape! The second half is being actively worked on and should be open very soon. You can definitely get fritters and great drinks at sunset. As mentioned above – Willy T’s is still beached, but a whole new boat has been built and is arriving soon.

Peter Island

Because the Peter Island Resort is essentially the only business on the island, the fact that it is closed means that the island is a bit desolate. Deadman’s bay is not as beautiful as it once was because many of the palm trees are gone (see above), and there are signs warning people to stay away from the resort. There are still plenty of sea turtles to see, but I’d be reticent to stay there until the resort re-opens – which is currently scheduled for late 2018.

Virgin Gorda

The Baths and Devils Bay are still as gorgeous as ever, as shown on the picture at the top of this article. Unfortunately, however, Virgin Gorda was hit directly by the full force of Irma, and many parts are just beginning to rebuild. The iconic Bitter End was a total wreck, and they are only now beginning to rebuild. Most of the resort will need to be reconstructed from the bottom up. Saba Rock began reconstruction in April when we were there, and there are hopes it will go quickly, although no timeline has been announced.

Don’t be discouraged, however! For a fantastic day by the pool in a luxury resort, head over to gorgeous Oil Nut Bay Resort, pictured above. If you eat lunch there, you can use their facilities including the pool and beach toys.

Anegada

Surprisingly, Anegada shows the least damage of any of the main islands in the BVI. It’s basically back to normal. The restaurants are all open and fully functional and Cow Wreck Bar is happily serving Dark and Stormy’s. When we were there, the harbor was full of catamarans, and the restaurants were full and lively. Plus we saw the above magnificent sunset!

Jost Van Dyke

Foxy’s is open and fully functional, in fact we spoke with Foxy and he was in great form! The Saturday night barbecue was in full swing. In White Bay, the famous Soggy Dollar Bar has been fully reconstructed. You have to play ring toss on a newly erected post instead of the famous old tree (see above), but the charm of the bar is still there and the beach is as beautiful as ever.

Summary

The BVI is up and running and still has all of the attractions that have made it one of the most beloved charter areas in the world. It took a massive hit, and is bouncing back. It’s not perfect, however, and will still take many months to restore all of the resorts. It was special for everyone in our group to observe the power of nature, the resilience of the people, and the fundamental beauty of the islands. And we knew that every dollar we spent was helping with the rebuilding process. We highly recommend heading to the BVI as soon as you can – it’s fine and getting better every day!

Posted on April 20, 2018 by Tom Virden

The BVI is Bouncing Back!

This year, the Caribbean saw devastation the likes of which haven’t been seen for many, many years; businesses were shut down, lives turned upside-down, and some islands have been deeply scarred by hurricanes Irma and Maria.

However, the sheer power of nature has been outshone by the greater force of community strength. Times like this prove that people all over the world can come together and help one-another; rebuilding lives and strengthening bonds; providing moral support and showing great respect for those who have suffered.

It has only been a few months since the disaster, yet we are delighted to announce that some of the BVI’s most popular eateries and restaurants are either back, or on their way back, ready for Mid-December in time for the Christmas and New Year holidays, as the Caribbean comes back from this travesty bolder, stronger and just as beautiful!

Foxy’s Tamarind Bar

Foxy’s is a hidden, colourful jewel nestled between the palms on the island of Jost Van Dyke. Beginning its life in 1966, Foxy’s has climbed through history to become the best known bar in the Caribbean; famed for it’s fresh ingredients and exquisitely cooked beach-food, guests can enjoy a range of items, such as Jerk Chicken, Pulled Pork and Calamari.

Coco Loco Beach Bar

Coco Loco’s Beach Bar is still on the mend, and hopefully will be back to normal by December, but we couldn’t miss this superb establishment off of our list! Run by Uncle Wendell and based in Jost Van Dyke, Coco Loco’s is an increasingly popular restaurant and bar with widely praised pizza, fresh fish and stunning views.

The Watering Hole

The Watering Hole is the centre of parties in Road Town, with Full Moon Tiki Parties, an incredibly well-stocked bar (with capacity to open a second bar when things start to boom!) and astounding reviews for their cuisine. This fine establishment offers guests a range of food, from pizzas, to burgers, sandwiches and salads; the perfect food to eat whilst your toes are buried in the sand!

