Storms wallop the Caribbean each autumn, and the intrepid owners of everything from marinas to conch shacks rebuild in time to welcome the winter season’s charter yachts. This year, however, it may be different. The people in the northern Caribbean remain as resilient as ever, but the structures that are the season’s service hub rarely experience the level of destruction that Hurricane Irma wrought. From marinas and fuel docks to waterfront shopping and dining to some key airports, total reconstruction is going to take time.
Even still, enticing natural scenes like the one in the photograph above, on Antigua, remain — and superyachts are self-sufficient, easily able to charter for a week or longer without heading ashore to resupply. The businesses that do reopen this season will be thankful to see those yachts arrive with clients aboard, and every tourism dollar will help with recovery efforts.
Charter clients with concerns about remaining storm damage can work with brokers to adjust itineraries accordingly.
St. Kitts and Nevis, for instance, reported far less initial damage, and captains surveying the region now, ahead of the New Years and Christmas holidays, will have a list of unblemished harbors like the one at right, spots where charter clients can relax and enjoy all the beauty that has made the Caribbean the world’s top winter charter destination for years.
Some charter clients may even want to pack some items for donation alongside their swimsuits. Before a day on the beach, head ashore to a town and drop off some supplies. Make this season’s Caribbean charter as much about goodwill as it is about good times.
CHARTER IN THE CARIBBEAN
Don’t underestimate reconstruction
Yes, Irma caused immense damage, but tourism is the mainstay of these islands, and they’ll be as ready as they can be this winter.
Work with Yachtaid Global
This group coordinates superyacht response to disasters and knows what items charter clients can bring to donate, and which islands need them.
Be flexible
Preplanned itineraries may need to adapt to changing conditions in the islands. Available yachts may change too.
