#usvi catamaran charter

[sailkindredspiritus]

Luxury Catamaran Charters in USVI: Explore Paradise Aboard

Experience elegance with Kindred Spirit's US Virgin Islands catamaran charters. Private day and overnight tours between St. John and St. Thomas include sunset cruises, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and scuba diving. See famous sights and hidden gems with a seasoned captain for a fantastic vacation!

[yachtchartergal]

Yacht Charter Sample Itinerary USVI & BVI

Unfamiliar with the USVI & BVI? See this newly posted round-trip itinerary with a pick-up and drop-off in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands! It allows for plenty of time for a visit in St. John plus exploring all the best spots in the BVI. Direct flights into St. Thomas (airport code STT) make this an extremely popular choice for our clients who are looking for good prices on airfare. You'll meet your charter yacht at Yacht Haven Grande Marina, the premier marina in the Virgin Islands or in Red Hook, the closest point to St. John and the BVI. Let us advise you on the must-see stops, plus the key activities in the USVI & BVI! 

Learn More: https://www.YachtCharters.Guru 

Special Thanks to: Catamarans Delana Mae & Ocean Vibes for the fun photos & musical inspiration! 

[caribbeanyacht]

Hire Caribbean luxury yacht charter for Various Amazing Benefits

Hire the best and most reliable Caribbean luxury yacht charter and explore nature at your own pace. Caribbean luxury yacht charter provides the best experience for years to come when you step aboard a chartered boat and explore the waters. What you are waiting for? Plan your next vacation to Caribbean luxury yacht charter to explore this unique and amazing experience.

Benefits of Caribbean luxury yacht charter vacation-

It is a perfect paradise for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers and other wanderers. It is bestowed with stunning beaches, rich culture & history, delicious cuis  ines, etc. There are other benefits you can reap.

Hassle-free vacation- All you need is to hire a professional Caribbean luxury yacht charter company to take care of your vacation. They will make you aware of all the things and make your tour fully customized to meet your expectations and budget range.

Relaxing one- Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your life and relax while exploring USVI. Make your day special while on the beach at Cinnamon Bay, wading in the bright turquoise waters or strolling across the pearly sands. Also, you can experience mouth-watering cuisines while cruising across the sea.

Friendly locals- You can have a chance to meet new friendly people and make new friends. The local people of this place are so welcoming.

A great knowledge- As Caribbean luxury yacht charter has a rich history to discover, you can explore life as a pirate on St. Thomas. From St. Thomas in the west to Virgin Gorda in the east, the traditional Virgin Islands cruising area stretches. The Caribbean’s sandy beaches, sparkling waters, and national parks can all be found in the Caribbean luxury yacht charter. The Virgin Islands of the United States of America is culturally, ethnically diverse, and artistically vibrant. The islands are perfect for a yacht charter vacation because of all of this. The Virgin Islands are well-known for their all-year-round sailing. The cruise port of St. Thomas, Charlotte Amalie, is one of the most famous in the Caribbean. With so much to discover, the USVI is sure to keep your mind active!

Many interesting new things- For adventure lovers, there are many things to try on the islands. Enjoy snorkelling at Trunk Bay on St. John to see white sand beaches, abundant wildlife and other magnificent sea life. It is the most stunning of the Caribbean luxury yacht charter, with two-thirds of its land area designated as a national park.

In a nutshell, The USVI is one of the most famous yacht charter destinations in the Caribbean. It provides all the main kinds of yacht charters, including motor, sailing, bareboat charter, skippered, crewed yachts, catamaran, power boat, sailboat, luxury yachts, and, of course, mega yacht charter.

From magnificent scenery, captivating and energetic community, first-class resorts, to duty-free shopping, many things are waiting for you.

Professional companies will help you find the perfect yacht for your trip. You just need to find a reliable and expert service provider that can meet your needs and budgets. You can visit www.caribbeanyachtcharter.com for the bet Caribbean luxury yacht charter

[caribbeanyachtcharter1]

Motor yacht charters are very popular in the US Virgin Islands (USVI). The US Virgin Islands are a great place for a luxury boat holiday because of the area's crystal blue waters, stunning scenery, and pleasant climate. A motor yacht provides all the comforts of a contemporary house along with a roomy and comfortable sailing experience.

