BVI's - One of The Best Cruising Grounds In The World

Imagine an idyllic, sun kissed cruising area, blessed with small uninhabited islands full of quiet anchorages, washed by the cooling Caribbean trade winds. Imagine no more! That area is the British Virgin Islands. The BVI's are one of the foremost cruising grounds in the world, offering short day sails between sheltered anchorages full of colorful marine life.

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a group of island situated between the end of the Caribbean Leeward islands and Puerto Rico. The four main islands of the BVI are Tortola, which hosts the capital Road Town, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. The rest of the archipelago is made up of some 50 or so small islands and Cays. Arrivals are at the Terrance B Lettsome International Airport situated on Beef Island a short drive away from Road Town.

There are many ways of enjoying the BVI's but one of the best is to charter a yacht and explore the many bays and cays that dot these beautiful islands.

One of the longest established Yacht Charter companies in the islands is BVI Charter Yachts Ltd. This company was formed in 1974 and is without a doubt one of the most experienced yacht charterers in the business. They offer for hire a full range of yachts of all sizes, yachts such as large Luxury Power Boats, Catamarans, and Monohulls. There are two types of charter offered by the company these are Bareboat Charter, and Crewed Charter. BVI Yachts is based in the Inner Harbor, Road Town.

The difference between Bareboat charter and Crewed charter is simple. With a Bareboat charter you and your family crew the boat. There are no company employees on the boat. However should difficulties arise a company representative will arrive at your boat in very short order. The distances between the islands are not that great, in fact most of the islands are within a short distance of Road Town. With a Bareboat charter you have to cook all the meals on board and of course keep the boat clean and serviceable. Another alternative to Bareboat is to invite your family and friends for a vacation onboard a Crewed Charter yacht.

With a crewed charter, the crew is there to pamper to your desires. The crew know the area and wind patterns intimately and this knowlege can make the difference between a vacation that is fraught with problems, and one that will live in memory as the best you have ever experienced.

The very basic crewed charter regardless of the type of vessel that is being chartered is one that just has a skipper on board. Often a gourmet chef is hired along to create delicious cuisine complimented with fine wines and spirits. The crew also clean and maintain the boat. They know that the best sundowners can be found in Soopers Hole and where all the best fishing spots can be found. The skipper and crew employed by the company are totally professional in all things. Their brief is to make sure that your charter vacation is the best you have ever had. So the next time you consider a charter holiday contact BVI Charter Yachts via their website for information on your next yacht charter vacation.

Brad Hunter is an avid yachtsmen, globe traveler and founding figure behind http://crewedcharteryachts.com/, a comprehensive online resource devoted to the latest reports, on yachts and charter destinations available that emerge from the world of traveling aboard crewed charter yachts. The British Virgin Islands are one the most popular destinations in the world. BVI yacht charters available for those interested in booking one of the best cruise vacations of their lives.

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5 Largest Motor Yachts in the World

Luxury boats are traditionally the cherry on the top of the cake when it comes to demonstrating prosperity among the rich people around the world. There are thousands of big and luxurious yachts -all offering their owners ultimate comfort and exceptional joy at sea. Among motor yachts there five boats that stand out - their enormous length and luxury is unmatched - they are the longest yachts in the world.

Number one is reserved for Eclipse. This 560 ft (170 m) long mega yacht was completed in 2010 and her proud owner is Roman Abramovich. Needless to say, the yacht offers an exceptional comfort and luxury. Ecipse has two helicopter pads, two swimming pools and can easily host between 60 and 80 guests, not counting the 70-person crew. Something that you don't normally see on a private yacht and makes Eclipse distinct is the submarine on board which can dive up to 160 ft depth. Another unique feature of Eclipse is the missile defense system that ensures the security of everyone on board. Eclipse maximum speed is 25 knots.

Dubai is currently the second largest yacht in the world. She is 524 ft (162m) long and was built in 2006. The owner of this luxury yacht is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum - the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is equipped with a helicopter pad, a spectacular pool, and numerous dining and rest areas. A special aspect is the impressive variety of water sport activities equipment available on board. The yacht can accommodate 70 guests and 40 crew members. Despite of its size, Dubai can cruise with the impressive maximum speed of 26 knots.

