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Yacht Charter Heaven in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands

Chantal Maxwell2020-06-05T13:56:52-04:00

Bay of Islands New Zealand

The New Zealand Bay of Islands is the perfect yachting destination for any ocean-lover. Filled with white sandy beaches, tall towering trees, and luscious green hills that can be seen for miles, this is a yacht charter location where you will have no trouble relaxing. Once considered the colonial heart of New Zealand, the tiny towns that fill the islands will give you a look into the history and culture of the country. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds near Paihia to see where New Zealand’s modern history began or visit the towns of Russel and Kerikeri to get a taste of the once British Colony.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands Maritime Park is definitely a “must-see” while you’re here. This stretch of 144 islands are home to crystal-clear waters, dolphins, and whales. Many choose to travel north of Auckland simply to visit the Maritime Park. Around the towns of Russell and Paihia, enjoy sea kayaking tours, swim in private coves, and snorkel or scuba dive for an up-close view of the diverse marine life. You can also tour Cape Brett and the bay’s Hole in the Rock formation—a very popular destination on the islands.

Yacht Charter Heaven in New Zealand’s Bay of IslandsChantal Maxwell2020-06-05T13:56:52-04:00

Andros Island, An Untouched Paradise for Your Next Yacht Charter Destination

Chantal Maxwell2020-06-05T11:53:37-04:00

The Island of Andros

Adventure and beauty are calling your name on the island of Andros—an island located in the Bahamas. This nearly untouched island is the largest of the Bahamas, at roughly 100 miles long. It is easily accessed by private yacht charter. The island is stunning, as most of it is uninhabited. There are many stretches of unspoiled land on the island, including free-flowing creeks, deserted beaches, and exotic wildlife. A trip to Andros Island offers a rare opportunity to become connected to nature in a way that you probably haven’t done before.

Snorkeling in the Bahamas

There is no shortage of mystery and wonder that surrounds Andros as well. There is believed to be an underwater 75-foot monster, Lusca, who dwells in the ocean waters. There’s Morgan’s Bluff—the presumed location of a hidden buried treasure from one of the Caribbean’s most feared pirates, Sir Henry Morgan. Perhaps one of the most beautiful wonders of the island though available for snorkeling from your private charter yacht, is the Andros Barrier Reef—the third largest living organism on the planet. Because this island is almost completely uninhabited, this 190-mile reef is in pristine condition with an abundance of fish, whales, and coral for you to explore.

In its natural habitat a bonefish is swimming in the grass flats ocean

The Elusive Bonefish

For the fisherman looking for great sport, bonefishing is at its finest in the saltwater flats around Andros Island, considered a world class bonefishing destination. From your anchored charter yacht, head out with a local bonefishing guide who will supply a flat bottomed boat, and all of the gear needed to stalk this elusive fish.

Andros Island, An Untouched Paradise for Your Next Yacht Charter DestinationChantal Maxwell2020-06-05T11:53:37-04:00

A Medieval Destination Complete With Truffles: Private Yacht Charter Visit to Motovun, Croatia

Chantal Maxwell2020-05-24T21:45:08-04:00

Motovun Medieval Village, Croatia

Travel back in time while enjoying scenic views, tasty truffles, and a luxurious charter vacation with a private yacht charter to Motovun, Croatia. This beautiful medieval town is known for its truffles, so if you are a truffle lover, you’ll be in paradise. Outside of those tasty little treats, the luscious and green rolling hills are to die for, the food and wine are spectacular, and you’ll have no trouble finding wonderful things to do while you’re in Motovun, such as visiting the little shops and walking the town walls for spectacular views of the countryside. From either Rovinj or Pula, both of which are lovely harbors for a yacht charter stop, it is an easy drive to spend a day in Istria visiting Motovun and the surrounding countryside.

