overseas charter destinations

feature: bareboating
MARINER BOATING HOLIDAYS PIC
Tropical Thailand — a
short flight from Australia.
Top
10
Dreaming of
escaping to
paradise this
winter? Melissa
Farley checks
out Australian
charterers’ top
ten overseas
destinations.
36
overseas charter
destinations
Winter is coming, and w ith it the time to
escape to somewhere warm for a sailing
holiday for those who can afford the time
and money. But where? Choosing and
planning are almost as much fun as the
actual charter! This month — w ith some
help from leading charter operators Sunsail,
Dream Yacht Charter and Mariner Boating
Holidays — we feature the 10 most popu lar
overseas destinations w ith Australian
sailors. The rankings are mine, based on
their comments (not al l companies have
bases or offer charters in al l countries so
their rankings varied). Obv iously the SE
Asian destinations are the cheaper options,
w ith lower airfares and prov isioning and
dining-out costs than Europe.
Next month we will look at chartering
options in Australia, where bareboat
operators are also offering some top deals.
April 2012
1
Thailand
Thailand is consistently one of the top charter
destinations for Aussies, in part due to its close
proximity to Australia. In many places you will
find a traditional Thai lifestyle that has remained
largely unchanged for centuries, along with safe
and secure anchorages and rugged, uninhabited
islands, while others offer well-equipped
marinas, lively nightlife and sophisticated
resorts. Scuba-diving facilities in Thailand are
among the best in the world. Charter bases are
located in Phuket, Koh Chang and Koh Samui,
with Phang Nga Bay in Phuket a particularly
popular choice. Here, beaches range from gentle
crescents of sand with calm waters to dramatic
rocky headlands rising out of the surf. The
Koh Chang archipelago has many undeveloped
islands waiting to be explored. Despite its size
and close proximity to the capital, Koh Chang
remains undeveloped and untouched. Combine
Croatia
Perched on the eastern shore of the famed
Adriatic Sea and boasting some of the most
beautiful coastline in the world, Croatia is
currently one of the most popular choices
for international charterers. With multiple
starting locations to choose from — Sibenik,
Kremik (Split), Dubrovnik and Pula — you can
explore either the North or South Adriatic at
your leisure. There are 1000 islands along the
Croatian coast, of which only 66 are inhabited.
The rich history of Dalmatia and the southern
region of Croatia, with its breathtaking
architecture, has resulted in three UNESCO
World Heritage cities — 3000-year-old Zadar,
Split with its 1700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace
and the iconic walled city of Dubrovnik.
Croatia’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in
its cuisine of which, unsurprisingly, seafood is
a specialty. In summer the winds are generally
consistent and from a north-westerly direction,
ranging from 10–20 knots. The tidal range is
minimal and summer temperatures average
25–28 0 C.
3
Malaysia (Langkawi)
Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands in
the Andaman Sea, some 30km off the mainland
coast of north-western Malaysia. It offers a
wide range of destinations and anchorages,
four marinas and a yearly regatta, the Langkawi
Regatta, which attracts boats from all over the
world. Some of the marinas are part of resort
developments, offering all the amenities of firstclass resort hotels in addition to yacht services.
In 2007 Langkawi Island was given World
Geopark status by UNESCO. Three of its main
conservation areas are Machincang Cambrian
Geoforest Park, Kilim Karst Geoforest Park and
Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest park (island
of the Pregnant Maiden Lake). These three
parks are the most popular tourism area within
Langkawi Geopark. Sheltered by the backbone
of Malaysia’s peninsula, Langkawi escapes the
north-eastern winter monsoon completely and
enjoys winter sun when the east of the country
is flooded. Annual temperatures range from 2228 0C and winds from 5–20 knots.
CHT CHAR
4
Tonga
Back in 1773, Captain James Cook christened
Tonga “the Friendly Islands” and nothing has
changed about the welcome that modern day
visitors can expect — a 20-course, torch-lit Tongan
beach feast is only the start of the hospitality. Tonga
is made up of 171 islands in four distinct groups, the
northern-most of which is the Vava’u Archipelago.
The safe anchorages and secluded bays of the
Tongan Islands of Vava’u offer a near-perfect
climate for year-round sailing. Temperatures range
between 26-37 degrees C. Wind speeds range from
8–12 knots from November to March and between
13-18 knots from April to October.
