Adventures on board: Crossing Oceans

Since I have traded my deck shoes for flats and the sea for an office, one of my favorite things to do is scroll through pictures of my adventures at sea and recollect on the inspiring sights, places, people and experiences. I thought it might be fun to start a blog series, which is basically me sharing my Adventures Onboard with you.

I have crossed oceans countless of times, literally I cannot recollect just how many times I made the trip across the pond between Florida and the Mediterranean or crossed the Pacific. Setting sail in San Diego or from the Galapagos, crossing the Ocean always brings adventure. The seas can become rough and swells can soar, storms move through, sun rises and sun sets look different mid ocean. We would perform ceremonies as we passed over the equator and maybe just a few times some not advised mid ocean swimming.

Today, I found a picture of a time in 2009, when we were in the middle of the Pacific, halfway to Marquesas. The trip was pretty normal, when all of a sudden we realized the yacht was caught up in a large fishing net drifting just below the surface. This had potential to be dangerous if the net were to get caught in the propellors. Therefore the crew devised a plan to untangle the Yacht. Scuba gear was donned and deckhands jumped over board to manage the tender we were towing. In order to untangle the Yacht, we had to turn off the stabilizers, as the name indicates, stabilizers work with the ocean swells to stabilize the yacht. My self and the other stews double checked and stowed the interior.

When the stabilizers were turned off, we were awe struck. In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, floating with the current and rising and falling with the waves; for me the feeling was tremendous, it was like I was one with the ocean. I moved when the ocean moved.

As quickly as the situation began, it was resolved, net freed and we were back on the road, so to speak. Seven days later we caught sight of land for the first time in fourteen days. Seeing the Islands of the Marquesas on the horizon, I imagined what the it must have been like for sailors ages ago, viewing the same thing I was. Of course, they were not aboard super yachts and their conditions were much tougher.

Oceans are tremendous in size and physicality, being in the middle of the ocean makes you feel,
unsurprisingly small, but gives you the immense feeling of being free and in touch with nature. I will never take for granted the places I have seen, that few see and are only accessible via boat. I will never take for granted the sunrises that looked as if fire was touching the sea, Until I set sail again, I reminisce, and my views are a little different.  Currently, as I finish my story, I see my little daughter playing at the bottom of the stairs and to tell you the truth, that is a pretty spectacular view.

Race to Bermuda for the 35th America’s Cup

In the summer of 2017, the eyes of the world will be on Bermuda as it sets to host the 35^th America’s Cup presented by Louis Vuitton. Bermuda is the perfect venue for this iconic sporting event. The renowned Great Sound, a chain of islands in the southwest will be the site for this year’s race. The chain of islands creates a natural harbor, surrounded on all sides by islands, and then opening up to the Atlantic Ocean. This setting will provide breathtaking views for spectators and ideal conditions for racers.

The America’s Cup is the longest running international sporting event, and this year will not disappoint as reigning victors, Oracle Team USA, will attempt to hold on to “oldest trophy in international sport.” Four Time Olympic Gold Medalist, Sir Ben Ainslie, the current lead challenger, has been strategizing the return of the trophy to Britain for the first time since 1851.

Only 4 nations have held this coveted trophy in its 150-year history. The tensions are already intensifying for this year’s race, on the sailing circuit, and the 35^th Cup will no doubt showcase the best sailing and boats in the world.

Bermuda is investing an estimated $70 million in their infrastructure and amenities to welcome the international community. A redevelopment of the Royal Naval Dockyard will transform into a shopping, entertainment, and spectator village and a new marina is being built at the Hamilton Princess at the Hamilton Princess Beach Club, the official host hotel for the event.

Bermuda’s main event, will always be its natural wonders. The sky blue waters will allure one off the land and into the sea. Scuba divers and snorkelers are treated to boundless marine life and unlimited visibility amongst the coral reefs and century old shipwrecks. Kayakers explore the island through the crystal clear coves and sea caves, and fisherman are challenged in year round game fishing. Bermuda’s rich history is rooted in yachting and sailing, and is the host to the famous Newport Bermuda Race. Land dwellers can partake in rich sightseeing experience with museums, botanical gardens, cathedrals from the 1800’s. Golfers can play the renovated Port Royal Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones with rolling grounds and dramatic Oceanside cliffs.

Bermuda will be the star of the 35^th America’s Cup, and will be catapulted into one of the most desirable yachting destinations in the world. Custom designed yacht charters will be taking place one month before and one month after the America’s Cup, be the first to see Bermuda’s debut. #racetobermuda

The Ultimate Charter Destination: Cuba in 5 amazing photos

Cuba, once an unlikely wish list destination, today is a reality. There is no better way to access the once inaccessible than via an exclusively designed yacht charter. Super Yachts are cutting the red tape so elite travelers can cut through the Caribbean Sea onto Cuban shores. Travelers will experience a contradiction of time, stepping back into the past where time stood still, while embarking on Cuba’s future.

Cuba entices with its culture; stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, visit 16^th century castles and untouched neo classical and art deco architecture, while 1950 American cars cruise past. Experience what is now being referred to as the “new” Cuban revolution, the Cuban food movement. Organic farm to table restaurants are springing up literally on the farmland.

Nightfall in Cuba brings cultured classical ballets and world-class philharmonic orchestras, but one should not end the evening without experiencing the authentic and local sound of Cuban Salsa.

Many may begin to travel to Cuba, but an elite few, will experience the island via yacht, accessing pristine coves, pioneering anchorages and cruising grounds. The marine life and coral reefs are unspoiled providing divers and snorkelers a unique experience.  Local environmentalists are available to provide insight to Cuba’s Coral Reef Protection Program.

