Whether you’re in the planning stages or already booked your adventure, we want to make things as easy as possible. You have questions, we have answers:
If you have questions not covered here, give us a call at 877.772.4549. We’re always standing by to assist!
Pre-Cruise Planning Guide
We want to make it easy for you to plan your sailing adventure. You have questions, we have answers. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know before you book your cruise. From airport codes, to when you need to be there and when to disembark — not that you’re going to want to! Let’s get started!
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
TORTOLA
EIS
ATHENS
GREECE
ATH
LEEWARD ISLANDS
ST. KITTS or ST. LUCIAor ST. MAARTEN
SKBUVFSXM
TURKS & CAICOS
PROVIDENCIALES
PLS
WINDWARD ISLANDS
DOMINICA or GRENADA or ST. VINCENT
DOMGNDSVD
WHEN SHOULD I FLY IN?
Plan to arrive at least one day prior to boarding.
WHAT TIME DO WE BOARD?
Grenada: 12:30 PM
Dominica | Greece | St. Kitts | St. Lucia | St. Maarten | St. Vincent | Tortola: 2:00 PM
Turks and Caicos (Providenciales) - 3:00 PM
Those affected by changes to boarding information will be contacted via email.
HOW DO I GET TO THE SHIP ON BOARDING DAY?
It's a breeze to make your own way to the ship on boarding day! Taxis are readily available at hotels and guest houses. Check here for recommended transfer companies in some ports.
WHAT TIME DO WE LEAVE THE SHIP ON DISEMBARKATION DAY?
All cruises disembark by 10:00 AM.
WHAT’S THE EARLIEST FLIGHT I CAN TAKE WHEN I DISEMBARK?
DOMINICA 10:00 AM
GREECE, ATHENS 12:00 PM
GRENADA 10:00 AM
ST. KITTS 9:30 AM
ST. LUCIA 2:00 PM
ST. MAARTEN 1:00 PM
ST. VINCENT 11:00 AM
TURKS AND CAICOS (PROVIDENCIALES) 9:30 AM
TORTOLA 9:30 AM
CAN YOU RECOMMEND A HOTEL?
From bed and breakfasts to villas and resorts, you’ll find accommodations in a style and price to suit your needs. Take a look at our preferred partners on our hotels page.
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.
I’M READY TO BOOK MY CRUISE. WHAT’S THE NEXT STEP?
Book online or give us a call at 877.772.4549. A non-refundable deposit of $750 pp is required on 6-night sailings, or $1500 pp on premium cabins. The non-refundable deposit on 10 and 12-night sailings is $1500 pp. Balance is due no later than 90 days prior to sailing. Full payment is required if reserving online or within 90 days of sailing.
PASSPORTS REQUIRED
Welcome aboard!
You’re about to embark on the best vacation of your life! We want to make sure that you feel comfortable every step of the way. Take a moment to read this short guide, with answers to the most commonly asked questions. If there is anything else you'd like to know, give us a call or email. We’re standing by to lend a hand!
WHERE IS THE SHIP DOCKED?
DOMINICA To be determined
GREECE Athens Marina, Piraeus, Athens
GRENADA Port Louis Marina, St. George’s
ST. KITTS Timothy Beach Resort, Frigate Bay
ST. LUCIA Rodney Bay Marina, Rodney Bay
ST. MAARTEN Great Bay, Philipsburg
ST. VINCENT Young Island Jetty
TURKS AND CAICOS (PROVIDENCIALES) South Bank Marina, Turks and Caicos (Providenciales)
TORTOLA Village Cay Marina, Road Town
GETTING TO THE SHIP
It's a breeze to make your own way to the ship on boarding day! Taxis are readily available at hotels and guest houses.
HOW CAN I GET TO THE AIRPORT (OR MY POST-CRUISE HOTEL) AFTER MY CRUISE?
Your crew will assist you with arranging post-cruise airport or hotel transfers.
BOARDING TIME
Grenada: 12:30 PM
Dominica | Greece | St. Kitts | St. Lucia | St. Maarten | St. Vincent | Tortola: 2:00 PM
Turks and Caicos (Providenciales) - 3:00 PM
Any changes in boarding information will be included with your final boarding instructions.
If you've experienced motion sickness in the past, or aren't sure how you'll adjust, please bring your preferred remedy with you. Most motion sickness medications aren't effective if taken after you start feeling sick. Play it safe if you're not sure, and take your medication before you set sail!
