Looking for a change of scenery? We get it. “Pandemic fatigue” is starting to set in for most of us. Indeed, the idea of escaping the “Covid blues” sounds better and better every day. Covid travel restrictions are important to know.
COVID-19 GUIDELINES BELOW
For many affluent travelers, a holiday luxury yacht charter is very appealing. After all, if you have to practice social-distancing, why not set up camp on a private yacht?
MUCH OF CARIBBEAN HAS TOUGH RESTRICTIONS
Unfortunately, much of the Caribbean is still imposing harsh restrictions on tourism. For example, mandatory tourist quarantines are in place in the British Virgin Islands. It is the most popular yacht charter destination in the world. We anticipate these restrictions will still be in effect for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
BAHAMAS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.
Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.
GET TESTED BEFORE ARRIVAL
These rules apply to every guest over 10 years old. Each passenger on your yacht must get an RT PCR nasal swab Covid-19 test 5 days or less before arrival. Test results from any other type of COVID-19 test are unacceptable. Passengers under the age of 10 do not need to be tested. All tests must be negative for entering the Bahamas.
SUBMIT A HEALTH VISA
Each guest must complete a travel health visa, along with submitting a negative Covid-19 test,. The application is available online. First, go to www.travel.gov.bs. Second, select “International,” and create an account. Fill out your visa information, upload your negative test results, and submit your application. Allow up to 72 hours to receive an approval confirmation. IMPORTANT TO NOTE, you need to print the approval document and bring it with you. You must present the document to Bahamian officials when entering the country.
You must opt-in for health insurance when you complete your health visa application. Specifically, you will be covered for any Covid-19 health issues during your time in the Bahamas. For example, the cost of a mandatory rapid antigen test (required on day 5 of your visit) will be covered. You’ll also be covered if you require quarantine (up to $7000) or medical evacuation (up to $50,000). Charter guests staying 4 days or less pay $40 for coverage. Visitors staying more than four days pay $60.
TAKE A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST ON DAY 5
You are required to take this test if you stay in the Bahamas for 5 or more days. You must quarantine aboard your charter yacht while you await the results of the test. Don’t worry, results are typically texted or emailed within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT NOTE, a rapid antigen test is not required if you have no plans to go ashore during your charter.
SUBMIT A DAILY ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY
Charter guests are required to answer an online health questionnaire each day. This survey is used to identify potential Covid-19 symptoms. Any guests who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms during their charter will be required to take a rapid antigen test. Any positive results will require a Covid-19 RT-PCR swab test.
FOLLOW ONSHORE SAFETY PROTOCOLS
There are rules and requirements to follow when onshore. For example, wearing a face mask is mandatory in public places, except on the beaches. Additionally, social distancing is expected wherever possible in public areas. Finally, be aware that some of the individual islands have evening curfews.
IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS, RIGHT?
It’s nice to know we can escape to the Bahamas during the holidays. Specifically, since so many restrictions are still in place in our hometowns. As they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.” Test it out! Everyone can enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter vacation IF we follow the guidelines listed above.
This has been an unsettling year for everyone. You owe it to yourself, friends, and loved ones to appreciate and enjoy the holidays. Relax and reflect upon all that we have, and do. Take time to smell the roses and to express gratitude. Show yourself some love and plan a well-earned vacation. Push away the stress,k and leave the fatigue behind. Welcome mindfulness and wellness. Make memories and celebrate another year of togetherness. Please stay safe, follow the rules, and take Covid-19 prevention seriously. Regardless, please have a WONDERFUL holiday. Love, Jana
Catamaran yacht charter sailboat, The Meaning of Life…
“Dear Captain Terry,
Apologies for not replying before. A big work backlog on my return. Just to say that we absolutely loved the holiday. We would recommend 42…THE MEANING OF LIFE, THE UNIVERSE, AND EVERYTHING to anyone and would hope to go again ourselves. John and Kath were completely brilliant. Nothing was too much trouble for them. They were fantastic hosts working I have to say extraordinarily hard. The sailing, the food and all the other features on the boat were so good. And John even got me diving for the first time which I loved. The whole experience was just amazing. So thanks to you for suggesting “42.” I am quite sure we could have done no better.
