Caribbean Charter: Hints for Carefree Smooth Sailing

It doesn’t matter if you are in search of peace and quiet or maybe an exotic adventure, a pristine sandy beach to unwind on as well as ultimate spot to snorkel or scuba dive, you’ll find it somewhere the caribbean islands. Additionally you will find exciting activities, unique houses in which to explore, unusual shopping opportunities and an a whole host of dining options, plus loads of friendly and welcoming locals. Each one of these options make the Caribbean an ideal sailing vacation destination. Planning your sailing vacation easy, following are some helpful hints to make sure you have a carefree Caribbean charter experience on whatever island you explore.
Entry and Exit Requirements. Every island within the Caribbean has its own own entry requirements. Most require that you get a valid passport. Effective January 23, 2007, all US citizens soaring to and from the caribbean islands will be needed to have a very valid passport to get the united states of america. By January 1, 2008, US citizens traveling amongst the US as well as having the Caribbean by land or sea (including ferries) is required to current the key US passport. If you are having a sailing vacation with children, special rules may apply. In an effort to prevent international child abduction, almost all of the Caribbean (excluding the BVI) has initiated procedures at entry/exit points. This will include requiring documentary evidence (as a notarized letter) of relationship and permission when it comes to the child’s travel beginning with the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. When you are planning a Caribbean charter do not hold off until last minute to acquire a passport or letters of permission from former spouses.
Sleep Aboards. When the charter base allows it, remember this is a good notion to sleep aboard your sailing vessel the night prior to the big day you depart on your charter. This simply not only allows you opportunity to settle in and get at home with your temporary “home upon the water”, but in addition supplies you with a chance to provision on the evening before. Thus, the very next day, after your chart briefing and onboard vessel review having the charter company, you really are willing to locate a course specifically for your first anchorage instead of waste area of the first encounter shopping for menu. Be supported, however, that its not all boats possess a generator for air cooling and it also may get warm with the dock in the summertime. As a matter of fact, when your vessel lacks a generator, you truly do not want to remain for the dock overnight in mid summer.
Time Zones. All of the Caribbean islands, except Trinidad and Tobago, can be found in the Atlantic Time Zone, which is certainly each day later than Eastern Standard Time. As soon as the US is involved in Daylight Savings Time, the islands never change- so during this time period considering the year time in the Eastern section of the US is identical to island time. You should know that, however, except if you have a very plane to trap at the end of the trip – who really cares what time it has been using your Caribbean charter? You’re in paradise, Mon!
Health Issues. As a whole, traveling to the Caribbean is not going to raise many health issues. You could possibly depend on food being well and hygienically prepared. No specific inoculations will have to enter any one of the Caribbean islands, while it may well be worth making sure you are modern with tetanus protection (every 10 years). Be aware that even on islands with good clinics, you may not be able to find the main medication you get hold of at home. To be safe, bring any prescribed medicine in the original prescription container and make sure you will have enough for the extent of your own Caribbean charter.
Consuming water. Almost all of the water inside the Caribbean is rain water collected in cisterns and than heavily chlorinated. It s always best to avoid drinking faucet water, especially after hurricanes, in the event the water supply could become contaminated. Stick to drinking bottled water throughout your Caribbean Charter.
Currency. A few of currencies is made among the islands. Whatever the official currency, the american dollar is readily accepted among the Caribbean. Additionally, major cards (usually Visa and Master Card – rarely American Express) and traveler’s checks are accepted, especially within the major hotels, restaurants and stores of more developed areas. ATMs accept debit and cards connected to the Cirrus, Plus and Visa networks. In rural areas, it is advisable to carry local currency as few establishments will require cards and ATMs are rare. This is especially true if you’re shopping in local markets and stalls where cash is a must – preferably in small denominations. On French islands, the euro is the preferred currency, whilst in the Dutch islands, the Antilles Florin or Guilder is the preferred currency. You could also observe the Eastern Caribbean dollar in use.