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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Greg Thornton
Yacht: Footloose Beneteau 44.3 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 1/8/12 - 1/11/12
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
yes
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
yes
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
no
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
you guys facilitated a chareter that we were not able to find on our own.. We had a rookie or two on board that was tnot really certain that they wanted to do thi spart of our adventure. You guys made the shart stay possible plus hooked us upith an organization that I wouls use again (through you, of course)!
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Andrew Squires
Yacht: Footloose 352 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 12/30/11-1/6/12
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
YES
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
clean yes but needed maintenance
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
ok
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
YES
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
yes
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No - everything went well
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
broke an intermediary stay ( spreader bar to mast stay) on first day out in moderate wind.
Brought boat back in New Years day and got different boat . Exchange went well.
Dingy pullcord snapped and this was also fixed. Overall everything went very well - there is nothing that you could have done better, very happy. :-)
Maybe get some of your own mooring bouys in some of the more favorite achorages for your boats??? Just a thought . I don't use them - prefer to anchor in more secluded spots but many people frustrated because could not get a mooring spot.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Jim Haskins
Yacht: Beneteau 352 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: Jim Haskins
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, but we did have some mechanical issues. Footloose responded quicklyMel
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No, you guys did a great job.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Melody did a fantastic job of finding the right boat at the right time and right location for us. Thank you for arranging the perfect start for the New Year.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Christian Wetzel
Yacht: Beneteau 32.2 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 12/26/11 - 1/2/12
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
yes, for the very most part
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
superbly clean, yet over time several technical deficiencies became apparent
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
both in excellent condition, yet refrigerator cooling was insufficient.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
ventilation was excellent, there was enough wind this time of year
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
staff did a very good job on that part, yet a boat handbook and simple tools would have been most welcome
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
definitely an excellent area
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
one has to work through ALL the written material you provided to find actionable items amongst add-on clutter. I recommend an entire rewrite by priorities.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
It would have been helpful to be able to provide a list of specific yacht deficiencies to the charter company without being held responsible for them. For the most part those deficiencies cannot be identified in the formal pass-down process, yet might become your resaponsibility afterwards.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Per Lindner
Yacht: Beneteau 44.3 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 12/18/11 - 12/25/11 with a sleep aboard 12/17/11
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Very friendly
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
It was clean The mainsail needed maintenance(stitching)
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Fantastic
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No it was excellent to get the cruising guide mailed in advance
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Phil Lindgren
Yacht: Beneteau 352 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 7/29/11 - 8/3/11 with a sleep aboard 7/28/11
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
THe staff was great.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Exceed expectations
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes they did a great job
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Great
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
Yes
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Everything worked out great... pre, during and post trip. We had a bit of a mechanical problem with our boat (bad starter motor), and the people at Foot Loose fixed quickly without a hitch. Great trip, and happy times.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Ms. Sheryl Huynh
Yacht: Footloose 473 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/17/11 - 6/24/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes. It took a bit for the receptionists to warm up to you, but Winston (who did my chart briefing) was wonderful to work with.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes it was clean. However, we had quite a few minor issues with equipment - freezer was low on freon (fixed); refridgerator wouldn't get cold enough; anchor light was not working; speedometer, fuel and water gauge were all not working; finally the halyard, reef 1, reef 2 cam cleats had a tendency to stick and not release the lines. With the exception of the freezer, we did not discover any of the other issues until we were far along under way.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes - wind scoops are key - but make sure you secure them as we lost one in a huge gust of wind in the middle of the night.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes - loved it. Just wished there were fewer mosquitos and sand fleas.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No - you guys were wonderful to work with.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
For summer time, definitely opt for AC if you can afford it.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Lon Golnick
Yacht: Footloose 4300 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/11/11-6/18/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes, very much so.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, except for water in the cupboard from a leaky front hatch, and water in a salon bench from AC condensation.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes, except for dish drying towels, and we had to request two more sets of dishes and flatware so 12 of us could eat together.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes, and the aft starboard head often smelled even though we pumped the head, and the forward starboard head leaked a bit.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
We would say more of an average job, but we appreciated their trust in us.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes, very much so, and our sailing went exactly according to plan (except we had to buy lots of ice and drinking water).
