Author Archives: Alice Newnham

ITALIAN APERITIVO

This Italian word known all over the world is an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage that is generally consumed between 5pm and 8pm. Nowadays people do not associate the Aperitivo to a beverage, but the word is used to describe the action of gathering with friends before dinner to have a drink and some snacks.

Drinks and cocktails are what generally characterizes an Aperitivo.

Elisa

The Aperitivo was born in Turin, Italy more than 200 years ago. The official drink of the region is the Vermut, an aromatized white wine that became the symbol of Turin. Initially, people who were affected by lack of appetite used to drink it before dinner because it helped to stimulate the appetite. Over the coming years, this became a tradition and people started gathering in the early evening to have a drink. The Vermut can be drunk straight or is now used as a base for many cocktails.

The most typical and popular Italian drinks that are consumed during an aperitivo are Spritz, Negroni, Bellini, wine, and beer.

But let’s go more in the specific of the regions…

FOOD AND DRINKS

The Aperitivo is generally accompanied by food. It is not a proper meal as it is consumed before dinner, but besides drinking, every bar will offer you some snacks! Chips and nuts are the basic food you can have, but you can also decide to have some more sophisticated snacks.

If you go sailing in one of the most popular destinations in Italy, you must stop in one of the bars on the cost and have an Aperitivo like a good Italian!

In Sardinia the bars will probably propose you to taste different cheeses, the most popular is the Pecorino, accompanied by the bread Carasau. These are all typical delicious products produced on the island. Some fresh fruit during a hot day would also be the perfect combination. The white wine Vermentino or the Ichnusa beer are the typical beverages of the island, so it would be worth tasting them. If you are a liquor lover you must try the Mirto, it is a Sardinian liquor obtained from the myrtle plant through the alcoholic maceration of the berries.

In Sicily, traditional food is not known as the lightest, but every dish is unique and absolutely delicious! The passion and the attention on details that it is used to prepare the dishes are fascinating. One of the best-loved Sicilian snacks are the Arancini: fried rice balls stuffed with sauce, peas, cheese or other ingredients. It is a must if you want a traditional Sicilian treat. The Etnabitter is the typical liquor of the region. It is produced with red-orange peel, white wine, honey, almond, and natural herbs. It is used to create many cocktails, so you will be able to taste it in different ways.

In the Amalfi Coast you will be able to taste a mix of different snacks, some of the more elaborated and others more simple, but with an original taste. A typical snack is the small fried mozzarelle, salty cakes stuffed with potatoes and cheese, Chiacchere – fried pizza dough, but you can also find some places that offer you a simple selection of different types of cold cuts, all accompanied by bread or some white focaccia. Limoncello is a lemon liquor typical of the region. From this liquor, it is possible to create different cocktails and one of the most portals in the Amalfi Coast is the Amalfi Breeze which combines the limoncello with the tang of citrus vodka and the sweetness of cranberries.

Nowadays the Aperitivo is a way of gathering with the family or friends, meeting new people, communicating and discovering new places. It is a tradition and is a great way of making good memories.

Fancy enjoying the above? Why not enquire on one of our crewed motor yachts with an exceptional crew who all live and breath the Italian traditions! Get in contact now with one of our Italian experts to understand how you too, can enjoy the best Lemoncello about!


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A bar with a view – Ibiza

Ibiza is truly one of the best destinations in Europe during the summer holidays for many reasons. Food, turquoise blue sea, beaches, sun, restaurants, and people – everything is amazing. Ibiza is an island with a doubled soul: the wild summer, devoted excesses with parties, festivals, and music which made it famous in the last 40 years. Where art and fashion merge with creating an environment where people can feel free to express themselves. On the flip side, there is then the more relaxed and quiet side that takes care of traditions and the uncontaminated nature of the island. Her volcanic soul, coupled with turquoise waters makes for a restful peaceful place – perhaps this is why it used to be a hippy island in the 60’s/70’s/80’s.

Here you can find the best side of both worlds and this perfect mix makes the island unique, fascinating and intriguing. If you decide to go cruising around the island you have to make sure to not miss the three following amazing bar/ restaurants. Perfect to spend some time with your family and friends and make unforgettable memories.

