VI Sailing Insider – March 2024

March 2024 VI Sailing Insider
CREWED INSIDER
BAREBOAT INSIDER
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
CLIENT REVIEWS
COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH
NEWS & EVENTS

Belize Crewed Charters: Why Sail in the Spring?

Why Belize in the Spring

Imagine yourself on an all-inclusive luxury yacht, basking in the glorious sunshine, with the wind in your hair and the pristine waters of Belize glistening around you. If this sounds like your idea of a perfect sailing vacation, then spring is one of the best times you should set sail in Belize.

Here’s why the spring months are the optimal time for an adventure-packed yet affordable luxury yacht charter experience:

BLISSFUL BREEZES

First and foremost, spring offers the most favorable weather conditions for sailing in Belize.

The delightful breezes and comfortable humidity levels make for a truly enjoyable and seamless sailing experience.

The clear horizons and refreshing cool evenings create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing yet exciting vacation on the water.

The winds averaging at around 15 to 20 knots from the east to northeast will have you effortlessly cruising through the stunning waters of Belize.

Catamaran Ranguana Cay Belize
Caye Caulker Reefs Belize

CLEAR HORIZONS

One of the other main draws of sailing in Belize during the spring is the exceptional visibility underwater.

The fresh upwelling of water makes for crystal clear conditions, perfect for snorkeling and exploring the breathtaking barrier and patch reefs.

It’s the ideal time to dive into an underwater world unlike any other, making your sailing experience in Belize truly unforgettable and magical.

SERENE SOLITUDE

In addition to the ideal sailing conditions, spring offers a sense of serene solitude on the waters of Belize.

With fewer tourists around during the post-Easter shoulder season, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the beauty of Belize without the crowds.

Imagine having the charming islands and stunning azure waters all to yourself, allowing you to truly connect with the natural and cultural wonders of this paradise.

Belize Caye Caulker
whale shark

SHARK WEEK

But the real icing on the cake is the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Whale Shark season, also known as Shark Week.

This natural wonder takes place from March to June, with the highest likelihood of sightings in April and May near Gladden Spit.

The opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unique and otherworldly experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Plus, with the highest likelihood of sightings being 2 days before a full moon and up to 10 days after, April and May offer the best chance to catch a glimpse of these amazing animals.

So, if you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime sailing experience, Belize in the spring is the perfect choice for your all-inclusive luxury yacht charter vacation.

The combination of favorable sailing conditions, stunning underwater visibility, serene solitude, and the chance to witness the breathtaking Whale Shark season makes it an ideal time to set sail in Belize.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to craft an adventurous and unforgettable sailing vacation. Embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.

Belize Crewed Charters

Ventana al Mar

Ventana Crewed Charters in Belize
5 Cabins
Up to 10 Guests

Discover

Discover Crewed Charters in Belize
6 Cabins
Up to 9 Guests

Miami Boat Show 2024

Miami Boat Show 2024

Needless to say, we were blown away by the sheer size and variety of boats on display at the recent Miami International Boat Show. From sleek power boats to luxurious catamarans, there was something for every type of boating enthusiast.

It was an incredible opportunity to tour the latest models from Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Bali, Nautitech, Leopard, Beneteau, Dufour, and Jenneau, and to speak with industry experts about the cutting-edge technology and design innovations that are shaping the future of boating. We left feeling inspired and excited to bring these new ideas and experiences back to clients.

Attending the boat show also provided us with the chance to connect with the various charter companies and ensure that we are continuing to offer the best deals and experiences for our customers.

Building and maintaining strong relationships with these companies is vital, and the Miami International Boat Show allowed us to strengthen those connections while also discovering new opportunities for collaboration. We left feeling reinvigorated and motivated to continue providing our customers with the most outstanding and unforgettable charter experiences possible.

Below are just are just a few of the yachts that we toured at this year’s Miami International Boat Show:

Leopard

Leopard 50
Leopard 45
Leopard 53 PC

Fountaine Pajot

Isla 40
Tanna 47
Aurora 51

Lagoon

Lagoon 46
Lagoon 55
Lagoon 65

Fun Times On The Water!

Want the opportunity to be featured in an upcoming edition of the VI Sailing Insider…

Send us your pictures/videos when you submit your charter review!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BVI Crewed Yacht Charter

VI Sailing Team

“Always a pleasure. They were very quick and accommodating with two problems that I presented them with.

