~sailing vacation

 

A List of The Things to Bring on Your Sailing Vacation

You should make a list of things you will bring on your sailing vacation. This will make it easier for you to pack only the essentials even if you will only be away for a few days. 

The first thing you have to get is a bag. You must never use hard sided suitcases because of the limited space. Instead, use a duffel bag or back pack. The nice thing about them is that they can be folded when you have transferred your clothes into the closet. 

The most important thing you should pack for your sailing vacation is your travel documents. Without the, you will not be able to go anywhere so make sure that these are stored in a secure place. You should also make a few photocopies of these documents so in the event they get lost, you still have something to show. 

What is a duffel bag without clothes? Chances are you don’t have to bring much during the trip if most of the time, you will be wearing a swimsuit and have something to cover yourself. But if there are formal events on board or on land, it will be a good idea to bring one dress trouser and jacket for the men and nice dress for the women. 

The rule of thumb when it comes to clothes is to find out what will the weather be like when you are at sea. What you bring is different when your sailing vacation takes you to the Carribean or in Alaska. If you will be out in the sun a lot, make sure you have sun protection so your skin is not burned. If it is cold, you should have Chap Stick for your lips. 

Passengers who are on medication should not forget to bring their prescription for the voyage. These should be packed in their original containers to avoid any problems when these are inspected by customs. You should also bring some extras in case there are delays when it is time to go home. 

It also wouldn’t hurt to bring a first aid kit just in case you get hurt. You can buy these from the supermarket and also a flashlight so you are prepared in the event that there is a power outage. 

For those who are going to the Caribbean, it will be a good idea to bring your own water gear. This will save you money because you have to pay a certain amount just to borrow them. 

Another important thing you should pack for your sailing vacation is a camera. This will allow you to take pictures so you have something to show the people back home. Since digital cameras are the trend these days, bring an extra memory card and batteries so you don’t miss anything even if you forgot to recharge it the night before.  Don’t forget to put this in a waterproof bag like a Zip lock so water or dust does not damage it. 

A bag, travel documents, clothes, water gear, first aid kit, medicine and a camera are just some of the things you should put in your list for things to bring on your sailing vacation. If there are others you are thinking of bringing, think about it first before adding it to the list. 

Wonderful Antigua Sailing Vacations 

Antigua sailing vacations is one of the most luxurious trips one can ever have. This is because the experience would finally fulfill dreams for the ultimate island getaway. For people who have not set foot on the Antigua, a sailing vacation is perfect opportunities because it can give you ease and comfort in exploring the seas of a place not all people know of. 

Antigua is a tropical nation with warm and hospitable people, wonderful weather, and almost 400 breathtaking beaches. More and more people choose to sail Antigua because it embodies a place where everybody can relax in a wonderful environment with good food, hospitable people, and unique culture. 

If you are planning to go on Antigua sailing vacations, it is a must that you prepare first for the trip. The most basic thing that you can do is to introduce yourself to the place by knowing the basic things about it. You can do this by visiting various websites that offer information on Antigua. These sites will give you an overview about the place, what to expect, how to get there, and a wide array of activities available for you.

By visiting a websites, you can also get travel discounts or cheaper airfare fees especially when you book for a much earlier date. Getting a low rate airfare to get you to Antigua is ideal to help you save some money for the big adventure—the sailing vacation. 

Aside from browsing the Internet, you can also get important information and tips from travel magazines, which feature the place. In these feature stories and articles, you can get various opinions, comments, and observations about the place that can help you decide if you really can afford Antigua sailing vacations or if everything will worth the trip. 

Things to consider 

Aside from being knowledgeable about the place, there are other things that you should consider to ensure that your trip would be a success. One of which is the cost of the whole trip. Knowing and calculating your costs and possible expenditures during Antigua sailing vacations can greatly help you set a realistic budget during your stay. By estimating the possible cost of your sailing vacation, you can set your budget in advance so you wouldn’t be spending more than you can afford to spend. 

Another advantage of knowing how much you will spend will also help your leave your worries behind because you have enough money to spend on something during the entire trip. (TIP: If possible, always make sure that you leave an allowance or you allot at least 10 to 20 percent of the total of your budget to spend on emergency cases.) 

The most important expenses that you should expect from your from your Antigua sailing vacations is accommodation. This very important in planning your budget because this is where you will stay once the busy day is finished. Many people make good accommodations a priority because this is their home when out of the house while others are not so much into good accommodations because they think that they should be getting as much exposure as they can get when they are in a vacation destination.

During sailing vacations, accommodations—through the boat you will be using—matters because this is where you will spend most of your time. If you want ultimate comfort, choose a crewed boat where everything is laid out for you. You need not worry about anything—food, lodgings, and entertainment.

If you are going on your own Antigua sailing vacation, you can choose a bare boat with all the amenities that you need for your trip. 

The Benefits of Bahamas Inclusive Sailing Vacation 

Majority of Bahamas inclusive sailing vacations include charters that offer all-inclusive 7-day scuba charters, snorkeling charters, and sport fishing charters wherein there are so many activities offered.

Compared to the usual sailing vacations, an inclusive Bahamas sailing vacation include airport transfers, captain and service crews, all major meals including snacks, all access to any kind of drinks and beverages in a bar that is fully stocked, several freshwater showers on deck, a chef or hostess, dive masters, hooka systems, water activities equipment for scuba dicing such as masks, fins or snorkels, various floaters, licenses for fishing, several beach equipment, as well as a crew tee shirt and hat. 

A Bahamas inclusive sailing vacation also offers first class amenities such as double staterooms/suite with lavatory and hot water shower, oversize ports as well as hatches for better ventilation, satellite TV WITH VCR& DVD per stateroom, internet service that is high speed and wireless, several underwater metal detectors, fishing gears and reels, high quality hair dryers, a digital photo album with DVD above or underwater as well as various resource materials and tools for recreation such as books, games and even musical instruments. 

Aside from these advantages, other benefits of Bahamas inclusive vacation include: 

1. Free map of the Bahamas along with a handy vacation guide. Usually, these copies are limited and you are lucky enough to have a copy of the guide that contain a list of spectacular beaches as well as a long list of water activities that include snorkeling, scuba diving, deep sea-fishing, and surfing. You can also get a preview about the breath taking sights that you will see during your Bahamas inclusive sailing vacations. 

2. First class accommodation. A Bahamas inclusive sailing vacation can also give you access to the high class accommodation that is comparable or even better to hotels and resorts in land. If you choose an inclusive Bahamas sailing vacation, you will experience first class sailing adventure without any hassles. Here, you also get to choose from wide gastronomic selections that will suit your appetite. Usually, inclusive sailing vacations involve various types of foods—from Mediterranean, Asian, French, Japanese, or Fusion cuisines—there is always something to choose from. If you prefer a certain type of food, you can ask the chef to cook it for you right away. 

3. Access to the most beautiful beaches. This is probably the biggest benefit of a Bahamas inclusive sailing vacation because you will get access to the most beautiful beaches in the area as well as in the whole of the Caribbean. Since an all inclusive vacation aims to offer the best, you can get first hand experience from the best, charming, and hospitable people, and will be given an opportunity to explore places that are closed to other people or others who are also on a sailing vacation but did not opt for an all inclusive sailing vacation. 

4. Hassle free sailing vacation. If you have chosen Bahamas inclusive sailing vacations, you can ensure that there will be no more hassles on your part. In terms of accommodations, food, tours, and boat management, you're rest assured that everything will be taken care of for you. Since you don’t have to worry about anything, you can focus all your attention and energy to enjoying and admiring what Bahamas has to offer.  

Caribbean Cruise Vacation

Caribbean cruise vacations are very popular especially during the winter. This is perhaps because people want to feel warm when the weather back home is cold. 

