Yacht Charters by Regency Yacht Vacations

Scuba Dive Yacht Charters

2009-07-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to try scuba diving? Why not combine it with a sailing vacation in the Caribbean and get the best of both worlds from the warm crystal seas to the white stunning beaches. Whether you are a certified diver or a beginner, scuba diving in the Caribbean is the best way to wet your appetite. The Caribbean boasts many dive sites, shallow enough for a snorkellor, to wrecks that the more experienced diver can explore.

Scuba dive yacht charters are available primarily from catamarans - Akasha, Reaction, Alidade are just a few of the many choices out there - but there are monohulls that do offer diving such as Quixote, or Sublime. Even if the yacht of your choice does not offer diving there are plenty of rendezvous companies that will work with you and your yacht to give you an experience that you will not forget.

Summer Cruising in New England

2009-07-13T07:19:00.000-07:00

For the past year people are changing the way they vacation. This summer many are opting for staycations. Playing tourist in ones hometown or region is an appealling option for when the budget doesn't extend to include far away places like the

Mediterranean or the Caribbean.

For landlubbers on the eastern seaboard a weekend Getaway by sea can be a great way to see some familiar places in a new way. For example in Newport why not charter yacht Entrepreneurship and sail past the city's mansions that grace the rocky cliff, including Beechwood, Rosecliff, Marble House, The Breakers, Ochre Court, and Rough Point. One of the many great events that this historical town has to offer is the Newport Music Festival that takes place throughout July on the front lawns and ballrooms of these great homes.

Summer cruising in New England can be a great way for families to rediscover the history and foundation of the New England Colonies.

Clothing Optional Cruises in the Caribbean

2009-05-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

The fastest growing segment of the travel industry since 1999 has been in nude vacations.
Caribbean Soul is the only Caribbean nude sailing cruise certified by the American Association of Nude Recreation.They maintain the AANR code of ethic and standards with the commitment to fostering wholesome environments for individuals and families alike.

Your hosts are seasoned sailors of the waters in the Virgin Islands and make excellent guides.
They know the out of way places to take you that are far from the crowds and the “textile” masses for those seeking a clothing optional escape.
While the crew will make every effort to take you to secluded beaches and anchorages, there will be times that a swim suit or
cover-up will be necessary.

This year they will have 40 clothing optional couples cruising on Caribbean SoulA unique yachtA unique cruise

Charter in Belize

2009-05-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

Belize blends the best of two environments, the
Central American Jungles and the Caribbean Sea. Belize is the only English speaking country in Central American located on the Caribbean coast between Mexico and Guatemala. For those of you who have sailed the Virgin Islands or the Bahamas, you will find this a truly unique experience. You will not be hovering for a mooring or pulling into a busy anchorage competing for a spot to drop anchor. Instead, you will find unspoiled beaches free from cruise ship passengers with a stunning backdrop of the sea surrounding them.
Belize is blessed with an amazing variety of reefs including the longest barrier reef in the Western hemisphere. The reef not only provides a magnificent aquarium for every snorkellor and diver but protection from the large ocean swells. This makes a very comfortable experience for even the first time sailor.
Unique and unusual, Belize is a destination for the traveler looking to experience different cultures and exotic environments. Exploring the land of Belize can be just as exciting as the marine life. You can visit Mayan temples and pyramids, hike the jungles and wetlands with its array of tropical plants, birds and animals.

Combine both of these adventures while staying aboard your own Crewed charter yacht. First class service with a knowledgeable crew make this a great option to experience two very different ecosystems.

Legacy, a 65 ft custom catamaran is available for Charter in Belize. She comfortably accommodates twelve passengers in six private staterooms. The large salon provides for a cool and relaxing area with beautiful panoramic views. The enormous deck space includes a cockpit for dining, dancing, group meetings, and relaxing. The Legacy is the ideal platform to stage your ocean discoveries. The Legacy is a sailing vessel specifically designed to deliver a stable, comfortable ride. An energetic crew delivers first class service, gourmet meals, and first class diving. Scuba divers will find the unique dive deck, which lowers to water level, provides for the greatest of ease for entering the water. Tanks and equipment are stored in benches along the transom for convenience. Featuring onboard compressor and fresh water rinse tanks, the Legacy can meet the demands of avid divers, photographers, researchers, and production companies, as well as fun seekers and families.

