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Embarking... Adventure in Paradise on a Virgin Islands CharterYacht Before you set sail... Anyone about to embark on a Charteryacht in the Virgin Islands will soon see why this is such a great way to get away from it all. And some suggestions from "seasoned salts" can help make the sailing even smoother, so please share this information with everyone in your charter group-- On arrival... As to where the yacht will await you, be sure you know before leaving home. Most cell phones work in the US Virgins, so bring your's and you will be able to contact the Yacht when you arrive at the Airport. On St. Thomas, it's likely to be at the American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook. On Tortola, yachts normally board guests at Beef Island, a short walk to and from the airport (it's just across the street from Trellis bay). Of course special arrangements can be made to pick you up at other locations, if you are staying on Island before your Charter. On both islands, taxi drivers are familiar with locations-- and rates are posted at the airports (check with driver on rate BEFORE you get in the taxi). You should board no earlier than noon of the day your charter starts unless you have made other arrangements. Payment & Passports... When you board your yacht, you will be expected to pay the balance due on your charter-- in traveler's checks ( $100 checks, please) or cash (is preferred), please. BVI Government fees may also be collected when clearing in to the BVI territory. No personal checks are accepted-- they can take a month to clear Stateside. U.S. currency is used in both the American and British Virgin Islands. If you'll be visiting the British Virgins or any other non-U.S. islands, a passport is required. Without one, you will not be allowed on board. . Stowing away... Space is limited on a boat, so bring soft-sided luggage or duffle bags which you can store easily. T-shirts and shorts are the usual uniform of the day when you're not in swimwear. Hard soles won't be allowed on deck, so bring boat-type shoes or rubber sandals for use on board only, plus some comfortable, cool walking shoes for jaunts ashore. (By the way, the people of the islands will appreciate it if you don't come to town in your bathing togs or other abbreviated wear.) Evening dress is about as casual as daytime dress. Bring more than one bathing suit, as you're likely to spend more time them than anything else. DO NOT bring too much, a common mistake. The tropical sun can be very damaging to skin, so bring a protective lotion (GREASELESS) that does not stain towels, sheets, cockpit cushions and decks. Sea & Ski, Coppertone, and Clinique lotions are some brands that make non-staining sunblock. Pre-sun and Bain de Soleil are very damaging, and oils in general are forbidden on board. Despite precautions, you may develop a painful burn, so bring something long sleeved to wear as a cover-up, plus a wide brimmed hat or visor. Evenings can be cool, especially out on the water, so a tight sweater or windbreaker may come in handy. Bring your camera and plenty of film, batteries, and charger (there is 110 AC on board to charge your batteries) and an extra pair of glasses or contacts if you wear them. Also, any medications you require. You may also want to bring favorite CD's, Ipod (system is Ipod ready),a good book or two, your diary or anything else that adds to the pleasure of taking life easy. Do not, however, bring illicit drugs. Your captain has too much to lose to permit their use on the yacht and can terminate the charter without refund if you bring them aboard. You needn't pack bulky towels, as these will be available on the boat. If you arrange for scuba diving, you'll be able to rent gear here. Getting to Know you... When you first come aboard, you'll be shown to your cabin and given some time to get settled, usually with a welcome-aboard cocktail in hand. The captain will explain some do's and don'ts and ask about your special interests for the cruise. Here's our chance to plot the course for where you want to go and what you want to do-- including taking the helm and trimming the sails, if you like. Remember, though, the captain is responsible for the yacht and those aboard and has the final word in all decisions. Going ashore... Your captain will be happy to arrange for activities on shore, including recreational sports and dining out. Such excursions are, of course, at your own expense and will not be deducted from your Crewed Charter fee. If you invite your crew to join you for dinner ashore as your guests, they will be delighted to do so. But if you prefer to dine out without them, they will not be slighted in the least. Provisions... You will have received a food and drink preference list to be filled in completely with regard to all member of your party (Please consult with everyone) and sent back in advance of your charter. You will be contacted by the Captain or Chef (if on a Fully Crewed Charter) to discuss the planned menu and other details. The menu will be planned based on the information you provide, including any strong dislikes or allergies you indicate. For Capt-only Charters provisioning, at Charterer's expense, will be discussed too. The yacht stocks a selection of premium wine included in the Fully Crewed Charter fee, however, more expensive wines can be put on board, usually at an incremental cost to you. |
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