Best wishes, David P.”
Editor’s note: Launched in 2006, crewed catamaran sailing yacht 42 THE MEANING OF LIFE, THE UNIVERSE, AND EVERYTHING certainly has the longest name of all vessels offering crewed catamaran charters. Affectionately called 42 for short, this Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel offers accommodations for 6 guests in 3 cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
Onboard watertoys include towable toys such as a wakeboard, kneeboard, and a ski-tube, and fishing and snorkel gear.
Tourism ads claim, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.” The crew and owner of Sunreef 62 sail catamaran SPARROW believe it is true. They are ready to have you join them there!
THE DISCOUNT
To increase interest in Bahama yacht charters, catamaran SPARROW is offering a $2000 discount. This fare is off of regular rates for any charters in March, 2011 in the Bahamas.
In addition to this, the team at 1-800 Yacht Charters is offering an additional $2000 discount for any charters on Sunreef 62 catamaran SPARROW in the Bahamas in March.
This brings the total savings to $4000 . This equates to a discount of nearly 18% off of catamaran Sparrow’s regular rate of $23,000 per week!
THE RATE DETAILS
Rates in the Bahamas are all-inclusive except for special requests, for instance, wines, champagne, special alcoholic drinks, excessive alcohol consumption. In addition to this are air fares, transfers airport/yacht/airport, dockage fees if any, use of communications onboard, and crew gratuity. These things are what you expect on any vacation.
Included in your charter price is fuel for 4 hours of engine operations.
Discounted charters must take place in March, 2011 and must be for a minimum of 7 nights.
THE BAHAMAS
Just 50 miles from Florida, the Bahamas form an archipelago that extends over 500 miles of the warmest and clearest water in the world.
The Bahamas offers some of the most gorgeous and sheltered yachting grounds in the world. Islands and cays are interspersed among brilliant white beaches and coves. Within sight, the Bahamas chain includes Eleuthra, the Abacos, Exuma, Nassau, the Berry Islands, Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Cat Island, and all of the Bahamian Cays.
THE CATAMARAN
Sunreef 62 SPARROW offers a unique experience to her guests. Charterers indulge in the elegance of a yacht and savor the adventures of sailing. This sailing yacht comfortably accommodates up to 8 adult guests. All 4 staterooms feature ensuite bathrooms.
HOW TO BOOK A SAILBOAT CHARTER
In conclusion, take advantage of this $4000 discount and come find out for yourself if it truly is Better in the Bahamas! Click https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ to reserve your adventure onboard catamaran SPARROW now.
Are you ready to escape with the family on a luxury sailing charter?
Easter is fast approaching but if you act fast, you can still plan a fun-filled family getaway.
We’ve rounded up some affordable last-minute Virgin Islands yacht charter vacations for you and your clan. Rates start at just $161 per night, and include special custom menus, watersports and more!
CREWED CATAMARAN CHARTERS
Crewed catamaran charters offer the hottest vacation options in the islands. Kids love the built-in trampolines and water toys, while parents like the stable ride and roomy comfort of these ultra-wide yachts. Unlike traditional sailboats that “heel” to the side when under sail, cats stay level and flat when underway.
SPECIAL – 8 days for 7
NEMO (2009 model; 47′) – the Nautitech 47 catamaran NEMO leads the way this Easter with an offer of 8 days for the price of 7. With room for a family of 10, this special offer equates to a price of $161/pp per night.
Guests can board the 47-foot yacht on Saturday, April 23rd, in Tortola, BVI at 5 pm. The charter will conclude in Tortola on Sunday, May 1st in the morning. The price includes the Skipper, Hostess/Cook, all meals, beverages and ship’s bar, and an assortment of water toys (e.g. snorkeling equipment, kayak, fishing rods, wakeboard, etc.).
