Picture the perfect Caribbean vacation. Perhaps a beachfront villa rental offering seclusion and relaxation comes to mind, or maybe it’s a small-ship luxury cruise promising multi-island exploration. Now imagine a five-star tropical escape that lets you effortlessly experience both. Exclusivity and freedom—that’s the winning formula of the best vacation you’ve probably never heard of: a fully crewed, all-inclusive yacht charter with The Moorings.

Accommodating six to 10 guests—ideal for a family or group of friends—the luxurious motorized sailing yachts operated by The Moorings specialize in flexible itineraries and personalized gourmet cuisine. The state-of-the-art catamarans used for the company’s all-inclusive charters are all under five years old, built to stringent specifications, and feature air-conditioned staterooms with queen-size beds and en suite bathrooms. These sleek vessels are crewed by an experienced captain and a gourmet-trained chef, typically a couple, who will share their love for the islands as they become your personal tour guides on an unforgettable bespoke Caribbean vacation.

Flexibility is key to all crewed voyages with The Moorings; in the Caribbean, charters are available in the British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, the Bahamas (the Exumas and the Abacos), Grenada and several other locales. Spot a gleaming white-sand beach you’d like to visit? You can. Want to linger at a snorkel spot teeming with colorful sea life? No problem. Eager to sip a cool cocktail or two at the best beach bars in the BVI? Go for it! That’s the beauty of a luxury yacht charter with The Moorings: Guests, no matter their experience at sea, are free to create the itinerary of their dreams and then relax while an experienced captain makes it a reality. Beyond the Caribbean, island-lovers can also book a crewed charter with The Moorings in the Greek Islands, Croatia, Sicily, Sardinia, Tahiti and Belize. 

The extraordinary freedom of an individually curated sailing means your all-inclusive vacation unfolds exactly as you want, from a freshly prepared breakfast enjoyed on deck at sunrise to lazy afternoons swimming in picturesque coves, posing for keepsake photos at the Baths on Virgin Gorda (after the cruise ship crowds have left, of course), or marveling at blissfully remote Anegada, where you’ll feel as if you’ve arrived at the edge of the world. In the off-the-beaten-path Exumas, skim over the surface of some of the clearest, most dazzling blue water imaginable or hang out with the islands’ world-famous swimming pigs. Sun-kissed and utterly relaxed, you’ll wind down with unlimited wine and cocktails from your catamaran’s fully stocked bar as you savor the sunset and an incredible dinner prepared to your personal preferences (vegetarian, pescatarian, or lactose- or gluten-free, for example), which have been ascertained via a pre-cruise questionnaire. 

The Moorings has more than 50 years of experience in private yacht charters, and all crewmembers are trained to provide a consistent and reliable luxury experience for their guests. Your home away from home will be one of the company’s exclusive crewed vessels, which range from 45 to 58 feet in length and feature sleek, modern interior décor and ample outdoor space for relaxation. Options include The Moorings 4500, sleeping six guests; The Moorings 5000, sleeping eight guests; and The Moorings 5800, sleeping 10 guests.

Your intimate and low-key Caribbean yacht vacation can be as active or relaxing as you wish. Guests seeking to explore and play have access to water toys, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, inflatable tubes and snorkel gear. While some travelers opt to disconnect while sailing, those who wish to stay in contact with friends and family back home still can, because each of The Moorings’ luxury catamarans is equipped with Wi-Fi.

While island-hopping in the BVI, it’s also possible to experience the more social aspects of the yachting lifestyle with a visit to Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, where legendary resorts such as the Bitter End Yacht Club and Saba Rock cater to yachties with a welcoming ambience and live music. But if a private beach picnic with chilled Champagne is more your style, your captain can make that happen too. 

“The best-kept secret in travel is that a crewed yacht charter with The Moorings offers the luxury of extraordinary experiences and access to places you might not ordinarily see—places that are certain to make you say, ‘Wow!’” says Ian Pedersen, senior marketing manager for North America for The Moorings.

If this sounds like the kind of Caribbean escape that celebrities regularly indulge in, it is. But you don’t have to be famous to appreciate the privacy and exclusivity offered by a sailing charter with The Moorings. It’s easy to book a charter to celebrate an anniversary or milestone birthday, or enjoy a multigenerational family vacation (children are welcome). The company’s crewed catamarans are bookable by the day, with a five-night minimum. All-inclusive rates start at around $20,000 for a seven-night sailing accommodating six passengers. The Moorings is also a full-service travel agency that can arrange your flights and transfers. With one phone call or online consultation, you can ensure that your next Caribbean vacation will be luxuriously carefree, perfectly curated and truly unforgettable.

The post The Ultimate Caribbean Vacation: A Crewed Yacht Charter with The Moorings appeared first on Islands.

With resorts, restaurants, and watersports and activity operators spread across 60 islands and cays and 600 nautical miles, the British Virgin Islands offers the Caribbean’s biggest diversity of settings and experiences. Whether you’re looking for an active getaway packed with sailing, scuba diving, paddleboarding, snorkeling and hiking, or a more relaxed vacation with beach bars and spa sessions, this destination has it all. Choose one island or hop between several to taste a few flavors of this unspoiled destination.

