The history of the Virgin Islands, and in particular Tortola, is a fascinating and chequered one involving famous explorers, murderous pirates the slave trade and many changes in ownership. Even the origin of its name is up for debate. Many claim that Christopher Columbus, who discovered the archipelago of the Virgin Islands named the island Tortola after the Spanish word for Turtle Dove. The truth is much less romantic. He actually named it Santa Ana and its present name came after the later Dutch settlers named it Ter Tholen, after an island off the Netherlands. The British colonisers, not well known for their grasp of foreign language, changed it to Tortola.
Category Archives: Yachting news
Happy Christmas from Boatbookings!
Yay! It’s finally here, the day that we’ve all been waiting for where we can eat, drink and be merry with our families! I have been asked daily by my son when Father Christmas will be visiting, counting the days, minutes and hours! And finally this morning what a wonderful sight at 4am to see such an excited little boy ready to open his stocking! If the Christmas Season isn’t for you due to the cold weather and short days, look ahead to the summer and plan an incredible yacht charter to look forward too…
Celebrate and Honeymoon on BLOSSOM!
What could be more perfect than sailing island to island in the beautiful British Virgin Islands for your Honeymoon Charter?! The BVIs are one of the most beautiful cruising areas for a romantic getaway, the islands are so close together you have time to enjoy it all. Upon returning from the BVI Charter Show one of the catamarans that stood out amongst all the others, and would be perfect for a honeymoon yacht or just a romantic getaway, is the 48′ Leopard BLOSSOM! She really made a lasting impression on everyone and also came in 2nd place in Multihulls under 57′.
Phuket Kings Cup Regatta Report
The Kings Cup Regatta in Phuket is Asia’s biggest regatta, and has just completed its annual event in Phuket. The event really marks the start of high season for sailing around Phuket, with many Phuket charter yachts either watching or competing, and then being heavily booked on charters until the end of April.
Super Yacht of the Week: SILVER WIND
We go from the East to West Mediterranean this week with SILVER WIND, our latest Super Yacht of the Week. This ISA 140 luxury motor yacht was one of the standout yachts earlier this year during the Genoa Charter Show and we thoroughly recommend her for your charter next summer along the French & Italian Rivieras, as well as the magical island of Corsica.