Some sailors have likened the coastline to
“a cross between the Bahamas and the Virgin
Islands” with its dramatic deep water dropoffs and brilliant shallow lagoons. Swimming
here is like swimming in an aquarium — the
astonishing variety of marine life makes Tonga
one of the world’s finest snorkelling and scubadiving destinations.
5
Tahiti
Tahiti is the main island of French Polynesia,
a group of 118 islands located in the heart of the
Pacific Ocean, south of the equator. The three most
visited archipelagos by charterers are the Society
Islands, comprised of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora,
Huahine, Raiatea and Taha’a; the Tuamotu Atolls
of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava; and
the Marquesas to the north. These volcanic islands
offer breathtaking scenery as the coastlines drops
dramatically into the azure seas. Tahitians are
proud of their islands and praise them by singing,
dancing and adorning themselves with flowers.
The islands offer a beguiling mix of breathtaking
lagoons, exotic sea-life, traditional culture and
sophisticated resorts, with plenty to explore both
at sea and on land. A yacht charter in Tahiti is an
opportunity to sail in a cruising ground that allows
both for line-of-sight navigation in the calm waters
ABOVE: Stunning
Langkawi in Malaysia.
SUNSAIL PIC
2
DREAM YA
on-water activities with land-based adventures,
like an elephant safari. Known the world over for
its beautiful scenery and excellent diving, Koh
Samui also offers outstanding sailing conditions
and is perfect for exploring secluded bays
and inlets. On a Thai sailing holiday you can
admire the stunning coastline from the deck of
your yacht when the weather is sunny and dry,
temperatures from November to April range
from 21-24 0C and the north-easterly winds a
light to moderate 5–20 knots.
TER PIC
feature: bareboating
INSERT: The magnificent
walled city of Dubrovnik
in Croatia.
April 2012
37
feature: bareboating
behind the reefs and also more exhilarating
open-water passages. The tidal range is
negligible, but narrow passes between reefs
demand careful navigation. Wind speeds
generally range from 10–15 knots and
temperatures range from a low of 25 degrees
C to a high of 35 degrees C in summer.
dly Islands”.
Tonga, “the Frien
SUNSAIL PIC
6
Procida, Italy — for experienced sailors.
38
April 2012
Italy
An intoxicating fusion of cultures and
civilisations, Sicily with its stunning natural
splendour provides the perfect backdrop
for a charter around its waters. With an
array of secluded anchorages and the warm
Mediterranean Sea you can cruise through
history and enjoy the Greek, Roman and
Arab influences on the architecture, the
cuisine and of course the wine! Sicily is
well known for its unique natural beauty
and the highest active volcano in Europe,
Mount Etna. The coast offers a landscape
of fascinating beauty, with smaller islets scattered
all around the coast. An Italian bareboat yacht
charter from Palermo is perhaps suited to more
experienced sailors. These seas offer something for
everyone — gentle cruising around the coast and
between the various Egadi (Aegadian) islands as well
as the excitement of open-water passages further
afield , to Pantelleria, Ustica and beyond. In summer
winds are generally north-westerly, 8-12 knots and
temperatures average 25–32 degrees C.
Nestled in the Bay of Naples near the exclusive
islands of Capri and Ischia, the secret gem that is
Procida is relatively undiscovered and untouched.
Perfectly located for access to the stunning Amalfi
Coast and Pontine Islands, the sheltered short
passages and warm breezes make this area ideal for
a relaxing charter. An Italian sailing holiday from
Procida is suited to sailors with a reasonable level of
previous sailing experience. It is the perfect starting
point from which to explore the archipelago of the
unspoilt Pontine Islands, with their rocky outcrops,
attractive villages and excellent snorkelling and
diving, which are only accessible by sea. In summer,
winds are generally north-westerly, 8-12 knots and
temperatures average 25–32 degrees C.
Tropea is one of the most beautiful towns in
Calabria on the south Tyrrhenian coast, and has
successfully preserved its 16th century features,
offering both historical and architectural delights. It
overlooks a crystal-clear blue sea with magnificent
white, sandy beaches and impressive rock formations.
It is the ideal departure point to visit southern Italy,
Sicily or the Aeolian Islands, only 30 miles away.
The cruising grounds blend chic ports of call such
as Panarea Island, a favourite among the jet-setter
crowd, with the quiet ambience of islands off the
tourist track such as Salina. Swimming, snorkelling,
and sunbathing on pristine beaches is a delight.
Castles, fascinating archaeological sites and historic
feature: bareboating
waterfront villages are in abundance, as are
eclectic boutiques and fine restaurants. In summer,
winds are generally north-westerly, 8-12 knots and
temperatures average 27–30 degrees C.
