Feb 17, 2012

My Fantasy Sailing Vacation continues in the warm, sunny Caribbean. We have our own floating hotel, a 44’ luxury catamaran, named “Mardi Gras”, as we explore the islands of the British Virgin Islands.

Fantasy Sailing Vacations

Morning arrives at Norman Island. Soft lapping of waves on the boat, gently rocking as others cruiser prepare to cast off. Sea gulls diving for their sushi breakfast. I follow the aroma of coffee and there on the deck the table is set with flowers, fresh fruit, croissant’s, a beautiful vegetable frittata and of course mimosas. Hugo is discussing the next destination with Jeffery as Heidi serves our delicious breakfast.

Todays final sailing destination is Scrub Island. First we dinghy over to the Indians, a renowned snorkeling location. The Indians consist of a large rock formation and as we swim around and through the tunnels we are amazed at the beauty of the coral and the hundreds of colorful tropical fish. Jeffery has accompanied us and is causing a feeding frenzy with his bread crumbs. Blue Tangs, Queen Angels, Parrot Fish, Trigger fish, Sargent Majors, Blue Damsels, Butterfly fish……. I feel like we are in the Georgia Aquarium

Returning to “Mardi Gras” we prepare to set sail with Hugo assisting and working on his sailing skills. I decide to find a chaise lounge on the sun deck to work on my tan and read my favorite novel. Sailing is so peaceful, no sound or smell of engines just wind in the sails and the sound of Adele singing through the sound system.

I awaken to the sound of voices as we are entering the harbor. Looking up at a mountain top I see the beautiful resort of Scrub Island. This is the first new resort built in over 30 years in the BVI and expense has not been spared. Heidi has already made an appointment for Hugo and I to be pampered and have a couples spa treatment.

The beautifully appointed spa is open air and we are surrounded by views of the sparking Caribbean. Two trained therapist apply a soothing hot stone treatment and a Chocolate facial. Birds chirp in the beautiful floral trees, blue skies and the temperature is 84 degrees. A champagne lunch is served on the terrace where we can see for miles and miles.

A return to our yacht and Jeffery tosses our rafts into the water for an afternoon of total relaxation. Hey, is that a turtle that just swam by to say hello?

Tonight we will dine at the resort at the renowned Caravela Restaurant. My shopping in St. Thomas comes in handy as I wear my new sun dress to compliment my golden tan. Cocktails in the lively bar and then a romantic dinner of lobster bisque, chateaubriand and chocolate shuffle complete with wine parings from the extensive international wine selection.

Caribbean Sailing charters offer the best of all worlds. Fine dining, beach bar hoping, diving, snorkeling, exploring and hiking all at your convince.

Let the friendly, experienced team at SailwithTerry Charters plan your custom Fantasy Caribbean Sailing Vacations. One call and we will fill your dreams and fit your budget.

Feb 9, 2012

I was whisked away to an unknown destination three days ago and now I am on a beautiful catamaran preparing to sail around and explore the islands in the BVI on this Caribbean Sailing Vacation.

Caribbean Sailing Vacations

Our 44’ luxury catamaran, “Mardi Gras” will be our home for the next six days. The “cat” has all of the conveniences of home, numerous decks for lounging, sun tanning, and secluded areas for reading. Also available are floats, knee boards, board paddling equipment, a kayak for two, a dinghy that will pull us on skis, and all sorts of snorkeling fins and masks.

Our first nights destination is Norman Island, a short sail from Tortola just to get our “sea legs” and feel comfortable on the water. The great thing about sailing in the BVI is that you are always in sight of land. There are over 60 islands and cays, many of course are not inhabited. This is comforting to me since this is a very new adventure to me and I envisioned open seas with waves crashing ( too many movies). The water is crystal clear and you can actually see the bottom, gentle waves and a nice balmy breeze.

The sails are hoisted and we are sitting on the deck listening to the soft sound of the waves. No engine sounds, no diesel smell. Entering the anchorage at Normal Island, our capable crew grabs a mooring ball and we are invited into the dingy to explore our first island.