Motovun Forest Trained Truffle Hunting Dogs Pointing a Truffle

Truffle Hunting Dogs Pointing out a Truffle

Ready to hunt for buried treasure in the form of truffles? Schedule a truffle-hunting exhibition for the ultimate truffle experience out of the little village of Livade, close by Motovon. This tour takes you through the local forest where you’ll be met by a Croatian Truffle Hunter for a Truffle Hunting Exhibition, complete with specially trained truffle-hunting dogs. Afterwards, enjoy a meal featuring truffles at Zigante Restaurant in Livade. If truffle hunting doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, there are also many wineries, olive groves, and bee hives around the Motovun countryside where stopping in will provide a taste of all that Istria has to offer. You can even taste donkey milk if you have the yen. Contact us today for a charter in Croatia to include the ports of Rovinj and/or Pula for a truffle-tastic day trip inland to Istria and Motovun, Croatia.

Truffle Hunter with Turffle Hunting Dogs

A Medieval Destination Complete With Truffles: Private Yacht Charter Visit to Motovun, CroatiaChantal Maxwell2020-05-24T21:45:08-04:00

The Ultimate Social Distancing Vacation: A New England Yacht Charter

Chantal Maxwell2020-05-16T13:33:37-04:00

Luxury Motor Yacht & Water Toys for Yacht Charter

Private Motor Yacht with Water Toys

Imagine yourself sailing aboard a private yacht. Crystal blue waters surrounding you, the cool ocean breeze sweeping your face, a five star chef at your beck and call, and not a worry in the world on your mind. A private yacht charter is the perfect way to escape the crowds and experience luxurious relaxation. You don’t have to look too far for an amazing experience—we recommend a trip through the islands and along the beautiful New England coast. Enjoy the beauty, colonial history, and quaint fishing villages with a full-service private captain, chef, and crew to attend to your every need.

Chef Prepares cuising on Luxury Yacht Charter www.njcharters.com

Your own Private Chef

This summer holds a terrific selection of crewed charter yachts available in New England, as many owners that normally send their yachts to the Mediterranean are keeping their yachts closer to home. You can book now for a trip anytime between July 4th and mid-September. On your private yacht charter, experience fresh, clean air and pristine waters. Enjoy being as far away from large crowds as you’d like while relaxing and having fun.

If you’re a swimmer, hop into the water and swim to a deserted beach to explore, sun-bathe, or simply enjoy the gorgeous views. If you’re not a swimmer, don’t fret—plan a land expedition instead to explore the rich-in-history New England coasts and islands.

Luxury Yacht Charter, Al fresco dining, Yacht Charter Lifestyle www.njcharters.com

Your Private Space On Board

If you’d like to stay aboard the entire visit and stay remote, just say the word. You’ll be taken care of in a lovely, isolated anchorage by your full-service crew and five-star chef. This is YOUR trip—you have the ability to work with your private yacht charter broker to establish a customized plan at your pace and comfort level, making the get-away as exclusive as you would like it to be.

Below, find two classic suggested itineraries for a wonderful summer New England charter trip. The first is a southern New England charter out of Newport, RI which includes Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Cape Cod. The second is “Down East” Maine out of Camden and it includes Isleboro, Vinalhaven, and Bar Harbor. These two itineraries are suggested only, as for every charter a customized itinerary is created around exactly what you want to do.

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The Ultimate Social Distancing Vacation: A New England Yacht CharterChantal Maxwell2020-05-16T13:33:37-04:00

The Luxury Hotel Restaurant that is a “Must-Do” for the Private Yacht Charterer

Chantal Maxwell2020-05-07T11:37:18-04:00

Cap Ferret, Eden Roc

The Grill at the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc is a decadent culinary and cultural experience with a view you’ll never forget. Located at the famed Hotel du Cap on the Cote d’Azur, the Grill sits right on the water. (There is also a more formal dining room upstairs inside the hotel, and a Champagne Bar on the roof.) This means private yacht charter visitors can anchor directly in front of the restaurant!

Antibes Market

For your lunch or dinner reservation, head ashore in the ship’s tender to The Grill’s private tender dock right at the restaurant. Enjoy a fine cocktail and a classic French meal while gazing at your yacht at anchor in the midst of an amazing view. There is much more to do in Antibes; this guide can be helpful in planning out a full day ashore.

