Sail Boat Charters

If reports are to be believed, there's trouble in Paradis for Captain Jack Sparrow.     

People Magazine is reporting Hollywood A-list star Johnny Depp and his inamorata of 14 years, singer Vanessa Paradis are calling it quits.  According the the mag's cover story, Depp, 48, and the Chanel model, 39, have not appeared together at a public event for more than a year.

To the movie-going public, Depp is best known for his role as Captain Jack Sparrow, the central protagonist of the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise.  In the yachting industry, the actor is more familiar as the celebrity owner of a mega yacht charter vessel often seen cruising the pristine waters of the Bahamas.

This week's office water-cooler question: will the split lead Depp to rename his Bahama yacht charters motor yacht, VaJoLiRoJa?

The boat’s clever name comes from combining the first few letters of each family member’s name, partner Vanessa Paradis, Johnny, and their kids, Lily-Rose and Jack. 

If Johnny drops Vanessa, can we assume the multi-syllabic boat name will shed its current first syllable - leaving us with JoLiRoJa?  We kind of like that - if you say it fast enough it sounds like, "Jolly Roger"  — a perfect name for this 156 foot yacht of distinctive character.

But wait, what if its Vanessa forcing Johnny to, "Walk the plank?"  If she keeps custody of the yacht, the new name could be VaLiRoJa.   Has a nice sound to it - kinda rolls off the tongue...

Perhaps the best name for the yacht is RANSOM, as in Depp's reported $300 gross profit sharing booty from Disney's Pirates movie franchise.  

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View our favorite celebrity-owned mega yacht charter vessels, then contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to plan your own adventure at sea.

Christened in September 2011, the proud owner and entire charter market eagerly await the arrival of the spectacular new 2012 motor yacht VAVA II from  Pendennis Plus (formerly Devonport Yachts).  At 96 meters in length, motor yacht VAVA II is one of the largest yachts ever built in the United Kingdom.

The former Devonport Project-55 now yacht VAVA II features a Redman Whitely Dixon exterior, with interiors by renowned designer Remi Tessier.

Sea trials are nearly completed and the yacht will soon join the global charter market.  The impressive superyacht is built to SOLAS-36 passenger ship regulations and will set a new standard in the charter market for 2012 and beyond.

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Other  large-capacity yachts available for hire include 36-passenger motor yacht CHRISTINA O,  40-passenger motor yacht LAUREN L, and the 26-passenger motor yacht SHERAKHAN.  For more information, contact the SailAway large boat specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Recent reports in the Indian press seem to indicate a new yachting culture has hit Indian shores.  Globe-trotting Indians are starting to flaunt express cruisers and speedboats as new symbols of wealth, some event turning to renting large yachts for family vacations.

According to Malav Shroff of Mumbai-based Mahindra Ocean Group, "After you have luxury cars, upmarket living spaces, high-end accessories and farm houses, where would you spend your money? Yachts are becoming elements of aspiration for many."   

Anju Dutta, a sales broker for Marine Solutions says sports cruisers are hot picks. "We have sold 45 Sea Ray sports boats and cruisers in the last year...in places like Goa, Cochin and Kolkata," she says. Marine Solutions also gets demand for premium Italian models like the Ferretti 570 motor yacht. More commonly seen in the Mediterranean yacht charter market, such as the Ferretti motor yacht NUMBER OF COWES, interest in both buying and chartering mid-range Ferretti models in India is on the rise.

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters has been monitoring the increased demand for yachts in India.  "Mumbai is the country's yacht capital, says Sheeder. "The number of motoryachts in the city has increased form 100 to over 200 in the past three years. The city has over 700km of waterfront exposure and the Maharashtra government has plans to develop multiple marinas.  This is truly an emerging yachting market."  

While many Indian-owned yachts are used exclusively by the owners, others are now available for charter both in India and in ports around the world.  Vijay Mallya owns the 95-meter motor yacht INDIAN EMPRESS which Sheeder and her company offer for hire at a weekly rate of €600,000 plus expenses. 

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Rent Private Yacht - Contact SailAway at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today to join in the fun, and discover the joys of luxury yacht charter vacations.

Anyone who follows our daily nautical blogs knows we love two things  - the world's largest yachts...and gadgets (especially gadgets that can be utilized and enjoyed during a luxury yacht charter).

With the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show underway in Las Vegas, it's time to pick our favorite new gadgets for 2012.  Here are our top three new gadgets of CES 2012:

GRIFFIN TWENTY
Megayachts like Feadship yacht charter vessel LADY BRITT and the themed James Bond boat Benetti motor yacht DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER feature iPod docking stations integrated into a ship-wide audio system.   For yachts without a centralized audio system, the Griffin Twenty should prove to be a popular addition to onboard entertainment options. 

