While the group of islands located just south of Cuba has been prone to serious tropical storms and hurricanes, the destructive 2005-hurricane season, Ivan in particular, almost swept the Cayman Islands off of the map. The Caymans’ notoriety as one of the world's leading offshore financial centres has helped bring the economy back to life.
Since 2005, the Cayman Islands have been experiencing a reconstruction and building real estate boom similar to Grand Bahama Island. This region has become home to a large international base of white-collar investors and professional experts dealing with clientele from around the globe.
The Cayman Islands financial services industry encompasses banking, mutual funds, captive insurance, reinsurance, vessel registration, companies and partnerships, trusts, structured finance and the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange. As of December 2005, just over 70,000 companies were incorporated on the Cayman Islands including 430 banking and trust companies, 720 captive insurance firms and more than 7,000 funds. The government distinguishes between local (or "ordinary" companies), doing business primarily with the local population, and "exempted" companies conducting business primarily with overseas entities.
The Cayman Islands have been recognized as a focal point for offshore finance and their economy is developing at a rapid pace. In addition to finances being protected in the Caymans, assets are also protected. Yachts of any size may be registered in the Cayman Islands.
A luxury yacht has been considered a safe tax haven for many corporations but has also been utilized by many for corporate yacht charters. Anything from corporate seminars, social events, fundraisers to team building trips throughout the Caribbean have originated from vessels registered in the Cayman Islands. While the many governments and groups have been formed to monitor financial laundering regimes in the Cayman Islands, the laws here have provided logical solutions for international commerce that numerous Caribbean economies have benefited from.
The Cayman Islands’ shallow waters may not provide the optimum waters for a conventional Caribbean Yacht Charter but diving yacht charters, fishing yacht charters and several aquatic adventures are welcome. Its proximity to the U.S., just south of Cuba, has made importation for provisioning a breeze.
With past devastating hurricane seasons and the customs law changes for U.S.citizens traveling to the Caribbean Islands and Bahamas the region has taken an economic blow. However the U.S. governments and travel tourism groups are working together to make traveling within the Western Hemisphere as simple and hassle free as possible.
Because of the Cayman Islands international business reputation, and the current real estate boom that is drawing serious American and European investors alike, the local economy has been able to stay afloat as tourism begins to thrive again!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Tipping Do's and Don'ts on a Yacht Charter
While a yacht charter experience is not for the everyday joe, ultimate luxury does come with a price. Gratuity has always been a sore subject when it comes to the yacht charter industry and in most travel operations. For luxury travel vacations, expenses are rarely all inclusive.
For the yacht charter novices who aren’t as familiar with this form of travel there are several inquiries about the customs and routines aboard an opulent vessel. Questions such as when it is appropriate to tip, whether the location of the charter have any relevance or impact on gratuity structure. How do you know which countries and regions should you tip and how much?
The Pros of a Tipping Policy
For yacht charter crews, tips can make up a large portion of their pay. By maintaining this expense as a separate item, the charterer can reward a crew that has done a fabulous job and a crew can feel that if they go the extra mile, they have a chance of getting a bonus for their extra efforts.
Some charterers take advantage of the system. They write copious, glowing notes in the yacht's log book and even on the post charter form they send to when they return home, yet they walk off the boat without leaving a cent. Clients should always be informed of the policy.
A reputable broker will take care to mention the gratuity at the very beginning of the booking process, so that charterers know about this cost when selecting a boat in their price range. When a summary of costs is sent with the contract, for them to look over before they confirm, the gratuity is clearly shown under costs, including a suggested range depending on service received.
Another problem often mentioned by yacht brokers is that the tipping concept can negatively affect sales. Most charterers like the all-inclusive approach and some would rather not bother (or feel awkward) with adding a tip. Some see tipping as an unnecessary and annoying expense. This is particularly true if a yacht charter broker has only brought up the subject after the charter is confirmed. Most brokers are thoroughly reputable, but like any industry, there are a few that twist the rules.
Yacht Charter agents can help the situation by genuinely being up-front with the concept and explaining that crews do many of the things you would normally tip for, from making the beds to serving your meals and entertaining you. Whether a boat could increase bookings by saying a 15% gratuity is included is uncertain - they actually might.
For crews, it is especially difficult, because they are at the mercy of other people. There is nothing worse however, than a crew that drops hints about the tip during the charter. Even mentioning it in an introductory letter to guests, really starts the charter off the wrong way. Providing the charter was booked through an agent or broker, it is better for the crew to ask the broker before the charter if he/she is sure their guests know the yacht charter fee does not include the customary tip. Many crews have no idea how comments on tips can turn off guests, even if said in jest.
So how much should a charterer give? For a Caribbean Yacht Charter, the range is 10 to 20 percent of the charter fee. If the charter fee does not include meals, the tip should be based on just the boat fee. If you felt the crew had done a good job, 15% is a good tip - by giving 10%, you are telling the crew that things were OK but not perfect.
