SAMPLE  ITINERARY

The Following itineraries are only suggestions and can be altered to suit your requirements.

CARIBBEAN – WINTER SEASON

The majority of first time charterers choose the Caribbean for their destination because of the predictably good weather, crystal-clear waters and lush tropical islands. The Caribbean cruising areas mainly consist of the Virgin Islands, British and US, St. Martin to Antigua in the Leeward Islands and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Windward Islands.

Many of the small islands of the Caribbean are serviced by regional air lines which connect the the main international airports.

The Virgin Islands (US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands)

One of the secrets of the Virgin Islands is that when it comes to weather, there is no off-season; the gentle climate invites you year-round. Easily reachable by all major airlines, the Virgin islands offer a collection of more than 100 islands, many of them unspoiled, and untouched except by nature. Visit islands like Virgin Gorda and see the Baths, giant sized boulders that form facinating pools and grottoes ; Norman Island and visit Billy Bones restaurant for local rosti (spicy curry wrapped meat and vegetables); Peter Island where there is a great beach on Deadman’s Bay.

The Grenadines

St. Vincent and the Grenadines are a necklace of 32 islands and cays inthe Eastern Caribbean. The warm hospitality of its people and its breathtaking natural beauty attract visitors from around the world. Mustique, privately owned island, where the rich and famous holiday away from the public eye, fabulous houses to see and not to missed a sundowner at the famed Basil’s Bar on the beach; Mayreau is a small island with no raods and can only be reached by boat. Experience the great food at the Salt Whistle Bay Club set in the trees behind the beach. Tobago Cays, the star of the show! A cluster of islets protected by a vast horseshow reef, creating a multicoloured lake of green, blue and turquoise. Snorkelling is a must to discover the beautiful array of colourful tropical fish – a rare tropical paradise that can only be reached by boat.

Leeward islands

The Leeward Islands span some 200 miles and include 10 major islands operating as different nations, from Anguilla in the North to the french island of Martinique in the South the variety is unparalleled. Antigua, one of the larger islands, visit Falmouth and English Harbour, where Lord Nelson was stationed in 1784. Nelson’s Dockyard has been beautifully reconstructed to house hotels and restaurants. Be sure to go to Shirley Heights Lookout, with its sweeping view over English Harbour, it’s a perfect way to watch the sun set with a rum punch and listen to the local reggae band.

St. Barts, is the perfect holiday hideaway. It has become the favoured hotspot for the “in” crowd, the Riviera of the Caribbean. A great place to shop, all the famous names are here, a small plastic credit card is very useful! Gustavia, the main town is great place to eat out. La Marine on the southwest of the island serves the best seafood in St. Barts in a suitably nautical atmosphere.

Nevis, is a quiet and peaceful island, with lovely views , picturesque houses and delightful people. Pinney’s Beach is so gorgeous you may want to laze away a whole day there. If so Sunshine is a great hangout for lunch or dinner Try one of Sunshine’s “killer bee” drinks! Anyone having problems with Caribbean culture shock will feel at home at the Four Seasons Hotel on Pinney’s Beach. They have a magnificent 18 hole golf course, clubs are available for hire.

Dominica, a volcanic island, greenery erupts from every square inch, climbing, falling till the whole land is covered in a verdant tangle of trees, vines, shrubs and ferns. Add to this a plethora of birds, butterflies, and brightly coloured flowers, you can begin to imagine the almost magical nature of the island. A trip up the Indian River is an amazing experience. The river quickly narrows and gets completely overhung by huge bloodwood trees on both sides. Here and there long vines dangle into the river and as you glide along you see fish below the crabs on both banks. This, along with the many sounds of insects and birds gives it a magical quality.

Isle des Saintes, this is an irresistible group of islands, with idyllic Gallic charm. Bourg des Saintes is an adorable seaside town, many little boutiques selling brightly painted jewellery banana leaf art, riverstone carvings, most of it locally made. Le Genois is a great waterfront restaurant, the desserts are to die for and well worth sailing to the Saintes just for the tarte tatin.

