What
to Pack for a Sailing Vacation and Other FAQs...
Even
though I usually pack more, I really only need:
5 pairs of shorts
5 T-shirts
3 swimsuits
1 pair
of sandals or reef shoes
1 pair of tennis
shoes
For your 1 dinner ashore:
Ladies: 1 casual sundress
Men:
1 button down shirt & dress shorts
What
kind of luggage should I bring?
Please bring soft sided luggage
or duffel bags. We prefer that you bring carry-on luggage so that there won't be a problem with lost bags. Our space for storing
bags is limited. Hard sided luggage can damage the glossy varnished woodwork and floors. WE LOVE GUESTS WHO KNOW HOW
TO PACK LIGHT!
Do
I need lots of clothes and dressy attire?
No! Remember the old adage — "Bring half of the clothes
and twice the amount of money that you think you'll need!" Pack your bag and if it is uncomfortable for you to carry
it then you've packed way too much! You will need casual wear such as shorts, T-shirts, swimwear, beach cover-ups and shoes
that can get wet with saltwater. A few of the finer restaurants require button-up shirts and slacks for the gentlemen. Rarely
does one need a jacket and tie. "Smart Casual" is the rule of thumb for everyone. Please, no hard sole shoes onboard!
We are barefooted ALL of the time.
Do I need to pack sunscreen?
No, we have plenty of both onboard. If you do bring
your own, please don't use oily or sprain on lotions which can cause the decks to become slippery and stain the yachts' upholstery.
We strongly recommend Coppertone Sport SPF30
Can I bring my CD's and my iPod?
Yes! Feel free to bring any of
your favorite tunes! We have an extensive music & video library, but it is always fun to listen to something new. We can
even hook up your iPod to our stereo system! Also, you will find many books onboard to read while relaxing on deck.
What
about making phone calls from the yacht?
Most stateside cellular phones such as AT&T and Sprint will
roam in the British Virgin Islands. Check with your carrier for roaming charges and availablity for both voice and data.
Where can I check my e-mail?
There are lots of new places
in the British Virgin Islands where you may go online. The rates average $5.00 for 15 minutes!
Does the British
Virgin Islands accept U.S. Currency?
Yes, the BVIs accept U.S. dollars, travelers checks and credit cards in
most places. BUT! ATM
machines and banks are not located on every island. Please bring a sufficient amount of cash for the week. Banking conveniences
in the islands are not as easily available as they are stateside.
Should we dine out?
Yes! Now don't worry. The cuisine on
board for your yacht is excellent and included. Your chef has planned for your every need, your every snack, your every beverage
and certainly, your every meal. (Fact: 32 meals are planned for every eight day/seven night charter.) The reason to dine out
is to explore and enjoy the unique ambiance of the islands. A raucous lunch at Pirates on Norman Island, a quiet dinner ashore in Anegada, or the fun
nightlife after a Foxy's famous Fri/Sat. night barbeques are traditions of the islands and give you a glimpse of the Caribbean that you will cherish.
If you choose to dine out, yes, you pay the bill, but it will be worth it. Most guests find a lunch
and a dinner ashore provide the perfect variation to the week that you will enjoy. You might invite the crew, it
would be a special treat, but it is not expected. The point is that you enjoy the islands and experience first hand the culture,
flavors and people!
Island Etiquette
As they say, "When in Rome..." You will want to
remember that you are visiting a different country. The British Virgin Islands have its own culture and customs that are quite
different from the United States. Sometimes we live in such a hectic world that we forget a few common courtesies. A very
important rule is to remember in islands to greet the locals with a "Good Morning", "Good Afternoon" or
"Good Evening." A smile and a polite greeting may seem very old-fashioned to you, but here it is still very much
a part of everyday life. Try it! You will very likely get a broad smile and perhaps even a new friend! In town, the locals
generally prefer that you wear a cover-up over your bathing suit. T-shirts and shorts are fine, shoes are optional; but bikini
tops are not appropriate.
What other things should I remember?
Bring all your medications. Even some over-the-counter medications that are so easy to find at home are difficult to
locate in the British Virgin Islands. If you are concerned about seasickness, then ask your doctor for a prescription for
the patch. We have found that using nonprescription acupressure wristbands cures most mild cases of discomfort. Three Moons
does carry an extensive first-aid kit. Thankfully, it is rarely if ever needed. Don't forget to bring spare pairs of eyeglasses,
sunglasses, and contact lenses.
And most importantly...Bring
your passport!