Tag Archive: bvi sailing

Caribbean Sailing Vacation – Fantasy Sailing Vacations | Chapter 8

March 12, 2012

Seal Dog, Mosquito Island, Neckar Island, Prickly Pear, the Dogs, Cock Roach Island in the British Virgin Islands? What is this all about? Fantasy Sailing Vacation.

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Morning approaches and Captain Jeffery and his first mate, Heidi, are preparing our exit from North Sound. Lines released, engines started and we glide out of the mooring field before the world wakes up. Hugo and I are enjoying a leisure morning with breakfast in bed. It is our last day and our last night and we are sad to be leaving this Caribbean paradise. Every day blue skies, sun shine, crystal clear warm water and a new adventure around every corner. A gentle breeze and the sails are hoisted. We finally surface from our deluxe cabin and are briefed on the next destination. Green Cay: a small 14 acre uninhabited island covered with native flora and a beautiful white sandy beach.

Our 44’ catamaran, “Mardi Gras” is cutting through the waves as we see numerous islands dotting the turquoise ocean. Jeffery points out an out cropping of rocks, known as the Dogs. A short stop, we grab our snorkel gear and set out to see some of the most amazing coral and sea life in the ocean. There is so much to see and each snorkel site offers a different view. So many tropical fish varieties we can’t wait to get back on the boat to look at our chart and identify the species.

Soon we our under sail again and Jeffery points out the different islands; Neckar Island is privately owned by the famous creator of Virgin Air,…Richard Branson, then comes Prickly Pear, Mosquito , Cockroach island and finally we see Green Cay. A short snorkel to the sandy beach and then we venture on a hike around the island. The local vegetation is interesting and different from anything we have ever seen. Upon our return Jeffery and Heidi have set up a picnic lunch on the beach and we enjoy a leisure rest.

Resting was good, our next destination is Jost Van Dyke, a small island of about 225 inhabitants and it appears that time has stood still. Jeffery threads the needle as we come in to the narrow channel at White Bay. This is home to the famous Soggy Dollar bar and we know where the name came from. There are no dinghy docks so we jump over and swim to the bar and are greeted by large group of cruisers from Spain. The BVI is a favorite vacation destination for the international set and of course the common language is English and everyone understands the meaning of fun. White Bay has a beautiful white sandy beach and is dotted with numerous quaint beach bars, each have a differing ambiance and bringing a new meaning to the words “pub crawl”. Great hamburgers, pain killers, tequila shooters, rum runners. There is music and dancing and as the sun is setting the tempo increases. More boats are coming in and the party is jumping. A fitting last night of my fantasy vacation.

It is hard to believe that just over seven days ago we were freezing in sleet and dreary,  overcast weather. This has truly been the best vacation ever. No crowds, no agenda, beautiful weather, great crew, quiet times, party time, gourmet meals in a spectacular setting. The natives are friendly and speak English.

Hugo and I have decided that we will make this an annual event. Hugo made one call to Sail With Terry LTD and the trip was arranged. Captain Terry was able to find us the perfect boat and crew for our romantic fantasy vacation. Next year will ask Captain Terry to plan an adventure sailing charter so that we can sail, dive, paddle board and kite sail. Perhaps we will invite some friends and charter a huge boat.

Love, from the islands

Sailing Vacation – Fantasy Sailing Vacation, Chapter 6

Feb 21 2012

Each day is a new adventure sailing on our crewed 44’ Catamaran in the beautiful British Virgin Islands. So many islands to explore, so little time.

Hawksbill Turtle

Hawksbill Turtle

Another day in paradise. The skies are blue, sun is brilliant and the azure water is clear and warm. Today we are rendezvousing with a dive boat, Hugo will go on an adventure scuba dive and I will be going with my guide for a beginner resort dive. Our dive boat from UBS Divers pulls up to our floating hotel and we are whisked away. After instructions of basic diving procedures and precautions my guide, Katie slowly takes me below the surface. It is both scary and exciting. To swim right alongside with hundreds of tropical of fish. I saw sting rays, several huge groupers and schools of tropical fish.The feeling of weightlessness and the freedom of movement is awesome. I can’t wait to get home and become fully certified for next year. Hugo has gone on another boat with several other certified divers to dive the R.S. Rhone. This is a famous wreck dive and a must dive for anyone visiting the BVI.