[taylordyachtcharters]

CATAMARAN - ONE LOVE - USVI YACHT CHARTER

https://www.taylordyachtcharters.com/yachts/catamaran-one-love-usvi-yacht-charter/

#taylordyachtcharters FTL 954-803-2596 #yachtcharters #yachting #charters #luxury #fun #vacations  #millionairelife #lifestyle #expensive #class #yachts #inspiring #Mediterranean #Caribbean #worldwide #life #travel #style #living

[caribbeanyachts]

A view from a yacht where everything looks blue and the sun becomes the irrelevant orange dot is the sight that one should always seek. Some of these luxuries come by the name BVI catamaran rental and USVI yacht charters. You should know that a Virgin Islands Yacht charter gives one of the similar views once you hop on it to the search of invincibility.

[yourboatholiday]

Hurry up! Last availabilities in the US Virgin Islands! - 20% Discount for crewed charters aboard the Bali 5.4 and the Ipanema 58. USVI XMAS CREWED CATAMARAN CHARTERS -20% Bali 5.4 -> Dec 18th to 28th 2021 -20% Ipanema 58 -> Dec 19th to 27th 2021 Give us a call on WhatsApp at +393343600997 or send an email to ask@yourboatholiday.com For charters in the USVI view more at https://www.yourboatholiday.com/destinations/caribbean-yacht-charter/us-virgin-islands-yacht-charter/ Follow us @yourboatholiday #yourboatholiday #christmas #christmasoffers #christmascatamaranoffers #christmascatamaran #christmasintheusvi #usvicatamaranchristmas #catamaranoffersusvi https://www.instagram.com/p/CWbLtLAsajA/?utm_medium=tumblr

[royaltyyachts]

New Years Catamaran Charter in the BVI and USVI Available Due to Cancellation: December 29, 2019 to January 05, 2020 Based in Yacht Haven Grand, USVI

[princesrupali]

JAN'S FELION | ⛵️BVI Yacht Charter Catamaran #charterguru A walkthrough of the catamaran JAN'S FELION, a Lagoon 64, in Nanny Cay, BVI 2018. Charter this catamaran or other catamarans ⛵️  at https://charterguru.com/ Charter Guru BVI, the ultimate search engine with over 400 BVI yachts for charter. Our Florida, California, BVI and USVI based brokers are ready to assist you with your search. Crewed yachts, bareboat, sailboats, motor yachts, we have them all. Just fill out a simple form and we will call, advise and book it for you! If you are crew, manager or the owner of the yacht and you'd like to request edits, please contact mo@charterguru.com

[sailkindredspiritus]

Explore St. John USVI – Premier Catamaran Charters Await!

Join Kindred Spirit as she sets sail from St. John, USVI! Activities such as sailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, beach games, and catamaran charters St. John USVI are available on our exclusive excursions. A fantastic adventure awaits you on a private catamaran cruise or BVI charter with a captain. Book your Kindred Spirit Charter today—reservations open again on November 1, 2024!

[yachtchartergal]

🆕 Video! Congrats to 58’ Charter Catamaran EMYSA! The yacht and crew took home 1st Place for USVI 2023 Best in Show for Yachts 51’ to 60’! The moment you walk aboard this yacht, you notice the huge open air main salon and galley. Guest Comments: “This was the most amazing trip we have EVER had! The boat was beyond comfortable and stocked with anything and everything we could have wanted or needed.

Capt. Bastian & Chef Sarai were above and beyond in every way. Then there is the food & dining experience on EMYSA.. No words... We dined like royalty. Each meal was well thought out, planned & delicious! We had lots to celebrate on this trip & they made it so special and memorable.

🚩EMYSA Info: https://bit.ly/SailEmysa

Learn More: https://www.YachtCharters.Gur

[caribbeanyacht]

Virgin Islands Crewed Yacht Charter: Luxury, Adventure, Experiences

The Virgin Islands are a popular destination for yacht and sailboat charters. The clear blue waters, pristine beaches and lush landscapes offer a perfect setting for a relaxed sailing vacation. A popular option for larger groups is crewed catamarans, which offer spacious accommodations, and a variety of water-based activities. Catamarans are known for their stability, and offer a comfortable sailing experience, making them a great choice for those looking to spend extended periods at sea.

A typical crewed catamaran charter in the Virgin Islands crewed yacht charter will offer guests a chance to explore the various islands, anchor in secluded bays and enjoy water-based activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing. With multiple sleeping arrangements, guests can enjoy their privacy, and meals will be prepared by the crew to ensure a fantastic dining experience. Sailboat charters are another popular option for those looking for a more intimate sailing experience.