Al Said is 508 ft (155 m) long and was completed in 2007. Currently, she is the third largest yacht in the world. Her owner is Qaboos bin Said Al Said - the Sultan of Oman. Al Said impresses not only with its speed - her cruise speed is 22 knots with maximum speed of 25 knots but also with the extraordinary comfort and luxury on all of its 6 decks. This mega yacht can host 65 guests and a quite large crew team of up to 150 people. Among the distinct features of Al Said are its sandy color and the concert room on board which can accommodate a 50-member orchestra.

Prince Abdulaziz is a spectacular 483 ft (147 m) mega yacht. Compared to the other largest yachts in the world, Prince Abdulaziz is quite old - it was built in 1984. She is the largest yacht in the world built in the 20th century and was considered the world's largest yacht for more than two decades. Despite its age and size, the yacht demonstrates a cruising speed of 18 knots and an impressive maximum speed of 22 knots. This luxury yacht is a property of the Saudi Arabia Royal Family.

Al Salamah is currently the fifth largest yacht in the world. She is owned by the Saudi Arabia defense minister - Prince Sultan bin Abdul Aziz. Al Salamah measures 457 feet (139 m) in length and was built in 1999. Among the amenities on board are a movie theater, a spa salon, a library and a fully equipped hospital. The yacht's cruising speed is 17 knots with a maximum speed of 21 knots.

These are the five largest motor yachts in the world as of 2010. Considering the vast expansion and popularity of sailing around the world, we can expect that even bigger and more luxurious yachts will be built in the near future. Most of the mega yachts above 100 feet are built in Germany. Two of the world's most notable ship builders (also German) are Blohm+Voss and Lürssen. If you want to join the circle of the mega yacht owners you have many options - luxury yacht builders will work with you on bringing to life you dream boat - everything about you dream toy can be done to match your taste -from the size and speed to the specific bedroom number on board and special amenities. All you need is just to make sure you put enough cash aside. A good start would be a few million dollars...and the maximum price...the sky is the limit - just like your dreams.

Find out more interesting and fun information about boats, yachts and sailing at http://www.sailingjoy.com/

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Sail Throughout the World With the Best Disney Cruise Specials of Your Own Choice

Disney Cruise Lines now offer new and exciting Disney cruise specials from the ports of Seattle, Los Angeles, New York and other fantastic ports to various cruising destinations of your own choice. You will definitely feel the warmth and hospitality of a world-class recreation on board the Disney Cruise Lines. You will have the chance of exploring fantastic places, taste delightful dishes and experience a whole lot of fun.

You can begin your Disney cruises at the ports of New York where you can set sail to Bahamas on a 3 night to 8 night cruises and have fun in the sand of the famous Walt Disney World Resort, do some exciting stopovers at Nassau and on Disney's very own Private Island the Castaway Cay. Here you will definitely experience exciting tropical adventures and leisure activities such as snorkeling, swimming, kayaking and other fun-filled water sports. From day one your Disney Cruise 2012 itinerary is certainly jam-packed with delightful activities and new adventures that's worth the experience.

Everyone will surely enjoy the cruise since activities for kids and adults are often separated. Disney Cruise Line now offers free childcare at Scuttle's Cove where most kids will have their own fun activities often supervised by Disney's counselors. Here you can find a fantastic water play area giving out fresh water adventures complete with geysers, pop jets and also bubblers. Scheduled activities are also happening at Monstro's Point where kids will find a great whale bone excavation site that will surely delight their sense of adventure.

You may also set sail on a 7 night cruises to Alaska from the ports of Seattle. You will definitely have fun exploring the various ports of call of Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. Tracy Arm is popular for its scenic natural wonders where you can see amazing waterfalls, beautiful glaciers, one of a kind mountaintops and rare wildlife. Exciting adventures are also waiting for you at Skagway. Here guests are given the chance to experience a walking tour on cliffs, tunnels and towering bridges amidst glaciers and untouched waterfalls. Juneau also offers new and exciting adventures for everyone and has also remained as a top tourist destination for its timeless scenic wonders and historical sites.

From the ports of Los Angeles, Disney Cruise Lines also offer guests a special cruise to the wonderful island of Hawaii. In this cruise you can visit its four major islands namely Hilo, Kahului, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and on its way back exciting stopovers is also made at Ensenada, Mexico.

Disney Cruise Lines do offer you plenty of exciting events and fun-filled activities that will surely delight and amaze the entire members of your family. Choose the best Disney Cruise specials that will offer new and exciting adventures that you will remember for the rest of your life.