DO I NEED LOCAL CURRENCY?
NO CASH is accepted on board the ship.
The US dollar is accepted in most Caribbean ports. The Euro is accepted in the Greek Isles and most French Caribbean ports. Small denominations are best.
Visa and MasterCard may be used in most shops and restaurants. Avoid fraud alerts and pesky holds on your credit card by notifying the issuing bank of your intended foreign travel.
TIPS ABOUT TIPPING
Suggested amounts:
DIAMANT + VELA Six-night sailings: $275 per person | Twelve-night sailings: $550 per person
LYRA Six-night sailings: $450 per person | Ten-night sailings $750 per person
Gratuities are payable ONLY by credit card at the end of your cruise. No cash is accepted onboard.
WILL I GET CELL PHONE COVERAGE?
Most cell phone carriers provide international roaming service. Call your provider to ask about international service plans. Your phone will have a signal most of the time.
DO THE SHIPS HAVE WIFI?
WiFi is available on board Lyra only. Internet is often available ashore in restaurants and cafes (all itineraries).
IS THERE A BAR ON BOARD?
You may help yourself to the included beverages at any time. You're welcome to bring your own spirits on board to mix your favorite drinks. Pick it up at the duty free on your way down, or at a local market before you board.
DO YOU PROVIDE MIXERS?
Depending upon availability, we provide Cola, Diet Cola, Sprite, Ginger Ale and Tonic Water.
MUSIC TO YOUR EARS… AND OURS TOO
Can you play the kazoo? Have you mastered the art of strumming the guitar on your front porch swing? If you’re wildly entertaining, or mildly talented, bring your instrument along for the ride. Some guests enjoy center stage, while others just like to watch.
While we’re on the subject, bring your playlist, and take your turn at the dock. See what we did there? He-he.
DO YOU OFFER TOURS?
Greek Isles
Your crew will explain the wonders of each island prior to your arrival, and may be able to assist if you wish to plan a special activity.
Windwards and Turks & Caicos
These islands are small, beautiful, and far from the crowds. Island tours in some ports of call can be arranged with local taxi drivers, or your crew. The main activities are swimming, snorkeling, strolling around local villages, and....relaxing!
The British Virgins | Leewards | French West Indies
These Islands are larger, more populated, and have a wider variety of activities and things to do. Your Guest Liaison will review things you can do on your own, as well as any available optional extra excursions.
OF BEACH DAYS AND BEACH SIPS
Please do not bring beverages ashore from the ship, as local vendors earn their livelihood selling drinks and renting chairs in some ports of call. When permissible, the crew will bring a beverage cooler to the beach for your enjoyment.
HOW ABOUT SNORKELING AND SCUBA?
Snorkel gear is available onboard at no cost. If you are interested in scuba diving, research diving opportunities prior to sailing, and make arrangements while on board.
LOOK SUNSATIONAL
The sun can be your best friend and give you a big dose of vitamin D — or your worst enemy. We strongly suggest using a high SPF sunscreen, and applying it often. We want you to look like you’ve been frolicking in paradise, not bathing in a cauldron of hot water. While we’re on the subject of encouraging… avoid insect bites by using insect repellent anytime you are outside. Apply after sunscreen.
ISLAND STYLE
Dress on board is casual. Ladies and gents planning to dine ashore may want to pack a sundress or a pair of trousers. Bath towels are provided, as are hair dryers, shampoo, and body wash.
Cabins have A/C and 110V electric outlets. There are 220V electric outlets aboard Lyra. CPAP machines are okay to bring if you require one. Pack light. Cabin storage space is limited. Did we say pack light? Why yes, yes we did.
SAMPLE PACKING LIST
- Swimsuit (2)
- T-Shirts & Shorts
- Sundress/Trousers
- Light Jacket/Sweatshirt
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses / Reading Glasses
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Beach Towel
- Re-usable water bottle
- Personal Toiletries
- Personal Medication (pack in carry-on)
- Suntan Lotion / Sunscreen
- Camera
- Insect Repellent / Towelettes
- Mask & Snorkel if you prefer your own
- Water Shoes
Island Windjammers Trading Co. Check out our limited-edition ship logo shirts, hibiscus ball caps, and beach towels. Click here to shop.