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
Not that we can see; everything was taken care of and all of our questions were answered immediately.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
We loved it, and the whole family said they'd love to go again.
Thank you for all of your support in making a dream come true.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Richard Rowe
Yacht: Footloose 44.3 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/9/11-6/16/11 with a sleepaboard 6/8/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes - very helpful and friendly
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes - better than might have been expected. The speed display did not work and there were no tell-tales on the sails - but minor issues. Also the battens on the mains kept jamming in the lazy jack furling system, making it not such an easy system for hoisting or lowering the main.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes - no issues. We used the bbq a lot
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
We were provided with air scoops to increase ventilation. Occasionally it might have been useful to have side flaps to the bimini to block out low sun; but the large Bimini was useful. I was surprised there were no rain guards around the side portholes, so water poured in on the rare rainy event
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Generally very helpful. The chart briefing was good but only verbal; it would have been good to tie it in with the Cruising Guide or other handout for later reference. There was a good quality gps on board but we were given little briefing "since we would not need it". Although this is line-of-sight coastal crusing, it is good to have some directional, distance and speed indication; I ended up using my own hand-held gps which seemed a shame when such a large gps was available.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
It is beautiful; and we discovered even more places to visit and snorkel. We have sailed BVI in June before; and it was noticeably busier despite being low season. Most other yachts were very courteous but there were a few cowboys (including local speedboat operators) who raced for mooring buoys ignoring the safety and pleasure of others; so we had to be extra cautious when snorkeling with our kids. I would hate to think what peak season is like.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
I was pleased to use your service with a range of yachts over several cruising areas. We are interested in trying other cruising areas such as Belize, Bahamas or even Mediteranean; but have little knowledge of where to find out issues such as general sea swell, weather conditions, ease of mooring / anchoring and associated costs. The VI Crusing guide provided by you was invaluable as a "pilot" guide of where to go
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Overal a great vacation in a beautiful area; loads of activity for the kids and some chance to relax for parents. We had a fabulous time on an easy to use yacht in an easy crusing area and it all went very smoothly without any irritating glitches.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Tommy McKinnon
Yacht: Footloose 4000 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/9/11-6/14/11 with a sleepaboard June 8
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes, all staff were accommodating. The office staff, dock hands and fuel dock attendant were very friendly. Cleaning staff were very quiet and did not speak unless spoken to.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
For a 2005 yacht, the boat was extremely clean. During the boat briefing, we discovered the starboard tachometer wasn't functioning. This was quickly addressed and the alternator was replaced in about 2 hours.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Very sufficient.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
The boat was well ventilated and, for June, pretty comfortable except when at base.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
We experienced a very thorough boat briefing.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes. Planning to return in two years.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
Joann was more than helpful.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Joann and Virgin Island Sailing handled all logistics quickly and professionally making our trip planning extraordinarily easy. Our three couples are already planning our next vacation. Kudos to Joann!
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Steve Greig
Yacht: Leopard 4000 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/5/11 - 6/12/11 with a sleep aboard 6/4/11
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, and the technical staff at Footloose was always accomodating in coming to fix break-downs during the charter.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes, had a leak in the aft, port cabin hatch
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
pretty good. Quick review.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Always.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
no
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Francois Leduc
Yacht: Beneteau 51.5 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 4/9/11 - 4/17/11 with a sleep aboard 4/8/11
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
yes but dinguy was taking on water(crack bottom) and had to empty every time
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
yes
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No you guys are great
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Dr. Jon Farrell
Yacht: Footloose 473 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 3/19/11-3/26/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes and no. Some were and some were not.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Generally yes. The VHF had poor reception. The dinghy motor would not idle and shut itself off every time when backing off the throttle.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes, and all the cooking equipment appeared to be clean.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes. No unusual odors.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Winston did a nice job running thru the boat systems.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Very much.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
The administrative staff in the office left much to be desired on Sun., the day we took off. I missed the captains meeting because either there was no one in the office or whoever was there didn't know anything about when it would be (things were running late) or where it would be. So, we didn't get out after noon as we had to wait for Winston to brief us again. Most disappointing.