SPECIAL – 10% Discounts
We’ve gathered our newest model cats in the Caribbean and have tagged them with a one-time, 10% DISCOUNT for Easter and Spring Break! Take a look at these great yachts and rates:
IPHARRA (2010 model; 102′) – a luxury mega yacht charter vessel beyond compare. The Sunreef 102 sail catamaran IPHARRAis one of the largest cruising catamarans of the world. Regualr rate is $68,000/wk with room for 10 adults and 2 children. Enjoy a $6800 discount for March, April and Easter.
KING’s RANSOM (2008 model; 76′) – Built by Matrix Yachts, the futuristic Silhouette 760 catamaran KING’S RANSOMsailboat catamaran charter vessel, offers unrivaled luxury. Regular price is $43,800/wk with accomodations for 10 guests. Take a $4300 discount in March, April and Easter.
ADDITIONAL MULTIHULL SPECIALS
NIRVANA (2009 model; 60′) – the Fountaine Pajot Eleuthera 60 catamaran NIRVANAoffers a level of comfort, spacious accommodation and quality of finish more commonly found in custom-designed motor yachts. Her regualr rate for 8 to 10 passengers is €13,300 per week, plus food, bar and running expenses. Save €1,330 for April and Easter bookings. EXTRA SPECIAL – charter in March and the discount increases to 15%!
On the heels of the $161/pp Virgin Islands yacht charter special offered by Nautitech 47 catamaran NEMO comes this new offer for NEMO charters in Greece:
Take 10% off any week-long (7 night) Greece yacht charters booked before April 30, 2011.
Reserve a 2-week (14 night) or longer charter and take an additional 5% discount.
The discounts apply to charters taken June, July, August, or September, 2011. Reservations must be completed prior to April 30, in order to secure the discounts.
The regular charter rates, for 2 to 8 passengers are €13,500 per week, plus expenses in June and September (low season), and €14,500 per week, plus expenses in July and August (high season).
Thus, early reservations prior to April 30 will result in savings of €1,350 per week in low season and €1,450 per week in high season!
The crew’s favorite area in Greece to explore by yacht is the Ionian archipelago. Reachable through international flights to Preveza, good weather and sea conditions are a constant in the summer. There always seems to be a breeze for sailing, and there are plenty of secluded bays in which to anchor and swim in clear, green waters. Small villages with traditional tavernas dot the coastline.
Andrea and Valentina, the Italian crew on NEMO, recommend an Ionian cruise for novices and seasoned sailors, alike. Says, Andrea, “(the Ionian appeals to) Every kind of guests – for those who are at their first experience on a boat, for those who loves the sea all day long, for those who like to print in their memories windmills, sunsets, colorful villages and unspoiled anchorages, for those who like to discover new dishes and new drinks, for those who like shopping.”
Rates include:
Accommodations onboard the Nautitech 47 catamaran NEMO
Skipper (captain)
Hostess/Cook
All meals and beverages (ship’s bar)
Towels
Linens
Biodegradable soaps
Daily cleaning
Access to the yacht’s watertoys – for example, snorkel gear, kayak, fishing rods, boogie board
We’re just back from a week on board sail catamaran DREAMING ON, sailing the BVIs in the capable hands of our wonderful crew, Geoff and Iza. We were also vacationing with another couple…and we all agreed that the whole experience exceeded our expectations by far, to the extent that we have already booked again for next year!
This is all down to Geoff and Iza who are a very special and generous couple – it was like sailing with good friends – the chemistry was perfect and we just hit it off.
SHE CONTINUES HER REVIEW…
They welcomed us on board their beautiful home and anticipated our every need. Iza is an amazing cook – the food (presentation, quality and variety) is better than you get in most good restaurants and all prepared in a galley kitchen – the sushi in particular was unbelievable! And Geoff…well, in our opinion he makes a better Painkiller than the Soggy Dollar (as well as being a great Captain).
They had arranged an itinerary for us (but it was flexible) and we went to different, islands and/or bays every day. For instance, a sail to Anegada, followed by a fabulous lobster dinner at the Reef Hotel – highly recommend this!
They took us to all their favorite spots in the BVIs and we couldn’t get enough of the clear blue waters and white sandy beaches – plenty of snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding to be had. In fact, we didn’t really have enough time just to hang out in one place for a day or go tubing or water-skiing, which is why we are returning next year. Now we know all the best spots and where we’d like to go back to and spend more time.