But cruise lines sail along the Caribbean waters all year round. If you don t want to go during the peak season, try booking during the summer because this is the best time to go bargain hunting. 

There are a lot of cruise lines to choose from. Some of them include the Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Crystal Cruises. For those who find this to be way out of their budget, they can inquire at Seabourn Cruise Lines.

Let’s talk a little bit about these companies. 

The Royal Caribbean's fleet offers to the Eastern, Southern and Western Caribbean. You could be away for a few days to a couple of weeks. The Radiance of the Seas for instance sails round trip from Ft. Lauderdale to San Juan, Philipsburg, St. Thomas and Nassau. 

Apart from the good food on board, there are activities that you can do once you reach port like snorkeling, nature trekking, scuba diving and Catamaran sailing. 

If you happen to book a trip in January, February, November or December, there are festivals that you shouldn’t afford to miss such as the Aruba Carnival Celebration, the Barbados Jazz Festival, Mustique Blues Festival, Bob Marley Week in Jamaica, Valentines Day, Tranquility Jazz Festival, Anguilla, St. Patrick’s Day, Bahamas International Film Festival and St. Nicholas Day in the Dutch Caribbean.

The Norwegian Cruise line offers almost the same itinerary as the Royal Caribbean. You can choose the three day , seven day or fifteen day package to the Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean and Southern Caribbean aboard its large ships. 

Crystal Cruises only has 1 package and this voyage lasts for 12 days. You depart from New York, then move on to Bermuda/Hamilton, then to St. Maarten/Phillipsburg, Antigua, St. John, Curacao/Willemstad, Grand Cayman/Georgetown before heading home to Miami. 

The Seabourn Cruise has only 2 packages. You can choose to go on a Caribbean vacation that could last 7 or 13 days. Apart from Fort Lauderdale, you can also catch a ride in New York City and visit Charlotte Amalie (St Thomas), and Bridgetown, Barbados. The best part about being in a yacht compared to a big ship is that it is not very crowded. 

You can find out more about these shipping companies by letting your travel agent do the research or browsing online yourself.

By doing so, you will be able to know when are the scheduled their trips, compare their prices and find out what is inclusive in their packages. Once you have confirmed your trip, all you have to do now is pack your bags and leave.

For those coming from the west coast or mid-west, don’t forget to also plan your air travel so you don’t miss the ship before it leaves port. Some of these companies already have air fare and transfers inclusive so there is nothing to worry about. 

The Caribbean cruise vacation is one of the best places to go if you are on your honeymoon, celebrating your anniversary or simply need time away from the real world. Once you come back, you will feel refreshed and ready to continue what you were doing before that. 

The Ultimate Adventure with Caribbean Sailing Vacations 

The Caribbean is indeed one of the beautiful places on Earth. With its mesmerizing aura and sights to behold, more and more people are planning to go on Caribbean sailing vacations. But, just like any vacation destination, Caribbean sailing vacations can be a hassle and much more, a tiring experience if you don’t prepare for it. 

Planning your sailing vacation 

There are so many ways to prepare for a sailing vacation in the Caribbean. One is gathering as much information that you can get so you won't be at loss during the trip. 

To gather information, you can ask those people who have experienced it for first hand comments and opinions. Probably, these people who have gone to the sailing trip are the most authorized to talk about it because they have experienced it themselves. You can ask them about their personal impression on certain places as well as tips in order to make the trip more enjoyable and worthwhile. If you are getting information from these people, make sure that you ask those that you know personally. Since observations can be subjective, you might be getting wrong information and impression. 

Another means of planning for Caribbean sailing vacations is by reading about the place that you are planning to visit. Today, there are so many travel magazines that feature almost all places in the world. If you are buying one, make sure that it includes all the places you would want to go so you can save on some money. In the articles inside the magazine, everything about the place will be featured and you will have an idea what to expect. 

If you want faster and updated information, surf the Internet and browse various travel websites. Here, you can visit multiple sites all at the same time. You can even ask online inquiries and get travel updates on the date you wish to sail. If you are lucky enough, you can even get discounts from various travel agencies once you book early. 

Another means of planning your sailing vacation is to "schedule" what you need to do during the trip. "Scheduling" means that you have to specify which are the activities that you want to do in a specific time, date, and place. You have to set your priorities so you can maximize your trip and your money. 

Things to consider in planning your Caribbean sailing vacations include the food, your accommodation,   and the schedule of boat transfers if there are any. 

The places to visit should also be of major consideration. The places to visit would depend on your interest and your curiosity. If you don’t have any specific place or places in mind, conduct a simple research through the Internet. 

Before you leave 

Although you have planned your Caribbean sailing vacation well, there would always be glitches just before you leave. This major glitch involves the things that you need in the duration of the vacation. To ensure that nothing will be left behind and you will be bringing the things that you need, make sure that you list down all the things that you will be needing before you pack. 

The most important things that you should consider when going on a Caribbean sailing vacation include storage spaces such as duffel bags, pieces of clothing, tools or devices for relaxation, important documents, medication or first aid kit that contains aids for in simple ailments, money for emergency and shopping purposes, toiletries, and protectors from the sun's rays such as sunglasses, hats, and lotions with UV protection. 

Corsica Sailing Vacation

You don’t have to ride a big ship in order to enjoy the ocean. This is because there are yachts that you can rent in order to enjoy a sailing vacation in the south of France like in Corsica. 

Corsica is the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea just south of France and west of Italy. If you want to get a bargain coming here, it is best to book your sailing vacation during the lean months of June and September. 

When you lease a yacht, you have the option of sailing into one of its many ports. These are located in the Corsican Cape, the east coast, the Gulf of Valinco, the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Region of Calvi. 

Majority of these are open during the winter but two of these namely Cargese and Sagone are small harbors open all year round as well as Bastia being a big harbor. 

There are different sizes of boats to choose from should you decide to go a sailing vacation in Corsica. The smallest can accommodate 4 to 6 passengers while the largest could hold 8 to 12.

The price per boat is on a weekly basis and if you know how to sail, you can rent one at a cheapest price. For those who don’t want to do anything, they can also get one that has a skipper and also a hostess or cook. 

The price you pay normally includes the insurance deposit, gas, water, meals, outboard motor, inventory, end cleaning, local taxes, ports, linen and towels. You will have to buy your own drinks before coming aboard or buy it while you are on board. 

One of the things you will enjoy in your Corsican sailing vacation is the weather. You will enjoy the climate both on land and at sea. Along its coast, there are many beaches to choose from so you can just drop anchor and swim for shore. 

A good example is the Gulf of Sagone that is known for its sandy beaches that extend all the way up to Capo di Feno and Punti di Cargese. If you want to move deeper inland, you can sail to the Gulf of Liscia where you can visit the ruins of Castellu di Capraia or the 17th century watchtowers of Genoa.

The island also produces its own wine so you can visit the vineyard near the town of Cinarca. For those who want to interact with the locals, they can visit the towns of Calcataggio and Sari d'Orcino.

For those that want to do some extreme sports, you can climb some rugged mountains like those near the Scandola Reserve, Piana calanques, and the Ascent of the Capo of Orto.

You can also scuba dive and explore an underwater cave located in the Grotta di Nereo. While you are there, don’t forget to check out other interesting sites like Dei Portici, Grotte di Punta Salinetto, and Grotta Belvedere.

So on your next trip, see what a Corsica sailing vacation has to offer. You can get information about it online to see what inclusive in the package or get some information from your travel agent. Not only do you get to sail around this island but also get to see the sites when you decide to travel inland. 

