Book MAKAYABELLA for the 2012 Bequia Mount Gay Music Festival (January 26th – 29th) receive complimentary tickets to both the Friday and Saturday night performances!!

Outstanding performances by local, regional and international artists make this music festival a “must see” fixtures on the season’s calendar.

Based around Dana Gillespie and her London Blues Band’s “One Night Only” performance on Friday night, this event, now extended on Bequia to four days, has received rave reviews and is a foretaste of the Mustique Blues Festival which continues for a further two weeks.

The main venue is 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 finish off the weekend.

John and Sue have taken guests to this even in the past and it has been a very big hit and a great focal point for a relaxing charter in the Grenadines!

Start or end your charter around Festival dates and  MAKAYABELLA  will provide the festival tickets free of charge.  Music lover or not, the event promises a great time for all!

Book your flights into St. Vincent or to Canouan (where John and Sue will waiting to escort you to the yacht) or to Barbados where commuter flights are available to transport you to St. Vincent or take you directly to Bequia.

Remember, for a party of four or more, it can be cheaper – and more convenient – to charter a plane privately from Barbados! Visit www.svgair.com for more details.

It’s no secret – The U.S. and British Virgin Islands have been the premier yachting playground for decades!  Protected waters, white sand beaches, gentle trade winds and the best charter value of any winter destination entice INTERPAC clients year after year!  Other favorite Caribbean Islands include Antigua/Barbuda and the Grenadines. This year we have more than 200 crewed yachts in the Caribbean – both power and sail – in all price ranges.

For those who are keen to expand their horizons and venture further afield we offer the following …

FRENCH ANTILLES
Guadeloupe … St. Barts… Martinique …Les Saintes … Marie Galante … The French Caribbean Islands have so much to offer … West Indian culture with a European Flair!  Hike through lush volcanic rain forests, swim in underwater parks, explore historical forts, enjoy duty free shopping, and dine on French and Creole cuisine in world class restaurants.

BAJA AND THE SEA OF CORTEZ
Sheltered by a 900-Mile Peninsula, the Gulf of California is one of the richest bodies of water on earth.  Baja’s unspoiled frontier offers dozens of protected coves, unique desert islands, dramatic cliffs, secluded sandy beaches and pristine sapphire waters.  Proclaimed “the world’s aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau, the Sea of Cortez is a magnificent cruising destination for ecotourism.

MEXICAN RIVIERA
The sun-drenched Pacific Coastline from Mazatlan to Acapulco boasts world class marinas, pristine beaches, verdant jungle landscapes, lively nightlife and luxury resorts.  Spend your days fishing for dinner, kayaking in protected harbors, horseback riding, bartering with local craftsmen ashore or simply basking in the warm Mexican sunshine! 

SEYCHELLES
Far from home,  the spectacular Seychelles regularly rank on Top 10 travel lists.  Shimmering turquoise waters for snorkeling and water sports, bird watching, tropical hiking, giant tortoises, sport fishing, towering rock formations and starry nights come together to make the Seychelles a stunning delight.

MALDIVES
Acclaimed by some to have the clearest water on earth, the Maldives is another dream destination.  The area is composed of more than 1,000 atolls and islands and is famous for brilliant sunshine, pristine beaches and a diverse culture.   Rare underwater beauty,  and variety of marine life attract water enthusiasts worldwide.

THAILAND AND THE ADAMAN SEA
Southeast Asia is gaining in popularity as a top charter destination.  Alluring, exotic, and culturally diverse, it is a yachtsman’s paradise waiting to be discovered!  Experience dramatic limestone rocks, crystal clear lagoons, lush tropical vegetation, tranquil fishing villages, friendly locals, and tantalizing Thai cuisine.

MALAYSIA
Untouched by tourism, the Malaysia cruising area consists of hundreds of small islands offering stunning scenery, ancient rainforests, deserted beaches, culinary delights and the opportunity to experience first hand the timeless traditions of local villages.

Make this winter your most memorable … Contact us now to begin planning your own special getaway.  With the destinations above to entice you, the selection process begins.

THE BEST THINGS HAPPEN AT SEA! 

This brought to mind how much the charter industry has changed in the past 40 years, when a broker’s main concern was to find a safe and comfortable yacht with professional crew and good food.

