Showing posts with label Scuba diving. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scuba diving. Show all posts

Sunday, June 20, 2021

Spotlight on Catamaran Catatonic 500

Catamaran Catatonic 500
Open for Christmas 2021

Sail Catamaran Catatonic - Virgin Islands & New England


Catamaran Catatonic 500 is a stunning yacht and is currently open for Christmas 2021. We hope that one of our clients will be able to snag them for their holiday charter this year. Catatonic's New Year's charter starts late so they are open through Wednesday, December 29th.That timespan should fit into everyone's calendar.
 
 
About Catatonic 500
 
Catatonic is a 51-foot Lagoon catamaran with an owner-operator crew of two, Dirk & Sandy. Catatonic accommodates up to 6 guests in air conditioned comfort. All three guest cabins have a Queen berth, individual AC controls, and private head with sink, electric-flush toilet, and separate walk-in shower.
 
Forward area with seats in cockpit & cushions on trampolines
 
Catatonic has ample room to spread out and relax whether on the seating area up forward, on top of the flybridge, in the spacious aft cockpit (which has a wet bar), or the roomy interior salon.
 

Enjoy the sliding-rigger rowing paddleboard
 
Amenities include a 14-foot, center console dinghy with 60HP motor, waterskis, tube, kneeboard, 2 single kayaks, 2 stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel gear, floating mats, floating & deck beanbag chairs, hammock, beach games, underwater camera, USB ports, Wii gaming system, TV/DVD in salon, SiriusXM satellite radio, onboard wifi where available (not for streaming), kiteboard, fishing gear, etc. Catatonic has a Mavic Pro Drone and the Captain will take video & photos during charter for guests. They also have a LifePak AED (Automated External Defibrillator) in case of emergencies.
 
 
Kiteboarding & SCUBA
 
 
Catatonic has a training kite on board and Dirk offers basic instruction. 
 
Are you certified Scuba divers? Both Dirk and Sandy are PADI Dive Masters and onboard Scuba diving is available. Five free dives/wk for certified divers. Extra dives for the price of air fills. Night dives, too. Click HERE for diving details.
 

Meet The Crew

Captain Dirk and First Mate Sandy, owner-operators of Catatonic 500, enjoy sharing their passion for boating, fun and adventure.

Sandy & Dirk

Dirk is a USCG certified Captain and lifelong sailor with a special love for all things nautical. He started sailing solo at 5 years old and has been leading yacht charters around the world for over 25 years. He is an avid water sports enthusiast and will be happy to lead you to the best locations for snorkeling, tubing, wake boarding, knee boarding, kayaking, SUP, deep sea fishing, Scuba diving, and even provide an introduction to kite boarding. Dirk also has a Mavic Pro drone aboard and will be happy to record breathtaking footage of your vacation aboard Catatonic.

Sandy began sailing in college and has never looked back. She loves entertaining and introducing people to the seafaring lifestyle. She has been cooking since the age of 10 and loves to get creative in the galley; serving up tasty snacks and beautiful meals to their guests.

In 2007, they started chartering in the Virgin Islands where Catatonic, a Lagoon 440, enjoyed a reputation as one of the most popular, most fun and busiest charter sailing yachts in the US and British Virgin Islands. Sadly, in 2017, Catatonic 440 was lost in the infamous, category-5 storm, Hurricane Irma. But now, their new charter yacht, Catatonic 500, carries on the legacy of bringing vacations of a lifetime to their guests.

The crew is fully vaccinated for Covid-19.


Excellent Food

 
Be sure to take a look at Sandy's sample menu for marvellous meals and tasty treats!

Click HERE for Catatonic's sample menu.


Charter Locations
 
During the summer months Catatonic charters in New England, while during the main charter season they are located in the Virgin Islands and also offer charters in the Spanish Virgin Islands.


After-Charter Comments
 
Dirk and Sandy - What an amazing adventure we have had! Thank you for hosting us to an exciting, relaxing, and memorable catamaran experience. You exceeded our expectations! You two make a wonderful team! Sandy, your cooking was fantastic! Thank you for meeting all of our requests. You went above and beyond! Dirk, you always guided us in the right direction for great dives, fun snorkeling and beautiful surroundings. You were both so flexible and accommodating to our high-energy, adventurous group. Thank you for putting us all at ease as guests of the Catatonic 500. You blessed us in every way  -  Ann & Dane, Bill & Betsy, Richard & Leslie.
 