A sailboat offers a more traditional sailing experience and allows guests to participate in the sailing activities. Sailboat charters in the Virgin Islands come with a skipper who will navigate the vessel, but guests can get involved with the sailing and help set the sails or steer the boat.

The Virgin Islands crewed yacht charter offer plenty of opportunities for sailors to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. From St. Thomas to Tortola, and everything in between, there are plenty of stunning beaches and hidden coves to explore. Whether it's a crewed catamaran, motor yacht or a sailboat charter, the Virgin Islands are a must-visit destination for sailing enthusiasts. With a range of options available, there is something for everyone, and the memories created on a sailing vacation in the Virgin Islands catamaran charter will last a lifetime.

The US Virgin Islands (USVI) are a popular destination for motor yacht charters. The clear blue waters, beautiful landscapes, and warm climate make the USVI an ideal location for a luxury yacht vacation. A motor yacht offers a spacious and comfortable sailing experience, with all the amenities of a modern home.

A typical motor yacht charter in the USVI will provide guests with a captain and crew who will handle all aspects of the yacht operation, from navigation to meal preparation. Guests can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery and beaches, as well as participate in various water-based activities, such as fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The USVI offers an array of beautiful anchorages, including stunning bays, secluded coves, and picturesque beaches. Whether it’s the stunning coastline of St. Thomas or the lush tropical scenery of St. John, there is something for everyone. With a range of motor yachts available, guests can choose the perfect vessel to suit their needs. From smaller yachts ideal for a romantic getaway, to larger yachts perfect for families or groups of friends, there is a motor yacht to suit everyone's needs. In conclusion, a motor yacht charter in the USVI is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean, in comfort and luxury. With an experienced crew to handle the details, guests can relax and enjoy the unforgettable scenery, beaches, and activities that the USVI has to offer.

Discover the beauty of the US Virgin Islands catamaran charter on your own yacht. Enjoy safe waters, easy navigation, and short trips to new destinations. Sneed Tropical yacht charters is the place to go for yacht rental options, including motor yachts, catamarans, and sail monohulls. Choose from crewed yachts for a week or just a few days. Our fleet offers outstanding boats from 38' to over 200' with professional, knowledgeable crews. Experience the comfort and smooth sailing for yourself. If you want a motor yacht, Catamaran or a sail monohull, our team will help you make it happen.

BVI'S YACHT CHARTERS

Crewed yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer a luxurious and intimate way to explore one of the world's top sailing destinations. With a crew on hand to attend to your every need, you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and world-renowned sailing conditions of this Caribbean paradise. A typical crewed yacht charter in the BVI includes a captain, a chef, and perhaps a stewardess, all of whom will ensure that you have a comfortable, memorable, and stress-free vacation. The captain is responsible for navigating the yacht and ensuring your safety, while the chef will prepare delicious meals and drinks to your liking. The stewardess will look after your cabins, keep the yacht clean and tidy, and assist the chef and captain as needed. One of the biggest advantages of a crewed yacht or catamaran charter is the flexibility it offers. You can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and desires, whether that means exploring secluded coves and bays, snorkelling and diving in vibrant coral reefs, or just soaking up the sun and scenery on a quiet beach. The crew can also make recommendations for the best places to go and what to do, so you can be sure you're making the most of your time in the BVI.

For more information, call us +1 561-459-5316 today!

[coolestcarib]

ST. CROIX 😎🌴#CoolestCarib. Wow, what a beautiful pic! This photo is of Buck Island in St. Croix, USVI. Gorgeous! Do yourself a favor, go on a catamaran sail snorkel adventure to Buck Island Reef National Monument. Buck Island is a small, uninhabited, 176 acre island about 1.5 miles north of the northeast coast of Saint Croix. It has a beautiful beach and a underwater snorkel trail. It's visible from The New Deep End Bar and Grille, located on the property of Tamarind Reef Resort. Posted by @newdeepend For Buck Island Catamaran tours contact Captain Mike at Jolly Roger Charters A shoutout to our comrades in #StCroix #USVI: @leadingedgekiteschool @olympicstcroix @chenaybay #SaintCroix is featured on CoolestCarib.com. #CoolestCarib_StCroix. Pay it forward!

