Into the Blue
Wednesday 12 December 2012
Friday 2 November 2012
Experience the best of Greek sailing; right here in Antigua.
Welcome to Akropolis Greek Taverna - right here in Antigua in the heart of the Caribbean.
When people arrive to charter from our base in Antigua, one of the first things they ask (after "Where's the nearest bar?"!) is "Where shall we eat this evening?". There are quite a few places to choose from right here in Jolly Harbour Marina and just a walk from our docks; everything from 2 for 1 Pizza evening at Al Porto with live music, to seafood specials at Melini's and now, a new addition to the dining family - Akropolis Greek Taverna.
It's set in a quirky location without any sea view but that doesn't seem to deter people. It's located literally just across from the Marina entrance on the first floor. Note the Christmas lights (year round, of course!) as you walk along and you've found the restaurant on the balcony. Quirky is probably the word I would use to sum up this dining experience. You are greeted by Marcello who is actually a carpenter/wood expert by trade. He can remember what most guests will drink even before you can utter "chilled Pinot Grigio".
If you are not hugged by owner/chef "Mama Greek" in the first 30 minutes of your arrival, then she is probably in the kitchen creating delicious dishes such as slow-cooked lamb shank or pork souvlaki. But rest assured, she will be out to see you before you head back to the boat- possibly pressing a tub of home made hummus in your hand as a little something for the next day.
You can also just pre-order bits and pieces to take away and have on your cruise. Imagine authentic taramasalata on pitta bread and olives at sunset, overlooking a stunning Antigua sunset! Below is their very garlicky tzatziki dip; perfect accompaniment to rum cocktails, or any cocktails for that matter.
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| Pre-order delicious dips for a healthy sunset party! |
Let us know if you want us to pre-order any dips for you and we'll have them on board for your arrival. Better still, book in to Akropolis for dinner; enjoy two main courses and they will give Horizon Yacht Charters guests a complimentary bottle of sparkly Pinot Grigio. How lovely is that?
A taste of the Greek islands - right here in Antigua!
For pre-orders, email us at info@antiguahorizon.com
www.horizonyachtcharters.com
Wednesday 24 October 2012
Follow the herd; and then sail Antigua & Barbuda
There's something magical about being at an anchorage with just you, a good book and the lapping of the water on the side of the hull. For many, the lure of the beach bars is a thing of the past as they are increasingly finding that a little bit of peace and quiet is good for the soul.
There are so many hidden gems like that when you sail Antigua & Barbuda that it's hard to know where to start. For me, Great Bird Island in the North Sound is a special place. I love watching the birds fishing and the wading birds standing like statues pretending to be invisible to their prey.
For the perfect sailing vacation, a trip around the south west and south east of Antigua should not be missed. Many people are surprised how long it takes to sail along the interesting coastline of Antigua and enjoy the change of pace from cove to cove. For some reason the perception is that Antigua is a much smaller island than it actually is!
A beautiful spot on the east coast of Antigua is Nonsuch Bay and Green Island. Green Island is an uninhabited island that is perfect for a beach lunch. If you have any energy, you could try your hand at kite surfing as you will be on the Atlantic side of the island with great breeze but perfectly protected by the reef.
From Nonsuch Bay, you head out the way you went in and sail north up to Barbuda. Call ahead to Uncle Roddy to make sure he has plenty of fresh lobster to serve you when you arrive. That and a cold beer to stay hydrated!
When you sail Antigua & Barbuda you certainly feel like you are part of something special. You'll be mixing with the locals and learning more about their culture and way of life. I think that's what travel is all about; that and getting away from the herd.
Follow your own herd and sail Antigua & Barbuda. We have a last minute yacht open for a Thanksgiving Week sailing charter so do get in touch.
Horizon Yacht Charters
Email: info@antiguahorizon.com
Tel: +1 (268) 562 4725
Skype: jackieashford1
There are so many hidden gems like that when you sail Antigua & Barbuda that it's hard to know where to start. For me, Great Bird Island in the North Sound is a special place. I love watching the birds fishing and the wading birds standing like statues pretending to be invisible to their prey.
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| Where is everybody? North Sound Antigua and a myriad of offshore island to explore. |
For the perfect sailing vacation, a trip around the south west and south east of Antigua should not be missed. Many people are surprised how long it takes to sail along the interesting coastline of Antigua and enjoy the change of pace from cove to cove. For some reason the perception is that Antigua is a much smaller island than it actually is!
A beautiful spot on the east coast of Antigua is Nonsuch Bay and Green Island. Green Island is an uninhabited island that is perfect for a beach lunch. If you have any energy, you could try your hand at kite surfing as you will be on the Atlantic side of the island with great breeze but perfectly protected by the reef.