Pirates is the local establishment, very laid back, beach chairs everywhere. Sitting at the bar we are greeted by the friendly islander bar tender, Joseph and order our first “pain killer”. Soon we are meeting fellow cruisers. There are about 30 boats in the anchorage and visitors are from all over the world , each has a story to share.

Norman Island is owned by a doctor and has not been developed. Local stories relate that he actually found a treasure from a shipwreck and purchased the island. We decide to hike and explore along a primitive path. The trail is mountainous and soon we reach a plateau with 360 degrees views. Breathtakingly beautiful. Blue sky, turquoise ocean as far as the yes could see. The temperature is around 82 degrees and life could not be better.

A return to Mardi Gras and Hugo and I decide to lay back and soak up some rays. As evening approaches cocktails are served on the deck as we salute the sunset and our first day on the ocean. A delicious gourmet dinner served el fresco on the deck under the stars.

This is the ultimate fantasy vacation and each moment just gets better. No crowds, no sit down dinners, no hustling to the next port. A crew that caters to our desires and our schedule. I lay back on the deck and try to count the stars and constellation. What is tomorrow going to bring?

To schedule you fantasy vacation without crowds and agendas, check out sailwithterry.com, Captain Terry knows the Caribbean, he knows the best boats and crew and will find you the best price. Let the Captain plan your Fantasy Caribbean Sailing Vacations, phone 888-679-7245

Feb 7, 2012

Hugo continues to shower me with surprises and as my Fantasy Valentine Vacation continues in the Virgin Islands.

Fantasy Valentine Sailing Vacation

I awaken to the sun streaming into our room as there is knock on the door. Breakfast! The waiter sets the table on the balcony overlooking the huge Charlotte Amaile harbor. The turquoise water sparkles with diamonds in the bright sun and the skies are bright blue with not a cloud in sight. We are sitting on top of a mountain and literally have a birds eye view.

The leisurely breakfast consists of mimosas, buttery croissants and a delicious frittata, accommodated by fresh local fruit.

Soon we are on our way on our next destination. A short taxied ride down and around the mountain and we are at Red Hook for our ferry ride to Road Town Tortola. Speedy’s Ferry is huge and speedy and of course we sit upstairs where the wind is in our hair and we can absorb the rays. The views are spectacular, we pass St. John and the multiple islands of the British Virgins. The wind is consistent and sailboats are all around us going and coming to new adventures.

After a forty-five minute trip we arrive in Road Town and now Hugo has informed me that we will be chartering a catamaran to sail the British Virgin Islands. The marina is huge and there are literally hundreds of boats bobbing at the docks. Monohulls, catamarans, small and huge. What am I in for now?

A pretty young lady comes out and introduces herself,  Sarah works for the charter boat company will be showing us to our boat.Yes, she explains, Hugo has charted a crewed catamaran complete with gourmet chef. We approach a large beautiful boat and a smiling couple greet us. Heidi and Jeffery will be our crew and will be taking care of us for the next 7 days.

A quick tour of our floating hotel and I am in awe! The lower deck has a beautiful siting and lounging area, great for all of the el fresco meals. The galley and salon are most impressive. Beautiful wood, while leather cushions stainless steel appliance, flat screen TV and sound system. The living area is roomy and inviting. Next we enter our sleeping quarters. A queen size bed, large bath with a double shower. I had no idea that a boat could be so spacious, more like a luxury condo.

We quickly store our baggage and go back up to the deck where Heidi has prepared cool beverages for us and a light lunch. Jeffery explains that we will have a short briefing about boat safety and they we will discuss our agenda for the week. I am so excited, nervous and yes a little scared. After all I am a mountain girl and this is a new experience. A luxury boat with a friendly crew and Hugo by my side. Bring on the fantasy sailing vacation.

Planning the perfect sailboat charter vacation requires expertise and knowledge. Check out sailwithterry. Captain Terry has sailed these waters and knows the best boats, the best crew, to fit any budget. Booking activity is going strong, don’t hesitate, call 941-266-0296 or email sailwithterry@gmail.com. Today start planning you fantasy sailing vacation.

