Every charter yacht attending this Boat Show is quietly saying, “Pick me as your favorite charter yacht to promote to your charter guests who book vacations this next season!” 

Whether you hear those words this week or not, that is the reason why every detail has been attended to on each yacht so it is presented in it’s best possible condition.  And you will notice that the crews look very sharp in their charter yacht “uniforms”.   Some of the crews are new to this game called “a Boat Show”.  So, VICL Director Erik  and your Board of Directors took the time to provide each of the crews a suggested action list in preparation for a successful Boat Show.  Randy and Shelly from Three Moons  just passed this list on to me for your enjoyment.  You will not believe what each of the crews have gone through to make sure their yacht sparkles and shines.  Here is the crew’s suggested action list.

“First impressions at each Boat Show are critical.  One charter yacht show does not a successful season make; a bad show appearance can hurt you for this season and seasons to come!  Here are our best suggestions from years of preparing yachts for charter boat shows.  Your preparation will be the best investment you will make all year to the success of your business.” 

• Have the yacht “charter ready”.  Make sure all the drawers and lockers in each cabin are clean. Brokers will check your standard for cleanliness and order aboard your yacht. There should be absolutely no loose gear in sight. This means everything unnecessary needs to be stowed away in lockers, moved off the boat, decks cleaned, etc. This means no hoses, lines, gear tackle, motor scooters, buckets, ex-wives/ex-husbands, etc. lying around. Get a storage locker if you have to!
• Provide brochures, crew profiles and menu inserts for the brokers visiting your yacht. Remind the Brokers that more are available through you clearing house. Also, have your guest book, letter and pictures from your past guests out for the Brokers to see.
• Fresh flowers are not required; but they are a nice touch.
• Linens on the beds should be crisp and smooth. Matching towels in the heads or on the beds are a nice touch. Set a dinner place for two to show off your beautiful diner settings. Be sure to leave space at the table for a Broker or two to sit around and use for note taking.
• Have your polishing, painting and varnishing DONE! Put all supplies away
• No laundry, towels, rags, etc. hanging on the life lines. No garbage on board or on the dock.
• No deliveries of provisions or equipment during the show. If you must provision, leave the show early.
• Make it easy to board as possible with a clear route from the boarding site to the cockpit and/or below.
• Ask a friend to take a “sniff test” of your yacht. There may be an odor you might not notice; but the Broker will.
• Speaking of scents, have something baking in the oven for a welcoming aroma. Be careful not to burn anything! The new little fans that circulate scents from an electrical outlet are great. You want the yacht to smell as good as it looks.
• Details count! Little folded points on the bathroom toilet tissue, a mint on the pillow, mock mementos with charter guest names are all little details that make a big impact. Have some recent photos of guest having fun. Make sure every light bulb works and have as many of them on as you can without heating up the yacht. Lighting will show the yacht off to its best advantage.

 Other General Suggestions:

• Plan ahead. Think about what you want to emphasize about yourself/your yacht and crew. Decide what type of charters you want to promote. Do you want to do more charters with children, honey-mooners, hard-core divers, big time sailors or real high-end gourmet charters? The Brokers will want to know. Think about answers to the tough questions. Brokers will ask questions such as, “What was your worst charter? Tell me about a charter that didn’t turn out well. What did you learn from it? Why won’t happen again? What was your best charter?” Have the answers ready ahead of time.
• Smokers- Be discreet about smoking as possible. This includes smoking during social events. Remember than many restaurants stateside no longer allow smoking. If you allow smoking aboard the yacht, have clean ashtrays for the Brokers.
• Politics- Go easy! There are some strong opinions and this is not the time to get into a heated into a heated debate with a Broker.
• Non-Stop Hospitality- Offer coffee, tea or juice in the morning and cool drinks in the afternoon. Think about serving alcohol to Brokers and make your own decision. Hors d’oeuvres are fine. Prepare them ahead of time.
• Keep the yacht as cool as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, keep the hatches open, use fans and get wind scoops. If you do have air conditioning, don’t remain down below all the time during the show. Brokers confronted with closed hatches may assume you are away, not showing or with another broker.
• Some Brokers will want to see the crew quarters to know how it affects the guest’s quarters. Some Brokers will ask to see your bilge. Keep both as clean and presentable as possible, but don’t stress too much about it.
• Be careful about promising to fix things. Brokers don’t want to hear too much “after a few charters, we’ll replace those old cushions.” If you can’t replace it now, do the best you can with throw pillows, accents or something. Make the best of what you have and don’t draw attention to the negatives.
• Emphasize your crew’s teamwork even if you only have a freelance chef or mate for the show. The Brokers was to see you function together as a team and be happy. If you have personality differences with your crew, you don’t need to be together. Some crews find one person on deck and one below allows them to cover twice as many Brokers, but the Brokers don’t get a chance to see you together. Charter yacht shows can be a stressful time. This is not the time to decide to divorce your chef or Captain. Let it wait until after the show.
• Collect business cards. As soon as possible after the Broker leaves the yacht, write something on the back of their business card so that you can remember them. Sending a Thank you note for their visit during the show or personalized email will go a long way in helping you grow your business. Follow up! Don’t be a pest; but do be persistent.