The Griffin Twenty streaming audio device turns any Apple AirPort Express into a full stereo system.

The device has a simple, elegant design, just a plug for the AirPort Express and a large dial for volume. As its name implies, the Twenty has an internal 20-watt amp and outputs for left and right stereo speakers, plus a kickin' subwoofer. The concept is simple - the dial controls the volume, while the rest of the interface is taken care of through your iPhone, iPad or computer.

ROKU STREAMING STICK
Many Caribbean yacht charter vessels offer satellite TV as well as WiFi while dockside.  What's often missing is the charter guests favorite online content. 

Using the new HDMI MHL standard, the Roku Streaming Stick plugs into a port on newer TVs. The stick instantly gives any compatible set access to all of Roku's online content, from providers such as MLB, Netflix, and Pandora. The stick requires no dedicated power, features built-in WiFi, and is set to  launch in 2012 for under $100.

GO PRO Wi-Fi BACPAC
Whether enjoying a bareboat charter or a vacation on a fully-crewed yacht, waterproof cameras are a must.  YouTube is saturated with amateur vids of adrenaline junkies riding waverunners, bananas, and zipping along with underwater scooters.

The Go Pro name has become synonymous with adventure/sports photography, and the Wi-Fi BacPac and remote combo kit will users even more control over their favorite cameras.  Just snap the BacPac onto an HD Hero2 and you can control the camera from a durable, waterproof wrist-ready remote.  Using the Go Pro app, you can also control the camera from a smartphone, tablet, or computer via a peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connection. 

The BacPac also lets you stream a live view from the camera to your mobile devices, making sure you're getting just the right shot.

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Seen any great new must-have gadgets?  Contact the SailAway tech geeks at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html with your favorite new gadgets and apps, and we'll share your comments with our readers.

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.

When planning a Caribbean yacht charter vacation, couples traveling with other couples often face an all-too-common hurdle:  Select a large, expensive yacht with equal cabins or choose a smaller, more affordable boat and draw straws to see which couple gets the cabin with two single beds.

Fortunately, a 37 meter Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel has come to the rescue of couples everywhere by offering equal cabins and affordable rates.

The 120 foot motor yacht TOUCH offers accommodations for 4 couples in 4 equal staterooms - each featuring a king size bed and ensuite bathroom. 

While similar-sized yachts are charging rates in excess of $75,000 plus expenses, per week, M/Y TOUCH has kept her prices reasonable - charging $65,000 per week, plus expenses, for 8 guests, during the 2012 Caribbean charter season.

Launched in 2004, the yacht underwent a $1.5 million refit in 2011.  The yacht was painted top-to-bottom, the entertainment system was upgraded with new flat screen TV’s, audio speakers and components, and new fabrics and coverings on most of the yacht's indoor and outdoor furniture.

Based in St Thomas, USVI, the yacht and her crew keep guests busy with an amazing assortment of watertoys such as a high-speed 29' sportfish tender, sea kayaks, snorkel gear, and an assortment of towable toys.  After a day of playing, a large ondeck Jacuzzi tub offers couples the chance to relax sore muscles and enjoy a cocktail under the stars.

Filling this special niche for couples should keep motor yacht TOUCH busy for years to come...

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Planning an all-couples vacation in the Caribbean?  Let our destination experts show you the various options for both sailing yachts and motoryachts.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today for more details.  

John Staluppi, the luxury yacht charter world's archetypical yacht owner is at it again. Driven by imagination and pride, Staluppi has taken possession of his 16th megayacht. 

Launched on Saturday 26th November 2011 at the state-of-the-art Benetti shipyard in Livorno, Italy the 60 meter Benetti FB253 is the boat's official identification, but like so many of his earlier yachts, the vessel has been christened to honor another James Bond classic novel and film - motor yacht DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER.

Based on the shipyard's famed naval architecture and engineering, the elegant external line of the new Benetti FB253 M/Y (Motoryacht) DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER is characterized by compact forms and dynamic slender lines.  This balanced combination of traditional design elements and modern innovative stylistic solutions has become the benchmark of Benetti's distinguishing mark throughout the world.

Long a fan of the James Bond 007 saga,  Staluppi's earlier creations included the aptly named motor yacht OCTOPUSSY, motoryacht MOONRAKER, motor yacht THUNDERBALL, M/Y THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH, and the popular Bahama yacht charters mega yacht CASINO ROYALE, a fixture at the posh Atlantis Resort and Marina on Paradise Island.

