Mainsheet - Fall 2009 (PDF Document - 2900K)

F A L L
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E d i t i o n
The New www.Moorings.com
We’re pleased to announce the recent
launch of The Moorings’ new and improved
website!
Under development over the past year, our
team has taken your questions and comments
into consideration to develop a comprehensive
website that boasts a host of unique, easy-tonavigate features that are designed to enhance
your next charter planning experience.
• Integration of The Moorings Bareboat,
Power and Crewed Yacht websites helps
you select a personalized charter option for
you and your crew.
• Fast, convenient online charter booking
through our industry-leading system that
offers extesive fleet details, easy order
provisioning and water sports options.
• Destination details to enhance your
vacation planning experience, including
Sample Itineraries, Interactive Maps,
Points of Interest, Cruising Conditions,
Travel Notes, Customer Reviews, Images
and Videos.
• Expanded My Moorings account capabilities
to record your quotation and booking
history, reviews and communication
preferences.
• F leet details for every yacht in The
Moorings’ f leet, including technical
specifications, interior and exterior
photos, virtual tours and cruising ground
availability.
• Special Offers with customized search
functionality enabling you to view the
highlights of each offer.
• Plus, much more!
Visit www.moorings.com today, and have
fun discovering all of the new features and
planning an unforgettable vacation in 2010!
If you would like to share your feedback,
please e-mail us at webmaster@moorings.
com. We look forward to your comments.
Visit Moorings.com now for
NEW Online Booking Rewards,
and a chance to win prizes
including a BVI Charter
with The Moorings
Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes!
See page 8 for more details!
visit us online
Waypoints
A New Tortola Treasure . .........................Page 2
BVI Event Calendar....................................Page 2
Moorings Charters
Inspire Young Cruiser...........................Page 3
Awe-inspiring Seascapes:
Exploring the Windwards.....................Page 4
National TV Debuts.....................................Page 4
The Family Islands:
Power Charter in the Abacos..............Page 5
Savoring the Emerald Isle:
Le Boat Ireland Canal Cruising...........Page 5
The Moorings Crewed Yacht....................Page 6
MedSail 2010...............................................Page 6
New Moorings Base in Belize..................Page 6
Yacht Ownership.........................................Page 7
Leopard Catamarans..................................Page 7
The Moorings Yacht Brokerage...............Page 7
Regatta News...............................................Page 8
Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes.....................Page 8
Escape the
Winter Chill
with up to
20% off
www.moorings.com
Charter Fleet Expands with New Yacht Models
The Moorings 54.5 interior
The 5-cabin, 4-head 54.5
monohull is complemented
by a large galley and
generous space for
gatherings both below
deck and in the
cockpit area.
Sail under the Caribbean sun this
winter and SAVE 15%* on charters
from our Caribbean bases including
Tortola, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Canouan,
Abacos, La Paz, and Belize. Just sail
any time between January 5, 2010
- February 13, 2010 and book by
December 18, 2009.
Captain’s Rewards Cardholders save
an additional 5% off.
*New bookings only, 6 day minimum, excludes
Moorings 4600 and 54.5. Deposit by December 11.
Call for details.
Largest Monohull Debuts in December!
A spacious and luxuriously outfitted yacht
with performance to match, the all new
Moorings 54.5 is the flagship of The Moorings
monohull fleet and largest in this fleet to date.
Built by Beneteau, this yacht delivers the
ultimate in reliability, performance and
comfort both under sail and docking. With
a powerful mainsail, roller furling jib and
twin steering stations for excellent visibility,
the 54.5 is maneuverable and fun to sail. The
addition of bow thrusters, electric winches
for all sail controls, a full suite of navigation
electronics and digital monitoring systems
make it a pleasure to operate.
Below deck, prepare to enter a new dimension
of luxury, comfort and style. With a generator
and fully air-conditioned interior, this yacht
is suited for your comfort in any weather.
The immaculate interior features four bright,
spacious double staterooms each with a
The Moorings 54.5
changing area, hanging locker, opening ports
and hatches, fans and individual reading
lights. Baths include electric toilets and the aft
head includes a separate shower stall. Located
in the forepeak, an additional single air
conditioned crew cabin with toilet and sink is
accessible through a deck hatch. Port-side, a
galley reminiscent of a full-size kitchen offers
ample counter space and storage, double
sink, 3-burner stove with oven and a large
Conitnued at bottom of page 3
TheMoorings Mainsheet
2
®
By Donna Hansen
A New Tortola Treasure
The New Moorings Village on Tortola
Promises the Perfect Start & End to Your
Charter Vacation!
If you haven’t visited The Moorings Village in Tortola this
year, then you truly haven’t experienced the Moorings base
at all! A recent trip to Tortola in the British Virgin Islands
has opened my eyes—my next visit will definitely include a
few extra days to fully enjoy the surroundings and first-rate
amenities on offer!
The quality is evident from the moment the driver pulls into
the lushly landscaped, brick-paved and covered drive leading
to the open-air reception area. Friendly smiles greeted me,
and island punch drinks quickly followed. Care for a little rum
with your punch? Just ask!
The outdoor plaza, complete with modern cushioned lounge
chairs and umbrella-shaded teak tables, offers the perfect place
to kick-off your vacation or continue your island getaway after
cruising the Caribbean. The sea breezes stirring from the Sir
Francis Drake channel and the stunning vistas are a lovely hint
of what awaits you out on the water.
While awaiting the rest of my group’s arrival, I chose a one
night stay at The Mariner Inn and was able to spend a day
enjoying The Moorings Village, unaware at the time that
this would be a highlight of my trip. The newly renovated
Mariner Inn hotel room was beautiful, finished with a nicely
tiled modern bathroom, crisp new white linens and wicker
seating on the balcony, which overlooked the harbor. The
Moorings Village also offers luxury oceanfront hotel rooms
with spectacular views. After getting settled, a stroll to the
pool (and pool bar) was in order.