Later we meet on the deck of Mardi Gras and Heidi has prepared a fabulous lunch and are we hungry after our dive. We enjoyed teriyaki shrimp salad on a bed of lettuce, crab cakes with the best tarragon sauce and of course the daily fare of French baguettes, cheeses and dairy fresh butter plus a chilled bottle of pinot grigio

A nice breeze and we sail to our evening destination. We have decided to anchor at Diamond Cay, a quiet secluded cove and enjoy a moonlit gourmet dinner. We are the only boat in this large cove, the water is so clear we can see the sandy bottom and the fish and turtles swim by as we sit on the deck. Anchorage is tricky because the coral heads are not far below and we do not want to anchor on top of them. Jeffry, with the help of his new fist mate, Hugo, sets the anchor perfectly and we are good for the night.

A short dingy ride to the beach to watch the sunset and then an evening of relaxation. Sounds of jazz float out to us as we return. Heidi is setting the table with candles and flowers. A dinner of roasted rack of lamb awaits us.

Another day in paradise. Diving, swimming, sunsets, fabulous dinner and now we lay on the trampoline netting and try to count the zillions of stars and name the consultations. I feel so removed from my real world. All is quiet and peaceful, just the gentle sounds of the waves and Hugo beside me. What a perfect fantasy sailing vacation.

Planning is the key to a successful Fantasy Caribbean vacation. The right boat, the right crew is essential. Sail with Terry Charters has years of on hands experience in these beautiful Caribbean waters. Firsthand knowledge of boats and crews insures the perfect Caribbean Sailing Vacation.

 

A Caribbean Sailing Trip is All about the Integration of Fun Activities

Jan 27, 2012

Caribbean Sailing

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

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

Caribbean Sailing Vacation – Festival Sailing Vacation

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

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 28th - 29th eight teams will race IC24’s  to attain worldwide ranking .  March 30th - 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

Sailing Vacation – Time for a Warm Escape on Your Sailboat Charter

Dec 7, 2010

Sailing Vacation

Sailing Vacation

Arctic blasts are coming and everyone is thinking: Sun, Blue Skies, Beaches! An escape on a sailing vacation in the Caribbean is the perfect place for getting some vitamin D and a beautiful tan. Winter in the islands is the high season with temperatures ranges in the mid 80’s without humidity.

The British Virgin Islands are a top destination for Caribbean Vacation. Easily accessible, friendly English speaking people, stable government, US currency and a necklace of multiple islands each offering a different ambiance. The ideal and most popular method of enjoying the Caribbean Islands is by chartering a sailboat, usually with an experienced captain. Most charters offer a choice of “Captain Only” or “All inclusive” which includes gourmet meals served by an experienced chef. If you are looking for a laid back sailing vacation with no time constraints, no firm agenda, then “Captain Only” should be your choice. You are in charge of your vacation. The captain will show you the great snorkeling spots, hidden beaches, safe anchorages and keep you from running aground. You decide where you sail each day, where to stop, and how long to stay. Meal preparations are not the main focus. Breakfast is casual and eaten on the deck of the boat. You savor that first cup of coffee or juice as you look out onto the blue horizon and realize that you have awakened in Paradise. Lunch is a light meal enjoyed during a sail to another island or perhaps a cheese burger at a beach bar. Dinner is often preceded by happy hour on the deck of the boat and than a short dingy ride to a restaurant. This maybe a casual island restaurant offering local grilled lobster or an epicurean experience at one of the internationally renowned resorts.

Sailing in the BVI is stress free. A ring of beautiful islands offers easy accessibility to land where you can enjoy shopping, hiking, exploring, or just sitting on a beach chair enjoying an island beverage, also know as “pain killers”. Evenings offer local entertainment or just sitting on the deck of your sailboat gazing at the billions of stars. Catch the falling star and make your special wish.

Visit WWW. Sailwithterry.com and view the picture gallery of great islands to visit and a guide to planning your perfect Caribbean Sailing Vacation. Contact Captain Terry at sailiwithterry@gmail.com and he will help you escape that cold, frigid winter.

