Yacht TBC

If you are quite interested about a sailing vacation, you should choose chartering in Greece. This is an amazing country with thousands of islands, incredible history and beautiful anchorages. If you are planning a sailing vacation and love the natural beauty, western history then you should consider about a yacht charter Greece. A vacation with countless islands and amazing crystal clear water is quite interesting.

Greece Yacht Charter and sailing holidays: An Overview

The mountainous country Greece is comprised of a peninsula in the southern Balkans that projects into the Ionian Seas of the Mediterranean. Yacht charter Greece offers huge opportunities to explore deserted beaches, gorgeous sceneries, and the local food of the region. You will like visiting all the islands that come in your way.

This area is an overcrowded place during the months of summer. You will find the beaches full with tourists coming from different corners of the world. Because of these crowds you might not enjoy as much as you think. So hiring a private yacht charter you can go to beach sections which are so popular and not as crowded.

The country Greece is one of the most visited tourist destinations of the world. The country had a major contribution defining terms like art, philosophy, politics and sports.
What are the benefits of a yacht charter holiday?

By choosing to sail you will be avoiding schedule, crowds. The most important thing is that you can be able to plan your trip the way you want it. Apart from this, you will have true Greek experience. Sailing your boat from island to island would be definitively a wonderful experience for you.

The almighty god has blessed Greece with wonderful weather from April to October. The days are long and warm. So if you are planning a yachting holiday during this time, then you are going in the right way.

For more information about the yngyachting offers in the Mediterranean, visit http://yngyachting.com. We also provide offers for Gulet Cruises Croatia and many more destinations across the globe.

A yacht charter is a perfect way to see the Greek islands. Taking a yacht charter Greece and visiting the islands provides memorable experience. While you are sailing these waters you will be glad to see many sites that cannot be viewed from land. All the Greek islands vary in sizes. Some of them are very popular among the tourists while others are not even visited. The Cyclades islands are the most visited islands of Greece. It includes Folegandros, Milos, Mykonos, Santorini, Paros and Tinos. They are excellent for sailing.

Ready for Diversion?

The Oxford English dictionary defines the word diversion as follows;
noun 1 an instance of diverting. 2 Brit. an alternative route for use when the usual road is closed. 3 something intended to distract attention. 4 a recreation or pastime.
M/Y Diversions name was chosen carefully and is suitably fitting to reflect an atmosphere and a way of life that makes this charter yacht the obvious choice for those who enjoy living life to the full.
Mediterranean Luxury Yacht Charter starts here with motor yacht Diversion. She is a high speed stylish 80ft Baia Open offering her charter guests the luxury of reaching their favourite hotspots in the South of France quickly, without compromising their comfort.

As an example, Antibes to St Tropez can be done in just under an hour leaving plenty of time for charter guests to enjoy the day at one of the world famous Pampelone Beach restaurants. Powered by two V16 2000 MTU engines, she can reach a top speed of 44 knots and cruises at 32 knots. Her distinct rooster tail is quite impressive as she glides at adrenaline pumping speed across the shimmering Mediterranean waters. As heads turn to see Diversion, charter guests are guaranteed and exhilarating arrival in style at Club 55 or Nikki Beach for a day of fun and extravagance.

Diversions sun deck has a large alfresco dining and bar area on the main deck, where the yachts three expert crew are always on hand to provide a 5 star luxury charter service. The mood can be formal or relaxed but the moments will always be pleasurable.

The large swim platform creates the perfect area to host the days water sports and three large sun cushions are always appreciated when soaking up the hot Mediterranean sun and dreaming the day away. Diversion is one of the few luxury Mediterranean charter yachts of this size offering a separate wakeboard boat on request (for an extra charge) as well as the use of a jet ski from her home port on the Cap dAntibes.

Below decks, guests can enjoy the cool and elegant salon with its state of the art entertainment system. New for 2008 – Diversion has undergone a partial upgrade of her interior this winter to add a fresh, neutral and sophisticated feel to the interior. This modern stylish yacht can comfortably sleep six charter guests in three luxuriously appointed en-suite cabins and is able to host larger groups for daytime entertainment.