I don’t know about you, but I am exhausted from just reading this memo.  And, the reason why all this work is done is so they can share the above beach with each of their delighted charter guests. I am off to interview more of the crews so stay tuned.  After that I believe I will be taking a nap by the pool until the Hawaiian Luau tonight.  Enjoy your afternoon!  Your VICL Boat Show detective remains on duty… 

The charter industry is in a constant state of change.  The evolution over the past years has been at galactic speed!

Who would have ever imagined that a company would have the vision and money to fund the dream of a world class charter yacht racing company?  Well, ONDECK  has done just that.  Last year they showed up to the VICL Boat Show in force with race-ready Beneteau 40.7’s and created two match races a day for the charter Brokers and charter yacht Crews.  They have showed up big-time again this year.

ONDECK has regatta racing yachts that can be chartered with a full crew so those novice race enthusiasts can participate in any one of the Caribbean Regattas and actually be part of the excitement as a crew member.  They allow for the opportunities to develop your racing skills, match racing, and entering any or all of the Caribbean Regatta Series.  You can imagine that I have enjoyed the conversations with the ONDECK crews, and the great concept they have created for serious yacht racers who don’t have the finances or time to own their own $2.5 million racing yacht.  Today’s morning match race with the Boat Show guests dropped in $10 a person, and the winning yacht would split the pot.  What a great idea!  The competitive juices were boiling with the morning race crews.

I have raced in both the San Francisco Bay Winter Races and in several of the Heineken Regattas. Two more of the Caribbean Regattas that interest me are the International Rolex Regatta  in St. Thomas.  For 35 years, St. Thomas has been running this annual sailing regatta.  It starts in March each year with three days of very competitive racing.  The Antigua Sailing Week Regatta  is now in its 42^nd year.   It is scheduled for the last week of April 2009.  This event which started in 1967 with a handful of local yachts has grown to become one of the World’s premier regattas.  More than 1,500 participants including Olympic, America’s Cup and round-the-world sailors in more than 200 boats pit their skills against one another in a fun and fierce contest in the waters around Antigua.  Last year one of ONDECK’s chartered yachts took second place at Antigua Race Week!  Be sure to sign up today for the thrill of your sailing life.

Another major change over the last ten+ years has been the growth of the catamaran fleet in the Caribbean.  There are still an army of mono-hull purests,  but for pure comfort for the charter guests who are not sailors, catamarans are the perfect yacht to see the Caribbean.  Our friends, Captain Chris  and Chef Julie,  own the very popular s/v Blu Moon - a Beneteau 51.  During the off-charter season they made the leap to a catamaran charter yacht s/v/ Felicia - a Privilege 65!  ( If one is looking for a “turn key” charter yacht, it is for sale and you may want to check it out, and tell your sailing friends.)

At last year’s Boat Show I was rushing by s/v Blu Moon  when I saw Chris and Julie rocking in their hammock.  I immediately knew I wanted to get acquainted with this very relaxed and laid back couple.  My instincts were correct. What has evolved is fun friendship with two top professionals in the charter industry.  

They have owned and operated their charter yacht business for over eleven years and have been married for almost 25 years.  They met in Kansas with another story of paths that would seem to have never crossed, but they did.  Their favorite chartering area is the Spanish Virgin Islands.  After 40 years of sailing in the Caribbean, I have still not been to the Spanish Virgins.  Any time you get them talking about their favorite anchorages in the Spanish Virgins their eyes gleam and big smiles are plastered across their faces. 