Sandy and Dirk - I think the best way to sum up this trip is PERFECTION. This trip has been AMAZING! The food, service, hospitality, accommodations have been 5 Star all the way. This has been a trip of a lifetime! We really enjoyed all the beautiful scenery. The conditions were just perfect for us. We felt so safe and confident the entire trip. We were talking this morning and we have decided that we cannot pick one perfect day or beach because every day and every place was perfect! Thank you both so much for helping us make a memory of a lifetime - Paula, Valerie, Dixie and Gail.
 


 
Rates & Brochure
 
View standard rates Click HERE.
 
Christmas Week = $23,000/wk for up to 6 guests, 7-night minimum.
 
Click HERE for diving information.

Click HERE to view Catatonic's online brochure.


Only one lucky group of charterers will celebrate Christmas aboard Catatonic this year.
 
Will it be you?



Let's start planning your sailing vacation !

 
Send us an email


Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to inquire about a yacht charter
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
 





Friday, April 30, 2021

Yacht Charters in the US Virgin Islands

Yacht Charters in the US Virgin Islands are Easy
 
 
With the recent good news concerning travel for the fully vaccinated, we are experiencing an uptick in yacht charter inquries.
 
We feel that a charter within the US Virgin Islands is currently the best location for your yacht charter as it is the most hassel-free choice.
 
 
Entry to the US Virgin Islands is pretty straightforward. Basically: 
  • All travelers to the USVI (5 years of age or older) must register with the USVI Travel Screening Portal
  • Have a negative Covid test prior to boarding the plane.
  • For return to the mainland USA, a further test is not necessary unless your state requires it.
  • Passports for Americans not required. 
For more information concerning covid-19 protocols in the USVI: Click Here.

Ready for a well-deserved get-away? There is still good availability for Spring & Summer charters.
 
Too soon? Autumn or Winter would be better for you? Check out our special offers for November & December Click Here.

Bookings for holiday charters are picking up so please don't wait too long.
 


Looking forward to your inquiry !

 
Send us an email

 
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to inquire about a yacht charter
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
 
 
 
 
 

Saturday, October 24, 2020

Catamaran Viramar is open for Christmas or pre-Christmas charters

Want to get away and celebrate Christmas?
 
 
Viramar has an American crew and is able to charter within the US Virgin Islands; so if the BVIs has not opened up, you don't have to worry about a cancelled charter.
 
Viramar is currently open December 9 - 26, 2020.
 
Their Christmas rate is $36,000 for up to 8 guests.

If you are interested in a pre-holiday, all-inclusive sailing vacation you can check out their standard rates on our Catamaran Rates page.
 
 





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




 

Friday, February 21, 2020

Catamaran Manna Sails the Spanish VIs, too

Catamaran Manna Charters in USVIs, BVIs, and Spanish Virgin Islands, too

Charter Catamaran Manna - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations Yacht Charters


About Catamaran Manna

MANNA is a 53-foot Royal Cape catamaran with a crew of two. Manna is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 cabins (1 King, 2 Queens, 1 Double), each with ensuite head (sink, shower, electric-flush toilet). Excellent headroom.

They have a 14-foot dinghy with 60HP motor, waterskis, tube, wakeboard, 3-person kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), subwing, snorkel gear, fishing equipment (BVI registered fishing vessel), 10-person "floating island", floating mats, 4  bean bag chairs, noodles, underwater camera, hammock, beach games, TV/DVD in salon, iPod/device hookup, internet access where available, onboard computer, etc.

Scuba diving

Manna has a Dive Instructor and features onboard scuba diving. They are currently offering unlimited diving to certified divers at no charge. They also offer a Resort/Discover Scuba course for non-certified divers, as well as Open Diving courses and specialty courses.

All-Inclusive Crewed Charters with diving, too

Catamaran Manna offers charters in the US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, and also the lesser-travelled Spanish Virgin Islands.

More info

Currently available for Christmas and New Years



Manna's Sample Itinerary for the Spanish Virgin Islands

Click image to enlarge

Mention the Virgin Islands, and most people think of the U.S. Virgin or British Virgin Islands. Yet, just 15-20 miles west of these islands, and only 6 miles to the east of Puerto Rico, lays the Spanish Virgin Islands, also known as the "Passage Islands". Ceded to the United States in 1898, this area is made up of the islands of Culebra and Vieques along with their surrounding islets and cays.

