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The N&J Difference

Since 1949, Northrop & Johnson has remained the authority on yachting and is recognized as the leading global yacht brokerage offering 360-degree yachting services in the purchase, sale, management, construction and charter of superyachts and luxury boats over 98′ (30m). We are devoted to delivering extraordinary services and world-class experiences for our clients.

Discover luxury yachts for sale at Northrop & Johnson. From power boats to sailing yachts, explore our exclusive listings and find your perfect vessel with expert guidance from our brokers.

Your wanderlust knows no bounds as you cruise across the globe to your dream destination at the hands of an experienced crew dedicated to fulfilling your every need.

Your yacht is undoubtedly one of your most prized possessions. Your Northrop & Johnson broker will find you the right buyer at the best price possible in the shortest period of time.

Everything you need is in one place to maximize your superyacht ownership experience. We work with you to get the best out of your experience from Charter Marketing and Sales Management to Crew Services, Insurance and Marketing.

Our crew services experts specialize in accurately placing crew members on the appropriate yachts and guiding the successful careers of tens of thousands worldwide.

A Legacy of Excellence

1949 The Gentlemen Brokers Northrop & Johnson is founded in New York, with an office located on Madison Avenue, Manhattan and a base in Fort Lauderdale.

1950s Nothing but extraordinary The fledgling brokerage house Northrop & Johnson develops a reputation for honesty, integrity and fair play.

1960s Growth and maturity Northrop & Johnson expands its brokerage services and opens offices in Connecticut, Florida and Massachusetts.

1970s International flair Northrop & Johnson establishes a presence in Europe, opening a first office in Cannes, shortly followed by the opening of a second office in Puerto Banus, Spain.

1980s American heritage continued Northrop & Johnson’s opens flagship office in the heart of New England with its Newport, RI establishment.

1990s A new beginning Northrop & Johnson thrives under new ownership. With Kevin Merrigan at the helm, the brokerage company sets its foundations to build a modern powerhouse.

2000s From coast to coast Northrop & Johnson’s opens an office in San Diego, California. This locale allows the company to cater to the entire West Coast of America.

2010s The world is your oyster Opening offices in Asia Pacific, Palma, Monaco, Antibes, Australia and beyond confirms Northrop & Johnson as top player on the international stage.

2020s All aboard! The world's largest recreational marine group, MarineMax, has acquired Northrop & Johnson, integrating it into the publicly traded company.

Discover the Ultimate Yacht Charter

Experience the pinnacle of yachting with Northrop & Johnson, where our experts are committed to orchestrating your ultimate yacht charter adventure.

The Northrop & Johnson Difference

Honesty, integrity and extraordinary results.

From yacht sales, yacht purchase and new construction to yacht charter, charter management and crew placement, Northrop & Johnson is a full-service luxury yacht brokerage. Our expert team of sales brokers, charter brokers, charter managers, crew placement and staff are dedicated to fulfilling all of your yachting desires and demands. Northrop & Johnson has brokerage offices strategically placed in yachting hubs around the world, ensuring access wherever you cruise.

Northrop & Johnson prides itself on creating extraordinary yachting experiences by surpassing all expectations at every opportunity.

Our Sales Record

Extremely adept in finding the right buyer or yacht for a client, our impressive sales record showcases the level of expertise by our brokers and staff.

Offices From Coast to Coast

Northrop & johnson has 13 locations around the world.

From the bustling cities of the Americas to the historic waterways of Europe and the exotic ports of Asia, Northrop & Johnson stands as a truly global leader in superyacht marketing. Regardless of your location across the globe, you are guaranteed access to our unparalleled expertise and services. With strategic positions in key destinations worldwide, we are equipped and ready to assist you at any moment, in any place.

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Northrop & Johnson partners with leading yacht builders, designers, and suppliers globally. Our expert brokers facilitate seamless custom yacht construction, guiding owners through every step, from selecting the right shipyard to legal details. With established relationships in the industry, we promise a flawless process from start to finish.

From negotiating prices and contracts to coordinating surveys and sea trials, to providing support with ownership structures and legal matters, Northrop & Johnson’s brokers are skilled in all facets of yacht buying. You can expect a smooth purchase experience from start to finish, leaving you to enjoy the pleasures of stress-free yacht ownership.

