Relax, you’ve got this…

One of the great things about booking a crewed luxury catamaran charter to explore the Bahamas is that you can truly relax and enjoy the experience. You don’t have to worry about all the details—our experienced crew will create an unforgettable vacation tailored to your preferences.

If this is your first time chartering a crewed yacht, you probably have many questions, including yacht etiquette and what to pack. We’ve compiled this information to help make planning for your adventure stress-free. You can also download this handy guide that our crew developed.

Packing Do’s and Don’ts

We encourage you to pack light, using soft duffel bags that are easier to store. The best options are swimsuits and casual deck clothes, along with an outfit or two for dining out. A light jacket or windbreaker is also a good idea, just in case. Otherwise, bring only what you need. So, what do you need?

Be Sure To Pack:

• Passports, licenses, and copies of each. If you have prescription medication, make sure it has all details on the bottle, including your name. An under-the-shirt security pouch for documents is also a good idea.
• We provide reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent, but if you bring your own, please ensure that it doesn’t include chemicals that can damage coral reefs.
• Quality sunglasses for eye protection, well-fitted sun hats, and UV shirts for swimming and snorkeling.
• “Dry bags” or Ziploc-style bags for money and electronics.
• Seasickness pills or patches are recommended, especially for the first couple of days.
• Electronic devices. Synergy offers WiFi (speeds can vary), and cell phone reception is typically good.

You Can Leave Behind:

Even seasoned travelers sometimes follow the “just-in-case” method of packing for trips. Resist that urge and stick to the essentials. Here are a few things to leave at home:

• First aid kit. This yacht is more outfitted than any competitor, with an EMT first responder first aid kit, automated external defibrillator (AED), and oxygen all onboard.
• Valuables. There is no need for expensive jewelry or items with significant sentimental value.
• Linens and towels. We’ve got you covered.
• Any shoes other than sandals or comfortable walking shoes.
• Stress and worries.

A Few Things to Remember:

An all-inclusive, crewed charter catamaran adventure is unlike any other vacation. Here are a couple of tips for those who aren’t familiar with this type of trip:

• When you arrive at the yacht, ask the crew’s permission before boarding.
• We ask that you remove your shoes when on board.
• Sandy beaches are a wonderful part of the trip, but please rinse off your feet before returning to the yacht.
• Elysian has ample room for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful surroundings, and keeping the common areas tidy enhances your journey.

Travel Tips

You can easily fly from the U.S. to the USVI from many locations and remain within this safe U.S. Territory. Our yacht can pick you up on St. Thomas after a quick cab ride from the Cyril E. King Airport.

For the BVI, you can fly to Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (EIS), which is the main airport in the British Virgin Islands. The airport is on Beef Island, which is linked to Tortola Island by the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. You can arrange public transportation from the airport to Nanny Cay, which is a 30-minute drive, or we can arrange private transportation to the yacht for an additional fee.

Currency

What currency is used in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas adopted the dollar as its official currency in 1966. ATMs in the PLUS and Cirrus networks are in banks on Nassau/Paradise Island, Grand Bahama Island, and most major Out Islands.

What currency is used in the USVI/BVI?

The currency is the U.S. dollar. Most bars and restaurants accept Mastercard and Visa. As a rule, you should always have some cash with you. For example, you’ll need cash to pay for moorings or to use in some of the smaller bars and restaurants. ATMs are plentiful throughout the islands.