Gary, the first member of our sailing crew, arrived at the base
in time to join me for a late lunch poolside, where we were
greeted by long-time Moorings restaurant host, “Popeye”.
We quickly decided on a Pain Killer and “The Blast,” the
restaurant’s BLT with avocado. After our meal arrived, Gary
informed me that his parents grew avocados in California, and
that this one was great! I agreed. The fresh avocado, Caribbean
rum and tropical pool area were the perfect combination,
settling us into “island time” in no time at all.
atmosphere including fantastic harbor views and cooling
breezes. Sleek furnishings, a soaring natural wood ceiling,
sultry lighting and a blazing pizza oven all tantalize the senses.
The aromas that percolated from the pizza oven made our
decision easy—we decide on a fresh, gourmet four cheese
pizza, as well as an arugula salad with roasted bell pepper
dressing. On your next trip, plan to spend some time over
dinner at Charlie’s, as I’m sure that you won’t want to leave!
My overall experience at The Moorings Village leads me to
recommend a stay to every Moorings charterer that I meet.
Spend a few days before or after your next charter at the new
Moorings base, and venture into Road Town for a little local
exploring. One night here is definitely not enough!
The Moorings offers special rates for the Mariner Inn hotel rooms. Ask
your Vacation Planning Specialist about extending your stay on Tortola!
One pleasant surprise followed after another, but my favorite
was Charlie’s Restaurant and Bar, aptly named after The
Moorings founder, Charlie Cary. Built out over the water
and open-air on three sides, Charlie’s offers a casually elegant
The British Virgin Islands 2009 /2010
Events & Adventures
december
December 2
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
December 31
New Year’s Eve at Trellis Bay
Residents and tourists turn out in
large numbers at Trellis Bay’s annual
New Year’s bash to ring in the New
Year 2010.
Old Year’s Night on Jost Van Dyke
Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke is known
as one of the top three places in
the world to be at for New Year’s
Eve (locally known as “Old Year’s
Night”). Plenty of food and lots of
entertainment.
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
jan u ary
January 15 - January 24
REAL Kiteboarding BVI 2010
A “Special 5th Year Anniversary
Edition” trip to celebrate the BVIs and
their partnership with The Moorings.
REAL BVI 2010 will feature extended
water time, celebrity appearances,
special events and parties, and of
course, the best yachts in the world
from The Moorings!
www.realkiteboarding.com
January 9 - 16
Annual Medicine for Mariners
and Safety at Sea Educational
Conference
A conference designed for
physicians, nurses and healthcare
professionals. The course is
accredited for up to 15 Category I
CME credits. Contact The Moorings
at 888-703-3173.
January 30
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
febr u ary
February 28
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
march
March 30
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
april
April 1 - 4
Virgin Gorda Easter Festival
Easter Festival on Virgin Gorda is a
weekend filled with fun for family
and friends. It’s a showcase of local
entertainment and culinary delights!
Contact the BVI Tourist Board for
detailed information, www.bvitourism.
com or 284-495-5181.
March 29 - April 4
2010 BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing
Festival
Sponsored by The Moorings, the BVI
Spring Regatta is a must-do regatta —
and great sailing is just the beginning!
Come for the racing, entertainment,
parties and more!
Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola
www.bvispringregatta.org
April 28
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
may
May 27
Bomba’s Full Moon Party
Bomba Shack, Tortola
Fireball Full Moon Party
Aragorn’s Studio, Trellis Bay, BVI
May 31 - June 2
BVI Music Festival
The British Virgin Island’s annual music
festival is not to be missed. Listen to live
music while on the beach or from your
boat, savor local dishes, catch up with
friends and dance the night away on the
white sand!
TheMoorings Mainsheet
®
By David Shaw
Moorings Charters
Inspire Young Cruiser
3
Instead of sailing primarily in the BVI, Alec
selected destinations mostly in the U.S. Virgin
Islands, planning an itinerary that included visits
to St. Croix, St. John, Norman Island (in the
BVI), and back to St. Thomas, where he and
Zeke dropped Joe and Pam off to catch their
flight home.
“It was an awesome time,” Alec says. “We went
snorkeling at the caves at Norman Island, then
had drinks on the Willie T that night. We spent
two days exploring St. Croix, and another day at
St. John. The sailing was fantastic. We had some
of the harbors all to ourselves.”
Alec and Zeke sailed the Moorings cat back to
Road Town, and continued exploring the BVI
aboard their own boat. They went ashore to
experience the incredible rock formations at The
Baths on Virgin Gorda, where they also tried a
little rock diving. They dove on the wreck of
HMS Rose, near Peter Island. No cruise to the
BVI would be complete without stopping at the
Bitter End Yacht Club, at Virgin Gorda’s North
Sound, and Foxy’s beachside bar, on Jost Van
Dyke, and they did just that.
“We spent about another week sailing in the
BVI,” Alec says. “It was the first time I’d been
there as an adult. This time I got to have a real
pina colada!”
After sailing with his family in the BVI, Alec Tarberry wanted
much more, and he got it.
When Alec Tarberry was just a kid growing
up in North Conway, New Hampshire, he
accompanied his family on five yacht charters
with The Moorings, mostly in the British Virgin
Islands. Snorkeling in crystal clear waters, playing
on white-sand beaches, and sailing fast Moorings
yachts really made an impression on him.
Alec didn’t forget sailing, even though he
didn’t do much of it in high school or college.
The dream of going cruising was like a
dormant seed.
But then he and his good friend, Zeke Davisson,
hatched a plan. After they graduated from
Middlebury College in Vermont, and before
continuing their education in law school, they
decided to buy an old boat and go cruising in
the Caribbean. They graduated in the spring
of 2008, got temporary jobs, and saved money.
