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Three-, Five-, or Seven-Night Yacht Cruise for Four Through the British Virgin Islands from Drake Academy

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Fleet of yachts and catamarans cruise together to hidden coves, beachfront restaurants, and stunning coral reefs

What You Get

Yacht cruise for four through the British Virgin Islands; international airfare not included

Included in all options:

  • Accommodations in standard berths
  • Three meals daily
  • Soft drinks, beer, wine, and local spirits

    Choose between the following options:
  • $3,237 for three nights, valid for departures on 8/3, 8/6, 8/9, 8/12, 8/15, 8/18, 8/21, 8/24, 8/27, 8/30, 9/2, 9/5, 9/8, 9/11, 9/14, 9/17, or 9/20
  • $5,756 for five nights, valid for departures on 8/5, 8/10, 8/15, 8/20, 8/25, 8/30, 9/4, 9/9, 9/14, or 9/19
  • $7,916 for seven nights, valid for departures on 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25, 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, or 9/22

    Book by: 7/9/12

    Rates do not include overnight mooring rates (anywhere from free to $100/night, divided among 4–14 passengers), National Parks Trust mooring fee which ranges from $25–$75 per week (dependent on group size), or $10 per guest, per day yacht insurance.

    Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Caribbean Yacht Cruise with Snorkeling, Fine Dining, and Nightlife

In the 16th century, when five different countries were vying for control of the Virgin Islands, the area became a notorious hotbed for real-life pirates of the Caribbean. According to legend, Black Sam Bellamy, Sir Francis Drake, and even Blackbeard spent time among the isles' sandy cays and sheltered inlets. While little evidence of the buccaneers remains today, there are still plenty of sails on the horizon—the British Virgin Islands have become a worldwide yachting destination, thanks to balmy temperatures and steady breezes.

Drake Academy leads luxury sailing expeditions through the archipelago's 60 or so islands, grouping ships together to form a flotilla. The fleet's expert captains, all former army officers, take care of everything, leaving you to enjoy the included meals and tropical cocktails. During a three-, five-, or seven-day cruise, you'll snorkel among coral reefs, pass striking rock formations, and pull into postcard-worthy coves for beachfront dining and partying. For a sample itinerary and more information, click here.

After landing on Beef Island (airfare not included), you'll be greeted by a shuttle that will whisk you off to board your yacht for the journey. While ships can range from a four-person monohull to a 14-person catamaran, common models include the Harmony 52, the Jeanneau 53 Premier, and the Beneteau 523, each of which boasts gleaming wood accents and streamlined seating. The snug cabins usually hold two to three berths each, but many passengers prefer to sleep on deck, under the stars.

Itineraries vary considerably, especially on shorter cruises, but the crew tries to allow for scuba-diving excursions whenever possible (extra fee required). You might drop anchor alongside famous landmarks such as Anegada, a "drowned island" of conch shells ringed by the 18-mile Horseshoe Reef, or the Baths of Virgin Gorda, a series of charming grottos framed by enormous boulders. There's often spare time for swimming in seaside pools, shopping in local markets, or renting a Hobie Cat to try your own hand at sailing.

After all, one of the great pleasures of a yachting expedition is learning how to hold your own on a ship's deck. At any time, Drake Academy's crew can teach aspiring sailors how to decipher a star chart or tie boating knots in their shipmates' shoelaces.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Other Details

Room Details

  • Single and double berths throughout ship
  • Standard occupancy: 4–14
  • Maximum occupancy: 4–14 per yacht (usually 10–12)
  • Adding occupants above standard: not allowed
  • Staff will try to place passengers in a bunk bed or double bed as desired, but cannot guarantee placement

Hotel Policies

  • Check-in and check-out time determined at time of booking
  • Smoking policy: no smoking aboard the yacht
  • Pet policy: pets are not allowed aboard.
  • Accessibility: handicap-accessible rooms are available upon request during booking.

What It's Worth

Yacht cruise for four through the British Virgin Islands as part of a flotilla; international airfare not included

Included in all options:

  • Accommodations in standard berths
  • Three meals daily
  • Soft drinks, beer, wine, and local spirits

    Choose between the following options:
  • $3,237 for three nights, valid for departures on 8/3, 8/6, 8/9, 8/12, 8/15, 8/18, 8/21, 8/24, 8/27, 8/30, 9/2, 9/5, 9/8, 9/11, 9/14, 9/17, or 9/20 (up to a $7,541 value)
  • $5,756 for five nights, valid for departures on 8/5, 8/10, 8/15, 8/20, 8/25, 8/30, 9/4, 9/9, 9/14, or 9/19 (up to a $12,569 value)
  • $7,916 for seven nights, valid for departures on 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 8/25, 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, or 9/22 (up to a $17,596 value)

Rates do not include overnight mooring rates (anywhere from free to $100/night, divided among 4–14 passengers), National Parks Trust mooring fee which ranges from $25–$75 per week (dependent on group size), or $10 per guest, per day yacht insurance.

Amenities

  • Includes dining onboard and ashore
  • Includes beer, wine, and local cocktails
  • Complimentary snorkeling gear
  • Stops for hiking and shopping
  • Beachfront parties and dances

Traveler's Tips

  • Before international travel, always check the State Department's website for important info on the destination and its entry/exit requirements.
  • Priority boarding passes, guaranteeing the best available yachts and berths, are available for an additional $120 per person.
  • Pack nonslip footwear (no hard soles or high heels) to help keep your footing on the small vessels.
  • As space is limited onboard, pack lightly using soft bags. Bath towels, but not beach towels, are provided.
  • Upgrades are available for both meals (special dishes) and drinks (top-shelf liquor).
  • Vegetarian options are available, but notify the crew in advance.
  • Though the Caribbean can be warm and sunny year-round, weather may vary day-to-day in the June-November rainy season. It's a good idea to pack layers for quick weather changes.

Getting There

  • By plane: arrive and depart Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island (airfare not included)
  • By ferry: $15 per person each way from an alternate airport, Cyril E. King Airport (STT), on island of St. Thomas

Need To Know Info

  • Promotional value expires Jul 9, 2012. Amount paid never expires.
  • Must book by 7/9/12 or promotional value expires
  • Valid only for option/dates purchased
  • Limit 1/person, may buy 1 more as gift
  • Limit 1/visit
  • Subject to availability
  • Fee up to Groupon price may apply for all cancellations; must cancel in writing
  • Must be 18+ to check in, stay, or consume alcohol
  • Valid for berth only
  • Credit card required at booking and check-in
  • Must sign waiver
  • Up to $100/group/night mooring fee, $25-$75 National Parks Trust mooring fee/group/week, $10/person/night yacht insurance, and 75¢/person/day cruising tax not included
  • Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.
  • Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings

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