Amante

Located in the stunning Sol d’en Serra bay, this amazing beach restaurant offers lunch, dinner and a beach setting. During the day it is a quiet beach club, while in the evening it is a fine restaurant that offers you a tasty selection of contemporary Mediterranean dishes. The dishes are inspired by the modern Spanish and Italian cuisines and are composed of fresh meat or fish cooked in many different ways. Amante offers also some activities during day and night: Yoga and an open-air cinema.

The best time would definitely be when the sun starts going down. The bar and restaurant organised Aperitivi, with drinks and tapas. One of the main features of this location is the breathtaking view on the whole bay, what a better way to end your day in this unique location accompanied by this stunning view and a glass of wine. 

Sunset Ashram

Cala Conte is one of the most famous coves on the island. It is surrounded by sand dunes, rocky cliffs, and crystalline blue waters. This special gem also has the view that overlooks some small inhabited islands situated right in front, all reachable by boat! There are two main beaches with white sand, where you can relax under the Mediterranean sun.

Right next to the beach there is Sunset Ashram. It is a bar/restaurant where you can to enjoy some great drinks and fresh food. This is also one of the best places where you can enjoy the wonderful Ibizian sunsets. In the evening, the Sunset Ashram hosts various DJs playing during the spectacular sunsets, but it is above all a place where you completely relax, have a drink and watch the sky changing color while the sun disappears on the horizon.

Beachouse

If you want a place where to spend your day with music, food, beach and relaxing, Beachouse is the perfect location. Right next to the famous Ushuaïa Hotel & Club and the Hard Rock Hotel, this stunning beach/restaurant is situated in the most popular beach of Ibiza: Playa d’en Bossa. It is the longest beach on the island where some of the best bars and clubs are situated. House beach is definitely a must if you want to stay close to the “movida”. You can relax during the day by renting sunbeds and parasols and by attending some beach yoga sessions.

Just a few steps by from the Mediterranean sea there is the restaurant that offers lunch and dinner with typical, fragrant Spanish Paella or any fish based dishes. Thanks to the extensive menu of food and drinks you will be spoiled of choice! In the evening and during the night the atmosphere changes. Beachouse always hosts the famous international DJ’s and organizes the best parties. It is definitely a summer dream!

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SUPERTOY – The unsung hero of the Riviera!

SUPERTOY – The unsung hero of the Riviera!

Boatbookings on M/Y SUPERTOY

Broker Cordy (4th from the right below) had the pleasure of a night cruise and dinner aboard SUPERTOY in July 2019, and was astounded by not only the yacht but also the devoted, diligent crew.

The Crew

Based in the South of France, Captain John (above) and his team have been together for over 6 years and they work together like a well-oiled machine. The service is attentive but discreet and totally on point.

Captain John (the middle gentleman) loves to take clients to anchor. In his own words, ‘That’s the idea of being on a boat, right?!’ So we were treated to a starlit dinner at anchor between the Cannes islands! There really is nothing more special than spending time on the water away from your day to day life and feeling like you have rejuvenated.

Service and Food

Chef Gary’s food is highly accomplished, hostess Edina is very professional and effortlessly ensured that we wanted for nothing during our time on board.

SUPERTOY is surprisingly spacious and offers incredible value for money. Her best feature is her huge flybridge area complete with bar and vast sunbathing pads.

Captain John also helms the boat from up here so it’s the perfect area to get to know the crew whilst cruising along the French Riviera.

Her aft deck table very comfortably seats all 10 guests and her interior volume is incomparable to her contemporaries.

We wholeheartedly recommend the fabulous SUPTERTOY. With some high season availability remaining, please contact Cordy to book your charter on board for summer 2019!

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Island hopping hotspots in Croatia

The Dalmatian coast is renowned for its culture, history, crystal blue waters and partying. Most of the islands are only accessible by boat which has made the Dalmatian coast come alive! Use your yacht to stop off and explore the most off the beaten track country that Europe has to offer.

Aerial view of Brijuni islands, Croatia

Broker Alice, having sailed on Croatia’s shores and explored the local bars and restaurants shares her top island tips and some photographs of her time in Croatia.