In January 2009, at the ripe old ages of 24, they
took off, setting out from Florida on Slayride,
a 1975 35-foot C&C. They worked their way
eastward and by last April they were closing in
on the BVI.
that frequently, including taking a family cruise
in the Mediterranean. “Since it was a last minute
thing, my dad couldn’t book his own boat, but
he lined up a Moorings 4700 for a seven-day
charter during the last week of April,” Alec
says.
“We were in Puerto Rico, and I called my dad
and told him we were going to be in the BVI.
He thought it would be fun to meet us there and
go sailing,” Alec says.
Alec and Zeke sailed the C&C to Road Town,
securely anchored the boat, and picked up the
Moorings 4700, aware that chartering while
cruising was a novel concept. They headed to
Charlotte Amalie, in St. Thomas, to meet Joe,
and his girlfriend, Pam, whose flight was due in
later that day.
Alec’s dad, Joe, a New England-based real estate
developer, has been a Moorings yacht owner
since 2005, when he bought a Moorings 4600
catamaran, which he keeps at The Moorings base
in Road Town, Tortola. With yacht ownership,
it’s possible to sail sister ships in other Moorings
destinations, as well as your own boat. Joe does
Continued from cover
The Moorings 43.4
Alec and Zeke are now in law school, dreaming
of their adventures under sail between stints of
hitting the books. “I know it sounds like a cliché,
but there’s something about sailing that’s just
magical,” Alec says. “You feel really free. It’s just
you, the ocean, and the boat.”
To plan your BVI escape, call our Vacation Planning Specialists at
888-939-2248, or visit us at www.moorings.com.
“The sun was shining and we were on a broad
reach doing nine knots all the way,” Alec says.
“It was perfect!”
excellent, comfortable accommodations and
superlative sailing performance.
• Moorings 51.5 - Driven by a powerful
mainsail with electric halyard winch, a
short overlapping roller-furling genoa
and spread of sail totaling 1,184 square
feet, The Moorings 51.5 is prepared to
deliver an exciting cruise. Four double
cabins, a forepeak crew berth, and sizeable
U-shaped salon add to the below-deck
comforts.
• Moorings 43.3 & 43.4 - The awardwinning Moorings 43.3 3-cabin and 43.4
4-cabin yachts offer a functional cockpit
design with dual helms for excellent
visibility, port-side galley, sizable cabins
and a luxurious salon.
• Moorings 41.3 - Fast, elegant, and
comfortable, a Moorings 41.3 is a superior
3-cabin cruising yacht that has won
awards from major boating publications.
The below-deck accommodations are
luxurious and yet functional, ideal for a
crew of six, but roomy enough for eight.
Features include a self-stacking full-batten
mainsail, a roller-furling genoa, and dual
helm stations.
To cruise on these newest yachts, visit
www.moorings.com to learn more about the
fleet and begin planning your next charter.
Our Vacation Planning Specialists are ready
to assist you, call us today at 1-888-939-2248!
with TV/DVD player, CD player with
cockpit speakers and MP3 connection for
your digital music.
The Moorings 43.4
refrigerator. The neighboring U-shaped
salon offers the convenience of two separate
seating areas with a dining table, which also
converts into a berth to accommodate up
to 11 passengers. A separate chart table is
situated aft of the salon. For added enjoyment
a complete entertainment system is provided
Starting in December, you can sail the all new
Moorings 54.5 from our recently renovated
base in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
Recently Debuted 37’ to 51’
Monohulls!
Already available at many bases worldwide,
these other newcomers are designed to meet
the needs of smaller crews, while maintaining
The Moorings 41.3
TheMoorings Mainsheet
4
®
are dramatic twin coastal peaks that soar 2,000
feet from St. Lucia’s turquoise waters. Apart
from this natural beauty, St. Lucia has resorts,
spas, art galleries and numerous restaurants.
Swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are all popular activities.
Dining in historic Rodney Bay or soaking up
the old world charm and Creole ambiance of
Soufriére, a small town complete with quaint
beachside restaurants and open-air markets, is
another treat.
Awe-inspiring
Seascapes
Situated further south is St. Vincent, one of the
largest Windward Islands. Many sailors grab a
mooring in Young Island Cut, a beautiful
anchorage on the south end of the island with
excellent nightlife ashore, or Blue Lagoon.
Land cruises to
Montreal Estate
Gardens, the Falls
of Baleine or an
afternoon exploring the 1700s architecture in the capital of Kingstown,
include some of
St. Vincent’s delights.
Navigate the Eastern Caribbean waters on an sailing, sightseeing and relaxing getaway all your own
Exploring the Windward Islands is tantalizing
for the senses. This chain of islands, which
includes Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent,
the Grenadines, and Grenada, shape the eastern border of the Caribbean Sea adjacent to
the Atlantic Ocean. Considered by sailors to
offer some of the most excellent year-round
sailing, this region of the Eastern Caribbean is
the perfect playground to explore a variety of
unique destinations.
With Moorings bases in Marigot Bay,
St. Lucia and Charlestown Bay, Canouan,
The Moorings has a variety of charter
options to satisfy the thrills that your
adventurous spirit craves.
Popular with many, the one-way charter is
a nice alternative to the round-trip charter.
With so much to explore both afloat and afoot
at each destination, the one-way charter provides the perfect opportunity to cover more
Request
Your New
2010 Brochure
NORTH AMERICA
CARIBBEAN
MEDITERRANEAN
SOUTH PACIFIC
INDIAN OCEAN
FAR EAST
THE MOORINGS
2010 BAREBOAT VACATIONS
The Best Sailing Vacations In The World!
er Wal,
Our new 2010 Bareboat Sailing Vacations
brochure is available now!
