Hi, this is Matt with the Yacht Warriors, the only newsletter that makes sure your provisioning order has no substitutions.

Here's what I have for you today:

• ⚡ A couple of quick news bites
• 🏆 Voyage 590 is awarded the Charter Boat of the Year, but proceed with caution
• 🌴 Charter destination: Key West to the Dry Tortugas

Quick news bites:

• The Virgin Islands are easing travel restrictions with the BVI the latest to drop testing requirements following the USVI’s move to do so in May
• John John Florence, the surfing sailor and US Olympian, has embarked on an adventure with his Gunboat to surf and sail around the world. He’s a great follow, and I’d suggest checking out his short Vela series on youtube​
• If you were chartering in the BVIs this past week, you probably couldn't help but notice the hundreds of boats from the Puerto Rican Navy enjoying their first Christmas in July party in several years

Voyage 590 awarded Charter Boat of the Year

Cruising World magazine just awarded the Voyage 590 the Charter Boat of the Year.

Here's why they did it:

• Excellent sailing performance (yes, it can probably outsail most other charter cats)
• Quiet, tech forward yacht with an electric propulsion option
• Design that promotes luxury and lounge space (gotta love that flybridge)

​Voyage gets high marks from charterers. Some believe they are the top company to charter with in the BVIs.

Perhaps this is do their unique structure. A family-owned company that does it all - they design and manufacture the yachts, market, and operate the BVI charter base.

Two words of caution:

1️⃣ Some claim the electric performance can be hit or miss (but then again, who has done a charter and not had a boat issue of some sort?)

2️⃣ Most of the National Park mooring balls in the BVIs are limited to 55 foot vessels, so if you opt for the Voyage 59, make sure you work that into your plans. You'll need to use the the yellow balls.

Sailing to the Dry Tortugas

Around this time last year, I set off on a bareboat charter from Key West to the Dry Tortugas. We had more than our fair share of challenges, but I'm glad we made the trip.

If you are thinking about adding it to your bucket list, here is why you should do it. And also, a couple reasons why you might want to reconsider.

✅ Explore the history of Fort Jefferson in private after the tourists have left for the day

✅ Great fishing along the sailing route

✅ Easy logistics and provisioning options

⚠️ Limited protected anchorages along the route

⚠️ Variable weather - hot and calm in the summer. Cold fronts to compete with in the fall/winter

⚠️ Lobster trap buoys that you'll need to make frequent course corrections for

I write more about what to expect in this recent post.

Anchorage of the month: Hanalei Bay, Kauai

One of the most spectacular settings, anywhere in the world. I've got a piece about sailing in Hawaii coming up...stay tuned.

If you enjoyed the newsletter, I'd appreciate if you could share it with others who do the boat trip thing! Here's a link you can use. Thanks!!

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