Chartering in the Grenadines
The best way to enjoy the Grenadines is aboard a sailboat and chartering makes that possible. There are many ways to find out about sailing in the Grenadines. If you're wondering why you should sail here, read this article recently published in SAIL magazine. For the article, click
here.
TYPE and SIZE You need to determine the type and size of your boat. Do you want the feeling of taking your home with you aboard a catamaran, or would you like the experience of feeling the sea and wind as they interact with a monohull? Our personal preference is a monohull because we prefer the adventure of feeling like sailors of old. If we wanted all the comforts of home, we would stay home. How large a boat do you need? The skills and strength needed for sailing safely increase dramatically as your boat gets larger. Consider how many people you will have. That helps you decide how many cabins you need. Our experience is that between 38' and 45' we get a boat that is large enough for "personal space" but small enough to be manageable for a crew as small as two people. COMPANY or PRIVATE There are quite a few reputable companies that serve St. Vincent and the Grenadines. For convenience, we suggest that you consider a company that has its base on St. Vincent. This is the largest island, is the easiest to reach by air, and has the most complete shoreside services. All of the reputable companies can reach you quickly if you have trouble anywhere in the cruising area. Consider a private charter directly from the owner. Generally, you can save money. Also, a private yacht is used at times by the owner who has a personal interest in the maintenance and appearance of the boat. BAREBOAT or CREWED Your next decision may well be determined for you by your experience. If you are a sailor and have sufficient experience to handle a boat of the size you want to choose, be your own captain and go bareboat. You be required to fill out a resume of your experience, and when you arrive at your charter base, you will probably be asked to take the boat for a short checkout sail with a qualified captain. After that, you're on your own. Remember, the folks from whom you are chartering have the right to require you to take a captain if your skills are in doubt. Of course, you can select a crewed charter right from the outset. Decide whether you want a captain who will be responsible for the safe operation of the boat or whether you want to have a captain and an additional crew member to do the cooking. In either case, you will be giving up cabin space and you will have an extra daily charge in addition to providing food.
|