See also one of the recommended Cruise to Alaska. You can also check out Alaskan Cruises for more information

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2012 Holland America World Cruise

Each year, avid cruisers from across the country eagerly anticipate the day in January when their Holland America world cruise adventure begins in Ft. Lauderdale. Many of the travelers are experiencing the thrill of spending several months cruising and visiting intriguing destinations for the first time, while others return year after year to the Holland America world cruise to embark on a classic and treasured trip that is part of their annual traditions. While many senior "snowbirds" in the country venture to warmer climates for the winter such as Florida or Arizona, these savvy cruisers opt to spend their 112 day winter break exploring new cities, embracing different cultures and enjoying ship life.

Cruise Specialists provides their guests with a magical send-off to their journey by hosting a glamorous Bon Voyage gala and hotel overnight in Ft. Lauderdale the night before the elegant flagship ms Amsterdam sets sail. The gala is a special evening of celebration and reunion as first time world cruisers are welcomed into the group by the Cruise Specialists team, while veteran cruisers are giddy with excitement as they meet up with old friends and travel companions.

Throughout the 2012 Holland America world cruise, Cruise Specialists guests will enjoy the company and guidance of the company's two venerable world cruise escorts, Tom Mullen and Ellen Bethel. Tom has been escorting the Holland America world cruise for 15 years with over 31 total years at sea, and Ellen for 9 years, and both bring an insider's knowledge and perspective on traveling the world by sea. In addition to Cruise Specialists' extras on this sailing such as onboard escorts and commemorative gifts, guests are invited to attend Cruise Specialists hosted cocktail parties, chat times and several complimentary group shore excursions during their voyage.

The 2012 Holland America world cruise itinerary covers major ports in South America, the South Pacific, Australia, Asia, and Europe before returning to Ft. Lauderdale where it all began. Travelers will visit iconic cities like Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Sydney, Australia; Hong Kong, China; Bombay, India; Naples, Italy; and Barcelona, Spain, as well as venture into more exotic lesser-known places such as the Falkland Islands; the Antarctic Sound; the Chilean Fjords; Pago Pago, American Samoa; Komodo Island, Indonesia; and Colombo, Sri Lanka. When a cruiser's feet hits the land, they'll want to take advantage of some of the special shore excursion options available only through Cruise Specialists.

As the ship sails between each of these remarkable ports, vacationers will have plenty of time to enjoy a combination of active and relaxing days on the ms Amsterdam. The ship boasts a culinary art center, Greenhouse spa and salon, Queen's show lounge, a fitness center, and a number of formal and casual restaurants and bars. Whether a person wants to take a yoga class, watch a cooking demonstration, listen to a renowned guest lecturer, or simply read a good book in the library or check their email in the café, they'll have plenty to do before they arrive at their next destination.

All-in-all the 2012 Holland America grand world voyage will be a journey of a lifetime for both seasoned travelers, and those new to a seasonal circumnavigation.

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World Cruises - Top Travelers Vacation Dream List

A cruise around the world tops just about every traveler's vacation dream list and there are good reasons why. You can visit countries and cities you've only dreamed about visiting one day - all on one luxurious cruise ship where you will be pampered, entertained, and enlightened along the way. Each year, Cruise Specialists offers on a variety of premium and luxury cruise lines. You will feel like royalty as professional and experienced staff members stun you with impeccable service, and delightful activities provided on shore and off shore.

There are a number of high quality offered each year, and your travel agent will take all your requirements and specific needs into consideration when recommending a particular cruise line and itinerary. Typical average three months long but you can opt to partake in a specific world cruise segment to enjoy a shortened itinerary of the world cruise. As you make your way around the world visiting captivating cities and ports, you will also enjoy plenty of leisure time on the ship. Many world cruise clients enjoy the tours and adventures they have in each exotic port, but also enjoy quiet time on the ship for relaxing, learning, and socializing.

Here is just a sample of what types of world cruises are available:

Holland America Line Cruises: This particular cruise line is designed to please with their classy elegant ambiance and travel destinations. With spacious and eloquently appointed details inside and outside your cabin, Holland America re-defines luxury and style in a contemporary fashion. You, the much valued customer, are pampered by the polite and well-trained staff with round-the-clock services throughout your world cruise. Rooms with a private verandah are available.

Crystal Cruises: Every Crystal world cruise is designed to suit your personal needs. Crystal Cruises offers a variety of elegant choices in dining, sea and shore activities, and enrichment classes offered onboard that can include yoga, wine tasting, art and bridge.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: One of the Regent cruise ships, the "Seven Seas Voyager," offers all-suite, all balcony staterooms. You can enjoy their annual world cruise in segments, booking only those shortened itineraries that appeal to you.

