Wednesday, 21 August 2019

USVI Yacht Charter Sample Itinerary



Whether the occasion is a honeymoon, anniversary or amorous getaway, the Virgin Islands are a perfect escape.

Day 1.
Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie Harbor is just a 10-minute taxi ride from St. Thomas International Airport. Step aboard your private yacht and we greet you with a warm welcome and a chilled glass of champagne. Your beautiful charter begins.

Once you have your luggage in the cabin we will meet on deck for a safety briefing. Then we hoist the sails and head for the sparkling clear waters of Christmas Cove, USVI. You can plunge right off the deck to float in the balmy, Caribbean Sea. We anchor here for the night.

Day 2.
We enjoy showing off the yacht's capabilities on this exhilarating sail to Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands. We will clear customs and then serve lunch on the aft deck. The views are spectacular.
This afternoon, go beachcombing and soak up the sun on a talcum powder, sandy beach at White Bay. In the evening, we will anchor off the island of Sandy Spit. It is beautiful, secluded and very romantic spot to be together.



Day 3.
This morning, we will move the yacht to Sandy Cay (pronounced key), a tiny, uninhabited island just a few miles away. Sandy Cay boasts pristine white sand and ideal snorkeling. Swim ashore and follow the trail around this protected paradise.

After breakfast, we set sail to Muskmelon Bay, on Guana Island, another secluded anchorage. Rocky cliffs surrounding the bay give it a very majestic feel. Experienced divers can reach spectacular reefs at depths of 60 to 80 feet in ever-so-clean water.

Native birds and animals that have been wiped out on other Caribbean islands still thrive on Guana Island thanks to a decades-long restoration project, including the stout iguana and several other lizard species. We think it’s one of the best kept secrets in the BVI. In the evening, relax on the trampoline with sundowners and hors d'oeuvres as the sun sinks below the horizon.

Day 4. 
Today we sail to Marina Cay, a flower infused, eight-acre island ringed by a dreamy, white sand beach. It is the center of a green lagoon with calm, warm, shallow water. Snorkel the amazing reef, home to schools of colorful fish and marine life.

After a romantic champagne brunch, we sail to the highly-rated Scrub Island Resort where you will enjoy a complimentary couples spa treatment at the Ixora Spa, rated a Top 10 Spa by Caribbean Travel & Life.



Day 5. 
While it’s no secret, one of our favorite attractions is The Baths on Virgin Gorda. Climbing around the massive granite boulders and splashing in the shallow pools is great fun. Virgin Gorda Sound has gentle surf, perfect for kayaking, snorkeling or napping in the sun.

For lunch we stop at Cooper Island Beach Resort. This excellent restaurant is located in a breezy pavilion. The Cooper Island Brewing Company, a microbrewery, produces a variety of fine beers. Cooper Island is also home to one of the best rum bars in the Caribbean. Anchor for the evening in Great Harbour, Peter Island. Dance the night away aboard the famous Willie T.

Day 6. 
This morning we drop anchor off the legendary Caves on Norman Island. Unverified stories of sunken treasure found in the caves continue to inspire treasure hunters of all ages. You can swim into the caves and snorkel all around them. Keep an eye out for doubloons. Later it’s time to relax with sundowners at Pirates Bight beach club.



Day 7.
This day we dedicate to relaxation and rejuvenation. Spend the day on anchor at Francis Bay, St. John Island in the US Virgins. This is a protected nature reserve. Here, the natural beauty will enchant you. Envision white sand, tropical sun, cooling shade, and calm surf for excellent swimming and snorkeling.

Day 8. 
Your last day begins with a pleasant downwind sail to Yacht Haven Grande Marina. By now you may want to take a final turn at the helm! As you sail past the stunning seascape you reflect on the wonderful adventures you’ve had.


For more information regarding a USVI Yacht Charter please visit:
https://royaltyyachts.com/destinations/usvi-yacht-charter/

Grenadines Yacht Charter Itinerary



Day 1:
Refresh with chilled glasses of champagne while we stow your luggage. After an orientation and quick safety briefing, we’ll set sail for the enchanting island of Bequia.

We drop anchor in Port Elizabeth and tender ashore. You can hire a car and driver to tour the island, stroll around town, or relax on the beach. Tonight, we can prepare a candlelit dinner aboard, or you may head ashore for cocktails and dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants.