Request your brochure at www.moorings.com
or call 1-888-939-2248 today.
ground, while combining open-water sailing
with island-hopping excursions throughout
St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Many sailors opt for a one-way from St.
Lucia and sail southwards to St. Vincent
and the Grenadines,
while others opt for
a Canouan sailing
vacation to Grenada.
Either way, you cover
more ground with a
customized one-way
charter and avoid sailing to windward. In
general, wind velocities of these cruising
grounds run the gamut
from a gentle 10 knots
to a more spirited 25
knots, while temperatures fall at a comfortable
75°F to 82°F. Navigation is straightforward,
though plotting courses and keeping an eye on
the GPS is important.
St. Lucia, known as the
Jewel of the Windwards,
is famous for its steep
coastlines,
pristine
beaches and welcoming
culture. Only 27 miles
long and 14 miles wide,
this emerald isle of lush
rainforest is teeming
with wild orchids, giant
ferns and exotic wildlife like the endangered
St. Lucia parrot. The
Pitons, a favored first
stop by many charters,
Losing yourself in
the beauty of the
Grenadine Islands
is the real treasure
of a Windward
Islands
sailing
vacation. With more than 32 islands in this
chain to explore, your sailing itinerary has so
many possibilities—visit the more well-known
locales of Bequia, Mustique, the Tobago Cays,
Mayreau, Union Island and Canouan or let
your sense of adventure guide you into the
uninhabited and pristine...it’s all up to you and
your crew!
Consider enjoying a different anchorage every
night, take pleasure in sojourns ashore to walk
palm-fringed beaches, count the shooting
stars or venture into the extensive reefs of
Tobago’s premier snorkeling and scuba diving
grounds. Why not explore the seafaring history of Bequia and Admiralty Bay, sample the
Eastern Caribbean fare of many unique locales
or discover the mansions and hiking paths of
famous Mustique.
With sunrises, sunsets and starlit skies ahead,
the possibilities are endless. Start planning
your escape to the Eastern Caribbean. Visit the
all new Moorings website, www.moorings.com,
to review sample itineraries, learn about all of
the options at these breathtaking destinations
and book an unforgettable charter.
The Moorings Highlighted in National TV Debuts
Hosting Little People,
Big World’s Roloff family in the BVIs!
On a recent episode of
TLC’s real-life documentary,
Little People, Big World, The
Moorings hosted the Roloff
family and friends on a “boys
trip” to discover the best of
the British Virgin Islands on
a Moorings Crewed Yacht.
Comprised of more than 25
beautiful islands set amid the
sheltered, turquoise waters
of the central Caribbean
Sea, they all had much to explore in the BVIs. Their activities
included fun-filled ATV and taxi tours, diving, snorkeling, hiking
and kayaking. Plus, the Roloff crew visited many points of interest such as Norman Island and the Caves, the archipelago’s largest
island of Virgin Gorda and its intriguing rock formation known as
The Baths, Jost Van Dyke, the unique coral and limestone isle of
Anegada, and Sir Richard Branson’s Necker Island.
Reflecting on their experience, Matt summarized by saying, “It would
have been impossible for us not to have had the trip of a lifetime!
Captain Simon and First Mate Louise were also exceptional and you
should be proud of them representing The Moorings team”.
This was not the first time the Roloffs travelled with The
Moorings. In 2007, the family cruised the Bahamas on a trip that
was prominently and positively featured in the TLC series. The
Bahamas production went on to take Grand Prize in the John
Southam Award for Excellence in Maritime Marketing, of which
the winning proceeds were donated to the U.S. Special Olympic
Sailing Team.
Destination Exploration with Caribbean Travel
& Life, Plus Passport to Adventure!
The Moorings has also been featured in several other programs,
including Caribbean Travel & Life’s “Affordable Caribbean” episode #5 on the British Virgin Islands, which aired on The Travel
Channel in mid-October, and Passport to Adventure, a PBS Travel
Program.
Be sure to check your local TV listings to view additional airings
of these programs!
TheMoorings Mainsheet
5
®
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Excerpt from Motorboating.com, Sept. 2009
The Family Islands
We turn the typical cruise with the kids into a big adventure on a powerboat charter in the Abacos.
Here’s a story with a happy ending: We figured out how to put the romance back into
our cruising life. Years ago, after baby number
two joined our three-person crew, boating
for our family became less about adventure
and more about routine. Like other parents
of young children, my husband, Chris, and
I found ourselves trading the excitement of
traveling to new places for the sheer ease of
running to tried-and-true spots that were
close to home, safe for little swimmers and
within range of dock-and-dine with macaroni
and cheese on the menu. Fortunately for us, all
of that was about to change.
This summer, we shook things up with a
bareboat charter aboard a 47-foot catamaran
S avor i ng
W
in the Abacos, where we happily powered out
of a cruising rut. As we discovered, this area
in the northern Bahamas is more than just
one of the prettiest boating destinations in the
world. It’s also one of the most family-friendly
places around, even for a clan like ours with two
school-age children — Lauren, 6, and Kyle, 8.
In the Abacos, we found an authentic and accessible island getaway where there’s enough surf,
sport and fun to keep little ones busy, along with
a cruising atmosphere that makes it easy for parents to decompress and really enjoy the ride.
We cast off lines from the Conch Inn Hotel &
Marina in Marsh Harbour. This is the base for
The Moorings, an international outfit with a
longstanding (40 years) reputation for excel-
th e
lent service and well-maintained boats — the
company boasts the youngest charter fleet in
the business. We were loaned a Moorings 474
Powercat, which was engineered specifically
for the company by the naval architecture firm
Morrelli & Melvin Design and Engineering in
California. (Co-founder Gino Morrelli was a
leading member of the team that designed Stars
and Stripes for the America’s Cup.) With four
cabins and four separate heads, it offered much
more room than we needed. In fact, this boat
has enough space for two families to cruise
comfortably (max capacity is 12 passengers).
