Crewed Catamaran Charters

    
While a fire halted production at the shipyard of one of the most prolific builders of luxury catamarans, the company's President says it's business as usual just 5 days later.

After a fire in one of the production halls at the Sunreef Yachts shipyard in Poland on January 19, the catamaran manufacturer has already started rebuilding lost units. Some yachts under construction were destroyed, but the key moulds were saved and the shipyard has already begun adapting another production hall and moved the moulds to the new site.

Production was recommenced on January 23rd, and Francis Lapp, President of Sunreef Yachts, is, "...confident any delays in delivery due to the fire will not exceed 3 months."

Interest in crewed catamaran charters has increased dramatically in the past 5 years, thanks in part to the roominess and stability of these multi-hull vessels, as compared to their monohull counterparts. 

Sunreef Yachts is a leading designer and builder of luxury sailing and power catamarans in the 60 to 80 foot range. The company is known for its commitment to building yachts with luxurious accommodations, expansive living spaces, and  innovative designs.

Currently in service as Caribbean yacht charter vessels are Sunreef 62 sailing catamaran CATSY, Sunreef 70 power catamaran DAMRAK II, and Sunreef 70 sail catamaran SEAZEN II.

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Enjoy the comfort and space of a wide-body catamaran for your next Spring or Easter yacht rental.  Contact the SailAway catamaran specialists at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for list of available cats in the Caribbean.

From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, catamarans built by Sunreef Yachts are dominating the charter industry.  Vessels such as Sunreef 70 sail catamaran BLUE GURU and Sunreef 70 power catamaran DAMRAK II are redefining luxury at sea.

Now, word comes of a new entry into the marketplace by Sunreef, a Sunreef 60 power catamaran conceived in response to the growing demand for compact yet highly impressive multihull motoryachts. This yacht will have all the features of the popular 70 Sunreef Power, except its 27.8 foot (8.5 meter) beam makes it more convenient for crowded marinas, especially in the Mediterranean.

The first unit of the 60 Sunreef Power has been commissioned by a European owner, and will feature two double cabins in the forward section, two double cabins in the starboard hull, and one double, one bunk-bed cabin in the port hull. All cabins will have private bathrooms and plenty of storage space.  

Mediterranean yacht charter guests will find the interior of the main deck will feature the galley and a dining area, while a mezzanine floor located in the midship will feature the internal helm station and lounge, providing access to the forward guest cabins and the flybridge.

A spacious sun deck, a trademark on Sunreef models, comprises an external helm station, wet bar, dining area and a roomy sun pad, ideal for outdoor lounging in the sun.  Charter models will have an option to include a Jacuzzi on the flybridge.

The interior design is both modern and minimalist, with wenge and oak wood contrasts, and finished with cream and white upholstery and brushed stainless steel details.

The Sunreef 60 mould (mold USA) is already completed and the first unit is due for launch in late May 2012.

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When it comes to luxury sailing charter vacations, why rock the boat?  Charter a wide and stable catamaran for your next island holiday.  Contact the SailAway catamaran experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for more details and seasonal specials and discounts.

The biggest highlight of snorkeling during a Caribbean yacht charter is usually swimming among schools of fish, or seeing sea turtles and sting rays from afar. However, one charter yacht hopes to offer visitors the chance to frolic with a much larger marine animal.

Richard Branson's yacht, the sail catamaran NECKER BELLE, is offering two humpback whale watching charters this spring in the Silver Bank, a region in the Atlantic midway between Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

From January to March, humpback whales mate and calve in the Silver Bank, before migrating to colder waters.  According to Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, "you can slip into the water and snorkel with the calves as their mothers watch from a safe distance below."

Two weeklong expeditions are scheduled on the 105' catamaran NECKER BELLE, owned by adventurer and business tycoon Sir Richard Branson.  Charterers may choose either 16 - 23 February or 8 - 15 March, 2012.  

Launched in 2003 and rebuilt in 2009 at Azzura Yachts, Australia, the sail yacht NECKER BELLE was a finalist in the World Superyacht Awards 2010 in the "Best Refitted Yacht" Category.  The yacht received a Judges' Special Commendation.

