Tag Archive: caribbean vacation

Caribbean Sailing Vacation – Dancing with the Moon 

June 21 2011

The Adams family Caribbean sailing vacation adventures continue as they set sail for Trellis Bay and a night of festivities celebrating the Full Moon.

Our sailing vacation continues with all hands on deck as the mooring lines are released, sails go up and we are on our way to our next anchorage.

Captain Terry has briefed us on our next sailing adventure … Destination Trellis Bay, Beef Island. Trellis Bay is connected to the main island of Tortola by a small bridge and is located at the northeastern end of the island.

Our goal is to arrive early as this anchorage is the popular place to be for Full Moon parties. Well someone forgot to tell the wind guru and we are facing southerly winds which make it ideal if you are sailing to Jost Van Dyke but not to Trellis Bay.  Captain Terry gives us a review course on tacking and we are ready to engage.

Everyone has a position to man.  John and I take the first round with Sarah at the helm.  Position, check lines, ready to come about, releases.  Speed is the essence of a successful  “coming about” .  Basically we are bringing the foresail to the other side of the boat to catch some wind. “ Tacking” as this called is the  method a sailboat uses to get to a destination when the winds are blowing from the  direction you want to go.  Yes, you zig zag back and forth and yes it does take a while.

The Adams family has stepped up to the job and the next time that we tack, Emily and Melody are going to handle the sheets while John turns the boat away into the wind.  This is all about team work and timing and the girls are intent on beating the boys.  Great job but the boys are still ahead by 5 seconds!

The competition is fierce but the bragging rights go the boys as we approach Trellis Bay.  Sailboats of all sizes and styles are jockeying for a mooring ball.  The balls appear to be set a little closer than in previous anchorages and I am again thankful for the steady hand and experience of our Captain Terry .  The atmosphere is festive as the anticipation for the full moon party intensifies.  Dinghies are running to shore and greetings can be heard from the boats.  Music carries over the water and we sit back as sail boats stream in through the channel threading their way through the moored boats looking for an opening and a mooring ball or a place to drop an anchor.  I think this is going to be a fun night!

Lunch time and we jump into the dingy and head for Trellis Bay.  The buildings are quaint and primitive; little shops, bars, internet café, restaurants.  We find a table outside at the Better Cup of Coffee and enjoy a local beverage, ginger beer for children and icy cold Caribe for adults.  The bread is homemade and the sandwiches are delicious.

After lunch a stroll around the island, my eyes catch the sight of a huge hammock strung between two shade trees and I make a bee line for my siesta.    Sarah and the children explore the island and visit the large local art gallery.  There are beautiful works created by local artists.  Pottery, baskets, sculptors, paintings and of course the huge intricately sculpted metal balls that are being filled with wood for the full moon party.

John spots a sail board and has signed up for paddle board lessons.  Emily and Melody continue their quest for t shirts and Sarah joins me in the hammock.  A little snooze in the warm, balmy breeze, visions of a new adventure.  A full moon party!  Another hard day in the islands!

Check out sailwithterry.com and see the pictures of the Full Moon parties.  Email Captain Terry:   sailiwthterry@gmail.com and schedule your Caribbean sailing vacation for the next full moon party.   941 266 0296

 

Sailing Vacation – Questions, Concerns, Fears

May 5, 2011

How often have you thought of escaping your cluttered, chaotic life and setting off on a sail boat into the blue horizon?

Why not experience this adventure on a sail boat charter in the Virgin Islands?  The Virgin Islands are known as the sailing capital of the world. Sunny weather, warm trade winds, and a chain of islands ready for you to explore.

Frequently asked questions, concerns and fears:

Will we be sailing on open water?

No!   The Virgin Islands are comprised of a chain of over 60 islands and cays visible at any given time.

 

What happens if a storm comes up?

Tropical storms usually last for a short while, are mild with very little lightening.  Your experienced Captain will guide you to a protected anchorage.

 

Will I get seasick?

Captain Terry has sailed these waters for many years and no one has been seriously sick.  Precautions can be taken with bands and patches.  If someone feels nauseous, a short dingy ride to land or a swim usually solves any issues.

 

What about the pirates on the seas?

There are NO pirates in the Caribbean.  Well, maybe a few” wanna be’s” at the local bar.

 

What size boat should I charter?

When you hire Captain Terry he will advise you on the boat that fits your criteria.  Perhaps a monohull with each cabin having its private head or maybe a catamaran that is much roomier than a traditional sail boat.

 

What about food?  Drinking the water?

Most charterers enjoy preparing some of the meals on board and then going ashore for dinner on the various islands and trying out the local ambience and cuisine.   Groceries are ordered in advance via internet at the local grocery and delivered and stored prior to your arrival. Water is safe to drink

 

What islands will we visit?

