Charter boat options:
$7315 for one week, Jun 18-25 in Abacos. 3 cabin http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-393-pc-3-cabin-catamaran
$3949 ($3620 EUR) for one week in Nov '15, 40' Corinthian, Tortola, http://www.boatbureau.com/rent-boat-motorboat-corinthian-40-virgin-islands-tortola/
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Monday, May 25, 2015
comparing the island chains of the Bahamas
Abacos
Prices:
$900 = $1800 condo/2 families
$1150 = $2100 boat/2 families
$ 540 = 30gal/day * $6/gal * 6 days
$250 = $500 van/2famlies
$2280 airfare for 4
$5120 total trip (plus groceries, taxes, parking, luggage, souvenirs, etc)
boat rentals, $600/day for a 33 ft donzi. $350/day for a 27' Mako . Marsh Harbour. http://www.abacodoradoboatrentals.com/rates.html
$1650 one week 26 Dusky Guana Cay. http://www.diveguana.com/boatrentals.html
Van rental $425/week + 7.5% tax http://www.aandpautorentals.com/vans.html
flights:
$3200/week, 3brm, sleeps 6, beach front http://www.vrbo.com/436816 option to rent 13 ft boston whaler, canal allows deep water access irrelevant of tides.
$1000/week, 3brm, sleeps 6, not beach front http://www.vrbo.com/616595
$1800/week, 4brm, sleeps 8, beach front http://www.vrbo.com/294697
Things to do in The Abacos:
Abaco National Park, home to Bahamian Parrots: http://www.bnt.bs/The-National-Parks-of-The-Bahamas/Abaco-National-Park
Manjack Cay: Located about 30 boat-minutes north of Green Turtle Cay and dotted with a half-dozen superb beaches and secluded coves, Manjack is a virtually uninhabited island (as of August 2001 a total of just two very friendly foks live mostly full time on Munjack) full of charm, beauty and secrets ... and some of the most picturesque beaches in all The Abacos. Of all the Cays we really liked hanging around Manjack Cay. It is completely unpopulated and is maintained as a bird sanctuary, and it has some of the most beautiful beaches of all the Cays. It also had a wonderful pier that made visiting a breeze. Manjack is also home to a huge population of lizards. They are everywhere you look, and everywhere you don't look.
As it turned out, Treasure Cay had precious little to offer save for views of concrete condos and lots of pricey yachts.
Abacos' barrier reef is the 3rd largest in the world.
http://www.snorkelingonline.com/best-snorkeling-abacos-bahamas/
Hopetown Reef, Mermaid Reef, Marsh Harbour, Elbow Cay, etc.
- See more at: http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/bareboat_bahamas_itinerary.php#sthash.pezk7nVu.dpuf
Abacos Parrots: Abaco parrots. The only ground-nesting parrot species in the Bahamas. In the world, in fact. The flocks of parrots are incredibly noisy. Sometimes they split into two or three groups, close together, and seem to compete in raucousness. Around 5.00 pm seemed to be the noisiest time.
Turtles: The Bahamas has breeding populations of 5 of the world’s 7 sea turtle species – Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Leatherback and Kemp’s Ridley turtles (the other two are Olive Ridley – occasionally found in the Bahamas – and Flatback turtles).
The Bahamian species of Hutia is endemic to the Bahamas. It is listed as a vulnerable species. Its natural habitats are moist forests, dry shrubland and rocky areas. Hutias are a nocturnal species, remaining underground during the day.
Bahamas is a little more challenging than BVI but in Lots more places to go. If you hang around Marsh Harbor, it's similar to BVI in that there are lots of destinations with bars and moorings. Further south, it gets more remote.
Man-o-war Cay is a "dry island", no alcohol sold. Has a
The more popular rentals are 17 foot center consoles, but the weather we were able to handle on our daily trips to the various Cays exceeded what would be reasonable in a 17 footer. While the reefs are protective of the crossings at low tide and especially with a west wind, at high tide with an east wind the ocean just rolls right over the reefs, and if the weather is bad in the ocean it'll be at least that bad between Cays.
You can figure on getting about 3 miles a gallon in a 22 footer with single engine. If economy dictates you are to be land locked during your stay, you'll probably have the most flexibility staying on Green Turtle or Elbow Cay. Both have limited shopping, beautiful beaches, many suitable for snorkeling and lots of places to eat and stay. Pick up at least a 22 footer in Marsh Harbour upon arrival. We use Rainbow Rentals as they are at the harbours edge, making for a quick shout out of Dodge. We then trek north the 30 miles for Green Turtle for a few days then south to Hope Town for a few more using each as a base to see the surrounding cays.
Boat rental info from http://www.abacoescape.com/Boating/BoatRentCharter.html: Marsh Harbour - Chances are you'll arrive hear anyway, so save the water taxi fare to Hope Town, Man-O-War or Guana and rent a boat here. I usually rent from Rainbow Rentals the closest to the airport and because of the size and variety of his fleet. 242-367-4602. The owner is Wade Collins recently moved his operation just up the street -closer to the harbour entrance making for a quick getaway to the cays and avoiding the inner harbour no wake zone. They have a fleet of 22 footers, their staple, with full bimini tops to cover all seated not just a tee-top. They come equipped with two anchors, fresh water shower and VHF radio. It will pound a bit in a heavy chop. So for a smoother ride, they also provides Catamarans. If you can afford the extra price and an extra engines gas - go for it. They have the ability to slice through a choppy sea and smooth out your ride considerably. Rich's Rentals242-367-2742, has been in Marsh Harbour longer than I can remember and offers 21 and 26 foot boats which you'll see everywhere. Another very popular boat rental agency is Sea Horse Rentals right at the Boat Harbour Marina in Marsh. They also have facilities in Hope Town 242-367-2513. They offer a great variety of boats to choose from. It's owner is Capt. Stafford Patterson, of Captain Plug Adventures acclaim. Blue Wave Rental's boats are another common site in and around the Hub of Abacos. They are located at new facilities at The Harbour View Marina downtown and offer a fresh water swimming pool, bar & grill 242-367-3910. The newest agency you will find downtown in restaurant row is Abaco Dorado Boat Rentals 242-367-1035, a relatively new company offering Dusky 22's & 26's.