Jan 28, 2012

“My Fantasy Valentine Vacation continues. We have arrived in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands and since this is truly a surprise getaway, I had to do some serious shopping . Leaving Atlanta at 32 degrees and arriving in paradise at 82 degrees requires some major wardrobe adjustments.

Fantasy Sailing Vacations

Well now I know what it feels like to “shop till you drop”. Laden with numerous bags, Hugo summoned a taxi for our ride to my next surprise. Walter was our driver and boy was he entertaining. When he found out this was a surprise fantasy vacation he stepped into high gear. The roads in St. Thomas are narrow, designed for one vehicle but that does not stop anyone from speeding. Besides being narrow, the roads go straight up the mountainside with a minimum of switch backs and the only thing that you see is a steep drop off and miles and miles of beautiful aqua Caribbean Ocean dotted with hundreds of miniature sailboats. Of course Walter was as cool as could be and did not see me duck on the floor board as a truck approached our path, I forgot that the cars drive on the opposite side of the road as we do in the US. (British influence)

We passed colorful houses clinging to the hillsides, tropical flowers everywhere and lush green mountainsides. Finally we pulled over in front of a small boutique hotel, The Mafolie. The proprietor, Bob, came out to greet us and escorted us to the most charming room that I have ever seen. King size bed, large paddle fan, and the view was just breathtaking. Being on top of the mountains we were able to see several of the other islands and the activity on the harbor with huge cruise ships coming and leaving.

A quick change of clothes and Hugo and I decided to go for a swim. A cool cocktail from the Tiki bar, a comfortable lounge chair, and we soon dozed off while soaking up some warm sunshine. It is hard to believe that this morning we were braving cold wind and icy rain as we drove to the airport in Atlanta.

Evening was approaching so Hugo informed me to dress for dinner. The Mafolie Hotel is well known for its ambience and excellent cuisine. A martini at the bar where we met several visitors from Canada. The sunset was extraordinary and toasts were exchanged. Soon we were guided to our table. A million lights below from Charlotte Amalie and a million lights from heaven above. Our entrees were excellent and the wine was wonderful. Hugo had certainly planned the perfect fantasy vacation.

I sleepily asked Hugo if he had any special plans for tomorrow. Oh, yes! the vacation is just starting. Tomorrow we will board a large ferry boat and make our way to Tortola. I am too tired to ask what is a Tortola. Stay tuned as my fantasy Valentine vacation unfolds.”

Caribbean charter vacations come in all sizes, types and prices. Check out the photo gallery at sail with Terry.com. Captain Terry has been making dream vacations come true. He knows the islands and will assist you in planning your fantasy sailing vacations.

Jan 28, 2012

Fantasy Sailing Vacation

Valentines Day is a great time to be creative and create your fantasy sailing vacation get-a-way. “Last year my husband took the plunge and he totally surprised me with a sailing trip in the US Virgins Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

My husband Hugo has never failed to amaze me how he is able to pull off the perfect get away without me ever have a clue as to the destination. This time I was given a heads up that we would be  leaving on Feb. 12th for a weeksʼ vacation. Period!! Where are we going? What to pack? I was advised to just be ready to leave on Friday morning!!!! I had no idea it would be the best vacation of my life and I have had some great vacations.

Well, girls like to be prepared so a makeup bag was essential and a few pieces of lingerie went into a weekend bag. There were no hints or clues so I had to sit back and just wait for the surprise. The big day arrived and we departed for the airport. A Bloody Mary in the Crown Room relaxed my nervous excitement and I decided that Hugo could take over. Soon we proceeded to the gate where a flight was getting ready to depart for St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Oh no! No bathing suit, no shorts, I had on my wool slacks and a sweater. What to do? Well at least Hugo had my passport!

The flight to St. Thomas was easy and the champagne was delightful. Warm balmy weather, blues skies and soft breezes we walked down the stairs of the plane to the airport reception area where we were greeted by smiling locals offering rum punch samples. I was beginning to like this vacation.