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| Nonsuch Bay, east coast of Antigua - home to Green Island |
From Nonsuch Bay, you head out the way you went in and sail north up to Barbuda. Call ahead to Uncle Roddy to make sure he has plenty of fresh lobster to serve you when you arrive. That and a cold beer to stay hydrated!
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| Uncle Roddy preparing delicious lobster lunch |
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| Low Bay, Barbuda - 11 miles of paradise awaits |
When you sail Antigua & Barbuda you certainly feel like you are part of something special. You'll be mixing with the locals and learning more about their culture and way of life. I think that's what travel is all about; that and getting away from the herd.
Follow your own herd and sail Antigua & Barbuda. We have a last minute yacht open for a Thanksgiving Week sailing charter so do get in touch.
Horizon Yacht Charters
Email: info@antiguahorizon.com
Tel: +1 (268) 562 4725
Skype: jackieashford1
Friday 5 October 2012
Sail in the slow lane - turn off the TV and step away from the laptop.
When I first arrived in Antigua back in 2003, we absolutely refused to have a television (I think I'm showing my age by calling it a television as opposed to a TV!). Having spent 30 years working in London the very thought of transferring that lifestyle to an island as beautiful as Antigua in the Caribbean was fairly appalling. Nearly 10 years on, and now the proud owners of a flat screen TV, it pretty much stays off apart from turning on from time to time to get a healthy reminder why we live here; deep in the heart of the Leeward Islands.
It is easy to forget about the real world but it's absolutely crucial to remember for the purpose of understanding what your sailing guests are experiencing day to day. As I sit in our Horizon office in Jolly Harbour Marina, my view is a lush, green palm tree and some pretty tropical flowers. I remember being very excited about moving to a new office in a smart part of London where my view was the back of the company restaurant and the garbage bins!
It's at this time of year that I used to be most miserable back in the UK. I was forever lamenting the end of summer (and the sailing season) and dreading the first Christmas/Holiday advertisements. It almost seemed downhill until Spring-time when boats would be launched and the first daffodils popped through the frosty ground. To be cruising on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day is such a treat and a sure way to make all your shivering friends jealous back home.
The real world is such a hectic place; rushing from kids school to grocery shopping and all stops in between. That's why you need time to recharge your batteries and breathe some fresh air. Sailing the Caribbean - either on a bareboat charter or taking professional crew with you - is the perfect place to do this.
Couple this with some excellent sailing conditions and you have a charter vacation made in heaven.
Typically, from November to April in Antigua, we have breeze of 15 - 20 knots and very little tide to speak of. Sea conditions tend to be around 5 - 7 feet with a long period between waves as opposed to short chop that you might be used to.
A cruising vacation is the perfect way to reward yourself for all of your hard work throughout the year. The island of Antigua is full of delightful bays and coves - just a day or less sail away - that are perfect snorkelling spots and swimming spots (no excuse for not exercising on your trip!). Dinghy ashore and tie up to the nearest palm tree and enjoy a well deserved cocktail as the sun dips.
When you are sailing a group of islands as rich in heritage, people and experiences as you could hope for, there's no need for TV or being attached to the laptop as if your life depended it. You have your very own movie theater right there in front of you. A great shot below shared by a lovely family who have chartered with us each year for as long as I can remember.
It is easy to forget about the real world but it's absolutely crucial to remember for the purpose of understanding what your sailing guests are experiencing day to day. As I sit in our Horizon office in Jolly Harbour Marina, my view is a lush, green palm tree and some pretty tropical flowers. I remember being very excited about moving to a new office in a smart part of London where my view was the back of the company restaurant and the garbage bins!
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| Tropical flowers make a delightful view in the Marina |
It's at this time of year that I used to be most miserable back in the UK. I was forever lamenting the end of summer (and the sailing season) and dreading the first Christmas/Holiday advertisements. It almost seemed downhill until Spring-time when boats would be launched and the first daffodils popped through the frosty ground. To be cruising on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day is such a treat and a sure way to make all your shivering friends jealous back home.
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| Sailing Antigua for Christmas - such a treat |
Couple this with some excellent sailing conditions and you have a charter vacation made in heaven.
Typically, from November to April in Antigua, we have breeze of 15 - 20 knots and very little tide to speak of. Sea conditions tend to be around 5 - 7 feet with a long period between waves as opposed to short chop that you might be used to.
A cruising vacation is the perfect way to reward yourself for all of your hard work throughout the year. The island of Antigua is full of delightful bays and coves - just a day or less sail away - that are perfect snorkelling spots and swimming spots (no excuse for not exercising on your trip!). Dinghy ashore and tie up to the nearest palm tree and enjoy a well deserved cocktail as the sun dips.
