Beat the winter blues

There is no way to brighten up the winter months than booking a week away in the Caribbean on a yacht. Beat the winter blues and secure a yacht charter with Boatbookings in the Caribbean! Dreaming of crystal blue waters, perfect sailing conditions, beach bars, conch salads, scuba diving or just spending quality time with loved ones? There is no place better than the Caribbean to enjoy these activities and to avoid grey days onboard a boat. Many bareboat monohull, catamaran or crewed Caribbean charters still remain available for Spring. it is not too late to secure your boat!

Having lived and worked in the Caribbean, broker Alice shares her favourite islands for a charter this winter.

The Sunsetting in Guadeloupe, taken by broker Alice

St Vincent and the Grenadines

These group of islands are part of the Caribbean Windward Island chain. These islands are renowned for more sheltered sailing temperatures towards the later parts of Spring. When the rest of the Caribbean enters into rain season over summer, the climate of these islands remains calm. Chartering a yacht within these islands has a similar feel to chartering in the British Virgin Islands however the experience is more tranquil. St Vincent and the Grenadines are often visited by British royalty and possess an air of unspoilt sophistication. These islands are very popular for bareboat monohull charterers however there are many crewed and bareboat catamarans to choose from if you would prefer!

Bequia is a MUST – visit whilst on charter here. If you are feeling adventurous why not try a one way charter from St Vincent to Grenada.

Guadeloupe

Consisting of 5 islands, Guadeloupe ( otherwise known as ‘Butterfly Island’ or ‘Gwada’) is the largest of the Caribbean islands.

Expect to see a lot of natural beauty, friendly locals and French bakeries throughout your charter. Must do activities during a charter include diving on the Reserve Cousteau National heritage scuba dive site on the island of Basse -Terre, hiking the many waterfalls across the islands and hiring a scooter to tour the beautiful Iles Saintes.

‘Gwada’ creates an imperfect blend of classically French and Creole culture that oddly mixes to provides an unforgettable experience. Cuisine to try on the island includes Planteur cocktail with locally produced white rum, Octopus fricassé and most importantly the deep-fried Bokit sandwich. Follow the Boatbookings tailor made itinerary to get the best out of Guadeloupe..

https://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/guadeloupe_bareboat_itinerary.php

There are many great monohull and catamaran options to choose from for a yacht charter in Guadeloupe.

The British Virgin Islands

Having recovered from the damaging effects of hurricane IRMA in 2017, the British Virgin Islands have officially bounced back and has re-gained their reputation of being the jewels in the crown of bareboat and crewed yachting. Whether you’re looking for a bareboat or a crewed catamaran or monohull yacht, these islands have something for everyone. White-sand beaches, luxury hotels and some of the best bars in the world comprise the BVI! This is one of our favourite destinations to organise charters due to the variety of boats and the great crewed catamaran options available!

Do get in contact with the Boatbookings charter experts today to plan your yacht charter for Winter/ Spring!

There’s still time to catch a Caribbean sunset from the comfort of your private yacht!

Posted on February 27, 2020 by Alice Newnham

The best of the Amalfi Coast

Although sipping Limoncello in the enchanting town of Sorrento or strolling through the streets of Positano can be breathtaking. The only way to see the Amalfi Coast and to experience its beauty is by a yacht charter. Hopping onboard either a crewed motor-yacht, catamaran or a bareboat promises to create the most memorable experience on the water.

Broker Alice highlights the best things to do both on and off the water during your Boatbookings yacht charter on the Amalfi Coast this summer! Boatbookings recommends visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii prior to embarking onto your yacht. Both bareboat, crewed motor or catamaran yacht itineraries provide the inspiration for an unforgettable yacht charter.

Must see’s

Capri

Since the establishment of Ancient Rome, Capri has been renowned for its beauty and glamour. Capri is home to the jet set and is often visited by the Kardashians during the summer. Not only can you be a part of the jet set on this island, you can also visit ancient temples and the Blue Grotto. Waters are crystal clear and the restaurants are divine, there is no better place to spend a few days than Capri.

