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Yacht charter blog posts for 2025 brought to you by Paradise Connections, your yacht charter & sailing vacation specialists. Either click a link in the list below to go to a blog post that interests you or just scroll down the page to view all the posts. The most current post is at the top.

— 2025 —

2/13/2025 - Sail Belize with Catamaran Dreaming On

2/1/2025 - New Entry Requirements for UK & Europe

1/245/2025 - Catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful

1/24/2025 - Catamaran Aquanimity: Our Favorite Kind of Morning

1/12/2025 - Meet Catamaran Aquanimity & Special offer

1/11/2025 - Local Produce on VI Yacht Charters

1/4/2025 - USVI Sunscreen Law

1/1/2025 - Happy New Year

Sail Belize with Catamaran Dreaming On

ATTENTION: Catamaran Dreaming On has reopened their calendar from 15 March to 30 April, 2025. Take advantage of this date window as Geoff & Iza plan to retire soon.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On
Catamaran Dreaming On

About the catamaran

Dreaming On is a 47-foot Leopard catamaran with an owner-operator crew of two, Geoff & Iza. This catamaran is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to six guests in 3 Queen cabins, each with private ensuite heads having sink/vanity, shower, and electric-flush toilet.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On - Kayaks  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On - Floating Lounge

They have a 13-foot center-console dinghy with 30HP motor, tube, scurfer, 2 kayaks, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), 2 beanbag chairs, snorkel gear, fishing equipment, inflatable floating island, double hammock, underwater camera, beach games, weights, yoga mat, wifi for emails, hair dryers, etc.

Meals Aboard Dreaming On

5-star menus are planned to suit your preferences. Gluten free? Vegetarian? Vegan? Not a problem! Child-friendly menus available, too. Before you travel to Belize for your charter, you will be sent a preference form so you can let them know of any special dietary requirements.

About the crew

Geoff & Iza, owner-operators of Dreaming On, look forward to the opportunity to show you the magnificent waters of Belize and pamper you with a memorable sailing vacation. They are an outgoing British couple, who love the outdoors, the sea, the cruising life, and meeting new friends. They have been sailing for most of their lives and Dreaming On has been their partner for the last 30,000 miles.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On
Geoff & Iza

While Iza loves the challenge of creating wonderfully presented, mouth-watering menus, she will also be found in the water, whenever the opportunity arises. Geoff loves sharing the exploration opportunities that the waters of Belize offer. There is always a new cay or new reef to discover.

Geoff and Iza operated Dreaming On for luxury crewed charters in the BVI for 5 years, then moved on to Belize for a change of scene. They fell in love with the islands of southern Belize – the phenomenal colors, the uncongested waters, and the chance to anchor at a different island every night and having the island to themselves.

Enjoy a Belize catamaran charter

Geoff and Iza would like to tell you a bit about chartering Dreaming On in Belize. Take it away...

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On
Sunset at Funk Caye

Dreaming On is based at Roberts Grove Marina, just 10 minutes from Placencia's airport, and our offshore base is Funk Caye, 16 miles offshore in the fantastic turquoise blue waters close to the 165 mile-long barrier reef. (The world's second longest).

Our cruising area in the southern cays is magical. Very few other boats around, many cays to choose from and a guaranteed caye to ourselves every night. Snorkeling is phenomenal. Thousands of patch reefs in protected water inside the main barrier reef, and again, wherever we snorkel, we will be the only boat around and our guests, the only people in the water.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On - Stand-up paddle boarding  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Dreaming On - King Lewey Caye

We have hundreds of wonderful opportunities for kayak exploration around the cays and over crystal clear reefs. Same for stand-up paddle boarding. Imagine standing on a paddle board over a natural aquarium. Southern Belize has it all.

The offshore cays of Belize are mostly uninhabited, except for a possible seasonal fishing shack. However, there is a choice of interesting beach bars and eateries available in the cays as an occasional change from life on board Dreaming On.

We usually spend our nights at uninhabited cays, well away from the mainland, and with no other boats around and no artificial light contamination, the amazing night sky is yours to behold. Our (amateur) on-board stargazer is here to help you identify constellations and planets.

Now is the time to experience this wonderful country.

Thanks, guys!