Split

Most yacht charters will begin and end in (and around) the historic town of Split. The city is often mistaken as being Croatia’s capital and is adorned with every jewel of Croatian history. The city is the home of the Roman Palace of Diocletian, a labyrinth of underground chambers, churches, bell towers and amphitheaters.

It is easy to get lost in this maze and to explore one of the best-preserved, ancient cities in the world. You will find world-class seafood spots on every corner, performing opera in ancient squares and many Croatian bars to choose from. Avoid the commercial city center and get lost in the old town. There is also a fantastic walk, taking you to one of the oldest churches in the world.

Stari Grad

Located on the northern side of Hvar island, Stari Grad is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in the Adriatic Sea. This town is one of the oldest towns in Europe and hosts culture, history and hidden bars. The bay is well protected and profits from a wealth of history, museums, hiking exploring or simply heading to a beautiful beach. There are even ancient caves and tunnels to visit if you are feeling adventurous!

Hvar Town

Hvar is quite rightly renowned for being Croatia’s, glamorous party capital. This destination is often frequented by superyachts, celebrities, and UBER boats.  Upon arrival, you will most likely be greeted by the sound of music stereos on superyachts and beach clubs. Oddly, there are some of the most beautiful lavender fields to explore! If you are looking to catch the sunset with a mojito in hand, Hvar is the place for you. There are water taxis to take you back to your boat that run throughout the evening so don’t worry if you don’t want to use the dinghy!

Vis

Spend a quiet day in this beautiful, well-preserved fishing village, Vis. The ancient walls remain and the bay is beautiful for a candle lit seafood dinner with friends and family! This island is practically uninhabited and there’s a strong chic-Bohemian vibe. It is also a fantastic sailing distance away from Hvar.  Up until 1989 this destination was cut off from tourists, there are still not many locals! Definitely visit Blue cave before heading into the marina, it is an absolute must-see!

Dubrovnik

Further along the Dalmatian coast, prepare to fall in love with one of the oldest cities in the world. The ancient city walls around Dubrovnik protect this haven from anything coming in and from anything leaving. Throughout Croatia’s disturbed 20th century history, this city managed to keep every single charm and beauty. The shimmer of the Dalmatian waters and the ongoing orange roofed buildings make this location a must see before or after your Croatian yacht charter.

On land trip

When you are back on land be sure to visit the national park and go explore the local waterfalls. The Croatian waterfalls are not to be missed prior to or following your charter! Do get in touch with our team to secure your island hopping charter!

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FERRAGOSTO

If you decide to go to Italymid-August be ready to celebrate! One of the long-awaited days in the Italian Summer is the 15th of August, better known as Ferragosto.

It’s origin dates back to the Roman empire. It is a holiday established by the emperor Augustus in 18 BC. He wanted to provide a period of rest and celebrations after a long period of agricultural labor.

Now it’s about traditions, meeting with family and friends. Of course, being in Italy food plays an extremely important part of the celebration along with bonding and creating lasting memories. It is a day that people wait with enthusiasm.

If you find yourself in Sardinia, you must be prepared because wherever you are there will be loads of fun and interesting things to do and what a better way to celebrate this festivity on top of a boat.

PHI BEACH

This is definitely one of the best beach clubs in the Emerald Coast, located only 15 minutes from Porto Cervo. Here you can enjoy the beach experience during the day, the unique restaurant in the evening and the club during the night. It is also known for one of the best spots where to see the sunset. On the day of Ferragosto, they organize the best parties with great international DJs. It’s definitely a must if you find yourself cruising in the north of Sardinia at this time of the year. Perfect for both young and ….. people!

It is one of the most famous beaches in North Sardinia. Long 1km, it accommodates many different beach clubs and restaurants. You will be spoilt of choice. One of the main traditions during the 15th of August is to get together around a table and have a tasty Italian meal.

Considering this amazing location, a good suggestion would be Linguini Allo Scoglio, shrimps or salmon tartar. Liscia Ruja is definitely the perfect place where to go and spend your day with family and friends.

Another tradition of Ferragosto that is not to be missed is the amazing firework shows that many promoters organise during this day. It is a moment to gather together and relax in front of this mix of colours that explode in a dark blue Mediterranean sky.

What a better way than watching the fireworks from a boat.

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