Belize City is easily reached from 3 US gateway cities: Dallas, Houston or Miami all with in a 2.5 hour flight.

New England Sailing

2009-04-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

This summer why not explore America's coastline. The New England coast is rich in history, culture and natural beauty.

From quaint fishing villages and pituresque harbors in Maine to the sophistication and charme of Newport to Nantucket, it is a trip that should be on anyones bucket list.

One such yacht available for New England sailing is Entrepreneurship. This catamaran has dedicated it's entire starboard hull as a king size master cabin built with privacy in mind…perfect for couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary with an en-suite head & stall shower. The port hull contains your choice of forward double or aft twins that can be converted to a double. Both of these cabins are en-suite with their own head and shower.

Whether you are looking for a weekend itinerary or longer, Entrepreneurship can provide a fun filled holiday

New England rates

2-4 pax Captain Only

$8500 plus all expenses.

Caribbean recipes, the best food in the Caribbean

2009-04-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

For many, a crewed yacht sailing vacation is all about the sailing, the sun, the beaches etc...but for the foodies it can be a gastronomical treat. Many of the charter chefs have trained at culinary institutes and worked in prestigious restaurants or resorts. What really makes it amazing is that they can prepare the same delicious menus in a boat galley. These guys and gals really can produce some of the best food in the Caribbean.

When chartering in the Caribbean, these chefs are creative when it comes to producing menus as one will never know what you can find on the supermarket shelves.

The chef of sailing vessel Sayang shares this Caribbean recipe, a favorite among her charter guests:

"Good cooking does not have to consist of lots of expensive ingredients, ‘the simpler the better’ could not be more accurate in these recessionary times. Quality ingredients are the essence of good food. Even though I have used lobster which is readily available in the British Virgin Islands this can be replaced with crab or prawn. Follow your instincts and please use this as a pick and mix swapping and changing ingredients where it suits. I have added orange segments as I think this adds a lovely citrus addition to the contrasting flavors. Served with a fresh baguette and a bottle of Chablis this goes down a treat for lunch aboard the cockpit of Sayang in a beautiful anchorage."

Lobster and Orange salad in a green peppercorn dressing

Ingredients
2x750g of cooked lobster (alternative with warm or cold king prawns)

2 large oranges

150ml natural yoghurt

1 tablespoon green peppercorns

½ teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 tablespoon olive oil

A splash of brandy

100g mixed salad leaves (combination of gem, curly endive, rocket or English butterheads.)

Shell the lobster and cut the meat into cubes

To segment the oranges top and tail the fruits using a serrated edged knife. The rind and pith can now be removed by cutting in a sawing motion down the sides. To release the segments, simply cut between each membrane into segments saving all the juices.

To make the dressing, place the yoghurt, peppercorns, mustard, oil, brandy, orange juice and a pinch of salt in a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Pour into a screw top jar and shake well before use. The dressing will keep refrigerated for up to 48 hours.

Divide the lobster, orange segments and salad leaves among four plates and drizzle the green peppercorn dressing over each.

Charter yacht sales

2009-04-08T12:36:00.000-07:00

Would you like to have your very own yacht in the Caribbean but need to know that you have someone reliable to maintain and look after the yacht when you are not there? Look no further than Charter yacht sales, an evolving business with a market worldwide.
New or used, most charter yachts are built to accommodate guest and crew alike in a comfortable and practical manner. You can find yachts with all the modern conveniences or maybe you are just looking for the necessities.

A crewed yacht charter fleet is the perfect way to keep your boat, virtually anywhere in the world. The advantage of this, is that there will be a crew onboard – normally live aboard - that look after and maintain the boat. Some of the costs (for most owners this is not a business to make money but to defray costs) are offset by chartering the boat.

