Testimonials

May 22, 2008

Everything was great and we did enjoy the extensive “toy” collection. Not as common on others, the Walker Bay sailing dinghy (in addition to the ship’s ample tender) is a blast. It sailed well -- I sailed all over the place when Captain Charlie was not giving Sally personal sailing lessons.
I had mentioned on our food preference sheets that we wanted full breakfasts and I love a steak off the grill. Each breakfast was huge, included everything and had fresh baked breads. The steak dinner was embarrassing as they purchased a large steak for each member of the party except me, where they purchased a “monster” steak which, in hindsight was a good idea. I happen to know what such fine meats costs in The Islands so there generosity and hospitality did not go unnoticed. Every meal was well planned, varied and a delight. All this while pleasing our fussy 8 year old which at times meant a different dish for Sally.

I want to be brief but Charlie is a great charter captain who can quickly get a “read” on his guests to insure they get exactly what is needed. Although we did not need any encouragement to use the many toys, at our first stop (Great Harbor, Peter Island), he set everything up, blew up two huge “donuts”, got all paddles and oars ready, and all without being asked. When we discussed it later he said he not only sets everything up in that way, but will go in the water and “play” with them himself just to stimulate a reluctant guest’s interest.
And, yes, the rags were hoisted and we sailed and sailed all over the place. It was a great yacht with a perfect crew and priced well as “two pks” continue to rise in price.
Thanks again Charlie and Patti for a week of The World’s Greatest Vacation!

Ken Hecht, Charter Yacht Broker
Port Yacht Charters, Port Wash, NY

 

June 2, 2007

Dear Charlie and Patti:

We are still talking about our wonderful vacation aboard Islander in the Virgin Islands.  Islander is such a nice, roomy boat and you are gracious and accommodating hosts.  There really was something for everyone on this trip.

Dale was able to talk engines, maintenance and “guy” stuff with Charlie.  I finally had a relaxing vacation without any kitchen duties and the kids voted our Islander trip the “best vacation ever”.  Everything was fabulous-the weather, the food, the company and the experience.

Thanks again for a wonderful time.  All of our expectations were exceeded.  We will see you again!

Dale and Lisa xxxxx

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Elizabeth Smalley
Columbus, OH 43202

August 7, 2007

Hi Patti & Charlie

I am writing to provide a reference for the charter boat The Islander and its exceptional crew, Charlie and Patti.

With friends of ours, we sailed on the Islander in the British Virgin Islands for a week in February 2006.  Our experience was incredible, one of the best vacations we ever had.  The boat was spotless and comfortable, the crew was patient in teaching us about sailing, and every day was planned around our wishes and interests.

Patti provided us with delicious and healthy meals.  Prior to our charter, she went out of her way to learn if we had preferences or dietary issues.  As my husband has Type I diabetes, we were very appreciative of her ability to tailor menus around his needs while providing us with delicious cuisine.

At the end of our cruise, Charlie presented us with a wonderful photographic journal of our week together.  It has been a treasured keepsake of our vacation.

Finally, we found both Charlie and Patti to be delightful people to share a small space for a week of our carefully guarded vacation time!  It was an unexpected pleasure to find the crew of the boat (and their cat BC) to be so congenial and fun!

We have only positive comments about the skills, service, and company of the Islander’s crew.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth (Betsy) Smalley

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May 20, 2006

 Charlie and Patti provided options galore and were attentive to the "enth" degree.  We had an opportunity to work the boat if we wanted and two of us took advantage of Charlie's willingness to help us learn to sail.  He is a consummate boatman and Patti, his first mate, compliments him beautifully. If you are old salts, or if you have never sailed, this is the couple you want to cruise the islands with.  We plan to go back for more!
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   Nancy and Dave Sharp, Arizona, USA

 

Safe and wonderful sailing"  - John Healy, Commander US Coast Guard, E. Moriches, NY

"Great crew, fabulous cruise" - Steven Keegan, previous mayor of Patchogue, E. Moriches, NY

"You were wonderful hosts. From our first meeting you made us feel comfortable and welcomed. It was the best vacation ever and we're looking forward to another one next year. Thanks for everything." - Rick Crain, Bayport, NY

"Gourmet cook is an understatement! The most delicious meals we've ever had... and the presentation was superb! Great crew... beautiful yacht... a time we'll never forget." - Norman and Linda Besener, Shirley, NY

"You showed us that you really enjoy what you do and that your priority is making sure we had good times aboard Islander. And what a great ship Islander is! It seems like Islander was made for what you're doing and you guys were born to do what you do! Thanks for the time of our lives!" - Carmen Barroso, Miami, FL

"We had an amazing time...coolest vacation we ever had! Fun in the sun and great hosts. My brother and I would highly recommend it." - Daniel Parratore, Manhattan, NY

We had so much fun. WE all learned to sail, saw beautiful fish while snorkeling, got great suntans and were certainly well fed! We will be back soon. Thank you for making us feel special." - Tony and Lynn, Harrisonburg, Va

"The time of our lives!!! Many thanks, Charlie and Patti." - Ginny and Vince Saunders, Holbrook, NY

" My favorite memory is seeing the breathtaking sunsets in a tropical paradise. My idea of heaven. We would love to repeat this vacation in the very near future. We'll see you soon, Islander crew." - Jennifer and Alex Kapinsky, Bethpage, NY