A short taxi ride along the Harbor of Charlotte Amalie, we viewed several huge cruise ships at the dock and sea planes landing on the bay. Lots of activity and excitement. The cars drive on the  opposite side of the street and we are seeing rush hour traffic in the islands. Our driver, Vern, was born in Nevis, but came to St. Thomas for economic opportunities over twenty years ago. Vern had a perpetual smile and continued to give tips for noted restaurants in the area. Suddenly Vern turned left and my mouth flew open. A street with shops as far as the eye could see and beyond. Did I see Jewelry? Perfume? Designer bags? Was I dreaming? No, Hugo informed me that we would now go shopping for my fantasy vacation wardrobe. Oh my, this was a fantasy and I was ready to start some serious shopping. Since the shops are all contiguous, my biggest challenge was which side of the street did I want to start? This is truly an amazing experience. The streets are closed to auto traffic and the shops are all offering specials. There is no duty on alcohol, perfume, jewelry so it is truly a shoppers heaven. In addition to the shops on the main street, there are numerous little alleys that offer art galleries, boutiques and restaurants with outdoor seating. Just the right place to take a break, enjoy a cool beverage and watch the bustling activity in the area . Over 4,000 cruise ship guests are here so the air is festive.

Stay tuned for a exciting taxi ride, a sunset, happy hour, a fabulous gourmet dinner and a ferry boat ride to remember.”

Sailing vacations expert Captain Terry can help you design your fantasy Caribbean sailing vacation. Check out sailwithterry.com and then call 941 266 0296 or email sailwithterry@gamil.com , your budget, your itinerary. Make your reservations for a fantasy valentine sailing vacation.

Jan 27, 2012

Caribbean Sailing

A common misperception about a Caribbean Sailing Vacation is that you spend all your time on a sailboat and that you are sailing out of the sight of land. Nothing could be further from reality on a typical sailing trip when SailigWithTerry.  The BVI has 60 islands and cays very close to each other providing short or long sails and lots of fun activity options.

Diving/Snorkeling – On a Caribbean sailing vacation one favorite activity when SailingWithTerry is enjoying the many spectacular diving and snorkeling destinations. The BVI is an underwater paradise with over 100 dive/snorkel sites for undersea exploration and offers azure clear waters, abundant sea life, stunning coral gardens, canyons, tunnels, caverns, grottos, and shipwrecks.

In customizing your sailing trip we can include as much diving and snorkeling as you wish. We can start the day off diving/snorkeling, we can have multiple stops during the day and we always end up at an anchorage where we can do more diving/snorkeling.

Sailing – Oh Yes, On your sailing vacation we will do as much sailing as you want. It was a simple decision to choose to operate SailWithTerry in the BVI the BVI is a sailor’s paradise. The crystal clear waters, peaceful anchorages, constant trade winds and deserted coves provide the environment for a special sailing vacation. Winds generally blow at 10-25 knots, and are sometimes stronger in the winter months Whether you are an accomplished sailor, or a land-lubber with no experience at all Captain Terry will help you to set sail on an sailing adventure you’ll never forget.

On your sailing vacation you will enjoy incredible variety – the BVI is a cruising area that is approximately 32 miles long and 15 miles wide. A sailing vacation gives you the freedom to create your own agenda around the sixty islands and cays that form the beautiful BVI.

Fishing – On your sailing trip Captain Terry will schedule rendezvous fishing trips as part of the customized sailing agenda. The BVI is home to the famous North Drop above Tortola, which claims the highest number of Blue Marlin strikes per day of anywhere in the World. Schools of Wahoo, Dolphin Fish, Tuna, Sailfish, White Marlin and Kingfish hungrily feed around the Islands. Anegada is one of my favorite islands for diving and snorkeling and is known for some of the finest shallow water and deep-sea fishing in the world. For those interested in fly-fishing, Anegada’s waters offer a wide variety of game fish. Fishermen can spend hours in water eight inches to two feet deep casting into schools of silver bonefish.