Day 2:
This morning after breakfast we will set sail to Salt Whistle Bay in Mayreau. This is a slightly longer sail, so there’s plenty of leisure time to lounge together on the trampoline with drinks and snacks. For romantic getaways only, our open bar includes your choice of champagne or rosé wine. Plus, as our special gift to you, we will take videos and photos to capture your entire trip.

Salt Whistle is a protected, palm tree-lined bay. Enjoy a snorkel around the bay, or head out on the paddle board or kayak. Walk the length of sandy beach lined with local souvenir stalls. Follow the footpath across to the next bay and watch world-class kite surfers.

Tonight, you will have a delicious dinner on board, including candles and a rose. Dinner will be followed by Salsa and Merengue fun (and sexy) dancing on deck. Instruction is included!



Day 3:
After a special breakfast ashore at the Salt Whistle Bay Hotel in Mayreau, we will set off to the beautiful Tobago Cays Marine Reserve. Snorkeling here is incredible. There are huge turtles, foot-long puffer fish, schools of colorful tropical fish and other fascinating marine life. Dive into the water right off the aft deck to go snorkeling. Launch the stand-up paddle boards or kayaks to explore along the shore. Tonight, it’s a party in the sand at a delicious BBQ on the beach prepared by local chefs Willy and Bets.

Day 4:
The balmy, turquoise water beckons. Take a morning dip before having breakfast on deck. Today we sail to Union Island, an authentic Caribbean community that warmly welcomes visitors. You can take a tour of the island, or explore the market at Clifton Harbour. There are dreamy white sand beaches and snorkeling right off the yacht. Sparrows Beach Club is a favorite afternoon hideaway.

We can also visit Janti on world-famous Happy Island for an afternoon rum cocktail. Later we will round the island to anchor in stunning Chatham Bay for the evening. This is a wonderful bay for snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding. There are some great beach bars, like Vanessa’s, which you can visit for a romantic sundowner.

Day 5:
This morning we sail into Grenadian waters for the first time. We will stop at Sandy Island to snorkel. This tiny, picture-perfect, palm tree lined island, is favored as a wedding destination by the locals. For an especially romantic lunch, we will lay a picnic, just for the two of you, on one of the deserted islands, possibly Mopion Island, which is close to Petite Saint Vincent.



After lunch, we will sail to Tyrell Bay on the island of Carriacou. This quiet anchorage is a favorite of cruisers. There’s a long sandy beach with rum shacks as well as nice restaurants along the shore. Shop in town for souvenir Lion Fish jewelry and local arts and crafts as special keepsakes.

Day 6:
We will sail down the visually breathtaking, west coast of Grenada. This is a mountainous island of rainforests, waterfalls and fertile valleys. We will anchor near the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area. Here, the Underwater Sculpture Park is a testimonial dedicated to and created by the people of Grenada. This is a must-experience snorkeling adventure.

Day 7:
Enjoy a leisurely swim this morning. Splash about on the floaties before indulging in breakfast with mimosas. After breakfast, we embark on the short sail into Port Louis Marina. We will arrive in time for your noon (12 PM) departure from the yacht.

For more information regarding a St. Vincent and the Grenadines Yacht Charter please visit:
https://royaltyyachts.com/destinations/st-vincent-grenadines-yacht-charter/



St. Vincent and the Grenadines Yacht Charter Sample Itinerary



St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a single country comprised of many islands. The archipelago is part of the southern Windward Islands. Stunning reefs and undersea life make snorkeling and scuba diving especially thrilling. Rich, volcanic soil produces fragrant, delicious and exotic crops. By land or by sea, the natural surroundings are breathtaking. The climate and sailing conditions are ideal. Why charter in the Grenadines? Because it is a paradise, and it is unlike anywhere else on earth.

The Grenadine islands are relatively close together. This sample itinerary begins and ends in St. Vincent. However, chartering one way from St. Vincent to Grenada is also very popular. You could visit the same islands, possibly one or two more, but in a different order. One of the advantages of a private yacht charter is that every itinerary is customized to individual interests and priorities. Even when you have a plan, it's flexible. You can always change your mind, linger a day longer, or add a stop to visit new friends.