Gram’s Place

Gram’s Place is incredibly popular amongst the locals- which is always a good sign! Situated in the East End of Road Town, Gram’s Place offers a menu reflective of the true Caribbean palate. The menu changes daily, featuring wonderful Caribbean stews, beautifully cooked fish and traditional side dishes.

Irene’s Restaurant & Bar

Irene’s is a newer addition to the Caribbean restaurant family, however, their Friday Night Grill’s have already made a big splash with visitors and locals alike. Featuring traditional Caribbean foods, as well as some more popular Western dishes, Irene’s is a superb mix of fun, food and festivities!

We’ve compiled a list of reputable charities should you wish to help out with the continued efforts to rebuild:

The BVI is back up and running, and there is every reason to charter a yacht around this jaw-dropping archipelago! Get in touch to realise your dream Caribbean getaway on board a Crewed Catamaran Charter!

See our BVI Charter Guide and Itineraries to give you some inspiration for your escape!

Posted on November 6, 2017 by Ben Sutton

A Day in the Life of an Intern Part VIII

Whoever said the life of an intern was filled with those horrible jobs that nobody else wants to do? A sunny September’s day saw broker Ben and I heading off to the glamorous St Tropez for an amazing day at sea aboard the beautiful KIDI ONE.

Strolling through St Tropez, it’s not hard to see why so many return to this stunning town year after year. St Tropez is a beautiful little fishing village at first glance, however, through the windy cobbled streets, lined with charming terracotta buildings lies a vibrant shopping capital. Designer boutiques nestled into petite, classically French buildings with shuttered windows and golden walls. Eventually the narrow, windy streets open up to the port, a fascinating juxtaposition of beautiful, quaint buildings against immense, modern Super Yachts and bustling bars. St Tropez truly is a sleepy, fishing village that has been brought to life and doused in glamour and I was instantly enchanted.

Upon meeting our fellow travellers, a lively and welcoming group of brokers from other companies, I was gifted with a beautiful little bracelet to commemorate my day at sea in St Tropez! We were all split between 3 beautiful yachts NEGARA, OF VILLA ROMANA and ours, KIDI ONE. KIDI ONE glided toward us, effortlessly cutting through the water, a vision in sparkling white with royal blue detailing. KIDI ONE was beautiful, with the theme of turquoise running throughout the exterior, hints of blue in the salon and then glossy, cherry brown and crisp white with splashes of gold spreading elegance and class throughout the guest cabins and bathrooms, the photographs truly do not do it justice.

Ben and I sat on the sun pads on the bow of the yacht and the views were breath taking, stunning yachts, towering mountains flourishing with green and the sparkling sea, St Tropez is paradise. Finally, we came to a halt and anchored beside Plage de L’Escalet, the hillside teeming with lavish villas and the sea, an incredible shade of turquoise. Now it was time for water toys! My first choice, the humble paddleboard – easy! Or so I thought. My first attempt at standing up resulted in my first plunge into the icy cold water, the September Sea is beautiful and wonderfully energising. I powered through, yet round 2 was still unsuccessful and resulted in another soaking, perhaps paddleboarding is not for me. On to the big boy toys, the Sea Bob, whizzing across the surface of the sea was the most incredible feeling, though I didn’t dare dive beneath the surface, it was an amazing rush to skim across the surface of the water like a human jet ski, that’s a new one for the Christmas list!

The afternoon was spent munching on Foie Gras sandwiches, sipping wine and getting to know everyone in an incredible setting. Too much food and too much fun resulted in a quick power nap on the sundeck in the warm glow of the sun – bliss. After an amazing day in dazzling St Tropez we finally cruised back to dry land.

Being able to meet so many wonderful people and experience such an incredible yacht in the most enchanting place was truly surreal and an experience I will never forget! Boatbookings internships are definitely not your average internship, with so much responsibility making way for valuable experiences and, of course, it doesn’t hurt getting to charter for the day on a stunning luxury yacht!

Posted on September 27, 2017 by Ben Sutton