They sailed s/v Felicia up from Trinidad the last month completing the refit for the yacht.  They completed it just before they arrived at the 2008 VICL Boat Show.  They now have their “finger prints” all over their sparkling “floating villa” s/v Felicia.  I just heard from Julie that they are getting rave reviews from all of you.  If you haven’t stopped by yet, make sure you spend some time on their yacht.  Contact me  if you want more information!

Charter Crews and Brokers know how to party - it was demonstrated again tonight!

So, I began my late after noon tradition of walking over through Havensight  to have a “final-final”  rum at the Rum Hut with the bartender, Amber, after wandering the docks all day as I shared time with the best Crews and Brokers in the world. ( Be careful of Amber’s Voodo Punch.)  After one drink I caught a cab back to my hotel to freshen up for THE PARTY night of the VICL Boat Show.  You know it doesn’t matter if you take a shower or not in the Caribbean, especially before a dance party at Paradise Point,  because you will be wringing wet with sweat in just a few moments of stepping off the St. Thomas Sky Ride tram.

Director Erik  continues to deliver on his promise to have this be one of the best VICL Boat Shows ever, and he has kept his promise all week.  And, tonight’s party was no exception.  It is still amazing to me to see a ski lift system in place from Havensight that takes us to Paradise Point,  on top of a mountain overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Murray Pridham has built a Caribbean “party headquarters” on top of this mountain and the Boat Show has enjoyed the hospitality of his Team for the past few years.

As you step off the tram you are blasted by the group Top Notch, one of the local club bands on St. Thomas.  They kept the Brokers and Crews dancing all night. You learn what it was like to hangout with 36+ yacht crews and Brokers when they don’t have anyone to worry about other than how to get back to their yachts and hotels after the party. What a FUN time. Great music, food, and drinks for the Boat Show participants.  Next time you are there make sure you meet the bartender, Elroy - one of the best.  Plus, the view of the Caribbean is over the top.  It is an incredible environment that Murray has created for those who want to have fun in the Caribbean.  And, I even found a sign that said “Keep Off Grass!” behind one to fences. Only in the Caribbean!

Paradise Point gave the revelers all they expected and more. I did not see any of the Boat Show attendees ever sitting the entire night. It will be interesting to see what condition the Brokers and Crews are in tomorrow.  I know that ONDECK charter racing will have two races tomorrow, so those signed up will want to make sure they have sturdy stomachs after such a night of partying. 

Also, don’t forget that the lunch speaker tomorrow is Carolyn Lanclos from the Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.  This government agency is a key reason why tourism is so healthy in the Virgin Islands compared to many other destinations.  More yacht interviews will be in tomorrow’s articles.  Sleep well, and remember the charter yachts are all open for preview tomorrow from 9AM to 5PM.  Then ANOTHER PARTY is planned by Director Erik - the “Hawaiian Luau” at the Yacht Haven Grande’s  big lawn.  Until tomorrow…your Boat Show detective is determined to pace himself better on Wednesday.  Time will tell.

As you wonder around the viewing docks today, the questions that are being asked by the CREWS over and over again are, “What got you into the charter yacht lifestyle?” 

Everyone of the charter yacht Owners/Crews have their own unique stories that should inspire us all.  The common theme is,  “… .following their dreams, not being afraid enough to step off the ”shore”, and the love of meeting people and sharing the Caribbean experience through their own eyes.”  You all know that with that mind-set the customers keep coming back for more of the Caribbean life they experience with each of the special charter yacht crews and vessels.  And…all of the vessels are NOT sailboats.  And, not all charter yachts are BIG 8-PAX cats! 

Take s/y HONIARA I - a Beneteau 45′ 4-PAX, and her unforgettable crew…Captain Pierre and Chef Adele are the proud owners of s/y/Honiara I.  Two unlikely paths have crossed. Pierre was born in Canada and is a professional electrical engineer who worked for the Canadian Coast Guard.  Adele was also born in Canada where she worked for 25 years in the dental field.  What a team has unfolded with their 21 years of sailing, which included 10 years of high level racing.

