SHERAKHAN Yacht Charter Review

Mega yacht charter is very much about the “mega,” and the 228-foot Sherakhan is an impressive yacht by any standards. She towers high above most 120- to 150-foot yachts on the quay, with guests enjoying a bird’s-eye view from truly rarefied air. And since Sherakhan is able to accommodate 26 guests, she is not only one of the biggest, but also one of the largest-capacity charter yachts in the world. She offers size, style, and a level of service that can only come after an owner has spent years learning the intricacies of the mega yacht charter industry.

mega-yacht-sherakhan228′ Sherakhan

Sherakhan was created by Jan Verkerk, who previously owned and operated the 124-foot motoryacht Jaguar for Mediterranean yacht charter. He learned while running Jaguar that people sometimes book mega yacht charter vacations with two or more yachts in tandem, to accommodate a larger group of guests at one time. Verkerk saw this trend as an opportunity to create a new breed of mega yacht charter, one that offers super-size yachts that meet international regulations for taking more than the typical 12 charter guests.

Verkerk spent three years creating Sherakhan and outfitting her in a style that would appeal to Caribbean as well as Mediterranean yacht charter clients. When he found the hull, she was known as Princess Margaret, an abandoned commercial ship that was originally built in 1965. Verkerk refitted that hull and built out the interior to mega yacht charter standards, with the project being completed in 2008. His young daughter chose the name Sherakhan because she liked a character in Disney’s The Jungle Book.

jacuzziSundeck Hot Tub

Since Sherakhan was stripped and rebuilt almost from scratch, Verkerk could add all kinds of mega yacht charter amenities. The yacht thus offers a full-service spa, a private library, a sauna, an indoor gymnasium, a massive sundeck hot tub that can accommodate as many as 18 guests, and a breathtaking, two-level dining room for formal occasions. Those mega yacht charter amenities are in addition to things like tenders, Jet Skis, Wave Runners, and other toys that are traditionally available onboard “regular-size” boats for Caribbean and Mediterranean yacht charter.

Because Sherakhan accommodates so many charter guests, most of the cabins are accessed along a single corridor. Verkerk ensured that even the smallest, twin-bed cabins are the size of some master suites aboard 120-foot motoryachts, with closets and drawers that would easily swallow enough clothing to last each guest several weeks. A handful of cabins are designed specifically for children, with playful bunk beds and colorful accouterments. Every detail has been considered to make guests of all ages as comfortable as possible.

yacht-charter-dining-mezzanineDining Mezzanine

The master suite is most impressive, offering a view from one of the upper decks of almost every angle surrounding Sherakhan herself. The master cabin bathroom includes a hot tub surrounded by brilliant, mosaic tiles, and there also a private office for the principal charter client’s use. This cabin is one of the largest and most impressive aboard any boat available for mega yacht charter, certain to make whoever sleeps there feel like a master of the sea.

masterMaster Suite

For Mediterranean yacht charter during the summer months, Sherakhan fits beautifully at the prime marinas from Antibes to Monaco, with her dark blue hull making her look as if she’s dressed in formal wear alongside similar-size white mega yachts. In terms of mega yacht charter in the Caribbean during the winters, Sherakhan’s sheer size prevents her from docking in smaller marinas such as the one at St. Barth’s, but the crew are well-trained to anchor out and ferry guests to and from shore using the yacht’s three separate tenders. This usually means that Sherakhan is at anchor alongside many of the newest, most impressive mega yachts in the world.

Verkerk personally spends a great deal of time aboard Sherakhan and is continually investing in maintenance and upkeep. He is not the yacht’s professional captain, but he has been known to take the helm during charters and serve surreptitiously as a member of the crew, both to help out and to make sure that clients are as happy as possible with their mega yacht charter experience.

spaThe Spa

That level of devotion to the world of mega yacht charter is as unique in the industry as Sherakhan herself. It is one of the many reasons that we recommend her as a Mediterranean yacht charter option, as well as for charters in the Caribbean. Sherakhan is truly impressive, a mega yacht charter experience that is not to be missed.

Whatever type of Yacht Charter suits your desires. Please refer to our Contact Page so that we can begin making your dreams a reality.

ATLANTICA Yacht Charter Review

Luxury yacht charter is fast becoming a staple in the British Virgin Islands, where more and more mega yachts are spending each winter cruising alongside the smaller catamarans the previously dominated the region. One reason that the BVI is attracting so many luxury yacht charter clients is its underwater life, something that the 135-foot Christensen Atlantica is well-outfitted to help clients explore in true comfort.

 

luxury-yacht-atlantica135′ Atlantica

The owner of Atlantica believes that the luxury yacht charter experience should include snorkeling, scuba diving, and serious fishing. When he bought Atlantica in 2007, he outfitted her with professional-quality gear, a crew who love scuba and fishing as much as he does, and a 37-foot Intrepid tender with a drop-down staircase for divers to get easily in and out of the water. The idea of a luxury yacht charter aboard Atlantica is to interact with the underwater environment, not to sit at a marina dock. Capt. Roy Hodges and his crew are happy to teach beginners as well as create excitement for seasoned anglers and divers alike.

 

luxury-yacht-charter-fishingFishing from the Intrepid

Aboard Atlantica, guests can enjoy a true luxury yacht charter experience thanks to a $2.3-million refit that was completed in November 2008. Work at Derecktor Shipyard in the Northeastern United States included installing new soft goods in all of the guest areas, new carpeting in some of the guest areas, new ice makers for those hot BVI afternoons, and new appliances to ensure that guest laundry can be done on request. The primary generator was rebuilt to ensure that the air conditioning can run at full power to keep charter guests comfortable, and the main engine and passarelle were serviced and refurbished to ensure that they, too, are in top working order.