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| Antigua offers you the perfect reward for your hard work |
When you are sailing a group of islands as rich in heritage, people and experiences as you could hope for, there's no need for TV or being attached to the laptop as if your life depended it. You have your very own movie theater right there in front of you. A great shot below shared by a lovely family who have chartered with us each year for as long as I can remember.
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| Now showing in Antigua - cruising heaven! |
If you want to experience what's showing at Antigua's natural movie theater, give us a call or email info@antiguahorizon.com.
Wednesday 1 August 2012
Santa undertakes his summer sleigh maintenance for his arrival in Antigua this December!
There's something exciting about heading off to a beautiful, warm climate for the Holidays and, for cruising sailors, there's something very special about spending Christmas and New Year in Antigua. There's such a festive atmosphere around the island at that time; lots of parties, events and, of course, some brilliant sailing! It's the Caribbean island that many liveaboards and long term cruisers gravitate towards at this time as part of their cruising traditions.
Time your trip just right and you will discover Santa arriving by helicopter in Jolly Harbour much to the delight of the screaming kids down below who can barely keep still for the excitement. It was a real pleasure to watch the spectacle last year and I was able to take some photographs as a nice memory.
You will find many events taking place around the island; often involving the local Antiguan school children who have heaps of talent and clearly enjoy performing in front of a crowd.
But it's not just about the parties and the events. It's also great sailing for many bareboat guests who choose to cruise Antigua & Barbuda at this time. At this time of year, you would experience around 15 - 20 knots of breeze and seas of around 5 - 7 feet. Perfect sailing conditions for our fleet of SAILING monohulls and Catamarans from 40 - 50 feet. You will always find a deserted beach (there are 365 in Antigua & Barbuda!) to drop the hook, explore and relax. Santa has chosen his favourite beach already!
For the party sailors, join in the fun at Nelson's Dockyard on Christmas Day. This is where pretty much the whole island congregates in English Harbour to celebrate the festivities. You will find dinghies full of champagne and cold local beer, traditional rum punch stalls and, of course, music and great BBQ.
The New Year celebrations and fireworks are simply brilliant here on Antigua. With all of the mega yachts and super yachts 'dressed' for the occasion, it's a special time to make those sailing resolutions for 2013. Join us this Christmas for a Holiday charter experience like no other. This is where we'll be!
Time your trip just right and you will discover Santa arriving by helicopter in Jolly Harbour much to the delight of the screaming kids down below who can barely keep still for the excitement. It was a real pleasure to watch the spectacle last year and I was able to take some photographs as a nice memory.
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| Sailing and Santa in Antigua |
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| Great performances around Antigua for music lovers |
But it's not just about the parties and the events. It's also great sailing for many bareboat guests who choose to cruise Antigua & Barbuda at this time. At this time of year, you would experience around 15 - 20 knots of breeze and seas of around 5 - 7 feet. Perfect sailing conditions for our fleet of SAILING monohulls and Catamarans from 40 - 50 feet. You will always find a deserted beach (there are 365 in Antigua & Barbuda!) to drop the hook, explore and relax. Santa has chosen his favourite beach already!
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| Darkwood Beach, Antigua - where else for the Holidays? |
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| Celebrate in style in Antigua |
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| Party time at English Harbour |
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| Christmas Day in the Dockyard |
Wednesday 25 July 2012
Life's a sunset... when sailing Antigua
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| Hazy conditions create interesting photographs |
Many of our sailing guests comment that it's like a punctuation mark after a great day of sailing and before the cocktails are made! Now, that's what I call a great sailing vacation! Others say that it's like a new day is coming and there is hope to achieve what you want.
When you sail with us, or take a learn to sail course, it is likely that you will see plenty of sunsets from the west coast anchorages, but you will experience a different angle from the top of Shirley Heights, for example. For those cruisers who are not familiar with Antigua, Shirley Heights is the weekly jump-up overlooking English Harbour and beyond. It's a great tradition here on Antigua and one that should not be missed. Enjoy a brilliant steel band who will play anything from jazz, to modern to classical on their steel pans. The rum punch is not bad either! The trick is to get there before sunset!
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| Sunset from Shirley Heights, Antigua |
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| Sunset from South Beach, Antigua |
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| Special time at sunset, Antigua |
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| View from a guests' charter yacht - happy sailing vacation! |
Last night, we were asked by friends on their charter yacht "Jabberwocky", to take their photograph at sunset. At this time of year, with some Sahara dust in the air and low clouds, you are never quite sure what effect you are going to get.