Why is it an extra charge to empty a holding tank? It would seem to me to be something a charter company should include.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Walsh
Yacht: Beneteau 352 with ASA skipper 6 days with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 2/28/11 - 3/13/11
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Very Much!! Especially a good service person was Jeanette and Boots.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, there was some small areas which did not work, GPS, the electrical system when a switch was turned on would turn off the radio system.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes, the cooler provided did keep the drinks cool for approximately four hours. The quality of the cooler could be improved.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes, was very restfull at night.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes, we had a captain for the first week and I was trained and passed the three ASA courses.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
The BVI's are beautiful and we would go back.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
Melody was very professional and responded quickly to all our questions.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Would you please provide us new sailing opportunities as the become available.
Thank you,
Richard and Dawn Walsh
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Henry Atterbury
Yacht: Footloose 403 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 2/26/11 - 3/5/11 with a sleep aboard 2/25/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
the very best, Joanne the broker, excellent, the front desk when we got there fantastic, the dock staff great great
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
very good, better than we expected
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
all good
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Winston, great guy did great job
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
coming back next year with friends, can not wait, huge fun
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
nope, it was a great trip, everyone there was so helpful and made it easy
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
We had a great time and thank you for making that happen with Foot Loose. We will be back next year and have friends who want to come along so we will very likely be looking for a 50 ft. boat to handle 8. We showed the pictures and that was that. They all want to come next year.
That was the best trip. First day out of Road Town and sailed to Jost van Dyke (Soggy Dollar), then Marina Cay (great fish dinner and Grog), Trellis Bay (great art shops) , over to V. Gorda Harbor (Georgio's for dinner was fantastic) and then the baths and then along to Ginger, Cooper, Peter and Norman Island for great snorkling, wow ...one really great trip. We saw sting ray, sea turtles, coral, to many different fish to name, beaches that were essentially left to us alone, hiked to the hill over the bight on Norman for great shots to the bay on both sides, loads of sailing and just plain tons of fun. When the kids (son 23 and daughter age 26 but kids to me I suppose) say that was the best vacation ever you know you did the right thing. When the wife says on the last day when are we going next year.....life is good.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Bob Burgess
Yacht: Footloose Leopard 4700(Upgrade from L410) with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 1/23/11-1/30/11 with a sleep aboard 1/22/11
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Some were, some weren't.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yacht was very clean, but there were a few mechanical issues that took us four hours to work out. We departed at 14:30.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Cooking equipment was great-supplied with new toaster and micorwave after we notified them of no toaster on board. Cleaning supplies were minimal.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Very well. Breeze boosters were great.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Boat briefing was scheduled for 08:30 and did not happen until after the chart briefing at 10:40. Boat briefing was adequate.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Absolutely.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
Joann did an excellent job. We will be back.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
The information on our yacht indicated a "VHF radio" was part of the included equipment, and I asked Joann if this was a handheld VHF, and Joann checked and was told that a handheld VHF was included. I know that most VHF installations are inside at the nav station and I would have brought my handheld VHF if necessary. Upon arrival we were told that "we never provide a handheld VHF radio to the boats", so I rented one from Renport at a cost of $35.00. I was glad I did as the external speaker for the interior mounted VHF radio was inoperative, and I would have been without VHF communication from the helm station. I was also told by Footloose that they haven't had a fax number for over a year now, as I forgot my contact lenses and needed a copy of my prescription faxed to Footloose. Also the boat speed indicator was inoperative and was not discovered until we were underway. There were mounting screws missing from the barbecue, the Bimini frame was bent and in need of replacement and one of the heads was not flushing. These were fixed prior to departure. We had to request beach towels and bed blankets, and got the feeling from the office staff that they were doing us a favor by granting our requests. Overall experience was OK, but we had to work hard at preparing the boat to depart. Footloose is a second-tier charter company with good boat value, but service should not also be second tier.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Josee Tessier