Although M/Y CASINO ROYALE and his latest effort M/Y DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER were built for true luxury at sea, Staluppi's earlier James Bond boat creations were built with a singular focus - SPEED.  Setting records as some of the fastest superyachts in the world, it was the 43.5 meter motor yacht OCTOPUSSY which broke the 50-knot speed barrier 20 years ago and brought the name of New York-born John Staluppi to the attention of yacht aficionados.

With a background that is now well-known, the self-made millionaire left school when he was 16 and worked as a mechanic in Brooklyn before going on to develop one of the most successful car dealerships in North America -- a business that enabled him to indulge his passion for racing fast boats, and then later for building megayachts.

While many charter yacht owners prefer to remain anonymous, Staluppi's vision and passion bring fervor and excitement to a very conservative industry. After all, there aren't many yachts aboard which guests are greeted by frosted-glass panels delicately etched with the silhouettes of Bond girls! 

The customized, whimsical James Bond boat themes are a refreshing breath of fresh air in an industry of white, cookie-cutter production boats.  Let's hope Staluppi doesn't run out of 007 movie titles, or his passion, any time soon.

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Live the adventure - come explore an exotic destination on a James Bond boat. Contact SailAway Yacht Charters' 007 agent headquarters at http//www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to arrange your luxury yacht charter.

As the year draws to a close, luxury yacht charter maven Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, is beaming.  "We've closed our year with the addition of 40 brand new 2011 models to our global network of yacht charter vessels.  The largest of our new offerings is the 81 meter Feadship motor yacht AIR, followed by Proteksan Turquoise yacht TALISMAN C and Rossi Navi motor yacht NUMPTIA, both 70 meters in overall length."

With a reputation for offering the newest and largest yachts in the world's best destinations, Sheeder and her team at SailAway spend countless hours identifying potential charter yachts. "Rarely do we add any yacht to our fleet that is more than two to three years old, " says Sheeder.  "Even when we consider classic-styled yachts, we prefer to promote modern reproductions of famous yachts.  Clients know they can turn to us for yachts that are on the cutting edge of new technology and styling."

An example of Sheeder's pursuit of modern yachts is the newly launched 47 meter sail yacht GERMANIA NOVA, a replica of a classic racing schooner first launched in 1908. Says Sheeder, "Turn of the century guests onboard the original yacht would marvel at the technological comforts onboard this modern vessel. From satellite televisions to 5.1 Dolby surround sound, the only thing 'old' on this yacht is the classic design."

Many of the new yachts are award winners in global design competitions, such as the annual ShowBoats Design Awards.  "We pay close attention to these competitions," reports Sheeder.  "The best designers and naval architects in the world judge these yachts.  Odds are great that if the best minds in the industry like a boat, our clients will, too."

Recent award winners promoted by SailAway to their clients include late 2010 launch Perini Navi motor yacht EXUMA (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Displacement Motor Yachts 100′-199′), and the 42 meter Holland Jachtbouw motor yacht CALLIOPE (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Semi-displacement Motor Yachts).

As to the new year, Sheeder is even more optimistic.  "Our research indicates that 72 new megayachts were ordered in 2011, the largest at 100 meters, and an average length of almost 43 meters. Eighty per cent of these newly-built yachts will be launched in 2012 or 2013, and we'll surely have an entirely new inventory of yachts-for-hire to present to our clients!" 

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To charter a newly launched yacht in 2012, contact SailAway's charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

Yesterday, a client texted us from his 170 foot Feadship yacht charter vessel. "@ anchor next 2  yacht Eclipse & Larry Ellison motor yacht Rising Sun...no 1 else here!" 

Normally, with less than a week before New Year's Eve, the quay at Port du Gustavia is already packed with yachts, stern-to and packed like sardines, side-by-side.  The annual St Barts yacht charter scene is the place to be, as A-list celebrities and corporate CEO's spend the week yacht-hopping and partying. 

So far this week, the big names - and big boats - have not arrived.

A recent yachting industry report ads credence to the first-hand observations in St Barts.  The annual Superyachting Index analyses the global luxury yacht industry. The Index has three sections (new construction, brokerage, and charter) and covers yachts 80 feet and larger.

According to Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, "A lack of demand continues to put downward pressure on charter rates. A weak global economy coupled with a significant increase in the number of available yachts for hire means more yachts are competing for charter business.  Add to this a host of other heavily-discounted vacation options, such as upscale villa and resort ski packages, and the number of clients electing to go boating has dwindled to 2006 recession levels."  

The Index supports Sheeder's assertions.  The size of the yacht charter industry grew more than 23 percent in 2010. As of 2009, there were about 850 yachts available for charter. In 2010, the number of yachts available rose to 1,049.

