Saturday, October 4, 2008

Trawler Charters

Trawler Charters

A trawler is a very stable and comfortable yacht.  Trawler charters are a great way to experience some of the beautiful tropical islands and coastline our earth has to offer.  You can charter a trawler almost anywhere you can think of.  Just imagine sailing in areas of the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Florida coastline, the Bahamas and the even up in the Pacific Northwest.

Trawler charters have several sizes to choose from.  The 43 foot trawler has all the amenities and power to suit most people's needs.  Your time aboard is guaranteed to be luxurious with a large main salon and full galley.  The flybridge is also large and welcoming and a great place to relax under the large bimini cover.

As many as three couples or a large family would comfortable accommodated.  The three staterooms and two heads, each with its own shower would allow everyone there own space.  For recreation, there is an aft deck for sunbathing or fishing. There you will find a large swim platform accessible by the expansive transom door.

A luxury trawler charter is unlike any other vacation and would rate at the top of your list of travels. To insure a successful trip there is a certain amount of planning involved.  Travel to and from the location of the vessel would have to be coordinated.  Some chartering companies will do this for you for an extra fee.

If you are an experienced sailor you may want to do a bareboat charter.  You would be able to pilot the trawler yourself.  The chartering company would have to review your sailing resume.  If you qualify this is a great way to save.

If you are not an experienced sailor or just want to relax and let the captain do the sailing there are plenty of excellent captains willing to sail your trawler for you.   You will be able to enjoy the pleasures of a boat cruise without having to operate the vessel yourself.  The captain would retain responsibility for the vessel.  There is usually an advanced payment required to book any trawler charter.

The captains will follow a pre-planned itinerary, although you can request to alter it a bit, time allowing.  He is very familiar with all the ports of call and will recommend things to do and direct you to points of interest or restaurants where you can enjoy a meal ashore.

If you rent a trawler charter in the Pacific Northwest you would enjoy sailing around the multitude of islands in that area.  There is tons of wildlife to experience and photograph.  The Pugent Sound is home to bear, whales, deer and eagles.  The fishing and crabbin is amazing.  Dine on your own fresh catch in the evening after a day of recreation.

You can take advantage of the galley and dining facilities onboard or go ashore for a meal.  To further experience the local flavor, at your own expense, you may want to spend a night ashore on one of the many islands you will be visiting.

Common trawler charters charges would be: the fully equipped trawler, all the linens and towels, the captain, free use of the galley, as well as fuel and dock fees.  Any restaurants or hotels ashore as well as taxes are extra.  You are allowed to bring your own food and beverages and use the galley.

Get more information on yacht charters visit Hawaii Yacht Charters

Thursday, October 2, 2008

A part of History - The refitting of Lord Jim

As a yacht Captain, returning home to Australia from the Mediterranean, Caribbean and the USA for the past seven years, I quickly found work at Brisbane Ship Yard refitting a large sloop.

A young English Captain approached me about a British Flagged yacht called "Lord Jim", which was leaving after three years, He then joined as a deck hand and ended up as the only person left on board after crossing the ocean.

The Boat was at Able Point Marina. Whitsundays, Queensland. It needed a available Yacht Captain to go to Phuket Thailand via Cape York, Bali ,Indonesian. Singapore and Malaysia. It had a brochure that looked fantastic.

It was an old Camper & Nicholson made in 1977 it had a steel hull with aluminum sub structure which was riveted together.

I submitted a CV and forgot about it till I got called from the owner who was in the performance coaching business . I was quickly convinced because of the owners skills.

After driving north for two days I arrived at the marina and saw the boat, I realized I'd been conned. The yacht was a mess.

It turned out it was completely un seaworthy and most systems broken down, With the Australian Cruise Permit expired, Ships Registration in Gibraltar expired, the hull and crew insurance expired, radio licenses expired. Added to this, all the safety equipment was out of date.

The old Captain left two days later with the owners disputing his return ticket to England.

Being the relief captain Phuket I desperately started the rebuild paying bills using my own money to progress, the promised boat money and credit card never arrived.

Some 19 month later we arrived at Yacht Haven Marina, Phuket Thailand. I continued to restore the vessel to her former glory with all systems running with a limited budget and lots of mind games for seven more months.

I am very proud to rebuild a part of nautical history of this great boat.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Finding The Perfect Crewed Charter Yachts

Just imagine cruising the tropical seas aboard your own private yacht charter. If this has been a dream of yours that you would like to make a reality it is recommended that you first do some research. As with anything else word of mouth is always the best testament. If you have a business partner, friend, or family member that has chartered a yacht ask about their experience.

Compare Prices

Compare the charter fees amongst the various yachts that are available.  Some charters are all inclusive which means they will take care of everything from picking you up at the airport, all your meals, recreational activities, to getting you home.  Then again, some may have hidden costs that you may not have considered which could make one charter seem cheaper but in the end cost more.