 Most trips start on the island of Tortola, home of the international airport as well as most of the BVI’s yacht-charter operators. Tortola also serves as a great base for those who want to opt for day trips to nearby islands while calling just one resort home for the week. Tortola has the most ferry options, connecting guests to Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and a long list of other nearby islands. Here, you’ll also find a handful of scuba operators that take you diving on all the famous sites, from the Caribbean’s historic shipwreck, the RMS Rhone, sunk in 1867, to Angelfish Reef, a playground for sea turtles and eagle rays. Choose a resort such as Long Bay Beach Resort, which has it all—modern, airy ocean-view studios and suites as well as oceanfront villas, plus an upscale restaurant, beach bar and coffee shop to keep you satiated during your stay. Tortola packs its own attractions as well, from the hike up Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point in the Virgin Islands, ziplining, shopping to live music at Quito’s Gazebo on the beach of Cane Garden Bay. Cane Garden Bay is a hub of culinary offerings, watersports, amazing cocktails and one of the best sunsets anywhere on the planet!

Nature lovers and watersports enthusiasts tend to find their way to Virgin Gorda, the third-largest island. On Virgin Gorda, you can explore The Baths National Park, a must-see natural wonder where giant basalt boulders as large as 40 feet in diameter have collided together to form high overlooks, hidden grottoes, secret pools and a labyrinth of passageways, all set against impossibly clear, turquoise water. Virgin Gorda is also home to the beloved Bitter End Yacht Club, known equally for its fleet of sailboats, paddleboards, kitesurf and windsurf boards and gear, and much more, all available to guests for use or lessons. BEYC also just launched new overwater, high-end marina lofts, letting you start the day paddleboarding straight from your room and then take in the sunset from your own deck overlooking the North Sound. Honeymooners also name Virgin Gorda a favorite, where booking the five-star Rosewood Little Dix Bay guarantees that you will enjoy pampering, yoga, the Sense Spa and upscale accommodations with outdoor showers, all amid a natural setting that highlights the tropical landscape and bluewater views. Known for its upscale and luxurious villas well-suited to family and multigenerational travel, Oil Nut Bay, reopened since 2020, delivers a next-level experience, with chefs for hire, a marina, and more than 400 acres of wild space. Virgin Gorda also has a new property, The Inn at Cornucopia, an intimate adult-only getaway with five rooms and breakfast included.

Anegada, the outpost of the bunch, lying some 85 miles to the east of Virgin Gorda, is reachable via ferry from Tortola and Virgin Gorda, a 7-minute flight from Tortola, private sailboat or motoryacht charter. It’s where the annual Anegada Lobster Festival is held annually on the weekend of American Thanksgiving in November. Foodies are encouraged to give the turkeys a break and head to the Anegada Lobster Fest. This event brings together unique outdoor activities, including an island-wide scavenger hunt, plus culinary celebrations highlighting the delicate flavor of this Caribbean favorite. Come for Anegada Lobster Fest to indulge in the best lobsters anywhere and stay for the off-the-grid escapism of this nature-forward isle. Here you’ll find some of the Caribbean’s most rustic and unique accommodations at Anegada Beach Club, where thatched-roof palapas offer a glamping experience steps from a white-sand beach. This resort may be rustic, but it’s not without pampering: The on-site pool bar and grill serves local favorites, including conch fritters, blackened fish tacos, and an Anegada-style pizza with lobster, bacon and sweet peppers.

Heading back west to the backside of Tortola, facing the Atlantic, you’ll find the island of Jost Van Dyke. Easily the most popular day trip among boaters, it’s known for its gently sloping white-sand beaches and epic beach bars, including Soggy Dollar Beach Bar on White Bay, the center of the daytime action. The drink of choice is the Painkiller cocktail, mixing together rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, topped with fresh grated nutmeg. Grab lunch—the menu includes a Caribbean lobster roll, a mahimahi wrap, burgers and veggie burgers—and spend the day meeting fellow travelers, tossing a football or frisbee in the gentle surf, or playing the ever-so-addictive ring game. If you’re having too much fun, you don’t have to leave. Stay the night at The Hideout—a new boutique seven-villa resort—a high-end experience on White Bay, or bed down at White Bay Villas, with 20 units offering traditional Caribbean style and unbeatable sunset views.

In between the main islands are several private-island resorts and endless secluded beaches.

Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, a little hop to the north of Tortola, is an upscale boutique hotel known for a two-tier pool with a waterslide, 55 marina slips, and the clifftop Ixora Spa, which is also open to non-hotel guests.

Saba Rock Resort has a vibe all its own. A stone’s throw from Virgin Gorda and the BEYC, this restaurant and hotel, reopened in 2021, offers a fresh, clean surf style at the hotel, with rooms right on the water where you can tie up your paddleboard or other boat. Many people also come for an elevated dining experience, sitting overwater while tucking into sushi, mussels served with anchovy butter and paprika mousse, or lamb with blue cheese and truffle sauce.

There’s a lot to see, taste and experience in the British Virgin Islands. With any visit, you’ll not only find a hidden gem of a beach or snorkel spot that becomes a quick favorite that you know you’ll return to, but you’ll also happen by a restaurant or resort that you can’t wait to try next time. It’s the sort of place where your list of what to explore only grows with each trip to these islands.

The post Choose Your Own British Virgin Islands Getaway appeared first on Islands.