Hiking Mountains & Walking Deserted Beaches
While you are on your sailing trip there are many opportunities for walking deserted beaches and great hiking in the BVIs. Some of the National Parks boast rock outcrops and deep gully’s that expose the rich earth of these volcanic islands. If something a bit more relaxed is what you have in mind then there are a number of small deserted islands resembling Botanic Gardens. They offer peaceful walks through tropical vegetation and pathways covered with colorful vines, as well as a miniature forest and beautiful vistas.

Jost Van Dyke, Norman, Virgin Gorda – North Sound are a few of other islands that have a number of unspoiled trails and hills with breathtaking views and mind-blowing panoramas.

Kayaking & Relaxing– Each afternoon we enter a new cove for a peaceful anchorage, but your choice of activities continues. A popular late afternoon activity is to take some snorkeling gear jump in the kayak and go exploring. Another popular choice is to grab a noodle, and a beer then jump off the stern of Mañana Maybe it’s time to relax.

The Party Scene

The Party Scene – On yes, as you enjoy your Caribbean sailing trip you have a wide range of famous and infamous beach bars and party boats. A wide variety of entertainment is offered in the majority of these charming party locations. Your challenge if you want to accept it, is to decide which of the many fun and crazy places you will party at, all with the friendly inviting atmosphere you would expect. To name a few Jolly Rogers, Pirates, Willy-T’s, Emiles, Myett’s, Quito’s, Fat Virgin’s Café, Rock Café, Saba Rock, The Pub Beach Bar, Cow Wreck, Flash of Beauty, Big Bamboo and Foxy’s…..this is the tip of the iceberg.  Get a perzonalized charter plan

Jan 25, 2012

Chartering a boat in the BVI is the ultimate winter escape.  Big boats, little boats, sail boats, power boats, bareboats or fully crewed boats…..you choose your ride. 

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Grey skies, icy winds, January blahs.  The best way to have an attitude adjustment is to pack a weekend bag with a bathing suit, shorts, sandals, sunglasses.  The British Virgin Islands are easy assessable via St. Thomas, Virgin islands or San Juan Porto Rica.  English is the spoken language, the dollar is the currency and the natives are laid back and welcome you to their paradise.

The BVI is world renowned for  sailing and cruising hence there is a huge inventory of boats based here.  The best way to choose your floating hotel is to find a good charter boat broker.  There are many established captains that know the best anchorages, the best restaurants, the best places to party and the hidden secluded beaches.  Snorkeling and diving is awesome in the clear, warm Caribbean water and a knowledgeable captain will guide you to the sites that are not known to the masses.

“Our last trip to the BVI we charted a 44’ catamaran with four cabins, a captain and a chef that created the most delicious entrées.   We were referred to Captain Terry of SailwithTerry by some friends that had an awesome cruising experience.  Captain Terry listened to our preferences and matched us up with a delightful husband and wife team that were in tune to our needs.

We discussed menus with the chef and explained our desire to have an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables and as much seafood as possible. The captain was also a diver and was able to take us to the best dive sites.”

We realized that the success of a Caribbean  sailing vacation could be greatly enhanced by a good Captain and crew. Our Captains do not abandon their guest.  A Captain and crew that are knowledgeable and in tune with your desire and wishes are the recipe to a special sailing vacation.

Enjoy a carefree vacation.  Let Captain Terry arrange your perfect Caribbean Sailing Vacation.

Jan 23, 2012

Wow, talk about having your challenges… Ever since Laura Dekker spent almost a year defending her desire to sail around the world at age 14, she had to overcome a multitude of obstacles put in her path to dissuade her. Yet, above all else she persevered with her dream, and at age 15 Laura set sail to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world. There has been lots of press, positive and negative about her being permitted to experience this adventure. To me she represents spirit of a winner. Be sure and watch the video.

A large part of St Maarten and the sailing community were on hand to deliver a heartfelt welcome to Laura as she returned through a special opening of the Simpson Bay Bridge, accompanied by Coast Guard escorts. Arriving one year and one day after the date she departed on her voyage, she ended her journey at the exact same place she started, the St Maarten Yacht Club. Simpson Bay is where “Manana Maybe” was residing when I purchased her.