Man-O-War - If you are planning to stay on this cay you might want to look into Water Ways Boat Rentals owned and operated by Jay and Samantha Sands. They offers complimentary pick up from Hope Town to Marsh Harbour to Guana Cay in one of their Albury Bros. boats. And they can assist you with a rental property also. 242-365-6143.
Elbow Cay (Hope Town) - Just 5 min. outside of Hope Town Harbour on Parrot Cay is Island Marine Boat Rentals 242-366-0282. They will come pick you up anywhere on the Cay. And, they might ask you to take them home (it's not far). They have a large fleet of the Man-O-War Albury Bros. boats and boast to be the first rental boat company to offer them. 242-366-0282. Oh, the owner Dave Gale, has a fascinating story to tell -it's here. Already mentioned, Sea Horse Rentals has an office in Hope Town 242-367-2513. And finally there is the small fleet of new boats for rent at Cat's Paw Rentals run by Elbow Cay native Harold Malone 242-577-0517.
Bareboat itineraries in Abacos : http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/bareboat_bahamas_itinerary.php
Literature: Steve Dodge's Cruise Guide to the Abacos: http://www.amazon.com/The-Cruising-Guide-Abaco-Bahamas/dp/0932265936
Explorer Charts are the only ones to use. Hands down better than any other.
EXUMAS:
Exumas Land and Sea Park is even further North of Great Exuma, is a 22 mile chain of cays. it is 80 miles from Cat Island, 78 miles from Great Exuma.
Things to do in the Exumas as told by Fodors:
http://www.fodors.com/news/story_3856.html
Can rent a 3brm house with a 26ft boat for c$5944 which is $4833 USD. The house is immaculate and on a very scenic beach. http://www.vrbo.com/3319932ha
We were looking at $1750 for a 5 brm house in Eleuthera http://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalReview-g2156345-d2072076-or6-Parlay_At_Sunset_A_Bahamian_Beach_House-Tarpum_Bay_Eleuthera_Out_Islands_Bahamas.html#REVIEWS. Can't find a boat yet.
$2651 for a 3 brm house in Georgetown with an 18 ft boat with an 85hp yamaha. http://www.vrbo.com/986327ha
$6450/week or $1200/day FOUNTAINE PAJOT SUMMERLAND 40' POWER CATAMARAN http://www.cruiseabaco.com/#!rates/cyg
27 Ft contender $1000/day, 23 ft Contender $600/day Free boat delivery is to Compass Cay, Sampson Cay, Foul Cay, Staniel Cay, Black Point and Big Majors Spot. http://www.exumavacation.com/#!boat-rentals/cyg
Staniel Cay 57 miles North of Great Exuma, just south of pig beach.
boat rentals, 22ft boat, 200hp, $500/day: http://www.stanielrentals.com/boat-rentals.html
Staniel Cay $500/night 3brm house on the beach: http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p908092
Staniel Cay $3500/night, 3brm house on the beach http://www.vrbo.com/368700ha#reviews
Prices:
$900 = $1800 condo/2 families
$1150 = $2100 boat/2 families
$ 540 = 30gal/day * $6/gal * 6 days
$250 = $500 van/2famlies
$2280 airfare for 4
$5120 total trip (plus groceries, taxes, parking, luggage, souvenirs, etc)
boat rentals, $600/day for a 33 ft donzi. $350/day for a 27' Mako . Marsh Harbour. http://www.abacodoradoboatrentals.com/rates.html
$1650 one week 26 Dusky Guana Cay. http://www.diveguana.com/boatrentals.html
Van rental $425/week + 7.5% tax http://www.aandpautorentals.com/vans.html
flights:
$3200/week, 3brm, sleeps 6, beach front http://www.vrbo.com/436816 option to rent 13 ft boston whaler, canal allows deep water access irrelevant of tides.
$1000/week, 3brm, sleeps 6, not beach front http://www.vrbo.com/616595
$1800/week, 4brm, sleeps 8, beach front http://www.vrbo.com/294697
Things to do in The Abacos:
Abaco National Park, home to Bahamian Parrots: http://www.bnt.bs/The-National-Parks-of-The-Bahamas/Abaco-National-Park
Manjack Cay: Located about 30 boat-minutes north of Green Turtle Cay and dotted with a half-dozen superb beaches and secluded coves, Manjack is a virtually uninhabited island (as of August 2001 a total of just two very friendly foks live mostly full time on Munjack) full of charm, beauty and secrets ... and some of the most picturesque beaches in all The Abacos. Of all the Cays we really liked hanging around Manjack Cay. It is completely unpopulated and is maintained as a bird sanctuary, and it has some of the most beautiful beaches of all the Cays. It also had a wonderful pier that made visiting a breeze. Manjack is also home to a huge population of lizards. They are everywhere you look, and everywhere you don't look.
As it turned out, Treasure Cay had precious little to offer save for views of concrete condos and lots of pricey yachts.
Abacos' barrier reef is the 3rd largest in the world.
http://www.snorkelingonline.com/best-snorkeling-abacos-bahamas/
Hopetown Reef, Mermaid Reef, Marsh Harbour, Elbow Cay, etc.
Sandy Cay Anchor on the west of Sandy Cay during the day; from here you can access the reefs on the eastern side of the cay by dinghy. As part of the Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park these reefs are teeming with fish, plant and animal life that is all under protection. Known as the 'Most Photographed Island in the World,' this gorgeous 3 acre island off Nassau provided the backdrop shot for Gilligan's Island.