Day 1:
St. Vincent is the archipelago's main island and the administrative capital. It provides goods and services to the smaller islands in the chain. St. Vincent has spectacular, natural features. La Soufrière is a 4,049-foot-high, active volcano. It dominates a landscape of undulating thick forests that drop down to black-sand and white-sand beaches. St. Vincent is the preferred starting point for down island exploration. Many charter yachts prefer embarking from the beautiful Blue Lagoon, located at the south coast city of Calliaga.

Day 2:
During the scenic, downwind cruise, throw out a line behind the yacht and no doubt you will feast on fresh fish in the evening. In the afternoon you will arrive at Charlestown Bay on Canouan’s west side. This tiny island of heavily forested mountains has a rich history stretching back over 2,000 years. Arawak founders named their home Cannoun, meaning turtle island.

Dive or snorkel on one of the Caribbean’s longest barrier reefs. Bask in near seclusion on brilliant white sand beaches. Take a refreshing swim, snorkel or dive. Enjoy refreshments at the beachfront restaurant at Tamarind Beach Hotel. If the season is right, glimpse a pod of humpback, sperm or pilot whales.



Days 3:
Tobago Cays Marine Park is made up of a 50 sq. km sand-bottomed lagoon. Stretches of beach surround five uninhabited island. Go swimming, snorkeling or diving in the most extensive and well-developed coral reef complex in St Vincent. Visibility is an astonishing 100 to 120 feet. Hike the wooded islands and small systems of mangroves. In the evening, local cooks arrive to prepare a barbecue feast by reservation only. It's a tradition you don't want to miss. Work off the calories with crab races, another island tradition. When night falls, the sky fills with so many stars they illuminate the fish, sand and coral beneath your hull.

Day 4:
A short sail brings into view the dramatic silhouette of volcanic mountains that define Union Island. Clifton Harbour provides a marvelous anchorage. At its center is the famous man-made, handmade Happy Island. This rollicking bar hosts an assortment of interesting patrons and features awesome views. Stroll up the main road in the busy town of Clifton. Poke around the craft stalls, shops, restaurants and enjoy some evening entertainment. Stretch your sea legs with a hike or bike to Mount Taboi, nearly 1,000 feet above sea level. Roads and trails throughout the island offer some of the best hiking and biking in the Grenadines. For a more leisurely afternoon of fine dining, a massage and a swim, head to Sparrow's Beach Club.

Day 5:
Mayreau is the smallest inhabited island in the Grenadines. It is the Caribbean as it was, before cruise ships and big resorts. It is accessible only by sea. Drop anchor in serene Saltwhistle Bay, offshore from sweeping Half Moon Beach.

It's an easy hike to picturesque Old Wall village, perched on a hilltop. Just take the only paved road leading from Saltwhistle Bay to Saline Bay. Bring your camera. Along the walk you'll see goats and dogs, a couple of eateries, some lovely gardens and a general store. But, you probably won't see cars. When you reach the top, you can see all the way to the Tobago Cays. Peek into the little Roman Catholic Church atop Station Hill. In the evening, join locals gathering with friends to socialize and play music. Favorite spots are the Saltwhistle Bay Beach Club and Robert Righteous & De Youths.



Day 6:
Bequia is an island of many towns and much history. Dock in Port Elizabeth in Admiralty Bay. Here you will enjoy the charming fusion of the traditional and the modern. This is still an island of local sailors, hand-built boats, and an active but low-key whaling station. You will also find a well-developed tourist infrastructure with upscale resorts, gourmet restaurants, thriving retail shops, and professional yacht services.

Brightly colored rooftops poking through the trees delightfully epitomize traditional West Indian architecture. For a half-day adventure into island culture, negotiate a fixed price and take a taxi tour. Many interesting stops will include Mt. Pleasant, for breathtaking 360-degree views, and Friendship Bay. This alternative yacht anchorage is usually quieter than Admiralty Bay.