 

yacht-charter-salonSalon Forward

The refit of Atlantica also included paying serious attention to the onboard entertainment systems, which are a key component in any luxury yacht charter experience. The existing WiFi system was upgraded to a VSAT model, which uses satellite technology to provide better Internet access when the yacht is far from WiFi hubs on land. Each guest area received a new iPod docking station, and every single television onboard was replaced. There are now 27 brand-new televisions onboard Atlantica, each with two dedicated receivers for U.S. satellite and Latin America DirecTV reception. Eight Kaleidescape players are also now on the yacht, each linked to a Crestron control system that makes it easy for guests to access the digital movie library.

Atlantica is a yacht that welcomes families to the luxury yacht charter experience, which is why the owner also invested in children’s-size water-sports equipment and railings that can be installed as an additional safety precaution on deck. The crew take family fun to extremes, decorating the yacht for theme night parties with disco balls and treasure chests and dressing up in bell bottoms and pirate outfits. The fun for kids can literally last from dawn until bedtime every day.

 

luxury-yachtcharter-sundeckSundeck

That’s not to say that adults won’t feel equally pampered onboard Atlantica. The master stateroom is located on Atlantica’s main deck. It includes an impressive his-and-her bathroom that alone contains several televisions as well as a veritable ocean of striking, emerald-green marble. The view from the master stateroom’s windows is impressive, as well, letting luxury yacht charter clients take in their surroundings at the same time they are enjoying the yacht’s most private onboard comforts.

luxuryyacht-masterMaster Stateroom

When it’s time for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the food served onboard Atlantica is healthy—especially if charter clients take advantage of the yacht’s fishing program. Enjoying fresh fish and sushi can be a part of as many meals as guests desire. Of course, the chef is happy to prepare other favorite dishes, as well, including decadent desserts if that’s what guests prefer. Most meals can be enjoyed in fresh air on the aft deck thanks to an overhang that provides excellent sun and rain protection.

 

luxury-yacht-charter-aftAft Deck

In the British Virgin Islands, all of these qualities make Atlantica an excellent choice for a luxury yacht charter vacation—including for first-time clients who prefer near-shore cruising to open-water passages. The natural geography of the BVI allows for lots of time on the beach and in the water, as opposed to countless hours spent moving the yacht from one waypoint to the next. When you add the attributes of the BVI to the amenities onboard Atlantica, you get a luxury yacht charter combination that is tough to beat.

 

Whatever type of Yacht Charter suits your desires. Please refer to our Contact Page so that we can begin making your dreams a reality.
Tim Nelson
Yacht Charter Broker
2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis FL 34275 USA
800-346-5355 • 941-966-6017 • Fax: 212-500-0028
email: tim@sevenseascharters.com

BVI Yacht Charter

The British Virgin Islands (or just the “BVI” to those who have been there) is a wonderful area to do a BVI yacht charter and especially if you are fortunate enough to do your charter on the 150′ motor yacht ENCORE!

I was invited on a FAM trip (familiarization trip) by the manager of ENCORE and was also able to bring my wife along (not common for these FAM trips so it was a great opportunity for Cathy to experience the “tough” duties I’m expected to perform when reviewing charter yachts for my clients)! There would be one other broker (Rebecca) as well as a photographer (Jim) and a writer for Power and Motoryacht Magazine (Alyssa) and the manager of the yacht (Allison) for a total of 6 “guests” on this gorgeous 12 guest yacht. (ps – there were 10 crew members so needless to say, you do get some excellent service on a yacht like this)!

 

encore main
How about a week in the BVI on a yacht like this!

After arriving at Beef Island Airport on Tortola (officially “Terence B. Lettsome Int’l Airport” code is EIS) in the late afternoon on a Tuesday we are met at the airport by Captain Roy and crew who shuttle us by mini-van a “whopping” quarter of a mile (if that) over to the dock at Trellis Bay. There we board the tender which takes us out to our home for the next 4 days, the 150′ motor yacht ENCORE!

Once we are settled into our cabins (Cathy and I were fortunate enough to get the Master Suite – awesome!) we sample some of Chief Stewardess Cassie’s special cool drinks and chat with the other members of our group before we sit down to dinner.

 

encore-master-cabin
Here’s the Master Cabin (where we stayed) on ENCORE. Are you jealous yet!!

 

Captain Roy and Purser/Interior Manager (and Roy’s wife) Stephanie joined us for a wonderful dinner the first night and during the dinner conversation it was mentioned that since we had a small group that it would be nice to have some different crew members joins us for dinner each evening. That would give us a chance to get to know them better and give the crew the opportunity to experience a yacht charter from the guests perspective. Captain Roy agreed and I really think this turned out to be a great experience for all of us.

It really was great to get a chance to talk with these crew members in a more social rather than work atmosphere. And it was particularly unique to have the Chief Engineer, Eugene, eat with us. You don’t often see the Engineers on these yacht charters as they are always busy making sure all the mechanicals are working as they should. Eugene is Cuban and he had some interesting stories about his arrival in the US!

And Stewardesses Cassie and Anais, who usually are serving the meals, got the chance to experience “the other side of the table” and see what it was like to be the “guests”!

 

 

Getting ready for dinner with Capt. Roy and Chief Stew. Stephanie

Dinner with Captain Roy (blue shirt) and Stephanie (on Roy’s right) in the BVI.