Investigate the Charter


There are tons of websites for crewed charter yachts. Most will have beautiful photos of their yachts and locations to travel to and they should also have feedback from former passengers.  I am sure they like to publish only the positive remarks but I have seen a few negative during my searches. Also, talk to friends who have recently sailed aboard a private yacht and ask them what to look for and what questions you should ask.

Safety and comfort are important issues to address before leaving port. Just as important are the destination, the food, special needs, recreational activities, and the size of the yacht. A yachting vacation should be the trip of a lifetime, relaxing and enjoyable, your every need should be attended to and the location as romantic and beautiful as you had imagined.

Relax, Let the Captain Do the Driving

Ideally you have taking care of all the details months in advance. All you have to do now is count the dolphin swimming along side your private yacht while sampling delicious breakfast fare set out on the lido deck by the quietly attentive crew.  Later you will enjoy an afternoon of scuba diving near the shores of a remote island.  After your gourmet dinner you can soak in the upper deck's jacuzzi while watching one of the many tropical sunsets you will experience each evening.

After a day of water activities you may wish to relax in the salon with a refreshing cocktail and freshly prepared appetizers and watch TV or view a movie. For the evening meal you will be treated to a dinner that may include an international cuisine or perhaps, freshly caught fish by yours truly, prepared by a professionally trained chef. You may want to dine on the lido deck watching beautiful sunsets. You may choose to have your meal served in an elegantly decorated dining room of your beautiful charter yacht.

Taking a trip aboard a crewed charter yacht will make any other vacation seem boring.

To get more information on yacht charters visit South Florida Yacht Charters

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Considering Bareboat Charters

The Beauty of Bareboat Charters Virgin Islands

There are some incredible charter opportunities that go to exotic places to include the Virgin Islands, the Caribbean, and the Florida Keys. If this sounds like something you might want to do, it is important that you choose a top charter company, one that will show you the trip of a lifetime but in an affordable and safe way.

For instance, Bare Boat Charters to Virgin Islands is one of the best in the industry. This company will make sure you are taken to some of the most stunning islands with white sandy beaches possible. All of the Bare Boat Charters to the Virgin Islands include boats that come fully equipped with everything needed.

Before the yacht leaves port, the skipper and experienced crew member will be given an inspection of the yacht to familiarize them with the equipment's use and location. It is important to ask as many questions as can be thought of as you do not want to be at sea and discover that either something is missing or not working.

Fun Bareboat Charter Florida Keys

Bare boat charters Florida keys has a close relationship with the boat owners, managers, captains and are well acquainted the yachts to guarantee sailing satisfaction. The Charter company's staff is always available to assist with any problems or questions.

Tropical Bare Boat Charter Caribbean

Bare boat charter Caribbean is equally as beautiful as the Virgin Islands or Florida Keys. The Caribbean bare boat charters is the home to the world's largest bare boat charter fleet. Some of the finest sail and power boats available for weekly holiday rentals are moored there.

Charter a Caribbean bare boat catamaran or monohull yacht and sail the spectacular British Virgin Islands! Crewed or captain only sailing charters and ASA courses are available. Come to the islands and sail in comfort and style aboard one of the finest catamarans or monohull sailboats available for bare boat charters anywhere in the Caribbean!

Before you book your cruise, you need to first decide on the type of vacation you want since some yachts are more economical and plain than others. In addition, some charters are designed to be romantic, some for singles, some for families, etc.

You will discover breathtaking islands and pristine beaches and perhaps find yourself swaying to the rhythm of steel drums at an open air beach bar! Your top priority is to have a carefree holiday and experience the smooth sailing, laid-back atmosphere of the Caribbean. A yacht vacation will be the best that you have ever had!

Monday, September 29, 2008

The Freedom of Bare Boat Charter to Croatia

Is Bareboat Charter Croatia For You

A bareboat charter Croatia gives you the freedom to view the beauty of the Republic of Croatia, known as the land of a thousand islands and a haven for boaters. Yacht charter and all other significant segments of nautical tourism have been brought together under the Croatian Association of Nautical Tourism. This association was established as a professional organization within the Croatian Chamber of Commerce.

Enjoy Bareboat Charter Tortola

As mentioned, there are so many places to go that you also need to have some idea of the destination.  If you want beautiful scenery and gorgeous beaches, then you might consider a bareboat Charter Tortola.  Each destination offers something unique so we suggest you do some homework to gain a clearer idea of what the destinations have to offer so you can narrow down the choices.

Bareboat Charter BVI

When chartering a yacht, there are a number of options open to you and  it is wise to compare and contrast the various choices. You may be an experienced sailor looking for a bareboat charter BVI and tour the islands at your own pace or you may just wish to kick back with the family and have someone else do all the work for you, the decision is yours.