Obviously with the current world financial
situation check the latest government travel advice
for this country before booking.
7
MARINER BOATING HOLIDAYS PIC
Greece
Greece offers three main cruising grounds: the
Ionian Islands, the Cyclades Islands and the Saronic
Islands. Scattered along the western coastline of
Central Greece, the Ionian Islands are an island
cluster comprising 12 small and large islands, the
most well-known of which is Corfu. A year-round
mild and temperate climate combines with excellent
tourist infrastructure to present a range of holiday
options. The waters here are some of the deepest
in the Mediterranean at around 4400m. The range
of sea sports, historic monuments, lush vegetation
and friendly locals make the Ionian Islands the ideal
place for a sailing holiday.
The most famous island group in the Aegean Sea,
the name “Cyclades” refers to the islands forming a
circle (the name in English means “circular islands”)
around the sacred island of Delos. According to the
Greek mythology, Poseidon, God of the sea, furious
at the Cyclades nymphs turned them into islands.
Cruising in the Cyclades is like being on a movie
set — think white stone villages, golden beaches,
isolated chapels on rocky outcrops and crystalABOVE: Romantic Greece.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A DESTINATION
Your level of sailing experience is obviously a
key factor when choosing a bareboat charter
destination. It’s vital that your nominated skipper
(you, your spouse or Uncle Harold) be sufficiently
competent to keep boat and crew safe at all
times. In addition to the skills and experience of
your nominated skipper there is also the question
of licence or accreditation. While requirements
can vary from country to country, acquiring an
International Certificate of Competency (ICC) is
a good investment if you are planning to charter
overseas (see sidebar box).
Budget is another key factor. In addition to the cost
of the boat you need to factor in return flights, plus
onboard provisions (food, drinks) and entertainment
(restaurants, scuba diving, tours, souvenirs). Contact
the charter company for a quote and make sure you
are clear about what is included in the charter price
and what isn’t. Provisioning, fuel and insurance are
normally extra.
Remember the impact of seasonality — review the
weather patterns and expected sailing conditions
for the time of year you will be travelling. As always,
remember that winds can be stronger than predicted.
Finally, be sure you have considered what you want
from your holiday: do you want a mix of land and
water activities, or do you just want to go sailing?
Are you the sporty type, or would you rather explore
a museum and learn about foreign cultures. Try to
accommodate the needs of everyone in your group
— or take separate holidays!
Getting the most out of your charter
Do your homework. Research both the charter
company and the destinations you are interested in.
Understand what is included in the charter cost, and
what extras you might be up for.
Make sure you have your travel documentation,
vaccinations, accreditation etc. well before
departure time.
If you haven’t spent much time on a boat, it may be
wise to choose the next size up from what you think
you’ll need. Remember the old adage “your boat
gets 1ft smaller every day!” In general monohulls are
better for experienced sailors, or someone who is
primarily focused on the sailing component of the
holiday. A catamaran is typically more stable and
has a larger saloon for socialising.
Don’t try to cram too much into your charter time —
go for quality over quantity. There’s always next time!
April 2012
39
PIC
ING HOLIDAYS
SUNSAIL PIC
MARINER BOAT
ABOVE: Sunset in
the Caribbean.
RIGHT: A Turkish bath!
blue waters. Some favourite destinations include
Mykonos, Tinos and Andros.
Aegina, Agkistri, Spetses, Hydra, Poros,
Salamina and the peninsula of Methana form the
island complex of the Argosaronic Gulf in southern
Greece. Steeped in ancient mythology and in close
proximity to Athens, they are among the popular of
sailing destinations in Greece. Hydra, in particular,
built in the shape of an amphitheatre on a slope
overlooking the Argosaronic gulf, is one of the most
romantic destinations in Greece. Traditional stone
mansions, narrow cobblestoned streets, secluded
squares and the use of around 500 donkeys as
means of public transportation, explain the reason
why Hydra has preserved its distinctive atmosphere
through the passage of time.