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| Jabberwocky charter yacht sailing back into harbour |
I think the one thing that sunsets do is to make you appreciate the beauty around you. We are certainly blessed to be able to see so many shapes and colours of sunsets in our back yard. Next time you come bareboat sailing or crewed sailing with us in Antigua, take a pic and we'll compare notes!
Horizon Yacht Charters
info@antiguahorizon.com
Tuesday 24 July 2012
Enjoy crystal clear Caribbean waters this November and December 2012 - you deserve it.
Give yourself something to look forward to this coming November and early December. We are offering 10 nights for the price of 7 on select models at our Antigua & Barbuda charter base. Promotion runs from November 1 to December 16 2012.
This means that you could be sailing for as little as US$3,295 for 10 nights in just a few months time. If a sailing holiday is just what you need right now, then we've just given you the perfect excuse for an escape!
That means three extra chances to enjoy an Antiguan Smile cocktail at your favourite beach-side hangout, 3 times more fun in the water and 3 more chances to enjoy steady trade breezes in these stunning islands less traveled.
Contact us to check yacht availability at info@antiguahorizon.com
Bareboat sailing | Crewed yacht charters | Learn to Sail
This means that you could be sailing for as little as US$3,295 for 10 nights in just a few months time. If a sailing holiday is just what you need right now, then we've just given you the perfect excuse for an escape!
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| Sailing off the west coast of Antigua in the Caribbean |
That means three extra chances to enjoy an Antiguan Smile cocktail at your favourite beach-side hangout, 3 times more fun in the water and 3 more chances to enjoy steady trade breezes in these stunning islands less traveled.
Contact us to check yacht availability at info@antiguahorizon.com
Bareboat sailing | Crewed yacht charters | Learn to Sail
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| Watching the sunset after a day of sailing in Antigua |
Tuesday 29 May 2012
Stay and Sail in Antigua with Horizon for your next charter experience; something for everyone.
Antigua offers the perfect Caribbean island destination for your next Stay & Sail bareboat charter.
We are based in the heart of Jolly Harbour Marina which is a 300-acre marina that boasts two of its own stunning, white-sand beaches and all the facilities you would need for a Stay & Sail vacation; large supermarket, swimming pool, bars and of course, some lovely waterfront restaurants.
There are around 160 waterfront condominiums here in the Marina and most of them have their own finger pier or dock; just perfect for taking a yacht up to around 45 feet.
You can combine some island exploring inland with some of the most perfect Caribbean sailing and cruising. The west coast of Antigua is full of wonderful anchorages that are either great for a lunch or snorkeling stop or even an abundance of overnight anchorages for those nights when staying under the stars aboard your boat is just too tempting.
The waterfront condominiums offer waterfront living with typically 2 doubled bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. What better place to watch the sunset and the pelicans fishing for dinner, right there on your own patio.
Next time you're considering a Stay & Sail package, drop us an email (info@antiguahorizon.com) and we will work with you to plan your whole vacation for you here in Antigua.
We are based in the heart of Jolly Harbour Marina which is a 300-acre marina that boasts two of its own stunning, white-sand beaches and all the facilities you would need for a Stay & Sail vacation; large supermarket, swimming pool, bars and of course, some lovely waterfront restaurants.
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| Waterfront dining - choice of seven restaurants close by |
There are around 160 waterfront condominiums here in the Marina and most of them have their own finger pier or dock; just perfect for taking a yacht up to around 45 feet.
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| Bavaria 42 on a finger pier in Antigua, Jolly Harbour |
You can combine some island exploring inland with some of the most perfect Caribbean sailing and cruising. The west coast of Antigua is full of wonderful anchorages that are either great for a lunch or snorkeling stop or even an abundance of overnight anchorages for those nights when staying under the stars aboard your boat is just too tempting.
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| The perfect sailing area - west coast of Antigua |
The waterfront condominiums offer waterfront living with typically 2 doubled bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. What better place to watch the sunset and the pelicans fishing for dinner, right there on your own patio.
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| Watch an Antiguan sunset from your patio |
Wednesday 23 May 2012
What lies beyond the beach in Antigua & Barbuda?
Antigua & Barbuda has developed such a strong marketing position and earned a reputation for it's stunning beaches (all 365 of them, but who's counting?) that some of our sailing guests forget to explore beyond the beach when they come cruising these Caribbean islands. If you've never sailed these waters, you might want to dip into a brief summary here.
So, what lies beyond?
What I personally love about living and sailing in Antigua is the wildlife and the rich heritage of these Caribbean islands. The wildlife in particular is simply wonderful. I've lost track of the number of pictures of hummingbirds I've taken in 9 years but I think this one below if my favorite. This chap comes along every sunset when I get home in the evening to enjoy some sugar water - a bit like a hummingbird Happy Hour in Antigua! You can buy hummingbird feeders right here in the Marina, so perhaps take one with you next time you are sailing Antigua. You can pick one up with your provisioning when you're at the market here.