Some ask if the guidelines are the same for owner operators. The answer is yes! Many of these owners work hard to cover the cost of the cruising lifestyle they have chosen and don't have the funds of an absentee owner who might have invested in a boat just for personal vacations. There are of course exceptions - not all absentee owners are wealthy or owner/operators broke, but the same rules apply regarding gratuities!
Checks can be difficult to cash, particularly for a boat cruising in a different area, and every bank charges fees for checks drawn on an overseas account. It is therefore much nicer to give the tip in cash or travelers checks. Leave it in an envelope, perhaps with a nice card or note. Unless you have strong opinions, give just one gratuity, which the crew will divide up between themselves. For enormous charters, where the tip can run well into five figures, it is obviously impractical to use cash and tips are often prepaid or wired to the boat at the end of the charter.
While leaving a five figured tip may seem slightly steep for what you feel is an expensive vacation already, there is no guest service that is even comparable to that provided on aboard a luxury yacht. The majority of crews pander to their guest’s every whim, Stewardesses especially.
As far as the debate as to weather the tip should be autograted into the charter price or left up to the discretion of the charterer has been an issue for discussion but I believe that like most situations in the yachting industry, it comes down to class and reputation.
Charter guests are typically among some of the most affluent individuals in the world. So why shouldn’t world-class service be generously rewarded?
For the yacht charter novices who aren’t as familiar with this form of travel there are several inquiries about the customs and routines aboard an opulent vessel. Questions such as when it is appropriate to tip, whether the location of the charter have any relevance or impact on gratuity structure. How do you know which countries and regions should you tip and how much?
The Pros of a Tipping Policy
For yacht charter crews, tips can make up a large portion of their pay. By maintaining this expense as a separate item, the charterer can reward a crew that has done a fabulous job and a crew can feel that if they go the extra mile, they have a chance of getting a bonus for their extra efforts.
Some charterers take advantage of the system. They write copious, glowing notes in the yacht's log book and even on the post charter form they send to when they return home, yet they walk off the boat without leaving a cent. Clients should always be informed of the policy.
A reputable broker will take care to mention the gratuity at the very beginning of the booking process, so that charterers know about this cost when selecting a boat in their price range. When a summary of costs is sent with the contract, for them to look over before they confirm, the gratuity is clearly shown under costs, including a suggested range depending on service received.
Another problem often mentioned by yacht brokers is that the tipping concept can negatively affect sales. Most charterers like the all-inclusive approach and some would rather not bother (or feel awkward) with adding a tip. Some see tipping as an unnecessary and annoying expense. This is particularly true if a yacht charter broker has only brought up the subject after the charter is confirmed. Most brokers are thoroughly reputable, but like any industry, there are a few that twist the rules.
Yacht Charter agents can help the situation by genuinely being up-front with the concept and explaining that crews do many of the things you would normally tip for, from making the beds to serving your meals and entertaining you. Whether a boat could increase bookings by saying a 15% gratuity is included is uncertain - they actually might.
For crews, it is especially difficult, because they are at the mercy of other people. There is nothing worse however, than a crew that drops hints about the tip during the charter. Even mentioning it in an introductory letter to guests, really starts the charter off the wrong way. Providing the charter was booked through an agent or broker, it is better for the crew to ask the broker before the charter if he/she is sure their guests know the yacht charter fee does not include the customary tip. Many crews have no idea how comments on tips can turn off guests, even if said in jest.
So how much should a charterer give? For a Caribbean Yacht Charter, the range is 10 to 20 percent of the charter fee. If the charter fee does not include meals, the tip should be based on just the boat fee. If you felt the crew had done a good job, 15% is a good tip - by giving 10%, you are telling the crew that things were OK but not perfect.
Some ask if the guidelines are the same for owner operators. The answer is yes! Many of these owners work hard to cover the cost of the cruising lifestyle they have chosen and don't have the funds of an absentee owner who might have invested in a boat just for personal vacations. There are of course exceptions - not all absentee owners are wealthy or owner/operators broke, but the same rules apply regarding gratuities!
Checks can be difficult to cash, particularly for a boat cruising in a different area, and every bank charges fees for checks drawn on an overseas account. It is therefore much nicer to give the tip in cash or travelers checks. Leave it in an envelope, perhaps with a nice card or note. Unless you have strong opinions, give just one gratuity, which the crew will divide up between themselves. For enormous charters, where the tip can run well into five figures, it is obviously impractical to use cash and tips are often prepaid or wired to the boat at the end of the charter.
While leaving a five figured tip may seem slightly steep for what you feel is an expensive vacation already, there is no guest service that is even comparable to that provided on aboard a luxury yacht. The majority of crews pander to their guest’s every whim, Stewardesses especially.