These large yacht charters can be as formal or as casual as you like. The Caribbean is generally quite casual so we ended up eating virtually all of our meals at the dining table on the aft deck (as you see above). However they do have a very nice inside dining area for more formal meals.
The next morning (Wednesday) our charter offically begins! And what is the most important meal of the day? BREAKFAST! Talk about a fabulous way to start your morning! Chef Jean-Paul prepared a wonderful breakfast, add in the sunshine, islands, and warm Caribbean breeze…..is it nap time yet! Ooops! Forgot we still have a full day ahead of us!

 

setting for breakfast on ENCORE

The table is set for our first breakfast in the British Virgin Islands.

 

After our delicious breakfast Captain Roy informs us that we are heading over to Norman Island to do some diving (and snorkeling for the non-divers). There has been some rain prior to our arrival so the water at some of the usual dive areas is a bit cloudy so he thinks The Caves at Norman Island might offer some better water clarity for our dive.

A few of us are either new to diving or have not been diving for some time so Gierdre is going to give a bit of a refresher course on our way over to Norman Island.

 

gierdre-dive-instructor

Our dive instructor, Gierdre giving us our pre-dive instructions.

preparing-for-dive-at-norman-island-the-caves

Check our that turquoise water! Yes it’s even better UNDER the water!

 

 

Once we arrive at Norman Island Captain Roy anchors ENCORE over in The Bight and we take the tender over to the Caves for our dive. Gierdre gets us all geared up and in the water and off we go!

This is a great spot whether you dive or just like to snorkel. The water is only about 30 feet deep and even shallower as you get closer to the caves along the shore.

After the dive it’s back to ENCORE to get refreshed and have lunch. Then a quiet afternoon lounging around and towards evening the “Painkiller Tour” begins on the Willy T.

 

the-willyt-at-norman-island

The Willy T (William Thornton) at The Bight on Norman Island.

 

The Willy T is basically just a floating bar anchored in The Bight at Norman Island. If you are anchored here for the evening it’s almost a requirement that you have to stop by for a cool drink. And we heard they made a mean Painkiller so…………

 

on-the-willy-t

On board the Willy T. Let the “Painkiller Tour” begin! (Unfortunately, as the designated drivers, Captain Roy and deckhand Morgan could not participate in the Painkiller judging)!

 

 

Wow, the Willy T does make a mean Painkiller! I think you really need to watch yourself with these or you may be spending the night at the Willy T and I didn’t see any sleeping accommodations! (But I guess if you get to that point would you really notice)?

Fortunately we were all well-behaved and after a good time aboard the Willy T it was back to ENCORE for another very nice dinner.

 

tim-on-encore-in-bvi

Heading out of The Bight at Norman Island on our way to Jost Van Dyke (stop #2 on the “Painkiller Tour”)!

 

 

The next morning we were off to Jost Van Dyke for an island tour, beaching, and of course to sample a few of the islands beverages (read: Painkillers)!

On our arrival to Jost Van Dyke, Captain Roy had made arrangements for us to take an island tour by 4 wheel drive vehicle (I found out why later)! There are some beautiful views from this island and we saw many nice beaches and harbors. One that Cathy and I particularly liked from previous years of bareboating (drive it yourself yachting) was Little Harbor. It’s a small, well protected harbor with two bar/restaurants: Harris’s Place and Sydney’s Peace and Love. Both are worth stopping into, even if it’s just for a cold drink. But we also enjoyed the food at Harris’s and Cynthia, the owner was a real character! I’ve heard Sydney’s is also good. (But to be honest, the best food you are going to get is on the yacht! I suggest stopping by the restaurants ashore and have a cold drink and maybe an appetizer, then head back to your yacht for dinner. Then maybe have one dinner ashore during your charter at a restaurant recommended by your Captain).

 

harris-and-sydneys-peace-and-love-jost-van-dyke

Chef Harris’s (on the left) and Sydney’s Peace and Love (on the right), two good options for food and drinks on Little Harbor, Jost Van Dyke.

 

 

One of the other stops on the tour was Foxy’s Taboo bar and restaurant. (This one is owned by the same Foxy that has the famous “Foxy’s Tamarind Bar” over on Great Harbor).

 

foxys-taboo-jost-van-dyke

Foxy’s Taboo bar and Restaurant, near Diamond Cay on the East end of Jost Van Dyke

 

 

Foxy’s Taboo is in a very nice, private location and I can vouch for their cheeseburgers. Unfortunately our whole group ordered the same thing so I can’t really comment on any of their other food!

 

cheeseburgers-at-foxys-taboo

Lunch at Foxy’s Taboo. Do you know the Jimmy Buffet song “Cheeseburger in Paradise”? Well, it was NOT written here! But, they do serve a very good cheeseburger!

 

 

After lunch our tour continued up (and I mean UP) into the hills of Jost Van Dyke. THIS is why we were in a 4 wheel drive vehicle! The views were fabulous but I’m not sure all of our group really appreciated the route we had to take to GET up to see those views! Anybody afraid of high places? (Keep your eyes closed)!

 

 

road-island-tour-jost-van-dyke
Looking back at the “road” we just came down on part of our island tour! We got the “full” tour on this route including all of the back roads. (I don’t even think most of the island goats could have made it up and down some of these roads)!

encore-anchored-off-great-harbor-jost-van-dyke
ENCORE anchored off Great Harbor, Jost Van Dyke.

(Foxy’s Tamarind Bar will be on the far left side of the beach in this photo – yes we stopped there on our BVI yacht charter too)!

The two photos above were taken from the same location so you can get an idea of how high up we were and the “road” conditions we endured to get there!