When I leave Jolly Harbour Marina to run errands in town, it's always rewarding seeing a farmer galloping along at speed on his preferred mode of transport - the Antiguan donkey. I have a particular fondness for donkey's as a lovely lady I know in Australia used to breed them and had her own sanctuary. We also have a donkey sanctuary right here in Antigua that is definitely worth a visit if you have enough time; especially great if you have kids on your sailing trip and they may not want to sail every day. This picture below was actually taken in Nelson's Dockyard during the Antigua Yacht Charter Show last December. Not sure of the relevance of a donkey at a Boat Show but it added some authenticity to the event! He/She seemed totally ambivalent to the millions of dollars tied up on the dock.
If I photograph hummingbirds like they're going out of fashion, then lizards come a close second in my photograph albums. What I like about lizards is that they eat mosquito's which makes them heroes in my book. When you're sailing the Caribbean - in particular Antigua & Barbuda with its laid back charm - it's nice to step away from the computer, laptop, DVD, iPad and just watch nature at its best. If you're now tempted to explore sailing Antigua & Barbuda, do check our special offers from time to time as we quite often have some great last minute deals.
For my next blog, I'm going to share with you some of my "heritage-rich" photographs that I've taken around Antigua & Barbuda. The heritage experience here is not like the States or the UK that is super polished; here you can be hiking on a trail and stumble upon an old sugar mill, or an old school dating back to 1879.
In Antigua & Barbuda, you don't have to step very far off the beach to enjoy wonderful wildlife and enjoy an experience that is uniquely Antigua. Take a look at some of our sample sailing itineraries right here.
So, what lies beyond?
What I personally love about living and sailing in Antigua is the wildlife and the rich heritage of these Caribbean islands. The wildlife in particular is simply wonderful. I've lost track of the number of pictures of hummingbirds I've taken in 9 years but I think this one below if my favorite. This chap comes along every sunset when I get home in the evening to enjoy some sugar water - a bit like a hummingbird Happy Hour in Antigua! You can buy hummingbird feeders right here in the Marina, so perhaps take one with you next time you are sailing Antigua. You can pick one up with your provisioning when you're at the market here.
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| Hummingbird Happy Hour in Antigua |
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| Happy donkey ambivalent to the mega yachts around him. |
If I photograph hummingbirds like they're going out of fashion, then lizards come a close second in my photograph albums. What I like about lizards is that they eat mosquito's which makes them heroes in my book. When you're sailing the Caribbean - in particular Antigua & Barbuda with its laid back charm - it's nice to step away from the computer, laptop, DVD, iPad and just watch nature at its best. If you're now tempted to explore sailing Antigua & Barbuda, do check our special offers from time to time as we quite often have some great last minute deals.
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| Lizard keeping the mosquito population down in Antigua. |
In Antigua & Barbuda, you don't have to step very far off the beach to enjoy wonderful wildlife and enjoy an experience that is uniquely Antigua. Take a look at some of our sample sailing itineraries right here.
Friday 18 May 2012
Bucking the trend - sailing Antigua & Barbuda
It has been such a busy high season in Antigua that is always comes as a shock when Antigua Sailing Week is over and many of the larger charter and private yachts depart for the States, the UK or to charter in the Med for their summer season.
But the action in Antigua lives on - if you choose to find it.
We tend to attract the more 'independent' traveler or sailor at this time of year; people who like to buck the trend and not sail when everyone else is here! Sailors who love getting to know the island and the people at it's most peaceful time. When we do our charter check-ins and I'm talking about all of our brilliant contacts in Barbuda, they are always impressed that they could go and sit on Aunt So and So's veranda and be served fresh fish with rice and beans; all washed down with 'plenty rum'!
This weekend we have the Fishing Tournament. We went along last year for the weigh-in and there were some pretty impressive fish up there on the scales. The best bit is getting to eat it at one of many fish stands in Nelson's Dockyard.
At this time of year the sun sets much later so you have more time for swimming after a day at your desk. Or if you're on a sailing charter, that's more time to mix those cocktails and enjoy the perfect sundowner.
For many of our guests, they choose to sail in June because they can be at an anchorage with perhaps just one other boat. The shot below is Low Bay in Barbuda but many of the anchorages in Antigua are also this peaceful at this time of year. What a fantastic place to escape to!