Learn more

It'd make a great Valentine's present

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Posted: February 13, 2025

New requirements to travel to Europe & the UK

Soon, many international travelers will need to register for an online authorization before touching down in the UK and many EU nations.

Know Before You Go

United Kingdom

Beginning January 8, 2025, visitors from the United States, Canada, Australia and other non-European nations who currently do not need a visa for short stays in the UK, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the country, including those just passing through UK airports. It costs £10 to apply. Everyone travelling needs to get an ETA, including babies and children.

The ETA is similar to the U.S. ESTA system and acts as a pre-clearance for travel. This change is part of the UK’s move towards a digital border system.

Beginning April 2, 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. Citizens of the UK, Ireland, and those with valid UK visas will be exempt.

European Union

– ETIAS

Expected in 2025, the EU will require a new travel authorization for visa-exempt foreigners from 60 nations (including the UK, US, Canada and Australia) before they are allowed to enter 30 EU nations. Similar to the United Kingdom's ETA, this new program, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), requires short-term travelers to apply online, pay a small fee of 7 euros, and wait up to 96 hours for applications to be approved. According to the ETIAS website as of February 1, 2025: "ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications are collected at this point. It is due to start 6 months after EES."

– EES

The EU is set to launch a separate digital monitoring initiative called the Entry/Exit System (EES), which uses face and fingerprint scans instead of passports to identify non-EU nationals. According to the EES website, as of February 1, 2025: Entry/Exit system is currently not in operation. It is due to start in 2025. There is also an EES Frequently Asked Questions page.

The goal of the EES is to modernize border crossings and speed up long immigration lines. The new entry system is also aimed at combatting identity fraud and the number of people overstaying in the EU.

Learn more

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Posted: February 1, 2025

Catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful

Yacht charter blog - catamaran catatonic
Catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful

Meet the Yacht

Some Kind of Wonderful is a 72-foot, Fountaine Pajot catamaran with two crew. She accommodates up to eight guests in 4 cabins: 1 King, 2 Queens, and 1 Twin which can be converted into a king upon request. Each guest cabin has independent air conditioning, and private ensuite head including sink/vanity, shower stall and electric-flush toilet. The master cabin, aft in the port hull, includes a seating/lounge area, a television, a desk/dressing table, king size bed, and the ensuite bathroom has an oversized shower stall and double sinks. The salon is open and airy with large windows that ensure beautiful 360-degree scenery.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - guest cabin  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - Salon
Guest cabin & Salon

The salon features an inviting sofa for lounging or watching movies on the large cinema screen. The open galley has seemingly endless counterspace and is equipped with new state-of-the-art appliances, fine porcelain tableware, and elegant glassware.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - Flybridge  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - aft cockpit
Flybridge & Aft deck

There are many areas outside for socializing, lounging, and enjoying the sailing. The highlight of the yacht is the exceptionally large flybridge. There is ample space for the captain at the helm, with nearby seating to allow guests who want to be a part of the sailing experience to stay close to the action. The flybridge boasts an oversized c-shaped sofa, 2 cocktail tables, 2 bench seats, 2 lounge/day beds, and versatile awning. The substantial aft deck is shaded by the flybridge overhead and provides 2 additional bench seats, 2 lounge/daybeds, as well as an elegant setting for formal dining. The foredeck with 2 additional lounge/daybeds, 2 bow pulpit seats, and 2 trampolines is a wonderful place for lounging, spotting turtles or dolphins, and immersing in the incredible views while underway.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - Toys  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful - Forward deck
Toys & Foredeck

Amenities and water toys include a 14-foot center console dinghy, tubes, wakeboard, kneeboard, waterskis, kayak, 2 standup paddleboards (SUPs), subwing, snorkel gear, large float, TV/stereo in salon, USB ports, underwater camera, onboard wifi with internet where available, BBQ, etc.

Meet the Crew

Yacht charter blog - catamaran catatonic
Captain Lukata & Chef Benita

Both Captain Lukata and Chef Benita are from St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Together, they offer an array of experiences, from farm tours and historic hikes to intimate encounters with local musicians and artists. They also create unforgettable adventures on the water, giving guests lasting souvenirs of their time in the islands. With their authentic Caribbean essence, Benita and Lukata invite guests to dive deep into island culture, food, fun, and the true essence of “island life.” This team was awarded “Runners Up” in the Best Crew In Show at the November 2024 VIPCA Charter Yacht Show in St. Thomas.