THE MEDITERRANEAN – SUMMER SEASON

Nowhere in the world is there a sailing area as rich in history and cultural significance as the Mediterranean. From the magical isles of Greece, and Turkey in the East, up the Croation coast and Italy to the French Riviera, and Corsica in the Western Mediterranean.

Greece

Continue the tradition of thousands of years of sailing the Aegean with an unforgettable sailing adventure beginning in Athens, the crown jewel of the Mediterranean. Breathtaking sights , ancient temples, charming ports, stacks of white houses on hillsides and beaches like no others. You can choose between the Aegean, Ionian, Sporades and Dodecanese for a wide range of sailing experiences. Visit the islands of Crete, Rhodes, Milos and sample the delights of roast barbeque lamb, Moussaka, stuffed aubergines, and local wines.

Turkey

An islamic country, is the meeting place of Europe and Asia. Turkey has a plethora of world class historic sites with enormous amphitheatres, fortresses, temples and cities all with easy, informal access. You can sail along the rocky and pine-covered turquoise coast of the Aegean Sea, quiet coves, and deep gulfs stretching for dozens of miles. Sailing in Turkey allows you to experience a truly enriching cultural exchange with the hospitable people of the coastal towns and villages.

Croatian coast

Explore the ‘Jewel of the Adriatic’. Dubrovnik, completed in the 13th century, the city is said to be the most perfectly preserved medieval town in the world. Lined with small courtyard cafes, the narrow cobblestone streets lead to splendid squares packed with colourful markets, restaurants and bars. Sail up to the beautiful Kornati archipelago made up of 150 islands. The highlight of any cruise here has to be the stunning Krka waterfalls at Skradin on the mainland – Make sure you don’t miss out.

Italy and the Italian Riviera

Sail along the famous boot of Italy and up to Naples, a city with a distinctive vitality and sample the real pizza. The Isle of Capri is a must and visit the famous Blue Grotto. Going towards the Italian Riviera, Portofino, picturesquely situated in a narrow cove, the tiny port owes its popularity to its beautiful setting. This “Pearl of the Mediterranean” has long been known as an exclusive gathering place for the wealthy, artists and actors. Dine at the famous Hotel Splendido with magical view of the bay. Bustling Genoa is only a short drive away. Sardinia, on the “Costa Smeralda”, situated in the middle of the mediterranean,, is one of the most popular destinations for people who love aquatic sports. By sailing around the island the uniqueness of Sardinia can be appreciated. The wind carries the aroma of myrtle, arbutus, rosemary and wild juniper and fills the cabin with sweet scented air. The island offers an array of gastronomic specialities from the ancient cooking traditions of the shepherds to the seafood specialities of the coast. Sardinia is rich in both handcrafts and arts, its carpets, baskets, pottery and gold filigree jewellery are both unique and high quality.

Corsica and the French Riviera

Named “ Scented Isle” for the maquis, a scrubland that abounds in Corsica that blankets the landscape and sends its fresh herbal scent out to the sea in early summer. The island is the most mountainous in the Mediterranean and is a spectacular yacht charter destination. The west coast is the most physically dramatic. The pretty port of St. Florent is definitely worth a visit. The east cost is less dramatic in terms of mountains and less populated with small harbours and villages, but it has a charm of its own.

Just to mention the French Riviera evokes images of the glitterati on fabulous charter yachts cruising through its blue waters. Not only is summer a time for sailing, it is the season for art exhibitions, concerts, festivals, fireworks and revelry. Spend several days in the lovely Iles d’Hyeres or venture further along the coast to glamorous Monaco. Food and wine are essential elements of the South of France experience. Depending on your port of call, you will always find elegant restaurants, stylish bistros, and in all of them you’ll savour marvellous wine and superb cuisine. However, don’t miss out on mostly everyone’s favourite pastime – people watching while leisurely sitting in one of the outdoor cafes or on your own private yacht!