DON’T FORGET YOUR BOARDING INSTRUCTIONS, RETURN FLIGHT
INFORMATION, AND PASSPORTS. KEEP THEM IN YOUR HAND LUGGAGE,
ALONG WITH YOUR MEDICATION.
Travel delays and emergency contact:
877.772.4549
SEE YOU ON DECK!
Shore Leave!
Even sailors need a little shore time!
Our home ports offer accommodations in styles and prices to suit your needs, from bed and breakfasts to villas and resorts. Browse online, or check out some of our guest favorites, featured here.
Any Athens area hotel which fits your budget and desired location will be fine. Athens has too many hotels to narrow down the selection!
Sea Glass Place, St. Georges
Grand Anse beachfront
Four fully equipped apartments, include private verandas and kitchenettes. Kayaks, paddleboards, and a bounty of sea glass.
Secluded private beach. Welcoming. Minimum two-night stay.
www.seaglassplace.com
Info@seaglassplace.com
473.439.9488
Allamanda Beach Resort, St. Georges
Grand Anse beachfront
Five-minute walk to shops and restaurants.
Clean. Comfortable. Affordable.
www.allamandaresort.com
stay@allamandaresort.com
473.444.0095
Radisson Grenada Beach Resort, St. Georges
Grand Anse beach front
Resort highlights include a 300-foot free form swimming pool with swim-up bar and cascading waterfall.
24-hour room service. Fitness center. Full service.
www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-resort-grenada-beach
rhi_grgr@radissonamericas.com
473-444-4371
True Blue Bay Boutique Resort, St. Georges
Perfect pick if you’re looking for a spot near the airport. Located on a beautiful bay.
Chic. Convenient. Amenities.
www.truebluebay.com
reservations@truebluebay.com
473.443.8783
Bay Gardens Beach Resort and Spa, Rodney Bay
Choose from a garden, pool, or beach front room. Restaurants, fitness center, spa, yoga, lagoon-style swimming pool, beach water park. All-inclusive packages available.
www.baygardensresorts.com
Info@baygardensresorts.com
758.457.8514
Timothy Beach Resort, Frigate Bay
Ocean or mountain view rooms. Saltwater pool, Sunset Café restaurant and Dock Bar.
Friendly. Affordable. Nightlife.
www.timothybeach.com
info@timothybeach.com
888.229.2747
Marriott’s St. Kitts Beach Club, Frigate Bay
Beach front resort on twenty-six acres features a championship golf course. Spacious villas with full kitchens.
Oceanfront. Suites. Golf.
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/skbkt-marriotts-st-kitts-beach-club/
869.466.1500
Holland House, Philipsburg
Great Bay Beach
Crisp, modern, updated rooms and suites feature private balconies and full amenities. Steps away from shopping, restaurants, and casinos.
Hip. Central. Beachfront.
www.hhbh.com
Reservations@hollandhousehotel.com
800.370.1329
Pasanggrahan Boutique Hotel, Philipsburg
Step back in time at this colonial style beachfront guesthouse. Centrally located. Choose a quaint room with mountain views or a luxurious oceanfront suite.
Timeless. Welcoming. Quaint.
www.pasanhotel.net
Info@pasanhotel.net
721.542.3588
Seaview Beach Hotel, Philipsburg
Conveniently located, beautifully updated, vintage beachfront property. Features a pool, onsite food/liquor store, trendy bar, and restaurant.
Budget friendly. Convenient. Pool.
www.seaviewbeachhotelstmaarten.com
Booking@seaviewsxm.com
721.542.2323 or 721.542.2324
Beachcombers Hotel, Arnos Vale
A quaint family-operated boutique hotel on Villa Beach, located a very short cab ride from Young Island Jetty, where you'll meet your crew on boarding day.
www.beachcombershotel.com
784.458.4283
Maria’s by the Sea Hotel, Road Town
Centrally located-you won’t miss any of the action. Minutes away from most local attractions. Choose Maria’s for the comfy updated rooms and proximity to the airport and ferry docks.
Central. Updated. Modern.
www.mariasbythesea.com
Info@mariasbythesea.com
284.494.2595
Sebastian’s on the Beach, Apple Bay
Choose a suite high up on a cliff with sweeping bay views. Garden or beachfront rooms are fully equipped and steps away from the warm Caribbean. Fabulous restaurant on premises.
Tropical. Views. Surfing.
www.sebastiansbvi.com
Info@sebastiansbvi.com
284.495.4212
Ports of Call Resort, Grace Bay
Located in the heart of Grace Bay. Surrounded by restaurants, shopping, and casinos. Recently renovated, competitive rates.
Recently renovated. Centrally located.
portsofcallresort.com
reservations@portsofcallresort.com
888.678.3483
The Sands at Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Centrally located on pristine Grace Bay Beach, the Sands at Grace Bay features beautifully appointed rooms, lush landscaping, swimming pools, and a restaurant on premises.
Central. Beachfront. All suite.
www.thesandstc.com/
info@thesandstc.com
877.777.2637
Sibonne Beach Hotel, Grace Bay
Choose from a private balcony, private terrace, or lovely garden view. Restaurant on premises. Located on the beautiful white sands of Grace Bay beach.
Ocean View. Gardens. Restaurant.
www.sibonne.com
reservations@sibonne.com
888.570.2861
Pre and Post Cruise Transfers
Getting around the islands is a breeze. Taxis are readily available at airports and hotels in all of our ports of call.
You may prearrange arrival airport-to-hotel transfers, and hotel-to-ship transfers on boarding day, in Grenada or St. Lucia using our known drivers.
Your crew can assist with arranging post-cruise airport or hotel transfers in all ports.
Airport, hotel, and marina transfers
Email: themiscar@gmail.com
Phone: +30 6942 575 733
Kerry Cyrus, aka Foxy
Airport Transfers, hotel to ship transfers, and island tours
Email: kerryjcyrus@hotmail.com
Cell/WhatsApp: 473.409.4473
The Other Tour St Lucia
Airport transfers, hotel to ship transfers, and boutique island tours
Website: theothertourstlucia.com
Email: theothertour.stlucia@gmail.com
758.717.5322
Use promo code IWJ10 when booking your transfer online, and receive a 10% discount
Charlie Tango Taxi Service
Email: charlietangotaxiservice@hotmail.com
Virgil’s Taxi Service
Email: hughlou@tcieay.tc
WhatsApp with Mrs Velma Virgil: +1 649.231.6060
Island Windjammers Boarding Instructions
Passport and Flight Documents
Please carry your cruise confirmation, your passport, and proof of return flight. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.
Your passport serves as your boarding pass.
BOARDING INSTRUCTIONS
Early boarding is not permitted.
GREECE, ATHENS
Boarding time 2 PM. Lyra will be docked in Athens Marina, about 20 minutes from central Athens. Please consider using Themis Taxi Services for your marina transfer, as Themis and his staff will know exactly where Lyra is berthed. There are no restaurant or cafe services at the marina. Please don't plan to arrive too early.
GRENADA
Your meeting place is the Knife and Fork Cafe in Port Louis Marina. Please leave your luggage outside the cafe, as space is limited. You’ll be met by a crew member at 12:30PM, and accompanied to the ship.
ST. KITTS
Your meeting place is the outside deck of Sunset Cafe, located at Timothy's Beach Resort. You’ll be met there by a crew member at 2PM, and accompanied to the ship.
ST. LUCIA
Your meeting place is Café Ole /Boardwalk Bar located at Rodney Bay Marina. You'll be met there by a crew member at 2PM, and accompanied to the ship.
ST. MAARTEN
Your meeting place is the Greenhouse Restaurant located in Philipsburg (not Simpson Bay). You'll be met there by a crew member at 2PM, and accompanied to the ship.
ST. VINCENT
Your crew will meet you at Young Island Jetty at 2 PM. Mangoz Restaurant near the jetty is open on Sundays.
TURKS AND CAICOS (PROVIDENCIALES)
Your meeting place is South Bank Marina located at 1 Long Bay Highway at 3 PM. The marina restaurant is closed on Sunday. For your comfort, we suggest arriving as close to boarding time as possible.
TORTOLA
Your meeting place is the restaurant at Village Cay Marina in Road Town. You'll be met there by a crew member at 2PM, and accompanied to the ship.
Disembarkation in all Ports of Call:
Disembarkation is no later than 10 AM
FLIGHTS HOME
The following is the earliest recommended departure flight time for each port:
GREECE 12:00 PM
GRENADA 10:00 AM
ST. KITTS 9:30 AM
ST. LUCIA 2:00 PM
ST. MAARTEN 1:00 PM
ST. VINCENT 11:00 AM
TURKS AND CAICOS (PROVIDENCIALES) 9:30 AM
TORTOLA 9:30 AM