Explore the Peninsula of Varadero’s caves and nearby chains of virgin cays. Escape tourism 100 miles south of Havana on Cayo Largo, where your only decision will be whether to first lounge on the 17 miles of white sandy beaches or dive the black coral reef.

This yacht adventure will be epic, but maybe even an opportunity to be part of something larger than just travel, but history.

Motor Yacht Clarity. For the selective traveler looking for adventure.

In 2015, Bilgin Yachts unveiled Clarity, a 48.7m super yacht that combines vintage inspiration with modern luxuries. Clarity is now new to the charter market, and we were lucky enough to view her at this year’s Newport Charter Yacht Show.

Immediately upon boarding we were captivated. She is beyond impressive, beautiful throughout and designed for adventure. Her classic charm and lavish comforts create the perfect combination for the discerning traveller.

Some of our favorite features included the master stateroom with 270 degrees of windows. Open up the black out blinds and begin the day with the perfect view. We also loved the sundeck with its open plan and classic ships funnel as well as the expansive bridge deck aft complete with bar seating and a full beam lounge pad. Whether at anchor or underway, either of these locations on deck will not disappoint.

Available this summer in New England and this winter in the Caribbean, Clarity is a unique find in the world of luxury yacht charters.

Contact info@yacht-play.com for more information on chartering motor yacht Clarity.

5 Reasons not to Forget the Bahamas this Summer

With the summer season in full swing, one of my favorite places to be is in the Bahamas. Serenity like no other, quaint local culture and beaches you share with no one, escaping here during the summer will slow you down while lifting you up. After all “It’s Better in the Bahamas”.

Go against the current and have some anchor room. The Bahamas is busiest in the winter.

The sharks at Compass Cay. Test your nerves and jump in.

 Visit those famous swimming pigs and throw them some lunch.

 The ultimate fishing and diving destination. Be ready for lobster season opening day in August.

 Shake on down with the locals and experience an authentic Junkanoo.

 

How I Made my Escape into the World of Luxury Yachts

This all started over 15 years ago when I first discovered the world of yachting. I had just graduated from University and had a need for adventure. The idea of “super yachts” had been on my radar for some time, so I made the first step and moved from the United Kingdom to the Bahamas. I worked a few years for the most amazing Private Island Resort. Those years changed me, I was blown away by this Bahamian Island way of life. They welcomed and treated me as one of their own and introduced me to a world which revolves around the ocean. The friends and colleagues I met made a lasting impact on me and helped foster my need to discover the real people and culture everywhere I go.

Moving on in my travels I caught a flight to Fort Lauderdale and stepped onboard my first super yacht as a stewardess. The yacht took my breath away, it was almost as if it was alive, it’s beauty, it’s strength, and the promise of the places it could take me. I never looked back. For me, I found a part of myself in this industry. I am infatuated by Yachts and their ability to explore. The crew I had the pleasure of working with and knowing are some of the most interesting and talented people I have ever met. There is no doubt that we worked hard. We became accustomed to providing the highest personalized standard of service. We were perfectionists, and for me there is no other way. When we had time off, the crew and I explored places I never imagined I would see, dove world class dive sites, bbq’ed with the locals, climbed volcanoes, hiked valleys, swam in waterfalls and became fully acquainted with the country’s fine dining, wine and entertainment. All in the name of our profession.

Now my life may be more land based but I will never lose my love for yachts, oceans, traveling, adventures and connecting with people around the world.

4 once-in-a-lifetime luxury escapes you and your family will never forget

Tahiti and Moorea

The locals and the culture are unparalleled on these two beautiful South Pacific Islands. Live like a local and see the sun rise over Tahiti while you row an outrigger canoe past Sailing Yachts and Super Yachts; dance the traditional ‘ote’a like no one is watching and savor the finest French influenced island cuisine. If you still need a little more action; cycle your way around Moorea, stopping only to catch a surf break and browse the talented local jeweler’s for the beautiful black pearls.

The Inside Passage

A gateway to nature, a ticket to adventure. Whales, sea lions, bears, otters and eagles are just some of the wildlife you may see while cruising the passage. Discover and experience Alaska’s Native American heritage as you stroll the charming coastal towns. Fly in on a seaplane, fish for Salmon, SUP or kayak the shorelines and fjords. Icebergs and glaciers, forests and waterfalls, the scenery is awe inspiring. This is one tailored experience guaranteed to leave an impression.

 

Cocos Island

342 miles due west of Costa Rica, you will discover Cocos Island National Park. On arrival, be prepared to be blown away by the sheer untamed beauty of the Island as you witness waterfalls cascading off the cliffs and mountain peaks covered in lush foliage high above you. From land to sea Cocos is unique. The currents surrounding the Island brings with them a breathtaking array of ocean life – if diving with hammerheads and tuna is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it. Hiking over the Island, splashing in streams, taking a dive in a submarine and learning about this unique haven is what will make this adventure unforgettable.

British Virgin Islands

The Caves. The Baths. The Indians. All spots you will not want to miss during your escape to the Virgin Islands. There is no doubt that this adventure calls for a yacht, and yes you may not have the anchorage entirely to yourself, but there is a reason we all flock here during the winter. Snorkeling, swimming, fishing, diving, powder sand beaches, a unique floating bar and lively beach bars – ready to welcome your family, afternoon or evening. With a perfectly warm and tropical temperature all year long you can fill every day with action and adventure or just relax and enjoy the serenity with a Painkiller – the famous locally created cocktail.