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Why accept our grey skies and winter winds? The all year-round charter destinations are waiting with the choice of bareboat, flotilla sailing, crewed boats and if you want it sailing instruction. Rates change constantly depending on current booking strength. Bareboat companies fine-tune their websites on pricing and special offers can change on a weekly basis. Prices do rise during holidays but if you can be flexible with your timing, you can often find ways to sail longer and fly cheaper.
The tropics also have a winter season, when the winds blow harder from the north and east. But the sun is more likely to shine and your winter break will bring the fun back into your life. The Windward and Leeward islands, British Virgin Islands, The Grenadines, The Bahamas. The very names will spark your imagination.
Bareboat charter
If you are an experienced yachtsman this is the most popular way to charter. Choose a boat similar in size and type to the one you are familiar with. Or if you fancy swapping from a monohull to a multi you'll love the extra space and the more stable platform. Bareboats in theory come equipped with everything you need. But it is worth checking that the pilotage info is provided to the standards you need. Some skippers like to take their own nav instruments with them and part of the fun is planning your cruise before you leave. Many companies will organise provisions for you or you can sort out your own supplies from the local supermarkets. Nowadays mobile phones are included in the charter so you can call the base office if problems arise. You will be charged extra for what are known as the 'toys' windsurfers, fishing gear etc.
Flotilla sailing
If you are a sociable soul with a family to match, then sailing in company can be fun. The flotilla leader will take you to the best places and the element of adventure will be less. But perhaps you get enough adventure at home so this will be your chance to relax.
Crewed charter
This way you get a skipper and if your budget will stretch, a cook as well. Again you will get local knowledge and the chance to brush-up on your sailing skills if your confidence needs a boost. The boat will need space and provisions to accommodate the crew as well as your party so the costs will be higher. Luxury crewed boats will start in the 40-foot range and the largest reach 100 foot or more. The bookings for this market are through specialised brokers. Expect to be pampered and you can choose whether to take part in the sailing or simply experience the life of the truly rich for a few days at least.
Finding information
This is easy; there are several well known companies in the UK and many more in the USA. Explore the internet and you'll find plenty to choose from. Ask any friends who have chartered recently; there is nothing better than personal recommendation. Several charter companies offer training courses, these are worth finding if you want to add to your seamanship qualifications.
So what do you want for Christmas? How about a holiday instead of all that hearty Christmas cheer it could set you up ready for next year. If I had the time I'd go myself.