Leaving Marsh Harbour, we headed into
Abaco Sound, which at two miles wide and
60 miles long is a smooth, protected water-
way that’s relatively easy to navigate. With
the average depth in Abaco Sound at 18 feet,
there are many times you run in 10 or 12 feet
of water. Reliable electronics come in handy
here. Our Powercat (with a draft of 3 feet 1
inch) had a Raymarine C-Series GPS/chart
plotter, a system that made it easier for us to
pick our way around the shallower patches and
cruise at a nice 16-knot clip with a pair of 150
hp Cummins diesels.
We’ve chartered Powercats in other locations
before, so we knew we could expect great handling. The 474 is particularly easy to maneuver
at the dock, which could surprise people who
are unfamiliar with this cat and intimidated by
that 24-foot beam. Plus, our boat was equipped
with everything we needed to be comfortable, including a full galley, air conditioning,
generator, reliable windlass and TV in the
salon, but with so much to do outside, the kids
surprisingly lost all interest in TV.
To read the whole story about the Craig family’s
Bahamian cruise from Marsh Harbour to Man-OWar Cay, the exceptional destinations in between,
and their charter planning experience, visit www.
moorings.com. Or, for more information on a
Moorings Power vacation call 888-939-2248.
Now SAVE $500* on a 474 Powercat charter
from Jan 4 - Feb 13, or Mar 15 - Apr 15, 2010.
Captain’s Rewards members save 5% more!
Book by Dec 18, 2009.
*
Restrictions and minimum days apply. Call for details.
E m e r a l d I sl e
The rural ambience of Ireland’s Shannon River proved irresistible
for two Le Boat cruisers
Darrel Snuggerud is no stranger to
river and canal cruising with Le
Boat. After experiencing the pleasures of France’s Canal du Midi,
Europe’s oldest waterway that
winds through the French countryside from the Atlantic Ocean to
the Mediterranean Sea, he and his
wife, Holly, chose Ireland for their
next Le Boat vacation adventure.
Last July the Snuggeruds, who
live in Savannah, Georgia, flew
to Ireland on a two-part vacation. As avid bicyclists, they built a weeklong bike tour into their vacation
itinerary, riding the scenic roads along the Irish coast and stopping at picturesque towns. The second half
of the vacation promised a far more relaxing time on a 10-day Le Boat cruise along the Shannon River.
The Shannon-Erne waterway is the longest inland cruising system in Europe. It meanders through
Ireland’s Midlands in the County of Cavan, known for its beauty, inviting small towns with lively pubs,
great freshwater fishing, and more than 300 pristine lakes. Intriguing castles and monasteries, all fascinating to explore, add to the appeal of the waterway, where wildlife abounds and the scenery is superb.
“The first part of the trip was heavy on the exercise, and the second part was pure relaxation,” says
Darrel Snuggerud. He adds that another reason for choosing Ireland as a destination, aside from its
beauty, was that Holly’s ancestors hailed from there and she wanted to see the country.
With two other couples aboard, the Snuggeruds selected the largest 4-cabin yacht available to assure
plenty of room to relax in comfort. Darrel, 63, says the bow thrusters were a real asset when maneuvering
the 50-foot boat at marinas. “The boat was great,” he says. “Everything worked and the service from
Le Boat staff couldn’t have been better.”
There are numerous itineraries available when cruising the Shannon River,
enabling you to select the areas you’re
most interested in exploring. The
Snuggeruds chose a trip departing from
the Le Boat base at Carrick-on-Shannon,
a major yachting center in Ireland, and
cruised south for roughly 100 miles to
the Le Boat base at Portumna. Along the
way, they stopped at quaint villages to
enjoy the pubs and restaurants, and to amble
along the narrow lanes. Not surprisingly,
they rented bicycles from Le Boat and rode
through the countryside after tying up the
boat for the night.
“We had plenty of time to do off-boat
activities,” says Darrel, who works as a
vice president for Morgan Stanley when
he’s not out having fun. “We’d get off the boat and go bicycling. We’d look
through the travel book and go explore a castle or abbey. Ireland is a lovely place. One of the charming
things about it is there are pubs everywhere! We really enjoyed that.”
A highlight of the trip was visiting Athlone, a bustling town known as the Capital of the Midlands.
A major European triathlon was being held when the Snuggeruds arrived, and they spent the day watching the athletes. “The town was packed with spectators,” he says. “It was a real party atmosphere.”
Darrel and Holly aren’t sure where they’ll go next, but with Le Boat
destinations in eight European countries, they have a wide variety of
choices when it comes time to plan their next adventure.
Le Boat is a sister company of The Moorings, offering self-drive European
canal cruises. Find out more at www.leboat.com, or call 1-800-992-0291.
TheMoorings Mainsheet
6
®
T h e L e i s u r e l y Wa y A r o u n d
for the Sheraton Hotel in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
She’d grown up in a coastal town south of Rio,
where she and her family raced yachts. Rio was
nice, but she longed to sail full-time.
The dream became a
reality when she met
Geraldo, a former
entrepreneur in event
management and commercial airline pilot
who also wanted to go
cruising. At the time,
Geraldo, a lifelong
sailor from Rio, was
doing yacht charters
and deliveries in the
Caribbean and elsewhere.
Two world cruisers linger in the Caribbean, showing Moorings
Crewed Yacht Charter guests the less traveled gems of the BVI.