View of Cap d’Antibes in the French Riviera

The Luxury Hotel Restaurant that is a “Must-Do” for the Private Yacht ChartererChantal Maxwell2020-05-07T11:37:18-04:00

The History of Ikat: An Ancient Cultural Tradition in Indonesia

Chantal Maxwell2020-05-07T00:42:36-04:00

Ikat Textile Weaving

Ikat, a fabric dyed with natural dyes and spun on hand-made looms, has roots in many regions of Asia. In the Eastern Flores Archipelago in Indonesia, private yacht charter guests can visit villages to see the village women, who today are skilled self-taught artisans with techniques passed down through the generations bringing this craft to life. To create the textiles, cotton is grown, carded, spun to strands, dyed with natural dyes created by the village women, then woven into the Ikat Textile designs on handmade looms. Only accessible by private yacht, your charter yacht can anchor right in front of remote Ikat Textile weaving villages, where you can buy these lovely handmade textiles directly from the weavers.

The history of Ikat dates back thousands of years. Beautiful textiles have been found as far away as the ancient tombs of Egypt. Their trade has united peoples of the world in times of war and peace. To read more about Ikat’s past and the work being done to support the craftsmen and women who still make these handmade textiles today, click here.

The History of Ikat: An Ancient Cultural Tradition in IndonesiaChantal Maxwell2020-05-07T00:42:36-04:00

A Private Yacht Charter Stop in Thunderball Grotto

Chantal Maxwell2020-04-20T13:40:27-04:00

Thunderball Grotto Inside the Grotto

To visitors approaching by private yacht charter tender, on the outside, this island in the Exumas chain in the Bahamas is a quiet, uninhabited place. There is nothing to hear but the splash of the waves and the calling of birds. Once you’ve donned your snorkeling or scuba gear, however, you can be transported to the famed interior grotto made immortal in several Hollywood films.

Thunderball Grotto earned its name from the same Bond film. Splash, Never Say Never Again, and Into the Blue also featured scenes here. It is a series of caves where the light goes from aquamarine to green and gold, filled with beautiful tropical fish and other wildlife. Learn more about the grotto and its cinematic history here.

A visit to Thunderball Grotto would not be complete without a stop at Staniel Cay and other unique experiences nearby, including visiting Great Major Cay to feed the feral swimming pigs. We have a sample itinerary packed with fun for your next Bahamas yacht charter.

Thunderball Cave

A Private Yacht Charter Stop in Thunderball GrottoChantal Maxwell2020-04-20T13:40:27-04:00

Choose The Right Greek Islands for Your Yacht Charter

Chantal Maxwell2020-04-08T15:35:20-04:00

The islands of Greece form the birthplace of one of the world’s most ancient and storied civilizations. An estimated 160-220 Greek islands are inhabited, with thousands more dotting the azure waters of the Aegean and Adriatic Seas. Your upcoming island-hopping sojourn is a chance to wander the centuries, learning about the special history and culture of the various Greek Islands, and bearing witness to the changes and advancements of philosophy, government, culture, and much more.

Greek island yacht charters are a brilliant way to take in the flavors and cultural traditions unique to each island. Aided by an ideal climate, the private yacht charterer has many itinerary choices within the five major island chains (the Saronic, the Cycladic, the Dodecanese, the Sporadic, and the Ionian Islands).

There is no “best” choice of islands in which to cruise on your yacht charter in Greece. Often, islands from several island chains might be combined in one charter itinerary, so instead, we are highlighting below some of our favorite islands in each island chain, and what to do and see on each. The high season for Greece is summer, although you can travel comfortably in late spring and early fall. It’s always wise to inquire early about yacht charter in the Greek Islands, as this is a terrific yacht charter destination—so it’s very popular.