Yacht: Beneteau 403 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 12/20/10 - 12/29/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
yes very much 100%
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
yes exept for smelly toilets and water comming out of the bilge (bad boat design was the explanation from the Footloose staff)
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
a few basic thing was missing: a cooking pan and cleaning stuff
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
yes 100%
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
yes very much
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
explain the custom procedure with the boat since we visit st croix, st john and BVI it would be nice to have the paperwork ready in advance
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
we could have had a briefing on chart and on custom procedure we would have save a lot of hassle
a wrench was missing to do the propane tank change over
overall it was very good and we will ask you guys for a charter next year
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Juan Ramirez
Yacht: Footloose 32.2 Club with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 12/6/10-12/13/10 w SAB 12/5/10
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Very friendly
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, the yacht exceeded our expectations
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes, and they provided wind-catchers for the top hatches
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Good review of the entire yacht
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
BVI is fantastic cruising area
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No need to, everything was taken care of.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Thanks again for helping us go on an unforgettable adventure.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Ricardo Burgos
Yacht: Leopard 4700 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 7/23/10 - 8/1/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No. It was just right
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Ms. Gayle Shoupp
Yacht: Leopard 4300 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 6/10/10 - 6/20/10
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
The boat was clean. We questioned the functionality of the heads on the starboard side before we left, as we noticed an odor. We were assured that all was in working order and it was merely the cleaner. However, the heads on the starboard side were finicky, and we battled a constant odor on that side.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Cooking equipment was sufficient, except hot pads would have been good. Cleaning equipment was insufficient. One miniature bottle of Joy would not have been enough for 10 days, and there was no general purpose cleaner provided.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
the man that did the check out was knowledgable and efficient. However, it was very fast and he did not invite a lot of questions. I know that on a day when they have multiple boats leaving, his style is probably appropriate, but we were the only Footloose boat leaving that day.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Absolutely
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
no
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
The boat was very comfortable for eight, and in generally good condition. When we experienced heavy rain in the last couple of days, we did find that it had a few leaks (but most boats do). The cruising area is ideal, and even 10 days was not enough to cover all areas. I suppose we will just have to come back!
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Ms. Jessica Duggan
Yacht: 44.3 Club with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 4/28/10 - 5/8/10 with a sleep aboard 4/27/10
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Very
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, no problems
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
yes
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
yes
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
beautiful
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
no, it was honestly perfect!
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Todd Smith
Yacht: Beneteau 44.3 Club with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 5/30/10 - 6/6/10
Broker: Joann Higgins
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
yes
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
yes
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
yes
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
so-so, The fans helped alot. Hard to sleep because of no A/C but we expected. Next time we will get cat w/
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Dr. Kent Kimmel
Yacht: Beneteau 42cc with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 5/4/10 - 5/11/10 with sleep aboard 5/3/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
The staff was very friendly and accommodating. We were met at the airport and received at the marina by friendly and efficient staff.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
The yacht was clean. Working order was fair at best. Having owned several sailing vessels and by my standards, this boat is in need of maintenance.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Fair. While the staff member did go through a list, it was a cursory procedure. We didn't get sufficient information re: using the anchor windless, with which we had two maintenance calls. There were other issues, but not major enough to complain about, just annoyances.
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Loved it.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
VI Sailing could not have done anything better or more efficiently. We were very impressed with the timely service we received, especially responses to our numerous questions. Thank you.