Before Satellite, cell phones, email, skype, the web, twitter and facebook, communications were restricted to the single side band and VHF radios.  Clients left our office number with their family for emergencies and set off for a week of uninterrupted  pleasure and relaxation.  Any important or urgent messages were transmitted to the yacht through a marine operator.

Nowadays, most clients feel a strong need to be connected on their yacht vacation.  They may have an important conference call, want to watch a special sporting event, or stay in touch with their office or an ailing family member.  They may want to preplan their itinerary to secure dockage in advance or be sure their children can update friends on facebook.  Are their iPod connections in the staterooms?  How many movies are on board?  Play Stations for children?  Are there enough outlets to charge multiple net books, cell phones and digital cameras?

Now and again, some charter clients still ask that the crew hide TV screens and bring out old fashioned games like Scrabble and Monopoly.

Chartering in the 21st Century is still great fun — Just different!

Sometimes I wish for the days when charter guests boarded their yacht and took each day as it came: enjoying long laughter-filled meals, taking a turn at the helm, helping set the sails, and – to quote Mark Twain – “Explore, Dream, Discover”.

Other days, it is such a relief to know we are all connected.  I recall an incident more than 30 years ago when a California family arrived on Tortola on a very late flight and forgot their charter contract and boarding letter.   All hotels were closed and there was no access to a telephone.  Their taxi drove from marina to marina looking for the yacht while the crew waited anxiously at the appointed spot.  I was horrified to learn after the charter that the family slept on a sandy beach that night.

Thanks to modern technology, an adventure like this need never be repeated!

Frequently ranked as one of the world’s top romantic destinations, Barbuda and Antigua have earned their accolades by presenting couples with the perfect concoction for an unforgettable vacation: ultimate seclusion, seemingly untouched pink sand, luxurious accommodations and an intoxicatingly tranquil atmosphere.

Barbuda offers an especially intimate experience for newlyweds, as the island is only accessible via aircraft or boats. This presents an ideal situation for paparazzi-prone individuals like Prince William and his bride, but also delivers an unforgettable getaway for any romancing couple.

Planning a wedding in Antigua promises to create memories to last a lifetime. Engaged couples can organize anything from an idyllic beachside ceremony at Half Moon Bay to a traditional wedding held in one of Antigua’s elegant churches. The relaxed governmental policies regarding wedding certificates make it simple and convenient to arrange an island wedding.

If you’re looking into the possibility of a Caribbean wedding, now is the best time to make preparations for a memorable event in Antigua or Barbuda. The tourism campaign surrounding Prince William’s nuptials ensures that couples can expect to be treated like royalty during their big event. We may not all be celebrities, but a wedding in Antigua promises to make you feel like one.

Contributed by guest blogger Katie Boue

Call or email today for a sample yachting itinerary for Antigua and Barbuda!

View our Caribbean yachts.

Belize has the second-longest barrier reef in the world – an amazing charter destination for divers.  TRUE NORTH has limited availability in Belize between mid-May and late July 2011.

John & Maxine White will then take TRUE NORTH south to Panama where the yacht is available for charters in Bocas del Toro & the San Blas Islands through October 2011.     

Captain Whitey is a dive instructor,  partner Max is a wonderful chef as well as a dive master. Their third crew member makes service even better! 

And more good news …
TRUE NORTH has just reduced her rate by $5,000/week, so they now charter for $24,500/6 guests or $26,500/8 including SCUBA for certified divers. Only fine wines, local taxes or taxes, dockage and communications are extra.

 
Capable Captain Juergen Mais charted our route to Carlisle bay as the crew prepared the yacht for departure.              

Once out of Falmouth Harbor, we joined several other participating yachts, including the impressive Perini Navi, MALTESE FALCON, flying her signature square sails.

A long, leisurely swim in the 84-degree water of Carlisle Bay was a perfect way to build an appetite for the five-course feast presented by the talented young chef de cuisine, Alexander Frey.

 A stunning sunset to end a perfect day …   

For me, the biggest pleasure of any boat show is to be able to spend time with crew — The energy behind a perfect charter! 

Some pull out all the stops at evening Yacht Hops to show their enthusiasm.  The “can do” crew of THE LADY J hosted an “unbirthday party” and entertained guests in great Alice in Wonderland costumes.  THE LADY J has a fun crew, a great chef and water sports galore!