They are now living their dream of sailing the Caribbean, and they open their arms and hearts to anyone who joins them on a chartered sailing adventure.  You will be blown away with their adventuresome spirit, their joie-de-vivre, and the great food and wine that is presented to their guests.  And there is a bit of rum that passes their lips, too.  We have shared stories and I even told them about a Beneteau 51′ I heard was for sale in Caracas, Venezuela that peaked their interest.  But, they admitted that most of the charter fleet stay clear of Venezuela because of the fear of Chavez nationalizing everything, including charter yachts.

Next, checkout s/y SEMPER FI - a 64′ Horizon 6-PAX motor yacht, and her exceptional crew…who would ever have imagined that Captain Jay and Chef Kris would have met.  Jay was born in Florida and Kris was born in Vancouver, B.C.  Jay started his boating career before he could even drive, working at his uncle’s marina.  Kris began her career as a school teacher, and she loved the outdoors and the water as long as she can remember, but never dreamed she would be a part of the Caribbean charter yacht community.

After four years in the Navy Jay expanded his cruising grounds to the South Pacific, the Bahamas, and even the New England coast.  Eight years ago, Jay moved to the Caribbean and fell in love with the lifestyle.  Jay knows the Virgin Islands because of cruising eight years in this special slice of Paradise.  He is even an avid surfer.  ( With me growing up in Redondo Beach  on a surf board and having Barbados as my favorite Caribbean surfing spot, there is much more to talk about with Jay.)  Jay is also pretty darn funny,  with a mix of Southern hospitality and a dash of Caribbean limin’. 

Kris relocated to the Caribbean six years ago.  She is a graduate of the American Yacht Institute and has studied with gourmet and charter yacht chefs all over the Caribbean.  Kris’ international flair sparkles in her colorful and delicious menu presentations.  She is on her game whether it is an elegant formal dinner, to a causal BBQ.  Teamwork and communication are the watch words for Jay and Kris.  They have worked and sailed side by side for the past six years and have non-stop repeat customers coming back for more.  You will enjoy meeting Jay and Kris during the show.

So, the real deal while meeting the charter crews and viewing their yachts is to discover each of their “stories”.  As all charter Brokers know,  over 50% of the successful charter vacation yacht experience is the crews.  The Brokers work very had to match up their clients with the crews, so it is critical to know their “stories” which makes up the unique package of each charter yacht.  Now, back to showers, and getting your dancing shoes/flip-flops on.  The Paradise Point Party starts at 6PM so make sure you get to the St. Thomas Sky Ride  early.  This is night where everyone lets their hair done.  ( Well, those that know me understand that I believe hair is overrated.)  See you at the PARTY in an hour or so!

The Caribbean charter crews and Brokers are congratulating Jonny and Mere on their wedding November 14th!

OK, so the 2008 VICL Boat Show  is in full swing today, and a fairy tail is unfolding before the very eyes of all the crews and the charter Brokers.  A wedding is being planned for the crew of s/y Conundrum - Jonny and Meredith on November 14^th - the day after the VICL Boat Show concludes!!!  What an exciting moment for all of the participants.  Jonny and Mere are two very popular members of the charter Crews and Brokers.

I learned from the ever-smiling Captain of Condundrum  that he grew up around salt water activities his whole life, however he is not an “old salt” yet.  Jonny as lived in the Virgin Islands since he was a teenager, and he has been a sailor for 18 years, and the Captain of several private yachts.  Jonny has the reputation of creating an unforgettable charter vacation experience.  I have heard Jonny say, “My biggest satisfaction is when our guests say at the end of the week, ‘That’s the best vacation we ever had!’ That puts a smile on my face.”

Meredith is from the Midwest.  She grew up in Missouri and has a bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies from Kansas University. Interestingly, prior to becoming a chef, she obtained a Securities Exchange License Series Seven, working for three years with Morgan Stanley out of Santa Ana, California. Thank goodness she changed her profession in 2003.  We would have hated to have her be on the “sinking ship of security firms” during the last six months.  “I really enjoy seeing our guests experience a new environment, and I like to add little touches, like serving specialty drinks or having a themed menu for the day. I’m creating an atmosphere of informal elegance - nice but not stuffy, casual yet stylish. Simply pleasurable - every moment of the day”

Meredith, the bride to be, has years of culinary experience on private and charter yachts, with gourmet specialties in Caribbean, American, and Italian cuisine.  Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, lounge with a frozen cocktail in the cockpit as you watch the sun sink to orange with the “green flash”, and then dive into a luscious dinner served in the elegant salon. The perfect ending to a perfect day - and Mere makes it all happen for each of her charter guests.