Abacos Parrots: Abaco parrots. The only ground-nesting parrot species in the Bahamas. In the world, in fact. The flocks of parrots are incredibly noisy. Sometimes they split into two or three groups, close together, and seem to compete in raucousness. Around 5.00 pm seemed to be the noisiest time.
Turtles: The Bahamas has breeding populations of 5 of the world’s 7 sea turtle species – Green, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Leatherback and Kemp’s Ridley turtles (the other two are Olive Ridley – occasionally found in the Bahamas – and Flatback turtles).
The Bahamian species of Hutia is endemic to the Bahamas. It is listed as a vulnerable species. Its natural habitats are moist forests, dry shrubland and rocky areas. Hutias are a nocturnal species, remaining underground during the day.
Bahamas is a little more challenging than BVI but in Lots more places to go. If you hang around Marsh Harbor, it's similar to BVI in that there are lots of destinations with bars and moorings. Further south, it gets more remote.
Man-o-war Cay is a "dry island", no alcohol sold. Has a
The more popular rentals are 17 foot center consoles, but the weather we were able to handle on our daily trips to the various Cays exceeded what would be reasonable in a 17 footer. While the reefs are protective of the crossings at low tide and especially with a west wind, at high tide with an east wind the ocean just rolls right over the reefs, and if the weather is bad in the ocean it'll be at least that bad between Cays.
You can figure on getting about 3 miles a gallon in a 22 footer with single engine. If economy dictates you are to be land locked during your stay, you'll probably have the most flexibility staying on Green Turtle or Elbow Cay. Both have limited shopping, beautiful beaches, many suitable for snorkeling and lots of places to eat and stay. Pick up at least a 22 footer in Marsh Harbour upon arrival. We use Rainbow Rentals as they are at the harbours edge, making for a quick shout out of Dodge. We then trek north the 30 miles for Green Turtle for a few days then south to Hope Town for a few more using each as a base to see the surrounding cays.
Boat rental info from http://www.abacoescape.com/Boating/BoatRentCharter.html: Marsh Harbour - Chances are you'll arrive hear anyway, so save the water taxi fare to Hope Town, Man-O-War or Guana and rent a boat here. I usually rent from Rainbow Rentals the closest to the airport and because of the size and variety of his fleet. 242-367-4602. The owner is Wade Collins recently moved his operation just up the street -closer to the harbour entrance making for a quick getaway to the cays and avoiding the inner harbour no wake zone. They have a fleet of 22 footers, their staple, with full bimini tops to cover all seated not just a tee-top. They come equipped with two anchors, fresh water shower and VHF radio. It will pound a bit in a heavy chop. So for a smoother ride, they also provides Catamarans. If you can afford the extra price and an extra engines gas - go for it. They have the ability to slice through a choppy sea and smooth out your ride considerably. Rich's Rentals242-367-2742, has been in Marsh Harbour longer than I can remember and offers 21 and 26 foot boats which you'll see everywhere. Another very popular boat rental agency is Sea Horse Rentals right at the Boat Harbour Marina in Marsh. They also have facilities in Hope Town 242-367-2513. They offer a great variety of boats to choose from. It's owner is Capt. Stafford Patterson, of Captain Plug Adventures acclaim. Blue Wave Rental's boats are another common site in and around the Hub of Abacos. They are located at new facilities at The Harbour View Marina downtown and offer a fresh water swimming pool, bar & grill 242-367-3910. The newest agency you will find downtown in restaurant row is Abaco Dorado Boat Rentals 242-367-1035, a relatively new company offering Dusky 22's & 26's.
Man-O-War - If you are planning to stay on this cay you might want to look into Water Ways Boat Rentals owned and operated by Jay and Samantha Sands. They offers complimentary pick up from Hope Town to Marsh Harbour to Guana Cay in one of their Albury Bros. boats. And they can assist you with a rental property also. 242-365-6143.
Elbow Cay (Hope Town) - Just 5 min. outside of Hope Town Harbour on Parrot Cay is Island Marine Boat Rentals 242-366-0282. They will come pick you up anywhere on the Cay. And, they might ask you to take them home (it's not far). They have a large fleet of the Man-O-War Albury Bros. boats and boast to be the first rental boat company to offer them. 242-366-0282. Oh, the owner Dave Gale, has a fascinating story to tell -it's here. Already mentioned, Sea Horse Rentals has an office in Hope Town 242-367-2513. And finally there is the small fleet of new boats for rent at Cat's Paw Rentals run by Elbow Cay native Harold Malone 242-577-0517.
Bareboat itineraries in Abacos : http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/bareboat_bahamas_itinerary.php
Literature: Steve Dodge's Cruise Guide to the Abacos: http://www.amazon.com/The-Cruising-Guide-Abaco-Bahamas/dp/0932265936
Explorer Charts are the only ones to use. Hands down better than any other.
EXUMAS:
Exumas Land and Sea Park is even further North of Great Exuma, is a 22 mile chain of cays. it is 80 miles from Cat Island, 78 miles from Great Exuma.
Things to do in the Exumas as told by Fodors:
http://www.fodors.com/news/story_3856.html
- 1/2 day tour from Great Exuma to the Pig beach $150/person: http://www.exumawatersports.com/tours.htm#oceansafari
Can rent a 3brm house with a 26ft boat for c$5944 which is $4833 USD. The house is immaculate and on a very scenic beach. http://www.vrbo.com/3319932ha
We were looking at $1750 for a 5 brm house in Eleuthera http://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalReview-g2156345-d2072076-or6-Parlay_At_Sunset_A_Bahamian_Beach_House-Tarpum_Bay_Eleuthera_Out_Islands_Bahamas.html#REVIEWS. Can't find a boat yet.