Four guest cabins provide accommodation for 8 guests.  The master cabin offers a queen bed. Two VIP staterooms can convert from double to twin berths. The fourth cabin offers a double bed.  All staterooms offer ensuite bathrooms.  An additional 2 guests can be accommodated in the saloon - the sofa converts to a double bed. For the adventurous the two aft deck sun pads can be transformed into outdoor berths (removable tent-style structures protect guests from the elements) - great for those wishing to sleep under the stars! A shower is available in the day head for those using the outdoor berths or saloon.

The price per week is $130,000 and includes the yacht, professional crew, and the guidance of whale expert Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures.   Running expenses such as food, bar, and fuel are extra.    

When whales are sighted, charterers will have the opportunity to leave the yacht NECKER BELLE on an inflatable raft, led by naturalist guide Tom CONLIN, to get close to the whales.  There are a few situations in which snorkeling is not possible, like when two males are fighting for territory or a few males are trying to impress a female whale. But the calves are very curious and non-aggressive, and snorkelors are taught to approach them using slow, gentle movements.

“Being in the water and seeing a whale is a life-changing experience," says Sheeder.  "You’ll never forget it."

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For reservation information to swim with whales in the Caribbean, contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

Chef Renee Kappetein, aboard sail catamaran WORLD'S END, bested over a dozen talented luxury yacht charter chefs in the 50th annual Antigua Charter Yacht Show culinary competition.

Renee, the live-aboard chef on the Fountaine Pajot Galathea 65 catamaran took first prize
in the division for yachts under 100 feet.  Second place was awarded to Adrian Martinon aboard catamaran LADY ALLIAURA. 

Third place honors went to chef Caro Uy onboard Sunreef 70 catamaran MUSE.  Readers might remember Caro from her profile in September outlining her passion for cooking and her love of travel.

Other winners included second place to Heather Kaniuk aboard motor yacht NUMPTIA in the superyacht division for boats 160 feet and larger;  and chef Melinda Heinze onboard the world's largest luxury sailing catamaran HEMISPHERE in the 100 to 159-foot category.

Kappetein's victory earned him a profile story in an upcoming edition of Showboats International magazine, a silver-framed certificate, a magnum of Piper champagne, a Liat airline ticket to anywhere in the Caribbean, a Williams-Sonoma gift certificate, and a stay at the 5-star Antigua Yacht Club Marina Resort.

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Come spend a week with family and friends aboard the Fountaine Pajot 65 catamaran WORLD'S END.  Your crew will escort you to the most beautiful anchorages in the Caribbean.  Discover magnificent islands, nature and warm and friendly new cultures. The itinerary, activities and the menu will be based on your preferences, to guarantee you and your guests a unique experience to cherish for a lifetime. 

Contact the SailAway Yacht Charter destination team today to book your luxury yacht charter vacation.

With the global economy in disarray, planning an affordable family vacation is a real challenge.  Fortunately, two yachts have just made sail boat charters a great option for a winter or spring break adventure. 

Sail yacht BLUE PASSION and sail catamaran NEXUS have announced special family charter rates.  Subject to certain age restrictions, kids can travel FREE this winter and spring on either of these two Caribbean yacht charter vessels.

S/Y BLUE PASSION:

The 58-foot sail yacht BLUE PASSION was built in 2010.  She features 4 double cabins with an option for one aft cabin to convert to a twin cabin. All cabins are ensuite with separate showers and electric toilets.  Her saloon is incredibly spacious and able to seat 12 people comfortably. On deck she offers a double sized sunbathing mattress to relax on. In her huge cockpit 12 people can sit around and enjoy her sailing performance.

On her stern you will find a spacious aft deck perfect for landing fish, preparing to go diving and access for swimming.

All inclusive rates start from $15,500 per week for 2 guests to $17,000 per week for 8 passengers with children 5 and under free through April 30, 2012.

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S/Y NEXUS:


Launched in 2009, sail catamaran NEXUS features two king and one queen cabins. The king cabins can convert to twins, and one has an additional single berth. All offer ensuite bathrooms.  The very spacious saloon is ideal for indoor relaxation and entertainment.