Of course, the other benefit of sailing after the busy high season is the pricing. For example, we have our last minute sailing offers now on our website. We're offering 10 nights for the price of 7 in June or 15% off 7 nights minimum. Take a look at our current fleet selection showing the pricing before the special promotion:
http://www.horizonyachtcharters.com/antigua/antigua_fleet.html
For many of our bareboat guests, the sail down to Guadeloupe is a great attraction. In fact, with more time, many of our guests sail further south to Iles de Saintes and even Dominica. Take yourself away from your desk for a while and have a read of our sample itineraries.
As I write this, I am looking at the perfect sailing day through my window - can just about hear the seagulls as they beat the head of the nearest pelican trying to retrieve their well earned fish.... life in Antigua... it is good.
Ready to buck the trend and sail Antigua & Barbuda this Summer? See you here!
Contact us in Antigua
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| The stunning North Sound area of Antigua |
But the action in Antigua lives on - if you choose to find it.
We tend to attract the more 'independent' traveler or sailor at this time of year; people who like to buck the trend and not sail when everyone else is here! Sailors who love getting to know the island and the people at it's most peaceful time. When we do our charter check-ins and I'm talking about all of our brilliant contacts in Barbuda, they are always impressed that they could go and sit on Aunt So and So's veranda and be served fresh fish with rice and beans; all washed down with 'plenty rum'!
This weekend we have the Fishing Tournament. We went along last year for the weigh-in and there were some pretty impressive fish up there on the scales. The best bit is getting to eat it at one of many fish stands in Nelson's Dockyard.
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| One happy fisherman! |
At this time of year the sun sets much later so you have more time for swimming after a day at your desk. Or if you're on a sailing charter, that's more time to mix those cocktails and enjoy the perfect sundowner.
For many of our guests, they choose to sail in June because they can be at an anchorage with perhaps just one other boat. The shot below is Low Bay in Barbuda but many of the anchorages in Antigua are also this peaceful at this time of year. What a fantastic place to escape to!
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| Low Bay in Barbuda - pink sand at sunset |
Of course, the other benefit of sailing after the busy high season is the pricing. For example, we have our last minute sailing offers now on our website. We're offering 10 nights for the price of 7 in June or 15% off 7 nights minimum. Take a look at our current fleet selection showing the pricing before the special promotion:
http://www.horizonyachtcharters.com/antigua/antigua_fleet.html
For many of our bareboat guests, the sail down to Guadeloupe is a great attraction. In fact, with more time, many of our guests sail further south to Iles de Saintes and even Dominica. Take yourself away from your desk for a while and have a read of our sample itineraries.
As I write this, I am looking at the perfect sailing day through my window - can just about hear the seagulls as they beat the head of the nearest pelican trying to retrieve their well earned fish.... life in Antigua... it is good.
Ready to buck the trend and sail Antigua & Barbuda this Summer? See you here!
Contact us in Antigua
Wednesday 8 February 2012
Last minute sailing charters for Antigua holidays and cruising
It's hard to imagine layering on the clothes to keep out the chilly weather. It is easy to be romantic about the snow when you are fortunate enough to live in the Caribbean year-round. The reality though is very different when you're trying to commute, or persuade your dog that actually walking in the snow can be fun!
Many of our guests send us photographs of their snowy scenes when they get home after their sailing holiday and wish they could return. From time to time, we are able to offer last minute charter deals to make that wish a possibility for some. There is also something about Antigua that has sailors coming back time after time. Always one anchorage they didn't get to, or a hike they didn't make.
If you need to feel the sand between your toes and enjoy a healthy dose of Vitamin D, take a look at our newly released, last-minute sailing charters from our base in Antigua. Click here to read about those. Remember that these are bareboat charter prices, you can add a Skipper at US$150 per day.
In a few short weeks, you could be looking at this sunset instead of checking the boiler!
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| Bob and Suzenne Fearn sent us this just last week from the UK |
Many of our guests send us photographs of their snowy scenes when they get home after their sailing holiday and wish they could return. From time to time, we are able to offer last minute charter deals to make that wish a possibility for some. There is also something about Antigua that has sailors coming back time after time. Always one anchorage they didn't get to, or a hike they didn't make.
If you need to feel the sand between your toes and enjoy a healthy dose of Vitamin D, take a look at our newly released, last-minute sailing charters from our base in Antigua. Click here to read about those. Remember that these are bareboat charter prices, you can add a Skipper at US$150 per day.
In a few short weeks, you could be looking at this sunset instead of checking the boiler!
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| Check out the sunsets instead of checking your boiler! |
Friday 20 January 2012
First time sailing charterers with Horizon Yacht Charters in Antigua?
It's always exciting sailing from a new Caribbean island but there's also some apprehension about what will happen when you arrive. "Where will we eat?", "What are the facilities like?", "Is it a good start point for my cruise". Our base in Antigua is a brilliant place to start your cruise!