Experience the world’s most captivating yachting destinations with Northrop & Johnson. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia to Alaska’s fjords, unlock the perfect adventure aboard a luxury charter yacht.

Experience the most customizable on-water holiday available with a yacht charter. After choosing your destinations your charter broker will work with you to personally perfect your itinerary. Browse our sample itineraries to see what’s possible.

At Northrop & Johnson, we partner with the world’s leading yacht builders, manufacturers and refit facilities to offer top-of-the-line brokerage yachts for sale. Explore our index to view boats by builder.

Explore the latest updates in brokerage, new builds, charter, automotive, lifestyle, travel, and beyond. Navigator News serves as your gateway to stay informed with pertinent Northrop & Johnson updates.

Ready to Embark?

Let's Start Planning

Northrop & Johnson’s superyacht charter experts have in-depth knowledge of worldwide destinations and in-person relationships with the captains and crew of all yachts in our global fleet. Completely private, and with endless luxurious amenities, a yacht charter is the ultimate vacation. Check out our Luxury Yacht Charter Guide to get started.

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&Beyond Yacht Charters. All-Inclusive Crewed Yachts Charters

How to Turn your Yacht into a Full Service Yacht Charter

• October 27, 2023

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Whether you’re a new yacht owner, or have been fortunate to own yachts for many years, choosing to charter your yacht is an entirely different proposition. If you’re wondering how to turn your yacht into a full service yacht charter, there are many things to consider. Likely if you’ve already begun your research, your to-do list keeps growing. We understand – it can get overwhelming!

Maintaining and managing a yacht that’s intended to provide a luxury vacation experience can be a complex and demanding task. Thus, this is where our yacht management program comes to the rescue. By placing your yacht into a proven yacht management program like ours, you can transform your ownership experience.

If you don’t own a yacht yet, we recommend that you start by reaching out to our industry partners, Catamaran Central . They can assist you in finding the right yacht that’s geared towards commercial chartering.

Here are just a few of the responsibilities that we can take off of your plate (and mind!) as your yacht management team:

Meticulous Yacht Maintenance

Our yacht management program employs a team of skilled professionals who are well-versed in all aspects of yacht maintenance, operation, and administration. We ensure your vessel is in peak condition, managing routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections, so your yacht remains seaworthy and safe. Also, this will maximize your future resale value.

Maximizing your Charter Income

If you’re not using your yacht year-round, placing it in our yacht management program can be a lucrative option. We handle everything from marketing, to broker connections, to concierge-style booking to fill up the available weeks. Additionally, our local and industry connections allow for cost effective maintenance and provisioning.

Luxury Crew Management

Recruiting, training, and retaining experienced crew members can be a daunting task. We have a network of qualified hospitality & yachting professionals, ensuring your yacht is staffed with a competent and trustworthy crew.

Full Service Back-up Charter Support

Situations happen. For this reason, we have local chase boats and back-up management teams available 24/7 when guests are onboard your yacht in the event of yachting issues. This allows charters to continue smoothly and prevents loss of charter income. Additionally, crews receive the support they need to provide the highest level guest experience.

Competent Legal and Administrative Support

Managing the myriad legal and administrative requirements associated with yacht ownership can be overwhelming. This is why &Beyond Yacht Charters’ experienced team handles these tasks, from flagging and registration to compliance with international maritime laws. Above all, we give you a partner you can trust with all aspects of your yacht.

Placing your yacht into our yacht management program can turn the dream of yacht ownership into a stress-free reality. Our professional expertise, cost-efficiency, and convenient services allow our yacht owners to fully enjoy their yachts without the hassle of day-to-day management.

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Choosing the Perfect Charter Catamaran: A Comprehensive Guide

It is crucial for any investor considering purchasing a charter catamaran to understand as much about this business as possible, not the least of which

Whether you’re a new yacht owner, or have been fortunate to own yachts for many years, choosing to charter your yacht is an entirely different

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Full All-Inclusive Service

Full All-Inclusive service is always on hand on a crewed yacht. Whether you need a fresh towel, water sports instruction, or a delicious tropical fruit cocktail. No lines, no waiting, just a prompt friendly smile and whatever you could wish for. Your Captain will sail the yacht to all the beautiful and sometimes “secret” anchorages and make sure your vacation is carefree. Your personal Gourmet Chef will create meals and snacks to your desires, your ocean-view table is always the best in the house! An open bar means no hidden charges.