THE LADY J - Paul Clarke & Crew

The newly-launched Discovery 67, MORE MAGIC, is an exquisite sloop designed by Ron Holland and crewed by the professional and friendly team of Alex and Emma Whicher.  Both are passionate sailors, enthusiastic and multi-talented!

MORE MAGIC - Alex and Emma Whicher

BLUE ATTRACTION is an older yacht that has been well cared for and upgraded inside and out … The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable thanks to her wonderful, good natured crew headed by her highly-qualified captain, Mark Millward.

BLUE ATTRACTION - Mark Milward & Crew

And speaking of cheerful crew, I was delighted to find the crew of the brand new 180′ Vitters, MARIE, in the galley laughing and working together as they cleared up after a guest luncheon.  MARIE is a stunning traditionally-crafted yacht with sophisticated modern technology.  Features such as nautical antiques, a baby grand piano, and actual working cannons capture the true romance of the sea.

MARIE - Happy Crew sharing galley duty!

On a much smaller scale, the Oyster 72, BILLY BUDD, has one of the nicest crews you can find!  The extremely talented captain, Raciel, and Italian chef, Margherita make wonderful hosts.  They have delighted INTERPAC clients in the past and are joined this year by a third crew from Italy, Giacomo.

BILLY BUDD - Raciel, Margherita, Giacomo

Another great find this year is the 132′ Amels, MONTE CARLO.  Seven capable crew pamper eight guests year round in the sunny Caribbean.  MONTE CARLO is one of the few motoryachts offering SCUBA for licensed divers, a new 30′ tender for sportfishing enthusiasts, a great chef, and on-board massage therapist!

MONTE CARLO - Captain Vince Lauro head top crew

I was also intrigued by the well-traveled crew of CARY ALI, their international menus, and plans for exploring the St. Lawrence River next summer.  The yacht feels much larger than her 86′, has zero speed stabilizers, and outdoor Jacuzzi.

CARY ALI - Adam, Amber, Sally

The new crewmembers on SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS are talented, warm and friendly.  Jean Laurent is highly experienced sailor, a kayak instructor, knowledgeable with wines, and has a great sense of humor.  Barbara is a great chef and comes with 13 years experience in yachting.

SWALLOWS AMAZONS - Jean Laurent & Barbara

Please call any time for more information on these and other great crews … One of them will be perfectly suited to host your next yacht vacation! 

WELCOME ABOARD - Join the Fun!

Luxury Motor yacht EL JEFE was built by Derecktor Shipyards in 1990. In 2007, she underwent a 3.5 million dollar full interior and exterior refit … Her inviting and fun furnishings compliment the attractive interior decor. Water sports equipment on board include a 15′ Caribe dinghy with a 60 HP engine, water skis, snorkel gear, and two Seadoos.  Weather permitting, EL JEFE  also tows a 28’ Mako equipped for snorkeling, diving, deep sea fishing, waterskiing, and other shore side activities.

This special offer applies to a maximum of 8 guests and you can choose between two of the Caribbean’s top charter destinations for this great summer getaway:

The fabulous islands of St. Martin and St. Barts combine an irresistible allure of French and Dutch heritages.  Sophisticated and chic, they offer superb cuisine, cosmopolitan night life, duty free boutiques, and marinas galore!  Just a short cruise away, nearby islands are filled with natural vistas, beautiful sandy cays, charming villages, and warm turquoise waters.

Or choose the Virgin Islands, one of the most desirable cruising destinations in the world offering scenic anchorages, historic sites, lively beach bars, and superb snorkeling. 

SNORKELING - VIRGIN ISLANDS

Day dreaming lately of warm winds and sand between your toes?  Shake off the winter cold this Spring with an affordable yacht charter to the Caribbean Islands! 

ENJOYING BEACH WATER SPORTS FROM CARIBBEAN MOTORYACHT

Exciting sailing… Exotic islands… Sandy beaches… West Indian culture… Historical forts… Duty free shopping… Lush vegetation… Hidden coves… 

Click for itinerary ideas in the Virgin Islands, Grenadines and French Antilles.  All-Inclusive Rates Start at $2,000.00 / Person / Week! 

CARIBBEAN BEACH

International World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. 

70% OF OUR PLANET IS COVERED BY WATER

 WATER AND LIFE ARE INSEPARABLE!

RELAX ...

DIVE IN ...

EXPLORE ...

CELEBRATE!

THE BEST THINGS HAPPEN AT SEA!