[ozsaill]

Caribbean cruising after hurricanes Irma and Maria

A stream of migrating boats attest that the Caribbean sailing season is starting NOW. The fleet heading north from Grenada and Trinidad, those taking the offshore route from the USA, and boats in the trans-Atlantic fleets. Yet questions about the Caribbean’s readiness in a post-hurricane season still swirl: after the havoc of Irma and Maria, what’s changed? Where can we go? Even for sailors here in the islands, contemplating their next move, the answer seems to hang just out of reach like a suspenseful plot twist.

Spoiler: THE CARIBBEAN IS WAITING FOR YOU. You can go now. Please.

St John, USVI, photographed THIS week by Yelena Rogers

I get that there is some reluctance. People love them some disaster porn, and the media served up a ton of drama in the wake of the storms. In fairness, it was ALL that in the aftermath: my first reaction after Irma hit was “welp, there goes this season for the Caribbean.” Total knee jerk reaction to the shocking pictures, and… it seems that I was wrong.

While rebuilding from the impact of these massive storms will take time, that doesn’t mean the islands aren’t capable of welcoming boats now: overwhelmingly, they are. Overwhelmingly, it’s safe. Overwhelmingly, you’re not a drain on constrained resources. In fact, the funds spent by visiting cruisers and charters are badly needed – tourist dollars are critical to most island economies!

It IS going to be different: know what to expect. Do your homework on destinations. I don’t want to sugar coat reality: there are places that still don’t have power, and places still don’t have water. You may not want to go there. Some are waiting for both, and more (phone service? Internet?), like Jost Van Dyke. Upscale tourism… not happening. BIG DEAL.

Mostly? The mantra I keep hearing: this will be like the Caribbean 30 (40, 50 ) years ago: before it was developed with an eye to cater to the high end of tourism. The new definition of “beach bar” is a guy by the palm tree with a cooler of beer inviting you to join him and learn about his home. But who better to visit, and put a few bucks into the economy, than self-sufficient cruisers who show up on our floating islands and supply our utilities, make our own water, generate our own power?

How do you know where it’s OK to go?

Ports & Projects is a brilliantly simple interactive map to answer that question. The tool was recently launched by the team at Sailors Helping (website, Facebook), a nonprofit that’s the brainchild of cruisers Victoria Fine and Jon Vidar. Based in Puerto Rico, they founded the organization to help their island neighbors after Irma hit, harnessing the help of hundreds of cruisers and other islanders. Under their watch, commercial vessels, private boats, even plans were coordinated with goods to deliver where it was needed with a speed and agility that the larger relief groups couldn’t match. But the bigger organizations have stepped in now, so Sailors Helping has a new direction to support the islands.

“We know the best way to help islands recover is to encourage cruisers and tourists to return,” says Victoria. “We knew that coming into damaged ports without clear information could be intimidating, so we decided to fix the problem ourselves.”

Developed with the help of Janeiro Digital, volunteer Jonathan Bingham’s organization, Ports & Projects lets you browse through islands on the map to learn 1) where you can go, and 2) where you can help. A solid base of information is in the tool already, and more is being added all the time. Here’s a sample of the page for Nanny Cay, on Tortola in the BVI. Remember Awesome Ted? He’s the boatyard manager there. We know this info is spot on!

Navigate the website to find an island – and then a port – and then the detailed information. For each port listed, there will be current access status. Information about the availability of mooring/docking/anchoring… water, fuel, and power…groceries… bars/restaurants…etc. EASY.

Where can you help?

The cruising community is famously giving. A lot of people have asked: what can I do to help? Planning for this, instead of winging it, is smart. Sailors Helping is building this into their tool by including project listings by port. Information includes:

The nature of the project (curated based ease of access to harbors)

Timeline

Skillsets needed

Materials needed

This information will be updated throughout the season – and cruisers who visit can submit their own reports to help keep them current, too. Here’s a snapshot of a project request on Anegada, BVI.

We’re members of the Ocean Cruising Club, which has used this feature to plan volunteer activities for rally boats after they arrive—so many cruisers want to give back to the islands they visit. (Side note: if you have questions about OCC, get in touch. We’re generally not joiners; this is a fine organization)

Pool’s open!

When we get the anchor set, Jamie usually yells out – “the pool’s open!” Well, hopeful cruisers, the pool’s open at the Caribbean islands hit by Irma and Maria. In October I sat on a panel for Cruising World at the Annapolis boat show, to talk about the post #Irmaria hurricane season. Preparing for that I had updates from folks who stick their heads underwater in these islands – people who dive for conservation, or for their jobs, or for fun. It’s not totally unscathed (that awesome Kraken sculpture fell over!) but reports are good. In the BVI, despite exposure of islands to the force of the storm, there are sites such as the wreck of the RMS Rhone that appear almost completely untouched.

