Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Charter Catamaran Twilight Rodeo: Meet Gene

Meet Gene from the charter yacht Twilight Rodeo, a 50-foot Voyage catamaran with a human crew of two, plus one :)


Amanda sent us this photo and says, "Gene is an awesome little Boston terrier. He's very low maintenance and friendly. Eveyone who meets him, loves him. Gene is a great surrogate dog for those missing their pets."

I met Gene and saw him many times being walked on the docks at the St Thomas show in November. He is a very nice, loveable, and well-behaved puppydog.

Catamaran Twilight Rodeo - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Charters - VI Sailing Vacations

Twilight Rodeo is a 50-foot Voyage catamaran with a crew of two, Jim & Amanda. Twilight Rodeo is fully air conditioned and, while best for a group of 6,  they can accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 Queen cabins. Three equivalent guest cabins have ensuite head/shower, while the 4th cabin located forward between the hulls shares a head and is only accessible from the deck outside (inquire). Twilight Rodeo has a 14-foot dinghy with 60HP motor, tube, wakeboard, 2-person kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel equipment, fishing gear, hammock/deck swing, TV/DVD in salon, etc. And don't forget GENE!!!

Come Sailing with Jim, Amanda, and Gene!



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book TWILIGHT RODEO
View Twilight Rodeo's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com




Monday, February 24, 2014

New England Yacht Charters Updated 2014

This weekend we reinstated our Rates & Yachts page for New England yacht charters.

New England Yacht Charters Paradise Connections

We have chosen a selection of yachts that we feel will be of best interest to our clients. This page has three sections: Monohull sailboats, Catamarans, Motor yachts. If you don't find what you're looking for on this list, please don't hesitate to ask.

We have some very good "budget boats" such as the very popular Storm Petrel and Sea Witch, while the most expensive yacht we have listed is a motor yacht for $135,000/week (plus expenses).

Many yachts are available for weekends, short charters, and day sails. Contact us for details.

Availability is quite good at present for summer charters in New England. It seems like we always get slammed for last-minute charters so please book ASAP. We don't want you to be disappointed and miss out on a summer sailing vacation.

New England Yachts & Rates, Summer 2014: CLICK HERE


For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com



Sunday, February 23, 2014

Charter Yacht Domicil : Client Comments Reviews

We would like to thank Hans & Christine of the charter yacht DOMICIL for the excellent time our clients had on their family's sailing vacation in January (2014).

Charter Yacht Domicil - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Charters
- Sailing Vacations in ABCs, Bonaire, Curacao -



Here's their comments:

My family and I enjoyed a wonderful charter aboard the Domicil. This is my 8th charter in the Caribbean and I must say it was the very best. We very much enjoyed the service of the crew, Hans and Christine. They truly pampered us and were so thoughtful with many little details.

Christine’s cooking is absolutely superb. Every meal was beautifully presented a true feast. Just when we thought we had seen the best, she came up with yet another dish to top the last…thanks so much Christine!

Hans is interesting and skillful as an Owner and Captain. He is so knowledgeable with a great sense of hospitality to make you feel at home. Both Hans and Christine take a personal interest in their guests, making them feel as if they are traveling among friends. Both make you feel as though you are on your own personal yacht and will do everything to ensure you have the time of your life.

The Domicil is a wonderful yacht. The millwork (from Holland) and the interior finishes are spectacular and it sails very comfortably. With two master cabins there is so much space you feel you are on 100 footer.

My other charters were in the northern Caribbean and these experiences have tended to blend into one another in my memory. The Bonaire and Curacao Island are more distinct and interesting than what we have experienced before. We enjoyed our trips ashore to explore the local culture after receiving expert site seeing advice from Hans and Christine. Hans also invited us for a captain’s lunch on the beach where we were surprised with beautiful fresh lobster for lunch…thank you Gijs of Porto Mari!

Hans’ local knowledge of the islands is formidable and whatever your request, he provides it with a phone call to one of the many connections on the island. We felt well cared for by all of the local companies we did excursions with.

Examples of Hans’ commitment to customer service:
  • At the last minute, we wanted to rent a Jeep on Bonaire and drive around the island but all were already rented out for the day. Not to be detoured, Hans contacted his acquaintance who was the owner of the tour shop to rent us his own luxury SUV…thank you Mark Dieperink!
  • In Curacao, we wanted to watch a NFL playoff game. Hans found a restaurant owned by an American couple who invited us over to watch the game. They were even kind enough to pick us up at the pier and drive us to and from the restaurant…thank you Mrs. Sunshine of the restaurant Solfood!

