Additional health insurance is advised but not essential, although you should especially consider this for foreign travel of any kind not just charter vacations.

Another good idea is to take cancellation or curtailment insurance because many charter companies require a deposit of up to 50%. If you any of your party cancel or need to finish vacation early, this insurance will become invaluable.

Charter vacation destinations.

But where should you go? There are many places you can charter a yacht, so you should consider exactly what you are looking for in your vacation.

The Galapagos is an archipelago that consists of 13 volcanic islands as well as 40 small islands. It is a haven of beautiful plants and exotic animals including marine iguanas and sea lions, weather is very good, and there are many coves and incredibly picturesque beaches to relax on and around.

The Bahamas is a popular destination consisting of more than 700 islands. There are countless cays and beaches to explore as well as some incredible nightlife and beautiful settings. The reef and shallow waters make this a safe place for families to charter a yacht.

And then there’s Greek Islands. One of world’s most enchanting cruising grounds, with ancient history and culture at every turn. Islands such as Lesvos, Mykonos and Paros offer a combination of breathtaking scenery and history.

Still in Mediterranean - at western end - there are Balearic islands off coast of Spain. There’s Majorca, it’s smaller sibling Menorca, and hedonistic playground of Ibiza. You’ll find it a little busier than Greek islands, but on plus side back up and support is first class.

On to Caribbean: It has it all. Many different cultures and nationalities, hundreds and hundreds of islands to explore, and clear blue waters. Yachting at it’s best.

The choice of destinations is amazing, and beauty of chartering a yacht is that you are free to explore at your own pace. Alternatively, drop anchor, pour a stiff drink and soak up sun!

© 2005 John Thompson

Travellers wishing to fill a couple of days in their itinerary can also choose one of extended adventures that comprise of a few days / nights, which include accommodation and transport. These adventures extend a little further down track ... some head east along breathtaking Garden Route towards Addo Elephant Park and others head north towards spectacular Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

Marvic’s tour operator partners in South Africa are also very helpful in offering local advice and recommending best options for time of year that intrepid travellers would like to visit rainbow nation. Marvic Tours and Tales further enhance online booking experiences by offering lots of information about South Africa, as well as handy links to affiliate websites on relevant pages e.g. accommodation / flights.

Guests booking their holiday adventures in South Africa via Marvic Tours and Tales’ website have utmost flexibility in planning their South African vacation itinerary. Marvic Tours and Tales welcomes all travellers, "Come to South Africa, and meet friendly locals!" http://www.marvic.biz/images/Wallpaper%20Meet%20the%20Friendly%20Locals.jpg