8. May we post this review on our website?
No
9. Additional comments on your charter?
I have only two recommendations based on our observations: First, other charter operations in the same marina, appeared to be of a higher class and had vessels of higher quality. Second, I would take this vessel (Goldens @ Sea) off your charter list until it is sufficiently maintained.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Frank Liva
Yacht: Beneteau 42cc with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 4/25/10 - 5/1/10 with a sleep aboard 4/24/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
They were very helpful and answered all our questions. The base was really nice
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Yes, overall the boat was in excellent condition - the exception was the aft head (see below)
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes they were adequate. Why don't bareboats ever have wineglasses?
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Yes, which was good because it was a warm week. The boat had 2 "Breeze Boosters" and they were excellent
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes, the briefing was outstanding
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
We loved the BVI. We went to our favorite places and tried a bunch of new spots - we loved deadmans beach on Peter Is. We met Conrad Smith and he was cool. We also caught the full-moon festival at Trellis Bay
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
The support was great.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Couple of comments...
I mentioned the aft head as an issue - it needed a new joker valve. Effluent from the holding tank backfilled into the head bowl and so the head stank the whole week. We had asked the base staff to look at the problem and they flushed the holding tank (into the harbor - gross!) but that didn't solve the problem.
We were disappointed in the provisioning. The quality of the fruit and vegetables that were supplied was not good. What was available in the store was much better.
We flew into St Thomas this trip instead of direct to Beef Island. That was a huge mistake on our part. It wasn't such a big deal going to Tortola but we had to leave early Sunday so we had to be back at the base Friday instead of Saturday morning. Plus we had to go through customs in St Thomas twice - at both the ferry dock and the airport. It took us from 8:30AM to 2:15 PM to get from Rodetown to the gate in STT. We'd suggest that you urge people to fly direct into Tortola vs. St Thomas.
Despite those glitches we had a wonderful, memorable vacation. We'll be back! :)
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Dave Skinner
Yacht: Beneteau 473 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 4/17/10 - 4/24/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes - all very friendly, great experience with Footloose. Staff that stood out: Natalie and Jose at the base, and Boots and Chip from our on-board service call.
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
Very clean. We did have to fill a couple of the water tanks ourselves prior to launch, though. Majority of equipment in good condition--see below for specific issues, but overall the boat was fine.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Yes. Even the freezer/fridge met expectations...they just never seem to work that well!
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Could use more fans. There was only one in the salon, and it was nonfunctional due to a faulty power connection. We brought several portable camping fans that helped, and the wind scoops for the hatches are always great.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes, the boat operation was very straightforward. Only confusion was with the anchor windlass operation--was not clear from briefing that it would not have enough current to start with engine at idle
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
We made a counter-clockwise circle around Tortola, visiting: Manchioneel Bay, The Baths, North Sound, Savannah Bay, Marina Cay, Monkey Point, Cane Garden Bay, Jost Van Dyke (Great Harbor and White Bay), with last night back at Cooper. So did we like the cruising area? I'll just say that it was like a little piece of Heaven. :-) The wind got light the last couple of days, so I got to use some of that full tank of diesel for which I had to prepay. Ended the trip with around 2/3 of a tank, would've been nice to get a refund... :-)
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
I worked with Becky, Melody, Brigitte, and Mallorie--GREAT experiences with all. I appreciate both your proactive communications and timely responses.
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Boat was very clean. Most equipment in good condition. During pre-launch walk-through I identified a cracked belt on the alternator, which was replaced but delayed our departure to 2:30pm. I had to make two service calls, but I was very impressed with Footloose's responsiveness. Call #1: Speed meter nonfunctional, was clogged and rotated 90 degrees--Boots and Chip met us at The Baths and repaired quickly. Call #2: After a couple of hours under motor, the bilge area had filled to the point where water was splashing in between the floor planks. The electric bilge intake filter was clogged, and when I tried to operate the manual bilge the plastic in the handle receptacle cracked. We had to bail out the biIge the old-fashioned way. The bilge failure occurred late in the day so I ended up removing and cleaning the intake filter myself after consulting with Footloose service. One other issue: the lines and/or power wires running inside the mast were not secured or insulated, so as the boat rocked at night they banged around surprisingly loudly.