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Choose The Right Greek Islands for Your Yacht CharterChantal Maxwell2020-04-08T15:35:20-04:00

The Yacht Charter Traveler’s Guide to Ibiza

Chantal Maxwell2020-04-08T14:49:56-04:00

Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

The Balearic isle of Ibiza is a play in contradictions. Renowned for the heady nightlife that doesn’t stop until the sun begins to rise, this is one of the best places on earth for good dance music and EDM. Visitors may be surprised, however, to find an easygoing family-friendly atmosphere here. It is an ideal place for a crewed yacht charter (not to mention sunny, festive, and gorgeous).

Famous Ibiza Sunset

Ibiza boasts a long history of hippie culture dating back to the 1960s. You can find lovely markets selling all manner of Bohemian handmade arts and crafts. Head to the beaches for crystal-clear waters, or spend the day hiking or biking all over the island. There is shipwreck scuba diving and kayaking through sea caves and small inlets. Private yacht charter is truly the perfect vehicle for reaching the most remote, quiet corners of Ibiza. And don’t forget the rest of the Balearic Islands, all reachable on a private yacht charter starting in Ibiza, including Mallorca, Menorca, and Formentera. If you want to discover more than just the hot nightlife, this is another solid guide for first-time visitors. Bon voyage!

The Yacht Charter Traveler’s Guide to IbizaChantal Maxwell2020-04-08T14:49:56-04:00

Your Private Yacht Charter Checklist for 2020

Chantal Maxwell2020-03-27T11:28:05-04:00

Family on Luxury Yacht Charter

Are you wondering about the little details for taking yourself and guests on a private yacht charter? Let us ease your mind with a list of what to have ready for any private yacht charter. It will ensure that this upcoming trip is truly delightful.

Before Boarding: Yacht Charter Tips

#1: Pack Your Vitamins and Medications

Healthy cruisers are happy cruisers. Make sure you remember all the medications and supplements that you normally take.

#2: Packing for Your Home Away from Home

Here’s what you will definitely want to have on hand:

Identification papers, including passports and IDs

Cash in the proper converted currency(ies) or cash in your currency, ready to exchange upon arrival

Copy of your Charter Reservation Statement, Charter Contract, and any applicable insurance policy information such as Trip Cancellation Insurance if applicable

Skincare—sunblock, lip balm and lotion with SPF, and insect repellent if applicable

Swimsuits

Lightweight wardrobe—bathing suit cover-ups, shorts, dresses, activewear, shoreside shoes, sun protection clothing if needed, upscale or elegant nightlife clothing depending on the charter location (most charter locations are very casual ashore)

Sunglasses and a hat

After-sun creams or aloe vera

The tools: waterproof phone case, universal plug adapters and converters if needed, and chargers!

For camera buffs, all camera gear, with backup everything including batteries

#3: On-board Cuisine

Yacht Chef Prepares Cuisine

The crew will be preparing on-board meals during your charter. Once you board, reprovisioning may not be available, depending on your charter location, so all meals must be planned in advance. If there are special dietary requests, certain items may need to be ordered in advance to have on board.

Before your charter we will send you a comprehensive provisioning form that will ask you not only what you like to eat, but how you like to eat. You can request low-fat meals with sauces on the side as a priority, and whether you prefer your main meal at lunch or dinner.

In certain locations your fish dinner can be caught fresh and prepared by your chef minutes later. Shellfish can be purchased right from the fisherman or shell farm. Lobsters right from the lobster trap and steamed in clean seawater are an unforgettable treat.

Chefs can accommodate all allergies and food requests such as gluten and dairy-free, as well as tree nut allergies. Just be sure to include all dietary requests and needs when completing your provisioning form. If chartering in a new location, take advantage of the opportunity to try fresh local cuisine from that region.

#4: Unplug

Many of our private yachts have excellent WiFi and numerous connectivity options for playing music, entertaining the children, checking in with the office, etc. Despite these amenities, we highly recommend stepping away from email, chat, and social media for at least a little while. They will still be there when you finish hiking volcanoes, scuba diving with tropical fish, and getting in from a night out at chic clubs. For any movies you might want to see or music you might want to hear, download those while at home before embarking on your yacht charter vacation.