Wreck of the Rhone, AFTER the hurricanes – look at that coral!

Want more info? check these out:

Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) BVI – has volunteer reef-check opportunities!

Saba Conservation Foundation – the good folks that are checking all the moorings!

Security

Were we headed back to the islands, instead of the Pacific, my #1 concern would be security. Are we subject to increased risk, in island where people are more wanting? The reports of looting in the wake of the hurricanes was very real. But that’s been a couple of months now – and everything I hear suggests the risk of crime isn’t elevated now. MOSTLY. So be smart: like you always should! Check the Caribbean Safety & Security Net. Look for updates on an island’s Noonsite page. Ask and read in island-specific or Caribbean regional Facebook groups. Talk to people near you who may have passed through. Get a pulse for where you want to go and decide…just like you NORMALLY should anyway.

Big picture planning

Here’s a little perspective. The HORRIBLE DEVASTATION PLASTERED EVERYWHERE IN THE MEDIA (well for a little while anyway): here’s how much of the Caribbean was meaningfully affected.

Right: it’s not that much, is it! In fact, mostly there wasn’t an impact. So here’s a zoom in at that corner, and focus on the hard hit area:

Skipping the Caribbean “because of the hurricanes”? YOUR ARGUMENT IS INVALID.

It’s really not much. Blue dotted lines: I’d be checking these spots and considering carefully to pick/choose where to go. Green lines: lots of rebuilding happening, but not off the menu. Red: let’s give Barbuda some space shall we?! If places rebuilding make you uncomfortable with the decision, one option, really, is just to skip by a handful of spots. But a modicum of research will allow an informed choice. And that, really, is the only “hard” part about this Caribbean season: sailors who may wish to skip a spot might actually have to sail overnight now and again. NOTHING is far.

Info and resources by Island

To be clear, we have not returned to these islands ourselves. I’d like to, and it’s tempting, but our priority right now is to cross the circumnavigation track in Pacific Mexico before Niall heads off to college – so we’re Panama bound. But were we to spend another year in the Caribbean: I’d have no qualms. Here’s why, and where I’d look, to have confidence in the places we’d go with our family. If you have other resources that are useful, please add them in the comments or message me! I’d like to help cruisers, and charterers, feel good about their choices. After the go-to resources above, from Sailors Helping, Noonsite, and Facebook – here’s more on islands that hopeful visitors may be wondering about.

PUERTO RICO

Marina Pescaderia

Puerto del Rey Cruisers group

Culebra Cruisers and Boaters

Puerto Rico was hard hit by Maria, and many areas don’t have power. But key ports are ready for cruisers. PR is exceptionally well covered in the Ports & Projects site. At the southwest corner, near Cabo Rojo, we were happy to hear from the awesome marina manger of Marina Pescaderia (Jose Mendez) that they have power, and water, and internet. This is a perfect first stop in PR! Friends recently departed from here, and Jose helped them–of course!–with information and resources. On the north coast, friends in the San Juan Bay Marina and Puerto Del Rey on the northeast have similar positive updates. Puerto Rico has “stuff,” duty-free fuel, and I think is the friendliest stop in the Caribbean.

Sourced on Facebook – Playa Buye, PR, near Marina Pescaderia

USVI – St Thomas

Pizza Pi IV – famous Christmas Cove floating pizzeria opens Dec. 2!

Stormy Petrel & Pirates Penny – day charters booking NOW, and the captains also have a catamaran AirBnB!

USVI Cruisers and Boaters group

I’ve been chatting with my friend Kristie Weiss. We met in Isles des Saintes, Guadeloupe last year; her family is now living on St Thomas and went through both hurricanes. She took this picture on the beach behind Green Cay and says that right now is an amazing time to be in the VIs. “The green on the new growth is beautiful, the water is stunning and there are NO people!!!!” Who wouldn’t want a beach like the one below, instead of one packed with people? Moi. You would NEVER get this beach to yourself in a normal year… and by the way, the Abi Beach Bar just out of frame is open.

It’s not just the water that’s looking good. Here’s a view of Charlotte Amalie during last week’s Caribbean boat show. Photo by Phil Blake, and thanks to Marina at Yacht Haven Grande for sharing it.