Diversions captain Dean Homan (alias Dynamic Dean or Da Man) is a legend in himself and thrives on the whole St Tropez buzz taking on the challenge to organize top parties, sometimes at short notice, with a relentless determination to maintain the yachts reputation as one of the hippest luxury charter yachts on the French Riviera. With funky crew uniforms, featuring the latest fashion crazes like the skull and cross bones and a recently installed DJ deck system outdoors, this yacht attracts fun lovers and party goers looking to enjoy the best in luxury yacht charters. Diversion is one of the few charter yachts often spotted in the highly sought after berths in front of the Hotel Sube in the port of St Tropez ready for guests to jump ashore and carry on the night at the Cave des Rois.

Diversion is the first choice for those looking for a luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean and is also suitable for family charter as well as a good time yacht because she has it all!

Southern California is recognized worldwide as an excellent vacation spot with stunning beaches, breathtaking amusement parks, and unmatched cinema attractions — but boaters have unique needs and interests than the average landlubber. Those who enjoy the open water have a different perspective on things.

There are six different Marina del Rey yacht clubs, each with different amenities, options, and functions: The California Yacht Club, the Del Rey, The Marina Venice, Pacific Mariners, Santa Monica/Windjammers, and The South Coast Corinthian. To find the ideal club for you, start by assessing your interests and then looking for the Marina del Rey yacht clubs that caters to your interests.

Sporty Spirits

Several of Marina del Rey yacht clubs offer sports activities for those who like to get their blood flowing after a jaunt on the sea. If you enjoy paddle tennis and rowing, the California may be the right choice for you. If swimming, basketball, and table tennis are more your style, you’ll find facilities and other like-minded enthusiasts at the Del Rey.

Yacht Club Socialites

The boating community is known far and wide as a very outgoing social group and Marina del Rey yacht clubs are no exception. Boaters can enjoy social dinner parties with the Santa Monica/Windjammers, club meetings at the South Coast Corinthians, Monday night football with the Pacific Mariners, or an elegant cocktail in the private club at the California. For younger boaters, children’s programs are offered at both the Del Rey and California Clubs.

Boat Repair Do-It-Yourselfers

Some people get distinct pleasure and personal satisfaction from caring for their boat themselves. If you are a DIY boater, the Marina Venice Club and the Pacific Mariners Club are your best bet. For larger boats, the South Coast Corinthian has a one-ton hoist at their self-service facility with 24-hour access.

Boaters with Kids and Teens

Both the Del Rey and The California Yacht Club offer activities for juniors. Junior activities at CYC include rowing and sailing lessons while Del Rey offers full boating courses for juniors. Kids learn everything from water safety skills, to how to care for a boat, to earning a healthy respect for nature and the ocean. Daily activities include chalk talks, water drills, warm ups, and other activities that promote self-reliance, competence, and cooperation.

Sailing And Cruising Adventures

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of joining a yacht club is the opportunity to hit the seas with others that are just as obsessed with the water as you. All of the Marina del Rey yacht clubs organize social boating adventures — from sunset and dinner cruises, to dance cruises to snorkeling tours, fishing expeditions, and more.

What You’ll Need To Know About Marina del Rey Before Arriving

The Del Rey has over 300 slips, a hoist, and a Catalina Island facility. The Santa Monica/Windjammers offers a small boat hoist and 200 slips for your boating convenience.

With nearly 80 percent of the Earth covered in water, there are plenty of places to explore from the deck of a yacht. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, there are breathtaking places to visit around the circumference of our planet. Yachting in the Mediterranean dates back hundreds of years and many towns along this coastline have a rich history of piracy, explorers and riches. Today these areas combine a mix of natural beauty and history with the glamour of modern European luxury to offer a yachting destination that ranks far above all others. Many argue that it is the Mediterranean that is home to the worlds most uniquely spectacular ports of call that should not be missed by any keen yachtsman.

Monaco
Nothing can quite beat gently floating up down, cocktail in hand and the sun setting behind you as a Formula 1 car whizzes by on the picturesque landscape. Monaco is the place of the ultimate yachting fantasy – the luxury, wealth and opulence epitomising the break from the mundane that a holiday is supposed to be. Situated in the most famous section of the French Riviera, or the Cote dAzur, Monaco is well known for its glitz, glamour and celebrity appeal. But this area is also steeped in history and natural beauty.

