There are many bareboat charter companies in the Caribbean with a wide variety of yachts and rates.

Charter rates vary according to the size and age of the boat, and the time of year. The best time to go? The Caribbean sailing season runs from mid-December to mid-July.

The size of your family or group will determine the number of cabins and cockpit space you will need.

To give you a general idea of chartering costs, a monohull sloop with 2 double cabins will range from $2,000 to as high as $5,000 for a typical 7-day cruise. For larger groups (6-12), a catamaran provides more spacious cabins and lots of deck space. These will range from $3,600 to $9,500 for a 7-day cruise.

I will review the available boats and charter rates with you, and work out a plan to meet your expectations and budget. With advanced planning, I can usually arrange discounts of 5% to 35% off the published charter rates.

For the season December 2011 to July 2012, my fee for a 7-day cruise remains unchanged at $2,000 which includes my roundtrip airfare, travel expenses and the following services:

* All arrangements for boat charters
* Making sure the boat is equipped and ready upon your arrival
* Meal planning
* Grocery shopping and re-stocking during the week
* Services of skipper and sailing instructor
* Chef for all meals on board
* Guide to the Islands and anchorages

My fee is lower than hiring a local captain and chef, with the added advantage of not having to provide an extra cabin.

Seniors and Boomers qualify for a special 5% discount (we must stick together).

Contact me...and let's go sailing.

Captain Tom