So, if you dream of owning a yacht in the Caribbean, it can be a reality!

2009-04-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

Caribbean Yachts For Charter

2009-04-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Caribbean Yachts for Charter by Northrop & Johnson Yachts

The US and British Virgin Islands are the most popular and with good reason. This string of more than 60 small islands strung in a 40 mile chain are appealing to first time Caribean Yacht Charter guests and people who return often. Air flights are easy with direct flights into St. Thomas and connecting air into

Select one of the following charter yachts by Name:

Yacht Maltese Falcon
Princess Marian Yacht
Yacht Aquasition

Tortola through San Juan making this a good choice even for less than a week trips. Because the islands are close together so that you are not going out of sight of land the seas are generally calm and there are many secluded and safe anchorages to choose. Another large advantage is that charter yacht in this area less than 80 feet will offer a set all inclusive rate – great value in today’s market. Because this is a popular charter destination, there are a large number of monohulls, catamarans and power yachts in a variety of sizes to choose from – and that also means the rates are the most affordable in the world!

What to bring on a Caribbean yacht charter

2009-04-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Living and working in a popular tourist destination such as the Virgin Islands, lends itself to eye opening observations of people. While the temperatures can be quite warm and bodies are tanned, it is never appropriate to walk through town in ones bikini. The West Indian culture is a conservative one and locals appreciate modest attire when visitors are in the towns or clearing customs.

Spike heel shoes can be a pet peeve for charter boat captains. Recently I witnessed a couple on the dock with their rather large suitcases, more than necessary for a 1 week stay..... what really struck me funny was the shoes the lady was wearing. While they were fabulous 3 inch "Sex in The City" looking shoes, she was having a difficult time navigating the planks on the dock. The dilemma really presented itself when she attempted to board the rubber inflatable dinghy with these 3 inch spike heals, silk dress and designer suede handbag/carryall in tow. Needless to say, 10 minutes later she sat barefoot and happy as they motored away from the dock.

So, when packing for your next Caribbean yacht charter with Regency Yacht Vacations remember to pack and dress sensably. Soft luggage or duffle-type bags that can be folded for storage are ideal at sea. Hard pieces are always a burden to store, so if they can be avoided, you’ll please the entire crew and find more room for everyone aboard. The ideal charter guest is one who comes aboard with one duffle bag for the week’s charter.

Honeymoon On A Private Charter Yacht

2009-03-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

More and more today we are seeing destination weddings growing in popularity.
Many couples are opting for a smaller more intimate setting for their nuptials. Combining the wedding ceremony with the honeymoon is a perfect way to celebrate and spend time with close family and friends. What could be better then getting married on a white powder sand beach in the Caribbean then board your very own Private charter yacht for a honeymoon cruise…your Regency Charter broker can help arrange this.

Getting married on foreign soil is legal and fairly simple. For example in the British Virgin Islands:
If either or both of you have been previously married, an original copy of your divorce decree(s) (or spouse's death certificate) is necessary.
You must be on the island for at least 3 working days, which means that if you file your paperwork on a Monday, the earliest you may be married is on that Thursday.
You will need to pay the BVI government marriage tax. This is done by purchasing $110 in stamps from the Post Office. They actually have a $100 stamp & $10 stamp specifically for the marriage tax.

You will need your passports, the other paperwork mentioned above and the stamps. All these items are handed over to the Attorney General to be sent for the Governor's approval, and are returned to you on the day of your wedding (except the tax stamps of course). In addition, you will need two witnesses to sign at the time you are filling out the proper paperwork in the Attorney General's chambers. At this time you will need to have decided on a location for your wedding.

Finally you will fill out a small form and confirm the location, time, and date of your wedding ceremony with the Registrar. Additionally, you will have to name two "witnesses of record" for your marriage license. These witnesses may act as your attendants at your wedding and need to be present at the wedding to sign the legal documentation. The Registrar of Marriages performs all civil ceremonies. The fee for the Registrar is $100 (plus any expenses) for weddings outside the office and $35 for marriages performed inside the Registrar's Office.