The sailing yacht Conundrum is where the beautiful design of traditional yachting blends with contemporary conveniences. Their 62-foot sailing yacht, completely re-fitted in 2006, and features the latest in all the high-tech conveniences and simple elegance polished mahogany throughout. And, for they even have 6′6″ headroom for their tall sailing guests.  Go to the s/y Conundrum website for even more details.

More yachts to come and lots more fun awaits the participants as we continue our preview of another unforgettable VICL Boat Show.  This afternoon Sue Maki, the GM of Flagship  will be doing Part 2 of the new Broker training and certification.  The charter yachts are open for viewing until 5PM.   During the lunch event sponsored by Flagship, the Director of Homeland Security, Mel Vanterpool Homeland Security,  will be reviewing the issues his department is facing in the Caribbean.  And, you won’t believe the party that is planned tonight - The Paradise Party at the St. Thomas Sky Ride.  More yachts are yet to be preview…stay tuned!  Your charter yacht detective  is still on duty!

What a night that Director Erik and the Team put together for the Governor’s Reception!

Talk about a party with EVERYONE decked out in their finest “Black & Whites”, tonight was it!  The Andrew Douglas Steel Pan Band was the hit entertainment for the night.  Andrew is from Trinidad, the home of steel pan, and showed us how to play the pans!  The charter yacht suppliers were showing off their best stuff with samples for all to enjoy.  And there was plenty to drink, because thirst is a dangerous thing, expecially within the charter yacht industry.  I think I even remember a few Brokers who were a bit out of shape for the type of parties the Captains and Crews are accustom to.  But, let’s get back to the honored government guests at the event. Lt. Governor Francis, Senator Hill, Commissioner of USVI Tourism Board Nicholson Doty,  Lt. Commander Grant - USCG, and Director Mel Vanterpool of Homeland Security.

It was a night of honoring the charter yacht industry for their contribution the economy of the USVI, and an opportunity to have the elected USVI officials address the issues of how their administration is supporting the growth of tourism and of the charter industry.  Their remarks were focused on the reality that,  “…2008 has been one of the most challenging years for the USVI economy!”   That is an understatement given the hurricanes that touched the Virgin Islands, the issues facing the airlines industry and their proposed cut backs in flights to the Caribbean, and the financial meltdown of the U.S. economy.  It was a time of “straight talk” about what the USVI is facing with Tourism as the foundation of their economy.  However, they also let the audience know what the USVI government is doing to create a healthy Tourist economy, which is critical to the Charter Yacht Industry.  During their remarks, and also during my discussions with Gov. deJongh in past months he has made the following reports regarding how they are addressing the critical issues of supporting a healty tourist economy:

1. Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has participated in a series of meetings in New York City with investor groups in the past few months that are considering major investments in the Virgin Islands and particularly in St. Croix.  Resorts, industry, and real estate will create more visitors and more jobs.
2. He sent V.I. Tourism Commissioner Beverly Nicholson-Doty to Florida for meetings with her Public/Private Sector Airline Committee and American Airlines.  American was planning to cut 40% of their flights  to the Caribbean on September 1, 2008.  Ms. Doty and her committee met with Peter Dolora from American Airlines and was instructed to not let the meeting end until they committed to reinstate their Winter flights to the Caribbean. The results are that American’s once-a-day flight between Miami and St. Croix will began again on November 2^nd.  The daily flight between New York’s JFK Airport and St. Thomas will resume next week November 20^th, and a second flight will be added on Fridays starting December 18^th.  American’s flight between Boston and St. Thomas will run on a twice-weekly schedule starting November 2^nd, and on December 18^th, it will be back flying five days a week.  This was a BIG result that is requiring a joint advertising and marketing plan with the various USVI tourist industries to be implemented through 2009.
3. The Six-Pak law  is still in effect and Gov. deJongh agrees it needs to be overturned.  He has worked closely with Director Erik of the VICL and Shelly Tucker from s/v ThreeMoons  to present a position paper that can be used with the Federal Government to have this law overturned.  The challenge the Governor has had this year in moving this initiative forward has been the non-stop challenged presented this year as stated above.  All of us know the incredible benefits that the repeal of this law would have within the Charter Yacht industry.  Director Erik and your VICL Board will continue to press for this issue to become a priority.