Captain Terry will brief you on the different islands and safe anchorages according to your likes.  Is your goal to find a different party each night?  Are you looking for upscale dining or spas? Perhaps some hidden beaches and quiet anchorages where you can just jump from the boat and swim and snorkel.

 

What about the language?  Currency?

The language is English, currency American, and the locals are friendly and entertaining.

 

Will I be confined on a boat all the time?

No.  The snorkeling is world renown and there are numerous stops at great coral reefs with hundreds of colorful tropical fish.  You can rendezvous with a dive boat and explore a sunken ship wreck.  Perhaps you want to rent a paddle board or sail board and take a lesson for the day.  A day of hiking on Virgin Gorda will show you breath taking panoramic views of the islands and the turquoise Caribbean.  Or maybe a pamper day at one of the upscale European spas complete with a champagne lunch on the beach.

 

Ok. No more procrastinating time for a sailing vacation.   Check out Caribbean Sailing Vacation and see some of the many guests have enjoyed the Caribbean under the experienced guidance of Captain Terry.  Email him at sailwithterry@gmail.com or phone 941 266- 0296.  He can answer any questions , concerns  or fears.

Sailing Vacation, What’s in your Bucket List?

March 13, 2011

Shuck the snow boots!  Throw off the hats, gloves, all those cumbersome layers and get ready for fun in the sun.

Sailing vacation in the Caribbean are the best way to recover from those dreary, cold, frozen winter days.

It’s time to check out some fun sailing options in the sailing capital of the world:  The British Virgin Islands.   The BVI is very accessible from either St. Thomas or San Juan,   the official language is English, the dollar is king and the people are very friendly.   Consistent balmy trade winds, average daily temperature  in the 80’s,  clear turquoise water,  a chain of islands offering a different safe anchorage each evening.

Charter the sailboat of your dreams, perhaps a sleek monohull;  sails up, you are at the helm, the rail is in the water and  you are the master of your destiny.

Maybe you would like to try something different or perhaps you are thinking creature comforts. Check out  one of the spacious catamarans and bring the party with you.

More choices:  Do you want to be totally engaged and charter a “captain only” trip,  an all-inclusive complete with gourmet chef or something in between where you might want to try out the local restaurants.

Check out : www.sailwithterry.com for some awesome pictures and videos.  Captain Terry  will guide you in planning the perfect Caribbean sailing vacation.   Be it monohull  or catamaran,  Captain Terry can find the best vessel to fit your dream vacation and then will show  you  all of the exciting islands, the best snorkeling spots and of course the restaurants and island parties.

Sailwithterry@gmail.com

Caribbean Sailing Vacations – Sailing for the Full Moon

Feb 24, 2011

World Famous Full Moon Parties

The British Virgin Islands are world renown for “Sailing Vacations”.  Sunny skies, crystal clear turquoise water,  numerous interesting islands,  private coves, beaches and consistent trade winds  make the BVI the ultimate destination for chartering a sailboat.

Spend a day on the 51’ Mañana Maybe sailing Drake’s Channel, snorkeling natures aquariums, diving long buried ship wrecks. As evening approaches there is excitement in the air.  It is Full Moon Party Time!

Tortola has two hot spots where you can dance all night and howl at the moon.  On the west end of the island is the Bomba Shack.  This location is just a shack on the beach but wow! what a party.  Locals and guests come from everywhere to worship the full moon and attend this legendary party.  Local music and lots of mushroom tea will make this a memorable event.

At the east end of Tortola at Trellis Bay there is also a party starting. The anchorage at Trellis Bay fills up the day before and the party starts.  As the evening of the full moon party approaches, the sound of dinghy’s cutting across the water can be heard amidst the music and laughter.

The full moon party at Trellis Bay usually starts around 7:00 with a West Indian Buffet, and lots of adult beverages, Live fungi music, fire jugglers, pottery firings, are all part of the festivities.  As the moon rises so does the tempo of the music and soon the Mocko Jumbies  (natives on stilts) can be seen approaching.    It is dark now, everyone is dancing and then the most dramatic event occurs.  Huge metal sculptures loaded with fire wood are ignited on the beach.  The party goes on to the wee hours of the morning.  Luckily there are huge hammocks for those who  decide to sleep on the beach.

As the dinghy’s depart to go to their sailboats,  the glow of the fire balls can be seen , the moon is high in the sky and  there is a feeling of peace.  All is well.  Another moon.  Another month.

Visit sailwithterry.com and schedule your sailing vacation in the Caribbean around the full moon.  This is a party you will remember for the rest o of your life.  Captain Terry will help you plan this memorable vacation trip.  Contact the Captain at sailwithterry@gmail.com .