2009-03-11T12:58:00.001-07:00

Caribbean Racing at its finest.

For the yacht racing enthusiasts out there, it is the heart of the racing season here in the Caribbean. The CORT series has begun--Caribbean Racing Triangle. The CORT circuit consist of the St Croix International (Feb 20-22), The Culebra International ( March 20-22) and concluding with the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival (April 2-5). The other two highly participatory races are the St Martin Heineken Regatta (March 6-8) and the St Thomas Rolex Regatta (March 27-29). Sailors from around the world converge for serious racing all hoping to be on the podium

This past weekend the Heineken Regatta will be remembered as one of the windiest events in its history. The 3 day event saw steady NE winds gusting to 40Kts. Collisions and downed masts were all part of the equation that made for a wet and wild weekend.

Cruising the Florida Keys

2009-03-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

No passport needed!

An alternative to travelling to the Caribbean.
You do not have to travel far to feel the balmy breezes. The Florida Keys are an attractive alternative to a tropical vacation. Easy flights into Miami, no customs hassles and no passports make this a no brainer. Laid back with over 800 islands you will find that they offer the same first rate fishing, diving and snorkel opportunities that you would find in the Caribbean.

The shallow, clear and protected waters contribute to the pristine conditions of the Florida Keys. There are secluded coves and beaches, lively marinas and restaurants, wild life and fauna. Whatever your interests, you will find something to tantalize your senses. To maximize your time your Regency brokers sugggest that you cruise from Miami to Key West and than return by rental car to Miami airport, a mere 3 hours drive.

2009-03-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

Why Choose a Catamaran over a mono-hull?

The shallow daft of a catamaran allows you or your captain to anchor close to a beach or inside shallow bays where most other yachts can not reach. They are very stable which many people find more comfortable than traditional sailing yachts. A large platform between the hulls means more space for your group to spread out. In tropical climates this is a huge bonus as most people prefer to dine, read or just lounge outside under the shade of the bimini. Alternatively, the bow hosts a prime spot for sunbathing on the trampoline, the space between the 2 hulls.

In the past few years, catamarans have been the fastest growing division in the sailboat market.
For owners, the rising market of this popular style yacht has given catamarans a higher resale value over mono-hulls, many retaining the original purchase value.

Planners vs Spontaneous for your yacht charter

2008-12-29T04:19:00.000-08:00

In the yacht charter field Regency brokers have noticed that clients come in quite a variety of sizes and types -- from fancy to plain, big groups of multi generational families to just one person looking for peace and quite. But there are two general trends -- planners and the spur-of-the-moment types.

Planners are people who like to have something to look forward to -- the reward that makes the hard work worthwhile, as well as people whose jobs or circumstances mean they need lead time to get away from it all. We are getting plenty of calls from planners for May and June -- many of them family trip or a trip to the Mediterranean.

Spontaneous types are calling now to get out of the sub-zero temperatures that are covering much of the USA. They love being able to react to circumstances & say -- get me out onto the water and into the sunshine. Often this is a couple who can more easily arrange to make plans less then a month away.

So even though you may think that the question is whether to charter a power yacht or catamaran, Regency brokers can let you know that there is not just one timing horizon to plan your next charter -- more a matter of working with how you like to live your life!

Best wishes for the holiday season!

2008-12-24T04:43:00.000-08:00

The countdown is almost over, families & friends are either on charter or ready to start their trek to the Caribbean ready to enjoy rest, relaxation under sunny skies and warm breezes.

The crew have decorated, made New Year's celebration plans and are ready to show guests the best that yacht chartering offers: snorkel, dive, hike, sail, and dine, read a book, stargaze with an after dinner drink.

Yachts large & small, power or sail, catamaran or monohull -- endless choices in styles and price ranges await you in the Caribbean. this is going to be the year of last minute bookings as a bitter winter descends on the US. We are ready to help -- call or email!