Sailing Vacations…Don’t Be left Out in The Cold

Nov 28, 2010

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Caribbean Sailing Vacation

Most people think sunny skies, Caribbean Ocean, sandy beaches and sails blowing in the wind right after the hectic holiday season.  We all need a break from shopping, visiting,  office parties, traffic, cooking, decorating and the cold.

January is the most popular month to escape to the  British Virgin  islands so consider sailing vacations. Usually old man winter has  blown in some icy weather, snow covering the banks, and dreary windy days follow.

Don’t be left out in the cold.  Now is the time to start researching and booking that perfect Caribbean sailing vacation.

The BVI is known as the sailing vacation capital of the world and this is not a guarded secret.  Large sailboat flotillas and mega yachts from the Greek Islands converge to this area of the world in the winter.   The British Virgin Islands consist of a chain of over 60 islands each offering a different ambience.  You can enjoy an evening on Virgin Gorda wearing your bathing suit and flip flops while dancing with the Mucko Jumbies and  grazing through an open buffet complete with a fully roasted pig.  Perhaps  you would prefer to indulge yourself and have an elegant gourmet dinner at the newest upscale resort, Scrub Island.

Planning ahead is essential to stress free sailing vacations.  Passports are required  in the BVI, however the language is English and the currency is American dollars.

There are numerous marinas and hundreds of different sailboats to choose.  Prices range from $50,000.00 per week to under $6500.00 per week depending on the size and type of boat and which amenities are desired.

To get the full experience with out stress it is recommend to charter a boat with a captain.   This allows you to man your own boat if you wish but only an experienced captain will know were the safe anchorages are located as well as all of the best snorkeling spots.  To know where to find the best cheeseburger in paradise, the best dive boats, where to make reservations for special occasions and of course the best places to party as well as the secluded beaches.

Visit Sailwithterry.com for a picture gallery of the BVI.  Captain Terry  can customize your stress free sailing vacation.   You can also speak with him directly at 1-284-342-6487.

Sailing Vacations are All about the Integration of Fun Activities, Partying and Relaxing

Nov 24, 2010

Sailing & Diving Vacation

Sailing & Diving Vacation

The BVI has 50+ beautiful islands and cays very close to each other so you are always in sight of land. The chain of islands shaped like a necklace offers numerous safe harbors and protected anchorages. This sailing paradise offers daily chooses in activities on the water, in the water and under the water.

Diving/SnorkelingSailing vacations in the BVI and Caribbean offer 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 vacation 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 as the BVI is a sailor’s paradise. The crystal clear waters, peaceful anchorages, constant trade winds and deserted coves provide the environment for special sailing vacations. 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 trip 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 50+ 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

Sailing Vacations in the BVI are not limited to water activities. 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 – 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.

Sailing and Diving in the BVI

Nov 8, 2010

diving in bvi

diving in bvi

There are great diving opportunities while on a sailing vacation in the BVI. The majority of the 75+ dive sites are not over 75 feet deep and make for relaxing and beautiful diving. While most of the dive sites are not deep or demanding, we can arrange for advanced diver a number of challenging dives. With minimal tide fluctuation the conditions are normally quite calm so that at most the sites we normally don’t have dangerous currents. Since we are just 18º N of the equator the weather is tropical and you are almost certain of beautiful and fun diving. On a sailing vacation you can take a discovery dive if you are not certified diver. This is a great introduction to the world under the sea and a inexpensive way to decide if you want to become a certified diver.

There is an abundance of sea life and coral where ever you are diving. Manta rays, Caribbean nurse sharks,  and spotted eagle rays are not uncommon in the British Virgin Islands, but you will mostly enjoy an incredible number and variety of reef fish. Its not unusual to see huge grouper and snapper, green and spotted morays, turtles and rays, plus lots of tangs, jacks, pompano, spade fish, permits and of course large silver tarpon.

diving

diving

The waters of the British Virgin Islands are protected under the National Parks Trust. It is a top priority for all divers to protect the natural abundance of the reefs. The result is, divers enjoy healthy reefs with an enormous variety of fish. Mooring buoys minimize reef damage and regulations prohibit damaging or removing any plant or animal, keeping the reefs packed with life. Spear fishing is forbidden and the use of gloves discouraged. Visibility is normally in the 40 to 80 feet range, and at times of light wind can be 100 feet, plus. The water temperature stays between 77º and 82º F most of the year.