I thought I'd put together a mini-Guide that highlights what you can expect when you charter with Horizon Yacht Charters in Antigua. Your first night!
Well firstly, we are located at Jolly Harbour Marina on the west coast of Antigua. It's a 300 acre marina surrounded by waterfront Condos and small canals full of privately owned motor boats and sailing yachts. Here's an aerial view of the entire development. Just as an aside, if you stay in one of the 2 bedroom, waterfront condos through JoAnn of "Keeper of the Keys" do book a golf cart because you could be way around on the north side of the Marina and it's a long walk to get back to our office for your check-out.
As you can see from the pic above, there are four distinct docks. Horizon is located on Dock B; second dock from the left on the left hand side. Our fleet is located right there. Our office is located behind Melini's waterfront restaurant. As you depart the taxi, just turn along the covered walkway to the left and our office is just 1 minute walk along on the left.
There are some great places to eat in the Marina; so if you are here for your first night, there is lots of choice. Here's just a selection:
Melini's Restaurant - Italian and International Cuisine - Located at the head of your dock, this well-established restaurant has a wide selection of fish specials, pasta dishes and pizza. Remember you can get everything to go, so if you want to eat on board under the stars, just get the order to go. While you are waiting, enjoy a cocktail at the bar with Barman Romeo; he can make anything! If you buy a drink, you can get wi-fi too.
There are four other restaurants right here in the Marina; Peter's Steak and Seafood BBQ, The Dogwatch Tavern, The Crow's Nest and Al Porto. Al Porto is a short walk around the dock and is located next to Customs office. A great place to enjoy live music on Thursdays, 2 for 1 pizza on Tuesday and complementary desert served to Horizon guests! The Crow's Nest is also open for breakfast from 7.30am and also lunch. They are located alongside the pool.
If you are looking for something a little different; you can try the Greek restaurant just outside of the Marina gate. This is a family run restaurant where the mother cooks in the kitchen (lamb shank, souvlaki, home made hummus) and the son serves at your table. The name is "Akropilis".
If you are want a vacation away from the stove and don't want to cook breakfast the following morning, say hi to Terry in Starfish Coffee Shop and, as an ex-chef in the Royal Airforce, he'll make sure you're full of all yummy things before you set sail. Terry is also good for local knowledge (and gossip) so plan for a large coffee as he likes to chat! Wife available too.
For Happy Hour, try Dogwatch Tavern, Crow's Nest and the West Point Bar in the heart of the Marina. West Point is owned by Dutch George, you'll enjoy a great view of your boat and a cold beer.
Speaking of beer, the local beer is called Carib and Wadadli. I only say this because you can sometimes buy it in a bucket at Dogwatch for a great price.
For those guests with more energy, you can take a walk to Castaway's Bar and Restaurant right on the beach. This bar has a loyal, happy hour crowd and is a great venue for watching the sun set. We took these pics a few weeks ago:
The supermarket "Epicurean" is very large and is located 1 minute walk from our dock. The staff help you with packing and will then bring your cart to the dock with you. Give them EC$5 or US$2 per cart. Epicurean is open from 8am to 8pm every day; fresh baguettes made daily. Ice available at check out. Of course, we offer a full provisioning service so that you can just turn up, check your items, and get on with the business of having a great sailing vacation. Remember that we include a Welcome Starter Kit including a nice bottle of Cavalier Rum... see more of what we include for you here.
There is also a well stocked pharmacy that pretty much sells everything from painkillers to tennis balls. Miss Warner is the charming owner and will help you. Onsite pharmacist most days.
Quin Farara's is the liquor store just behind our office. They sell cigars and also a great selection of rums. They also sell Saki if that tickles your tastebuds!
This should give you a taste of what to expect when you arrive for your charter. For the best views of the Marina, take a look at this great website that has an interactive map of all the stores and places to eat: www.jollyharbourantigua.comwww.jollyharbourantigua.com
If you are chartering with us out of Antigua, and have any questions, please just email us and we'll be delighted to help. info@antiguahorizon.com
I thought I'd put together a mini-Guide that highlights what you can expect when you charter with Horizon Yacht Charters in Antigua. Your first night!
Well firstly, we are located at Jolly Harbour Marina on the west coast of Antigua. It's a 300 acre marina surrounded by waterfront Condos and small canals full of privately owned motor boats and sailing yachts. Here's an aerial view of the entire development. Just as an aside, if you stay in one of the 2 bedroom, waterfront condos through JoAnn of "Keeper of the Keys" do book a golf cart because you could be way around on the north side of the Marina and it's a long walk to get back to our office for your check-out.
