This deal has expired.

Three- or Six-Night Catamaran Cruise with Breakfast and Lunch and Non-Premium Alcoholic Beverages from Drake Academy

Similar deals

About
Need To Know Info
Where To Redeem

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

What You Get

British Virgin Islands luxury catamaran cruise. Valid for Travel with a Friend package (two Groupons required). Read about package structures here..

Option 1: $999 per person for three nights, valid for departures on 1/09, 1/12, 1/15, 1/18, 1/21, 1/24, 1/27, 1/30, 2/02, 2/05 (a $2,399 value)
Option 2: $1,999 per person for six nights, valid for departures on 1/09, 1/12, 1/15, 1/18, 1/21, 1/24, 1/27, 1/30, 2/02 (a $3,999 value)

Book by: 12/14/12

Included in all options:
- Daily breakfast and lunch
- All soft drinks, beer, wine, and non-premium alcohol
  
  Rates do not include overnight mooring rates (up to $12 per person per day), National Parks Trust mooring fee ($10 per person per visit), or $50 per person yacht insurance.
  
  Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.

Caribbean Luxury Catamaran 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- or six-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. These 4-10 person luxury catamarans include common models such as the Lagoon 500, the Catana 47 Premier, and the Salina 48 Evolution Premier, each of which boasts streamlined seating. The snug cabins usually hold two 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

2-person berth; up to 14 passengers per ship
Standard occupancy: 2
Maximum occupancy: 2
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
Priority boarding passes, guaranteeing the best available yachts and berths, are available for an additional $120 per cabin.

Hotel Policies

Check-in: Guest are required to arrive at the marina by 12 p.m. on the first day of their stay, late arrivals may incur additional charges
Check-out: Guests will disembark at 10 a.m. on the final day of the cruise
Smoking policy: no smoking aboard the yacht
Pet policy: pets are not allowed.
Accessibility: handicap-accessible rooms are available upon request during booking.

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.
Transfers from the airport or ferry port to the yacht base are available for a $50 fee
Priority boarding passes, guaranteeing the best available yachts and berths, are available for an additional $120 per cabin.
Pack nonslip footwear (no hard soles or high heels) to help keep your footing on wet and slippery decks.
Upgrades are available for both meals (special dishes) and drinks (top-shelf liquor).
Vegetarian options are available; notify the crew in advance.

Getting There

By plane: may arrive and depart via 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