USVI- St John

News of St John– wondering which restaurants are open? Latest pics? That’s here.

Poet’s Lounge– crewed charters. lost the boat in Coral Bay, but are sailing a new vessel from the US now! This awesome crew REALLY knows St John.

Sail Starlight– crewed charters throughout the eastern Caribbean, but well versed in the USVI

Coral Bay views are looking beautiful. These pictures posted by the Skinny Legs bar & restaurant (thanks guys!) this week:

St John’s relatively sparse population and light infrastructure mean a longer rebuild time. The good folks at Skinny’s know the scoop: “Anchoring in Coral Bay could be difficult for the unfamiliar. There were a lot of boats sunk in the storms and there is still a lot of debris out there. The outer bays would be better than Coral Bay harbor.” But they go on with the good news: the Coral Bay Yacht Club is hosting its annual Thanksgiving Regatta!  And – Skinny’s expects to open by early December, so you can get your fix from their awesome burgers soon.

BVI

BVI Traveller magazine’s Sailing Report–  BVIs smaller island updates for boaters

BVI Community Board– unvarnished reality of everyday life, particularly on Tortola, from potholes on.

Aristocat Charters– booking for January 2018!

Nanny Cay Friends & Boat Owners– hit hard, but the marina is jamming on recovery and taking boats now

The damage in the BVIs was meaningful, and where there’s a lot of development (like Road Town) it’s going to take time. But my friend, Tortola resident, and awesome blogger Brittany put it–paraphrasing from fuzzy boat show memories here!–“the islands are now green, the water is still turquoise, and the beer is cold!” It might be harder to get to the grocery store (but wow, it’s STOCKED), and you might not get to visit the iconic beach bars still rebuilding (Foxy’s, Soggy Dollar) but the BVIs belong on a cruising itinerary. You just might want to pick a different route than the conventional recommendations based on what’s most ready for visitors…like this boat arriving, THIS week, into Nanny Cay marina with the Caribbean 1500.

We took the pic below, and the one on the top of this post at BVIs icon, The Baths, on our daysail with Aristocat Charters. FWIW: the ONLY pre-hurricane pics in this whole post. Based on what I’ve seen in social media… they look JUST THE SAME. So go.

Sailors Helping covers the main ports: the BVI Traveller link above helps with details for the little islands. And check out the BVI Strong Flotilla events! They are organizing “Sunday Funday” parties: float in, swim, dance, drink, enjoy the beautiful islands… their regular events are at favorite BVIs destinations that look like WAY too much fun…and the Anegada Lobster Festival is coming soon.

ANGUILLA

For port info, see Sailors helping, but check out “What We Do In Anguilla” for current info on land. They’ve got a list of what’s open: it includes 34 restaurants and 5 groceries, and just makes me wonder… what’s NOT open?

SXM

Sint Maarten Cruisers & Boaters (SXM)

Daily Herald – island newspaper just announced the Simpson Bridge has re-opened!

St Martin / Sint Maarten has felt a little harder to peg. The reports coming out after the ‘cane were pretty awful. But in some ways, SXM is better situated for recovery than many islands: their utilities are largely underground, so easier to bounce back with fewer repairs. What’s not clear is what’s on the bottom of the lagoon and when it will be safe for anchoring. But friends in SXM visiting their boat this week (which survived!). The lagoon may not have boats anchored out, but dinghies are zipping around. Dinghy docks are opening up at Dinghy Dock restaurant, Simpson Bay Marina, Shrimpy’s, and even Marina Port Royale (although probably care required near the marina). Chandleries and grocery stores and shops are open, as are quite a few bars & restaurants – they are doing their part to partonize them.  Fighting the good fight, Brian & Rebecca!

I like how Rebecca summed it up: “Sure, there is debris and destruction but they are cleaning up, and I had a lovely swim at Buccaneer yesterday! I think if you can deal with minor inconveniences, and you love it here, come back and spend your money, that seems to be what is needed most!”

DOMINICA

Dominica Cruisers– FB group of cruisers who love/visit Dominica

Embrace Dominica– now showcasing 100% post-Maria footage

Dominica was our favorite stop in the Caribbean. It is heartbreaking to see how hard it’s been hit. There are two main ports for cruisers: Portsmouth, and Roseau. Roseau is the main settlement. If we were headed back that way, I’d anchor in Portsmouth, work with one of the great guys who make up PAYS (Portsmouth Association of Yacht Services), and do my best to put $$ into their economy. I’d check in with Sailors Helping on any projects to join, and ask with the International Rescue Group (a solid relief org that’s focused on Dominica right now) and see what they need or how we could help.