Surf breaks on the reef in Eustatia Sound as
Geraldo Aguiar, captain of a crewed Moorings
4600 catamaran, noses into the turquoise waters
at the northeastern end of Virgin Gorda, in the
British Virgin Islands. He makes the approach
through the reef seem effortless while guests lounge on
the trampoline and admire
the tropical scenery before
they go snorkeling. Andrea
“Andy” Passos, the yacht’s
gourmet chef, serves delicious snacks.
“Eustatia Sound is so beautiful,” Andy says. “It’s still really
virgin, and usually there are no
other charter boats around.”
Eustatia Sound is off limits to
Moorings bareboats, but on a crewed yacht it’s
possible to experience parts of the BVI that are
so off the beaten path they don’t show up in
cruising guides. Of course, all the major highlights – Virgin Gorda’s North Sound, The Bight
at Norman Island, the beachside bars of Tortola
and Jost Van Dyke – all can figure into a crewed
itinerary.
Andy and Geraldo are no
strangers to the BVI. They’ve
been cruising there for years
with The Moorings Luxury
Crewed Yachts, sailing
Moorings 4600 and 4700 catamarans, piloting Moorings
474 powered catamarans,
and unveiling all the BVI has
to offer while working hard
to ensure that every guest
experiences “the vacation of
a lifetime,” Geraldo says.
For Andy, 34, and Geraldo, 42, their job is their
lifestyle, the living of a dream that first took
shape more than six years ago. Back in 2003
Andy was working as public relations manager
Medical Training in a Sailor’s Paradise
“For us, cruising is a way to experience nature
and the freedom of sailing,” Andy says. “It’s a
way for us to enjoy a wonderful lifestyle, and not
have to quit working.”
Sailing crewed yachts is a special experience for
them and their guests, Andy says, adding that
the gourmet food sets a Moorings crewed yacht
charter apart from many others. She always bases
the menu on the food preferences of the guests,
and suggests fun ways to enjoy the fare, such as
selecting a menu theme for the evening meal
ranging from Italian to Brazilian cuisine, whatever the guests prefer. The Castaway Brunch is
very popular, a picnic set on a deserted beach
with chilled champagne to sip in paradise.
Guests include groups of friends, executives on
corporate retreats, and families with children.
“We especially love it when kids are aboard,”
Andy says. “For them the boat is like a spaceship,
dollhouse, and aquarium all in one. They love
Join us for this exciting and outstanding educational opportunity in a stunning tropical paradise. For further details on the 7th Annual Medicine for Mariners & Safety at Sea
Conference call the Moorings at 888-703-3173.
New for
2 010
Medical Professionals,
Sail Tahiti & Earn CME Credits!
March 14 – 20, 2010. Call for details.
Visit our new website to
request your 2010
Crewed Yacht Vacations
Brochure
www.moorings.com
Leave Winter Behind with an
All-Inclusive Tropical Adventure
From $1274 per person/per week
Escape with family and friends on an unforgettable Moorings Crewed Yacht Vacation. Now
SAVE 10% off* Crewed charters from Now
to December 26, 2009, or between January 4
– February 15, 2010. Captain’s Rewards cardholders save an additional 5%!
*
New full yacht bookings only, 6 day minimum. Deposit by
December 18, 2009. Valid in Tortola, St. Lucia, Canouan,
Abacos and Tahiti. Price point based on starts from Jan 4 – Feb 15,
6 people for 6 nights in the Abacos, and includes Captain’s Rewards
and Winter Savings discount.
New Base Opening in Belize
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
The course is accredited and supported by the Wilderness Medical
Society, which provides 15 category I CME credits for medical professionals. The goal is to
help seminar attendees understand the nature and treatment of common injuries, ailments,
and medical emergencies encountered in the marine environment.
And what about sailing around the world? The
dream is alive and well. Andy and Geraldo hope
to set off for the South Pacific in 2011, possibly
spending a decade in the islands and continuing to
work for The Moorings. With over 29 Moorings
bases around the globe, Andy and Geraldo have
plenty of destinations to choose from.
When they started out, they both expected to
work in the marine business on the way around
the world. As an experienced captain, Geraldo
knew he could get work doing deliveries, and
as a gourmet chef and experienced sailor, Andy
knew she could always find a berth, too. In 2006,
Geraldo began working for The Moorings, and
Andy joined the team in 2008.
MEDSAIL
2010
MedSail is a unique annual
January 9 -16, 2010
week-long marine medicine
conference designed for physicians, healthcare professionals and persons
active in aquatic sports and recreational boating. The MedSail course
provides an outstanding educational opportunity while you cruise the
beautiful BVI’s.
to snorkel, and if they don’t know how, we can
teach them. By the end they don’t want to get
out of the water!”
The Moorings has a new home in Placencia,
Belize! In early November, The Moorings relocated to Laru Beya, an exceptional resort facility
with pool, beach, restaurant, and bar, as well as
a full-service marina and guest welcome center
that caters to our customers’ needs.
A brisk 5-minute walk from the resort, this
comfortable marina features A/C hook-ups
and enhanced provisioning, as well as 540 ft.
of new dock space in the main basin and 420
ft. of canal frontage.
Reminiscent of the South Pacific’s relaxed trade
wind sailing, Belize is a perfect location for a
Bareboat or Crewed Yacht charter. Calm and
protected waters with snug anchorages make this
an excellent destination for families.
One of Belize’s most remarkable
features is the Mesoamerican
Reef, only second in size to
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
With a rainbow of color stretching about 350 nautical miles
along the Belizean coast, the reef
shelters more than 400 islands
and cays with cruising grounds
that are teeming with seabirds,
manatees, whale
sharks, at least 50
species of coral
and over 500 species of tropical
fish – the perfect
recipe for Belize’s
world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing!
Be sure to schedule an excursion
inland to admire
the Mayan ruins’
magnificent plazas, temples and pyramids of 730 A.D.
The new base remains just a 10-minute
drive from the Placencia airport. For more
information on chartering in Belize visit
www.moorings.com!