Looking back on our great charter, we would recommend the Domicil and her crew to anyone…”Hans and Christine, we will surely return to the Domicil and meanwhile, our invitation for you to visit us in Colorado stands!”

We are looking forward to seeing you again soon.
Patrick, Tracy, Kate and Vanessa - January 2014



Master cabin -- Peaceful anchorage -- Twin cabin

Domicil’s entire 85-foot length is dedicated to the pampering of just four guests. Domicil is air conditioned and accommodates up to 4 guests in 2 cabins. The master cabin is aft with a queen size bed, bathroom with marble vanity counter, stall shower and toilet. The forward guest cabin has 2 single beds (one twin, one 3/4), a sofa and ensuite bathroom with a stall shower and toilet. The contemporary interior furnishings and tranquil Asian art create a calming atmosphere. Her professional crew of two offers hospitality skills gained in luxury hotels on Curacao and Bonaire.
RATES (8 days / 7 nights):
Rates are all inclusive, except alcoholic beverages, 7% tax and possible port fees.
  • 2 guests: $17,500/week
  • 4 guests: $19,500/week
Available on request at no charge:
One-person kayak, standup paddleboards (SUP), tube, kneeboard

Available at extra charge:
Canoes, Scuba diving (party boat or private), Jetskis, Windsurfing, sailing dinghy - monohull or Hobie cat, private submarine, helicopter ride.

Domicil is based in Bonaire and is available year round. (The ABC islands are effectively outside of the hurricane zone.)


Click HERE for Domicil's sample itinerary for a Bonaire-Curacao yacht charter sailing vacation.

So, if you have chartered in the Virgin Islands and other areas of the Caribbean, this is an excellent opportunity to explore somewhere new... the ABC's.

Fancy somewhere different?



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book DOMICIL
View Domicil's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com



Thursday, February 20, 2014

Charter Yacht Corus: News and Special Offer

The charter yacht Corus, a Whitby 42 ketch, is one of our favorite charter yachts for two. We have a bit of news from Bill and Ann, including a special offer.


Charter Yacht Corus - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Charters
 - Sailing and Dive Vacations in the Virgin Islands -

SPECIAL OFFER: 

For new bookings with charters taking place between March 1 and August 1, 2014 in the British Virgin Islands, the special rates for 2 guests are:
7 nights=$5400  ---  6 nights=$4630  ---  5 nights=$3860


Bill and Ann brought their experience from careers in the hospitality industry to crewed chartering, and it shows. They love and respect the BVIs; promoting and protecting its bounty and beauty. They are keen to share their knowledge of the Territory with their guests.

Both are active in sports... playing tennis, cycling, hiking, as well as engaging with guests in the tropical pleasures of swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Bill’s knowledge of the BVI dive sites for both the newbie and the expert diver is unrivalled.

Bill and Ann both have many interests. They are very well read, have travelled extensively and continue to love meeting new people; hosting them and entertaining them.


Ann’s outstanding culinary skills are well known throughout the charter fleet. She continues her foodie quest, so no meal preference or dietary need is a barrier to a gourmet dining experience on Corus.

Corus is in tip top shape through constant upgrading and replacement. These include recently renewed salon upholstery in smooth natural linen and cockpit cushions in Sunbrella providing comfortable seating throughout the boat. In addition, Corus has a new 25hp four-stroke engine on their 14-foot Nouvriana center-cockpit tender.”


Corus is a Whitby 42 ketch, owned and crewed by the British couple, Bill and Ann Hasted. Corus has a large guest cabin aft with a queen-sized berth, ensuite head/shower and a separate entrance via the center cockpit.  Corus has a 14-foot dinghy with 25HP 4-stroke motor, 2 one-person kayaks, snorkel equipment, hammock, DVD on laptop, beach toys, underwater camera & video, Celeston GPS Sky Scout, onboard internet to occasionally check email from ship's computer, or bring your laptop and use local hotspots where available, etc. Bill is a Dive Master and includes 4 dives/week for certified divers. Divers may bring their own gear or rent.


AFTER-CHARTER COMMENTS / CLIENT REVIEWS:

We have had many successful charters aboard Corus. Here's a review from one couple...
We had a terrific week with Ann and Bill. It was really relaxing and truly enjoyable. Both of them are very interesting and did everything to make our stay a fantastic experience. The boat lends itself very well for a cruise and the diving and food are great additions to the sailing. Thank you for guiding us in our choice and your patience in finalizing the vacations. We look forward to another experience.

Very best, G.

Looking forward to your inquiries!



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book CORUS
View Corus's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com




Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Charter Catamaran FRANGINES: Save $1000

The charter yacht Frangines, a 55-foot Argo catamaran, has a special offer which runs through mid-August 2014.