The staff at Regency send you wishes of peace and goodwill for the holiday season and the coming year!

December Charter Shows

2008-12-01T04:23:00.000-08:00

This week begins the Antigua and St Maarten Charter Shows which feature predominately the larger sail, power and catamarans that are available this winter in the Caribbean. Fun and festive, these shows are also work -- as the Regency brokers examine yachts first hand, noting condition and their particular attributes as well as meeting crew and seeing what sets them apart from the rest.

Doing this sort of complete check in locations around the world is how clients can be confident about the recommendations we make for your vacation. Being able to explain that one older yacht is in pristine condition while another has a crew that might be a bit rigid gives the client critical information in making the choice of yacht that will suit their taste and budget.

So we look forward to walking miles and miles of dock & deck to make sure your charter is everything you dreamed about!

'Va Bene' available for charter in Antigua

2008-11-26T03:45:00.000-08:00

The luxurious 47 meter power yacht Va Bene was recently refit by her new owner, music legend Eric Clapton. Completely updated in an elegant unpretentious style particularly suited for families, read more about her history at: http://edition.cnn.com/2008/SPORT/11/25/clapton.yacht/index.html

Va Bene accommodates 12 guests in 5 cabins and has 13 attentive crew. Based in a favorite location of the owner, Antigua, she is available for charter during the winter months for a weekly rate of $239,000 plus all expenses and will return to the Med for the summer season.

For more details about the yacht:
VA BENE http://www.myCharter.com/Va-bene/index.asp?pass=521206099

Christmas Winds arrive early in the Carribean!

2008-11-24T05:27:00.000-08:00

Traditionally, mid December is when the "Christmas Winds" start blowing cool northern air down the Atlantic so that steamy fall temps drop from the high 80/90F into the high 70sF making sitting in the sun a pleasure. This winds move from a southeast light breeze into a strong northeasterly trad wind which makes sailing fast and exciting.

This year the winds have turned and the palm fronds are tossing their heads over the sparkling blue sea which has cooled off the Caribbean weather into long sleeve shirt weather in the evenings!

Locals know this is not really 'cold' and many sitting in New England won't have any sympathy, but now is when we drag out that light blanket to sleep out on deck under starry skies.

Time for you to come warm up in our 'cooler' weather?

VI Shows over -- break before St. Maarten & Antigua Shows

2008-11-18T03:47:00.000-08:00

There were some wonderful yachts at the VI charter shows this year! ReAction -- a personal favorite of mine won best in show in Tortola -- Ian and Polly do a fabulous job and the boat looked brand new & sparkling. Power yacht Analisa with Ruth & Peter welcomed brokers for the first time and their previous experience shows as this yacht looked very good with numerous upgrades.

In St. Thomas, Viaggio arrived in the nick of time, a brand new Horizon 74 power yacht, she offers an inclusive rate which many clients prefer when chartering in the relatively close waters of the Virgin Islands. For sailing yachts, La Dolce Vita looked all set to have guests as well as the catamaran Felicia with her new crew.

The talk of many crews was branching out to the Spanish Virgin Islands of Culebra and Vieques to try the longer sailing options, great snorkeling and an area that sees relatively few tourists.

The charter shows were a great success, now to find the surface of my desk before the December Shows are time to view larger yachts that have just arrived from New England and the Med!

Sail catamaran Amaryllis in the US Virgin Islands!

2008-11-17T05:49:00.000-08:00

For clients who want to take less than a week's vacation Amaryllis is offering a 2-5 day USVI package and waiving the 10% surcharge for charters less than 6 days. No time is wasted clearing customs as they stay in USVI waters. Amaryllis can pick up on St. Thomas or St. John making this ideal for clients who want some time on the water and some time ashore at a resort or villa.