What’s included in your All-inclusive charter?

Extra costs will be: travel insurance, your airfare + taxi, premium wines, liquors & champagne, meals or drinks taken ashore, a gratuity for your crew (15-20%).

These activities are included:

Snorkeling,  Paddle-boarding,  Diving,  Tubing,  Water-skiing,  Kayaking,  Relaxing on Floating Mats and MUCH MORE!

Your All-Inclusive Rate

The Crewed Yachts have a captain and one or more additional crew members, depending on the size and rate. The Chef prepares gourmet meals and the crew provides a high degree of personal service. All crewed yachts are quite nicely furnished and include a variety of features, which you will not always find on bareboat charters. Such as 110v AC power, TV/VCR, a big library of film and CDs, books, games, snorkeling and fishing gear, floating sun mats, a larger and more powerful dinghy, and more. Crewed yachts can provide air conditioning, electric toilets, water skiing, scuba diving, or sailing lessons.

During high season the smaller crewed yachts may not cost very much more than a bareboat and some may actually cost less! We’ve inspected the yachts in our fleet and hand-picked the best. We know the best Captains and the best Chefs on a first-name basis and because we follow up on each and every charter that we book, we receive hundreds of charter evaluations each year. This helps us to continually refine our opinion of the yachts that we recommend to you.

Another thing you should know, when you are comparing rates, is that all yachts cost the same regardless of who you deal with. The yacht owner sets the rate and not by the charter yacht agency that you work with. A large number of yachts offer specialties: Some provide formal sailing instruction and many offer scuba diving or water skiing or both. You’ll find some yachts that are perfect for honeymoons or anniversary trips and others well suited for corporate charters.

All Breakfasts, lunches, 3-course dinners, snacks, and drinks are included in your charter. But it does not stop there! The chefs on these yachts are culinary professionals and many have trained in the best culinary schools and could be working in the top restaurants around the world. But these chefs have decided to live on the water instead and serve a select group of guests the best gourmet dishes on board a yacht. The captain will make you cocktails like Mojito, a painkiller, and bushwhackers at sunset (or all night long!)

Let Us Help You Find The Perfect Yacht

Waypoints are the experts in crewed yacht charters throughout the Caribbean. We have visited all the yachts, and know all the crew and every anchorage. We have booked many crewed sailing vacations for families, groups, and couples with great reviews and happy customers, which means you can book your charter with confidence.

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Tantalizing Tahiti can be yours!

Some of the world's most beautiful islands combine unspoiled marine life, stunning beaches, and a French flair to make Tahiti the ultimate exotic charter destination. A magic experience on our top-rated yachts!

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Want exotic South Pacific? The Tuamotus offer some of the best diving spots in the world, untouched by civilization. Not to mention the fantastic weather, food, and Polynesian hospitality!

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Plan your route with our expert insider itineraries written from first-hand experience in all of the globe’s most exclusive charter destinations. You'll understand why Boatbookings clients have 99% 5-star experiences!

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The Boatbookings Worldwide Team

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Excellent day out with friends, the captain was good fun and he made sure we had a fun day out!

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Valef Yachts

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Yacht Charter in Greece INDULGE YOURSELF WITH THE VALEF EXPERIENCE

A 'Greece luxury yacht charter' vacation offers dazzling natural beauty, breathtaking views and exceptional beaches to make it one of the top superyacht chartering destinations in the world. Get ready to discover the yachting world of Greece and beyond! With over thousands of idyllic islands and beaches in the Aegean or Ionian Islands our guests can rent one of our private boats and embark on thrilling excursions to hidden coves and secluded beaches reachable only by boat. Unpack your bags only once, enjoy ever-changing scenery of unique destinations in Greece and be pampered by your own stewardess, captain and chef. Beyond the yacht charter are details that can also be facilitated by Valef Yachts, from hotel & villa, car, private air, guide, and restaurant bookings to special event coordination. Personalized full-spectrum concierge makes accessibility and insiders' knowledge a seamless part of every custom yacht charter. A Valef representative will guide you throughout the booking process and be on call 24/7 for any concerns, queries, or guidance throughout the charter. What better way to explore this paradise than onboard a luxury crewed yacht? Indulge in the Valef experience!