Monaco is the ideal northern location to begin a yachting charter through the Italian Riviera, but with so much to do in this ancient medieval town an entire vacation can be spent without ever leaving the port. The principality is barely one square mile in total size with the ports mooring sites close to the shore. Being so small and compact, everything in Monaco is within walking distance, allowing you to come ashore and explore at your leisure. From the Princes Palace to the Oceanographic Museum and Botanical Gardens, culture and history abounds in this city and the casinos, tax-free boutiques and elegant restaurants offer an unforgettable nightlife.

Besides its glamorous people, fabulous nightlife and cultural attractions, the port of Monaco has one attraction that is unparalleled by any other yachting location. For two days in late May, the winding streets of Monaco come alive with the roar of engines and the cheers of the crowds. This 78 lap race is a highlight in the Formula 1 calendar and attracts spectators from around the world. The city of Monaco comes alive at this time of year, with parties and festivals accompanying the event. Formula 1 supercars fly through the very streets where you would walk in a truly unique sight. What makes this event even more unique is the opportunity to watch it from the deck of a luxury yacht. Drinks flow and the atmosphere is electric as a community of yachts moor in the port to watch the race, partying well into the night.

Portofino
Once a small sleepy fishing village, Portofino has now become a favourite port of call for yachtsmen and charters. This is a quintessential little Italian village that, despite being under French rule in the beginning of the 19th century, offers unique insight into Italian life. Originally named Portus Delphini after the abundance of dolphins that congregate in the bay, Portofino was a quiet and unknown fishing village until the 1950s. A triumph of word of mouth, a few people discovered its beauty and the news soon spread, turning the town into a playground for the rich and famous.

Situated in the bay within the Gulf of Tigullio, this port is filled with luxury yachts of every description. Each yacht is overlooked by tall pastel coloured buildings and cliffs that seemingly rise straight out of the sea and are decorated by trailing scarlet bougainvilleas. The sea itself is a rich sapphire colour and offers spectacular delights for both snorkelers and scuba divers. Red coral flourishes in these waters and a little further out, dolphins and whales relax in the surf.

On shore, the luxury of the yachts in the port is mimicked by the upmarket restaurants and shops. Louis Vuitton and Gucci are among the names you are most likely to see and quaint cafes and gelatarias line the harbour side piazza. Sitting back with a cocktail or an ice cream is a great way to spend an afternoon as the glamorous yachts sail by below. The cobble stone streets are ideal for exploration and the town is surrounded by silvery olive groves that add a pleasant aroma to the air. This naturally breathtaking environment includes a national park to the north, where you can follow the paths and trails through miles of beautiful Italian countryside.

St Tropez
The year was 1956 and Bridgette Bardot visited the tiny town of St Tropez to film a little movie called And God Created Woman. The rest, as they say, is history. In peak yachting season, from around April to October, the cobbled streets and patisseries are filled with celebrities and tourists and the port is lined with luxury yachts, literally lined up fender to fender.

Visiting this section of the Cote dAzur at this time guarantees a glitzy time of beautiful people, good food and unforgettable nights. But it is when you come in the off-season that the real St Tropez shines. With a little more breathing space, it is easier to explore this spectacular stretch of coastline, from the famous Pampelonne Bay in the east which offers over three miles of unspoilt white sand to the quirky back streets filled with delis, boutique shops and cafes.

The Citadel, an ancient fortress, takes pride of place in St Tropez and lovingly protects the colourful fishing houses below. Nothing quite beats sitting on the deck of your yacht, watching the evening lights flicker off the pastel yellows, pinks and oranges of the houses of St Tropez. While in this port, dont forget to buy a famous pair of Tropziennes sandals or to sample a slice of Tarte Tropzienne, the cream and sponge cake that the area is renowned for.

Seeing All Three in One Unforgettable Holiday
Being able to visit even one of these famous ports of call in a lifetime is a privilege, but with a luxury yacht charter, such as the ones offered by brokers like Yachting Partners International, you can see all three. Such a yacht charter company helps you to plan the ideal yachting itinerary that suits your exact needs and interests. Planning a yachting holiday in this way allows you to peruse all the best ports that the Mediterranean has to offer, stopping at each for however long you wish to. A yacht charter company will also organise everything else for you, from the crew to the paperwork, leaving you free to explore Monaco, St Tropez and Portofino at your leisure.