After the “high” island tour we all needed a break so we had our taxi driver drop us off at White Bay for a bit of beaching and some cool drinks. He would pick us up later to take us back to Great Harbor where ENCORE was anchored (and where our island tour began).

 

soggy-dollar-bar-jost-van-dyke

Whew! That was an exciting “back” island tour! Time for a break and a cool drink. Hmmmm….let’s see, I’m at the Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the “Painkiller”, so I guess I’ll have a………..PAINKILLER!

beach-at-white-bay-at-soggy-dollar-bar
Here’s the beach in front of the Soggy Dollar Bar.

There is a reef just offshore from the beach (maybe 50 – 75 feet from the beach) at White Bay so the smaller boats and tenders enter the reef and drop anchor behind it. Then they swim or wade to the beach.

one-love-bar-and-grill-white-bay-jost-van-dyke

Don’t worry, you won’t go thirsty in White Bay! If The Soggy Dollar is too “hopping” for you, just wander down the beach to one of several other spots including One Love, above or…..

White Bay is a great beach to stroll down as you have the gorgeous waters of the BVI at your footsteps and you are never very far from food and drink! Many of the guests on the beach had come via their tenders, you just have to be careful entering the reef which is just offshore. But hey, if you are on a private yacht like ENCORE, that’s not your problem! You don’t have to worry about any of that, all you have to do is take in the Sun, swim in the warm waters and enjoy a cool drink on the beach!

When you are ready to go, you could just radio your crew and they will come pick you up and take you back to your yacht! Yes, life on a private yacht charter is tough……..
gertrudes-great-harbor-jost-van-dyke

 

Gertrude’s Beach Bar and Grill, White Bay, Jost Van Dyke. No we didn’t have Painkillers at ALL of these places! (But if we would have had a bit more time……).

After White Bay and The Soggy Dollar Bar it’s back to Great Harbor via our taxi. We do have a few more “sights” to see in Great Harbor before we board ENCORE for the evening though.

foxys-dock-great-harbor-jost-van-dyke

Hmmm……I wonder what’s at the other end of this dinghy dock?

Anybody that’s ever been to the BVI has heard of Foxy’s. Even if you haven’t been there you have probably heard of it! We checked it out during the day and decided we would come back that evening for drinks.

foxys-tamarind-bar-great-harbor

It’s famous Foxy’s Tamarind Bar! I wonder if they have any painkillers?

Great Harbor does have a few other bar/restaurants and shops other than Foxy’s so worth walking around to check things out during your BVI yacht charter.

golf-course-great-harbor-jost-van-dyke

For those of you who like to golf, here’s the “country club” on Jost Van Dyke! You might want to pack your “sand wedge”! The course might be a bit “rough” but on the bright side, you might actually enjoy taking a dip in the “water hazard” in the background!

When you are in the Caribbean “time” is relative! Leave your “city” schedules back home when you are on vacation down here.

dinner-hours-yost-van-dyke
For those of you who might want to have a dinner ashore, keep in mind the islands are on a “bit” different schedule than you are probably used to!

After cocktails at Foxy’s it’s back to ENCORE for dinner and preparation for our BVI yacht charter cruise over to Virgin Gorda the next morning.

cathys-quiet-time-on-encore
Cathy’s “quiet time” on ENCORE.

If you are an early riser or just need to “get away” for a little “me” time, ENCORE has several nice areas you can “escape” to. Of course at least one stewardess will “track you down” no matter where (or when) you are on deck to make sure you don’t need a drink, snack, etc.! Crew members Cassie, Anais and Stephanie will take good care of you!

After heading out from Great Harbor, Jost Van Dyke just after breakfast, we head over to Virgin Gorda where we drop anchor just off from The Baths. This is a unique area of large bolders with a hiking trail leading from one beach to the next “through” the bolders!

ENCORE off the Baths.
That’s ENCORE anchored off The Baths in Virgin Gorda.

The Baths is a great area to stretch your legs with a short hike, lay on the beach and catch some sun, do a little swimming or snorkle among the bolders. Really a “must see” when on a BVI yacht charter.

baths-virgin-gorda-encore-tender
Crew Morgan and Aaron shuttling the guests and gear to the beach at The Baths. Doesn’t that water look inviting? (Sorry you had to get wet Morgan! I bet Aaron in the tender is thinking “I wish I was the one that “had” to get wet!”. That water is NICE)!

And don’t forget to take your camera with you to The Baths! Lots of photo opportunities here!

photo-of-photo-session-baths-virgin-gorda
Me taking a photo of crew member Morgan taking a photo of Photographer Jim taking a photo of the “Models” on our hike through The Baths! (Talk about a “photo” session)!

the-beach-at-the-baths

After your “strenuous” hike, you can just kick back on the beach to “recuperate”. And if you get a bit warm from the sun, you can always get a cool drink in the shade at the small Poor Man’s bar just behind the person taking this picture!

After The Baths it’s back to ENCORE for lunch! Then the next stop is North Sound, Virgin Gorda. North Sound is home to The Bitter End Yacht Club, Biras Creek Resort and also Leverick Bay, all good places to stop and check out.

bitter-end-yacht-club-virgin-gorda

Welcome to the Bitter End Yacht Club!

The Bitter End Yacht Club is the largest resort in North Sound with a couple of restaurants and bars plus a store, accommodations, and water sports rentals including small sailboats. It’s a nice area to walk around, stop and have a cool drink, take some photos, etc.

At the Bitter End Resort
One of the bars at the Bitter End Yacht Club. (Yes, they serve Painkillers here too)!

beach-at-bitter-end-looking-at-saba-rock

Here’s the freshly “raked” beach at the Bitter End Yacht Club. That is the Saba Rock Bar/Restaurant/Resort in the background.