The combination of a great natural setting, man made regulations and conscience divers makes the BVI a diving paradise. What a vacation great sailing and diving as you go from island to island and reef to reef..

Sailing Vacation in the British Virgin Island

Take a Sailing Vacation in the British Virgin Island

Charter Your Private Yacht with an Experienced  Captain.

Planning the perfect sailing vacation in the BVI is a simple task when you go to the web site of Captain Terry.

Captain Terry is a professional captain who owns his own sailing vessel, a shinny 51’ Beneteau , Mañana Maybe has with four staterooms, each with a private head and vanity.  Captain Terry is the owner and operator, he makes sure that the boat is spotless, well maintained and ready for your arrival. After planning with Captain Terry the type of special sailing vacation you want he is now ready to make it happen.

When you visit the web site SailWithTerry.com you will see the spacious interior, galley and great seating area on deck.  There is a large dingy to transport you directly to the various islands, restaurants, and snorkeling spots. The dingy runs on your schedule and to your destinations.

Do not be overwhelmed in planning your ultimate sailing vacation.  A visit to the site or a personal phone call to Captain Terry can answer all of your questions and concerns.  Assistance and suggestions with travel arrangements to Tortola, BVI, perhaps a few nights stay in a resort or quaint hotel at the end of your sailing charter.

As you view the web site you will notice four different pricing options.  The  most popular and budget oriented plan for your seven day sailing charter is the “Captain Only ” plan. You will be chartering a 51’ sailboat with a captain.   If you wish to learn  to sail or to enhance your sailing skills or just become comfortable sailing on open water versus lakes this plan is for you. It removes the stress and worry that you have when chartering a bareboat.   The captain knows the right anchorage and sailing options to go to in the event of swells from the north that can occur in the winter months when the sailing is at the optimum. A knowledgeable captain can guide you to the lesser known snorkeling spots, secluded beaches and of course the captain always knows where the best parties and restaurants are located.

Captain Terry  is experienced, very upbeat and patient.   He will personally guide you through the best snorkel spots and caves while pointing out exotic fish and coral.  A captain that you can trust…Captain Terry on Mañana Maybe.

Vacation dates for the 2010-2011 season are booking up fast.  Reserve your Caribbean sailing vacation now and when the cold winds blow and ice is everywhere,  you will be working on a tan in the BVI.

BVI Sailing Charter and Kite Surfing

BVI Sailing Adventures by Chartering a Sailboat

Dreaming of  escaping to a deserted island or sailing  the crystal aqua waters of the BVI in the Caribbean?

One of the most relaxing and stress free vacations is to charter a sailboat in the BVI.  You have  transportation to a different island each day, sail to top snorkeling spots, quaint beach restaurants, shopping and  fun beach bars where after a few pain killers   (local concoction) everyone from around the world is your new best friend and  best of all at the end of the night you have your own floating hotel room.

Each day you can choose a different adventure.  If you are an adrenalin junkie you might want to check out Kite Surfing. There are several locations to rent  equipment and also take lesson.

Kite Surfing is a water sport in which the rider  is pulled through the waves on a surf board while being propelled by a large controllable kite.  The British Virgin Islands are a great destination to engage in this sport.  Steady trade winds, warm sunny weather and great beaches equal a dream vacation..

Sir Richard Bronson, who resides on his own island in the BVI,  Necker Island, has been a great supporter  and sponsor of this extreme sport. Often while sailing by Necker Island,  several kites can be seen around Eustatia Sound. Sir Richard as been quoted as saying, “Kite Surfing is one of my favorite sports”

Chartering your sailboat with a local captain is a great option for the avid, experienced kite surfer.  Each day you decide where you want go, what you want to do and sail to your destination.  For the novice this is an excellent method of trying out a new sport on your vacation while still  enjoying sailing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, beach combing and exploring.

Visit SailWithTerry.com and check out the spacious accommodations on Mañana Maybe. Gather your family and friends, book your Caribbean adventure vacation with Captain Terry or call him personally for a customized sailing vacation.