$2651 for a 3 brm house in Georgetown with an 18 ft boat with an 85hp yamaha. http://www.vrbo.com/986327ha
$6450/week or $1200/day FOUNTAINE PAJOT SUMMERLAND 40' POWER CATAMARAN http://www.cruiseabaco.com/#!rates/cyg
27 Ft contender $1000/day, 23 ft Contender $600/day Free boat delivery is to Compass Cay, Sampson Cay, Foul Cay, Staniel Cay, Black Point and Big Majors Spot. http://www.exumavacation.com/#!boat-rentals/cyg
Staniel Cay 57 miles North of Great Exuma, just south of pig beach.
boat rentals, 22ft boat, 200hp, $500/day: http://www.stanielrentals.com/boat-rentals.html
Staniel Cay $500/night 3brm house on the beach: http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p908092
Staniel Cay $3500/night, 3brm house on the beach http://www.vrbo.com/368700ha#reviews
Friday, May 15, 2015
bareboat costs
$4750 Boat $9500/2 families
$2056 Airfare to St Thomas, fast ferry to Tortola
$600 fuel for 7 days ( 8gph * 100 miles / 8 mph ) $6/gal =
$300 sleep aboard for the 1st night before cruising anywhere ($75/person)
$420 = mooring at anchorage $60 * 7 nights
$8126 Total
Flight info: "Many visitors to the Virgin Islands fly free using their frequent flyer miles. Free flights into Tortola can be hard to come by as the airlines only allocate a few seats every day on small commuter-style prop-driven aircraft. This can be particularly challenging if you are trying to fly an entire family or group in using frequent flyer miles. Also, the airport on Beef Island, Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, is considered an international destination for many programs requiring the redemption of double points. There is a way around this.
Book your flight into St. Thomas and take the ferry across to Tortola. There are many flights a day from a number of major cities served by several major airlines, hence a better chance to book a free flight. If all of the flights to St. Thomas are booked, an alternative is book your free flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Then book and pay for a round trip commuter flight to and from Beef Island. The current fare is about $200 round trip with conveniently timed connections. After paying cab and ferry fares, this alternative can, at times, be more cost and time e!ective than booking a free flight directly to St. Thomas and taking the ferry."
Flights to Road Town: $8924 flights for 4 people, 2 plane changes, 10 hours each way through priceline.com
Flights to San Juan are $400/person, if you get on a plane at 6a at DCA, you can be in San Juan by 1p with a stop in Miami. If we fly Friday instead, We can get a flight from 5:42p (after school) to midnight for $450.
There is a $280/person flight San Juan to Tortola (EIS) but it is 10a to 10:45a, would require an overnight in San Juan ($180 for Fortaleza Suites). So:
$450 * 4 + 180 + 280 * 4 = $3100
Flights to St Thomas through US AIR are $556/person and leave BWI at 8a or American flight from DCA at 6a , arrive STT at 1:35p. Then we have to Ferry to Tortola. Ferry Charlotte Amalie, St Tomas to Road Town Tortola Mon-Sat runs 4:15p- 5:05p for $60/person round trip. To come home we'd be back in Road Town with the yacht and Ferries leave at 9a and 2:30p : http://www.tortolafastferry.com/schedule.html
Flights out of STT leave at 2:35p on US AIR to BWI, or 4:00p on American to DCA.
$456 * 4 + $60 * 4 = $2056.
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$2056 Airfare to St Thomas, fast ferry to Tortola
$600 fuel for 7 days ( 8gph * 100 miles / 8 mph ) $6/gal =
$300 sleep aboard for the 1st night before cruising anywhere ($75/person)
$420 = mooring at anchorage $60 * 7 nights
$8126 Total
Flight info: "Many visitors to the Virgin Islands fly free using their frequent flyer miles. Free flights into Tortola can be hard to come by as the airlines only allocate a few seats every day on small commuter-style prop-driven aircraft. This can be particularly challenging if you are trying to fly an entire family or group in using frequent flyer miles. Also, the airport on Beef Island, Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, is considered an international destination for many programs requiring the redemption of double points. There is a way around this.
Book your flight into St. Thomas and take the ferry across to Tortola. There are many flights a day from a number of major cities served by several major airlines, hence a better chance to book a free flight. If all of the flights to St. Thomas are booked, an alternative is book your free flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Then book and pay for a round trip commuter flight to and from Beef Island. The current fare is about $200 round trip with conveniently timed connections. After paying cab and ferry fares, this alternative can, at times, be more cost and time e!ective than booking a free flight directly to St. Thomas and taking the ferry."
Flights to Road Town: $8924 flights for 4 people, 2 plane changes, 10 hours each way through priceline.com
Flights to San Juan are $400/person, if you get on a plane at 6a at DCA, you can be in San Juan by 1p with a stop in Miami. If we fly Friday instead, We can get a flight from 5:42p (after school) to midnight for $450.
There is a $280/person flight San Juan to Tortola (EIS) but it is 10a to 10:45a, would require an overnight in San Juan ($180 for Fortaleza Suites). So:
$450 * 4 + 180 + 280 * 4 = $3100
Flights to St Thomas through US AIR are $556/person and leave BWI at 8a or American flight from DCA at 6a , arrive STT at 1:35p. Then we have to Ferry to Tortola. Ferry Charlotte Amalie, St Tomas to Road Town Tortola Mon-Sat runs 4:15p- 5:05p for $60/person round trip. To come home we'd be back in Road Town with the yacht and Ferries leave at 9a and 2:30p : http://www.tortolafastferry.com/schedule.html
Flights out of STT leave at 2:35p on US AIR to BWI, or 4:00p on American to DCA.
$456 * 4 + $60 * 4 = $2056.
Anegada is not off limits, but you need to make your briefer aware that you wish to go there. At that time you will be given permission to go, dependent upon your experience.
What itinerary or schedule would you recommend?