In the photo above you will see the Saba Rock Resort in the background. This resort takes up the whole small island of Saba Rock. They have a bar/restaurant (and they make a good Painkiller!) plus a few hotel rooms. Be sure to say “Hi” to the rescued Toco Toucans, Paco, Paz and Pepe, that they have on the grounds.

 

beach-at-bitter-end-yacht-club
Here’s another view of the beach at the Bitter End Yacht Club. Doesn’t that look inviting?

hammock-at-bitter-end-virgin-gorda
The Bitter End has a couple bars, restaurants, a store, water sports rentals, etc. and by the time you check them all out and walk from one end of the resort to the other you might need a break. Fortunately they provide a few good “break” spots too!

Just up the cove from The Bitter End is the Biras Creek Resort. Take the tender to their dock and wander the resort. There are some great views of both sides of the island from their patios so take your camera! Also a nice restaurant here.

 

dockmaster-biras-creek-resort
The “dockmaster” at Biras Creek Resort.

“Yes, I accept gratuities. Especially the “tasty” kind!”

view-from-biras-creek-resort
A view from Biras Creek Resort looking back toward the Bitter End (just around the point on the right).

That evening we also tendered over to Leverick Bay to watch the stilt dancers but unfortunately we were chatting so much at dinner that we were running a bit late so missed them! Oh well, since we were there we made the best of it and had a few cool drinks and listened to the live band. Eventually it was time to head back to ENCORE for the night.

ENCORE also had some stand up paddle boards so the next morning we took Morgan and Aaron up on some lessons while we were anchored in North Sound. It was a bit breezy so we all decided “downwind” was the way to go! We were all rookies but Morgan and Aaron had us all up and going in no time! (And yes, it’s more exercise than it looks like)!

morgan-on-paddleboard
Morgan getting one of the boards “warmed up” for us.

The next morning, after our paddleboard expedition, we cruised back over to a cove just North of the airport and dropped anchor for our last night aboard ENCORE. (BooooHooo)!

I would like to give a big “Thanks!” to Captain Roy, Stephanie, and the whole crew of ENCORE for having us aboard and for such a great time!

 

beef-island-airport-tortola
Terrence B Lettsome Airport, Beef Island (Tortola).

Ps – So, after all of our testing on our “Painkiller Tour”, who makes the best “Painkillers” in the BVI? Hmmmmm……….there were a LOT of good ones (maybe a few too many)! But, on the other hand we really didn’t have time to try ALL of the places that served Painkillers. So after much serious consideration it has been determined that …………..I think I need to go BACK for more RESEARCH! I’m sure I can find some volunteer “judges” for the next “Tour”!

Whatever type of BVI Yacht Charter suits your desires. Please refer to our Charter Request Page so that we can begin making your dreams a reality.

Tim Nelson
Yacht Charter Broker
2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis FL 34275 USA
800-346-5355 • 941-966-6017 • Fax: 212-500-0028
email: tim@sevenseascharters.com

Bahamas Yacht Charter

I think everyone should experience at least one Bahamas yacht charter in the Exumas and 97′ HOOTER PATROL IV is an excellent choice! I know because I was fortunate enough to spend 5 days (Wednesday – Monday) on the yacht cruising the Exumas from Nassau to Staniel Cay as part of a 5 yacht “Bahamas Flotilla”!

Seals just love me! At Atlantis Resort

Seals love me! At the Atlantis Resort

Your Bahamas yacht charter can be as relaxing as you like or, like our charter, Captain Adam and crew will keep you busy virtually every minute! We started our charter at Noon on Wednesday at the Atlantis Resort Marina in Nassau which also gives you access to all of the facilities at the Atlantis Resort including the Casino and Water Park!

The Casino wins much more often than I do so I opted for the Water Park. This is great fun for adults and kids as there is something for everyone. You can do the water slides “The Abyss” or the “Leap of Faith” (also known to some people I know as “the scary slide”)! Or just take the “lazy river” around the park in a tube. (It’s not too lazy though as there are some areas of “white water rapids” so it is actually quite a bit of fun and can take up to an hour to complete). Or experience some or all of the other water slides offered.

 

Making a new friend at the Atlantis Resort
Making a new friend at the Atlantis Resort

Or you can just lay on the “beach” around many of the various swimming pools. That evening back at the marina we had a “yacht hop” for cocktails with the 5 other yachts in the Flotilla plus two other charter yachts that were participating in this evenings “hop”. Then off to dinner and (eventually) bed!
The next day (Thursday – after another morning spent at the water park) we left Atlantis Marina and headed down to Shroud Cay where we anchored, had a wonderful dinner and relaxing evening under the stars (and you can see LOTS of stars in the Exumas)!
The next day (Friday), after another filling breakfast, we boarded the smaller tender (a nice 16′ Aqua Scan jet boat – good for getting in close in shallow water) and went ashore to experience the “mangrove creeks” of Shroud Cay. The tide was going out so we hiked up the creek a bit and then swam into the deeper section to ride the outgoing tidal flow back to the beach. Kind of nature’s own version of the Atlantis Lazy River!

Our own "Lazy River" at the Mangrove Creek on Shroud Cay
Going with the flow at the Mangrove Creek on Shroud Cay

Next we boarded jetskis and rode up the creek through the mangroves, very peaceful (yes, even on a jetski)! Of course you can also do this on kayaks. Then it was back to HOOTER PATROL IV for a light lunch (had to keep up our strength you know) and then back to the beach for jetskiing, kayaking, and just plain old lounging in the warm clear water of the Bahamas. And then ending the day with another peaceful evening of cocktails and dinner under the stars

Exploring the Mangrove Creek at Shroud Cay
Exploring the Mangrove Creek by Jetski, Shroud Cay

Oh, sorry. Did I get you wet? Shroud Cay
Oh, did I get you wet? Shroud Cay

Life's a "Beach" isn't it? Shroud Cay
Life’s “tough” on Shroud Cay Beach!