Enjoying Hawaii Sailing Vacations 

Although some people say that a Hawaii sailing vacation is expensive, it is worth it when it comes to ultimate comfort especially if you decided to get a crewed boat. This is because the crewed boat will ensure that everything will be handled by the charter that you have chosen unlike when you go on all by yourself through a bare boat.  

The happy weather 

People who have been into Hawaii sailing vacations would agree that the most enjoyable part of the whole trip is the tropical weather offered by Hawaii. The place is considered to be one of the America people's greatest natural treasures—both for tourists and locals. Here, majority of the guests are foreigners that flock the islands and sands to escape the busy city life. 

Hawaii is composed of eight major islands and a network of more than 100 islands and islets located all around the island chain that is located in the Pacific Ocean. Being in a chain that is home to some of the most unpredictable waters on Earth, the islands of Hawaii are most sought after to visit because they are truly unique. 

Because of its subtropical climate, Hawaii enjoys the best of both worlds—the good and the worst of it. The tropical islands are home to some of the world’s best white sand beaches, because of the mild temperate weather almost all throughout the year revelers can enjoy the sun, sand and surf. But since it is part of the Pacific's unpredictable waters, storms can hit it’s hardest every now and then. Still on a good day, the sun shines almost all day long so there's no need for jackets and heavy coats.

For people looking who are planning the perfect vacation, weather is the number one factor to take into account. Aside from nice weather, Hawaii is also synonymous to a place where people could enjoy water sports of all kinds like snorkeling, wreck diving, underwater scuba, surfing, or just basking in the sun. This gives the feeling of relaxation to the tired mind and rejuvenation to the burdened body. And because water has natural healing properties and the most common healing agent, people do more than flock the islands of Hawaii to fill their need to get away.

The Hawaiian weather is also good for those who want a good tan because the sun shines here just enough to cook but not enough to burn. If you are on a Hawaii sailing vacation, it is the best time to get the greatest tan of your life without worrying that you will get sunburns. Just make sure that before you get exposed, apply a considerable amount of sunscreen to protect your skin from too much UV rays due to prolonged exposure. 

The best option 

If you are planning to indulge into Hawaii sailing vacations, yacht charters are the best options for you. Through a yacht charter, you can enjoy sailing vacation in a tropical paradise. Through a yacht charter, you can sail around the most gorgeous coastlines out there. 

Opting for Hawaii sailing vacations would ensure that you would enjoy that balmy breeze of the tropical island by lying barely dressed on the deck of the yacht. From here, you can watch great surfers as they do their signature and acrobat moves. You can also get a good view of the huge waves as they go back and forth across the dock.

Aside from great sea view, you can also get a good view of some majestic sceneries and landscapes along the way. 

How to Look for a Family Sailing Vacation Package 

Going on a vacation as a family may be fun but the costs can be depressing. Just imagining paying for 6 plane tickets and then meals for six for the duration of the vacation is enough to send anyone in the loony bin. With the rising costs of commodities, only the crazy or the super rich can afford a family vacation, let alone a family sailing vacation. After all, taking a cruise is much more expensive than flying in. 

But to people who are resourceful and wise, finding the perfect family sailing vacation package that is affordable is a piece of cake. If you know where to look and how to look, that vacation in the Bahamas and in the Caribbean will not just be a dream away. Here are some tips that will help you in your bargain hunting. 

1.  Go online

The internet is a great resource for bargains. One of those being sold over the internet are travel packages. Look into airline websites and cruise ship websites and see what their latest offerings are. Here you will find great bargains, all inclusive packages that sometimes do not cost as much.

Another place to try is the ebay auction houses where you can find great bargains. It may not be common but sometimes there are people who have planned their vacations but suddenly cannot make it. The tickets and accommodations may not be as many as you want but the discount that you will get can save you a lot of money.

2. Go in groups

Take advantage of the fact that you are part of a group. People who buy in bulk will of course be offered cheaper prices than those buying one or two tickets. Some cruise ships even offer buy 5 free 1 tickets or boarding.  There are also a lot of packages that are already made for groups. This is to encourage people to sign up with the cruise ship or with the airlines. After all, it is easier to fill up the ship and the airline with groups of people rather than with one or two tickets sold.

3. Book early

If you can plan your family sailing vacation early, do so. This is because it is cheaper if you buy your tickets and accommodations early. You will not only get discounts but may even get great packages especially when you sign up on an off peak season. Even if you reserved your vacation on a peak season, if you did it really early, you will get great discounts for it. 

4.  Do it off peak

Prices are more expensive during peak season because the demand for tickets and accommodations are also high. This is the time when people often take holidays and vacations like during Christmas, New Year, Summer, Spring and during Easter.

If you take a family vacation during off peak season, you can save as much as 50 percent, not only on the tickets and hotel costs but also on the meals and even the souvenir items.  And because there is not much people around, you can enjoy your vacation more. Just think about it, having the hotel pool or the cruise ship all to your family.

A family sailing vacation is not expensive… if you know how to find one. 

How to Look for a Sailing Vacation in Bahamas 

A sailing vacation in Bahamas is the ultimate way to travel in comfort and in style.  With all its islands and beautiful beaches, Bahamas is the perfect place to just get away from the stressful city life and just relax under the heat of the sun. And because you are sailing to your destination, you can relax onboard while traveling unlike with airlines where you have to content yourself with cramped seating arrangement and long connecting flights. When you are traveling on a cruise ship, you are like staying in a hotel with all the amenities at your disposal. 

But just as it is enjoyable and relaxing, it can put quite a big dent into your savings account. A sailing vacation to Bahamas is not actually cheap. It can mean your entire savings for the month. But to the wise traveler, a Bahamas sailing vacation can be affordable. Below are some tips on how to find a cheap sailing vacation in Bahamas at a fraction of the cost. 

1. Think of the Time 

Prices of sailing vacations and even hotels vary. They don’t have any fixed price. This is because the rate during off peak days and months are cheaper than peak days. If you can afford to take a leave of absence in the office on days that are not usually holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year, do so. Rates at this time are often 25 to 50 percent cheaper. And this does not only apply to the hotel and cruise ships. Even the food, souvenir items and even the fee for various activities are also cheaper. 

2. Book early 

If you can plan your vacation ahead of time and stick to the schedule, you are good to go. You can save as much as 50 percent and maybe even more in airline tickets, accommodation and even a room in the cruise ship. Companies do this to encourage early booking by their clients. 

3. Research 

The internet offers a lot of special discounts and great packages that will surely fit your budget. All you have to do is to just look for it. Go to airline and cruise ship sites and compare their prices. Look at the packages they are offering and see if the inclusions are good. When doing this, never be afraid to ask questions. It is your right to know what is included in the package. Be careful of hidden charges because the cost may not be what the initial advertisement said it is. 

4. Go to bidding sites 

There are people who sell travel arrangement through Ebay and other bidding sites. Look at those packages.  These are often the trips that will not be used because of a change in plans. They are sold at cheaper prices because they will not be used anyway; so grab the opportunity! 

5. Avoid the summer rush 

Although going to Bahamas in the summer is just about perfect, if you cannot do this because of budget constraints, what’s the point? If you really want a sailing vacation in Bahamas; then go there during off peak season like in autumn or in spring. You may not have the summer sun but at least you will get to enjoy Bahamas. It’s your choice, no summer or nothing at all?  

How to Take Great Photos during a Family Sailing Vacation

One of the most important things in a sailing vacation is the photos. After all, how else can you capture the moment and freeze it forever than record your experiences through photographs? 

Although there are video cameras that may record every scene and even every word that is spoken, there is still magic in photographs. This is especially true for people who  have kept albums and scrapbooks through the years and would want to continue with the tradition. 

But taking photos is not as simple as clicking the shutter. There are many things to consider when taking photographs. This is even more true if there are many people involved like the whole family, not to mention little children who are just so hard to capture on film. Below are some tips to help you produce great photos during your family sailing vacation. 