Ischia

The volcanic island is known for thermal springs, mud pools and hot sands. This is the biggest island within the bay of Naples and is the home of eternal youth. People come to the island to escape, to explore its lush vegetation and to eat fresh fish in local restaurants along the waterfront.

Amalfi

Amalfi is the iconic town that plays homage to the name of the coastline. Roman Aristocrats built holiday homes here and since then it has developed to becoming a very powerful maritime base. The town is filled with piazzas and a great choice of bars. This is the perfect destination for a 4PM apero.

Salerno

Renowned for being the birthplace of the Scuola Medica Salernitana, Salerno is one of the Europe’s founding medical institutes. This town is bustling with life and ancient history.

Cuisine

For cruising Boatbookings recommends fresh fish and locally caught seafood during an Amalfi Coast yacht charter. A glass of cold white wine, preferably from the island of Capri is an essential to be paired with any fish ordered. Every meal is unique and is often prepared by local recipes, cooking techniques are often passed from generation to generating, differing but retaining the magical touch of the Amalfi Coast. This is the ultimate charter for any foodie!

Watch mount Vesuvius from your yacht and feel a part of the most fascinating historical playgrounds on the globe. We also offer Amalfi Coast Day Charter experiences if you only have a day to spare!

Get in contact with the Boatbookings team to speak to an expert and start planning your charter today!

Posted on February 25, 2020 by Alice Newnham

Superyacht of the week: AQUA

It has been speculated that Bill Gates, the American billionaire, has commissioned a hydrogen-powered superyacht that debuted at the Monaco yacht show in 2019. It has now been reported that Bill Gates, did not, in fact, commission this green-going superyacht and still remains available for investors.

Find out how you can charter a luxury crewed motor yacht!

Is the future going Green?

We have seen a trend in recent times towards electric and hybrid cars. Yachts are most definitely next in line to follow suit. We have even seen prototypes of electric planes starting (Read more about them here) so it’s about time we see some electric/hybrid boats on the market.

Lower your carbon footprint using our carbon offset calculator.

But what about this hydrogen-powered yacht?

Sinot has just released a statement that it was not Bill Gates who ordered the yachts commission. The yacht is still considered in its concept stage and therefore has not been produced for mainstream charter, although they welcome investors who “share the same vision”.

Aesthetics

It is hard to look past the prowess of this superyacht. Her flowing lines are reported to be inspired by ocean swells which is a salute to nature in its self. Her distinctive bow sets her apart from any other superyacht which is currently on the market. Not to mention her free-flowing aft deck space which features a waterfall!

Set over 5, meticulously appointed decks, AQUA is the definition of design ingenuity. From her furnishings to her engines, no part of AQUA has been overlooked or rushed. She utilizes space from her bow to her aft deck which descends into the water with nothing but elegance.

Check out our motor yachts and articles here!

It’s all happening at the aft

Probably one of our most favourite features on this yacht is her 2 deck aft space. AQUA’s top sun deck is partially shaded, with tables and a bar, you just cannot help but imagine yourself sipping on cocktails while marvelling at the French Riviera, or some other sought after cruising area.

On the deck below, you have what can only be described as heaven on earth. Her infinite-type pool cascades down and transforms into a water feature style waterfall. Step elegantly down the innovative series of steps down to the large sunbathing deck which allows guests sea-level access to the sea.

It doesn’t stop there… how about an onboard spa?

Sinots incredible engineering and design does not stop when you go below decks. Step through into a different world, a world of tranquil and peace. Wash away your day to day stresses as you immerse yourself in the onboard spa, complete with a massage room, and gymnasium.

Water is a natural healer, so it only makes sense that AQUA has a hydro-massage room which is exclusive to AQUA and discovered by the Romans. Massages administered by soothing, pressurized jets offer a relaxing, healing method that heals alleviate muscle and tissue damage.