Girlfriend Getaways with a Sailing Theme, Girls’ Night Out

Many people dream of sailing adventures, but think they might be out of their reach. Then they get engaged and think this is it, their big chance. Sadly, the man they love with all of their heart, the man they will be spending the rest of their lives with, is so seasick he gets queasy in a bathtub. But he is thrilled to death to give you the gift of what you want most: the gift of the best of girlfriend getaways on the beautiful blue Caribbean seas. Hiring a sailing charter lets you and your gal pals relax on board a beautiful sailboat, soaking up the sun, drinking a few cocktails and, of course, dishing the dirt.

girlfriend getaways sailing

girlfriend getaways

There are too many things to do in our busy lives these days, so it is absolutely vital that we find some way of relaxing, some way of winding down. Researchers say that just looking at water, even a small pond, can make you less stressed and more relaxed. If that much is true, then imagine how well a sailing charter will work for you and your friends. Girlfriend getaways are becoming more and more popular these days as more and more women are ready, willing and able to get together and have a vacation that is more memorable and more spectacular than anything they could come up with at home.
If you are interested in your own girlfriend getaways or Caribbean vacations, your first step is to have a look at the right charter company.  Check out Sail with Terry for some ideas of what to expect from your sailing charter and you can also get an idea of how much your trip will cost you by looking at their various Pricing Packages. Finally, if you still need a little more inspiration or you aren’t sure that a sailing vacation is what you want, check out the gorgeous pictures here at picture gallery.

Sailing Holiday-A Great Family Vacation

Sailing Holidays -A Great Family Vacation Idea
Sometimes it’s tough to leave the comfort of a habit or routine. For example many of us just like to take the traditional family vacation. So, rather than being daring and adventurous,  we prefer to stick with hotels, beaches, disney parks, museums, monuments, etc. Sometimes its good to break the mold and look for something new and exciting. Maybe its time to plan a special Caribbean vacation by taking a economical and private sailing trip.
Sailing holidays are a great way to explore the islands and seas around us while having quality family bonding time. There is no shortage of places to sail if you wish to plan a sailing holiday vacation. You can contact SailWithTerry and get personalized planning advise about all aspects of your sailing vacation.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sailaway from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Join the trend of many families that are taking a sailing holiday.  Last season we had families from Califorina, Canada, Norway, Russia, Wisconsin, Georgia, Maine, and Denver taking a sailing vacation. Imagine you are with your family all together on a family sailing vacation. The excitement of the entire family being together on a private sailing yacht island hopping learning to sail and snorkel/dive together makes for a very special times and memories. You can celebrate birthdays, anniversaries,graduations and a family sail-away vacation.

Hi Terry,

“Crew” Nelson had a fantastic week together as a family with Captain Terry and his wife Ingrid.  With everyone working now, it is hard to coordinate a whole week together with everyone’s schedule.  So we all thoroughly enjoyed spending 7 days exploring islands, snorkeling every day, learning to sail, and just relaxing with our family.  Everyone claimed it was the best vacation of their lives, and while there were many highlights during the week, I think all would agree the whole week was a fantastic adventure.  And we have over 1200 pictures to prove it!

Thanks,
Mary

Nelson Family

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.

Caribbean Sailing Charters, Lets Bring the Captain

It is the time of the year when a sailing vacation dream becomes a reality. This year make the Caribbean your Winter Wonderland.

Planning for your sailing vacation now insures you the peace of mind that you have secured your optimum dates, the best charter boat, and the most knowledgeable captain. Especially when you make your plans directly with the Captain.

Location: The British Virgin Islands are a world-renowned sailing destination. A chain of islands that offer calm waters, safe anchorages and nightly restaurants and entertainment.

Sailing Season: Although many sailors stay in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) year round, the actual sailing season starts after the hurricane window. Middle November through May is the most popular time, however many guests opt for June and July to celebrate the end of the school year.

Choosing The Right Charter Boat: Small is not always less money. Sail With Terry offers a 51’, 4 cabin Beneteau sail boat for the same price as many smaller sail boats. Captain Terry has four (4) pricing plans for you to choose from.

Captain vs Bare Boat: You have honed your sailing skills. You have sailed the lake for years. So enjoy your sailing vacation. Let the captain steer you to the best moorings, the secret snorkeling spots, the secluded anchorages with private beaches, and calm waters in the wake of a sudden storm. You can have shooters at Willi T’s, wine and dine at gourmet restaurants, dance with the mucko jumbies till dawn. Captain Terry will make sure that you do not run aground and avoid costly mistakes sailing in waters that you are not familiar with.

When choosing your chartered sailboat with a captain you can sail as much as you like but when it is time to relax, the captain is there to take over for you.

Yacht Charter

Sailboat Charter

Why The British Virgin Islands are the Perfect Place for a Caribbean Adventure
-Sailboat Charter-SailingWithTerry-

SailWithTerry

Both on and off the yacht charter, your Virgin Island Adventure, Sailing with Terry will be unforgettable! The combination of water based and land based activities will keep you as active as you desire.