Saturday morning Captain Adam had arranged for he and first mate Trevor to take us on a fishing trip so come 7am we were off in the 37′ Midnight Express tender. (Of course Chef Mark made sure we all had some hot breakfast sandwiches to take along – which I dubbed “Egg McMarkins”. If only McDonalds’ could make a breakfast sandwich this good)! It really did turn out to be a “fishing trip” and not a “catching trip”, although I did catch a small Baracuda, but the weather was great (as usual) so we all had a great time anyway.

HOOTERS CALENDAR, Tender to HOOTER PATROL IV
37′ Midnight Express Tender “HOOTERS CALENDAR”

Regarding this tender, it has triple (yes, that’s 3) 275hp outboard engines! The boat easily cruises at 40 knots so you can really cover some terrain in this baby! It used to be that a “tender” was maybe a 13 – 16′ inflatable that was used almost exclusively to take the guests to and from the yacht and dock. With these new, large center console tenders it at least doubles the area and activities the guests can cover during their charter. (More on that later).

(The tender is called HOOTERS CALENDAR by the way – the name comes from their calendar which is supposed to be the #1 best seller and if you’ve ever been in a Hooters Restaurant I think you will know why)
After returning from our morning outing and some cool drinks served by Stewardess Iris, it was decided that the “Mothership” would head on straight to Staniel Cay. Meanwhile First Mate Trevor would take us all on a “tour” of the islands along the way in the Midnight Express, meeting up with HOOTER PATROL IV at the Staniel Cay Marina. One of the stops along the way was at Compass Cay. They have a very nice but also very small marina plus some cute rental cabins here and a very nice beach on the opposite side of the island. If you are just visiting there is an $8.00 charge per person but it’s well worth it as this is also where you can swim with the Nurse sharks!

Nurse Sharks, Shroud Cay
Swimming with the Nurse sharks at Compass Cay

Yes under the dock in the marina are probably 10 or so 6 foot Nurse sharks! During high tide a small portion of the dock is actually slightly underwater and the nurse sharks will come up and rest on the dock itself! I expect the idea of swimming with sharks is not high on your list of things to do, but you REALLY do need to do it! They are very docile and besides, it makes a great photo opportunity! (And a good story you can tell your friends back home)!

After our island tour and stop at Compass Cay it was on to Staniel to meet up with HOOTER PATROL IV. Staniel Cay is basically the “hub” of activity in this area of the Exumas. In addition to the Staniel Cay Yacht Club which is a very cool “island” bar/restaurant, there are a couple of small (and I mean, really small) grocery stores, another bar that is open only occasionally and a few small restaurants. The island also has a small airport and you can get regular flights to/from Ft. Lauderdale on Watermakers Air in case you want to start or end your charter here. There are several rentals on the island including some nice cottages right on the water at the Staniel Cay Yacht Club. These also offer some small center console runabouts which you can use to explore the local islands. And you will want to explore as there is a lot to do close by.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club
At the Staniel Cay Yacht Club

After an island tour by golfcart (this takes maybe 20 minutes) we find out that our “Flotilla” of 5 yachts is putting on a “beach party” near Fowl Cay. So off we go in the Midnight Express for an afternoon of food, drinks and fun with old friends and new. One of the organizers of the Flotilla had also arranged for us to tour the Fowl Cay Resort. This is a 50 acre resort just a tender ride away from Staniel Cay and within site of the beach we were on for the beach party. They have 6 cottages that range in pricing from about $6,000/week to $17,000/ week so these are quite nice! However for we “yachters” they also have a very nice restaurant.

Chef Mark and Stew Iris from HOOTER PATROL IV
Chef Mark and Stew Iris with the Aqua Scan Jet Tender, on the beach near Fowl Cay

They only have one seating each evening so you definitely need to radio ahead to see if they have any openings for dinner as the guests staying at the resort get priority. However the resort’s manager tells me they usually can seat at least 6 non – guest diners each evening (and sometimes more depending on the time of year). The rate at the time I was there was $100 per person but also includes cocktails starting at 6:30 with dinner around 9pm. When you radio for reservations they will ask at that time if you want beef, chicken, fish or they can also do vegetarian. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the neighborhood!

Fowl Cay Resort, Restaurant is on the knoll on the far left.
Fowl Cay. The restaurant is on the knoll on the far left

 

After the beach party/lunch we stopped at “Thunderball Grotto” to snorkel. It is located just west of Staniel Cay and you can see the island it’s on from the Marina so it’s very close by. It has been featured in several Hollywood films, such as Ron Howard’s ‘Splash’, two James Bond movies, ‘Thunderball’ and ‘Never Say Never Again’ and also in ‘Into the Blue’, which starred Jessica Alba.

At the entrance to the cave you will find lots of fish and the cave itself is not dark as there are several holes in the “ceiling” which allows light in. We happened to be there during an out going tide which is good and bad. It makes it hard to kick against the tide to get into the cave but once you are in it’s fine. But then you can exit out the other side and “ride” the tide around the outside of the small island and snorkel the reef ending up back at the point where you started! Hey, another “lazy river” provided by nature!
After freshening up from our day outings we are off to cockails that evening at the Yacht Club. This is definitely THE place to be on Staniel Cay in the evenings. They even had live music! Then it was off to our assigned “flotilla” yacht for “pre-dinner” cocktails and then a late dinner before retiring back on HOOTER PATROL IV for the evening. We needed our rest because the next day was going to be jam-packed with activities also.

