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!

The UNESCO protected DIOCLETIAN PALACE in Split’s old town is one of the most impressive cultural monuments in Europe. 

After exploring the medieval city, be sure to visit MARJAM HILL, easily reached by stone steps from the Riva.  From above you can admire the splendid views of the city and port.  Stop and enjoy a coffee at the cafe VIDILICA.  A visit Mestrovic Gallery near KASTELET BAY on southern slope of MARJAM HILL is also a must.

Split has many great restaurants , but  locals recommend  the newly trendy VELI VAROS district, where two charming Dalmatian restaurants,  VAROS and SPERUN, serve  excellent fresh cuisine.  Later, explore the maze of pedestrian streets founded by farmhands and fishermen in the late 17th century.

 My Croatian friends tell me that Split is known in the former Yugoslavia area as town with the most beautiful women…  Ladies, you will not believe how many shoe stores there are in Split!

Yacht ANNABEL II - Croatia Motoryacht

ANNABEL II is a beautiful new 97′ foot motor yacht built in 2009.  She has an outstanding crew and a great layout with a flexible configuration.

 Because ANNABEL II still has last minute availability before August 24, 2010, the owner is offering a 30% discount on her summer charter rate bringing this lovely yacht to only EUR 35,000 + expenses!

Some of her most exciting features include zero speed stabilizers, two alfresco dining areas, a deck Jacuzzi and an outstanding chef! 

MOTORYACHT ANNABEL II - INTERIOR

For more information on ANNABEL II visit  http://www.interpacyachtcharters.com/yachts-for-charter/annabel-ii

Click here to see why 2010 is a great year to visit Croatia!

WELCOME TO CROATIA

The DUBROVNIK SUMMER FESTIVAL is an international festival of music, theater and dance.  The unique ambience of the closed and open-air stages will host about 80 plays, ballets, operas, musical performances, literary events, exhibitions, poetry recitals – and more!

DUBROVNIK SUMMER FESTIVAL CELEBRATION - CROATIA

Croatia is a wonderful charter destination - one of the most indented shores of Europe with over a thousand islands. This spectacular coast offers a rich choice of safe sheltered ports and idyllic anchorages.  Explore this country of fascinating diversity, rich in history and culture.  And be sure to include a visit to include one of the events in DUBROVNIK’S SUMMER FESTIVAL!

CROATIA - DUBROVNIK AND LOCAL BEACH

For sample itineraries in Croatia, visit:  http://www.interpacyachts.com/croatia/index.html

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!

ROMANTIC ISLAND LAGOON

SURPRISE YOUR SPECIAL VALENTINE WITH A DREAM VACATION THIS YEAR!
A private yacht charter is a unique and special way to show how much you care.

In the words of Christopher Cross:
“It’s not far down to paradise … if the wind is right you can sail away and find tranquility … The canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see …”

For special yachts and destinations visit: http://www.interpacyachtcharters.com/yacht-selections and http://www.interpacyachts.com/

“THE BEST THINGS HAPPEN AT SEA!!

WELCOME TO INTERPAC’S FIRST BLOG POST!

We at INTERPAC YACHTS want to keep you up-to-date with all the latest charter fleet news including special rates, exotic destinations, featured yachts, photography tips, delicious charter recipes, and more.

We also invite input from you, our valued clients.   Let us know about a “must see” charter destination, your favorite anchorage or port, an incredible crew, or unforgettable meal on board …

To submit your personal photographs and favorite charter memories, write to bev@interpacyachts.com Be sure to include a description of the photo and if you wish to remain anonymous.  Otherwise, we will use your initials, city and state.

WE INVITE YOU TO DIVE IN AND ENJOY THE SPECIAL WORLD OF CHARTER YACHT VACATIONS!