Researching a charter..Tradewinds anyone?

[DAVA390]

The admiral and I had some friends aboard for 4th july fireworks run. Their first time sailing,they loved it. We are discussing a charter boat and they are starting the research. These are old friends we rafted the Grand Canyon with so we know a week aboard with them is fine. We are thinking of a crewed cat because their experience is none and mine is limited. They just sent me a video/brochure for Tradewinds. Thoughts on that company please.
PS Will I throw rocks at my boat when I get home?

 

[Pat]

We chartered with Trade Winds the last time we were in the BVI. We were on a Bavaria which was a grand boat overall. Trade Winds was excellent but I do still believe that when you are going thru the boat check out, you should check out the charter company as well as they check you out.....look at everything on the boat, and if you don't like what you see do not hesitate to question them. We had no trouble with Trade Winds, but we have had with a couple companies that thankfully are no longer in business. For instance we asked Trade Winds to have ice, and refreshments on the boat when we arrived for the first night and it made for a great first evening...Have a great time! Patrick

 

[DAVA390]

Thanks for the reply Pat. Good to know.
I`m kind of surprised, I thought this question would open a floodgate of opinions...

 

[Gunni]

Do you want to share a charter with 1 or 2 other charter couples (other than your friends)? They will want to fill their boat, or have you pay for the space. Ask. Crewed charters can be huge fun...but not when you have the wrong people.

 

[DAVA390]

Thanks Gunni, we are thinking abut that.we have 1 or maybe 2 couples we are going to approach about joining us. Right now, this so early in our planning that by the time we are done, we might have to have ramps for our wheelchairs and walkers...
Gives us more time to save up though.
On a serious note, friends are thinking Belize, but based on what I`ve read here over he years I`m leaning to VBI Tortolla. So, lots of stuff to settle up.I see.

 

[Gunni]

There is little risk here if you fill the boat with people you like hanging out with. You have a skipper with local knowledge and someone who's job it is to feed the crew, and provision your favorites. Everyone gets a stateroom with a head, and personal space. Very low drama factor, more fun. Start with the BVI, everyday is another island. I did these charters bareboat and the cats were very popular.