1.  Check the lighting

The light is very important in producing great photos. Too much light overhead or at the back can cast a shadow on your subject and make the photo too dark. Light can also result to overexposure where the colors appear white and washed out like when you have washed a favorite t-shirt over and over again and the colors faded.

Too little light can make the photos blurred or make it too dark that one cannot even see the subject, in this case, the people. This often happens when you are taking photographs of people at night. If this is the case, then you should try to get a location where there is some light overhead or on the side. 

2. Check your battery and your memory

Nothing can be more frustrating than finding out that you don’t have any more battery or memory right in the middle of your trip. Although you may be able to buy one from the cruise ship store or at the malls at the shore, it would be pretty expensive and you would not even know if you can find one that is compatible with your camera.

So avoid the frustration and the stress of it all, bring with you enough batteries and memory sticks to last you a year! You’ll never know just how many photographs you will need to take. If you can bring a charger, all the more better. You can just plug it in your hotel room or in the cruise ship. You are also paying for the use of their electricity anyway so why scrimp?

3. Look for the unusual

One of the simple rules in photography is to find something unique in the environment or in the sight and take a photo of it. This will make the photo more interesting and will also be a conversation starter in reunions. Make sure though that you know what you are taking photographs of. Bring a notebook with you so that you can record everything that you have seen and took picture of. Photos do not just stop with clicking the camera, it also involves getting to know the story behind the place or the sight and knowing what it is called. 

4. Take photos of people

Nothing makes a photo interesting than putting people alongside the sights. Besides this is your purpose when you brought your camera, record your family’s experience during a sailing vacation through a photo, so it is just right that you include them in every frame that you create.  

Off to a Jamaica Sailing Cruise Vacation!

Jamaica sailing cruise vacation offers you all the beauty the place has to offer. Since it is one of the most popular West Indies' island, Jamaica is quite famous not only for unique gastronomic selections, wide array of music selection to choose from, and of course, its magnificent beaches. 

If you ask people who have been to a Jamaica sailing cruise vacation, they would tell you not to miss out on its beaches. This is because majority of tourists who go to there love the Jamaica beaches among any other attractions. The most famous beaches to visit include the Negril, the Montego Bay, and the Ocho Rios. These three are major and the most beautiful beaches Jamaica has to offer. 

Aside from skinny-dipping in the wonderful sands and clear waters of any of these beaches, there are so many water activities you can choose from. With its calm waves, sailing is the most famous sport in the place—both for foreigners and locals. And since the water in the is lukewarm as always, many people cant get enough of swimming in the beaches. 

For vacationists who are into sailing, visiting Negril is a must. Located 50 miles at the west side of Montego Bay, Negril is a superb beach that is ideal for almost all kinds of water sports and activities. 

Ocho Rios, on the other hand, is also among the most visited places in Jamaica—especially its Blue Mountains that is filled with wide variety and selection of fauna and flora. This is the most ideal place to stay in especially to those who can't live without the comforts of commercialization because almost all amenities are available at the hotels nearby. 

Among the three beaches mentioned, the most popular is the Montego Bay wherein you can find three of the most sought-after beaches in the world—the Doctor's Cave Beach that has a five-mile stretch of white sand and has peaceful waves perfect for cruise sailing, the Cornwall Beach that has smooth and white sand and the Walter Fletcher Beach with clear and warm water also ideal for sailing. 

What you need before leaving 

Once you have decided to go on a Jamaican sailing cruise vacation, you should consider not only your destination experience but also a list of things that will ensure the success of the trip including:

1. Peak seasons. The peak season for tourists start from January until March because this is the most ideal time to arrange Jamaica sailing cruise vacation. People who are planning to cruise should remember not to arrange their sailing vacations from the month of July until November. This is because no one can sail in the ocean because these months are cyclone season in Jamaica. 

2. Type of ship to be used. When planning a Jamaica sailing cruise vacation, you can choose from three types of ships. These include the skippered bareboat, the crewed charter, and the bareboat. 

3. Legalities. Aside from choosing the right boat that will cater to your needs, always bear in mind some legalities and confirmations for your Jamaica sailing cruise vacation. These include informing the customs of Jamaica about your arrival in the territory and your intention to stay for a couple of days of weeks.

Here, the officials from customs will conduct an inspection in your ship and will ask you to fill up necessary documents such as ship registration, affirmation, permission for departure and a list where the stores of the ships are recorded. 

Having Hassle-Free Luxury Sailing Vacations 

 

For people who live busy and stressful lives, luxury sailing vacations is one the most effective ways of relaxation. This is because everything will be provided in a ‘silver platter’ once they have decided to on a luxurious sailing break. 

Today, more and more people are getting into the hobby of going to luxury sailing vacations because they don’t only get pampering treatment but also a good exposure to the seas. Aside from providing a very relaxing environment, luxury sailing vacations also provide people the opportunity to discover other cultures once they sail from one place to another. 

Preparing for luxury sailing vacations

If you are one of those who are planning to go on a luxurious sailing vacation either with your family members, loved ones or group of friends, it is always best to prepare before you go on a trip. 

For those who are planning for luxury sailing vacations, it is always best to conduct a simple research first on what the trip is all about. When you have knowledge about the vacation, you will—more or less—know what are the things that you should and should not expect from the trip. 

You can get this information by asking people you know that have experienced luxury sailing vacations. If you know the person, he or she can answer all your inquiries and can give you accurate feedback on the totality of the sailing vacations. That person or persons can give you honest opinion about the trip, the facilities that would be available and the type of service given. 

If you don’t know people who went luxury sailing vacations, you can gather as much information by reading travel materials such as magazines, pamphlets, and even reviews in newspapers. Here, you won’t get the same accuracy when you asked the person who have experienced the trip personally but rest assured that whatever that is written in any of the reading materials have some truth on it. These pieces of information from any or all of these materials can help you decide which is the best set up for you and which will be more worth the money you will be spending. 

Aside from getting first hand information from people who did luxury sailing vacations and getting second hand information from various reading materials, you cab also get helpful information from the Internet. With just several clicks of the mouse, you can be transported to different in an instant. This easy access in information will make it easier for you decide which way to go. 

By visiting various websites that talk about luxury sailing vacations, you can also get information on different issues that need to be discussed when planning a sailing vacation. Since luxury sailing can be pretty expensive, it is always best to know and set your budget for a specific luxury sailing vacation. In the Internet, you can see a lot of sites that offer almost all information about luxury sailing vacations.

And since the pieces of information are at your hand, you can compare each facility and the services offered. If you are looking for trusted names in sailing, it is best that this establishment in credentialed—with all the facilities and service as promised in various promotional and advertising campaigns it has. 

To make luxury sailing vacations a very pleasant and memorable experience, it is best to familiarize yourself with anything about it so you won’t feel loss once you get to the ship. 

Places To Go During Your Caribbean Sailing Vacation

There are many places to see when you decide to go on a Caribbean sailing vacation. After all, the area itself comprises more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs and cays. You just have to rent a boat or tell the skipper that this is where you want to go. By choosing to rent a bare boat or a chartering a crewed vessel, you will be able to practice your sailing skills.  

The sailing capital of the Caribbean is the British Virgin Islands. With consistent trade winds blowing from the northeast at 10 to 25 knots, clear water and about 60 islands and cays to explore in an area that's 32 miles long and 15 miles wide.

If you want to start your vacation here, go to Tortola that happens to be the largest island where many operators are available to rent bareboat craft or crewed yachts, depending on your skills and interests. 

But to get here, it is best to book with a private plane charter to avoid several connections in order to get there. One event you shouldn’t miss when you are here is the BVI Spring Regatta where 100 yachts compete as part of the events in the three-day festival.