The exterior cockpit features drop-down blinds for both privacy and protection for outdoor dining and lounging in all weather conditions.

All inclusive rates start from $15,000 per week for 2 guests to $19,250 per week for 8 passengers.  Children 10 and under are FREE through April 30, 2012.

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Come explore St Thomas and the U.S and British Virgin islands.  Contact the SailAway charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for a list of  yachts offering discounts and specials.

Looking forward to a strong Mediterranean yacht charter season, the 30 meter sail yacht NOSTROMO cruises into 2012 with highly-competitive, reduced rental rates.

Beginning with the upcoming summer high season (July and August), rates have been slashed by 23% - from €45,000 per week to an attractive €35,000 per week. Rates are plus expenses.



Launched in 2009, the sleek, modern sloop was designed by Dubois Yachts and built by British superyacht builder Pendennis.  Since her arrival on the charter scene, Dubois sail yacht NOSTROMO quickly became a popular sailing yacht in France and Italy before crossing the Atlantic for service as a Caribbean yacht charter vessel. 

Pendennis yacht NOSTROMO boasts a beautiful interior, designed by Redman Whitely Dixon.  There are four cabins that can be converted to offer 3 modern double cabins and 1 single cabin with a bath.

Available in the Eastern Mediterranean, her experienced crew is keen to charter.  With attractive new rates, expect prime summer dates to be booked quickly. 

Similar yachts available this summer in the Eastern Mediterranean include  the 43 meter sail yacht CLEAR EYES, 38 meter gullet yacht ESMA SULTAN, 34 meter sail yacht ANNAGINE, and the 32 meter crewed catamaran charters superstar sail yacht IPHARRA.

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For further information contact the SailAway Mediterranean destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

On the heels of a glowing post-charter review  by recent guests, sailing yacht catamaran DREAMING ON has announced a Thanksgiving crewed catamaran charters special.

The recipient of many favorable cruise-in-review client letters, crewmembers Iza and Geoff are asking, "Why have turkey at home when you can have LOBSTER in paradise for Thanksgiving?"

Iza and Geoff and their 47’ Leopard catamaran DREAMING ON, awarded runner up at last week's BVI Boat Show as "Best Catamaran under 50 feet," are offering two specials for the Thanksgiving holidays:

●  Any 3 or 4 night charter with no surcharge

OR

● 7 nights for the price of 6

~ Guests may opt for Lobster on Thanksgiving or traditional turkey ~

Launched in 2003 and immaculately maintained, crewed catamaran sailing yacht DREAMING ON  is one of the most popular vessels offering crewed charters.  This Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel offers accommodations for 6 guests in 3 cabins, each with ensuite bathrooms.

The yacht's watertoy inventory includes towable toys such as a wakeboard, kneeboard, and a ski-tube, along with fishing and snorkel gear.

Doing her part for the yachting industry's ongoing GREEN initiative, the catamaran is equipped with wind scoops to limit the need for air-conditioning.  Solar panels have also been installed to provide clean electricity. The crew also purchases earth-friendly paper products, biodegradable cleaning products, and local organic produce when available.

When not on charter, Geoff and Iza are often seen helping with reef and beach clean-up projects.

Available for Caribbean yacht charters, the yacht is based in the British Virgin Islands. Her published rate is $11,000 per week for 2 guests, $12,250 per week for 4 guests, and $13,250 per week for 6 passengers. Rates are inclusive of meals and the ship's bar.

Similar sailing catamaran yachts available in the Caribbean include the 62'
catamaran sail yacht AVALON ($26,000 per week, all inclusive), the 56' catamaran sail yacht BACCHUS (€ 20,000 per week, all inclusive), and the 65' sail catamaran WORLD'S END (€23,400 per week, plus expenses).

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To arrange a last-minute holiday yachting vacation, contact the SailAway destination professionals at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

The crew of a popular Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel has come up with a plan to be greener and save their customers money.