As far as the debate as to weather the tip should be autograted into the charter price or left up to the discretion of the charterer has been an issue for discussion but I believe that like most situations in the yachting industry, it comes down to class and reputation.
Charter guests are typically among some of the most affluent individuals in the world. So why shouldn’t world-class service be generously rewarded?
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Yacht Entry and Clearance Procedures for an Antigua Yacht Charter Keep Caribbean Waters Safe
The rules and regulations of yacht entry differ from port to port around the world. For the yachting capital of the West Indies, Antigua & Barbuda, there are very specific standards and regulations for yacht entry into these high volume ports. Below are several of the clearance regulations for Antigua & Barbuda that are applicable to captains, crew and guests. While many yachties are experts when it comes to touring the Caribbean, staying informed may help their Antigua Yacht Charter run a little smoother.
All yachts and vessels arriving from an overseas port who request entry must fly a yellow ‘Q’ quarantine flag from a high point in the rigging of a sailing yacht or at the bridge of a motor yacht just before they anchor or dock alongside a marina. This ensures officials that members on board are all healthy and fit to enter the island.
All passengers and crew must remain on board until clearance has been obtained. Since crewmembers are included in these rules, only the Captain (skipper) may go ashore to the customs and immigration offices. Captains of vessels arriving after hours must make sure that no one from the vessel goes ashore before they have been cleared at the earliest opportunity. Antigua’s ports anticipate providing 24-hour customs and immigration services in the near future.
As of right now, opening hours of Customs and Immigration offices vary from port to port. Agents and captains may check for opening hours with the Port Authority on CH68 or by contacting the marina directly. Some charter agencies or yacht services will provide an agent on site to handle the clearance procedures. If prior arrangements are made, the agent can clear your vessel before your yacht even arrives.
If you are aboard a Caribbean Yacht Charter and wish to cruise in the waters of Antigua & Barbuda, the captain must check with the local Port Authority for permission to do so. The port officials will issue a Cruising Permit which can range anywhere from $8.00- $20.00 depending on the length of the vessel. This permit will allow the vessel to cruise in all Antigua & Barbuda waters unless a specific area has been prohibited for draft or national security reasons.
Last, all passengers and crew wishing to depart from a vessel that will remain in Antigua & Barbuda’s waters must have a valid airline ticket or proof of exit to another island or country that will accept them without question. This ticket or substantial proof must be presented to the immigration officer before guests may depart from the vessel onto land.
The island’s strict berthing and cruising laws make these Caribbean waters safe to enjoy. While passport and immigration laws continue to change, Caribbean travelers are becoming yacht charter aficionados to maximize the benefits of their travels.
Tips for a Cayman Islands Yacht Charter in the Caribbean
The thriving economy and exotic diving destinations in the Cayman Islands have made this a viable luxury yacht charter location. These islands offer luxury, fun and adventure to international travelers. The information listed below provides you with tips to help your Cayman Islands Yacht Charter run smoothly.
Yacht Entry & Clearance
For passengers planning to charter a yacht to the Cayman Islands, have your charter broker or directly contact an on shore agent and provide them with all of your group’s personal information at least one week before the vessel’s arrival. The on shore agent will make sure that all of the paperwork will be ready when the yacht arrives at port. Quick processing with advanced notice will allow the group to have more time enjoying their vacation.
Currency
For travelers from Europe and the US, the Caymans are affordable but there is an exchange difference in currency. Both the Cayman Island Dollar and the US Dollar are accepted in all locations although the exchange rate is fixed.
.82 = $1.00 USD
Inter- Island Travel
If your vacation is going to be based out of Grand Cayman, consider chartering a plane or helicopter to visit the other Cayman Islands in record time. Have your agent or broker get into contact with Grand Cayman Island Air or Caymanhellis. Depending on your vessel, it may be feasible to have the helicopter pick you up directly from a launch pad on the yacht.
Private Helicopters
Helicopters may be approved by the Cayman Island Civil Aviation Authority to clear in and prepare for guest arrivals and departures.
Provisioning and Supplies
One of the major benefits of traveling aboard a Cayman Islands Yacht Charter . While you are tucked away in an island oasis, the proximity to the United States allows provisioning requests for food and supplies to be fulfilled within less than 24 hours.
Tides
The maximum tidal range in the Cayman Islands during the year is about 18 inches. The seas are notably flat calm for 95% of the year. The serene waters make this Caribbean escape the optimum located for cruising, fishing or skiing from a tender that launches from the luxury yacht. Optimum conditions contribute to an enjoyable yacht charter vacation with less seasickness and the ability to do more activities than in rough waters.
Resources
The Cayman Islands offer numerous benefits to Caribbean Yacht Charter adventurers. If you are looking to book a charter to these islands for the first time, two great resources to utilize for information are the Cayman Islands Tourism Authority Guide as well as Boats Wain’s Beach.