TheMoorings Mainsheet
7
®
Sail into 2010 with Worry-Free Yacht Ownership
We have new Moorings 41.3 or Moorings 43.3 monohulls built
by Beneteau available for ownership in one of the world’s most
popular sailing destinations, Tortola, B.V.I. With The Moorings
Yacht Ownership program you can ring in the New Year under the
Caribbean stars from the cockpit of your award-winning monohull.
We have just a few available. Lock in one of these models and kick
off the new decade enjoying worry-free yacht ownership!
Program Benefits
• Guaranteed Monthly Revenue from The Moorings
• Up to 12 Weeks of Owner’s Use Every Year
• No Operating, Insurance, or Dockage Costs
• Professional Maintenance Included
• Use Yachts at 35 Destinations Worldwide
Own a Yacht. See the World. Get Paid!
Buying a yacht through The Moorings Yacht Ownership
Program allows you to literally sail the world and get
paid for it. With our guaranteed monthly revenue and no
operating, maintenance, or other out of pocket expenses,
you won’t find a more cost-effective ownership option.
www.MooringsYachtSales.com
Moorings 41.3 Moorings 43.3
Moorings 41.3
Fast, elegant, and comfortable, a Moorings 41.3 is a superior
3-cabin cruising yacht that has won awards from major
boating publications. The below-deck accommodations are
luxurious and yet functional, ideal for a crew of six, but
roomy enough for eight. There is also a stereo/CD player
with an MP3 connection and a flat screen TV/DVD player
plus shore power air conditioning.
Moorings 43.3
Performance under sail, comfort at rest, a Moorings 43.3
makes cruising delightful. Enjoy a large cockpit with dual
helms, a roomy saloon, and 3 spacious cabins with 3 full
heads. An entertainment center featuring a stereo/CD player and a TV/DVD player plus shore power air-conditioning
provides additional comfort. (Shore power air not available
in the Mediterranean).
Retail Price
$239,000
$289,000
Discount
$20,000
$20,000
Sale Price
$219,000
$269,000
Down Payment
$54,750
$67,250
Monthly Boat Payment
$1,408
$1,730
Guaranteed Monthly Income
$1,660
$2,000
Positive Monthly Cash Flow
$252
$270
Operating and Maintenance
$0
$0
Monthly Out Of Pocket Expense $0
$0
Value of Owner’s Use
$149,333
$123,947
Figures illustrate owning a Moorings 41.3 or Moorings 43.3 in Tortola with 25% down.
Full discount may not apply in the event of a trade.
Leopard 38
Debuts in Annapolis
The latest cat by designers Morrelli & Melvin and
builders Robertson and Caine became an instant
crowd-favorite at this year’s U.S. Sail Show.
Performance, efficient use of space and a focus on outdoor
living are the leading features of the new Leopard 38. Built
by Robertson and Caine in partnership with Morrelli &
Melvin, architects of high performance cats, the Leopard 38
sets a new benchmark for excellence. Making her worldwide
debut in Annapolis, she was met with incredible enthusiasm
by all who toured and sailed her.
Modern construction practices and materials, paired with
innovation and design advancements, exemplify the development of this catamaran. She combines unparalleled
performance and the efficient use of space that has become
a standard of the Leopard line. The Leopard 38 offers
exceptional performance and speed on the water thanks to
a well-balanced rig, attention to displacement and a stepped
hull design.
Inside, her galley-up design incorporates a spacious saloon
area in a cherry wood finish with a wide U-shaped settee
and an aft-facing galley with plenty of room to circulate.
The Leopard 38 is available in 3 or 4-cabin layouts. The
3-cabin layout features two guest cabins with a shared central head and stall shower in the port hull. The starboard hull
is dedicated to the stylish owner suite, with a spacious master
cabin and private head with large stall shower forward.
With an introductory base price of $279,000, this new cat is
quickly becoming a crowd-favorite and proving once again
Leopard Catamarans, Robertson and Caine, and Morrelli &
Melvin have created a winner. For more information please
visit us online at www.leopardcatamarans.com.
Tortola Yacht Showcase
Visit our New Brokerage Website!
Looking for a pre-owned, recent model Beneteau,
Jeanneau, Dufour, or Leopard Catamaran?
Moorings Brokerage is excited to launch our new and much
improved yacht brokerage website. By redeveloping our site, we can
now offer more information, easier navigation, and new features.
Monohulls
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54DS.................From $325,000
Dufour Gib’Sea 51....................................From $195,000
Beneteau 50...............................................From $180,000
Beneteau Cyclades 50..............................From $275,000
Dufour Classic 50......................................From $125,000
Beneteau Oceanis 473.............................From $150,000
Beneteau Cyclades 43..............................From $135,000
Dufour Gibsea 43......................................From $95,000
Beneteau Oceanis 42CC..........................From $150,000
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42.2..................From $75,000
Beneteau Oceanis 411.............................From $90,000
Beneteau Oceanis 40CC..........................From $100,000
Beneteau Oceanis 39...............................From $92,500
Beneteau Cyclades 39..............................From $120,000
Dufour 38 Classic......................................From $75,000
Beneteau Oceanis 361.............................From $65,000
Beneteau Oceanis 343.............................From $70,000
Beneteau Oceanis 331.............................From $58,000
Beneteau Oceanis 323.............................From $65,000
Catamarans
Leopard 62.................................................From $1,490,000
Privilege 65.................................................From $999,000
Marquises 56.............................................From $499,000
Leopard 47.................................................From $295,000
Leopard 45.................................................From $230,000
Belize 43......................................................From $255,000
Leopard 43.................................................From $290,000
Leopard 42.................................................From $249,000
Lagoon 410................................................From $245,000
Leopard 40.................................................From $275,000
Athena 38...................................................From $195,000
Lagoon 380................................................From $190,000
Leopard 38.................................................From $150,000
All of these yachts are for sale in Tortola;
available and priced for immediate sale.