Recognizing many charter clients end up eating a meal or two ashore during a typical week-long yachting vacation,  sail catamaran SILVER MOON has announced a half board food option.

While a typical all-inclusive charter features 3 meals a day, the half board option includes all breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, along with beverages, the standard ship's bar, and snacks.  All other meals are taken ashore at the guest's expense.

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway, explains the benefits of a half board option: "Part of the attraction of a yachting vacation is the chance to indulge in local customs and foods.  Sometimes, fresh food on the yachts goes to waste as the clients tend to eat ashore two or three times a week in the various ports of call.   The half board option cuts down on waste, preparation materials and cleanup," explains Sheeder.

Clients can save money, too, as the overall cost of the boating vacation can be reduced to reflect the fewer meals and food served onboard.

Here's the price breakdown on S/Y SILVER MOON:

Passengers        Half-Board   All-Inclusive
2                        $  8,000       $  8,600 
3                            8,560           9,200 
4                            9,115           9,800 
5                            9,775         10,500 
6                           10,325        11,100 
 


The sailing yacht SILVER MOON is a 44'  catamaran launched in 2002.  She offers 3 guest cabins, each with a queen berth and private bathroom. The yacht is equipped with wind scoops to limit the need for air conditioning.  The crew also purchases earth-friendly paper products, biodegradable cleaning products, and local organic produce when available. 

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Other catamarans available in the Caribbean this winter include the world's largest catamaran, the 145'  sail yacht HEMISPHERE, the 75' sail catamaran LADY ALLIAURA, and the 65' sail catamaran WORLD'S END.  For more information, contact the SailAway catamaran sailing charter experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Let's face it - we live in a society obsessed with all things new.  Our hottest celebrities are the young greenhorns with the fresh faces, and shows like the X-Factor scour the land for the next new singing sensation.  Trendy restaurants and clubs come and go, sometimes in a matter of weeks, and who would rent a car from Hertz or Avis built more than 1 year ago?

The same pressure to look fresh and new consumes the luxury sailing charter market, but with one twist - older yachts can undergo wildly-expensive makeovers and resurface looking brand new!

How do they get away with it?   The simple answer is: classic, repetitive design.

Except for a few curved windows here and there, the basic styling of a sailing yacht never changes.  Driven by the laws of physics and what shape is best to propel a wind-powered sail boat through the water, the basic, classic shape of sailing yachts has changed little over the years. 

Can you tell which of these yachts is only one year old and which is nearly 20? 

 

The yacht on the right, sail yacht SEA QUELL was launched in 1992.

With continual maintenance and owners willing to spend thousands of dollars for modern interior upgrades, yachts like SEA QUELL can remain active and competitive in the rental market with newer-model Caribbean yacht charter vessels.

This summer (2011) SEA QUELL underwent a major makeover, called a "refit" in yachting terms. It was her second major refit in three years!

Here's a list of the upgrades completed this summer onboard SEA QUELL:

●  New Teak Decks
●  New Navigational Equipment
●  New Winches  
●  New Sails
●  New Interior upholstery and soft furnishings


New custom-built Jacuzzi hot tub ondeck
New Satellite radio and internet/communications equipment

●  Oh...one more makeover item - a New Crew!!! 


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Sea Quell joins a growing list of sailboats available this winter and spring in the Caribbean including:

  59' sail yacht ON LIBERTY (€11,000 per week, plus expenses)

   67'  sail yacht MORE MAGIC ($18,000 per week, plus expenses)

  75'  sail catamaran LADY ALLIAURA ($45,000 per week, all inclusive)

To plan your own luxury yacht charter vacation, contact the professionals at SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html . We offer the best price guarantee!

With the demand for luxury sailing charter catamarans on the rise, the team at Lagoon recently introduced the all-new 2012 Lagoon 620 catamaran at the Cannes Boat Show.  Designed by the architects Van Peteghem and Lauriot Prévost (VPLP), the Lagoon 620 is an innovative solution to the needs of today's discerning Caribbean yacht charter client.  The  yacht seamlessly blends strength, comfort, and performance in a charter-friendly cabin layout .