There is also St. Vincent and the Grenadine Islands. Here, the wind comes from the northeast and blows at 10 to 25 knots. Most of the islands here are undeveloped so you can drop anchor and do some sunbathing while the rest can go and have a picnic.  You can also do some shopping in town where spice market is known for its pervasive fragrances.

Another group of islands that is worth seeing is the Bahamas just 100 miles of the coast of Florida. Here, you are surrounded by turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Abaco is the major centre here for yacht charters and from here, you can check out Andros Island, Cat Island, Crooked Island, Long Island, Mayaguana San Salvador Island or Nassau that are make up just a few of the 700 islands. 

Don’t forget the islands of the French West Indies  which includes Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin and St. Barts. The winds here are between 10 to 20 knots and the best time to sail in these parts is between December and April which also happens to be the dry season.

Fort-de-France in Martinique is one of the Caribbean's loveliest bays, and of the island's several marinas, Le Marin's Port de Plaisance is the island's biggest and best-equipped. 

If you think about it, any of these places is a good starting point to start your Caribbean sailing vacation given that millions of tourists visit this place every year. 

This makes this island paradise is ideal for everyone as there are packages available for couples, honeymooners and adult only so you just have to mention which one you want to avail of. These are often posted in magazines and a lot of them are available online which means it won’t be long before you find a package that suits your budget. 

But apart from the different places you can go, don’t forget to indulge yourself in some of the activities that you can do. These include snorkeling, board water sports, parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking and scuba diving. 

You will just have to borrow the equipment if you don’t happen to have any of these as part of your luggage. 

If you don’t like large crowds, never plan your Caribbean sailing vacation during the peak months. This will also save you money as the rates will also go down. 

Sailing Vacation in Martinique

A sailing vacation in Martinique is just one of the showcases in the French Caribbean. Not only will tourists be able to enjoy the flawless beaches, lush forests, beautiful flowers and coral reefs but also the culture and panache of French culture. 

There are three places to visit here when you decide to go inland. 

The first is the capital itself that is Fort-de-France. There are a lot of old churches here like the St. Louis Roman Catholic Cathedral, the Sacre-Coeur de Balata Cathedral, that is a replica of the original in France, the Bibliotheque Schoelcher, which was built for the 1889 Paris Exposition, and then shipped to Martinique and reassembled, or the beautiful La Savane, a large park with walkways, views, and a marble statue of Empress Josephine.

Second is Saint-Pierre that was once the island’s capital before it was badly damaged by the volcanic eruption more than a century ago. The beaches here are quite different because where else on earth will you be able to walk on sand that is color grey or black. 

The Anse Turin beach just to the south has grey sand, jungles nearby, and the Musée Paul Gauguin, and the Anse Céron beach that is a short drive north has black sandy beaches, coconut palms, and some fantastic diving.

The Grand-Riviere is a fishing village situated on the cliffs on the northern tip of the island. It has some scenic roadways, which help to relax the mind. The tourist booth called the syndicat d'initiative offers some group hikes up to the nearby Mont Pelee, or you can fish or even try a little surfing while you're here.

You won’t have a problem looking for charter companies as there are plenty of them in the island.  The best place will probably be Port de Plaisance which can be found in Le Marin in the south that happens to be the biggest and most well-equipped marina on the island. 

There is also port at Pointe du Bout, which is located across from Fort de France, and there are ports in Le Robert and Le Francois on the Atlantic, and in Sainte-Anne, on the south of the island. 

To give you an idea of what is being offered, there are three types of boats to choose from namely bare boats, skippered boats, and crewed. 

In order for you to rent a bareboat, you must present a license so the company knows that their vessel will be returned in piece. They usually don’t come with extras like kayaks or scuba equipment so you will have to rent these separately. 

Skippered boats on the other hand come with a captain who will serve as both your guide and navigator. The cost of getting one is almost the same as a crewed boat but it does not include any meals. 

For those who have money, then go with a crewed charter. This is because everything you need will be taken cared of including the food so sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. 

You should be careful when you are going on a sailing vacation in Martinique and the nearby area so as not to cause damage to the vessel or the coral reefs. A bigger danger you should be aware of is the harsh weather during the summer as this causes choppy waves since it is hurricane season. The important thing is for you to have a safe journey while you are in the water until you return to port. 

Sailing Vacation in the Caribbean

There are lots of sailing destinations and if you are tired of the Virgin Islands then move on over to the Caribbean. 

The Caribbean islands are part of an island chain stretching 2,500 miles. Given the vast distance, it is no wonder that tourists spend weeks out here to enjoy the paradise it has to offer. 

Just like the Virgin Islands, there are a lot of charter companies which you can go to. They come in different sizes and perhaps the best that is a bit expensive is the chartered yacht. 

Aside from the yacht, the other features and benefits that come with it include meals, separate guest rooms, a galley, toilet and shower.

Since you are the guest aboard the ship, you can customize the menu by telling the crew before the trip what you will be stocking up on. You can do this by buying the stuff yourself, having someone from the crew do it for an additional fee or select from one of their pre-selected packages. 

Naturally, your supplies will dwindle as you stay longer at sea. This means that you have to stock up on supplies once again when you reach your next port of destination by going to the supermarket. 

Food purchased from the stalls is usually wrapped in newspaper. Since it will be hard to carry, it is best to go thee with your own sacks or bags. Once you return to the ship, make sure the crew washes it several times before this is consumed. 

Since most of the islands here are small and uninhabited, you are sure to explore places that not many have seen. You can even jump from the ship and swim in the crystal clear waters or even snorkel and dive when all the equipment you need to do such things are already on board. 

But if you can’t afford to rent a chartered yacht, don’t worry because you can probably get one that will cost as little as $50 if you are able to schedule a pre-arranged trip with several other guests to split the bill. 

One thing you have to be prepared for during you sailing vacation is the possibility of a hurricane. This generally occurs during the months of June until November. If you are not sure that this is the best time, reschedule the trip on another date as these things come and go. 

But if you insist on going, there are some online tools you can use to check if the area you will be saying has ever been hit before by a hurricane. 

The other option is to plan your itinerary to the islands further south because these are less likely to be affected by a hurricane. These places include the islands of Aruba, Barbados, Bonaire, Curacao, and Turks and Caicos.

A sailing vacation in the Caribbean could be what you are looking for the next time you want to go on leave. Some of the things you see here are just breathtaking and you will never find this anywhere in the globe. 

To help you get started on booking for Caribbean sailing vacation, you can look for a good deal either in magazines or online. If you are not sure which one is best, ask people you know who have tried it before or ask for the contact number of previous clients. 

Unveiling the Wonders of a Sailing Vacation 

Aside from having a peaceful environment in the middle of the sea, a journey through sailing vacation can also expose people to various orientations and routines as well as cultures. For people who are adventure-savvy, a sailing vacation is also a perfect venue because they can experience a lot or sea adventures and misadventures that can bring adrenalin rush. 

In a sailing vacation, you can choose either a crewed boat—that has crew to attend to all your needs—or a chartered barebones—with only a boat filled with amenities you need but no crew. No matter which one you choose, it is a must to pay attention to some considerations during the planning stage to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. 

1. Familiarize yourself about the activity. Just like in other activities, familiarizing yourself about the do's and don’ts of sailing vacation can greatly help you to make everything easier. If you know what and what not to do during the journey across the sea, you will avoid the things that can bring you or your company danger. Educating yourself everything about sailing vacation will also equip you to adjust in cases of emergency.

This knowing what to do is very important since it will be harder to ask for help when your miles away from the land. You can get basic information about sailing vacation by reading travel magazines, nautical books, and by browsing various websites that offer sailing tips and lessons. 