When snorkeling becomes a passion, a quick excursion off a resort beach or a crowded boat tour to a generic site isn’t enough. Avid snorkeling enthusiasts want pristine reefs away from the crowds, where ideal conditions and diverse ecosystems provide hours of in-water enjoyment. This is exactly what they find at Wakatobi Resort.  

Wakatobi is a beachfront oasis located on a small island in Indonesia’s Southeast Sulawesi region, home to some of the world’s most pristine and biodiverse coral reefs. The resort is surrounded by a private marine preserve widely known as a premier diving destination. But unlike some scuba-centric meccas, Wakatobi is equally attractive to avid snorkelers. 

To understand Wakatobi’s appeal to snorkelers, you don’t need to look beyond the beach. Directly in front of the resort, a swath of shallow water stretches for more than a mile to the left and right of the dive center. This is the famous House Reef, which has been named the world’s No. 1 shore dive.

The House Reef encompasses several hundred acres of sand flats, grass beds and patch reefs that hold thousands of unique species of marine life, from fascinating subjects like grazing sea turtles to treasured finds such as pygmy seahorses and pipefish. Snorkelers have 24-hour access to this shallow-water playground, with easy entry from the beach or the resort’s jetty. Because the House Reef is both easily accessible and monitored by Wakatobi’s attentive staff, it is an excellent option for novice snorkelers and children alike.

Snorkelers can also take advantage of Wakatobi’s taxi boat service. This fleet of small launches carries guests to and from the more distant areas of the House Reef.

The shallows of the House Reef extend some 200 feet from shore, at which point the marine landscape suddenly plummets into the ocean’s depths. Here, steep coral- and sponge-encrusted slopes and ocean walls transport snorkelers into an entirely different world, where creatures such as frogfish, stonefish, crocodilefish, blue-ringed octopus, moray eels, blue-spotted stingrays, ghost pipefish, shrimp and goby pairs can be seen along the upper lip of the drop-off.

The resort’s jetty is a great place to kick off snorkeling adventures on the House Reef because it provides easy access to the water regardless of tide conditions and shelters a wide variety of marine life. It’s not uncommon to see giant clams and colorful anemones around the jetty, and the clear water provides unparalleled views of the upper rim of the reef.

Snorkelers have been known to devote entire days to exploring the House Reef, but that is just the beginning of Wakatobi’s appeal to snorkelers. One of the defining characteristics of many dive sites within the resort’s marine preserve is a dramatic reef profile that begins in water less than 6 feet deep, then plummets into the depths in a series of slopes and walls. This juxtaposition of shallow and deep terrains creates unique opportunities for snorkelers. Rather than being consigned to a separate boat that visits a limited range of sites, snorkelers at Wakatobi are welcomed aboard the resort’s fleet of spacious dayboats, with access to more than two dozen sites where reefs begin in the shallows.

When divers and snorkelers share the same boat, it creates unique opportunities for couples and families. A diver with a snorkeling partner can enjoy the same site, with one staying shallow while the other goes deep. Young snorkelers can enjoy shallow reefs in the company of a parent or one of the resort’s attentive dive guides while other members of the family dive on the same site. Often the snorkelers are able to see the divers descend in the clear, sunlit waters.

One of the most popular nearby snorkeling destinations is Turkey Beach, about a half-mile south of the resort and accessible by either water taxi or dive boat. The primary reason guests flock to Turkey Beach is its resident population of majestic sea turtles, which can often be spotted right along the edge of the reef’s drop-off, along with eagle rays and humphead parrotfish.

Exceptional in-water experiences are just one of the reasons why snorkelers love Wakatobi. Ashore, guests enjoy a true tropical island getaway, with picturesque Indonesian-style bungalows nestled into a beachfront coconut grove, and luxurious private villas perched on the shore to deliver sweeping ocean views.

Wakatobi’s hospitality team takes great pride in delivering personalized five-star service and warm welcomes. For team members, it is a point of pride to anticipate guest needs and exceed expectations by going above and beyond. The resort is also family-friendly, with dedicated nanny services and a stimulating children’s program. 

In addition to snorkeling and diving, guests can enjoy watersports such as stand-up paddleboards and kayak tours along the coast. Seasonal trade winds create an opportunity to learn the sport of kiteboarding, and Wakatobi has created a dedicated kiting center, providing equipment, instruction and support for everyone from first-time kiters to experts.

Land activities include hikes on nature trails surrounding the resort, bird-watching sessions, village tours on nearby islands, and cultural activities such as Indonesian cooking classes. There is an on-site spa offering a range of massage services and treatments, a library and lounge, and available internet and phone services for those who need to stay in touch with the outside world.

Mealtime is a particular favorite at Wakatobi. The resort’s dining room provides beach and water views that create a relaxed atmosphere. The culinary team is known for creating exceptional menus that showcase a tempting range of both international and Indonesian cuisines. In addition, the chefs are happy to fulfill special requests and can accommodate a range of special dietary needs. As an added treat, Wakatobi has a dedicated team of pastry chefs that concoct mouth-watering culinary confections daily.

Another highlight of daily life at Wakatobi is the stunning sunsets, which are best viewed from the iconic Jetty Bar located at the far end of the resort’s pier. It’s the ideal place to enjoy an evening libation while watching the sun sink below the water. 