Tortola – Peter Island – Cooper Island – Virgin Gorda – Monkey Point – Jost Van Dyke – Norman Island – Tortola. Please check our sample itinerary for full details.
Are there any mooring fees?
Yes, the majority of bays in the BVI provide overnight mooring balls to help protect the waters around the BVI. Cost ranges from $25 – $65 per night.
We do not advise that you drink tap water. Bottled water is widely available.
Where can we get provisioning?
You can provision in Bobby’s, Nanny Cay Marina and Riteways in Road Town.
Is there a Departure Tax
Yes. US$20 is payable per person (over 12 years of age) at the airport. Departure tax is US$15 if leaving by ferry for St Thomas.
boating with kids
Lots of good info out there. Everyone says it is a great idea to take kids on a charter boat in the Virgin Islands.
"As in all aspects of chartering, preparation is key. Talk with your kids so they’ll know what to expect regarding getting wet, moving around the boat, sharing with siblings, and safety onboard."
"Most kids will enjoy time ashore more than time underway. Many consider the voyage as a necessary means to an end (getting to the beach), so try to keep passages short. All charter itineraries should be flexible enough to accommodate inclement weather (or maintenance issues), or to linger in a favorite spot – this is especially true when chartering with kids. For a week-long charter, Hedy & Jim recommend building in a land day where the boat stays put, so you can dedicate time to shore excursions. Your kids will have ample opportunity to swim, snorkel, build sand castles, go fishing, clamber over rocks and explore pirate caves, hike to lookouts, chase chickens and goats, and search for seashells. What’s not to love?"
" Don’t try to pack every activity and destination into the first charter. Families are over-scheduled as it is; give yours a chance to relax and play together." Connie didn't read this, it doesn't exist.
"We were not surprised to discover that bareboat sailing vacations do resemble camper trips in a number of ways -- the challenges and benefits of a confined but mobile living space, and getting to spend much of one's time outdoors."
http://www.visailing.com/articles/BVI-Sailing-Vacation-With-Kids.php
"I had three main concerns. First, would they be bored without their television, GameBoys and Playstations? Second, would the normal sibling spats escalate being in a relatively confined space 24/7? And finally, how would they handle different foods when they primarily subsisted on pizza and buttered noodles? I did not need to worry"
"The kids loved exploring pirate caves on Norman Island, jumping off the Willie T at the Bight, and snorkeling for hours around the Indians."
"The crossing to Marina Cay was occupied by learning to man the helm, plotting a course on a chart, and playing hide and seek on the Cat"
"They delighted in playing in the sand at the Beach Club of Cooper Island, chasing goats on Peter Island and swimming with the sea turtles in Great Harbour."
"Days were spent snorkeling, swimming, jumping on the trampoline of the Cat, cannon-balling off the aft, telling pirate stories and making up pirate names for each of us. Playing boule and singing with the donkey at Dick’s Last Resort, searching for iguanas, and exploring various coves while learning to steer a dingy were also a great hit."
"My husband and I have spent many vacations with them, but this was definitely the best"
""I too was nervous after booking a one week bareboat charter for myself, my wife and three children. The kids were 5,4 and a few months old at the time. We had all of the pre vacation jitters as many others, but once we checked in at Sunsail and got on the boat the kids were already having a great time. They never said they were bored or that they wanted to watch TV. We had a great time for the entire week, and the kids were already asking when we can go back as soon as we left the boat. Needless to to say, I'm looking forward to next years three week charter with the family!! If you're not sure about bringing the kids ... BRING THEM!!!" "
http://www.powerandmotoryacht.com/charter/bareboat-charter-means-family-fun
"Lifejackets or PFDs are essential, but how and when you require them is up to each parent and depends, to some extent, on the age of the youngsters. For one family I know, all the preteens have the run of the enclosed cockpit and the cabin without lifejackets. Set one foot on deck, however, and the lifejacket rule is in force. The adults can set a good example by wearing their own PFDs so the kids don’t feel like outcasts."
"While having lots of soft drinks is a popular idea, make sure you have gallon jugs of bottled water. The water on most charter boats isn’t particularly tasty for drinking, and kids need to stay hydrated"
"Snorkeling is a great part of bareboating, but let the kids try it out first in the shallow water on a beach. Not only does it feel more secure when they can put their feet down, but it’s a lot easier to adjust masks and flippers in shallow water."
" was desperate to get off the catamaran her family was sailing with friends. "This isn't a vacation," she said. She was desperate for air conditioning and a real bed."
"Many of our clients ask us if it's a good idea to bring the kids along on a yacht charter - not just for the obvious safety reasons, but because they're worried the kids will feel cooped up on the boat and ruin the vacation for kids and parents alike. These are valid concerns, but from our experience this is rarely the case, in fact children love being on a yacht, learn to respect the rules of the boat, and are normally better behaved because they are entranced by the experience. Simply put, kids love boats! - See more at: http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/charter_with_children.php#sthash.xwFVsjh7.dpuf"
The Riteway market, just across the road from BVI Charters, is now a superstore the size of a warehouse. They stock just about anything you could want including many gourmet items. The store is impressive, even by our US standards.
"As in all aspects of chartering, preparation is key. Talk with your kids so they’ll know what to expect regarding getting wet, moving around the boat, sharing with siblings, and safety onboard."
"Most kids will enjoy time ashore more than time underway. Many consider the voyage as a necessary means to an end (getting to the beach), so try to keep passages short. All charter itineraries should be flexible enough to accommodate inclement weather (or maintenance issues), or to linger in a favorite spot – this is especially true when chartering with kids. For a week-long charter, Hedy & Jim recommend building in a land day where the boat stays put, so you can dedicate time to shore excursions. Your kids will have ample opportunity to swim, snorkel, build sand castles, go fishing, clamber over rocks and explore pirate caves, hike to lookouts, chase chickens and goats, and search for seashells. What’s not to love?"