Catamaran Frangines - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Chartes - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations

SPECIAL OFFER:
  • $1000 off standard, 7-night charter rate.  This means that a 6-person charter is only $12,000/wk. Valid for new bookings taking place between now and August 15, 2014.

Frangines is a 55-foot Argo catamaran with a crew of two. Frangines is air conditioned and accommodates up to 6 guests in three cabins with queen berths, each with DVD players and ensuite heads/showers.

They have a 14-foot dinghy with 60HP motor, waterskis, kneeboard, wakeboard, tube, kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel gear, fishing equipment, underwater camera, floating mats, 32" flatscreen TV with DVD in the salon, wifi where available, laptop computer for guests to use, etc.

Captain Rick is a dive master and 5 dives/week are included for certified divers. Bring own gear or rent.

RECENT AFTER-CHARTER COMMENTS / CLIENT REVIEWS:
February 13-18, 2014: 3 couples
  • Cliff and Brooke. What an amazing pair! This trip exceeded our expectations, food, fun, dancing, sun and wonderful memories. We look forward to sailing with you again.
  • Cliff/Brooke, Thank you for everything! Words cannot describe how unbelievable this trip was. We are never staying in a resort/hotel again! Food, drinks, snorkeling, Cliff and Brooke were fantastic!!
  • We will be back!

December 20-27, 2013: Family group of 4
  • Best vacation of all time in the history of EVER!!! My favorite place was Monkey Point in Guana Island. My favorite meal was...ALL OF THEM! Some of the best food I've ever had in my life. Brooke and Cliff are an unstoppable duo of extreme awesomeness. We were blessed, truly, for having them lead the way. I will never ever forget the memories that the two of them have so graciously aided in creating for our family.


Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book FRANGINES
View Frangines's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com


Saturday, February 15, 2014

Catamaran Majestic Spirit's BVI Wedding Package

The charter yacht Majestic Spirit is a 53-foot Royal Cape catamaran with an owner-operator crew of two, Dave and Desirée Bean.

Catamaran Majestic Spirit - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Charters - Liveaboard SCUBA Diving - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations

Majestic Spirit is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 cabins (3 Queens, 1 Double) each with ensuite head/shower. They have a 15-foot dinghy with 50HP motor, waterskis, tube, kneeboard, wakeboard, 2 one-person kayaks, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel gear, fishing equipment, floating sun cushions, underwater camera and video, hammock, TV/DVD in salon, onboard wifi where available, beach games, etc. 

Majestic Spirit is a fully registered SSI Dive Center/ Dive Boat with two experienced and passionate divers (Instructor & Divemaster). Diving is included in their charter rate: Certified divers: 5 dives/week, gear included. Non-certified divers: 1 resort/discover scuba course.

MARRIAGE CEREMONY PACKAGE

A free marriage ceremony (or vow renewal) aboard Majestic Spirit or barefoot on a BVI beach
Just bring your wedding dress, we'll look after the rest!
Special items for the lucky couple
Advance Consultation
Assistance with the BVI legal processes
Marriage License & Registrar Fees
Spa treatment and hairstylist for the bride
Wedding Officiate - your own vows and songs are encouraged
A tropical bouquet and boutonniere for the bride and the groom
A single tier, 8-inch, beautifully decorated wedding cake
Floral decorations at BEACH ceremony location
Digital photography of the wedding ceremony cut to disc
Music  - Let us know your wedding song, or bring it along on a CD
A romantic dinner ashore ($300 allowance) plus a complimentary bottle of champagne for the bride and groom on wedding night.  Other guests on the charter (if any) will dine aboard Majestic Spirit allowing the bride and groom their special romantic dinner ashore.
 Following your wedding, you will receive, an official certified copy of your marriage certificate.

Everything above included at yacht's standard rates for 2-8 pax charter,
7-night minimum and no other specials may be combined with this offer.
Inquire for special pricing for additional couples renewing vows or being wed in the same charter. 
Offer valid until further notice.




Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book MAJESTIC SPIRIT
View Majestic Spirits's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com



Friday, February 14, 2014

Charter Catamaran Whisper 42 Introductory Rates

The charter yacht Whisper 42, a 42-foot Fontaine Pajot catamaran that has recently joined our fleet, is offering introductory rates. Save over $2400 on a weeks' charter.

Catamaran Whisper 42 - Crewed Caribbean Yacht Charters - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations

Whisper is a 42-foot Fontaine Pajot catamaran with a crew of two. Whisper is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 4 guests in 2 Queen cabins with a shared head/shower located between the two cabins. Whisper has an 11-foot dinghy with 15HP motor, 2-person kayak, noodles, snorkel gear, fishing equipment, TV/DVD in salon, etc.

SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY RATES: 2 dinners ashore at client's expense

  • 2 guests: $6300/wk - SAVE $2450 (normally $8750)
  • 3 guests: $6850/wk - SAVE $2600 (normally $9450)
  • 4 guests: $7400/wk - SAVE $2550 (normally $9950)

THERE'S MORE...
  • For charters booked by April 30 2014, we offer a free sleep aboard the night of your arrival before the charter.

This boat is ideal for a couple or a family with one or two children.



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book WHISPER 42
View Whisper 42's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com



Tuesday, February 11, 2014

TransAtlantic Crossing Charter: Yacht ANAHITA May-June 2014

Cross the Atlantic Ocean with Charter Yacht Anahita this Spring

The charter yacht ANAHITA, a 62-foot Dynamique sloop, has an opening for two paying crew on their 6th eastbound trans-Atlantic crossing. This is an excellent opportunity to get some sea miles and a unique adventure. Join Captain Bijan and Chef Roseanne in St. Thomas, USVI for the May 1st departure.

(A) Northeast Caribbean -- (B) Azores -- (C) Gibraltar -- (D) Montenegro

DETAILS:

Anahita has scheduled an Atlantic crossing beginning May 1, 2014 and has two spots open for paying crew:
  • Caribbean to Gibraltar: 
    • Departure from St. Thomas
    • Duration: Approximately 28-30 days.
    • St. Thomas to Azores: 18 days
    • Stop in Azores for a few days
    • Azores to Gibraltar: 6 days
    • Cost: $6500/person, all inclusive except bar. Note: While in port in the Azores, only continental breakfast will be served and no other food is included in the charter fee.
  • Option: Gibraltar to ...
    • Continue to the Balearics, Sardinia or Naples, additional per day rate. 

Charter Yacht ANAHITA - Crewed Sailing Vacations
Winter: Caribbean / Summer: Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Charters
    COMMENTS:


    At the Helm  <===  2000 Miles!  ===>  Arrival in Gibraltar
    2012 TransAtlantic Crossing

    We just finished our wonderful Atlantic crossing. We couldn’t have found a better boat or a better captain and chef for this most wonderful experience in our lives.
    - 2012 TransAtlantic Crossing

    Bijan is “The Best of the Best." An unforgettable adventure!
    - 2012 TransAtlantic Crossing
    It is fair to say that -- having sailed only in the Mediterranean and never in “Proper” oceans -- I was somewhat worried regards to crossing the Atlantic, my journey into the unknown! I needed not have worried: From the moment I stepped aboard I felt at ease and very much enjoyed the crossing -- So many thanks for making it so easy: Well hosted. Best wishes to you both for much happiness together, kind seas, and fair winds. If you ever find your way to York, make sure you look me up.
    - Bruce (Antigua-Azores-Gibraltar, May 2-June 1, 2010
    There are many stories to be told about four guys on a 3,228 mile, 29-day transatlantic crossing, but the one that strikes me as being the best is meeting the Anahita captain, Bijan. Myself an owner of a 1980 38’ Shannon cutter ketch with two transatlantic crossings, I would say this crossing (12/01/09 -12/29/09) was one of the easiest of the three. As a captain you should know & be able to diagnose every sound emanating from your boat, understand & never chance your boat's abilities under all sea conditions, & have an ability to take command of all crew situations. I can say from doing this trip with Bijan that he is aware of all of these situations, even while asleep. The boat is equipped with two types of communication with the land via sailmail, an email service, & satellite telephone. I had been in contact through sailmail with my family & thereby kept them informed as to where the boat was & that all was as well. Now as for luxury, I can truly say there is nothing missing in accommodations or entertainment (Plasma TV for evening movies). My room was large, airy, & comfortable for two & extremely large for one. Of course, it has a head with shower with enough hot water to keep you happy. The galley was a delight to work in with a three-burner stove & oven that was easy to handle & make delicious hot evening meals. We even made fresh bread in the electric bread maker. Over all the Anahita was a delight to spend time on & would give anyone a great time to remember.
    - Regards, Noah (Gibraltar to St Martin, Nov. 2009)

    What a wonderful opportunity of an adventure charter this will be for two lucky people.  We (Bob & Sheila) love passages. It is so cool to look out and just see water all the way out to the horizon... Of course, you'll see the occasional ship and flotsam can get quite exciting.  Maybe you will even catch a nice fish for dinner on your way!


    Bijan and Roseanne look forward to having you aboard.



    Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ANAHITA
    View Anahita's online brochure
    Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com