The 2012 version of the Lagoon 620, features luxurious and comfortable interiors by Nauta.  In the dining room, the settees have been redesigned, as well as the ceiling, enabling more indirect lighting.  On the starboard side, the master cabin has also been modified, with a washroom now placed aft on either side of the cockpit access stairs.  This modification creates more storage space in the bedroom fro the charterer's luggage.  The forward starboard cabin, can now be called a true V.I.P. suite, with additional volume created by the repositioning of the master cabin's washroom.

The Lagoon 620 catamaran will be built in 4, 5 and 6 cabin versions, all featuring Nauta interior layout packages and incorporating wood finish, upholstery, inner liners, and more…

Exceptional living space, both above and below deck will continue to define Lagoon catamarans for years to come as the sophisticated choice for multi hull yacht vacations.

Catamaran multihull sailboats are also available for bareboat vacations (yachts without crew).  SailAway offers bareboat charter, also.

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Several newer-model Lagoon catamarans are already in service and available for hire, including the Lagoon 560 sail catamaran BACCHUS and the Lagoon 450 sail catamaran OKEANOS.  Contact the SailAway charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Joining a growing list of luxury yacht charter vessels migrating to the Orient for the winter season, the 42 meter performance sailing catamaran DOUCE FRANCE will be available is Southeast Asia this winter.  Destinations will include Malaysia, Myanmar, the Andaman Islands, and most notably Phuket Island in Thailand - the "pit stop" on this week's installment of the reality TV show, The Amazing Race.

Viewers of this week's installment (episode 4) of the hit CBS

After struggling on the rock climb, the teams raced by boat back to a tiny fishing village on Phuket.  The frequent cutaway shots showing the nearby beaches were breathtaking. 

Click on the photo of the snowboarders to watch the full video (episode 4):   

Swaying palms, coral reefs, stunning rock pinnacles, shimmering emerald-colored seas, and charming island villages - these are just some of the attractions that await luxury yacht charter guests onboard sail yacht DOUCE FRANCE.  Captain Pascal and his professional crew have cruised these waters for many seasons and look forward to welcoming guests onboard to explore these stunning locations. 

The superyacht features accommodations for 12 guests in 6 identical cabins.  All are convertible and can display either a queen bed or two twin beds.   For active travelers, there is a great selection of aquasport toys including eight sets of SCUBA diving equipment. 

A list of other toys features:

21' Zeppelin semi-rigid tender
2 Laser Sailing Dinghies
Windsurfers
4 Sea Kayaks
Waterskis (adult, slalom, and skis for children & for acrobatics)
Wakeboard
Surfboard
Scurfboard
2 Donuts (single and double)
1 Flying Manta
Snorkeling equipment
Fishing equipment
BBQ

Rates begin at 90,000 EUROS per week plus all expenses.

Come and participate in your own amazing race onboard Douce France!

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For more information contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Last week, we took a look at several yachts offering value-oriented Virgin Islands yacht charters for the Thanksgiving holidays.   Now comes word from the crew of sail yacht catamaran BREANKER that they are also offering a special Thanksgiving charter - one with a unique twist.

Captain Kristian Søndergård and Chef/First Mate Marianne Rasmussen are Danish citizens with over 25 years of sailing experience.  Their plan for a Thanksgiving charter is to prepare a traditional American-style turkey but serve authentic Danish side dishes for a bicultural holiday feast.

Marianne recently contacted us with the basic menu details.  She said, "We will serve Hassel baked potatoes with roasted sesame seeds, pickled cucumber salad, beet salad with walnuts, and warm sweet and sour red cabbage.  These are all traditional Danish specialties.   For dessert, we will serve Danish almond and rice pudding. It's made with
chopped almonds and one single whole almond in the bowl.   The one who gets the almond wins a prize.  This is a common dessert and game played in Denmark."

To further "sweeten" the deal, Kristian and Marianne are offering a 10% price reduction off the regular charter rates for any full-week charter over the Thanksgiving holiday.  Sail catamaran BREANKER is priced at $14,500 per week for 2 to 4 passengers, $14,700 per week for 5 passengers, $14,900 per week for 6 passengers, $16,500 per week for 7 passengers, and finally, $17,500 per week for 8 guests. Charterers can take 10% off these rates.   Price includes the yacht, crew, and all meals and ship's bar and all local taxes. 