" Don’t try to pack every activity and destination into the first charter. Families are over-scheduled as it is; give yours a chance to relax and play together.
"We were not surprised to discover that bareboat sailing vacations do resemble camper trips in a number of ways -- the challenges and benefits of a confined but mobile living space, and getting to spend much of one's time outdoors."
http://www.visailing.com/articles/BVI-Sailing-Vacation-With-Kids.php
"I had three main concerns. First, would they be bored without their television, GameBoys and Playstations? Second, would the normal sibling spats escalate being in a relatively confined space 24/7? And finally, how would they handle different foods when they primarily subsisted on pizza and buttered noodles? I did not need to worry"
"The kids loved exploring pirate caves on Norman Island, jumping off the Willie T at the Bight, and snorkeling for hours around the Indians."
"The crossing to Marina Cay was occupied by learning to man the helm, plotting a course on a chart, and playing hide and seek on the Cat"
"They delighted in playing in the sand at the Beach Club of Cooper Island, chasing goats on Peter Island and swimming with the sea turtles in Great Harbour."
"Days were spent snorkeling, swimming, jumping on the trampoline of the Cat, cannon-balling off the aft, telling pirate stories and making up pirate names for each of us. Playing boule and singing with the donkey at Dick’s Last Resort, searching for iguanas, and exploring various coves while learning to steer a dingy were also a great hit."
"My husband and I have spent many vacations with them, but this was definitely the best"
""I too was nervous after booking a one week bareboat charter for myself, my wife and three children. The kids were 5,4 and a few months old at the time. We had all of the pre vacation jitters as many others, but once we checked in at Sunsail and got on the boat the kids were already having a great time. They never said they were bored or that they wanted to watch TV. We had a great time for the entire week, and the kids were already asking when we can go back as soon as we left the boat. Needless to to say, I'm looking forward to next years three week charter with the family!! If you're not sure about bringing the kids ... BRING THEM!!!" "
http://www.powerandmotoryacht.com/charter/bareboat-charter-means-family-fun
"Lifejackets or PFDs are essential, but how and when you require them is up to each parent and depends, to some extent, on the age of the youngsters. For one family I know, all the preteens have the run of the enclosed cockpit and the cabin without lifejackets. Set one foot on deck, however, and the lifejacket rule is in force. The adults can set a good example by wearing their own PFDs so the kids don’t feel like outcasts."
"While having lots of soft drinks is a popular idea, make sure you have gallon jugs of bottled water. The water on most charter boats isn’t particularly tasty for drinking, and kids need to stay hydrated"
"Snorkeling is a great part of bareboating, but let the kids try it out first in the shallow water on a beach. Not only does it feel more secure when they can put their feet down, but it’s a lot easier to adjust masks and flippers in shallow water."
" was desperate to get off the catamaran her family was sailing with friends. "This isn't a vacation," she said. She was desperate for air conditioning and a real bed."
"Many of our clients ask us if it's a good idea to bring the kids along on a yacht charter - not just for the obvious safety reasons, but because they're worried the kids will feel cooped up on the boat and ruin the vacation for kids and parents alike. These are valid concerns, but from our experience this is rarely the case, in fact children love being on a yacht, learn to respect the rules of the boat, and are normally better behaved because they are entranced by the experience. Simply put, kids love boats! - See more at: http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/charter_with_children.php#sthash.xwFVsjh7.dpuf"
Make the sailing distances short. This reduces the chances of boredom leading to mischeif. Insetad of a 4 hours sail, do two 2 hour sails, stopping on a beach to run around and play in between.
Bring plenty of Beach and Water Toys. If possible, rent a kayak and or a paddle board, they'll love the freedom (they should always go out in twos and wear life jackets, of course). Make sure their snorkeling equipment fits and works, and that they've practiced breathing at home (even if it's in a bath tub). It's hard to teach how to use a snorkel in the wavy salt water.
- See more at: http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/charter_with_children.php#sthash.xwFVsjh7.dpufThe Riteway market, just across the road from BVI Charters, is now a superstore the size of a warehouse. They stock just about anything you could want including many gourmet items. The store is impressive, even by our US standards.
bvi tour plans
http://www.sailhuron.com/trip.htm has a tour plan
http://www.bananarepublican.info/BVI_Tour_2002.htm has 5 tour plans
http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/bvi_itinerary.php has a tour plan
http://www.cruisingthevirginislands.com/c/itineraries has 3 tour plans (7 day each)
http://horizonyachtcharters.com/bvi/itineraries/
BVI Excursion Day 1- Norman Island, the Caves, The Bight
BVI Excursion Day 2- The Indians, Peter Island, Salt Island and Cooper Island
BVI Excursion Day 3 - Virgin Gorda, The Baths & Gorda Sound
BVI Excursion Day 4 - The Dogs, Beef Island & Marina Cay
BVI Excursion Day 5 - Guana Island and Jost Van Dyke
BVI Excursion Day 6 - Sandy Spit & Soper's Hole
Day 1: Nanny Cay (Tortola) to The Bight (Norman Island).Day 2: The Bight (Norman Island) to Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) via Sopers Hole (Tortola).Day 3: Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) to Marina Cay.Day 4: Marina Cay to Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) via The Baths (Virgin Gorda).Day 5: Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) to Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via White Bay (Jost Van Dyke).Day 6: Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to Little Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via Sandy Spit.Day 7: Little Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to Nanny Cay (Tortola) via The Bight (Norman Island).
Day 1: Road Harbor (Tortola) to Trellis Bay (Tortola).Day 2: Trellis Bay (Tortola) to Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) via Monkey Point (Guana Island) (snorkeling).Day 3: Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) to Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via Sandy Cay (snorkeling) and White Bay (drinking).Day 4: Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to The Bight (Norman Island) via Sopers Hole (Tortola).Day 5: The Bight (Norman Island) to Marina Cay via The Indians (snorkeling).Day 6: Marina Cay to Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) via The Baths (Gorda Sound).Day 7: Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) to Road Harbor (Tortola).
