Ken Bracewell noted that these pilot fees are state mandated and one can keep track of various state mandated pilot fees through Coast Pilot Guides, which are available for every part of the U.S. coast, both east and west. Pilot fees do vary between foreign and U.S. flag boats, so all should be aware and check when moving along the U.S. coasts for possible pilot requirements. In certain areas, the pilot fees can be quite high, such as for foreign flag charters entering in certain areas of Alaska. These fees are passed on to the Charterer if pilots are required to complete the charter itinerary. This can impact the charter costs overall. The number of states mandating pilot use and therefore fees is unfortunately increasing for our industry.

Nutmeg was the main export from the Banda Islands in the 16th and 17th centuries and the only place where nutmeg was grown. The East Indies Dutch Trading company and nutmeg importation helped establish a very wealthy economy in the Netherlands which fostered the Renaissance of Dutch artists. Myanmar, once called Burma, is a re-opening cruising area for the western world. The Myanmar Archipelago is filled with islands, beautiful coral, and outstanding beaches. Myanmar is also home to the Moki Sea Gypsies, a nomadic culture, of hunters and gatherers, that live on their home made boats in clusters or "towns" and move from island to island in search of food. Silolona charters in both areas, for an experience of a lifetime.

This is a first for Caroly, however not a first regatta. Carolyn has been racing regattas for many years and is joing a group that have raced together around the world and have been charter clients in the past. We will have results on her return.

However wild and marine life move, migrate, and follow certain food search patterns. Your crew need to know these movements, so that you will be in the best areas during your charter time to really experience Alaska. The yacht should be outfitted with on board weather protection, fishing gear and sea kayaks geared towards the Alaskan environment. With the right gear, you can fish for Halibut that are longer than you might be tall, kayak to an ice berg and chip ice off for cocktails, and take the tender right into a group of sea lions. Perhaps you might go clamming on the beach, or raise the crab pots, or fish for dinner. A knowledgeable Alaskan chef can create a fresh "catch of the day" with locally caught fish and shellfish.
Chartering the right boat in Alaska is all about chartering those yachts that are Alaska based each summer, and return there year after year. These boats are few and far between, however Northrop and Johnson Yacht Charters is very knowledgeable about these yachts. Because there are very few, these yachts book up early, often a year in advance, and there are a limited number of summer months for the Alaskan season. The true Alaskan yacht tends to be more vernacular than the sleek yacht of the Western Med, often built of wood, with a family style atmosphere and interior, however the crew are able to bring the yacht into the middle of the whale pod, or pull a halibut right up on the deck, have you walk around in good solid walking boats, without fear of damage to the decks or paint, all of which are necessary requirements for the back to nature aspect of charter in Alaska. These yachts are fully booked each summer, so book early to get your time on board.

Please understand, that discounts are not always given, and if you have something that you want to do, on a certain yacht, you probably will still pay full fare. Discounts often require some flexibility in dates, location and yacht booked, as each yacht is owned by a different individual Owner, and it is up to the Owner to determine an interest or not in discount offers. If you are flexible and interested in the yacht where the Owner is offering the discount, you could end up a winner. Again, any discounting at all for August is unique, available, but not in every instance. And as changes occur in the economy this window may vanish.

The Party was held in the courtyard at Max's Market on Lower Thames Street. Max's Market, Seagear, and Bellevue Wines were also party Sponsors. Max's Market, along with making fresh foods, and selling special gourmet items, also are yacht provisioners, and showed several new food items with tastings for Chefs to consider. Seagear offers custom crew gear, and have made crew uniforms for many of the crew who attended. Bellevue Wines offer wines and spirits delivered to the yacht, and a series of freshly made juices. Their stawberry rhubarb daiquiri was a hit of the party. Hor's douvers were supplied by Max's Market and a nice evening out under the stars was had by all.