Day 7:
Return to the serenity of Blue Lagoon and the lush, rugged mountains of St. Vincent. There is plenty to explore here, especially if you can spend an extra day or two. Embark on popular day trips to the 3,000-foot summit of the Soufrière volcano, or the Falls of Baleine. Visit the Botanical Gardens, Fort Charlotte and Montreal Gardens. Or simply spend a few final moments on deck with a cooling drink. Watch the play of changing colors on the hillsides. Dream about your next yacht charter adventure. Add a day, or charter one way and include Carriacou, Grenada, or any of many other captivating island destinations. Carriacou is known as the ‘isle of reefs’ and described by travel writers as an 'uncut diamond', Carriacou is quintessentially Caribbean. Escape the beaten tourist track and experience the leisurely seduction of island living. The island's natural beauty adds to its appeal. Carriacou has many empty beaches, pristine coves and countless outlying uninhabited islets. Carriacou's interior consists of wooded mountainous terrain with spectacular views towards Grenada to the south and the rest of the Grenadine islands to the north.



Grenada will surprise you. The Spice Island offers much to explore, from tourist to natural attractions. In general, Grenadians are welcoming, well-educated, sophisticated and religious. The island has worldclass marinas, gourmet restaurants, top ranked beaches, rain forests, waterfalls and rum factories. One could happily spend a long time here.

For more information regarding a St. Vincent and the Grenadines Yacht Charter please visit:
https://royaltyyachts.com/destinations/st-vincent-grenadines-yacht-charter/

Thursday, 15 August 2019

Martinique Yacht Charter Sample Itinerary

Martinique Yacht Charter
Day 1: Le Marin to Le Vauclin
Visit Eglise du Marin, an 18th-century church built by Jesuits, which is a both charming and historic. Set sail around the southern tip of the island and head north to Le Vauclin, a small town on the Atlantic coast. Faula Headland is a famous kitesurfing spot. The beach is especially popular for water sports enthusiasts and families. Children can paddle for long distances in shallow water.

Day 2: Le Vauclin to Le Francois 
Sail north from Le Vauclin to Le Francois There are two major attractions here: The Islets of the Bay with White Shoals, with the favorite swimming spot of empress Josephine, and the magnificent Habitation Clément, among the most beautiful places in Martinique. Enjoy the botanical and sculpture garden, historic buildings, rum distillery and tastings. Evening entertainment might include a traditional Martinican dance performance of the Haute Taille.

Martinique Yacht Charter
Day 3: Le Francois to Le Robert 
A short sail brings you to the city of Le Robert. Visiting this paradise by yacht is ideal, as it is famous for many beautiful islets surrounded by white sand. Chancel islet has the remains of an old sugar plantation. Madame islet is a little gem with white sand banks and turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and exploring the underwater scenery.

Day 4: Le Robert to Trinité 
Sample the products of Martinique at the colorful market held every day except Sunday. Set out on well-marked trails to discover the exceptional fauna and flora of the peninsula of Caravelle, protected as a nature reserve. There are historic sites to explore, lovely beaches and excellent conditions for watersports fun.

Martinique Yacht Charter
Day 5: Trinité to St Pierre
Saint-Pierre is located on the Caribbean coast at the foot of the famous Pelée mountain volcano. On May 2, 1902, Pelée’s violent eruption destroyed the town. Ruins that remain are a moving reminder of this tragic event. Saint-Pierre is listed as a Town of Art and History with many interesting places to explore including the volcanological museum. It is also of great interest to divers. Many ships sank into the sea on the day of the great volcanic eruption.

Day 6: Saint-Pierre to Anse d'Arlet 
The municipality of Les Anses-d'Arlet has three main coves. The Big Cove (Grande Anse) in the north, which has a lovely promenade with cafés and restaurants along a long, white sand beach. The Arlet Coves (Anses d'Arlet) in the center, and the Small Cove (Petite Anse) in the south, are perfect for a relaxing swim.

Martinique Yacht Charter
Day 7: Anse d'Arlet to Ste Anne
Ste Anne is very close to Le Marin, so a perfect final destination. It is a colorful fishing village known for its picturesque houses and beautiful beaches. The seafront has bungalows, bars, restaurants and a typical market that takes place every morning. Take your camera on a coastal hike of the Capes Trail, which reaches the famous picture postcard beach of Salines. Nearby, nature-lovers can admire some remarkable protected sites like the Petrification Savannah, or the Salines pond, a sanctuary for many migrant birds. In the evening, savor the sunset with farewell sundowners and thoughts of return.

For more information regarding a Martinique Yacht Charter please visit:
https://royaltyyachts.com/destinations/martinique-yacht-charter/