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| Jolly Harbour Marina excluding the golf course and pool. |
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| Horizon Yacht Charters has two offices here in the Marina |
There are some great places to eat in the Marina; so if you are here for your first night, there is lots of choice. Here's just a selection:
Melini's Restaurant - Italian and International Cuisine - Located at the head of your dock, this well-established restaurant has a wide selection of fish specials, pasta dishes and pizza. Remember you can get everything to go, so if you want to eat on board under the stars, just get the order to go. While you are waiting, enjoy a cocktail at the bar with Barman Romeo; he can make anything! If you buy a drink, you can get wi-fi too.
 |
| Melini's Restaurant and Bar |
There are four other restaurants right here in the Marina; Peter's Steak and Seafood BBQ, The Dogwatch Tavern, The Crow's Nest and Al Porto. Al Porto is a short walk around the dock and is located next to Customs office. A great place to enjoy live music on Thursdays, 2 for 1 pizza on Tuesday and complementary desert served to Horizon guests! The Crow's Nest is also open for breakfast from 7.30am and also lunch. They are located alongside the pool.
If you are looking for something a little different; you can try the Greek restaurant just outside of the Marina gate. This is a family run restaurant where the mother cooks in the kitchen (lamb shank, souvlaki, home made hummus) and the son serves at your table. The name is "Akropilis".
If you are want a vacation away from the stove and don't want to cook breakfast the following morning, say hi to Terry in Starfish Coffee Shop and, as an ex-chef in the Royal Airforce, he'll make sure you're full of all yummy things before you set sail. Terry is also good for local knowledge (and gossip) so plan for a large coffee as he likes to chat! Wife available too.
For Happy Hour, try Dogwatch Tavern, Crow's Nest and the West Point Bar in the heart of the Marina. West Point is owned by Dutch George, you'll enjoy a great view of your boat and a cold beer.
 |
| West Point Bar |
Speaking of beer, the local beer is called Carib and Wadadli. I only say this because you can sometimes buy it in a bucket at Dogwatch for a great price.
For those guests with more energy, you can take a walk to Castaway's Bar and Restaurant right on the beach. This bar has a loyal, happy hour crowd and is a great venue for watching the sun set. We took these pics a few weeks ago:
 |
| Stunning sunsets from the beach that is 5 minutes away |
The supermarket "Epicurean" is very large and is located 1 minute walk from our dock. The staff help you with packing and will then bring your cart to the dock with you. Give them EC$5 or US$2 per cart. Epicurean is open from 8am to 8pm every day; fresh baguettes made daily. Ice available at check out. Of course, we offer a full provisioning service so that you can just turn up, check your items, and get on with the business of having a great sailing vacation. Remember that we include a Welcome Starter Kit including a nice bottle of Cavalier Rum... see more of what we include for you here.
There is also a well stocked pharmacy that pretty much sells everything from painkillers to tennis balls. Miss Warner is the charming owner and will help you. Onsite pharmacist most days.
Quin Farara's is the liquor store just behind our office. They sell cigars and also a great selection of rums. They also sell Saki if that tickles your tastebuds!
This should give you a taste of what to expect when you arrive for your charter. For the best views of the Marina, take a look at this great website that has an interactive map of all the stores and places to eat: www.jollyharbourantigua.comwww.jollyharbourantigua.com
If you are chartering with us out of Antigua, and have any questions, please just email us and we'll be delighted to help. info@antiguahorizon.com
Thursday 19 January 2012
Horizon Antigua T Shirts - the Holidays are over but the gifts keep coming.
It's always nice to get presents, don't you think; and to have a keepsake from your trip. With the Holidays just over and everyone heading back to work, packing kids off to college or digging your car out of the snow, we'd like to offer a small token of our appreciation to our Captains who will be chartering with us this March. Don't ask us why March, we just picked that month at random!
For every charter start we will be presenting each Captain with a Horizon Antigua T Shirt as a 'thank you' for chartering with us.
We can't promise you sunsets like this when you get home, but we hope the memories that you take with you will keep you warm throughout the Winter months.
Remember for the month of June 2012, we are offering our charter guests a special promotion of 10 nights for the price of 7 nights. Which means you get to see more sunsets! You can keep up to date with sailing offers on our website. Horizon Antigua Special offers
For every charter start we will be presenting each Captain with a Horizon Antigua T Shirt as a 'thank you' for chartering with us.
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| West Coast of Antigua sunset |
Remember for the month of June 2012, we are offering our charter guests a special promotion of 10 nights for the price of 7 nights. Which means you get to see more sunsets! You can keep up to date with sailing offers on our website. Horizon Antigua Special offers
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