30 day charter - suggest options?

[xdeeman]

I am considering a 30 day barefoot charter next December 2012 since I can swing the time off work.

I see some of the larger charter companies (footloose, Moorings) offer a discount on a 30 day charter, but wonder if there are other options for a longer 30 day charter.

It's about $10,500 for a 34' mono. I would be thrilled to get a fair price on a Gemini and I'm open as to where to base the carter from.

Can anyone suggest other avenues for chartering aside from Moorings, etc.? and or companies who can offer a value charter for a Gemini?

Thanks!!

Mike

[Charlie]

Wow that is half the cost of a Beneteau 32 I saw for sale either here or on SSCA.

[denverd0n]

I would negotiate aggressively, as my understanding is that the charter business is suffering a slow-down, just like everyone else.

[Ram]

Originally Posted by denverd0n

I would negotiate aggressively, as my understanding is that the charter business is suffering a slow-down, just like everyone else.

not true for everyone- i had my best year ever this year and was booked back to back- so negotiateing too aggressively would not always work

[krafthaus]

Originally Posted by xdeeman

I am considering a 30 day barefoot charter next December 2012 since I can swing the time off work.

Er, you'll be Barefoot on your Bareboat??

[forsailbyowner]

Fl yacht charters out of South Beach Miami and Stock Island Fl treated us right back when I was chartering.

[xdeeman]

Thanks for all the responses. I will check out the chargers in Miami. Still not sure what I will do but thanks!

[Jeannius]

Originally Posted by xdeeman

I am considering a 30 day barefoot charter next December 2012 since I can swing the time off work.

I see some of the larger charter companies (footloose, Moorings) offer a discount on a 30 day charter, but wonder if there are other options for a longer 30 day charter.

It's about $10,500 for a 34' mono. I would be thrilled to get a fair price on a Gemini and I'm open as to where to base the carter from.

Can anyone suggest other avenues for chartering aside from Moorings, etc.? and or companies who can offer a value charter for a Gemini?

Thanks!!

Mike

Seabbatical ( Our Fleet | Seabbatical ) specialise in longer charters around the Caribbean. Have a nice Island Spirit 40 cat starting at $6750 for 28 days low season going up to $11200 for high season.

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by Ram

not true for everyone- i had my best year ever...

Congratulations, but you must realize that you are very much the exception to the rule. Charter companies are NOT having record-breaking years, so negotiating aggressively on charter fees is only prudent.

[btrayfors]

Shopping for the lowest price on a long-term charter may not be the best strategy. It's not the same as shopping for the lowest price on, e.g., an automobile or giant TV set.

Having done a number of long-term charters over the years (3 weeks to 2 months) I would suggest that the most important thing is to get a boat you'll be comfortable with located in an area you'd really like to explore. Even if you get a fantastic price on a fantastic boat located in a not-so-desirable location you'll be cheating yourself and your family/guests.

December is high-season in the Caribbean, so don't look for exceptional bargains. However, you can save money by shopping the reputable companies and getting recommendations from those who've dealt with them recently.

Unless you have a very specific itinerary in mind, I'd focus on the Virgin Islands -- USVI and British -- because there are more boats available and a wider choice of boats, and some of the best sailing/cruising in the world. A 30-day charter would be enough time to explore, e.g., the Spanish Virgins and even St. Martin if you're so inclined and the charter company agrees. If you're not so venturesome, stay in the BVI...there's plenty to see and do and you'll be guaranteed a wonderful time.

Bill

[nautical62]

Some things to consider when comparing:

What's included: fuel, etc.

Insurance?

Cruising range - can you take it where you want to go? What support is offered outside of their covered area?

[mrybas]

xdeeman,
Would you be interested in chartering a 1986 Tashiba 40? I have a seasonal business and do not use the boat during the months of November, December, and beginning of January. I am flexible about location in the Caribbean. Send me a pm if you would like to discuss further.