The Masters Pavillion…

Worlds cannot do this justice, so here’s a glimpse of what to expect…

AQUA is not currently available to the charter market as she is still in her final stages of design. If there are features that you are particularly interested in, speak to one of our brokers so we are able to review yachts with similar characteristics so you too can enjoy the cruising world in luxury!

Posted on February 20, 2020 by Alice Newnham

You went to Croatia without a yacht!?

Thinking of visiting Croatia this summer? Undoubtedly, the only way to explore the Adriatic Coast is by yacht. For groups of friends, Croatia provides the perfect blend between partying and enjoying secluded, tranquil bays on your own yacht! There are over 2000 islands scattered around Croatia’s waters and a lot for charterers to explore! It has never been easier for groups to enjoy a yacht charter. With international flights and an increasing number of boats to choose from, a yacht charter has never been more accessible in the Mediterranean!

Having chartered in Croatia on both bareboat and crewed yachts, broker Alice provides her insights into the Adriatic Coast and how to get the best charter boat. You can choose from a bareboat catamaran or a sailing boat charter with or without your own captain and a fully crewed motor or crewed c a tamaran charter to explore Croatia.

Choosing the right boat

Monohull

A monohull charter provides the classic configuration of a yacht. These type of boats are perfect for those who love sailing and for smaller groups onboard. If you are wanting to charter bareboat for the first time, a monohull is a lot easier to navigate, sail and to moor up in ports as the boat is smaller. Monohulls also tend to be less expensive however they compromise on space and are generally less comfortable than a catamaran. If you are looking to charter a monohull in Croatia, a Hanse is the obvious choice.

Catamaran

A catamaran is the ultimate boat for a group of friends. Catamarans range in size and can accommodate up to groups of 14 people onboard. Catamarans have space on the bow and inside for relaxing. They also give additional space to get peace and quiet onboard. For larger groups, the Bali catamaran range is a great option as the brand has resigned the fleet to allow for more space on the bow for dining, sunbathing and relaxing. I would recommend adding a skipper to the charter if this is your first time bareboat charter on a catamaran. Most catamarans comprise of four double cabins with space for sleeping in the convertible saloon.

A boat with a skipper and a hostess?

For a more luxurious experience, whether you are a sailor or not, be sure to add a skipper and hostess to your charter. Sit back and relax whilst the skipper navigates you to the best kept secrets of the Adriatic Coast. Local knowledge in these parts of the world allows you to see areas such as empty bays, coves, the best anchorages and the best tips for unforgettable restaurants. Think of eating freshly caught octopus, cooked under a bell with local villagers.. this is the additional value of a skipper.

If you choose to add a hostess onto the charter too, this will typically enable you to have two meals per day onboard. Fresh, colourful lunches on deck followed by a swim are a key part of the charter. Note that if you do add a skipper and/ or hostess to the charter you are required to pay for their provisions during the charter.

Offshore Activities

Nightlife

Croatia is known to be the next Ibiza. The island of Hvar has many beach clubs for during the day and even has it’s own island for a night club, visit Carpe Diem island for a very unique nightlife experience. The streets are full of secret, underground bars for after hours. If nightlife isn’t for you but a few glasses of wine after dinner are, many quaint bars are also to be found in every village. The Croatian wine is a must- try, especially on the island of Vis where you can visit a vineyard to sample the latest production.

Nature

The nature you can expect in Croatia consists of natural waterfalls, blue and green caves surrounding Hvar, mountains and breathtaking scenery. There is also the option to dive on wrecks and reefs to explore some of the Mediterraneans sous-marine life. Visit the island Bol for hiking in vegetative mountains, Vis for its Blue Grotto and Mjat for its natural beauty. If you want a more scenic charter, be sure to visit the Kornati national park during the charter. A tip would be to go rafting on some of the waterfalls surrounding Split prior or following your yacht charter.

The Itinerary and Sailing

The Boatbookings brokers will help you plan an itinerary that will suit your group. The islands surrounding Split incorporate a blend of partying, climbing, cultural visits, swimming in secluded bays and even scuba diving. Either start your yacht charter from Split or Dubrovnik to find the best boats for exploring the Croatian islands.

