This week we’re turning our hands to the world of sailing, and the ultimate sailing experience. This experiences comes in the form of the stunning STATE OF GRACE. 39.4 metres of pure Perini Navi elegance, this sloop rigged sailing yacht is the first of a new series by Perini Navi in collaboration with New Zealand designer Ron Holland. Holland is famous originally for his racing designs, but more recently for the largest single masted sailing yacht in the world MIRABELLA V. From his vast experience, STATE OF GRACE has been delivered with a 50 metre mast and carbon fibre furling boom, but comes with a stunning contemporary interior with clean, comforting lines throughout.
Tag Archives: British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands: Your Own Sailing Adventure
It’s officially autumn, or fall, in the northern hemisphere, and many of us are starting to see the temperatures drop. If this is the case for you, why not think about the light at the end of the tunnel, and organise your winter holiday or spring break in the British Virgin Islands?
The home of the bareboat yacht charter, crewed catamarans are also highly popular in the BVI – but don’t worry, you can always choose a motor yacht if sailing isn’t your thing. It’s almost always summer in the Caribbean, so there will be no need for your woolly hat and gloves here!
Now, we know that there is plenty to see and do in the British Virgin Islands, but what about the islands’ history which has made it the place it is today?
The British Virgin Islands were, once upon a time, popular with pirates after its discovery as the English, Dutch, French, Spanish and Danish all attempted to gain control. The country’s pirate history has been remembered through the names given to bays and islands; Captain Norman, a pirate who was hanged by the Spanish Guarda Costas is the name behind Norman Island; “Black Sam” Bellamy is the inspiration behind the name of Bellamy Cay, the islet he used as a base which gives a good vantage point across the Sir Francis Drake Channel – again, named after the English hero of the Spanish Armada.
Blackbeard, the famous pirate of legend, is also noted in the names of two islands, Great Thatch and Little Thatch. These names come from one of the other names the pirate was known by, Edward Thatch, and Dead Man’s Bay on Peter Island gained its name from the story of Blackbeard’s marooned men who then tried to swim to safety on Peter Island but drowned in their attempt.
Of course, the British Virgin Islands are said to have inspired R.L. Stevenson in his writing of Treasure Island, and if you want to come and explore the culture and history, and see these namesake places yourself, a yacht charter with Boatbookings will provide you with your own unforgettable island adventure. And don’t worry – these pirates are long gone!
An Insight into the BVI this Winter
According to Charter Director, Allison Cecilio, why should you choose just one island when you can explore as many as your heart desires! The stunning 50-plus islands and cays that comprise the British Virgin Islands have two great assets, they are easily accessible and its virgin beauty. They have been known for years as a “sailor’s paradise” and what better way to explore these islands than on your own private charter catamaran. Discover one of “Nature’s Little Secrets” with your family and friends this January on one of the best holidays of your life; you’ll treasure every memory!
One of my favorite places to visit in the BVI’s was Saba Rock, which is located in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda. Saba Rock was originally the home and scuba diving headquarters of the legendary scuba pioneer and treasure hunter, Bert Kilbride. In 1997 John McManus bought the island and with the help of local architect, Paul Wattley, they created the paradise it is today.
It is primarily a restaurant and bar with wrap around seating that ensures all diners a fantastic view, especially at sunset when the happy hour offers great drink specials. The food is absolutely delicious and make sure to have one of their signature drinks! There is also plenty to explore on this one-acre island that includes the mini museum/gift shop, which displays many of the artefacts that Bert Kilbride salvaged and the small aquarium that contains the last anchor of the Rhone.
There is no better way to vacation in the BVI’S other than by boat and there is no better choice than the newly launched luxurious sailing catamaran, Tell Star 62. Add a very energetic, popular and talented crew, and the journey is guaranteed to be unforgettable. The new Tell Star, a 62 Lagoon, has a very spacious modern open layout with wonderfully expansive decks for enjoying the gorgeous turquoise waters of the BVI.
The large windows allow plenty of natural light in the interior as well as amazing views of the picturesque coastline. She accommodates 8 guests in 4 luxurious, well appointed cabins: 3 with queen berths and 1 with two twins. The master suite features a walk-around bed with private sitting area and direct access to the cockpit.
The aft deck offers a spacious lounge area and outdoor dining with magnificent views. From the aft deck there is easy access to the water via the wide steps on each pontoon. The foredeck with its two large trampolines is a favorite area for sunbathing and lounging while under sail. The expansive fly bridge is yet another wonderful spot to take in the spectacular scenery with a hard top bimini providing shade from the sun.
Captain Chad Van Roden and his brother Chef Tyler Van Roden are known for wow-ing their guests with extraordinary yachting vacations. Their personalities are most welcoming, ready to do everything possible to ensure an unforgettable charter. They are joined by Elizabeth Rapp as hostess/stewardess to complete the 3-person crew.
The Boatbookings team know the very best crewed catamarans to meet your requirements. Moreover, our first hand experience of the boats, crews an destinations will ensure that you have a unique and memorable experience. Learn more about your charter today!
The Ultimate Christmas Gift – Super Yacht Offers over the Holiday Season!
The holiday season is approaching, and whilst the rush may have started to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones the question of how to spend the big day is still looming. Why not escape the cold and darkness and head to the sunny Caribbean and make the most of the holiday season? Super Yacht charter is an experience like no other, your own floating paradise with every luxury amenity you can possibly imagine and a hand-picked crew to cater to your every need. We have two of the world’s finest super yachts currently on offer over the Holiday season…
At an astonishing 190ft, MI SUENO is a standout boat in every aspect of the word. Vast deck spaces, luxurious but relaxing interiors and even a display of fine wines make MI SUENO the perfect boat for a large group to enjoy time together. However if you’re looking to make things a little more private she features a mesmerising split-level master suite with study and lounge. 5 further cabins means she can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. Ease into the jacuzzi on the fly deck and follow this with a dip into the splash pool, or if you prefer to be out on the sea she’s loaded with an array of water toys! With a special rate of $300,000 plus expenses in the Bahamas and the Caribbean, MI SUENO is the perfect Christmas gift.
236ft of pure luxury, TITANIA is a Lurssen super yacht consisting of three spacious decks, 7 cabins, Spa and Wellness facility, Beach Club with sauna and even an inflatable kit for running around on the water. There’s nothing missing onboard TITANIA and with her dedicated crew of 20 you won’t be wanting for anything, immaculate and professional service is guaranteed! Her 72 metre presence guarantees to stand out wherever you are. TITANIA is being offered this Holiday season at her low season rate of $550,000 per week for any charters 10 days or over, and at just $420,000 per week in the New Year!
Whatever you’re looking for during the Holidays, whether it be planning last minute or getting in early for next summer contact the Boatbookings.com team for expert advice and a bespoke service!
Charter Luxury Yacht Gypsy Princess in 2013
GYPSY PRINCESS is perfect for sailing around the Virgin, Leeward and Windward islands. GYPSY PRINCESS was one of our top Crewed Catamarans of the BVI Yacht Show 2012, where she was the winner of the Best Catamaran Under 55ft award.
Get your bookings in quick! She currently has a special offer of 10% off any charter of 4 days or longer in 2012 or 2013. Charters must be booked before December 14th 2012.
For more information on how to charter your very own crewed catamaran yacht, please visit our Luxury Crewed Catamaran page or send an enquiry email to [email protected]. We would be delighted to help you to organise your winter vacation!