2. Take sailing lessons. This is very important especially for first-time sailors who would prefer to charter a barebones—a boat filled with everything needed except for the crew—because this will provide everything they need to know about sailing vacation. During the sailing lesson, you will be given first-hand information from people who have "been there and done that." Aside from first-hand knowledge, you will also be given practical tips and hands-on experience to know if you are equipped for the activity. 

3. Pick a destination. This is also one of the major things to consider when taking a sailing vacation because it will determine the outcome of the trip. Since a sailing vacation takes a lot of preparation, it is a must to ensure that every single minute will worth the trip. To ensure that the trip will enjoyable for everyone who will be a part of it, you should ask everyone where they would want to go. Once you have a list of possible places to go on a sailing vacation, research about those places.

Check the availability of boats that go there, the sight to be seen, the activities that can be done, and travel requirements needed. After knowing all these, present the facts to everyone and decide which destination appeals to everyone's comfort. If you are going by yourself, the major criteria in choosing a destination for a sailing vacation are your own preference and interest. 

4. Choosing a service. If you would want everything provided for you during your sailing vacation, opt for all-inclusive sailing vacations offered by various boat lines. If you prefer leisure vacation than that of an adventure vacation, going on a crewed boat is the best for you.

By choosing, it will ensure that you don’t have to do anything except that to sit on a plush chair or lay your back on a comfortable reclining bed while watching the breath taking sights, enjoying the soft breeze of the wind, and relaxing to the sounds of the waves. 

Sailing Vacations in the United States 

In choosing a destination for you sailing vacations in the US, always make your safety, comfort, and legalities as the main priorities. For those who don’t have any sailing experience in the US or to any other part of the world, it is best to rent a crewed boat wherein everything will be provided to you. The crew will ensure your safety because they are experienced enough to handle all kinds of cases in the middle of the sea.

A crewed boat also ensures that you have everything that you need—from accommodation, food, and even entertainment—are available. Here, all you have to do is lay your back while enjoying the beauty of the surroundings while listening to the relaxing water as it laps to the side of the boat. 

If you want more adventure, opt for a bareboat. A "bareboat" is a boat that you can rent filled with all the things and amenities needed for sailing without the crew. If you go on sailing vacations in the US using bareboat, it means that you have—more or less—experience in sailing.

If you think that your knowledge in sailing is not enough despite your experience, you can enroll in various sailing lessons to enrich the information that you have. During lessons, you will be given first hand information on sailing and hands-on experience on it. It is always best to attend sailing lessons before going on sailing vacations in the US to ensure that you would know what and what not to do especially in cases of emergency. 

Packing tips for sailing vacation in the US

Aside from educating yourself about your sailing destination, one of the things that you should consider before going on sailing vacations in the US is what are the things to pack. Bringing the things that you need would ensure that you will not miss out on something that is an integral part of your whole trip. 

The following are just some of the things that you need to pack for sailing vacations in the US: 

1. Travel documents. Since you'll be going in another territory, you will need documents that will support your identity such as passport and the sailing charter paperwork. Upon booking for sailing vacations in the US, you will be given a confirmation packet. (TIP: Bring photocopies of your travel documents in case of emergency or in cases it will be needed during visit to different islands. 

2. Storage. This should always be kept in mind because you need to limit it as much as possible. Bear in mind that hard-sided suitcases are not ideal since they are big and bulky. Opt for durable duffel bags because these can be folded when not in use. 

3. What to wear. Depending on the average weather condition of your vacation destination, the number of clothes should also be kept to a minimum. It is ideal to keep a pair of shorts, shirts, walking shoes, sandals, swimsuit, underwear sleepwear, toiletries, and towels. The number will depend on the number of days of your stay. 

4. Easy to carry bag. This is vital especially if you sailing vacations in the US involve land tour or travel. This easy to carry bag will hold your basic necessities such as wallet with money, a pair of shades, passport, several guide books, bottled water, a bottle of sunscreen for sun protection, powder case, lip balm and other small items you will be needing outside. 

Enjoyable Sailing Vacations 

A sailing vacation is one of the most enjoyable experiences for people who are mystified by the sea. This is because it gives an opportunity for them to live above the waters for duration of time where they can enjoy the beauty of the waters for as long as they want to. During a sailing vacation, those who want to feel serenity and tranquility can achieve this goal because they can be detached from the busy and toxic world of work. 

For people who are busy and would want to wind up, sailing vacations are perfect for them. This is because sailing vacations would not only give them a tranquil environment in the water but would also expose them to a different kind of routine and culture. 

Sailing vacations offer a different kind of challenge and adventure since involves a journey into the wonders of the sea. This is very challenging because you have to deal with the waters for as long as you can. But, since sailing vacations involve the sea, not everyone can juts do it without familiarizing themselves everything about it. 

People who are planning to conduct sailing vacations should be very well aware of what to do during the trip. It is a must that they are educated about their trips to ensure that they would know what to do once they are in the middle of the ocean. Before going to sailing vacations, people must conduct research first to familiarize themselves about the basics. People can get information from various Internet sites, books, magazines, as well as in attending a crash course on sailing. 

Experts say that hands-on knowledge and training about sailing vacations would ensure not only the comfort during the trip but the safety of the people as well. For those who don’t have sailing experience yet but would want to indulge into sailing vacations, it is ideal to take sailing lessons. 

Through various sailing lessons, you will have an idea what it is to be a sailor and how to live like one in a specific duration of time. In fact, taking sailing lessons would serve as a motivation and inspiration because it keeps your spirits high to stick with the sailing vacation. Also, through the lessons, you can decide as early as possible if you are fit enough for the challenges and series of adventure ahead. 

Aside from equipping yourself for the sailing vacation through sailing lessons, another major consideration before finally getting into a sailing vacation is choosing the destination. This is a very important part of the planning stage in sailing vacations because this is one of the major determinants of a good and enjoyable trip. 

In choosing a destination for sailing vacations, the major consideration is the interest of the person or people who would go sailing. If you are the type who is mesmerized by the beauty of the Caribbean, then plot a route that would let you discover the that wonderful islets in the tropical area.

If you are more into history and magnificent sights of the past, tour the Mediterranean. If you would want to maximize your "beach" life, then tour the coast of Hawaii and go island hopping. There are literally hundreds to choose from when it comes to destination, just make sure that you go to a place or places that you would love and enjoy. 

Sailing Vacation on a Yacht

An ocean cruise regardless of the destination is great for those that want to relax and unwind. But if you don’t like mixing in with the crowd, perhaps you should settle for something more private like a sailing yacht vacation. 

A sailing yacht vacation is ideal because you are able to personalize it. You can choose to rent one on your own if you know how to sail but for those who don’t know anything about sailing, you can get a package that already has a skipper and even a cook for the entire trip. 

The nice thing about having a crew on board is that they are familiar with the territory so they can act as your tour guide, plan your itinerary, and prepare your food. You should know that having some extra hands on board will cost you extra but it is worth it. 

Unlike riding in a big ship, you can charter the whole yacht so you are the only passengers throughout the entire voyage. There are three types to choose from namely the power yachts, the sailing yachts and the multihull yachts. 

You can charter a sailing vacation just about anywhere since there are a lot of companies that offer their services. Most of these are available in tropical destinations. You can try some at the British Virgin Islands, in Florida, Caribbean Islands, the South Pacific, the Med and in Asia. 

The two things that will dictate the price of a sailing vacation is the size of boat you will be chartering and the season. If you decide to get a boat that is good for 4 to 6 passengers and during the lean season, get ready to pay $200 a day. During the peak season, this figure could double. 

Since you will be here for a few days, part of the package already includes insurance deposit, gas, water, meals, outboard motor, inventory, end cleaning, local taxes, ports, linen and towels. Drinks are not included so you have to bring your own. 