Planning your bareboat charter BVI and choosing the type of yacht would best accommodate your group is a fun process.  Most companies will have photos of their yachts with floor plans and specs to make your decision a bit easier.  You do want to see what you will be getting for the money.

If you are an experienced sailor who loves the feel of the wind in your face as the yacht heals over the crystal clear Caribbean seas you can save by doing a bareboat charter BVI.  A bareboat charter BVI is a spacious, air-conditioned yacht with a large cockpit in which to sunbathe and drink a cocktail and a yacht that is fully equipped, clean and professionally maintained.

If you want to have a great cruise vacation you will have many incredible choices to choose from.  This type of vacation is well suited for the entire family.

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Royal Carribean Cruises - The Perfect Vacation Escape

Royal Carribean cruises offer their famous Gold Anchor Service while you are vacationing, which takes care of all your needs. Visiting exotic tropical destinations or viewing breathtaking Alaskan fjords are just two of the possibilities for a cruise vacation. Leave your humdrum routine for a memorable vacation.

Royal Carribean cruises are the answer for people whose lives are hectic and stressful. We all need to let go, have fun, and forget the monotony of everyday life. And as a parent, spending quality time together with your family is a top priority. Royal Carribean cruises are the best way to take an enjoyable and relaxing family vacation.

There are lots and lots of reasons for enjoying Royal Carribean cruises with your family. Whether you're traveling alone or going with a partner, you'll find that the reasons are basically the same. Royal Carribean cruises have a hundred different ports across the globe that you can pick from. These cruises go to Alaska, Hawaii, islands in the Caribbean, Europe, and many other ports. There is sun, sand, beautiful beaches, and blue water. Snorkeling in clear blue lagoons, whale watching, submarine excursions and coral reefs. If you want it, you will have it.

Royal Carribean cruises stop at many exotic ports, and they offer many shore excursions as well. There are activities like mountain biking or hiking, you can explore historical locations and sightsee, or just lay on a sunny beach and relax.

Royal Carribean cruises are the perfect romantic getaway, because romance blossoms on these vacations. There’s a cruise to fit your budget and your travel preferences. You'll find things to enjoy like lounging on your own private deck, relaxing by the pool, visiting the spa facilities for a massage, or you can live it up and go dancing. Walking and holding hands while looking out at the ocean is a very romantic experience. While waiting for the stars to appear, you can look into the horizon and watch the sunset. Next, it's time to move into the dining room, for one of the most elegant dinners you've ever experienced. Royal Carribean cruises have many packages to pick from, and each of them is a great deal.

Choose from some of your favorite family activities while on Royal Carribean cruises, because so many are offered that you won't be able to complete them all. If you have younger children, it's wise to check with the cruise ship before you book, so you will know what activities are available to them. Relax in the comfort and privacy of your own room while your kids enjoy the supervised activities. If you need some romantic time, take your significant other to a themed bar and disco, and drop the kids off for some monitored activities planned for them. Aren’t those reasons enough to make you choose Royal Carribean cruises?

Yacht Charter Miami Provides Yachting At Its Best

Yacht Charter Miami

If you want an unforgettable and kick back vacation choose charter yacht Miami.  Some of the most beautiful and luxurious yacht charters attainable are located in Miami.  From the coast of Miami you will be able to sail to close by Virginia Key and Key Biscayne and then on to the islands of the Bahamas.

Yacht Charter Miami provides fully crewed charter yachts where you will be treated to world class service even royalty would be envious of.  You have a wide variety of chartering choices whether you are planning a two hour cocktail cruise or a lengthy holiday.  These luxury yachts employ well trained and experienced captains, crew and chefs providing you with the ultimate in safety, security and impeccable service and gourmet meals.

The accommodations aboard these luxury yachts are impressive.  Family travelers can choose a yacht that is “kid friendly” that has cabins with bunks in addition to the master cabin.

The master cabins have their own private bathrooms and offer the best views. Some yachts have several “guest suites” that also have private baths.  The crew quarters are commonly discreetly tucked away on the lower decks for the ultimate in privacy.

When cruising the lavish keys and islands located off of the Florida coast you can take advantage of many water activities and equipment provided.  diving, wind surfing, fishing, kayaking, snorkeling,
water skiing, and wave riding are just a few sports you may want to experience.

Detailed planning is necessary when you are planning an event or holiday aboard a yacht charter Miami such as:  Where are you planning your charter?  What type of yacht are you considering?  What date did you have in mind?  How many people will be attending?  What water activities would you like to partake in?  Most importantly, what is your budget?

Yacht charters offer an inclusive rate that includes food, beverages, and all the activities provided while onboard.  The larger luxury yachts operate on a “cost plus all expenses basis” which affords more flexibility with the itinerary and meals.  When researching online you will find all the information on rates and types of yachts available.  There will be photos, yacht specs, equipment available onboard and resumes of the crew.

If you want  a relaxing and memorable yachting vacation, research and planning will be required to make your yachting dream come true.