Captain Lukata

Lukata Samuel is a 100-ton Master Captain, born and raised in the beautiful Virgin Islands. With a deep-rooted knowledge of the Virgin Islands and surrounding areas, his love for the sea began at just 8 years old at the St. Thomas Yacht Club, where he first discovered his passion for sailing. In addition to sailing, Lukata is a well-known local runner and triathlete, having competed in multiple triathlons across the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

One of his most rewarding accomplishments has been teaching students how to sail. Over the years, Lukata has mentored many budding sailors. Three of his former students have gone off to make significant strides in the world of sailing and yachting. Seeing their success reaffirms the impact of his guidance and expertise.

When it comes to travel, Lukata's favorite destination is Brazil. The vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality left a lasting impression on him. It was there that he not only learned to kite surf but also celebrated a life-changing moment -- getting engaged to the love of his live, Benita. Brazil holds a special place in his heart, a testament to its beauty and the remarkable memories they made there together.

Lukata’s greatest joy comes from helping his guests live their dream island experience. He endeavors to provide a magical journey that stays with them long after they leave. Inspired by a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, "The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience," he invites you to embrace the island spirit.

Chef Benita

Benita Marshall's vibrant personality and creative spirit shine both in the galley and in her personal endeavors. With more than 1,000 nautical miles sailed in near-coastal waters, along with her USCG Master 100-ton captain license, Benita feels truly at one with the ocean, embracing wherever the waves lead her. Her family roots stretch across the Caribbean, from Cuba to Trinidad, making her a true "local island explorer" when it comes to food, culture, fun, and, of course, the sea.

Her heart for giving back was evident even in high school, when she started a non-profit organization that provided clothes, shoes, and food to the homeless. Every Friday, Benita would collect donations from her classmates and personally distribute them to local communities. What started as a simple act of kindness evolved into a well known non-profit that not only served those in need but also provided community service opportunities for her peers. The organization continues to operate today, touching lives and inspiring the next generation of givers.

Benita truly shines in the kitchen, where she transforms cooking into an art form. With many years in the culinary and restaurant industry, she is experienced in accommodating various diets and allergies, believing that food should always make you feel better. Alongside Lukata, Benita helps operate their family farms, incorporating a farm-to-table approach to dining, ensuring every dish is infused with freshness and love.

Her passion for giving and creativity perfectly complements her role as chef aboard Some Kind of Wonderful, ensuring every experience she creates is thoughtful and memorable.

Learn more

You're Some Kind of Wonderful,Too!
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Posted: January 25, 2025

Catamaran Aquanimity: Our Favorite Kind of Morning

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity
Catamaran Aquanimity

Catamaran Aquanimity shares their favorite kind of morning with us.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity - wake up

When you wake up on yacht Aquanimity, the Caribbean sunshine pours in and there’s blue views just outside your window. Then...

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity - cockpit

you head up to the main deck, to a breakfast table that's set and waiting for you, with unobstructed water views from every seat. Then...

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania breakfast  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania breakfast with mimosas

you're served a chef-prepared breakfast, complete with mimosas, which you enjoy with your beloved travel companions. Then...

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity - cockpit

you slip on your swimsuit and hop on a unicorn to float in the warm, Caribbean sea.

Yeah, that's our favorite kind of morning. ;)

Learn more

  • Online brochure: Click to view brochure
  • Standard rates: Click to view rates
  • SPECIAL OFFER: $2,000 off per week for new bookings for charters taking place in January and early February 2025. May be prorated for short charters. 4-night minimum.
  • CHILD DISCOUNT: $200 discount for each child under the age of 12 at time of charter. Valid for up to a maximum of 3 children.

Contact Paradise Connections for More Info

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Posted: January 24, 2025

Meet Catamaran Aquanimity & Special Offer, Too

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity
Catamaran Aquanimity

Aquanimity, a 48-foot Dufour catamaran of stylish design, is your perfect charter option – especially if you are looking for a budget-friendly price. In addition, they are offering a $2000 discount for January & February 2025 charters.