#7: Ask About Pets

In some cases, Fido or Daisy can join you on your charter. First, you’ll want to check on the rules with your charter broker. Once you know your dog will be allowed, make sure to check on the following:

Documentation: Find out any paperwork that may be required for each country you will be entering on your charter.

Microchipping: Check to see if the country(ies) where you will cruise require(s) that an animal be microchipped.

Fear and anxiety: If your dog has never been on a yacht, consider if this is the best vacation for your pet, and if your dog will be comfortable with the whole boating experience. A yacht may make a dog accustomed to stable land feel uncertain and anxious.

Bathroom needs: Which supplies do you need so that your pet can be comfortable?

Pet flotation device: Bring one that your dog will find comfortable, and expect your pet to wear a flotation device at all times when on deck or in the ship’s tender.

#8: Pre-Assign Staterooms

This is your choice. You can either pre-assign staterooms to your guests, or allow everyone to choose upon boarding. Pre-assigning staterooms will allow the crew to immediately take all luggage to the right stateroom upon boarding.

After Boarding: Living On Board Your Charter Yacht

Warm Welcome from the Crew

The preliminary work is done, and now you are on board, ready to enjoy your fabulous vacation. Here are a few basic tips we compiled for all guests when on board your chosen charter yacht on a yacht charter holiday.

Enjoy the yacht as you would your own home

It might take you a day or two to fully relax. That’s normal! The vessel will soon become your home away from home.

Allow time for crew housekeeping

Part of the crew’s job is to keep things sparkling and to clean your stateroom every day. Be aware of their need to clean, giving them the time and space to do so.

Listen to safety briefings

This is not only a requirement when boarding a vessel, it is also important for your safety. The safety briefing given at the beginning of any charter includes how to avoid dangerous equipment, the location of the medical kits and lifejackets, and where to muster in the unlikely event that all must abandon ship.

Follow the “barefoot” rule

When boarding, expect that your street shoes go into a basket or another location on deck to be gathered when heading ashore during the charter. The usual mode on board is barefoot. Shoes with land dirt on the soles can scuff and damage yacht decks. Anyone that needs to wear shoes on board is welcome to do so. Just bring a pair of new or very well-cleaned rubber-soled shoes to be worn solely on board.

Crew Gratuity

On every charter the crew is working very hard to supply you top service. It is customary at the end of the charter to leave a crew gratuity. This is discretionary and is based on what you feel the crew has earned. The gratuity range is from 5 or 10 percent up to 15 or 20 percent, depending on the charter location. Your charter broker will advise the crew gratuity range for the location in which your charter takes place in advance of the charter. If crew gratuity is earned, it is given to the captain to divide up equally amongst the crew. The work of each—whether in the engine room or on deck—adds up to an enjoyable charter..

Plan special occasions ahead of time

The crew wants to create a fun environment, but they do need to be able to plan for all special events or celebrations in advance. This way, it can be ready when you board. With complete information, the crew will be able to do a better job for you in creating events such as a special birthday party, a themed dinner night or a wine tasting of local boutique wines.

Smoking?

Marcato, 140' expedition luxury charter yacht in Highborne Cay, the Exumas, Bahamas

Family Breakfast on Yacht Charter

Be sure to check before booking your yacht re: the smoking or non-smoking standard on board. Every yacht has a standard on smoking or non-smoking which will include whether you can or cannot indulge in the occasional after-dinner cigar. If smoking is allowed, it will be in exterior areas only. Check with the crew on where smoking zones might be on board.

The very nature of luxury private yacht charter is an entirely customizable experience. This extends from food and drink to unique activities such as a murder mystery night and celebrating special occasions on board.

Just be sure to let the crew know all group needs and desires in advance. It will all be ready and waiting on board at the beginning of your charter, so you can have the best and most memorable time possible. On a private yacht charter, there is no such thing as providing the crew with too much information. And do ask any question you would like to ask in advance. Every detail helps!

Your Private Yacht Charter Checklist for 2020Chantal Maxwell2020-03-27T11:28:05-04:00

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