See below some photographs of a Boatbookings broker trip to Croatia in 2019. First-hand experience of the sailing itinerary, best boats and restaurant recommendations enables the Boatbookings brokers to provide impartial charter knowledge.

Contact the Boatbookings team to plan your charter today!

Posted on February 18, 2020 by Alice Newnham

Step by step guide on how to understand your bareboat quote

This blog is to help you understand the bareboat quote when you receive a quote. I have provided a step by step to understand the quote and all the pricing.

Almost all bareboat operators work from an online platform where bareboat yachts are stored using live availability. We then sift through hundreds of yachts and suppliers to give you the most suitable yacht selection. The quote you will receive will probably look a lot like this:

So you have all this information…but what does it mean!?

You have the picture of the yacht, and next to that is the make/model of the yacht. Sometimes the yacht owners then add in brackets additions like “GEN, AC, WATERMAKER” which is simply listing elements/equipment that sets the yacht apart from others.
Above the yacht and the yacht model, you have the date. 9 times out of 10 it will be on a Saturday to Saturday this is just how the Mediterranean works. It’s the ‘change over day’ in the yachting world.
Under the title, you then have various bits of information like where the yachts home is “Base: Lavrion Main Port”, how many cabins, length, and prices etc.

Now for the fun bit…..Actually understanding on how to estimate your charter price: a heads up, it’s easier than you first think!

Step 1. Charter fee

The first number to look at is the number in green – in this case the price is: 6,935.00 €. This is your charter fee – the price to charter this yacht. This price will be inclusive of VAT, if it isn’t then we will tell you.

Step 2. Obligatory extras.

Obligatory extras are in addition to your charter fee and must be paid (normally at base). Security deposits are a pre-authorization on your credit card – just like what hotels do. Security deposits range from yacht type and whether you have hired a skipper or not. You are looking at around €2,000 euros – €4,000 euros on a monohull and up to €9,000 euros on catamarans.

A comfort pack is normally added to the charter fee which normally consists of linens, towels and some galley extras such as soaps and bin bags. Each yacht owner provides different bits in the comfort package so make sure you clarify with us so you know what to buy.

In this case, the charter fee is now €6,935.00 + €300 euros (Comfort pack) + €3,500 (Security deposit) = €10,735. Remember the €3,500 will be refunded providing that there is no damage to the yacht and that the €300 comfort pack will be paid in cash upon arrival.

4. Optional Extras

When you receive the quote you will see a button saying ‘more info’ on that link you will find pictures, yacht specifications like beam, loa, type of sail engine HP etc. Further down the page, you will come across a list of optional extras. These are all items you can add to your charter.

The optional extras are in addition to your charter fee/comfort package/security deposit and will always be paid in cash upon arrival. Some of Boatbookings favourite options are SUP boards and early check-in so you can leave the port the same day you get there…after all, you’ve travelled there to sail, right?!

5. Other payments to remember.

Sorting out the yacht fee, security deposits, obligatory and optional extras is done, the other elements you need to consider are the following:

Fuel. Dependant on yacht and weather. We recommend setting aside 250/500 euros for a 40ft monohull or a 40ft cat.
Food. Again, dependant. You could be big foodies or a lover of the canned tuna – it depends on how and what you want to eat. What I would say is to stock up on dry foods at the beginning of the week and stock up with fresh during the week. Bottom line is, It’s a weeks worth of food shopping for everyone onboard (including the skipper and host food)…and always, always remember to buy salt and pepper!
Port fees. Based on your yacht size and where your moor. If you’re in an anchorage it’s free, if you’re in a town quay, it’s normally free but you have to pay for electric and water. If you’re in a port/harbour/marina you will pay by ft. Normally between 5-10euros per ft.
Skipper/Host gratuity. We always recommend your skipper/host 10% of the charter fee*. Remember, the charter fee is in step 1, not charter fee + extras.

This should be enough information to get you started…as ever your Boatbookings Broker is here to help with any questions you may have!

Posted on February 11, 2020 by Alice Newnham