A final reason why Wakatobi appeals to both divers and snorkelers is the convenience of travel. Unlike many remote island destinations in the Indo-Pacific region, getting to Wakatobi doesn’t require long layovers and multiple land, sea and air connections. When guests arrive at Bali’s international airport, they are greeted by members of the Wakatobi concierge team. All details of entry, arrival and baggage transfer are handled by the team as guests enjoy an overnight rest. The following morning, guests are escorted back to the airport to relax in a private lounge as they await a private guest flight that delivers them directly to Wakatobi’s airfield in about two and a half hours.

Interested in visiting Wakatobi Resort?

For those interested in experiencing Wakatobi Resort for themselves, we have fantastic news. The resort has recently reopened for year-round bookings. In addition, an excellent opportunity for avid snorkelers to experience the resort is with the Snorkeling Report’s Wakatobi excursion, which still has space available for its 2022 trip.

In addition to the impeccable service, amenities and gourmet dining provided to all guests, this excursion includes four days at preselected snorkel sites away from the resort and one guided night-snorkeling session on the Wakatobi House Reef.

You can learn more about the upcoming excursion here.

Contact the Wakatobi team directly at office@wakatobi.com or inquire here.

The post Why Wakatobi Resort is a Must-Visit for Avid Snorkelers appeared first on Islands.

When Richard Hokin arrived on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands 30 hours after Hurricane Irma passed on September 6, 2017, he wasn’t particularly shocked. He fully expected that his Bitter End Yacht Club had been destroyed. After all, the BVI island had endured a Category 5 storm with relentless 180 mph winds—and a storm surge that wiped out anything the gusts had spared. 

He was correct: What was essentially a pile of rubble greeted him where the resort, which had been in his family for 44 years, once stood. There was one surprising thing though. The oldest fleet member was missing. What had happened to the faithful boat that predated his family’s ownership of Bitter End, the one that was integral to its development in the early days and still loyally served the resort? Where was Reef Sampler? 

“The fact that the boat had disappeared was kind of mysterious because some of her superstructure had washed up on Prickly Pear Island, which is right next to us. But there was no sign of the boat,” Hokin says.

When Irma hit, Reef Sampler was approaching its 50th birthday. In need of a platform for fishing, diving, exploring and picnicking, the Hokin family commissioned the 34-foot downeast fiberglass hull from Webber’s Cove in Blue Hill, Maine, to be finished at Essex Boat Works in Connecticut. Named for the family’s favorite pastime in the vibrant Virgin Islands waters, Reef Sampler was delivered in 1969.

“She started out as our family’s just-messing-around boat in St. Thomas and eventually became the workhorse for Bitter End,” Hokin says. “She hauled most of the building materials from St. Thomas up to North Sound in the early days when we were just starting to remodel and expand, and then she was our principal source of fun there. We’d take off and go over to Anegada for the day and go diving or go out fishing. Our life really centered around the boat.”

Reef Sampler rode out Irma holding on to the heftiest mooring. As it turned out, it never let go. In early 2018, the UK Hydrographic Office, conducting its first BVI survey in nearly a century, discovered an anomaly in its soundings. Further investigation by Sunchaser Scuba revealed Reef Sampler’s hull, sitting neatly upright on the bottom of North Sound, still tied to the sunken mooring.

Abandoning the boat in this watery grave was never an option. “Next to me, she’s the oldest member of the Bitter End crew,” Hokin says as he readies for his 82nd birthday. “I wasn’t going to walk away from her—we’ve been together for over 50 years. How do you walk away from someone or something that’s been important to your life? And not just to my life but to the whole Bitter End lifestyle, which is what defines us.”

Using air bags, it was floated and dragged onto the beach. Then, Hokin had an idea.

“I have always had a bee in my bonnet about a beach bar—and that a boat would make a really cool beach bar. This was the opportunity. We’re starting from scratch [rebuilding Bitter End]. We had the boat, and the boat was integral to Bitter End’s story. I figured she’s worked hard for us for close to 50 years; let’s give her a place where she doesn’t have to work so hard and everybody can enjoy her.”

Now, Reef Sampler, freshly varnished and painted in its original hue, has pride of place on Marina Beach at Bitter End 2.0. On its foredeck is a navigation table with seating for 8; along its sheerline aft, there’s a bar for resting a drink; and within its cockpit is a fully equipped bar for serving. Above it floats tent fabric, shading patrons and protecting the boat from the weather.

It’s one of the new additions to the revived property. For the quiet reopening over the past holidays, everything a sailor needs was up and running, including the Quarterdeck Club with a panoramic second-floor lounge, the Watersports Shack, The Buoy Room a salty sailor’s bar , and an expanded provisioning market that also offers prepared foods and a full wine-and-spirits shop. Opening soon are two shore accommodations called Marina Lofts, which extend alluringly over the water, and two more restaurants will be ready to serve by spring. 

Re-imagined to be more closely aligned with Mother Nature, the new resort is both different and the same. “We knew we weren’t going to build an exact replica, but we’ve tried really hard to employ the character, vibe and lifestyle that define the place,” Hokin says. Nothing encapsulates this spirit better than a beach-bar boat that started life as a vehicle for just messing around on the water. 

It’s not the only physical reminder of the past. The major docks survived the storm, and bits of memorabilia salvaged from the debris are displayed among the new buildings—but Reef Sampler is perhaps its most evocative.

“I think a boat is pretty close to a living entity. After 70 years of messing around in boats, I’m absolutely sure boats have lives because they’ve treated me well at times and also have had a few tantrums,” Hokin says with a smile.