The Spanish Virgin Islands have always been a well-kept secret, even back in the days of Bluebeard and other famous pirates who used the islands for hideouts.The fact that the U.S. Navy & Marines used the islands for bombing practice until 2003 also kept land developers, commercialism, and an abundance of sailing charters away.

The result is pristine and unspoiled islands, with spacious deserted white sandy beaches; crystal clear turquoise blue water, and healthy intact reefs teeming with fish, coral and crustaceans. There are hills to climb and explore; nearly empty anchorages, and the natural charm of the BVI from thirty-five years ago.

If you are looking for a somewhat remote pure paradise for your next vacation, or you are suffering from "been there, done that" syndrome, then the Spanish Virgin Islands might be your answer!

Day 1
Arrive at SJU Airport in San Juan where the crew on Manna will be awaiting to pick you up in your own private van for the drive to Fajardo where Manna is berthed. Welcome drinks on board and safety briefing with a relaxing evening before our journey begins.

Day 2
Early morning sail towards Culebra, arriving at Cayo Luis Pena for snorkeling and hiking. Cayo Luis Pena, is just off the island of Culebra. This 2-mile long, uninhabited wildlife refuge has numerous hiking paths and spectacular secluded beaches. For the sailing charterer looking for solitude, this is the spot.

Day 3
Short sail over to Culebra for diving and snorkeling. Some of the Caribbean’s best diving and snorkeling is on Culebra.

Since 1909, the entire coastline and one-third of the interior has been designated the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge, which is run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These protected lands are home to endangered sea turtles, including the leatherback turtle, and some 50,000 sea birds. There are three roads on Culebra – all leading to a beach. The most famous and perhaps most spectacular in the entire Caribbean is Playa Flamenco.

Day 4
Explore Culebra and Flamenco beach by golf carts. Home to only about 2,000 residents who live strictly by “island time,” this island has no resorts or nightclubs to entertain you. The sleepy town of Dewey is comprised of a ragtag assortment of two-story wooden lean-tos and a handful of bars and restaurants, whose owners may or may not choose to open them on any given day.

Day 5
Sail to the tiny offshore cay, Culebrita. The snorkeling here is excellent. The beaches are fabulous, especially the 400-foot white sand crescent on the northern shore.The small uninhabited island of Culebrita is a nature reserve. It is part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge which protects large colonies of sea birds and nesting sea turtles. You’ll never get tired of watching the terns, red-billed tropic birds, and boobies soar above the island and swoop down low to catch fish.

The island is home to one of the oldest lighthouses in the Caribbean, which can be visited by hiking to its breathtaking location at the top of a large hill. Better yet, visit the seaward pools known locally as “the Jacuzzis”, a series of shallow, natural sea-fed pools filled with warm water. The “jacuzzi” action comes when the surf refreshes the water supply. You can also snorkel nearby reefs and ledges, or dive the Cayos Ballena, Tiburon and Geniqui a mile to the north.

Day 6
Sail to Vieques.Twenty-one miles long and three to four miles wide, many cruisers consider the bays, coves, and beaches of this island the best of all Virgin Island anchorages. Due to its recent history as a U.S. bombing practice site, the island has been untouched by developers, With a population of only 8,000 human residents living in the central part, the island is also home to a large herd of roaming goats, a few scrawny cattle, and wild Paso Fino horses.

Another Vieques attraction is stargazing. The island is small and only has two small towns. Light pollution is low which is the perfect condition for enjoying a sky full of bright stars. The dark black cloudless skies paint the perfect background for a fantastic show of stars. If you are quiet and listen, the stars twinkle and create a beautiful melody accompanied by the sweet serenading sounds of the Puerto Rican “coquis”.

Day 7
Sail back towards Fajardo and arrive at Isla Palominos, a jewel of a tropical island for your last evening aboard Manna.

Day8
Arrive at Sunbay Marina for preparation to go to SJU Airport by our private van.





This is only a small sample of the possibilities of sailing through the Spanish Virgin Islands. Wayne and Emily onboard S/V Manna will completely customize your special vacation to meet all your needs and expectations. You may want to consider a tour of the rain forest to enjoy the water falls or even indulge in the taste and history of Old San Juan.








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



Thursday, February 20, 2020

Last Minute Special : My Cherie Amour

Catamaran My Cherie Amour
Last Minute Special Offer

Catamaran My Cherie Amour - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacation Yacht Charters

Special Offer

Only $14,500/wk for up to 6 guests for a charter in the Virgin Islands during the period of March 28 to April 10, 2020.7-night minimum. 2 lunches & 1 dinner ashore at client expense.

About My Cherie Amour

My Cherie Amour is a 48-foot Fontaine Pajot catamaran with a crew of two. This catamaran is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 Queen cabins, each with ensuite head (curtained shower & electric-flush toilet). They have a small seating area at the upper helm area on the flybridge.

My Cherie Amour has a 12-foot  center-console dinghy with 15HP motor, kneeboard, scurfer, 2 kayaks, standup paddleboard (SUP), snorkel gear, 2 snorkeling/diving scooters, floating mats, giant 48" blowup flamingo floats, beach games, board games, hammock, TV/DVD in salon, iPod/device hookup, underwater video camera, wifi where available, etc.

My Cherie Amour has an onboard dive instructor and offers diving to certified divers.
Join the catamaran My Cherie Amour next summer on their repositioning journey and have an interesting charter at a great price. For more information, CLICK HERE

Currently available for Christmas and New Years.







Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book MY CHERIE AMOUR
View My Cherie Amour's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com



Catamaran Stop Work Order : 10% discount

10% off Catamaran Stop Work Order

Catamaran Stop Work Order - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations

STOP WORK ORDER, a 52-foot Lagoon catamaran that accommodates up to 8 guests, is offering a 10% discount for charters in the Virgin Islands. This discount is valid for new bookings of charters 6 nights or longer taking place between now and August 9, 2020.

About Stop Work Order

This catamaran is perfect for a variety of charter make-ups: groups of friends, families large and small, extended families, the possibilities are endless.

Stop Work Order is a 52-foot Lagoon with a crew of 2. The yacht is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 Queen cabins, each with private ensuite head (sink, electric-flush toilet, stall shower). There is also the possibility of swapping a Queen cabin for the crew's Twin (upper/lower bunks) cabin for family groups that wish to have separate bunk options.

Stop Work Order has many exterior lounging areas. The flybridge where the helm and sailing functions meet the enormous settee that provides the best seat in the house whether under sail or under the stars. The foredeck cockpit has comfortable seating to relax or gather together with other members of your group. The aft cockpit is where your exquisite meals will be served and is yet another comfortable space to chill out.

Inside you'll find the main salon which houses the open-concept galley, large sofa and table, as well as a flat-screen TV. Below deck you will find 4 well-appointed guest cabins with Queen berth, and ensuite head (sink, electric-flush toilet, stall shower). There is also another cabin with twin upper/lower bunks.

About the crew


Captain Ryan and Chef Dani are excited to deliver high-end vacations to their guests, offering friendly, personable service and professionalism that matches the luxury, comfort and accommodation of Stop Work Order. Over the course of the last 5 years they have sailed more than 7,000 nautical miles. Their passion for people, food, love of the water and sailing creates both an adventurous and a welcoming environment felt by all.

Captain Ryan is a dive instructor and onboard scuba diving is offered on Stop Work Order. To view dive info, CLICK HERE.

Amenities

Amenities include: 14-foot dinghy with 40HP motor, adult & kid waterskis, tube, wakeboard, kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel gear, floating mats, 2 subwings, beach games, underwater camera, underwater video, TV/DVD in salon, iPod/device hookup, onboard wifi where available, etc. Stop Work Order offers onboard diving. See link below for diving detail.

More information


Currently available for Christmas and New Years.






Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book STOP WORK ORDER
View Stop Work Orders's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com






Wednesday, September 19, 2018

SPECIAL OFFER : VALENTINE'S 2019 - Catamaran Lir

Celebrate Valentine's Day on the luxury catamaran LIR,  Mid-February is the perfect time for a winter break with your Sweetheart and escape to the Caribbean.

Catamaran Lir - Crewed Yacht Charters
VI Sailing Vacations

Special Offer

DATES: February 10-15, 2019
LOCATION: Virgin Islands
SPECIAL 5-NIGHT ALL-INCLUSIVE RATES:
  • 2 Guests = $21,071
  • 4 Guests = $22,500
  • 6 Guests = $23,214
  • 8 Guests = $23,929


LIR
67 ft Fontaine Pajot — 4 cabins


Lir is a 67-foot Fontaine Pajot catamaran with a crew of three. This catamaran has a sky lounge, is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 cabins (1 King "owner's suite", 3 Queens). Each guest cabin has a private, ensuite head with shower and electric-flush toilet.

Lir has a 13-foot dinghy with 50HP motor, waterskis, tube, wakeboard, 2-person kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), snorkel equipment, hammock, iPod dock, TV/DVD, onboard wifi, etc. Lir has a Dive Master and offers 5 dives/wk to certified divers, including gear.
Guests: Up to 8
Standard All-Inclusive Rates:
  • 2 Guests = $29,500/wk
  • 4 Guests = $31,500/wk
  • 6 Guests = $32,500/wk
  • 8 Guests = $33,500/wk

Diving: Dive Master - Click for details
Brochure: Click here to view


Make Plans For Valentine's Day NOW
Contact Paradise Connections : CLICK HERE



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








Friday, July 06, 2018

Stop Work Order : Have Lunch

Here is a yummy photo of lunch aboard the catamaran Stop Work Order.



Lunch is served! Wasabi pea crusted Ahi with a Ponzu dressed salad and crispy wontons!


STOP WORK ORDER
52 ft Lagoon Catamaran — 4 Queen cabins


Charter Catamaran Stop Work Order - Sail & Dive the Virgin Islands


  • Crew: 2
  • Guests: Up to 8
  • Cabins: 4 Queen cabins with ensuite heads (sink, shower, electric-flush toilet)
  • Holidays: Booked for Christmas & New Years
  • Diving: Dive Instructor: Click for details
  • Brochure: Click here to view



Questions or would like to book? No problem...
Contact Paradise Connections : CLICK HERE




Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book STOP WORK ORDER
View Stop Work Order's online brochure
For more yachts, visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com






Thursday, June 28, 2018

Catamaran OUI CHERIE, Welcome to the fleet

We would like to welcome Oui Cherie, a 52-foot Lagoon catamaran, to the Virgin Island yacht charter fleet.

Charter Catamaran Oui Cherie - Virgin Islands Sailing Vacations

 About Oui Cherie 

  • Accommodates up to 6 guests 
  • 3 Queen cabins with ensuite head/shower
  • 14-foot dinghy with 40HP motor
  • Toys include: kayak, standup paddle boards, wake board, waterskis
  • 2 Dive masters
  • 3 dives per certified diver included
  • Flybridge seating

 About The Crew 

Ryan and Jill are an energetic, enthusiastic, and experienced crew ready to treat guests to fun, memorable vacations. They have transformed their love for having fun above and below the water into a great vacation package for active groups, families and those wanting to get the most out of their trip. Both Ryan and Jill are Dive Masters. Jill is also a yoga instructor and loves to teach paddle board yoga.




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







Friday, June 22, 2018

Catamaran Elysium - Summer Special

The charter catamaran Elysium, a 62-foot Privilege with a crew of two, has a special offer for this 2018 summer season.

Charter Catamaran Elysium

  Special Offer - Summer 2018 

15% off for any 7-night charter booked and taking place in July & August 2018. Depending on dates, charters may take place either in the VI or St. Maarten area.


  About Catamaran Elysium  

Elysium is a 62-foot Privilege catamaran with a crew of two, Dirk and Nina-Sue.  Elysium has a flybridge, is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 cabins each with private, ensuite head/shower. Inquire about the possibility of a 7th guest in the forward port forepaw cabin. Each cabin has an iPod dock and DVD player. The master cabin is forward port & center and has a centerline King berth. The other two guest cabins  are located aft and also have King berths.

Elysium has a 15-foot dinghy with 70HP motor, adult waterskis, tube, wakeboard, kneeboard, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), 2-person kayak, snorkel gear, fishing equipment, DirectTV, beanbag chairs, TV in salon, wifi internet where available, etc. Dirk is a Dive Master and up to 5 dives/wk and gear are included for certified divers.


Guests: Up to 6 guests in 3 cabins
Special offer: 15% off any 7-night charter booked and taking place in July & August 2018 (Virgin Islands or St Martin)
Holidays:  Currently open for Christmas through December 27
Diving: Dive Master - Click for details
Brochure: Click here to view


Enjoy a sailing vacation with friends or family
Contact Paradise Connections : CLICK HERE



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