And…the Governor’s Reception party raged on!  It was another night of fellowship with old friends, and meeting new friends.  The Charter Yacht industry is made up of some of the finest people I have ever met.  Now, back to our berths, and preparing for another day of viewing the charter fleet.  More to come tomorrow with feature articles on many of the yachts and crewmembers attending the show.  Until then…sweet dreams.

The VICL Boat Show Is open, and what a great job the VICL president Erik Ackerson has done to create an unforgettable week for the charter industry!

Erik Ackerson, the Director of the Virgin Island Charter League  has let the world know the red carpet is rolled out for all the attendees for their 34^th Annual Charter Yacht Boat Show  hosted by Yacht Haven Grande  in Charlotte Amalie staring last night!  What an exciting day of meeting the charter yacht Brokerage community from all over the world for this annual reunion of professionals serving the charter vacation needs of those wanting an unforgettable experience in Paradise.  There are over 36 of the finest charter yachts and crews that all arrived at Yacht Haven Grande as they are open each day for viewing by the Brokers as they take notes on their choices of favorite yachts and crews to promote to their sailing vacation customers.

“The quality of attendees and the support of the local marine community at the VICL Boat Show continues to be outstanding”, said Erik Ackerson, Director of VICL. “With the steady flow of qualified yacht charter Brokers, attendance is beyond what we hoped for with ample room to grow in the coming years with our expanding membership.”  The Director of VICL further commented,  “This event proved very productive for us and confirmed the excitement of the community and the industry regarding crewed charter yacht vacations in the U.S. Virgin Islands.”

Last night the Captains and Crews were welcomed at their annual reception that was just for them.  It is the start of non-stop thanks and appreciation for what these business owners of the Caribbean floating villas contribute to the quality of life for all that experience a charter yacht vacation.  It is a time for reunion for them since this body of professionals rarely are in the same location each year other than the Chartered Boat Shows.  It is a select community of Captains and Crews that support each other in the sharing of best practices, and catching on the news from their off-charter experiences that happen from July through October.  The Charter Yacht Brokers had their own personal reception at Frenchmen’s Reef Resort’s Sunset Balcony last evening.

Today the registration of Brokers continues, as the stragglers check in before the Governor’s reception tonight.  The charter yachts are all open for viewing today from 9AM to 5PM.  The crews are decked in their finest, the yachts absolutely sparkle, and the food and beverage presentation on each yacht is over the top.  They are definitely making a statement to each of the Brokers who tour their yacht, “You have just come aboard one of the finest charter yachts in the Caribbean.  And we are so proud to welcome you to our floating villa.” 

Tonight Erik Ackerson has arranged an elegant dressed “Black & White” cocktail reception at the VICL tent on the Yacht Haven Grande lawn.  The guest of honor is Governor John DeJongh who will address the Brokers, Captains and Crewmembers with his vision of how the USVI will continue to support and promote the tourism with a focus on the charter vacation industry.  In addition, Lt. Governor Francis, Congresswoman Christensen, Senator Hill, Commissioner of USVI Tourism Board Doty,  Lt. Commander Grant - USCG, and Director Mel Vanterpool of Homeland Security.

Stay tuned, we will have a full report of tonight’s events.  In my various discussions with Gov. deJongh over the past year, we talked often about the Six-Pak Law.  I hope there are comments from him about his view of the next steps in having this ridiculous law repealed.  Stay tuned…your Internet reporter  has more to come. 

Well, today you can!!!  Live your dream aboard this beautifully appointed, performance cruising sailboat, luxurious, fully equipped and ready to sail way…RIGHT NOW!

Captain Chris and First Mate/Chef Julie purchased this fast sea-worthy cruising vessel in 1998.  They immediately began a refit of the sailboat and launched s/v Blu Moon  into the Caribbean charter fleet that year.  What an adventure they have enjoyed while discovering the life of owning a charter yacht business in the Caribbean.

I first met Chris and Julie at the Virgin Island Charter League Boat Show  at Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas.  The VLCL have hosts the charter yacht fleet each year to St. Thomas for the charter yacht Brokers to check them out and see which ones they want to promote to their customers back in the States.  If you recall, last year I did the internet reporting for the VICL 33^rd Annual Boat Show.  At last year’s show I was rushing by s/v Blu Moon  and immediately stopped dead in my tracks when I saw Chris and Julie rocking in the hammock attached to their mast.  I am so glad I stopped to say hello.  What has evolved is fun friendship with two top professionals in the charter industry.  