To learn more about the re-opening of Bitter End Yacht Club and stay up to date on new updates, visit beyc.com. To see more footage from Bitter End Yacht Club, follow them on YouTube.

The post A New Beginning for Bitter End appeared first on Islands.

At a time when people are looking to get back to the majesty of the Caribbean and experience adventure and excitement far away from the hustle and bustle of busier islands, Graham’s Place is the boutique resort that will check all your boxes. Rest and relaxation, action and thrills, good food, and great people—it can all be experienced on this spectacular Private Island located just off the coast of beautiful Guanaja, one of the Bay Islands of Honduras. (To give you an idea, there are 3 Bay Islands of Honduras. Roatan, Utila and Guanaja. Guanaja being the least travelled.)

Originally from the Cayman Islands, owner Graham Thompson moved to Honduras about 30 years ago for retirement, but he never lost his passion for hospitality. What started as a vacation spot for his family and friends soon became a popular destination for bone fishermen who quickly spread the word that this was no ordinary fishing lodge.

Because of a reputation for warmth and kindness, Graham’s Place has grown to become a Private Island experience unlike any other, offering all the perks without the private island prices.

Location is, of course, everything. Less than two miles from Guanaja, the least traveled of the Bay Islands, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous blue Caribbean water and stunning tropical greenery, all of which is begging to be explored. And with the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef close by, Graham’s Place is a wonderful choice for divers, snorkelers, and water enthusiasts of all varieties, ages, and experience levels.

That’s not to say you can’t stay on-site and also have an amazing time. You can stay as busy or do as little as you like, there is always something to check out. The list of activities offered here is staggering. Small groups, large groups, couples or individuals, there is something for everyone. For the fishing enthusiast there are half- and full-day deep sea fishing, bottom fishing and fly-fishing trips. If fishing is not your thing, escape to and explore captivating locations like Bonacca Cay to see where the locals live, go to school, go to church and more. Check out Michael’s Rock, where you can snorkel and then take a beautiful nature hike to a nearby waterfall. Or grab a tank or three and embark on the diving excursion of a lifetime, as there are over 50 breathtaking sites around Guanaja, including the Jado Trader wreck, Jim’s Silverlode, and Vertigo, which will impress all visitors with its breathtaking drop-offs.

At Graham’s Place, you can snorkel at the house reef, take a spin in the resort’s kayaks or take a paddle on a paddle board and go exploring relax on the Instagram-worthy beaches and marvel at the sunsets, or all of the above. It is a great place for just wandering through the nature trail, bird watching or seeing some of the local animals scampering around. Take a walk out on the foot path to the reef and see some great aquatic life. It is also one of the most amazing places to go stargazing on the quiet beautiful nights.

When it comes to accommodations, Graham’s Place boasts 16 hotel rooms (each with two double beds), four villas (with three double beds), four efficiency rooms, and two one-bedroom suites. Every room leads you right out to the beach with a view of the beach and the majestic mountains of Guanaja. there are plenty of perks to make guests feel like they’re right at home.

And at a time when things aren’t quite ordinary, this Private Cay is an extraordinary alternative for people who need to reschedule those lost birthdays, weddings, and milestone moments.

Graham and his staff like to tell guests, “Keep this place in mind, a better place is hard to find.” And once you’ve experienced all Graham’s Place has to offer, you’ll most definitely believe it.

For more information go to https://grahamsplace.ky/

The post An Adventure Unlike Any Other Awaits at Graham’s Place appeared first on Islands.

On an all-inclusive yacht charter vacation in St. Martin, you’ll experience almost unlimited options of what to do and what to see. You can cruise to your choice of 15 satellite islands, or even venture to two nearby countries— Anguilla or St. Barts.

This type of vacation can take you virtually anywhere you like. Grab a mooring buoy, then take your boat’s dinghy—every Moorings yacht comes with one—right up on the beach and start exploring.

This style of vacation is a new adventure for many experienced travelers. Unlike a resort, chartering a yacht gives you the opportunity to see so much more of your destination, and you can stay at a different location every night! An added bonus? You never have to leave your belongings behind – unless of course you’re venturing ashore.

St. Martin is one of the top destinations in the Caribbean for yachting vacations, thanks to the variety of attractions available in one destination and how easy it is to get there. Plus, the journey is easy, thanks to consistent winds ideal for sailing. Wherever you choose to go, a chartered yacht vacation can take you further.

MUST-SEE SPOTS

When you book your weeklong charter, the hardest part will be narrowing down your list of must-see spots. If your vacation goal is to hit as many spots as you can, you might want to consider a power yacht, which takes you there faster. If your goal is an easy, relaxing coast across the scenic landscape with a couple excursions penciled in, consider a chartered sailboat.

When it comes to St. Martin, of course, you’ll want to start with the island of St. Martin itself. This destination is special in that it caters to those who want culture, fine dining and nightlife—and to those who want solitude and escapism. St. Martin has two sides: the Dutch side to the south, and the French side to the north.

When you aren’t enjoying the gourmet, locally inspired meals prepared onboard by your Moorings chef, the town of Grand Case, on the French side, is home to some of the Caribbean’s most renowned dining. Bistrot Caraibes is a standout for its impeccably prepared French fare, from escargot to lobster that you select yourself. La Villa Restaurant is another highlight for its three-course prix fixe meal, with highlights such as a marlin carpaccio with a Caribbean Creole sauce and the Black Angus beef fillet in a foie gras sauce.