* Learn new skills on a yacht charter sailing, snorkeling and diving
* Be active kayaking, hiking and walking deserted beaches
* Be inactive relax, read a new book or lay in the hammock
* Its your personalized agenda

Why the Virgin Islands is among the world’s best sailing areas

* Perfect sailing trade winds and protected anchorages
* Natural beauty on the islands and below the water
* A vibrant modern culture with a unique Caribbean history
* Privacy or partying, you decide!
* Always in sight of land always safe from rough seas
* Easy to fly to and safe to visit.

Sailing Conditions

Through a unique combination of geology and geography, the British Virgin Islands boast some of the best sailing grounds in the world with steady trade winds, averaging 10-15 mph from the northeast, with insignificant currents and tidal range. There are almost 60 islands and cays (also pronounced keys) in the Virgin Islands. See map of islands that shows the short sail from one another. You are always in sight of land and safe harbour.

BVI Map

These islands offer protection from ocean swells and provide hundreds of protected coves and anchorages for swimming, snorkeling, diving, going ashore, or just lounging on the boat.

Caribbean Nature

Hawksbill

Caribbean Nature

The natural world of the Virgin islands is one its greatest draws. The islands are mostly volcanic in origin and are great for hiking with dramatic landscapes and vistas.

The clarity of the water and the shallow depth of many of the reefs provides world class snorkeling and scuba diving. While snorkeling or diving you will see numerous tropical fish and you will inevitably have a chance to view sightings of manta rays, tarpon, nurse sharks, barracudas, Octopuses’, moray eels and several species of endangered sea turtles.

The islands’ animal life includes deer, wild donkeys, goats and mongoose. Reptiles including anole and gecko lizards and the famous 6 foot long rock iguanas of Anegada, and birds. Over 200 species of birds have been accounted for in the Virgin Islands.

Activities

Dive Karen

Virgin Island Activities

Here are a few favorites.

Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving:

In addition to all the exciting sailing you will be doing on your trip, chances are one of your main goals of visiting the Virgin Islands is to enjoy swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving in the warm water. You will not be disappointed. You can swim from your yacht anytime and the beaches in the Virgin Islands are all open to the public (except on a few private islands).

Hiking: The Virgin Islands are a Mecca for hikers.

Bird Watching: Bird lovers will delight in the diversity and abundance of bird life the Virgin Islands has to offer. The best spots being the salt pond of Anegada and the mountain tops of Tortola.

Privacy & Relaxation: When you need to get away from it all, the Virgin Islands offer numerous secluded anchorages and quiet white sand beaches.

The Virgin Islands also offer exceptional snorkeling in shallow calm waters and over 100 outstanding dive sites. The water is exceptionally clear (visibility often exceeding 100 ft) and temperatures range from 76-84°F (24-29°C) year round. SailWithTerry will provide you with snorkel gear and instruction and will bring you to our favorite snorkel spots. For scuba divers we can easily arrange for a dive boat to pick you up at our anchorage and take you diving. See the Nature section above to learn about what you may see in the waters of the Virgin Islands.

Surfing and Windsurfing: The winter months bring steady swells to the exposed sides of the islands, and the surfing community knows just where to catch the waves. Windsurfing is also very popular in the Virgin Islands.

Fishing: We can arrange a rendezvous fishing trip for some of the best sports and fly fishing in the Caribbean.

There are sooo many.

Partying

Party

BVI Partying

The Virgin Islands are legendary for their good times and the continuous celebration of life usually includes all classes and races mixing as easily as the blender drinks do. You will find yourself partying with other yachters, local islanders, the rich and famous and backpackers.

If you like dancing barefoot in the sand to great recorded and live music, the island’s beach bars are for you. World famous beach bars include Foxy’s Tamarind Bar (Jost Van Dyke), Bomba’s Surfside Shack (Tortola) and the Schooner Willie T’s (Norman’s Island) and countless others. Make sure you try the various island concoctions like Painkillers, Rum Punches and everyone’s favorite, Pina Coladas! Things get especially wild on full moon nights! Beware the Magic Mushroom Tea in the BVI.

Practical Reasons

In addition to the numerous undeveloped and natural islands,  Tortola is well developed with all the amenities you can hope for. Some practical reasons for setting your vacation in the Virgin Islands include:

* Major international airports and daily flights to the US.
* All islands use the US dollar as currency.
* English is the official language of the Virgin Islands
* The islands are generally very safe and have first world hygienic and law enforcement standards.
* Excellent medical facilities.
* Great duty free shopping opportunities.
* Lots of services that you as a traveler may need, including internet cafes, drugstores, etc.

Kindest Regards,Captain Terry
Toll Free 888-679-SAIL (7245)
Cell 941-266-0296
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sailaway from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain