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You’re about to embark on one of the best vacations of your life! We want to make sure that you feel comfortable every step of the way. Following are some of the most commonly asked questions about Island Windjammers and our sailing adventures. If there is anything else you'd like to know, please give us a call or email. We’re standing by to lend a hand.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, or new to sailing ships, feel confident that you won’t feel out of place. There’s a natural sense of belonging, from the moment you step aboard and hear a hearty “Welcome"! Before you know it, the Captain gives the order to weigh anchor, and you’re sailing! Laughing dolphins race at the bow… the crew hoists the sails in unison. You take a look around and realize that your shipmates are a mix of young and old, solos and couples. Each and every one sharing this great adventure!
SAILING SOLO? We welcome solo travelers year-round!
Snug Cadet Solo Cabins aboard VELA feature a twin-sized bed, a private “all-in-one” bathroom, and a porthole.
You may also call to reserve a private Standard Cabin as a solo guest for a single-occupancy rate.
Share matching options are not offered.
Private Occupancy / Single Supplement All double occupancy cabins are available for private occupancy on any cruise, by reserving both berths at the published double occupancy rates.
Meals are delicious and plentiful! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on board, as well as afternoon snacks. We make every effort to buy provisions locally. This helps the local economy and brings you the freshest fruits, meats, fish and vegetables available.
Vegetarian and gluten-free diets are available on board; just speak with your chef when you arrive. Vegan, kosher, and other more restrictive diets cannot be accommodated. Anyone with life-threatening food allergies should not sail, as there is always the possibility of cross-contamination in our small galleys.
Please pass the rum.
Beer, red and white table wine, and afternoon rum punch are provided on board. You’re welcome to bring your own spirits on board to mix your favorite drinks. Depending upon availability, we provide cola, diet cola, lemon-lime soft drink, ginger ale and tonic water.
It could be the light breezes, or the moon shining on the water… but there’s something about dining al fresco that makes food taste even more delicious! In the event that mother nature feels the need to shower us with happy tears, our indoor dining saloons accommodate all of our shipmates in one seating.
Diamant, Lyra, and Vela are true sailing vessels. However, we want to make sure that you experience as many beautiful islands as possible on your trip. Since wind and currents often have other ideas, the engine and sails are generally used together. If conditions are right, the captains will take advantage of it to turn the engine off and proceed under sail alone.
Sensitivity to motion is not always based on weather conditions. If you have experienced motion sickness in the past, or you’re not sure how you will adjust, we recommend that you pack your preferred remedy. If you are prone to seasickness, you should take your medication prior to sailing.
There is no internet on board, but there are cyber cafes on some islands. Some restaurants and bars have free wifi. Check with your cell phone provider prior to sailing, to see if you will have coverage while sailing. Adding an international package to your phone plan before you sail may save you money in roaming fees.
From bowsprit to stern, this is your home for the week, so make yourself comfortable. Take a dip from the ship and laze around on a floatie mat. Take a turn at the helm, or simply relax and watch the action. Board games and playing cards are available.
Let us know what you came to enjoy, and we’ll do our best to ensure that you’re a happy sailor.
Bring T-shirts, shorts, a hat, a couple of bathing suits and a sweatshirt or light jacket for cooler evenings on deck. Bare feet are best on wet decks, but do pack a comfortable pair of shoes or sandals for beach days and excursions. Don’t forget sunscreen and a beach towel! Keep all prescription medications with you in your carry on. Cabins on tall sailing ships, while comfortable, are very compact. Extra space is at a premium. Pack light!! Shop for your Island Girl gear before you sail here!
Due to our limited space, you are encouraged to pack lightly and bring soft-sided luggage or a duffel bag. All luggage must be stored in your cabin during your cruise.
Itineraries are flexible, but are always planned so that you’ll have plenty of time to explore each port of call. Sailing time depends on how far you’ll be traveling between islands. Sometimes a long overnight sail takes you to your destination. A few hours’ sail between islands is more typical, and may take place in the early morning, late evening, or anywhere in between!
What’s your pleasure? Did you come for the beaches? Are you a “Type A” personality who’s always on the move? We won’t tell you what to do, but we’ll point you in the right direction! The ship’s launch will take you to shore, and runs on a schedule throughout the day.
We offer complimentary use of snorkel gear for your sailing week. If you have your own mask and snorkel, we encourage you to bring them, as they will probably be the best fit for you. We have plenty of fins, if you’d like to leave yours at home. For those interested in scuba diving, you can make arrangements with local dive shops.
To access your cabin, you will have to go up and down fairly steep stairs. While at anchor, you will need to be able to climb down a stairway and board the dinghy if you wish to go ashore. Also, some beaches are accessed by a “wet landing” in the dinghy. This involves stepping in and out of the dinghy from shallow water. Depending on the swells, this can range from relatively simple to slightly adventurous! As always, our strong and sturdy crew will be there to lend a hand.
Your price includes accommodations for the week, all meals aboard the ship, complimentary soft drinks, locally brewed beer and wine and use of ship’s snorkel gear. Your cruise fare also includes port taxes and government fees.
Tipping is solely at your discretion. If you feel that our crew has done an outstanding job, a tip of $250 per guest, on 6-night sailings is suggested. $500 per person on 12-night sailings, and $600 pp on Lyra's 10-night sailings. You may add the gratuity to your onboard charge account.
We suggest reserving your preferred cabin at least six months in advance, or sooner. With our limited capacity, dates fill up fast.
Passports are required for all travelers. Your passport must be valid at least six months beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.