Other highlights of the island include touring Topper’s Rhum distillery, Fort Louis in the French side town of Marigot, and of course, the beaches—with a list of 36 world-class choices.

VENTURE BEYOND

On a yacht charter vacation, you can venture beyond the main island.

One top pick among yachters is Tintamarre Island, located off the northeastern tip of St. Martin. This national park with picturesque beaches and coral reefs favorited by sea turtles is a day-tour destination—which means it clears out by the afternoon. You can choose to reverse the schedule, perhaps having espresso and pastries in the French town of Marigot, before sailing over to enjoy the afternoon and then the evening sunset in relative solitude.

Just a two-hour sail to the north and you could explore Anguilla, famous for its idyllic beaches, shopping and reggae music beach bars. For a truly quiet escape, consider the Prickly Pear Cays. These uninhabited islands suit those who want to play or relax on wide, white-sand beaches. There is nothing else in the vicinity, which means you can content yourself playing castaway—swimming, laying in a hammock, snorkeling, and settling into the rhythms of nature.

If you’re up for a three-hour sail, you can be on St. Barts. For many, this exclusive island seems out of reach pricewise, but visiting via yacht puts this destination within reach—whether you simply want to overnight or spend a few days there.

READY, SET, SAIL

There’s so much to see, and choosing St. Martin as your starting point allows you to pack more into your getaway. This island’s airport is big enough to receive nonstop flights from most major U.S. cities, so you’re not wasting time with layovers. Instead, you arrive and The Moorings crew takes it from there. They acquaint you with your new home at sea for the next week, and off you go, worry-free and ready to start exploring.

Whatever charter destination you choose, keep in mind that there are no bad itineraries. The beauty of a yacht charter vacation is that you can, well, go where the wind takes you. You can be as planned or spontaneous as you like. Besides, anything you don’t get a chance to see can be high on your list for your next visit.

To see a detailed, 7-Day St. Martin sailing itinerary, and to learn more about realizing your own unforgettable yacht charter vacation in the world’s most exquisite destinations, visit moorings.com.

The post Explore the Blue Waters of St. Martin by Private Yacht appeared first on Islands.

Tahiti—The very word itself conjures images of lush green hillsides, calm turquoise lagoons and over-water bungalows. It is easily one of the most exotic and sought-after vacation destinations anywhere in the world, and with good reason. So for those that have this French Polynesian paradise on their travel radar, here is everything you need to know to bring your very own Tahiti adventure to life in the best way possible…

The Society Islands of French Polynesia, of which Tahiti is the largest, were unknown to western civilization until the 1760’s. They are some of the most remote islands in the world, renowned for their beauty and culture, and home to a native population of expert seafaring Polynesians.

Spend Your Vacation Days Wisely

What better way to explore everything these islands have to offer than to discover them by boat, at your own pace, on your own schedule, and in the company of those you care about most? Yacht charter companies like The Moorings make this kind of tailor-made travel experience possible by offering private sailing yachts staffed with a professional skipper and all-inclusive Crewed yachts that come with a licensed captain and a personal gourmet chef. You and your loved ones can select the exact yacht and charter option that suits your needs and vacation style.

How to Get There

For North-Americans, a mere 8-hour flight from Los Angeles will transport you to the main island of Tahiti, and a short puddle-jump later you will arrive in Raiatea, where The Moorings marina in French Polynesia is located. Once on board your own private yacht, you embark on a personalized itinerary and are free to explore these wild and exotic islands, each with its own unique flair.

Top Places to Visit in French Polynesia

From the starting point of your picture-perfect cruising vacation, there are four main islands within easy reach:

Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, behind Tahiti, and is the administrative center of the region. Famous for its vanilla plantations, it is an excellent place to explore on-land and immerse yourself in local culture.

Taha’a is an underwater paradise, featuring coral gardens unlike anything you’ve ever laid eyes on. On the northwest side of the island, there is a narrow, shallow channel with a gentle current that will carry you effortlessly across the pristine reef below, which is home to thousands of tropical fish. When you are done gliding through this natural wonder, simply walk back to the beginning to enjoy it over and over again!

Bora Bora is the most well-known Society Island, with its iconic bungalows hovering above the sea and majestic views of Mt. Otemanu clearly visible for miles in any direction. Upon mooring in Point Raititi, you can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters with manta rays, stingrays, and friendly reef sharks. Plus, plan to visit a local pearl farm, where you can dive for a hand-picked oyster shell and take home a precious black pearl of your own.

Huahine is located about 20 miles east of Raiatea. Here, natural beauty reigns supreme, as the island of Huahine is less populated and less-traveled than its Polynesian neighbors. It is a fantastic stop for any Tahiti sailing itinerary with fabulous snorkeling conditions and secluded anchorages ideal for sun-soaked relaxation.

To see a detailed, 7-Day Tahiti sailing itinerary, and to learn more about realizing your own unforgettable yacht charter vacation in the world’s most exquisite destinations, visit moorings.com.

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1. Dream Big
Before you get bogged down in wedding planning, let yourself dream big. This is your chance for your vision to come true.