This trend is especially evident in the category of yachts from 30 to 50 meters (about 100 to 165 feet). There was a 28 per cent increase in the number of these yachts on the charter market in 2010. Consequently, the same market segment saw a reduction of 10.7 per cent in weekly base rates.

In addition, the overall number of charter weeks sold worldwide in 2010 decreased by 9 percent from those of 2009. That means that in addition to increased competition, there were fewer clients booking.

All luxury travel companies are looking forward to a healthier economy.

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For further information about the global megayacht market, contact SailAway President Jana Sheeder directly at jsheeder@1800sailaway.com or via the web at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html

Making its world debut at the 2012 Tullett Prebon London Boat Show in January 2012, Sunseeker Yachts will unveil the new Sunseeker 28 model.

The first of a distinctive new generation combining the very latest in innovation and technology, the new 28 meter Sunseeker will be the perfect platform for smaller group term charters for 4 to 8 guests.

The 2012 Sunseeker 28 shows a new "look"  for the famous performance yacht builder. Most captivating is the remarkable extent of main deck glazing. Full height and pillarless, the glazing flows continuously down the sides and around the rear of the saloon, where it merges with the aft patio doors. This new wrap-around glazing gives the main deck accommodation a unique, panoramic floor-to-ceiling view and a bright, sun-filled interior.

External conversation areas on the foredeck and flybridge have been innovated with new sunpad and group seating formats. The expansive foredeck has given rise to a completely new seating/sunpad layout with a center companionway emphasizing the increased social areas.

The large flybridge deck offers unrivalled room for any mega yacht charter vessels in the 25 to 30 meter range.  This space can be tailored to suit every owner's needs - from spa tubs to extended sunpads, this area will have multiple entertainment layouts.

Offering a breakthrough in interior layout and design, the Sunseeker 28 features interior furnishings selected from the 2012 Sunseeker Collection of materials and linings, ensuring that the striking exterior design continues throughout the interior. Two individual stairways lead down to four well appointed (and spacious) staterooms, including two VIP double staterooms and a full-beam master suite. Each cabin incorporates the large viewing window now synonymous with Sunseeker design.

With excellent performance speeds, modern exterior lines, and refined interiors, the new Sunseeker 28 is a remarkable new craft.   She will soon join similar-sized 2011 models already in charter such as Sunseeker Predator 84 yacht FIRECRACKER and Sunseeker 34 yacht TUPPENCE.   
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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.

You have a dilemma - you've nearly drained the bank account to pay for your family's Caribbean yacht charter Christmas vacation, but you still want to get the kids some affordable (and cool) presents.  No worries, Mate!  We may live in challenging economic times, but here are three great gadgets that cost $100 dollars or less:

OnLive Player
While most luxury sailing charter vessels in the islands have game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox, innovative on-demand gamers will love OnLive Player, the latest technology in cloud gaming.  Some latency issues means that Cloud video gaming is not at its peak quite yet, but give the $99.99 OnLive service and its accompanying player a chance to lead you into the future. The games are all top-tier titles, and the service allows members to take their games from the company’s servers to their television sets and includes a controller.  Charterers can plug into their yacht's onboard VSAT TV's and drift off into the Cloud...

Powermat
Anyone who has seen that frantic look on the kids' faces as they search for a cord before their phone gives up that last gasp of battery life can benefit from the Powermat, a charger that works with a receiver placed on the back of your phone. The ads are a bit temperamental - you have to put your phone in just the right spot to get the juice flowing - but it’s very convenient once you get the knack. Mats start at just $30. A particularly good deal is the 2X mat with a Powercube, which lets you set down a device to charge and has a built-in cord that you can change to fit just almost any device.

Sony Headphones
Come on, Mom and Dad - everyone knows that the standard white earbuds that come with Apple's products are soooo lame!  Your just not cool without a pair of black earbuds, and Sony is the must-have brand.  A great noise-canceling pair, the Sony MDRNC13, zaps outside noise for just $70. Most of Sony’s headphones do a decent job of cutting out the background noise -- even the cheaper models designed for the iPod or iPhone, such as the $30 XB earbuds, which also have built-in volume controls.

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Rent private yacht - Get away from the cold and spend a week or more in the sunny Caribbean on your own private sailboat or motoryacht.  Contact the SailAway charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for great winter and spring deals. 

At the recent ShowBoats Design Awards gala, the winner of the annual Young Designer of the Year Award was announced in front of an international audience of yacht owners and leading luxury yacht charter designers.

Michael Givens was declared the 2011 winner, taking home €5,000 in prize money, and topping a competition that drew 30 entries from 20 countries.