Great service out of everyone!”

Yacht & Crew

“Yacht was fantastic!

Trevor and Sarah were great! Knowledgeable, accommodating, and very professional. Food was perfect for our taste and likes and amount.

This was our 3rd sail and we have been very fortunate to have very diverse but great crews in their own unique ways.

Trevor and Sarah will hold a special place in our hearts just due to how accommodating and well we worked together!”

– Brent Stephens


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter

VI Sailing Team

“First time booking with a charter broker and there was a good amount of communication. Working with the Concierge Team was very easy.

Was pleasantly surprised by full time wifi.”

Charter Company & Yacht

“BVI great. Boat great.

So fortunate and grateful. God made amazing places.

10 days on a boat. 10 island stops. 5 on mooring ball/anchor.

Snorkeling every stop including wreck of Rhone.”

– Sandy Williamson


⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter


VI Sailing Team

“Very easy working with our broker and the concierge team.

Will always book our next yacht vacation with Virgin Island Sailing.”

Charter Company & Yacht

“Five Navigare charters the last couple of years and Kokomo was by far the most well maintained and well provisioned boat we have been on. You can tell the owners really care and I will seek this boat out again on future BVI charters.

I have nothing but great things to say about Navigare.

Nothing beats the BVI!”

– Robert Thompson

The Moorings – NEW Charter Destination!

Dubrovnik CROATIA

Power Charters now Available in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as The Moorings brings their power catamaran charters to the stunning port of Dubrovnik, Croatia for the 2024 summer season!

Step aboard The Moorings 403PC, the prestigious winner of the 2024 European Boat of the Year, and experience the perfect blend of luxury and excitement on the open waters of Croatia.

Cruise in style as you explore one of the world’s most iconic cruising grounds, where every moment promises optimal comfort, speed, and endless fun. This is your chance to be part of an exclusive vacation platform that offers unparalleled luxury and adventure!

Get ready to set sail for the summer of a lifetime!


The Award-Winning 403PC from The Moorings

The Moorings 403PC 2024 European Boat of the Year

Step aboard the award-winning 403PC and experience the thrill of luxury catamaran cruising!

Get ready to set sail on your next luxurious adventure with The Moorings 403PC, the winner of the esteemed European Powerboat of the Year award. This stunning power catamaran is perfect for small groups or families looking for a stylish and comfortable way to explore paradise.

From the British Virgin Islands to the Bahamas and beyond, The Moorings 403PC is the ultimate choice for your next waterfront getaway. With its contemporary design and sleek roof cap, this yacht boasts the largest flybridge ever seen on a 40-footer, along with wraparound windows that offer breathtaking panoramic views of your surroundings.

Step aboard and experience the spacious aft cockpit, flybridge, and sunbathing areas, all accessible through the side decks or the front door. Inside, you’ll find a fully-equipped galley, three cabins, and top-notch amenities that ensure a luxurious and comfortable stay.

Equipped with two 320 HP engines, the Moorings 403PC offers exceptional reliability and performance, along with a range of features including a watermaker and purifying filter system, domestic refrigerator, and surround sound system with Bluetooth, USB, and AUX connectivity.

With its high-quality interior finishes and similar comfort level to larger power catamarans, The Moorings 403PC is the perfect choice for your next nautical adventure.

Key Features:

  • Sharp lines and contemporary design with high quality interior fit and finishes
  • Inside steering
  • Largest flybridge ever seen on a 40-footer
  • Numerous outside spaces: Aft cockpit, flybridge, aft decks, sunbathing areas
  • Watermaker and purifying filter system meaning you don’t need to use and waste plastic
  • Domestic refrigerator
  • Surround sound with speakers in the saloon, aft cockpit and flybridge. Includes Bluetooth, USB and AUX connectivity.
  • Similar comfort level and performance compared to the Leopard 53 Powercat and Leopard 40 Powercat
  • Upgraded engine from the standard 250hp to the 320hp Yanmar engines

Get ready to experience paradise like never before on this award-winning yacht!

~ SKY JUICE ~

Sky Juice Cocktail
Image courtesy of villadellequerce.it

Embark on a taste voyage with the Sky Juice… a Bahamian delight that captures the essence of tropical paradise in a glass.