Here is brief description of where you can sail:
Explore USVI National Park - No Passport Required!
The best kept secret in the Virgin islands is the island of St. John -
2/3 National Park with secluded anchorages, beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, historical ruins and great hiking trails. Snorkel in secluded Newfound Bay, kayak in the Hurricane Hole wildlife preserve, visit exquisite Salt Pond Beach and beach comb dramatic Drunk Bay, hike to the only petroglyphs found in the Virgin Islands (a sacred pool used by the Taino indians), explore 200 year old sugar mill ruins, or shop for unique items in Cruz Bay. St. John has it all and no time is wasted clearing customs in foreign ports.

Plus there are a number of smaller cays & islands -- Lavango, Hans Lolick, Great St. James worth visiting as well.

For details on this great catamaran & her crew, view online brochure:
AMARYLLIS 45 Feet.Sleeps 6 Guests in 3 Double(s)Online brochure: http://www.cyabrochure.com/eb/1073/xyrd/1103/1
Rates and Availability: http://www.cyabrochure.com/eb/1073/xyrd/1103/4

Zingara -- large catamaran available December in the BVI

2008-11-07T05:39:00.000-08:00

Zingara, the luxury Matrix catamaran with 5 cabins for up to 10 guests is now available over Christmas & New Year weeks in he British Virgin Islands due to a cancellation.

This cat with 4 professional crew serves up fine dining along with plenty of water sports -- even scuba diving.

This is a great opportunity for those who might have delayed making family plans for the holidays -- act now to get out into the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean under warm suuny skies.

For brochure details: http://www.charterbrochure.com/zingara/

BVI Charter Show starts tomorrow!

2008-11-04T04:37:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year again for charter yachts to gather on the dock at marinas in the British Virgin Islands for the annual charter show, followed by a similar show in St. Thomas. Crews are ready to show off their improvements and brokers check that the yachts & crew are ready for the most demanding charter client.

There is plenty of fun catching up with familiar faces whether on a perennial favorite monohull or spacious new command -- catamaran or power yacht. But this is serious business too -- the Regency brokers have an advantage in that we are local and often see the yachts as they go about their routine, but for many this is their one opportunity to evaluate the condition of yacht & crew.

But the sun is out and looking at boats is never a hardship -- that's what drew the Regency team to the Caribbean and chartering in the first place! So ask us if we've been aboard the yacht you are considering chartering -- and get a first hand evaluation of the yacht & crew!

Aldebaran -- brightest star in the sky & best crew!

2008-10-30T22:56:00.000-07:00

Lagoon catamaran Aldebaran is eagerly awaiting your arrival. We are excited to share Aldebaran and her upgrades as well as her new improved crew........... well the same crew

BUT.........JUSTIN IS NOW A DIVE INSTRUCTOR During summer vacation, Justin upgraded his licences to include a dive instructors certification. Justin will offer certification onboard Aldebaran as follows :$150 for a resort course$225 for referral dive certificationFull ceritfications and specific certifications will be quoted when enquiry occurs.

CAYLEY IS A YOGA INSTRUCTOR While Justin braved the oceans and expanded his diving expertise, Cayley trained at Kripalu in Massachusettes , becoming a certified yoga instructor. She plans to enhance the relaxation and enjoyment of a charter on board Aldebaran by sharing personal yoga classes to all guests who are interested. The training at Kripalu icluded experience with healthy eating and vegetarian food preparation, which will benefit any guest wanting this type of menu aboard Aldebaran.

Based in the BVI for relaxation and personal attention. www.viewyacht.com/Aldebaran

Heather Wood -- a terrific addition to the charter sales team!

2008-10-24T05:40:00.000-07:00

Heather Wood joins Regency and Northrop and Johnson sales team full time in our Road Town Tortola office.

Originally from New England, Heather met her husband, a yacht Captain, while sailing with friends. After several years of deliveries and visits, Heather moved full time to the BVI and married Captain Simon.

Now living ashore, Heather brings her enthusiasm for the Caribbean and boating life to her work as well as a great attention to detail.

Call and see how Heather can find that perfect match of yacht & crew for your vacation!