A few do-differents for next trip: pre-provision for fewer dinners on board, stock one gallon of water per person per day, bring 2-way or 3-way DC splitter, have each couple bring at least 2 fans, bring a few bungee cords to easily secure mast lines at night, and get those pesky lazyjack lines out of the way before hoisting the main the FIRST time (instead of getting smart on the 3rd morning). ;-)
Finally, I truly enjoyed working with VI Sailing. You made the chartering process easy and provided great advice and recommendations for our trip. I will definitely call upon you again for future vacations.
Best regards,
Dave Skinner
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Kyle Miller
Yacht: Beneteau 505 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 3/13/10 - 3/21/10 with a sleep aboard 3/12/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Excellent! All very helpful
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
We had a few mechanical problems with the engine, but the yacht was clean and for the most part damage free
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
Non-stick pan would have been a good addition as well as a large frying pan
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
Some of the breeze boosters were broken
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
It was very quick and a bit impersonal, but we got the major points
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Yes, our only recommendation for the future is to VIDEO TAPE the skippers breifing so we can review it more later. We were not able to remember some of the locations they described.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No, the whole experience was excellent! As one of my friends said everyday on our cruise "You made dreams come true!"
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
Melody you were excellent! Thank you so much for everything! - Salisbury University Sailing Team
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
|
BAREBOAT CHARTER REVIEW
Name: Mr. Steve Bryan
Yacht: Beneteau 44.3 with Footloose Charters - Road Town, Tortola
Charter Dates: 3/25/10 - 4/1/10
Broker: Melody Delgado
Area Cruised: Virgin Islands
We hope your charter lived up to your expectations and we are eager to have your evaluation and impressions of your yachting vacation. Please answer the following questions and add any comments you may have.
1. Were the staff at Footloose friendly and accommodating?
Yes, they were great
2. Was the yacht clean and in good working condition?
( See additional comments - P.S.) The boat was very clean and had no mechanical problems.
3. Was the yacht's cooking and cleaning equipment sufficient?
A bit more silverware would be helpful, more than one each per person. otherwise fine.
4. Was the boat well ventilated?
It was OK, there seemed to be fewer hatches for a boat of this size.
5. Did the staff at Footloose do a good job familiarizing you with the yacht and it's equipment?
Yes, the information was just enough without adding confusion
6. Did you like the area you cruised?
Very much. We went to Anegada for the first time and enjoyed this island.
7. Could we at Virgin Island Sailing, Ltd. have helped you further in any way?
No. It was a first class job. Lots of info and always helpful. Thanks
8. May we post this review on our website?
Yes
9. Additional comments on your charter?
This was the first boat we used in the BVI's with holding tanks and I was extremely pleased with this addition. I felt much more comfortable with my guests swimming around the boat and much better about the conditions in the harbour generally. I only hope all other companies and sailors are following recommended procedures for waste management.
It was great to have a dodger on this boat - it improved evening dining up top significantly and was easy to drop down for sailing.
If there was a wish list - Wind speed and wind direction instrumentation would be great.
Thanks again
P.S. - Re stereo system. The rear speakers had problems (likely due to weather) this is the second time the back speaker system hasn't worked. Fortunately one speaker started working 1/2 way through trip.
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2216 Lakeshore Drive Nokomis, Florida 34275
www.visailing.com, Email: info@visailing.com
Phone: 800.382.9666, 941.966.9387 Secure Fax Numbers: 866.813.1230, 212.500.0028 |
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