Day 1 - Road Town to the Bight, Norman Island.Highights - The Caves, The Indians, Willy T's - Day 2 - Norman Island to Cooper Island (or Marina Cay)
Highlight - the Wreck of the Rhone - Day 3 - Cooper Island to the Baths, and then to the Bitter End, Virgin Gorda
Highlight - the Baths, The Bitter End Yacht Club - Day 4 - Virgin Gorda to Beef Island (or Anegada)
Highlight - the Lobsters on Anegada or Dancing at "the Last Resort" - Day 5 - Beef Island to Sandy Spit to Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke Highlights - Sandy Spit, Foxy's, Soggy Dollar Bar - Day 6 - Jost Van Dyke to Peter Island
Highlights - Deadmans Bay Beach, Sea Turtles, Peter Island Resort - Day 7 - Peter Island to Road Town, Tortola
Road Reef Marina, Tortola, to Sope's Hole Tortola is 4 miles
Soper's Hole to Jost Van Dyke is 6.16 miles as the crow flies
Jost Van Dyke to Dog Islands is 18 miles as the crow flies
Dog Island to Saba Rock is 7 miles
Saba Rock to Peter Island is 18 miles
Peter Island to Norman Island (The Bight, The Indians, the Caves) is 4 miles as the crow flies.
http://www.bananarepublican.info/BVI_Tour_2002.htm has 5 tour plans
http://www.boatbookings.com/yachting_content/bvi_itinerary.php has a tour plan
http://www.cruisingthevirginislands.com/c/itineraries has 3 tour plans (7 day each)
http://horizonyachtcharters.com/bvi/itineraries/
BVI Excursion Day 1- Norman Island, the Caves, The Bight
BVI Excursion Day 2- The Indians, Peter Island, Salt Island and Cooper Island
BVI Excursion Day 3 - Virgin Gorda, The Baths & Gorda Sound
BVI Excursion Day 4 - The Dogs, Beef Island & Marina Cay
BVI Excursion Day 5 - Guana Island and Jost Van Dyke
BVI Excursion Day 6 - Sandy Spit & Soper's Hole
Day 1: Nanny Cay (Tortola) to The Bight (Norman Island).Day 2: The Bight (Norman Island) to Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) via Sopers Hole (Tortola).Day 3: Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) to Marina Cay.Day 4: Marina Cay to Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) via The Baths (Virgin Gorda).Day 5: Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) to Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via White Bay (Jost Van Dyke).Day 6: Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to Little Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via Sandy Spit.Day 7: Little Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to Nanny Cay (Tortola) via The Bight (Norman Island).
Day 1: Road Harbor (Tortola) to Trellis Bay (Tortola).Day 2: Trellis Bay (Tortola) to Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) via Monkey Point (Guana Island) (snorkeling).Day 3: Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) to Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) via Sandy Cay (snorkeling) and White Bay (drinking).Day 4: Great Harbour (Jost Van Dyke) to The Bight (Norman Island) via Sopers Hole (Tortola).Day 5: The Bight (Norman Island) to Marina Cay via The Indians (snorkeling).Day 6: Marina Cay to Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) via The Baths (Gorda Sound).Day 7: Gorda Sound (Virgin Gorda) to Road Harbor (Tortola).
Day 1 - Road Town to the Bight, Norman Island.Highights - The Caves, The Indians, Willy T's - Day 2 - Norman Island to Cooper Island (or Marina Cay)
Highlight - the Wreck of the Rhone - Day 3 - Cooper Island to the Baths, and then to the Bitter End, Virgin Gorda
Highlight - the Baths, The Bitter End Yacht Club - Day 4 - Virgin Gorda to Beef Island (or Anegada)
Highlight - the Lobsters on Anegada or Dancing at "the Last Resort" - Day 5 - Beef Island to Sandy Spit to Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke Highlights - Sandy Spit, Foxy's, Soggy Dollar Bar - Day 6 - Jost Van Dyke to Peter Island
Highlights - Deadmans Bay Beach, Sea Turtles, Peter Island Resort - Day 7 - Peter Island to Road Town, Tortola
Soper's Hole: Has the real Pussers, can get a bucket of bushwackers, good place to reprovision,
The Bight, Norman Island:
Little Dead Man's beach, Peter Island, accessible only by boat:Road Reef Marina, Tortola, to Sope's Hole Tortola is 4 miles
Soper's Hole to Jost Van Dyke is 6.16 miles as the crow flies
Jost Van Dyke to Dog Islands is 18 miles as the crow flies
Dog Island to Saba Rock is 7 miles
Saba Rock to Peter Island is 18 miles
Peter Island to Norman Island (The Bight, The Indians, the Caves) is 4 miles as the crow flies.
Friday, March 27, 2015
the boats
52 ft power cat $8400 in june http://virgintraders.com/yachts/1/powercat/
2 x 55hp motors, a/c. rate is for mid june, is $10660 for spring break
Leopard 46 sail cat $11690/wk http://www.viyachts.com/bareboats/footloose/index.php
Leopard 47 power cat $9500/wk on spring break, or $8400/week in mid-June (Rates do not include: BVI cruising tax, National Parks permit, V.I.S.A.R. donation, yacht insurance, fuel or provisioning) http://www.bareboatsbvi.com/motor_yacht_leopard_47_powercat.html our fave so far:
Yacht Location: Caribbean
Charter Base: Road Reef Marina,
Tortola, BVI
Name: Oaseas & Happy Hours
Year: 2007
Hull Type: Catamaran
Cabins: 4 Double Berths
Sleeps: 8 to 11
LOA: 47'3"
Beam: 24'10"
Draft: 3' 1"
Engine: Cummins 250hp x 2
Fuel: 317 Gals.