Do you want to say your vows on a sandy beach at sunset or in the majesty of secluded mountains? What does your ideal setting look like, and where in the world is it? The possibilities are endless, and if an exotic location is what you prefer, DestinationWeddings.com can help you through all the options.

2. Sign Up with a Destination Wedding Service
Pro tip: Sign up with a destination wedding service, like DestinationWeddings.com, before you wade any further into planning your big day.

Why? You’ll get to work with a Destination Wedding Specialist, who is an expert and has experience with all destinations, resort venues and budgets. They can even help you save money through incredible deals they negotiate with their resort partnerships. And when you work with an all-inclusive resort, you can get some incredible, customizable wedding packages for a fraction of the price of an at-home wedding.

You’ll get white glove service for every aspect of wedding planning, and you’ll feel so much better knowing there’s a destination wedding planning pro who can answer every question for you or your guests.

3. Select Your Destination and Set Your Wedding Date
By signing up with DestinationWeddings.com, you’ll be matched with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist, who will be with you through the whole planning process. Working with your specialist, you can discuss your requirements and review all the resorts in your dream country until you find one that’s the perfect fit. Maybe you want a chapel or a gazebo as your setting or simply the beach. You’ll know when the fit feels perfect.

Once you decide on a destination, resort and date, your specialist will do all the coordinating with resort, and then the fun starts

4. Take Care of the Details
Customize your big day with the help of the resort venue and your destination wedding specialist. Some brides like to plan a pre-wedding trip to the venue to see everything firsthand, but this isn’t necessary. It’s up to you.

Decide on everything from the ceremony site (venues often have a few you can choose from) to the menu, flowers, linen colors, signature cocktails, photographer, and much more.

Let the resort and the wedding specialist help with this. For example, the resort can schedule airport shuttles or taxis for you and your guests so no one has to worry about transit after getting off the plane.

This is where you get to show your personality and taste, so be creative to come up with a celebration that reflects your style! Check out some resort inspiration at DestinationWeddings.com.

5. Get Your Wedding Website Running
A wedding website is a must these days. But it’s really important when you’re hosting a destination wedding.

Your guests will have a lot of questions — about everything from suggested attire to hotel amenities and dietary restrictions.

Make it easy for your guests to plan by putting all the need-to-know info on your wedding website. Include information on transportation from the airport, what’s included with accommodations, wedding activities, and commonly asked questions.

This way, guests can get the info they need without overwhelming your inbox. DestinationWeddings.com provides a customizable wedding website, and it’s free!

6. Pack Smart
Once your big day is almost there, pack smart to make sure you have everything you need.

In addition to your wedding outfit — don’t forget about shoes, undergarments, makeup, and accessories — you’ll need clothing for rehearsal dinner, brunch, and other events. If you’re going on your honeymoon right after the wedding, take along everything you’ll need for that.

Toss sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, and other sundries in your bag. These things tend to cost extra at resorts, so bringing your own is one way to save money. While this sounds like a lot, many brides actually find it’s easier to plan a destination wedding because there are so many helping hands. Relax, trust the resort staff (who does this every day) and focus on celebrating your romance with your closest friends and family.   Thinking of a destination wedding, but unsure where to start planning? Here’s everything you need to know to have a DestinationWeddings.com.

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Exploring hidden worlds. Gliding effortlessly underwater. Encountering astonishing creatures. Marveling at a rainbow of colors on a teeming coral reef. Probing mysterious shipwrecks. Navigating among an underwater forest of kelp. Venturing where few humans have gone before. To outsiders, scuba diving might seem too good to be true. But all of these over-the-top superlatives and worn-out clichés are real. It’s simply that amazing. And within your reach.

Humans have fantasized about what lies below the water’s surface since our first ancient ancestor grew brave enough to plunge their head underwater. Today, there’s an endless array of wonders awaiting below the surface. And besides the creatures great and small that inhabit the seas — we get it all to ourselves. All you have to do to join in the fun is learn how to blow bubbles.

Getting certified to dive is fun and exciting. While advances in dive technology continue to change the equipment and manner in which training is provided, one thing has remained a constant – good training starts with good instruction. The National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) is known and respected as an industry leader in scuba training across the globe.

Becoming a NAUI Scuba Diver means earning not only a bona fide, globally-accepted certification to dive, but also developing the skills and understanding to be both competent and confident on your own in a variety of underwater environments. With the motto of “Dive Safety Through Education,” NAUI Instructors are empowered with the freedom to customize their courses specifically to how their students learn best, both in the classroom and in the water. Every NAUI Scuba Diver course includes rescue training, so you can be assured that you’ll know how to safely deal with a wide variety of challenges. And because NAUI is one of the dive industry’s largest non-profit certification agencies, you can be assured their focus is on providing you with some of the most thorough and comprehensive training in the industry. In fact, part of the NAUI Credo is the “Loved One Concept,” which means that an individual should not be qualified as a NAUI Instructor unless those certifying them would allow that instructor to teach their own loved ones to dive. Plus, NAUI Instructors assign that same measure to every diver they train – would they allow their divers to dive with someone they love?

Diving will open wild new worlds to explore and help you grow confidence like you’ve never known before. Developing the skills needed to dive is an exercise of both the mind and the body — not to mention the heart. As your mastery grows, so will your courage. With each new personal limit shattered, you’ll become bolder and better equipped to tackle whatever life throws at you. And if you’re learning to dive with friends or loved ones, the rare and powerful experiences you’ll share will strengthen your relationships like few other activities can.