Laura and Guppy

Congratulations to Laura on completing a major accomplishment… something that many dream of, but few ever achieve. I’m sure she will become an inspiration to many that have followed her story.  Here is a short video of her welcoming procession as they arrived on Saturday afternoon through the Simpson Bay Bridge.  Please enjoy, and feel free to pass along or share this with anyone else you feel would be interested – sailors or otherwise!

Solo Sailor Laura Dekker Returns to St Martin, SXM, completing her circumnavigation!

January 18, 2012

If you are looking for something unique to put on your bucket list this year why not think a of chartering a sailing vacation in the British Virgin Islands during - The BVI Spring Regatta.   

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

The BVI Spring Regatta is a renowned Caribbean Regatta that draws a huge local and international crowd. There is something for everyone during the weeklong event.   Whether you come to race, cruise or just party you will meet sailors from all over the world.

The event starts on Tortola, BVI at the Nanny Cay Marina on March 26, 2012 and then proceeds to the Bitter End.  Each day there is a party somewhere and each day you will see hundreds  of sailboats on Drake Channel getting ready for the  race to bring home the Glory.  On March 28^th - 29^th eight teams will race IC24’s  to attain worldwide ranking .  March 30^th - April 1 enjoy  world class sailing as  boats jockey for positions and watch the thrilling near misses,  light bumps, big bumps and sometimes when a team pushes the limit there might even be a capsize as they battle  for wind and power.

The easiest way for you to garner the best seat in the house is to sit on your own sail boat charter.  You have a ring side seat while you sip you cocktails, then go on shore for the evening parties and meet the courageous  sailors and listen to the their great stories and adventures and finally in the wee hours of the morning you can dingy back to your floating hotel.

Grab a group of friends,  charter a spacious catamaran or mono hull,  provision with a lot of beverages, snacks and eat your meals at the different venues.  Nanny Cay Marina offers different restaurants as well as booths with food and beverages.

The friendly and knowledge staff at SailwithTerry can assist you in finding the best charter and prices in the BVI. Captain Terry has sailed the islands for years and can give you insight to making this the best sailing vacation ever. Sailwithterry.com email: sailwithterry@gmail.com Phone: 941 266 0296

September 27, 2011

Christmas shopping time is fast approaching.  The dreaded chore of finding the perfect Christmas gift that will put a smile on the face of the special people in your life. 

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Last Christmas I found myself with the usual dilemma; what gift can I get for my family that would be special, memorable and easy?  Then I found the perfect solution.   I found sailwithterry.com on the internet and was mesmerized by the videos and vivid pictures.  The Virgin Islands were easily assessable, only required a passport and of course the weather was in the mid 80’s in the middle of the winter.   I realized that this would be the gift that everyone would be excited about.

I contacted Captain Terry by phone and after listing to our interests he made numerous suggestions for a customized sailing adventure.

A 46’ catamaran offering three private suites complete with a private bath, a large galley and salon, plenty of deck space for sun tanning.  I signed up for a captain and a chef, but was assured that we would be able to participate in the sailing activities as much or as little as we wanted.

A seven (7) day Caribbean sailing vacation in the dead of winter.  My  Christmas shopping was complete and I could not wait  to see the surprised and excited faces on Christmas morning.

I proceeded to accumulate pictures and brochures of the Virgin Islands.  Since there are over 60 islands and cays I thought that it would be fun for everyone to be able to participate and decide which islands to visit.  Captain Terry had suggested several fun activities.  Perhaps a rendezvous with a dive boat for the certified divers and a exploration dive for the novices, spend a day in North Sound complete with pig BBQ at Leverick Bay while enjoying the entertainment of Michael the Pirate, exploring the “Dawned island” Anegada and enjoying a lobster dinner, or just having a laid back day and getting pampered at a European spa complete with a champagne lunch overlooking the beautiful turquoise Caribbean Ocean?

Well, we did it all and it was definitely the best  Christmas ever and also the most memorable vacation for my family.  Especially since we booked our sailing charter in the dead of winter when all of our friends and neighbors were trying to hide from the cold, freezing weather.

Plan early, contact Captain Terry at sailwithterry@gmail.com or phone him today 941 266 0296.