Do I need any licenses or certifications?
No. You should certainly include any certifications with your Sailing Resumé, but these are not required (a certificate is needed for bareboat sailing in Palma).

If I do want a skipper or a cook, how do I arrange for that?
You may take along a skipper and/or a cook on your bareboat charter for a reasonable daily fee. You can do as much or as little boathandling as you like. Your Charter Coordinator will arrange everything for you.

You may also want to consider a Luxury Crewed Charter, an all-inclusive vacation. You sail aboard a beautifully-appointed, fully-crewed yacht. You enjoy lavish, gourmet meals and white-glove service. Watersports equipment and SCUBA programs are available on many luxury crewed yachts.

*At many of our bases, to make sure you feel completely comfortable with your yacht, we provide, on advance request, a complimentary "Get Acquainted" skipper to the first anchorage on your base island

Which areas offer easy sailing for first-timers?
The British Virgin Islands are the best choice for first-time sailors or families with small children. You sail in sheltered waters with calm seas and moderate winds. It's a short, easy sail from one anchorage to the next.

Will my children be bored?
Not if they like swimming and playing on the beach. Remember to take time out from sailing to give children a chance to enjoy swimming and snorkeling-there's no greater fun than snorkeling hand-in-hand with your children as they discover turtles and multicolored fish and unusual coral.

I want more experience bluewater sailing. Do you offer one-way charters?
Yes, you can charter one-way between our bases. Between St. Martin and Antigua in the Leeward Islands; and between Martinique and Union Island, Grenadines.

I need to keep in touch with my business at home. How can I do this while I’m sailing?
Bring your cell phone or ask your Charter Coordinator to arrange for one through the local provider. If you plan to bring your own, it must be equipped with a 12-volt adapter (the kind that fits your car's cigarette lighter). Be sure to advise your Charter Coordinator in advance, so we can be sure that the appropriate receptacle is installed on your yacht. Please note that cell phone use is reliable in Tortola and St. Martin. Other sailing areas may not offer service.

Do you provide snorkel gear?
No, most of the Charter Companies in the Caribbean don't provide snorkel gear but one only set for the skipper for safety reasons. Ask your charter coordinator to find out if you can have extra sets for your crew.

What about SCUBA?
SCUBA gear is available through local dive shops throughout the islands. There are dive shops right at most of our base locations. You can arrange for rendezvous dives or dive certification. Your Charter Coordinator will be happy to help.

Can I rent watersports stuff?
Sailboards for all skill levels and one- and two-person kayaks are available for rent at most of our Caribbean bases. Your Charter Coordinator can reserve what you need.

How will my yacht be equipped?
All Sailing Paradise yachts are fully equipped for your sailing vacation. Here’s a list of what you’ll find on board:

Can I do my own provisioning?
Some areas offer better opportunities than others for self-provisioning. Your Charter Coordinator can advise you. We do offer a Starter Kit to make sure you have the basics on hand. And you may order beverages whether or not you order provisioning.

What should I bring with me?
Travel light and pack in soft luggage that can be easily stowed aboard your yacht. We suggest packing a change of clothing, toilet items, and a swimsuit in your carry-on luggage just in case you and your bags are separated en route.

Pack light clothing, bathing suits, and informal clothing for nightlife ashore. You'll need tanning lotion (not oil, which stains the decks and makes them slippery) and a hat for sun protection. We'll send you a Cruising Guide to your sailing area when you book your charter-be sure to take it along.

Your Charter Coordinator can tell you whether your yacht has a cassette or CD player, so you can bring your favorite music. And, of course, remember your camera-and plenty of film, which can be expensive outside of the U.S.

Do I need a passport?
You should carry your passport whenever you travel outside the U.S.

Will you help with airline arrangements?
Our travel agency can help you find flights at the lowest prices available.

I’d like to arrive at the island the night before my charter starts. Are there places to stay?
There are hotels at or near all of our bases. Your Charter Coordinator will make reservations for you.

How do I get to the base from the airport?
We can arrange your transfer from the Airport to the Base. Ask your charter Coordinator for help.

What happens when I arrive at the base?
A Customer Service person will take you aboard your yacht so you can stow your personal gear. If you have ordered provisions and/or beverages, you'll find them stowed and chilled. After you've settled in, you will be given a technical briefing to familiarize you with your yacht above and below decks. We will review your cruising itinerary and resumé, then give you a thorough chart briefing. As soon as your briefings and formalities are dealt with, one of our pilots will help you cast off and be on your way.

What happens if I have a problem with the operation of my yacht or its equipment?
Contact the base immediately, and we will do our best to assist you quickly. We have chase boats at every base and a core of professional service technicians to deal with any problems that might arise

Do I have to start my charter on a certain day of the week?
No. We let you decide which day of the week to begin your charter, to best fit your schedule. Some companies start new charters only on set days at their convenience. But this is your vacation, after all.

How many days make up a “charter week”?
On most of our Bases your charter starts at 6.00 PM on your first day of your charter and end at 10.00 AM on the last day of your charter. We need he in between time to prepare the boat for the next client.

Our Charter Coordinators are happy to answer all of your questions!