TRAWLER SIZE

Once you feel you have just the layout that will suit you, whats the right length? You need to know that the overall room in a 36 footer compared to a 40 footer is very different even with just a few feet added. The following is a basic guide.

30 – 35 foot: This is fine for day cruising and two people. One head and shower may make day-to-day living a chore. Overnight guests aboard may be difficult. Fine for inland and light offshore use. Consider this to be analogous to a pop-up camper.

36 – 39 foot: This size boat is easy enough for a couple to handle and suitable for light cruising and offshore use. Its large enough to cruise comfortably for 2 people and accommodate guests. Think of this as a condo.

40 – 44 foot: This boat length has the beam to insure stability and roominess. Think of this as a single family home. They have more than enough room to accommodate guests for extended period. This is probably the most popular length trawler found in the cruising community.

45 – Plus: These are your blue water long-range cruises. These vessels have luxurious accommodations but come with a handsome price tag. Think of this as a second home villa in the islands.

TRAWLER ACCOMMODATIONS

Now that we have covered the basics of trawlers and their designs, what is best for the actual living part? Trawlers generally come with 1-2 staterooms maybe three, 1-2 heads, salon, galley, and dinette. The salon is where we turn on the tube to catch the latest news and read the latest issue of Living Aboard. Like most trawlers handcrafted teakwood cabinetry is throughout with large windows.

Sundeck models have stairs leading to the aft sundeck. Most also have parquet teak floors, which looks nice with a nice oriental rug. Most trawlers have engine room access panels in the salon as well. Most salons of the 40-foot class will accommodate a couple of lean-back chairs or sofa, two small tables and an entertainment center. Placing a teak magazine rack close by and you have about all you need.

Staterooms are the private areas aboard. The sundeck model has an aft master stateroom that is very large and separated from the forward stateroom by the galley and salon.

Staterooms have a variety of storage lockers so make sure the boat you like has ample. Like everything, price is not always an indicator. Carpeting in the stateroom is a matter of choice. Many prefer to use rugs as not to hide the beauty of the teak flooring.

The galley is where you will spend a considerable amount of time. Most galleys, depending on the size of the boat will come equipped with range, propane or electric, microwave, and a refrigerator/freezer. Ample storage again should be evaluated. Galleys that are down have separation from guests in the salon.

The galley down has a dinette across from the cooking area with seating for 4. The dinette also converts to a berth for two. You can use the storage beneath the seating for seldom-used items used in the galley.

Most boats of the 40 foot and larger class are provided with two heads; a master and one available to the guest cabin and common areas.

Many master stateroom heads have a separate shower, toilet, and vanity. Having a separate shower is a must if guests are expected. Even so, its like two people getting showered and dressed in a phone booth. Older heads had hand-pump toilets but the newer electric flush or Vacuflush models are much better and easier to use. Some boats have one head to be shared by all on board so consider who may join you on your new boat.

ENGINES

Boats can be found with both single and twin engine configurations. There is no shortage of articles about the advantage of both. The primary advantages to twins are 1) easy maneuvering at close quarters, and 2) get home engine if one fails. The disadvantage is having to maintain two of everything. Fuel consumption is also doubled.

Single engines offer low fuel consumption but require more difficulty in operation at close quarters. There is usually no get-home engine so that may be an issue to some. An advantage in most boats is the ease of maintenance due to more room in the engine room.

TRAWLER MARKET

Ok, now we have gone through most of the differences between a variety of trawler styles and accommodations. So where can you find your perfect boat? I recommend a number of sources.

Find a good buyer’s broker. If I do not have the right one in inventory, I have access to hundreds of other boats in my multiple listings and can find you the best available at a price you wish to pay.

Check out Yachtworld.com to preview style and designs.

Go to every marina and boat show you can find. Commpliment any boater on their boat and they will gladly show you around.

Have fun shopping.

The author is a live aboard trawler owner and owner of Paradise Yachts, a full service Florida yacht brokerage.