A sailing yacht vacation is great because it is more relaxed. You can wake up at anytime and take a dip in the ocean before moving on to your next destination. If you don’t feel like going anywhere, stay right where you are. 

But before you charter a yacht, do some research first about the companies that offer this and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You will surely find some through the web or in major sailing magazines. You can also ask friends who have gone on sailing yacht vacations in the past to find out if the service was excellent.  

After getting the information you need, compare their prices and see what is inclusive in the packages so you know which one is good value for your money.

If you enjoyed your sailing yacht vacation, this won’t be your last as there will surely be more in the future. You have to remember that before air travel or cars were invented, this was the only means of traveling and these days, more people are getting into it. 

So what are you waiting for? Seize the opportunity to see the world by sea because it is only a matter of time before you will able to find the right sailing yacht vacation package that fits your budget  

Great Sicily Sailing Vacations 

In this time and age, people are always on the look out for a chance to play hard after working hard. In fact, people that spend most of their time working always have vacation time in mind to break away from the toxicities of modern and busy city life. And when it comes to vacation destinations above the water, it is almost synonymous to an island treat like Sicily sailing vacations. 

If you opt for Sicily sailing vacations, it is best to opt for a crewed boat to have more time relishing and admiring the beauty of the surroundings. Although a bareboat will give you a sense of adventure, this is not advisable for first time sailors because they might miss out important details of the trip when they have to attend to something. Since you are the only one and you don’t have any crewmember or captain to help you out, you will be obliged to fend for yourself. By doing this, you will have little time to enjoy the beauty that unfold before your very eyes. 

During Sicily sailing vacations, it is quite ideal to board on a crewed boat—an extraordinary and unique means of discovering Sicily—to ensure safety and success of the trip. Here, the amazing waters of the Sicilian sea would impress you. The variety of beaches as well as the magnificent lava rocks and creations that come in black, white, and gold sand is truly a sight not to be missed. 

Aboard the boat during Sicily sailing vacations, you will also get a good view of the magnificent sunset fore grounded by breathtaking landscapes such as mountains. 

The basic route for Sicily sailing vacations includes the Alcantara Gorges, the Taormina, the Catania, the Mt. Etna, and the Syracuse. The route also includes a visit to various villages as well as to various islets within the area. Usually, Sicily sailing vacations are designed for comfort in getting the best trip in the area. 

When it comes to accommodation, the Turkish caique is available. It comes in double or twin cabins and you should at least be flexible enough to share space on board if needed. When it comes to food, local Sicilian dishes re being served to complement the ultimate Sicilian experience. However, you can also choose other cuisines that are offered aboard.

When it comes to transportation, these are provided and come in good condition. All throughout the Sicilian sailing vacations, the English-speaking tour guides will be present during excursions to answer your inquiries about the place's history or any of the Sicilian culture. 

Usually, the ideal length of Sicily sailing vacations range from 8 days and 7 nights including land travels. When coming in small groups, the ideal number of persons ranges from 6 to 10 participants only. Since Sicily sailing vacations include flights fees, it is recommended that travelers come a day before the exact date of the trip to ensure that everything will be properly taken care of before everybody gets aboard. 

To ensure great Sicily sailing vacations, make sure that you have an idea what to expect from the place. You can get information from the Internet by browsing various websites that offer free information on Sicily. Once you have an initial idea what to expect, you can now pack your things that will be needed for the trip.

Make sure that you used strong duffel bags compared to bulky suitcases to ensure your comfort. In terms of things to be packed, opt for a minimal amount of clothing and toiletries since some of them are available on board. Also, check your travel documents before leaving.  

Turkey Sailing Vacations

Turkey is a country is rich in culture. On one end, you have the ruins of ancient civilizations while on the other, you have modern marinas that make it an ideal venue to start your Turkey sailing vacation. 

Charter boats in Turkey depart from Bodrum, Marmaris, Gocek. This will allow you to Antalya, Fethiye, Gocek, Dalyan, and Kusadasi all the way up to the Greek islands and back.  

When you shop for the right boat, you will notice that there are three types to choose from. These are namely crewed sailing yacht, the gulet and the bareboat. 

The crewed charter comes with a permanent crew so you don’t have to worry about anything. They will not only take control of the ship or cook food but they can teach you a thing or two about sailing so you can do this on your own some day and act as your tour guide through the voyage. These vessels may measure form 46 to 75 feet in length that can accommodate up to 8 guests. 

The Gulet was once a fishing vessel but now, many of them are built for charter holidays. They are very spacious inside and out so you can eat comfortably or sunbathe. 

The foredeck is normally covered cushions and the side decks are spacious enough for people both young and old. They are much bigger than the crewed chartered yachts as they measure from 50 to 100 feet which allows it to hold 16 guests in double and triple cabins. Each cabin in the Gulet has its own separate shower and toilet facilities. 

The vessel runs on engine power but if the winds are strong the sails are set so the Mediterranean breeze will show the way. 

The bareboat yacht is a little different from the other two because they are smaller and it doesn’t need to be run by a professional crew. The only requirement is that one of you hold’s a skipper’s license or certificate from a sailing organization that states your experience in seamanship & offshore navigation.

The best part about the bareboat is that it is up to you how long your charter will be unlike the rest that have a standard package. You can drop anchor anywhere you want since you are the one that sets the itinerary so there is no pressure.

You can find charter companies for your Turkey sailing vacation in magazines and online. Some of these sites have pictures of the vessel so you have an idea how it looks like before you confirm your trip. 

If you are not sure yet that you want to confirm with this charter company, just fill up their form so you are able to get a quote and then use this together with the rest to make a comparison on which one is the best. 

The best time for a sailing vacation in Turkey is either early or ate in the season that is between April to mid-July and from mid-September to end October when the skies are generally clear. You can also plan your trip during May and June but keep in mind that the weather here is going to be very hot. Winds are generally between 15 to 20 knots that happen to be lower than Greece. 

Tuscany Sailing Vacation

These days, more charter companies have opened up making it easy for people to see various destinations by sea. If you are planning to go to Europe, why don’t you see what a Tuscany sailing vacation has to offer?

A Tuscany sailing vacation will take you to 7 different islands that will let you see ancient ports, beautiful coastlines and vast scenery.  The Mediterranean waters are rich in marine life happen to be one of the biggest in Europe. 

The largest island is the Tuscan archipelago is Elba which at one time was the site where Napoleon was exiled. Next to this is the island of Gilio that has both fine sand and pebbled beaches for those who want to set foot on dry land. 

One of the things you should not forget to visit is the island of Monte Cristo. You better get their as fast as you can because there is a limit to 100 people that can be here on any given day. 

If you have scheduled a guide tour, you will be able to visit Gorgona. For those who don’t mind walking 200 steep steps, you will be rewarded by the breathtaking beach of Cala Palombaia as well as the magnificent sea-grotto with deep blue stones called “sassi turchini.”

Your next stop will be Portoazzuro on Elba Island that has beautiful crystal clear waters matched with picturesque bays, islets and coves. Next, you will cruise onto the magnificent sandy beaches of Portoferrio and Fetovaia, Calanova, Biodola and Costa del Sole. 

You will enjoy a day excursion to Marciana Marina, an old colorful village with a vibrant nightlife giving you time to drink and party with the locals. 

For those who want to go scuba diving, you can do so by sailing to Capraia Island near Portoferrio. Afterwards, you can head down over to Saint Florent, an extremely attractive small town with its beautiful ancient citadel.

Other places you will get to see on your Tuscany sailing vacation includes the port of Marina di Carrara where visitors will enjoy the magnificent views of Corniglia, Manarolia and picturesque Riomaggiore before heading further up the idyllic coast to Vernazza. 