Coming back "home" after a tough day in the Exumas!
Coming back “home” after a tough day!

We start out our Sunday with a delicious (as usual) breakfast prepared by Chef Mark. Then we all took a “break” from vacation to catch up on our emails (the Yacht Club has wireless internet). It was then decided that Captain Adam would take HOOTER PATROL IV back to Nassau and we would follow in the Midnight Express. This is where this tender really comes in handy!

Staniel Cay to Nassau is about a 7 hours trip in HOOTER PATROL IV but in the Midnight Express tender at 40 knots it’s a LOT faster. What this means is that we had time to do lots of “stuff” and still meet up with the “Mothership” prior to it’s arrival back in Nassau. (Note: any of these tender trips were optional, anyone who wanted could have just “chilled” out on HOOTER PATROL IV but it turned out we all wanted to go/see/do everything we could. Other groups may have some who just want to “relax” so don’t worry, they have something for everyone)!
On our return trip in the tender we fed the swimming pigs on Great Major Cay. If you don’t see the pigs when you get to the beach, just yell “Soooooeeeeeeee!” and they come running! (You may want to have “tryouts” before beach arrival so you know who can do the best pig call! Ha)!

Feeding the pigs at Big Major Cay
Feeding the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay

Then we went swimming with the black tip reef sharks at Danger Reef. (Very cool – but I suggest you do the Compass Cay swim with the Nurse sharks first! These reef sharks look just like the “nasty” sharks you see on TV so a bit of mental preparation is recommended)! I had 3 sharks swimming around me so close I could have touched them – but I restrained myself! Plus, to maybe take your mind off the sharks (good luck with that), you will see there are lots of other fish in the area like grouper which to me was somewhat comforting.

Swimming with some of the "friendly" Reef Sharks at Danger Reef
Surrounded by Reef Sharks at Danger Reef, Exumas

I’m thinking with all these tasty fish around those sharks can’t be TOO hungry right? Then after we were all back in the tender First Mate Trevor threw some food scraps into the water so we could see the sharks feeding. What surprised me most was that the Grouper seemed much more vicious when feeding than the sharks! Sheesh, I don’t want to be anywhere near a bunch of feeding grouper!

Reef Shark at Danger Reef
Yup, these are real sharks up close and personal!

Then after swimming with the sharks there is a very nice reef very close by (with no sharks for those of you that prefer a “no shark” experience) that is a great snorkel experience. The coral is very nice and lots of fish. After Danger Reef we had one more stop, Wardwick Wells.

At Wardrick Wells, Home of the Exumas Land And See Park
Wardrick Wells, home office of the Exumas Land and Sea Park

This is where the home office of the Exumas Land and Sea Park is located and it also is a great sheltered anchorage and great snorkel spot. Stop in and say “Hi” to the park rangers, get a photo with the Whale skeleton (the whale died from swallowing a plastic bag – no littering the ocean please), or lounge on the beach. Very nice place to spend a few hours (or a few days)! There were lots of other stops we could have made (snorkel the “drug plane”, etc.) but time was running short and we needed to catch up with HOOTER PATROL IV so off we went.

Snorkeling near Danger Reef - no sharks in this area!
Snorkeling near Danger Reef – no sharks in this area!

I believe top speed for the HOOTERS CALENDAR is somewhere over 50 knots but thankfully Trevor kept it down to “only” 40 knots and we still caught up with HOOTER PATROL IV quite quickly! As usual Chef Mark had a tasty lunch waiting for us and we finished shortly before our arrival back at New Providence Island. However, rather than ending back in Nassau, we were spending the night at a new resort/marina called Albany.

The Albany is an exclusive development that has investors and home owners like golfers Ernie Els and Tiger Woods. The resort entertained us with cocktails and appetizers at one of their open air bars near one of the two gorgeous swimming pools. It is really set up as a private residence community (not really a tourist type resort) but some of those residences can be rented when the owners are not using them. They have a very nice golf course with at least 10 famous golf pros that own homes here (including Tiger Woods and Ernie Els). Most of these pros had just left for the Masters after preparing for the tournament all week at this golf course. They also have a fitness center and spa and big plans for some major further development. It will be interesting to see it in 5 years as if all goes according to plan, it is going to be fabulous. This is a VERY nice place but figure on paying “daily” rates that are close to the “weekly” rates I quoted above for Fowl Cay! And as they say, if you have to ask how much the real estate is you can’t afford it! Ha! After arriving back to the marina, via the resorts provided golf carts, and boarding HOOTER PATROL IV (maybe a bit “too” late from cocktail hour) it’s off to bed so we can get up the next morning to prepare for our flight home.

Captain Adam on HOOTER PATROL IV
Captain Adam Marani of HOOTER PATROL IV

Monday morning arrives and we don’t want to leave! We decide that before we leave the crew has to come to breakfast with us at the restaurant at the Albany resort. (I’m sure Chef Mark is happy to get a break from cooking)! The restaurant is open air and the floors are beach sand! Very nice atmosphere. After a delicious breakfast it’s off to the airport (and we find that the Bahamas has a brand new terminal which is great). And for US residents it’s a very easy trip home as airport experiences go nowadays! You actually pass through US Customs in the new Bahamas terminal before you board your flight out so you don’t have the long lines on entry when you arrive back to the US! It’s a great idea and we breezed through with no problems. The US Customs officer actually even had time for a short chat! And he had a smile on his face! Of course who wouldn’t, he was living in the Bahamas and Uncle Sam is paying for it! Good “gig” if you can get it!
So, I think the US Customs Official would agree, it really is “Better in the Bahamas”! And especially if you are on a yacht like HOOTER PATROL IV!

