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

Dine at NOVA, Oil Nut Bay in the BVI

The British Virgin Islands remain the must-visit sailing mecca in 2020. With the finest selection of BVI crewed and bareboat catamarans in the Caribbean, you will be dazzled by hidden anchorages, spectacular snorkelling and unforgettable sunsets. Trust us, our Broker team keep coming back every year! We continue to review the best islands for your specific requirements, including the beach clubs, bars and restaurants.

Nova at Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda

You have to add NOVA at Oil Nut Bay in Virgin Gorda to your 2020 BVI yacht charter itinerary. Nova floats on top of the cerulean Virgin Islands water and is the perfect venue to bring family and friends together this winter. The philosophy is all-around sharing delicious small plates in an exquisite setting that’s both energizing and relaxing. You will be able to sample global dishes featuring the highest quality local ingredients that will dazzle your tastebuds.

Current Offers at Oil Nut Bay

WEEKDAY HAPPY HOUR
MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY 4:00PM – 6:00PM

3-for-$10 cans of Carib, Leatherback IPA and Stowford Press Cider
2-for-$12 Doombar Beer
Bottles of Peyrassol Rosé $30
Bottles of Taittinger Champagne $70
$5 off Special Flatbread

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Bloody Mary Bar: Bring a new hot sauce for the bar and receive your first Bloody Mary free
$5 Absolute Vodka
Bottles of Taittinger Champagne $70 includes fresh-squeezed citrus juice for mimosas

Oil Nut Bay is located at the far eastern tip of Virgin Gorda. Spend the morning swimming at The Baths, before sailing onto Oil Nut Bay for dinner. You can then spend the next day sailing up to Anegada for your lobster feast. We would highly recommend adding a stop to your BVI bareboat or crewed yacht charter itinerary this year. Speak to Ben in the Broker Team today to start planning the best BVI vacation to date!

Posted on February 22, 2020 by Ben Sutton

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