What is Inclusive in a Sailing Vacation
July 24, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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 to Bring When on a Sailing Vacation in Italy
July 24, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.
Tuscany Sailing Vacation
July 24, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.
Turkey Sailing Vacations
July 23, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.
Great Sicily Sailing Vacations
July 23, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.
Sailing Vacation on a Yacht
July 23, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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
Enjoyable Sailing Vacations
July 23, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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 Vacations in the United States
July 22, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.
Unveiling the Wonders of a Sailing Vacation
July 22, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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 Vacation in the Caribbean
July 22, 2010 | Leave a Comment
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.