Seas the Day

(December 2021) I can’t sing enough praises for our recent trip to the British Virgin Islands with Captain Rod! What could be better? A long-awaited trip surrounded by beauty (and always a soft breeze), together with our dearest friends sailing, cooking, snorkeling, reading, yoga-ing, talking, laughing, exploring the islands, relaxing — slowing down! A much-needed and safe break from the world of COVID! We had beyond a blast aboard our “floating condo” (as Rod refers to it), and immediately vowed to save our pennies to have another catamaran trip in the not too distant future. We would book with Rod again, with pleasure, absolutely no hesitation! Other destinations too! He is an excellent captain, knows his stuff, got us right away, and took us to great stops and eats that were totally up our alley, always conscious of avoiding the crowds. He prepared us well via zoom with the planning and pre-purchase of groceries, liquor, scuba equipment & water toys, sunscreen, and even brought us the best seasickness pills! Truly first-rate! A+++! Double, triple diamond! Thank you, Captain Rod! 

Rod kept us totally entertained, loved all the pre-planned stuff, the food was out of this world. On this trip I did not even want to think about anything I mean nothing. They seemed to know the best cafes and tavernas with incredible food. We had a fabulous night out in Mykonos, and walked marble streets in Syros...Clare and Rod are much more than boat captains...they will make your entire trip spectacular.

From Rod's bloody mary's in the morning to cocktails in the afternoon we never ran out of good drinks and good times.  We got a private dinner on the beach thanks to Rod's friend and restaurant owner on Jost Van Dyke. Anegada Lobster Dinner is a must, sail is a little long but really worth it!

My favorite part of our trip was the relaxed atmosphere. Even though you might go on vacation there still seems to be an agenda or time frame for certain things. Everyone was so laid back and accommodating it felt like we were the only people left on earth. Each person was allowed to do their own thing with absolutely no pressure for compliance.

Our trip lived up to all my expectations and more. Such a relaxing trip with a great group of people. We relaxed on board, or snorkeled, met locals who served fresh fish or oysters from their boats, and were created with locals who brought freshly baked bread to our boat every day. The side excursion to the turtle sanctuary was a favorite. There was no pressure do anything and every opportunity to participate in helping on the sail.

Rod is an especially amazing cook and prepared some awesome meals for us. He loved playing with his drone and captured some beautiful ariel views of all our islands.

Clare is her crazy self and absolutely enjoyable to be around. I have never laughed so hard in my life! She is a great photographer and took amazing pictures of our trip.

Our trip through the Grenadines was gorgeous and we toured different islands. We snorkeled in a turtle sanctuary, hiked through a parrot rain forest, toured a turtle preserve, a cocoa factory, andan old-time rum distillery, and dove the Grenadine underwater statues just to name a few. We ate at some amazing restaurants, had a beach BBQ and had a drink at the Last Bar Before the Jungle. There aren't enough words to describe our trip nor the fun we had with Rod and Clare.  

This trip completely outdid any of my expectations, from the time we got off the plane Rod and Clare had everything arranged. From the location of the boat to a lot of shore excursions to even more native foods that tempted me and also made me gain a few pounds. Unfortunately I was disappointed in the winds, because I really wanted to sail and it wasn't happening with zero wind...thanks Mother Nature!

Things that were great about this trip: the people, the hosts, the experiences, and the boat - The Canopus. The accommodations were great. I can't imagine what could have been improved. I would do this again and bring friends.

Travel to off-the-beaten-path locations to see unspoiled beaches, to learn more about endangered species at a turtle sanctuary, or to simply swim with the sea life. There are always activities to enjoy, like running on one of Norman Island’s 7 miles of trails, or cooking unique foods purchased on local markets – you can do this all and sail your way with Rod and Clare! Thanks again for two wonderful sails and looking forward to more sea, sunsets, and fun!!

I love history and this is the place, with beautiful Roman ruins, dating back to the 900's. As a dog lover I was thrilled to hear that the Dalmatians derived from Croatia...just don't start talking dogs with Clare she'll never shut-up. If you are a Game of Thrones fan you can find some of the movie sets in Croatia.  The nature park with the waterfalls is a must see.  On the boat it's like a moving hotel, unfortunately time went by way to fast, my wife and I will definitely be heading out with these two again, hopefully sooner than later.

Nothing is more exciting than a sailing adventure to a private location, doing what you love. With Cracker Jack – you can sail your way!

Rod and Clare went out of their way to take care of every detail just like they promised. They made our trip specialized and comfortable for each person. Our sail consisted of three different groups and they made sure each one of us had personalized attention.

Clare and Rod were amazing hosts and sailors. Our trip was the most incredible relaxed trip we have ever taken. They are such personable, kind and generous people. We met new friends for life and we plan to take many, many more sails with these two if they will have us. Love you guys!