The author is an experienced cruise consultant with Cruise Specialists, and has written many articles about various cruise lines, such as Crystal Cruises.

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The Biggest Superyachts in the World

As the ultimate symbol of material success, the superyacht has long been the play-toy of the mega rich. Over the years every aspect of the mega yacht has vastly improved, from sheer size to interior design and technological capabilities.

Synonymous with wealth, success and luxury, the realm of superyachts and the luxury marina lifestyle is confined to a select few, including Donald Trump, Roman Abramovich, and King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia.

The Russian billionaire Abramovich in fact owns the largest private yacht in the world, the Eclipse. The vessel is 557 feet long and was built by German company Blohm & Voss in 2009. It is the largest of the three yachts in the top which are in excess of 500 feet.

Power & Motoryacht magazine have been documenting the biggest superyachts since 1985. They track the developments of the industry, and note that when the project began in the mid 80's, there were only around 300 yachts in existence which boasted a length greater than 100 feet. Such a meagre size would never make it into today's top 100 list, whose smallest entry is some 225 feet; the Lady Anne built by Amels in 2006.

A more comprehensive ranking list can be found on Wikipedia, where one can see the prominence of the Middle East in the consumption of such extravagant vessels. Half of the top ten are owned by governments in the region or by individual members of royalty. For example, Sheikh Mohammed, the PM of UAE, owns the 2nd largest yacht, whilst Sultan Qaboos of Oman possesses the Al Said: number 3 in the superyacht rankings.

With the dominance of the Middle and Far East in the Superyacht industry, it is not then surprising to find some of the most luxurious marinas throughout this region. Marinas in Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are fast becoming some of the most attractive on the yachting circuit.

Harvey McEwan writes to offer information and advice on a variety of areas, from technology to holiday destinations. Read through Harvey's other articles here to find out more.

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Top Five Reasons To Go on an Around the World Cruise

There are many reasons as to why around the world cruises are all the rage these days, and why they're perfect ways to spend your precious time. Here are the Top 5 Reasons why you should go on an around the world cruise:

1. Best way to celebrate your honeymoon/wedding anniversary/birthday/retirement or any other milestone or major event in your life.

Nothing is more fun than spending quality time on a beautiful and luxurious cruise ship with your friends, family and/or significant other (or maybe even just by yourself!), taking in the wonderful sights and sounds of the world. Depending on what type of cruise you select, you can relax together, laze away the days on a comfy deck chair, or share once-in-a-lifetime adventures, one after the other.

The same sailing could have you spotting herds of Springbok bounding across African plains one day, and snorkeling in the sparkling Mediterranean soon after. You can be as lazy or as busy as you like; the point is you are sharing it together away from home and all its interruptions.

2. You'll get to see and visit places you've only seen in the movies or on postcards.

From the Buckingham Palace and Guards, to the Eiffel Tower and Louvre museum, to the pyramids at Giza-the world is your playground, and your cruise ship will get you there.

3. Travel hassle-free.

Visiting different countries and cities on an around the world cruise is much more convenient than traveling around the world via flying. Sure a private jet may be comfortable, but the spacious suites and various amenities a cruise ship has to offer is much more enticing. Plus, no jet-lag!

Some people choose to cruise around the world in segments; maybe they have a week available here, another two weeks there...and cruising makes this simple. Pick the segments, or ports of call, where you would like to join or depart, and your travel agent does the rest. You can even store your luggage and it will be waiting for you when you return to your ship. World cruise segments: what could be easier?

4. Comfort.

The most important aspect to be considered when traveling. On a cruise ship you'll have your own bed, own bath, own private space, a vast array of food choices...even housekeeping services!

Upscale ships even have a private butler at your disposal; you are only limited by your budget when it comes to comfort.

5. Memories to last a lifetime.

An around the world cruise is quite long, and a cruise ship is quite big: you'll meet new people, make new friends, see new beautiful places, take pictures...It's quite an experience you'll be sure never to forget!

What are you waiting for? Go book an around the world cruise now!

Aaron Wilde is a travel expert and has seen every continent. He recommends Frank Morgan's free ebook, "101 Cruise Tips". You can download it free at Around the World Cruise. Frank Morgan is CEO of AMT American Express Travel.

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