Water: 320 Gals.
Heads: 5
Showers: 5 + F.W. Transom Shower
Aft Berth Sizes: 5'5" x 6'6"
Fwd Berth Sizes: 5'5" x 6'6"
Crew Berth: 2'8" x 6'6"
Salon Conversion: Double
9 kw Generator
Air Conditioning
Electric Windlass
Speed & Depth Instruments
GPS
Chartplotter
Autopilot
Inverter
Flat Screen TV
DVD Player
Free onboard Wi-Fi
AM/FM Radio
CD Player
Cockpit & Flybridge Speakers
VHF Radio
Cellular Phone
Front Opening Refrigerator
Front Opening Freezer
3 Burner Stove & Oven
Blender, Toaster & Coffeemaker
Microwave
Double Stainless Steel Sink
Hot & Cold Water
Cabin fans
Hard Top Over Flybridge
Hard Top over Cockpit
Flybridge Wet Bar
Hi-Low Table in Main Salon
Swim Platform with Ladder
Propane BBQ
12' RIB Dinghy & 15hp motor
Dinghy Davits
Moorings 51.4 ft power cat $18k/wk: http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-514-pc-4-cabin-catamaran
- Full Air-Conditioning all Cabins
- Twin 20' Fishing Outriggers
- Electric Dinghy Crane
- LOA: 52'
- Beam: 17'
- Draft: 3'8"
- Engines: Twin Yanmar 350's
- Diesel Fuel: 400 Gallons
- Hull Type: Twin Hulls Catamaran
- Heads: 2 Manual
- Genset: 12Kw
- (8) Dive Tank Holder Rack
- Electricity: 110 &12 Volt
- 12ft Dinghy with 15hp
| |||||||
Type: | Bare Boat | ||||||
Location/Period: | Tortola, BVI from 18 Jun 2017 to 25 Jun 2017 Total of days: 7 days | ||||||
Layout: | 4 cabins/4 head(s)/2 single(s) | ||||||
Make: | 2011 Salina 48 evolution | ||||||
| |||||||
CYOA Yacht Charters Helia 44 - Wide Ranger $11,000/wk hi season http://www.viyachts.com/bareboats/cyoa/helia44.php
Leopard 46 sail cat $11690/wk http://www.viyachts.com/bareboats/footloose/index.php
Leopard 47 power cat $9500/wk on spring break, or $8400/week in mid-June (Rates do not include: BVI cruising tax, National Parks permit, V.I.S.A.R. donation, yacht insurance, fuel or provisioning) http://www.bareboatsbvi.com/motor_yacht_leopard_47_powercat.html our fave so far:
Yacht Location: Caribbean
Charter Base: Road Reef Marina,
Tortola, BVI
Name: Oaseas & Happy Hours
Year: 2007
Hull Type: Catamaran
Cabins: 4 Double Berths
Sleeps: 8 to 11
LOA: 47'3"
Beam: 24'10"
Draft: 3' 1"
Engine: Cummins 250hp x 2
Fuel: 317 Gals.
Water: 320 Gals.
Heads: 5
Showers: 5 + F.W. Transom Shower
Aft Berth Sizes: 5'5" x 6'6"
Fwd Berth Sizes: 5'5" x 6'6"
Crew Berth: 2'8" x 6'6"
Salon Conversion: Double
9 kw Generator
Air Conditioning
Electric Windlass
Speed & Depth Instruments
GPS
Chartplotter
Autopilot
Inverter
Flat Screen TV
DVD Player
Free onboard Wi-Fi
AM/FM Radio
CD Player
Cockpit & Flybridge Speakers
VHF Radio
Cellular Phone
Front Opening Refrigerator
Front Opening Freezer
3 Burner Stove & Oven
Blender, Toaster & Coffeemaker
Microwave
Double Stainless Steel Sink
Hot & Cold Water
Cabin fans
Hard Top Over Flybridge
Hard Top over Cockpit
Flybridge Wet Bar
Hi-Low Table in Main Salon
Swim Platform with Ladder
Propane BBQ
12' RIB Dinghy & 15hp motor
Dinghy Davits
Moorings 51.4 ft power cat $18k/wk: http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-514-pc-4-cabin-catamaran
Moorings 47 ft power cat $14k/wk: http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-474-pc-4-cabin-catamaran
Moorings 40 ft sail cat $9400/wk http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-4000-4-cabin-catamaran: Is booked for all of March (at least March doesn't show up on the calendar). For mid-June:
10
Cabins
4
Toilets
2
Showers
3
Length Overall
11.99m
Beam
6.72m
Draft
1.25m
Sail Area
95.9m2
Water Capacity
780L
Engine
Yanmar x2
Fuel Capacity
360L
Moorings 40 ft sail cat $9400/wk http://www.moorings.com/charter-fleet/moorings-4000-4-cabin-catamaran: Is booked for all of March (at least March doesn't show up on the calendar). For mid-June:
BOOKING SUMMARY
Tortola Sailing Yacht Charter
Max Passengers
18 June 2016
7 nights
8 passengers
Moorings 4000 – 4 Cabin Catamaran | $7,245.00 |
Insurance | |
---|---|
Yacht Damage Waiver - 41-52' | $399.00 |
Taxes & Fees | |
---|---|
VISAR Contribution* | $16.00 |
Cruising Tax - Summer* | $42.00 |
BVI National Park Fee | $25.00 |
Crew | |
---|---|
Hire a Skipper | $1,295.00 |
Total$9,022.00 |
44 ft sail cat $6403 + captain.
http://www.sunsail.com/fleet/sunsail-444-4-cabin-catamaran-yacht
http://www.sunsail.com/fleet/sunsail-444-4-cabin-catamaran-yacht
The picture above of the stern deck does not match the other views of this boat.
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