Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a crewed charter and a bareboat charter?
A luxury crewed charter is an all inclusive vacation which includes a Captain and Hostess/First Mate. All meals and drinks are included and prepared for you and can be customized to your requirements.
A bareboat charter is a boat you “rent” on which you sail, provision, cook and Captain yourself.
What city or island do I fly to?
When we know your dates and which area you would like to sail, we will tell you where to fly into and out of.
How do I get to the yacht from the airport?
We feel your holiday should begin as soon as you arrive. Our crew will greet you at the airport and arrange on your behalf the fastest, easiest, and least expensive transportation to the yacht.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, as of December 31, 2006, all citizens traveling to the Caribbean must have a valid and current passport.
What do I bring?
Vacationing on a boat is a unique and laid back experience. Since most guests wear bathing suits most days, you will not require much. Storage space is at a premium. No matter what you bring, it will probably still be too much!
Here are some suggestions;
- No hard sided suitcases. Duffle bags or soft sided suitcases only.
- White soled shoes, athletic shoes or deck shoes, unless you plan on going barefoot on the yacht. Sandals/flip flops for the beach, restaurants and bars.
- Numerous bathing suits, as you will live in these
- For dining out, light casual clothes, mostly shorts and button up shirts or sundresses for the ladies. Smart casual is the norm at most fine dining establishments.
- The Caribbean sun is hot. Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and hats.
- Any medications you require.
- Travel size toiletries.
- Your favorite beach towel. A bath towel, wash cloth hand towel and linens will be provided by your crew.
- Camera
- Favorite CD’s & DVD’s. There are many on the yacht available for use but you may have your own favorites.
- Snorkeling equipment will be provided but you may bring your own
- An extra pair of glasses if you wear them
- Passport.
What kind of activities are there to do?
Mustang Sally has two kayaks, snorkel equipment, fishing gear and a learner windsurfer. Use of the equipment is included with your charter. Scuba diving can be arranged for a fee. Other activities are; swimming, hiking, shell collecting, beach combing, treasure hunting, enjoying a cold drink at a beach bar, people watching or relaxing in the hammock doing nothing.
Should I take out travel health insurance?
We suggest everyone have travel health insurance.
What extras are payable on top of the charter fee?
It is customary to leave a 10-20% gratuity for the crew. If your cruise involves other countries you are responsible for any customs and immigrations fees. We generally anchor but if you request to take a mooring ball for the night or a marina dock those charges are your responsibility.
How do I make reservations?
Reservations can be made via phone or email. Our preference is email as we are often out sailing. Once a reservation has been made we will send you a contract to complete. A 50% non refundable deposit is due at booking. The remaining 50% is due 2 weeks before the yacht leaves the dock by travelers check, bank draft or cash.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your charter, the 50% deposit is non refundable unless the yacht is rebooked by another party. If we are able to rebook for the same dates, the deposit will be refunded less a 10% fee. If you need to change your booking dates a fee may be charged.
Does Mustang Sally have air conditioning?
Mustang Sally does not have air conditioning and it is not required when anchored out in the cooling trade winds. Air conditioning requires a generator or engine to run full time and past guests have told us they do not wish to listen to a noisy generator. Each stateroom is equipped with 2 fans and has plenty of ventilation and air flow.
Is Doug a United States Coast Guard Captain?
Doug is a Canadian and, as such, the United States Coast Guard will not issue certificates to anyone other than Americans, even though you may have successfully completed the Captain’s course. Doug does, however, have numerous Canadian certificates and extensive sailing experience, including racing and offshore sailing as referenced in the crew profile. Mustang Sally’s guest’s safety is the crew’s top priority.
What’s the difference between a 44’ catamaran and a 47’ catamaran?
There is not actually much difference. These different sized yachts will generally have the same number of cabins of the same size. Most catamarans between 44’ and 50’ have 4 staterooms. Mustang Sally has 4 staterooms, all the same size, as well as 4 en suite heads, which allows for the utmost privacy for our guests.
What’s the difference between a 44’ catamaran and a mono hull sail boat?
Mustang Sally has the same interior space as a 65’ mono hull sailboat. Catamarans are also more stable sailing and at anchor. Catamarans are also a much faster sailing yacht than a mono hull. If anyone in your group may be prone to sea sickness, catamarans offer a flat and stable motion which severely limits any motion sickness making Mustang Sally the natural choice for comfort and fun for your group.