Most yacht charter firms will provide their clients with all of the travel information they need and take care of the details such as provisioning and yacht entry. It is still to the vacationer’s benefit to know more about their destination in order to get the most from their yacht charter experience.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Trying to Find Your Dream Beach: Look No Further Than Tortola
If you are sitting at your desk looking at a computer wallpaper display of a white sandy beach with turquoise waters, it is probable that the paradise you are daydreaming about is located in the Caribbean. One remote location known for its beaches is Tortola Island.
Totorla is one of 60 British Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. While the Caribbean is notorious for its exuberant culture and wild festivities, the beaches of Tortola offer the picture perfect setting to kick back and relax.
There are several forms of travel throughout the islands but no means of transportation does the island justice in comparison to traveling on a sailboat or motor yacht. One of the most appealing vacations is a private Caribbean Yacht Charter.
Although there are at least nine beaches located on this one island each one is truly unique. They come in all shapes and sizes, ideal for a variety of activities but all have one thing in common, crystal blue waters.
If you are looking for a prime anchorage spot to pull up a yacht and play with all of your toys then Cane Garden Bay is the place. It is located off of Tortola’s north shore and its location in the cove blocks most winds. This is a perfect place to go jet skiing, wind surfing, parasailing and snorkeling. It is also comfortable enough to anchor and stay the night.
Apple Bay Beach is an international hot spot for surfing. During the season surfers from around the world travel to this beach just to catch waves. For the sun worshiper, Elizabeth Island is one of Tortola’s widest beaches giving visitors plenty of room to layout or play volleyball and cricket in the sand with spectacular views of the British Virgin Islands.
Exploring aquamarine life along colorful reefs in turquoise waters is best at Smuggler’s Cove. One of the superlative spots for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing this beach is also one of the more challenging to get to. Off shore the terrain is similar to that of an African Safari but aboard a Luxury Yacht Charter you can be flapping your fins along the reef bank just 100’ from the Smuggler’s Cove shore.
The list of magnificent beaches continues with Long Bay Beach, Josiah’s Bay Beach Lambert Bay, Brewer’s Bay to Brandywine Bay. What other exotic destination has so many breathtaking beaches with a variety of vacation activities all on one island? Whether you are looking to bareboat a sail charter or board a crewed motor yacht, cruising Tortola Island in Caribbean is sure to bring you to the beach of your dreams.
To learn more about a Caribbean Yacht Charter go to http://www.eyachtcharter.com/
About: eYachtCharter.com is a full service luxury yacht charter firm with travel and yachting news, resources and a comprehensive directory of sail and motor yachts located in exotic destinations worldwide.
Totorla is one of 60 British Virgin Islands located in the Caribbean. While the Caribbean is notorious for its exuberant culture and wild festivities, the beaches of Tortola offer the picture perfect setting to kick back and relax.
There are several forms of travel throughout the islands but no means of transportation does the island justice in comparison to traveling on a sailboat or motor yacht. One of the most appealing vacations is a private Caribbean Yacht Charter.
Although there are at least nine beaches located on this one island each one is truly unique. They come in all shapes and sizes, ideal for a variety of activities but all have one thing in common, crystal blue waters.
If you are looking for a prime anchorage spot to pull up a yacht and play with all of your toys then Cane Garden Bay is the place. It is located off of Tortola’s north shore and its location in the cove blocks most winds. This is a perfect place to go jet skiing, wind surfing, parasailing and snorkeling. It is also comfortable enough to anchor and stay the night.
Apple Bay Beach is an international hot spot for surfing. During the season surfers from around the world travel to this beach just to catch waves. For the sun worshiper, Elizabeth Island is one of Tortola’s widest beaches giving visitors plenty of room to layout or play volleyball and cricket in the sand with spectacular views of the British Virgin Islands.
Exploring aquamarine life along colorful reefs in turquoise waters is best at Smuggler’s Cove. One of the superlative spots for snorkeling, swimming and relaxing this beach is also one of the more challenging to get to. Off shore the terrain is similar to that of an African Safari but aboard a Luxury Yacht Charter you can be flapping your fins along the reef bank just 100’ from the Smuggler’s Cove shore.
The list of magnificent beaches continues with Long Bay Beach, Josiah’s Bay Beach Lambert Bay, Brewer’s Bay to Brandywine Bay. What other exotic destination has so many breathtaking beaches with a variety of vacation activities all on one island? Whether you are looking to bareboat a sail charter or board a crewed motor yacht, cruising Tortola Island in Caribbean is sure to bring you to the beach of your dreams.
To learn more about a Caribbean Yacht Charter go to http://www.eyachtcharter.com/
About: eYachtCharter.com is a full service luxury yacht charter firm with travel and yachting news, resources and a comprehensive directory of sail and motor yachts located in exotic destinations worldwide.
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