Generally speaking, the Saronic Gulf is ideal
for protected and scenic coastal cruising, while
the Aegean Sea and the Cyclades offer more
wind and the opportunity for exhilarating openwater sailing. The winds are predictable in both
areas, generally southerly, ranging from 10-20
knots in the Saronic Gulf and up to 25 knots in
MORE ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL
CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY
The ICC is officially known as an
International Certificate for Operators
of Pleasurecraft and is the maritime
equivalent of an international driving
permit. It is documentary assurance
from one government to another that
the holder is capable of managing a
boat on that country’s waterways. It
is not a qualification in its own right,
but evidence of proficiency. While
requirements can vary from country
to country, the ICC is recognised
to some degree throughout the
European Union. It is of particular
importance if you are chartering a
vessel in a foreign country or using
40
April 2012
European inland waterways. The ICC
is normally not required in Northern
European coastal waters, but it’s a
good idea to check what is required
in your destination country before
locking in your booking. Your charter
company should be able to help
you. Most Yachting Australia training
centres offer the required theory
and practical testing to acquire the
ICC. The assessment normally takes
around four hours. An RYA/YA Day
Skipper Certificate or above will
automatically meet the requirements.
An ICC certificate will cost you $80 in
addition to any course costs.
the Aegean. Summer temperatures average 2427 degrees C. An Athens bareboat yacht charter
is great for those more confident sailors with a
reasonable level of experience.
Obviously with the current world financial
situation check the latest government travel
advice for this country before booking.
8
Turkey
Sailing holidays in Turkey are some of the
best in the world with steady winds, clear
blue waters, beautiful beaches and numerous
secluded anchorages. There is the opportunity
to explore a wide range of archaeological
ruins, bazaars that resemble an Aladdin’s cave
packed with treasures waiting to be unearthed,
secluded coastal villages and bustling modern
marinas. You can anchor off local beaches or
cruise lazily along the coast, stopping at unspoilt
villages or lively towns. In summer temperatures
can reach 32 degrees C, making the cooling sea
breezes most welcome. Winds are generally
calm in the mornings, getting stronger in the
afternoons, in the range of 10-20 knots and
generally calm down at night. Popular charter
bases include Turgutreis, Orhaniye and Gocek.
9
Caribbean (British Virgin Islands)
The British Virgin Islands offer an ideal blend
of easy deep-water island hops, consistent trade
winds, line-of-sight navigation and plentiful
sheltered anchorages, making this an excellent
family-friendly location and perfect for sailing
holidays. Crystal-clear waters — ideal for
snorkelling and diving — picture perfect beaches,
extraordinary rock formations, plentiful onshore
attractions and a great selection of laid-back
bars and restaurants combine to make a British
Virgin Islands sailing holiday one to remember.
A British Virgin Islands yacht charter with its
easy, deep-water sailing between the 60 stunning
islands of the archipelago is suitable for sailors
with only a small amount of previous experience.
DREAM YACHT CHARTER PIC
feature: bareboating
The liveliest sailing is generally around Christmas
and the most gentle during the summer months.
Winds in the winter are generally northeast trade
winds, in summer they come from the south-east.
Temperatures average 26-30 degrees C year round.
10
Seychelles
The Seychelles are often called paradise on
earth and for good reason — with porcelain white
beaches, shimmering aquamarine waters and an
idyllic way of life; it is hard to conceive of a more
perfect sailing holiday destination. The warm
seas of the Seychelles make this an unparalleled
choice for water sports aficionados and the reefs
of rainbow-coloured fish will enchant divers and
even the most jaded of game fishing enthusiasts
cannot fail to be impressed. A Seychelles yacht
charter is usually concentrated on the inner
islands of the archipelago, all of which are located
close together, making for short passages between
them. These are tidal waters with a range of
approximately one and a half metres. From April
to October there are predictable winds around the
inner islands, the wettest months are December
to February. Year round, winds range from 5–20
knots and temperatures from 28-30 degrees C.
Numerous coral reefs make for challenging sailing
conditions and make a Seychelles bareboat yacht
charter best suited to experienced sailors.
CHARTER COMPANY CONTACTS
ABOVE: Paradise on earth
in the Seychelles.
Sunsail Australia
1800 803 988
www.sunsail.com.au
Dream Yacht Charter
(Queensland Yacht Charters)
1800 075 013
www.yachtcharters.com.au
Mariner Boating Holidays
02 9966 1244 (toll-free outside NSW 1300 131 724
www.marinerboating.com
HOLIDAYING AT HOME
Next month — We profile
Australia’s top holiday
destinations.
Sailing Adventures
sails@intergritytravel.com.au
www.sailingadventures.com.au
Melissa Farley
Melissa is an avid writer and boatie and
sails out of Lake Wellington Yacht Club
in Victoria on her Ultimate 18, Scooch.
She aspires to one day taking her own
keelboat offshore for an extended cruise.
April 2012
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