Want to join other boats to help?

Sailors Helping is planning their own Rally to Rebuild as a multi-day effort at sites across the islands in January 2018. “It’ll definitely be a work-hard-play-hard event,” Victoria says with a laugh. “Volunteers will be able to restore local homes and independent businesses. Sundowners will be optional but highly encouraged!” This sounds like fun! Dates and details are coming – sign up at SailorsHelping.org to get emailed details as they’re available.

Soon come, y’all. The islands are waiting!

Got more info, resources, whatever to add? Let me know in the comments or by getting in touch!

from Sailing Totem http://ift.tt/2zLPrdz via IFTTT

[caribbeanyachts]

Primarily dominated by tourism, the territory of the United States Virgin Islands consists of around 50 islands and cays.  If you take a look around some Virgin Islands yacht charter agencies, you’ll find catamarans quite the popular choice. Besides USVI, you can also have a fun vacation on a bvi catamaran rental.

[rnrmarineservices-blog]

Second Category 5 hurricane batters Caribbean, but 2018 regattas will go ahead

Despite two devastating Category 5 hurricanes in just two weeks, the Caribbean regatta season will go ahead for 2018

Just two weeks after Hurricane Irma pounded many of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean and Florida, leaving around 70 dead, a second Category 5 hurricane, Maria, is currently hitting areas of the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Dominica was devastated by 150mph winds from Hurricane Maria last night, with early reports suggesting seven people died on the island. St Croix, on the US Virgin Islands, was spared the eye of the hurricane, but pummelled by Maria's eyewall.

A hurricane warning is still in effect for the British Virgin Islands, where many areas are littered with debris and loose building materials from Hurricane Irma. Flooding is also a concern with vast swathes of vegetation blown away, and almost all leaves removed from trees and plants across many of the islands. Between 10 and 20 inches of rain were forecast for the BVIs as Maria passed to the south-west, with a storm surge of 7-11ft. The islands of Guadaloupe and Martinique were also hit last night, with at least one fatality.

Damage to Virgin Gorda South Harbour after Hurricane Irma. Photo: Diane Sawyer

The situation is greatly complicated by the havoc wreaked by Hurricane Irma just two weeks previously. Communications in many areas had not been fully restored, and on some islands almost all dwellings had been demolished or suffered severe damage leaving little in the way of viable shelter.

Judy Petz, director of the BVI Spring Regatta, contacted Yachting World before Maria reached the islands. This is an unimaginable time, she commented. We had made so much progress with relief efforts and we will now need to double or go five times higher with help.

The recovery process had been in full swing in the BVIs before Maria's approach. On the island of Tortola, Nanny Cay had become a central focus of operations, with power and some running water restored. The military were using Nanny Cay as a headquarters to co-ordinate relief efforts, and many doctors and medical workers accommodated there. Boats which were salvageable had been moved to the outer marina, with surveyors and repairers working on damaged yachts.

Nanny Cay in the BVIs had made rapid progress ahead of Hurricane Maria, becoming a hub for the marine rescue efforts on Tortola

Jonas Ball from insurers Pantaenius reported that they had set up a mobile claims office on a catamaran in the BVIs to begin processing the huge numbers of damaged yachts, but their team of surveyors had had to leave for safety earlier this week as Maria approached.

What we are currently doing is identifying our clients' vessels and trying to coordinate first salvage operations. Our work in the Caribbean is now interrupted by Hurricane Maria and we are not sure yet when we will be able to continue.

Hurricane Maria will most certainly add damage to the already catastrophic situation on some of the islands although it is not expected to follow the exact passage of Irma. This means the surveys and salvage operations in Florida can continue for the moment.

However, in the wake of Hurricane Irma many organisers pledged that the renowned spring Caribbean regatta circuit will be up and running as usual for 2018. The St Maarten Heinken Regatta was one of the first to announce its intention to run next March, despite the French-Dutch island of St Maarten suffering some of the heaviest damage in the region.

Hurricane Irma as seen from satellite

Race director Paul Miller said that the decision to go ahead with the regatta was made very quickly. We have a single pillar economy, we get almost 100% of our income from tourism. It's deeply symbolic that the regatta should go ahead, and it's a rallying point.