SCUBA is included in the price and offered for up to 6 passengers (must be certified divers).  Gear is available for rent for $150 per week per diver.

The sailing catamaran BREANKER is 55'  in length and features 4 queen cabins, each with ensuite bathroom. Onboard watertoys include a dinghy with 40 horsepower, water skis for children and adults, kneeboard, tube, and wakeboard, two kayaks, and snorkel gear.

SailAway aboard catamaran Breanker for the Thanksgiving holiday of a lifetime!

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Treat your family to a unique, sunny-weather yachting vacation this winter.  Contact our destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today for more special offers. 

Often overlooked as people plan year-end Caribbean yacht charter vacations,  an island escape for the Thanksgiving holidays is a great way to enjoy great weather and uncrowded anchorages.

Officially the winter charter season kicks off in December, as crews return from their own vacations, and the yachts re-emerge from the shipyards after their annual summer maintenance.  Almost a secret, few charterers realize that 80% of the Caribbean fleet is already in place and ready to go by Thanksgiving!

Let's look at a handful of Caribbean-based yachts available in late November:

NAEJ - leading the value parade is sail catamaran NAEJ, a 49' yacht with room for 7 guests.  Built by Alliaura Marina in 2006, her all-inclusive weekly rate of $13,500 per week equates to just $275 per person per night.

SORANA - the 68' motor yacht SORANA was built in 2006 and features accommodations for 6 guests.  Her homeport is Saint Martin in the French West Indies, just a short cruise from St Barts, a favorite winter enclave for celebrities.   Weekly rate is $20,000 plus all running expenses, such as food, bar and dockage.

MOTU - the 61' Privilège 615 catamaran MOTU was built in 2006 and features 4 double cabins for 8 passengers.  She returns from a summer of Bahama yacht charters in time to take a Thanksgiving booking from her winter base in Pointe-à-Pitre on the island of Guadeloupe.  Weekly rate is $23,000 - ALL-INCLUSIVE. 

MAEVIE - built in 2009 by CNB Bordeaux, sail catamaran MAEVIE is one of the stars in the crewed catamaran charters market.  The Lagoon 620  catamaran offers accommodations for 6 guests in 3 double cabins. Her weekly rate is $23,500 including all meals, and she is available in the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, and over fifty other smaller islands and cays).

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This winter, spend your holiday vacation onboard a private yacht with your family and friends.   For a list of yachts offering special holiday rates, contact our SailAway destination experts at www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Here's the deal:  Pay just €6,000 per week for crewed catamaran charters in Greece on the 47 foot sail catamaran NEMO for select dates in September.

Here's the story:  The owner of Nautitech 47 catamaran NEMO is anxious to fill the remaining available charter dates on his booking calendar, to close out the summer Mediterranean yacht charter season.   As an incentive to potential customers, he is offering his yacht at a discounted rate of €6,000 per week -- a 54% savings off the regular, published rate, which is €13,000
 


Launched in 2009, this twin-hulled yacht is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Four queen-berth cabins offer roomy, private accommodations for 8 passengers. Each cabin has its own ensuite bathroom, for total privacy from the crew and other guests. For active travelers, the yacht carries watertoys such as snorkel gear and two sea kayaks.
 
Available dates are:

17 to 24 September
and
24 September to 1 October.

There are two itineraries available for Greece yacht charters onboard Nemo:

- The Cyclades islands (starting and ending in Athens),
or
- The Ionian islands (starting and ending in Lefkas).
 
The offer includes the yacht with skipper and hostess, all bed linens and towels, and use of the onboard watertoys.
 
Items not included are food and beverage provisioning, fuel, port fees, and any special requests.

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Don't delay!  Take advantage of the deepest seasonal discount offered by any crewed catamaran this summer.  Book now at http://www.1800sailaway.com/inquiry.php?y=nemo

Opa!