(Catamaran DREAMING ON) is comfortable and has plenty of space, both out the front on the ‘trampolines’ and the shady area at the back by the cockpit where we enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overall, for anyone out there considering a luxury yacht charter, I would highly recommend, without hesitation, DREAMING ON, and Geoff and Iza – it will be one of the (if not THE) best vacations of your life! We certainly can’t wait to get back on board next year…..
The largest solar-powered boat in the world is MS TÛRANOR. She is a phenomenal sun-loving vessel, and she just arrived in Miami, FL, our sunny hometown.
As I gaze at the deck of MS TÛRANOR, covered in solar panels, I wonder how and if the yacht charter industry will embrace solar powered luxury yachts.
ABOUT MS TURANOR
The MS TÛRANOR, also know as yacht PLANETSOLAR, is a pioneer for sustainable energy technology on water. She is on an around-the-world tour. She is unlike any current luxury mega yacht charter vessel, This amazing catamaran is a 31-meter multihull. She is topped by a large array of photovoltaic solar panels. Built in 14 months, the biggest solar boat ever built has impressive dimensions and is yet both silent and clean.
HOW DOES SOLAR POWER CHANGE YACHTING?
Imagine a charter in the sunny Mediterranean, cruising from port to port without burning expensive fuels and oils.
Solar enables you to slide along like a sailboat, for example, versus the constant drone of engines and some nauseating odors of diesel fuel. Being propelled by pollution-free electrical engines is a dream.
In addition, eliminating fossil fuel greatly reduces carbon dioxide CO2 emissions. This is an important step for this industry. Yachting needs to project a greater commitment to protecting our oceans and environment.
WHAT DOES PLANETSOLAR INTEND?
The solar catamaran PLANETSOLAR employs the leading-edge technology available on the market. The intention is to demonstrate that by innovative use of existing materials and technology, high-performance solar mobility can be realized today.
In conclusion, we are truly witnessing a new era in sustainable energy technology on the seas.
There are two types of luxury yacht charter vacations: Fully-Crewed and Bareboat (no crew).
WHAT IS A FULLY-CREWED YACHT CHARTER?
Fully-crewed charters are for travelers who prefer to leave all aspects of the yacht’s operation in the hands of a skipper and a host of able-bodied seamen (and or women).
Crewed catamaran charters, for example, are currently the most popular form of yachting in the Caribbean. Charter guests board 50 to 80 foot sailing catamarans in locations such as St. Thomas (USVI) and Tortola (BVI). They sail with a captain, first mate, and cook. The crew operates the yacht and prepares all of the meals.
WHAT IS A BAREBOAT CHARTER?
Conversely, a bareboat charter means the yacht is rented to the charterer without a skipper or accompanying crew. The charterer and his travel companions navigate the yacht and perform all duties on board.
Bareboat yacht charter
The closest analogy is the rental car market, and the fleet of vehicles operated by companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis.
In some regions of the world, the lead charterer will be required to hold some type of license in order to reserve a bareboat.
Whether a license is required or not, before they can rent a bareboat charter vessel, ALL prospective charterers must submit a boating resume detailing their qualifications and boating experience.
A typical sailing resume, for example, will require the following details:
EXPERIENCE
Please let us know which of the following you have experience of:
Picking up a mooring
QUALIFICATIONS
Which Qualifications do you hold?
Basic Keelboat
Basic Coastal Cruising
Bareboat Chartering
Coastal Navigation
Advanced Coastal Cruising
Celestial Navigation
Offshore Passagemaking
Basic Small Boat Sailing
Cruising Catamaran
Trailerable Multihull Standard
The bottom line to enjoying a self-drive boat vacation: If you have sailed before, even if you have not spent much time as the skipper, you will most likely qualify to charter a bareboat yacht.
While some of the more technical destinations, like a Greek yacht charter will require more experience, an understanding of basic seamanship, boat handling and navigation is all that is required for a Caribbean yacht charter or a bare boat rental in many of our locations.