Whatever type of Bahamas Yacht Charter suits your desires. Please refer to our Contact Page so that we can begin making your dreams a reality.

 

Tim Nelson
Yacht Charter Broker
2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis FL 34275 USA
800-346-5355 • 941-966-6017 • Fax: 212-500-0028
email: tim@sevenseascharters.com

Mediterranean Yacht Charter

Many cruising aficionados consider a Mediterranean Yacht Charter a favorite experience each year. Each summer, the Western Mediterranean lures some of the world’s largest, most prestigious, and glamorous yachts to the waters between C’te d’Azur in France to the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The Eastern Mediterranean has also become a popular choice Charter destination in recent years. Glorious Motor and Sailing Yachts are available in Croatia, Greece, and Turkey. Please see Itineraries.

Mediterranean Yacht Charter Season

Visit Monaco Harbour on your Mediterranean Yacht Charter Vacation

May 

Each May, the Mediterranean Yacht Charter season “officially” begins with the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix. During these events, competition soars for marina berths. Charter Yachts become home to star-studded galas and events brimming with champagne. Many people book a vacation for several weeks that include these galas. Imagine the possibility of mix and mingling with  Hollywood Royalty, and then continuing in the privacy in their own Mediterranean Yacht Charter to picturesque port towns such as Villefranche, Monaco, and Portofino.

Mediterranean Luxury Yacht Charter

July and August

July and August are considered the most popular months for a Mediterranean yacht charter. Itineraries can include the coastal hot-spots as well as the culturally rich islands of Corsica, Sardinia, and Sicily. In summer, waters have warmed up to the perfect swimming temperature, and beaches beckon to the “desired to be sun kissed” population. Each day you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming,  seaside gourmet   lunches accompanied with fine local wines. In the evening, imagine a cruise to the volcano Stromboli, where the colorful eruptions ablaze like nature’s fireworks. During these popular months, Charter Yachts typically have more availability in the Eastern Mediterranean.

September through early October

September and October offer a grand selection of yachts, as it marks the end of the Mediterranean Yacht Charter season. The Saronic Gulf islands just off the coast of Athens have long been a favorite Charter destination in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Dodecanese chain of Greek islands is also popular and is within easy cruising distance of southwestern Turkey, boasting beautifully preserved ruins of ancient cultures. Croatia offers a sparkling combination of natural islands, historic sites and a warm welcoming people. Some sites are within a day ‘s cruise of Venice, depending on the speed of the Charter Yacht you select.

Mediterranean Luxury Yacht Charter Sailing Map

It is easy to understand that the diversity and variety, as experienced in the natural, cultural, historical and culinary experiences available  in the Mediterranean makes this region the number one choice for Mega Yacht Chartering and can be explored again and again without having the same itinerary or experience twice.

Our experienced and knowledgeable Yacht Charter Vacation Consultants look forward to helping you create and implement the Mediterranean Yacht Charter of your choice. To make your dreams a reality, please complete a yacht charter request.

Greece Yacht Charters

Greece yacht charters are unlike any other charter in the Mediterranean. On the French and Italian Riviera the idea is to see and be seen. While, in Turkey and Croatia the idea is to get away from it all. This Greece vacation offers the chance to combine luxury and seclusion with a cruise through the history of humanity itself.

Greece Cruising Grounds

Luxury Greece Yacht Charters Sailing MapMany boats available Greece yacht charters are based in Athens. This makes one of the world’s oldest cities the starting point and easily accessible from the international airport.  Thousands of years of history extend from Athens to the nearby cruising grounds within the Argosaronic Gulf, the Peloponnese archipelago, and the Cyclades chain. With individual islands offering countless combinations of ancient ruins and sandy beaches, you could spend a week or a month exploring these regions.

 

Argosaronic GulfGreece Yacht Charters visit churches

In the Argosaronic Gulf, your charter yacht can dock at Hydra. This harbor is too small for cruise ships to even consider entering. Shops, restaurants and homes climb up the surrounding mountainsides the same way they have for generations, with mules and donkeys the only form of transportation. Watch the local ladies craft lace by hand. The local artists paint the same scenes upon which their ancestors gazed. Get lost in winding stone alleyways. Meander back to the waterfront for a gourmet dinner aboard your chartered yacht.

Peloponnese region

Explore sites such as Kythira if you opt for the Peloponnese region. Kythira’s geographic location has made it a favorite among sea merchants for centuries. The architecture and cultural influences at Kythira are not only Greek, but also Venetian, Ottoman, and British,  offering the chance to explore not only modern-day life, but also the history of life as it evolved over time.


The CBook O Mega for Your Greece Yacht Charterycladese Archipelago 

Offering yet another variation on a charter in Greece is The Cycladese archipelago with islands such as Santorini that let you literally drink in the culture. Here the indigenous Assyrtiko grape is used to make Vinsanto, a dessert wine. This wine is sometimes barrel-aged for as long as 25 years and that has gained worldwide acclaim for its overtones of citrus, fig, and honey.

Greece Yacht Charters

All Greece itineraries are accessible by motor yacht and sailing yacht. Each summer international caliber yachts are available in Greece making some of the world’s largest and also, most luxurious charter yachts are among your options. Many yachts available for Greece charters even come with a chef who specializes in the local cuisine. Make your experience on the yacht as personalized as your experience in the Greek isles.