No place in the world can you find this
selection from one company in one location.
www.mooringsbrokerage.com
Site upgrades include:
• New Look and Feel
• Easier Navigation
• New ‘Services’ Tab
• More Broker Information
• New Boat Information
Visit www.mooringsbrokerage.com
TheMoorings Mainsheet
8
®
Captain’s Rewards
Program
Give Family & Friends
Their Best Holiday Ever
It’s not too late to spend the holidays sailing in the warm Caribbean
sun. Leave the frenzy behind and treat your loved ones to a vacation
that will create memories for a lifetime! Plan your celebration in Tortola,
St. Martin, St. Lucia, Canouan, Belize, Bahamas or Mexico and SAVE 20%
off* your charter when you sail between now and December 26, 2009. Plan
NOW for best yacht choices, including the Moorings 4600 catamaran and
the new 54.5 monohull! Captain’s Rewards cardholders SAVE 5% more!
Captain’s Rewards Benefits now available for
The Moorings Crewed Yacht Vacations and
The Moorings Power!
Can’t get away
for the holidays?
You’ll receive a Moorings Captain’s Card which provides
you with valuable rewards for sailing with The Moorings
including a 5% discount off the price of your yacht each
time you book and sail with us as the head charterer. Plus,
based on availability, you’re eligible to receive special yacht
upgrades at no additional cost. You’ll also enjoy exclusive
benefits and discounts from our partners. Visit
www.moorings.com for complete program details
and terms, and to view a full list of our partners.
You can s
t
the Ultima ill give
te Gift!
New bareboat bookings only, 5 day minimum, maximum discount 25%. Book by December 18, 2009.
*
Make their sailing dreams come true with a Moorings Gift Certificate!
Gift Certificates are available in any denomination—opt for a bareboat
or crewed charter to accommodate family and friends, or consider a
couples getaway with a Moorings Crewed Yacht stateroom package.
Call our Vacation Planning Specialists at 888-939-2248 for more
information.
Get Ready to Regatta this Spring!
Moorings.com
Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes
30th St. Maarten
Heineken Regatta
March 4-7, 2010–St. Martin
Preparations for the 30th St. Maarten
Heineken Regatta are in full swing! This
event will mark 30 years of “Serious
Fun” and the organizers are making
sure that the tradition continues.
Join The Moorings in a swashbuckling Treasure Hunt
Sweepstakes like no other. Decipher the weekly clues,
explore The Moorings all-new website and locate the
keys, which can take you one step closer to unlocking
the ultimate grand prize adventure—a Moorings charter
in the British Virgin Islands! For more information
about the Sweepstakes, visit us at:
www.moorings.com/The-Moorings-Sweepstakes.
For a limited time, we’re also offering attractive incentives
for all online bookings, including gift certificates for
the purchase of Moorings merchandise. Visit www.
moorings.com to book your next unforgettable
vacation!
The island offers stunning beached,
rolling green hills, excellent duty-free
shopping and a one-of-a-kind charm
that blends European sophistication
with the laid-back simplicity of the
Caribbean. Make plans to join in the
fun this year, as a sailor or spectator.
The racing, events and entertainment
are sure to be a hit once again this year!
Call 1-888-939-2248 for details, or to
reserve your yacht.
BVI Spring Regatta
Tahiti Pearl Regatta
March 29-April 4, 2010–Tortola, BVI
May 12-16, 2010–Raiatea, Tahiti
The BVI Spring Regatta, sponsored by
The Moorings, is the “Must Do” regatta
of the Caribbean and promises both
warm water and hot racing! The event
offers great sailing bolstered by top
class entertainment and parties at the
Regatta Village in Nanny Cay Marina.
Based in one of the most picturesque
island groups of the Caribbean, this
regatta is now considered one of the
premier annual racing events.
Organized by local boat lovers in conjunction with the Tahitian Sailing Official
Federation, the Tahiti Pearl Regatta is
an important event in Polynesian life. It
combines regattas for both sailing and
dugout canoe, with an exciting opportunity to discover charming people and
places. Jump on board this annual
rendezvous for sporting fun, and exotic
adventure in Tahiti! Call 1-888-939-2248
for more information.
Whether you are here to race, sail or
party this regatta has something for
everyone­—the 7 day Regatta and Sailing
Festival, the 4 day Sailing Festival or the
3 day Regatta. Call 1-888-939-2248 to
reserve your yacht for 2010!
The Moorings is proud to be part of TUI Travel PLC
one of the largest and most successful travel and tourism companies in the world.
For more information,
or to reserve a yacht call
our Vacation Planning
Specialists at
1-888-939-2248.
Trust in TUI – Your vacation is in safe hands
Custom Embroidery
Now Available
Find Cool Gifts & Gear
at The Moorings Website
You’ll find a unique collection of gear & apparel made of modern
materials that feel great, are UPF rated, lightweight and quick drying,
perfect for activities on and off the water. Most items are tastefully
embellished with The Moorings logo, so whether it’s for a souvenir or
gear for your crew, enjoy shopping and we’ll see you on board!
Go to www.moorings.com or call 1-888-924-2050.
Carol Hansen Editor
Sailing Vacations 1-888-939-2248 • Yacht Ownership 1-800-521-1126
Caribbean • Bahamas • Mexico • North America
Mediterranean • South Pacific • Indian Ocean • F a r E a s t
PO Box 9064, Clearwater, FL 33758-9064
www.moorings.com • E-mail: yacht@mooringsnet.com • Fax: 1-727-530-9747
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U.S. Postage
PAID
Tampa, FL
Permit No. 708
P.O. Box 9064
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