The simplicity of gin, coconut water, and sweetened condensed milk harmonizes to create a symphony of flavors, delivering a creamy sweetness with a hint of tropical zest.

Served over ice, the Sky Juice is a sip of laid-back island life, a gentle breeze in a glass that transports you to azure waters and swaying palms.

Ingredients:

~ 2 ounces gin
~ 4 ounces coconut water
~ 1 ounce sweetened condensed milk
~ Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, coconut water, and sweetened condensed milk to the shaker.
3. Shake well to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Optionally, you can garnish with a wedge of lime or a sprinkle of nutmeg for added flavor.
6. Stir gently before drinking to ensure that the ingredients are well-mixed.
7. Serve and enjoy your refreshing Sky Juice cocktail!

Feel free to adjust the ratios of the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Some variations of Sky Juice include a splash of coconut rum for an extra layer of tropical flavor.

Cheers to Sky Juice… a taste of the tropics, wherever your nautical adventures may take you!

Navigating Dreams: Discovering the Enchantment of the Bay of Kotor

Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor, located in Montenegro, is a must-visit destination for sailing enthusiasts. The bay’s towering mountains, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal towns make it a paradise for those looking to explore its beauty from the sea.

Island in Bay of Kotor
Island in Bay of Kotor

The natural beauty of the bay, coupled with its historical significance and perfect sailing conditions, make it an ideal spot for sailors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Montenegro’s coastline.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bay of Kotor offers a unique and unforgettable sailing experience.

When planning a sailing trip to the Bay of Kotor, understanding the geography of the area is crucial to having a memorable experience. The bay is nestled between steep mountains and dotted with charming coastal towns, creating a unique and picturesque setting for sailing.

Perast, Montenegro
Perast

Additionally, knowing where to find the best beaches, hidden coves, and historic sites will allow you to fully appreciate the beauty and culture of the region.

So, take the time to study the geography of the Bay of Kotor before setting sail, and your trip will surely be one to remember.

With its fjord-like geography, The Bay of Kotor offers a unique experience for travelers. As you sail the Bay of Kotor, the coastal towns of Kotor and Perast beckon with their maze of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings, and vibrant squares.

Our Lady of the Rocks, Montenegro
Our Lady of the Rocks

Here, every corner tells a story, inviting sailors and tourists to dive deep into Montenegro’s rich history and culture. Don’t miss the Maritime Museum in Kotor for a glimpse into the seafaring heritage that shapes this magnificent bay.

If you’re someone who loves to seek out unique cultural and natural attractions, then you absolutely must visit Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George Islands.

Lying off the coast of Montenegro, these islands offer an unmatched cultural allure, with Our Lady of the Rocks boasting a centuries-old church and museum, and St. George featuring ancient Benedictine monasteries. In addition to their cultural significance, these islands also offer natural splendor, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and diving.

Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
Sveti Stefan

When it comes to water activities, there’s nothing quite like diving into the crystal-clear waters of Montenegro. Whether you’re swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding, the pristine blue waters provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable sailing trip.

And don’t miss the chance to savor the delicious seafood at the quaint eateries dotted along the coastline. Traditional Montenegrin flavors are sure to enrich your sailing trip, as you indulge in fresh catches prepared with local herbs and spices.

From freshly grilled fish to savory seafood stews, there’s a diverse range of culinary delights awaiting you on your journey through the Bay of Kotor. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or rakija for the ultimate dining experience.

View of Sveti Đorđe island from Perast
View of Sveti Đorđe island from Perast

Montenegro is also known for its lively local events and festivals, and when sailing the Bay of Kotor, travelers have the opportunity to experience these vibrant cultural celebrations.

From the traditional Carnival in Kotor to the Boka Night festival in Herceg Novi, there are numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in the local culture and traditions.

By syncing your Bay of Kotor sailing trip with these events, you can add an extra layer of excitement and cultural immersion to your voyage, creating unforgettable memories and gaining a deeper understanding of the rich history and heritage of Montenegro.

Budva, Montenegro

Sailing the Bay of Kotor offers an unforgettable and unique experience. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and ideal sailing conditions, it’s a perfect destination.

Whether you’re exploring the charming coastal towns, admiring the rugged mountains, or simply enjoying the peaceful tranquility of the bay, there’s something for everyone to savor on a sailing adventure in this picturesque part of Montenegro.

Contact us today to help you get started on this dream vacation!


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