You will once again walk on land and be able to explore the historic township and local traditions and culture of Portovenere.

There are different charter companies to choose from should you decide to go on a Tuscany sailing vacation.  You can choose to use bareboat yacht charters, yacht rentals, skippered, catamarans, sail boat charters and luxury super yacht charters.

When you book with any of them, this already includes the insurance deposit, gas, water, meals, outboard motor, inventory, end cleaning, local taxes, ports, linen and towels. Refreshments are not included in the package so you have to bring your own. 

More information that will help you decide which one you should select can be found in magazines and the internet. By looking for these online, you will already be able to book your trip instead of having this done through your travel agent. 

But before you do anything, find out how much it costs, how long will the voyage last and what else is inclusive in their package.   After all, you want your Tuscany sailing vacation to be perfect even before you come aboard the boat. 

What is Inclusive in a Sailing Vacation

Instead of flying off to a distant land for a much needed vacation, why don’t you spend almost the same amount on a sea sailing vacation. There are lots of destinations and before you select one, it is good to know what is inclusive in the package. 

Despite its price tag, a lot of vacationers have said that an all inclusive sailing vacation saves you money because you don’t’ have to shell out any more money for food when you have already paid for this when you book the trip. All you have to do is check out the cuisines being offered and then dig in. 

Naturally, you will already get a room throughout your stay so you can rest that as some say is similar to what a five star luxury hotel can offer. 

So guests don’t get bored while they are onboard, you also get to watch live entertainment, engage in activities planned by the ship’s crew and the use of their facilities like the gym or pool with no extra charge. 

But there are a few things that are not included in the package. These include the tips, the spa services, equipment rentals  and the cost of shore excursions. All in all, you will probably spend $1,000 to $1,500 which does not yet include the cash you will spend buying souvenirs and eating when your ship is docked in port.  

We mentioned earlier that food for the entire trip was free. Surprisingly, this does not cover the drinks that you will be consuming. So, passengers are advised to bring in a few refreshments of their own. Keep in mind though that there is usually a corkage fee for those who have hard liquor while in some sailing companies, this is not allowed. 

The other option is to buy a prepaid card that allows you to order as much as you want at a flat fee. It is usually $30 for kids and $45 for adults. 

Another thing that comes with some sailing vacation packages are airport transfers and airfare.  With that, you won’t have to worry anymore about how to get to the port especially when you have never been to this place before. 

One question that a lot of people forget to ask before booking on a trip is if there is a cancellation policy inclusive in the sailing vacation in the event that the trip does not push through. The weather could postpone it indefinitely so you should know if you are able to get a full refund, given a voucher for another vacation or compensated in some other way. 

A lot of sailing vacation companies posts what is inclusive in their packages by posting this in their website or in their brochure. If you don’t have the time to look through them, call your travel agent so he or she can do the research and present to you the options that fall within your budget. 

Once you know what is inclusive in a sailing vacation, it will already be easy for you to decide where you want to go. You just have to pack your bags and make it to the airport or the port of departure hours before they leave so you won’t feel you are in a rush when you are supposed to take it easy and just relax. 

What a Inclusive Sailing Vacation Package Should Include

Tourism is good. Because of stiff competition, airlines, cruise ships and hotels are creating all-inclusive sailing vacation packages that are very affordable. You can even bring the whole family to the cruise. That is how easy on the budget some packages are.  

However, there are some deals, especially in the Internet that are not. They may appear very affordable at the onset but when already purchased, you will soon find out that it is not what it is supposed to be. Some of these supposedly all inclusive packages for sailing have hidden and extra charges that you may not be able to afford especially if you are paying for a lot of people. You see, these hidden charges are often charged per person and not per package. 

Here are some of the things that you should do and the things that you should look into when purchasing an all-inclusive sailing vacation package. 

1. Check the inclusions

All inclusive packages may be advertised as already complete packages but most of them are not. When they say that it includes food, clarify if the meals included are for the whole day— breakfast, lunch and dinner. Often, hotels will just offer a breakfast for you. Some cruise ships may offer their food for free onboard while others have additional charges.

City tours will also have additional charges except if it is already included in the package. Make sure that you consider all these when buying the package. 

2. Ask questions

When purchasing a package, do not just rely on the advertisement that you see in the newspapers, on TV or online. These ads are shorter version of the real thing and most of the time they will not include the details that will not sell the product. That is why, it is important to give the company a call and to ask as many questions as possible. Clarify the packages, including the inclusions and the exclusions. Sellers will be forthright with that if you ask the question but otherwise, they will not tell you. 

3. Ask the name

After asking questions, make sure that you ask for the name of the person you were talking to. This will be your insurance when you encounter some problems with the package. That way, the person you are talking with will also be aware that whatever he or she says can be directly traced back to him or her.

4. watch out for taxes

Most packages will be priced without the taxes on it. When you are computing for your budget for the all inclusive sailing vacation package, include the taxes that you may incur. This is especially true if there are many of you in the group because the charges will be per person and not per package. Hotels, restaurants, cruise ships and airlines will have different taxes and additional charges so ask about it. It is better to be prepared. 

5. Know what season

Really good all inclusive sailing vacation packages are often created for the off peak season when few people actually go. If you only have a target date when all of you can go, make sure that the duration of the offer will include the date that you are targeting. Otherwise, purchasing it will just be a waste of good money. 

What to Bring When on a Sailing Vacation in Italy

Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world. Because of its old-world charm, its arts, culture and architecture, Italy is the destination to go when you want to go off to a romantic sailing vacation with someone you love. There are many sights to see and things to do in this little country in Europe and you will definitely enjoy it… that is as long as you prepare well. 

Sailing vacations can be the most romantic thing in the world but it can also be the most unromantic when you don’t prepare for it well. Accidents can happen in cruise ships and unexpected illnesses may occur. That is why it is important that when you pack, you include items that will make your sailing vacation comfortable and stress-free. Here are some tips that will help you make your sailing vacation to Italy an affair to remember. 

1. Medicines

Nothing is more unromantic than having your head on the sideboard, spilling your guts out. Yuck! If it is your first time to travel and you still don’t know what you will feel aboard the ship when it starts to sail, it is best that you bring some medicines with you. 

In fact to be on the safe side, you should bring other medicines with you in addition to the one for seasickness. Bring paracetamol for headaches, cold and flu medicines if you are going on a cold season, tablets for diarrhea and other medicines that you think will help you. Besides, these are all small items and will not be much of a bulk to your luggage. 

Be careful though and put it on your check in bag and not in your hand carry. This is because airlines are very particular with these items especially with liquid medications. 

2. pack a coat

You’ll never really know what the weather will be especially now with global warming upon us. So to make sure that you will not be distracted by any other problems, make sure that you have a coat or a jacket with you. Of course, if you are with a special someone, there is no need to. After all, you can always borrow his or her body warmth. 

3. Extra Plastic bags

Even with medicines, your seasickness may get too much for you. It is good to have some plastic bags where you can barf anywhere you may be. You may not need it but at least you have it. Besides, these plastic bags may also be a help when it comes to packing. So, how can you go wrong with bringing them? 

4. Sun block and a hat

Sun block is not only worn during the summer days. It is important any time of the day, any season of the year, whether it is raining or the sun is shining. To prevent sun burn and skin aging, make sure that you have a sun block with you when going on a trip. A hat is also another essential. It will not only protect your face from the harsh rays of the sun, it will also make you look fashionably chic! 

5. Extra batteries, charger and memory stick

What is a trip without the photos to make you remember. Don’t take chances and pack with you extra batteries for your camera, extra memory sticks and a charger. That way, you can be sure that you have recorded your trip sailing vacation in Italy completely.