They have owned and operated their charter yacht business for over eleven years and have been married for almost 25 years.  They met in Kansas and the story is too long to tell as to how they ended up in the Caribbean.  What was most interesting to me was their favorite chartering area is the Spanish Virgin Islands.  I have seen Spanish Virgin from the air when flying to the Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico, but I have never actually sailed around them.  The stories that unfolded let me know I have missed a very special part of the Caribbean the last 40 years.  And, the experiences they shared happened with their eyes gleaming and big smiles on their faces.  They are passionate about the unspoiled beauty and very laid back style of the Spanish Virgins.

So, why are they selling s/v Blu Moon?  Because they have purchased a 65′ Privilege catamaran - s/v Felicia, and are sailing up from Trinidad  right now so it can be in the VICL Boat Show next week in St. Thomas.  My last correspondence from them let me know they are doing the upgrades to s/v Felicia while under sail.  They did report they had there first Caribbean swim when they anchored at Bequia in the Grenadines.  They are just about complete with all of the refitting, including a new galley.  From what they told me last week s/v Felicia  will be in sparkling condition for the St. Thomas Show which starts next Tuesday.  I have been on s/v Blu Moon  several times, and since Chris and Julie purchased it in 1998 they have consistently been improving her design, capabilities and comfort. Their custom changes and upgrades are valued in excess of $100,000, optimizing this vessel for Caribbean cruising and beyond.  It is ready to enter the Charter Fleet today, or to take you anywhere you want in the world!

So, go to the s/v Blu Moon  website and check out the incredible opportunity awaiting the next charter yacht owners.  The price is only $225,000.  Or, email them at: info@bonvoyagecharters.com    Also, if you want more information about chartering their 65′ Privilege catamaran s/v Felicia in 2008/2009, contact me TODAY.  It is booking up fast.  You will not believe the experience of a Caribbean charter yacht vacation.  Their rates for an all inclusive week start at only $24,500 for four people.  Their catamaran can hold up to four couples in queen size bed suites.  Until next time…fair winds.

The VICL is hosting the annual event that shows off the Caribbean Charter Yacht Fleet next month in St. Thomas - Jim Walberg, internet reporter!

I will again be the internet reporter for the Virgin Island Charter League  Boat Show next month at Yacht Haven Grande Marina  from November 9^th - 12^th.  This is THE event of the year for the Charter Yacht Fleet.  It is four days of having the Charter Yacht brokers from all over the world coming to St. Thomas to preview the yachts and crews that are the floating “Bed & Breakfasts” of the Caribbean.  The charter vacation yacht brokers will be selecting the yachts and crews they will be promoting to their clients for the upcoming season.  All of the yachts and crew are at their finest for this important event.  Each of them wants to be one of the yachts the brokers put on their short list of their favorites.  The charter yacht vacation brokers could make or break crews’ charter season with the recommendations they make.  The season starts November 15^th and ends June 15^th.  All of the yachts will be polished and varnished for this very fun annual party of the charter fleet.

 During the entire event I will be interviewing crews and photographing their yachts.  The human interest stories that are a part of the daily lives of these owners of the Caribbean floating bed and breakfasts are always inspiring.  I have yet to meet a more interesting group of world traveling entrepreneurs who know how to create an unforgettable experience for each of their clients.  The reason the Charter Boat Shows are interested in my reporting is because there are many of their members who will not be able to attend, so they want an internet site where they can go and catch up on the daily activities of the Show.

Imagine that you own one of these charter yacht businesses.  Your income is based on how many charters you are able to book during a season, and the gratuity that your guests give you at the end of their charter vacation - typically 15% to 20% of the cost of the charter vacation.  It is typical to have 20 to 25 charter weeks a season.  You are on duty 24 hours a day for EVERYTHING - four 5-Star meal presentations a day; providing Ritz Carlton service every moment of the day, be in charge of the safety of your six to eight guests, organize the daily water sports that are a part of this type of holiday, effortless sail and maintain your yacht each day…and do it all with a smile and enthusiasm knowing your clients probably have never had such an experience.