Miller reported that although high numbers of yachts had been destroyed in St Maarten, much of the marine infrastructure was still intact, including sail lofts, riggers, and the Budget Marine store. The St Maarten Yacht Club's main building remained intact, although docks, decks and other structures were demolished or damaged.

By the middle of November, in terms of a boat owner coming to the island, you won't notice any difference. I've seen our sailing communities recover fro this before, and they start to recover very quickly.

The message is come. This is an opportunity to see the real Caribbean. There will be a Caribbean season and it will be a great season.

Antigua Sailing Week also announced their intention to run as normal next year, along with other Antiguan events including the 10th anniversary RORC Caribbean 600 race, Antigua Classic Regatta, and the Antigua to Bermuda offshore.

Alison Sly Adams of the Caribbean Sailing Association told Yachting World after Hurrican Irma: I am relieved to say that Antigua escaped damage and no negative impact on our yachting industry at all. However, she emphasised that neighbouring island of Barbuda (part of the nation of Antigua andBarbuda), which suffered devastating damage and was entirely evacuated, will require support from Antigua and for that, the Antiguan tourism and the sailing industry will need international support.

Kathy Lammers, chairman of Antigua Sailing Week organising committee, added that the liveaboard community in Antigua was also unscathed.

The BVI Spring Regatta was one of many to announce that the 2018 event would take place as normal

The BVI Spring Regatta will be going ahead. Regatta director Judy Petz commented by email: It will be different regatta for sure, but it will also be a time when sailors unite and the spirit of the regatta families is what the people of the country will need. The waters and winds will still be magnificent.

In common with other islands, accommodation on the BVIs may be more limited than usual, so the more boats that come self-contained the better, Petz added. The new docks will be in place at Nanny Cay Marina, so our regatta home will be there.

St Maarten Heineken Regatta organisers were looking into the possibility of using a cruise liner to accommodate crews.

The Les Voiles de St Barths regatta will also continue as usual.

The make-up of some fleets may be slightly different next year, particularly in the bareboat classes. The charter industry is still assessing the situation after several fleets were badly damaged by Irma. Paraquita Bay in the BVIs, frequently used as a hurricane shelter by charter companies during lesser storms, saw hundreds of boats decimated by the unprecedented Category 5 hurricane.

Paraquita Bay, a well known protected hurricane hole in the BVIs, saw many yachts destroyed or badly damaged by the exceptional Cat 5 storm Irma

At this week's Southampton Boat Show, Sunsail reported that its bases in the Bahamas, St Lucia, Grenada and Belize were fully operational, although Sunsail's marinas and fleet in the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten had been severely affected.

In a statement on their website Dream Yacht Charter founder, Loic Bonnet, said that they were in contact when communications allow with BVI and St. Maarten and all other bases are operational. Dream Yacht Charter report that they expect to be operational in St. Maarten within the coming weeks.

The overwhelming message from all event organisers we spoke to was that by next spring it will be business as usual, and anyone thinking of experiencing a Caribbean race week should plan to do so, enjoy some great sailing, and support the islands' recovery.

How to help

Tomorrow, Thursday, 21 September Antigua Sailing Week shipping and logistics partner Peters & May will be hosting a Caribbean Cocktail and Fundraiser at the Southampton Boat Show with funds raised for relief efforts on the islands of Barbuda, St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, BVI and USVI.

The UK marine industry has formed a new charity, Sail Aid UK, to support hurricane victimshttps://www.facebook.com/sailaiduk/

A fundraising dinner will be held on Saturday 11, November on the 'Flight Deck' at Land Rover BAR, the home of the British America's Cup challengers in Portsmouth. High profile sailing names that have already pledged their support for the cause include Sir Ben Ainslie, Ian Walker, Shirley Robertson, Sam Davies, Andy Beadsworth and Helena Lucas amongst others.

Dinghies in Antigua racing as part of Bart's Bash, the worldwide sailing charity race, raising funds for sailing communities affected by the 2017 hurricanes

Bart's Bash, the global dinghy and yacht race which raises money for the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation, this year raised funds to help rebuild community sailing projects on Caribbean islands affected by Hurricane Irma.

The Caribbean Sailing Association has a list of charities and resources in aid of those islands most affected by Hurricane Irma:https://caribbean-sailing.com/how-to-help-those-devastated-by-hurricane-irma/

Look out for a full report on the making of Hurricane Irma, and what it means for the Caribbean, in next month's Yachting World, out on 12 October.

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