Additionally, the winner and the top five finalists are presented with a host of unique opportunities aimed at advancing their design careers, including complimentary access to the two-day Superyacht Design Symposium and an all-expenses paid trip to see the design and construction of Lürssen yacht charter vessels under construction at the builders shipyards in Bremen and Rendsburg, Germany.

The competition hosted by ShowBoats Media, is a worldwide initiative to uncover the yachting industry’s up-and-coming creative talents.

Contestants submitted design portfolios and were judged by an elite panel of internationally known yacht designers including Andrew Winch, Dickie Bannenberg & Rob Humphreys.

"Being called on stage to accept the Young Designer of the Year Award was the most exciting moment of my life," beamed Givens.  "It is truly astonishing to be starting out in this industry and have had the opportunity to attend such a prestigious event. The award, along with the entire experience, will be cherished."
    
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Charter an award winning yacht like sail yacht TWIZZLE, or motor yacht EXUMA.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html  to charter your own private luxury yacht today. 

The owner of sail yacht BLISS has announced an ALL-INCLUSIVE special offer on the 37 meter luxury yacht charter vessel.

The charter rate of $98,000 per week includes three meals per day, standard bar and table wines, generator fuel, main engine fuel for an average of 3 hours per day, ship’s laundry, airport transit fees, and berthing fees for the first and last nights.

Not included, and to be charged to the charterer, will be any requested vintage wines and champagnes, communications costs, marina fees (apart from first and last night), and any shore excursions.

With her clean lines and contemporary design, sloop sailboat BLISS is a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and speed - ideal for extended cruising. Her composite hull and performance rigging enable her to sail efficiently in most wind conditions, offering comfortable cruising at all times, plus more exhilarating performance when desired.

Her modern interior décor features custom paint finishes with textured leather and shagreen-wrapped panels. Outdoor areas offer sunbathing, shaded cockpit dining and a convenient swimming platform.

BLISS offers flexible and luxurious accommodations in three ensuite cabins, two of which can be configured as doubles or twins. Four additional Pullman berths allow her to accommodate up to 10 guests in total, making her perfect for families or groups of friends.

Onboard amenities include:

    ●Kaleidescape movie server with movies and music accessible in each stateroom and in the saloon

    ●iPod docking stations in each stateroom

    ●Satellite TV in each stateroom and the saloon

For active guests, sail yacht BLISS's aquasport inventory includes:

●Castoldi 16m diesel jet tender
●2 stand-up paddle boards
●Water-skis (adult & child)
●Wakeboard
●Kneeboard
●Towing ring
●Towable banana
●2 single-seat kayaks
●Snorkel gear
●Kite surfing equipment (for experienced users only)
●Fishing gear
●Spa pool on deck

Please note that the yacht is booked for: 29 Dec – 7 Jan 12 in St Maarten in the Caribbean

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For more information or to book your private luxury yacht charter vacation, contact SailAway at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html 

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.

It's been said a Caribbean yacht charter vacation is a great way to kick the blues.  Now, a popular sailing charter yacht wants to help you sing the blues!

Book sail yacht MAKAYABELLA during the Bequia Mount Gay Music Festival (January 26th – 29th, 2012) and the yacht's crew, John and Sue, will provide the guests with complimentary tickets to both the Friday and Saturday night performances.

Outstanding performances by local, regional and international artists has made this music festival one of the “must see” fixtures on the Caribbean season’s calendar.  The event kicks off with Dana Gillespie and her London Blues Band’s performance on Friday night and lasts for four days.  The festival has received rave reviews since its inception and precedes the 14-day Mustique Blues Festival.

The main venue and stage is located at De Reef, right on the beach in Lower Bay, Bequia, with the big performances on Friday and Saturday night - followed by lazy Sunday afternoon “limin’” music to close out the weekend.

The cozy sailboat MAKAYABELLA can accommodate 6 guests in 4 cabins.  The Master cabin has a double bed, shower and toilet. 2 Guest cabins have a twin bed, shower and toilet.  A Guest cabin has a double bed, shower and toilet. All cabins are ensuite.  On warm evenings, the yacht offers air conditioning in the saloon.



John and Sue have taken guests to this event for the last few years and they report everyone has a great time. "We feel it’s a great event," says John, "and very much worth promoting as a focal point of a charter here in the Grenadines."

If you're a music lover and looking for a unique charter experience, plan a yachting holiday onboard sail yacht MAKAYABELLA around the festival's dates, and John and Sue will throw in the tickets - free of charge.

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To book a special event yachting vacation, contact the SailAway destination team 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.