Anyway,  the VICL Boat Show in St. Thomas  is a sailor’s dream to attend.  You are mingling with some of the most skilled sailors in the Caribbean who have decided to monetize their skills in providing a floating “bed and breakfast” to people who love the Tropical life.  I tip my hat to these amazing entrepreneurs who help thousands of people fall in love with the Caribbean experience every week.  If you want more information about booking a chartered yacht vacation in the Caribbean, let me know.  We do it all the time for our customers.  Or, if you just want to stop by the show, you will have the time of your life.  We can even stop by the Rum Shack at Havensite at the end of the day for some refreshments before the evening parties begin.  There will be more articles about the events that will be happening at the show, so stay tuned! 

After 20+ separate charters yacht vacations each season, a charter crew needs a break…and they take one every Summer up until November 1st!

I let you know in past articles  that owning and operating a charter yacht vacation business is not just having fun and sailing around the Caribbean.  It is a BIG business.  It is BIG work!  And, it is not for the faint of heart!  Imagine owning a bed and breakfast in the Caribbean, except that it is a boat!  If something breaks there is no one to call except your personal skills in fixing it; generators, ice makers, electrical, plugged plumbing, air conditioning break downs, sheets and sail issues, and on and on.  Are you getting the picture that is not just sailing in Paradise and keeping sun screen on?  The “job” of a charter yacht owner/crew is to produce an extraordinary tropical yacht vacation experience for every guest…for every week of charters.  And, if that is not delivered to their charter guests they will not have a “Caribbean floating bed and breakfast” business for very long.

So, in spite of what I have just described, there is a small community of charter yacht owners who would not change one bit of their lives.  They are some of the most professional and competent business owners you will ever meet.  They are the consummate problem solvers every day without their guests ever knowing there may be something wrong.  They deliver four to five 5-Star dining experiences a day!  Every water toy you can imagine is on the yacht - from water skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, wind su rfing, etc.  And, they know every special anchorage in the Caribbean so when the anchor is dropped for the night you will witness a brand new spectacular sunset every evening while you are being served you favorite cocktails.  ( If you think I am over stating the experience one has on a charter yacht vacation, it is because you have been yet.  It is the most unforgettable vacation experience I have ever had - 40 years of sailing in the Caribbean has not dampened my love for this amazing part of the world.)

Two of the “Rock Stars” of the Caribbean charter industry are Randy and Shelly Tucker.  I had the chance to work with Shelly at last year’s VICL Boat Show  at Yacht Haven Grande  in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.  They own the Irwin 72′ Three Moons - one of my favorite mono-hulls especially built for the Caribbean.  Randy and Shelly are legendary in the Caribbean charter industry because of the consistently exceptional experience they deliver to their clients.  Almost 90% clients are repeat or referral clients.  Here is a quote from Randy and Shelly that truly communicates what is awaiting you for a Caribbean charter yacht vacation, “Comfort, relaxation, and award-winning cuisine are yours sailing aboard our handsome 72 foot yacht throughout  an exquisitely inviting Caribbean playground…the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.”   Because of the cuisine experience that Shelly delivers to their customers everyday, Crew Life Magazine printed a feature story on this award-winning chef.  Shelly has also published the very successful “Three Moons Island Cookbook” - in its third edition!

I had the pleasure of hosting Randy and Shelly at our San Francisco Bay Area home this week during their off-charter adventures.  This was their first visit to one of my top five favorite cities in the world.  Yesterday they had fresh Dungeness crab at the Waterfront Restaurant  on the Embarcadero.  They walked their “deck shoes”  off exploring this magical City.  They stopped by a few days after attending a family wedding in Cabo, Mexico. ( If you look closely at the photo of the catamaran you will see them with very BIG smiles - even though they are not fans of multi-hull yachts.)  During their stay as OUR “charter guests”,  it was such a pleasure to deliver the best we had for every meal, and even dipping into our wine cellar sharing our favorite wines.  ( We also had one night that started out with Belevedre martinis, some BIG reds, and topped off with some amazing Tawny Port for the Sierra foothills - Indian Rock Vineyards.)  I look forward to all of you having the opportunity of booking a charter yacht vacation in the Caribbean.  It will change your life - and that is not an overstatement.  Email me  and I will be your guide in setting up an unforgettable sailing adventure.  Until next time….fair winds!