YOU NEED A YACHT CHARTER BROKER
Regardless of your decision, you need a yacht charter broker. Your broker can arrange your vacation for you and choose the proper yacht and crew (if you choose a crewed yacht) for your group. We (1-800 Yacht Charters and 1-800 BAREBOAT) know which yachts have proper licenses and insurance, and we inspect the yachts and meet the crews.
The Adriatic continues to gain in popularity as a summer vacation destination. Moreover, the owner of an eco-friendly 30 meter charter yacht hopes to capture some of that business. To accomplish this, he offers reduced prices. Ultimately, a Croatia yacht charter is the perfect summer vacation.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS SALE
The owner’s representatives contact us today. They give us green light to reduce the boat’s weekly charter rate! Motor yacht QUARANTA, rate change decreases from €119,000 per week to €109,000 per week. An incredible 10,000 EUROS savings. This new price valid for yacht rental in Croatia. The price also includes both low and high season dates. It should be noted that this is an unheard of special that is YEAR-ROUND!
HYBRID YACHT
Quaranta is the largest carbon hybrid composite power catamaran charter yacht in the world. Specifically, and most importantly, she paves the way to sustainable yacht building technology and fuel efficient design.
KEY FEATURES
Flexible layout: Over 20 different possibilities that can be changed on a moment’s notice
Flexible cruising speed: 10 to 18 knots …in addition,
Guest interior and exterior space. Comparable with monohull yachts over 40 meters
Lifting platform. Used by guests for more contact with the water …lastly,
Huge windows: Each cabin has extensive outside light and views.
SUMMER 2019 CRUISING AREA IN CROATIA/MONTENEGRO
CHARTER RATE
Without a doubt, an incredible rate at just €109,000 per week.
WHAT ARE HER CURRENT BOOKINGS?
From 10- 18 August, Split to Zadar, booked yacht charter Croatia Coast, fortunate charter guests enjoy the vessel.
YACHT QUARANTA SPECIFICATIONS SPECS
Clients inquire as to her details. First, with her build by Curvelle, she has an absolutely elegant appearance and structure. Naval architect, Incat Crowther’s undoubtable design with exterior design by Mauro Giamboi and interior design by Alex Isaac, she turns heads and makes a statement. Quaranta’s length is 34.10 meters. Her wide beam of 9 meters and draft of 2.3 meters make her stable and comfortable. She accommodates 12 guests in 6 double cabins. These cabins are additionally convertible. Cruising speed of 16-18 knots makes her quick to reach your destination, importantly, in style. She only consumes 200-250 litres per hour of fuel, without a doubt, an incredible savings for pampered guests. Her class MCA: RINA & MCA gives her unrestricted navigation, especially important to those in Dora the Explorer mode.
ONBOARD AMENITIES
Quaranta features a Jacuzzi for 4 on Sun Deck. It should be noted that she has a misting system for natural air conditioning on the sundeck, as well. This lovely yacht features WiFi throughout, so guests will not be without technology! In addition, her lifting platform can be used as a “beach landing!” It lifts the tender with guests in it from the water to the main deck level.
TENDERS & TOYS
Tender:
• 5.20m Williams Sport Jet 520 Tender (2016)
LUXURY TAX ABOLISHED The recent Mediterranean Yacht Charter show in Genoa, Italy, learned that the 3 year old Sardinia Luxury Tax is no more. ABOUT THE TAX The repeal of the Sardinia Luxury Tax is especially good news to charter enthusiasts. Anyone considering a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean is fortunate. The law […] read more
The world of luxury yacht charter has finally arrived in the Seychelles. Motor yacht SEA STREAM, a 76 foot Ferretti with room for 8 guests, is now available for Caribbean yacht charter enthusiasts looking for a new destination. Ferretti yacht SEA STREAM is now available as the only high quality, luxury crewed motor yacht available […] read more
PLAN AND PACK Yikes! What to pack? In just over three weeks, you leave on a week-long Bahama yacht charter vacation. You choose a sleek, performance, basic sailing yacht with crew. Your menu provided to your yacht through your charter broker, and your crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Seriously, what do you pack? […] read more
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