About the yacht

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania guest cabin  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania guest cabin
Guest cabins

Aquanimity is a 2021, 48-foot Dufour catamaran with a crew of two. This yacht is fully air conditioned and accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 Queen cabins. Each guest cabin has a private, ensuite head including sink/vanity, stall shower, and electric-flush toilet.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania salon  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania galley
Salon   |   Galley

Enjoy the abundance of interior and exterior space which is ideal for relaxing with privacy and socializing on board. Inside, the open-plan main salon & galley is light and airy. Outside, there is a large aft cockpit, the seating area on the foredeck, and the flybridge.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania aft cockpit  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania forward deck
  Aft cockpit     Forward lounge

Aquanimity has a 13-foot dinghy with 15HP motor, tube, standup paddleboard (SUP), snorkle gear, large floating mat, noodles, fishing equipment, kettle bells, USB ports, salon stereo, onboard wifi, etc.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania  Yacht charter blog - catamaran Aquamania

About the crew

Captain Gino grew up in South Africa. His family enjoyed camping in remote locations whenever they could, contributing to his great sense of adventure. Gino's father introduced him to sailing and he became involved in racing keelboats. He started as crew and worked his way up to skipper. Now Gino is captain of a crewed charter yacht.

Yacht charter blog - catamaran aquanimity crew
Chef Nikita & Captain Gino

Chef Nikita's father was responsible for her love of cooking. At an early age he taught her all the tips and tricks for cooking a delicious meal. They would have weekly cook-offs to see who could create the better dish. Nikita decided from the get-go that she would rather explore the world than spend her life in an office. After discovering sailing and life on the water, Nikita quickly enrolled in a course to become a stewardess and increase her culinary skills. This led her to working as a sole chef/stew in Cape Town on a superyacht. Her love of the sea and cooking fit together perfectly and she knew she chose the right career.

About the special offers

  • SPECIAL OFFER: $2,000 off per week for new bookings for charters taking place in January and early February 2025. May be prorated for short charters. 4-night minimum.
  • CHILD DISCOUNT: $200 discount for each child under the age of 12 at time of charter. Valid for up to a max of 3 children.

Learn more

Contact Paradise Connections for More Info

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Posted: January 12, 2025

Fresh & Local Produce on VI Yacht Charters

Crewed yacht charters seek to provide an immersive experience for the senses.

Yacht charter blog - tropical fruit stand - pixabay
Photo by Simon on Pixabay

Yacht charter guests love to learn about the local flora, fauna, and culture of the Virgin Islands. One way the yachts do this is to provide locally grown produce whenever possible.

While island hopping on your yacht charter, seeing local produce stands in town and plants growing in the wild on hikes is a fun and educational experience. Many items on offer are unusual back home and most guests have probably never tasted them.

Yacht charter blog - Starfruit cocktail garnish - pexels
Photo by 23 audiovisual on Pexels

Charter chefs seize any opportunity they can to incorporate local favors into their onboard cuisine. Whether it be local starfruit or passion fruit in a yacht's signature cocktail, or using VI pumpkin in a Caribbean-style soup, their guests get to experience the culture of the Virgin Islands at its most delicious.

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Posted: January 11, 2025

USVI Sunscreen Law

Yacht charter blog - USVI sunscreen law
Photo by Vecteezy.com

Please help preserve the glorious beaches and stunning underwater world that lure you to the shores of the US Virgin Islands so that you and your loved ones can enjoy them for years to come! Avoid sunscreens that contain the “Toxic 3 Os” of oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene – they are prohibited in the United States Virgin Islands.

Wear rashguards, hats, and use only non-nano mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide – the only sunscreen ingredients deemed safe and effective by the FDA. Always read the ingredient label to avoid sunscreen containing oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene. There are many options to choose from.

For a selection of recommended non-nano mineral-based sunscreen lines, please CLICK HERE.

Read about how oxybenzone affects coral HERE.

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Posted: January 4, 2025

Happy New Year Everyone

Happy New Year 2023
Image by Kiki hadi S,Vecteezy

Wishing every day of your new year to be filled with good health, success, prosperity, and joy.

Posted: January 11, 2025

 


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