Brian and Pippa of Miramar yacht charter, your hosts skipper and crew for Antigua and Caribbean sailing holiday vacation cruises
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answered some of the most commonly asked questions below. However, if you have a query that is not covered here, please contact us and we will be delighted to respond.
Q: How much luggage do I need?
A: Very little! Sailing in the Caribbean requires little more than shorts, “T” shirts and swimwear. You may wish to pack one outfit suitable for dining ashore, but much of what you think you may require will not get used!
Q: How should I pack?
A: PLEASE no inflexible suitcases! A soft hold all is really all you need and, as there is limited space on board, once unpacked they can be folded and stowed. Travel light!!
Q: What should I bring?
A: Be sure to bring personal toiletries, high factor sunscreen, towels, sunglasses (Polarized recommended), a camera to record the beauty of the Caribbean PLUS your plane tickets and passports! Snorkelling and fishing gear is on board and free for you to use, however if you have fitted snorkelling, or favourite fishing equipment please bring this with you.
Q: What about shoes?
A: We prefer no shoes while on board, and certainly no flip flops, as this tends to be safer and more comfortable in the conditions. Non marking deck shoes on board are fine. The vast majority of people wear flip flops ashore constantly. You may prefer one pair of smarter shoes to go with your dining outfit but no more than that.
Q: What happens if my plane is delayed?
A: Then we shall wait for you! We will ask for your flight details in advance so we can monitor your arrival time. We do ask that you do everything possible to keep us informed in order to avoid a wasted journey for our driver.
Q: What if I feel seasick?
A: If you are concerned about Travel Sickness, we recommend you ask your pharmacy for advice. There are many proprietary brand remedies that are very effective – especially inquire about ‘non-drowsy’ varieties. We will do all we can to make sure everyone on board feels comfortable, and will change sailing plans if necessary.
Q: Can we amend our vacation as we go?
A: Providing conditions and timing permit, you can alter plans at any time if you would prefer to spend more or less time in one location. This is your charter and you call the shots!
Q: What about alcohol?
A: We have no problem with alcohol, there is insufficient space to stock a full bar to cater for all preferences. We ask that you specify your anticipated requirements in advance and we shall source on your behalf. You will be charged for these at cost which is quite low in the Caribbean!
Q: What about smoking?
A: You are welcome to smoke at any time while on deck. Smoking below decks is prohibited.
Q: Where do I find my yacht?
A: You do not need to! You will be met at the airport by our driver who will be displaying our name. He will know where to bring you.
Q: What about immigration formalities?
A: These apply if we leave the coastal waters of our island to sail to another island outside the nation state. In Antigua Barbuda is an exception as it is part of the Antigua nation. Elsewhere your skipper deals with all formalities ashore and you may not go ashore until these are completed. You may need to relax after we arrive and this is the perfect opportunity! We are happy to advise on visa requirements if required.
Q: What about insurance?
A: Miramar Sailing Ltd. is a licensed Antiguan Charter business and is fully insured to operate the cruise you are booking with GB£5,000,000.00 Third Party Liability for “ON yacht” incidents. All incidents that occur “OFF yacht", such as water activities and excursions ashore are not covered and you are recommended to take out Personal Travel Insurance to ensure members of your party are covered for these activities.
Q: How do I book?
A: Simply email or call us. We operate a "1st come, 1st served" booking policy. To secure your booking a 50% deposit is required. Payment can be made by Visa/Mastercard or Wire Transfer. Bank charges will apply. Once payment is cleared we will confirm your booking and all other details by e-mail. Balances are paid not less than 14 days prior to the date of your cruise.
Q: What about Cancellation?
A: By you: A full refund, less a US$200 administration fee, is allowed if the reservation is cancelled in writing not less than 3 months before charter commencement. If the charter is cancelled less than 3 months before charter commencement, a full refund is allowed (less US$200 administration fee) subject to Miramar Sailing rebooking the period reserved. You are strongly advised to invest in travel insurance.
By Miramar Sailing: A full, no hassle, refund of all monies paid to us.
Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: We cannot control the weather and must make decisions accordingly. The Skipper’s decision will be final. Original sailing plans may be upset but you can be sure we shall make the best of it!