Because diving is truly an international community, completing your NAUI Scuba Diver certification will initiate you into a global tribe of bold, eco-conscious adventurers of every age, ethnicity and lifestyle. At exciting travel destinations around the planet, you’ll find like-minded divers who share a priceless secret — the ability to explore the underwater world. You won’t get this type of camaraderie on a golf course or in a softball league. Deep bonds are forged at every depth and common ground is easy to find underwater. You may begin your dive as strangers, but you surface as friends. From the United States to Asia, from the Caribbean to the South Pacific, from Australia to Europe, and from South American to Africa, divers speak the common language of scuba. And it won’t take you long to discover that divers are often the most interesting people in the room.

There’s no good reason to put off becoming a scuba diver. You’ll find NAUI dive centers in nearly every country, so chances are there’s an experienced, enthusiastic NAUI Instructor in your own community primed and ready to show you the way. They’re keen to answer any and all questions you might have about training, equipment and travel. Finding the right instructor to suit your goals and learning style is as easy as picking up the phone to have a chat, checking out the NAUI website, or dropping by the shop for a look around. There’s no obligation in asking questions or getting online and giving the eLearning a try (for NAUI’s Try Scuba and Passport Scuba Diver Programs) to see what it’s all about. Divers are always psyched to talk about diving. And you’ll quickly discover that your local dive store is a cool haven of culture where you’ll find kindred spirits to build your knowledge, blow your mind and get you started.

The underwater world is waiting to wow you with wild and wonderful sights and sensations. Once you experience the thrill and excitement of scuba diving, you’ll wonder why you ever waited. Become a NAUI scuba diver and unlock experiences that will change your life forever.

Learn More at NAUI.org & Contact Us

The post Become a NAUI Scuba Diver and Open Wild New Worlds appeared first on Islands.

Life may not come with a reset button, but an undocked vacation without limits could be the next best thing. If you’ve ever looked into going on a Crewed yacht charter – with just you and your friends and family going island-hopping on a private yacht – you know that having a knowledgeable captain and personal gourmet chef on board is just one of the many things that make this tailor-made travel experience so unique.

A private Crewed yacht charter offers a number of benefits that you simply won’t receive on a commercial cruise line or during a deluxe resort stay, ultimately delivering a one-of-a-kind vacation that is all-inclusive and all about you. Here are some of the things that will make your on-the-water passage extra special and memorable…

Leave Your Worries on the Dock
Prior to departure, your pre-selected crew will contact you to discuss your meal and activity preferences, and prepare and provision your yacht to ensure optimal comfort for every guest in your group. Everything from the food & beverage selection to the fully-stocked bar and onboard water toys (foam noodles, snorkeling gear, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, fishing equipment, etc.) will be tended to before you arrive.

Follow Your Own Schedule
Unlike large cruise ships, there are no pre-set departure dates or durations – so when you go and how long you stay on your island-hopping escape is entirely up to you. Set your sights on one of 15 top-rated travel destinations in the laid-back Caribbean, the enchanting Mediterranean, or explore somewhere more exotic like the Far East, South Pacific, or the Indian Ocean’s Seychelles. No matter where you choose to undock, enjoy the flexibility of a cruising itinerary personalized to suit your needs and desires. With each sunrise comes a new story to unfold, with each sunset, more unforgettable memories to take home.

Access More Points of Interest
Escape the crowd. Your private yacht can effortlessly accommodate the intimate coves and pristine beaches that large cruise ships cannot. Plus, Crewed charters are allowed to access hidden harbors and secluded anchorages that even self-skippered yachts aren’t able to visit. Think of this vacation as your all-access pass to paradise—where the air is fresher, the views are unfiltered, and the distractions are minimal. This is your chance to get back to nature in the most up-close and personal way possible.

Don’t Stress About Packing
In the company of those you’re most comfortable with, you don’t have to worry so much about “dressing to impress”, which makes packing for an all-inclusive Crewed charter vacation less stressful. And since you’ll dine on board for most meals, you get to decide what the proper dress code is. You are on vacation after all!

Customize Your Menu
Are you allergic to nuts? Traveling with a “picky-eater”? Does somebody in your group follow a gluten-free diet? With a personal gourmet chef on board to prepare meals from your pre-selected menu, you can dine worry-free knowing that any food allergies, hard-to-please palates, and dietary restrictions in your private charter party have already been accounted for and accommodated. All meals and spirits are included with a Crewed yacht, which means you can soak up the sun while sipping on your favorite happy hour cocktail and avoid the “what’s for dinner?” debate altogether. Just sit back and relax—reservations not required.

A Passion for the Sea
Vacationing on a Crewed Sailing or Power catamaran goes way beyond just “taking a cruise”. The seasoned crew members come from all around the world, live aboard the yacht, and greet you with the warmest of welcomes. No two crews are alike, but they all share a passion for the sea, and exceptional hospitality. The combination of your crew’s local expertise and attention to detail is what makes this travel experience so unique and memorable.

When you’re surrounded by breathtaking coastlines from the deck of your own superb cruising vessel, it feels like you’re living in complete harmony with the world. So go ahead – bring your fantasy retreat to life by way of an unforgettable Crewed yacht charter vacation and capture something extraordinary. Paradise awaits!

Learn more and book your charter at Moorings.com.

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