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Valef Yachts is the pioneer yacht charter firm in Greece, established in 1969 by Vassilis Lefakinis (‘Va. Lef.’). Catering to a worldwide discerning clientele has been the passionate undertaking of this family-run business for half a century, spanning two generations and two continents. Yacht chartering, yacht sales, yacht management and technical management along with concierge service comprise the services Valef offers in the Mediterranean and abroad.

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32.92M / 108F 12 Guests 5 Cabins from €58,000/day

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99.06M / 325F 34 Guests 17 Cabins from €700,000/day

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Creating extraordinary personalized experiences for our customers is our life’s passion, but the joy we bring to the lives of others is truly the most fulfilling reward.

I am a meeting planner by trade and know the effort that is made to make a trip come off like it is a seamless event. You all did it. ~ Happy Valef Client

In English the word is “pampered”. We loved it. Again, this is the reason we give you our highest recommendation. ~ Flaschen family

My companions and I achieved this glorious state of free-floating delight last May by setting out from Athens’ harbor at Piraeus in a seventy-seven foot motor sailer, rented though Valef Yachts…. ~ Vogue magazine

I’m speechless at the extent that you have gone for this charter and your service/hospitality is unsurpassed! ~ Wei Q.

Thank you all for the wonderful hospitality! Truly a magical adventure and delightful crew. Memories to last. ~ Kardashian & Jenner family

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WHAT IS A CREWED YACHT VACATION?

Crewed Yacht Charters combince the service & luxury of a 5* Hotel with absoloute freedom to explore the worlds most amazing destinations without ever having to think about the logistics & crowds. If you want the excitement of being on the water, the privacy of your own yacht, with the absoloute highest level of luxury and service, then a crewed yacht charter is for you!

Crewed Yacht Charters are luxury yacht rentals that have dedicated crew experienced in making this the vacation of a lifetime for you. They are experts in the local areas that you will visit, and take care of everything from the cooking & cleaning, to sailing & safety. Whether this is your first private yacht charter, or you’re a seasoned sailor, you can sit back and relaxing, safe in the knowledge that your expertly trained crew will take care of your every need

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147  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in USA

USA Yacht Charter

The USA is one of the most diverse superyacht destinations in the world showcasing an array of spectacular sights from big blue-bird skies and majestic snow-capped mountains to charming picturesque harbors and historic colonial towns. Further south, vsiitors can also experience a warmer more vibrant atmosphere that belies its Caribbean and Latin heritage, interwoven with the alluring glamor of 5-star resorts and megayacht marinas. Whatever your desires, endless potential abounds for a  superyacht rental  vacation in this magical country. 

Bounded by vast oceans and seas: from the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic oceans to the balmy Caribbean Sea, the USA is notable for its wildly diverse landscape. From the first pilgrim settlers who landed at Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts in 1620 to the present day, the USA has been transformed to become one of the most economically developed nations in the world. However, the draw card for yacht charters undoubtedly lies in its rich cultural history and the amazingly varied cruising grounds on offer.

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USA: At a Glance

Where to rent a yacht in the usa, types of rental yachts in the usa, how much does it cost to rent a yacht in the usa, where should i begin my yacht charter in the usa, when is the best time to visit america by yacht, marinas for yacht charters in america, anchorages for yacht rentals in the usa, airports in the usa, booking advice from the experts, local insight, most popular superyacht hotspots in the usa:, don't miss:.

• Diverse topography From huge glaciers, vast lakes, deep canyons, giant forests, craggy coastlines and miles upon miles of glittering golden beaches, this country has it all.
• Rich maritime history America’s historic East Coast has deep connections with its sailing past; from the first settlers who founded the whaling and boat building communities to the glamorous yacht clubs and summer jazz festivals we know today, and it is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of yachting.
• Wide variety of marinas and anchorages USA is eminently a yacht charter destination with a strong yacht infrastructure that caters to the thousands of vessels traversing its vast coastline and myriad islands each year.
• National Parks and UNESCO World Heritage sites This country boasts an incredible collection of national parks and world heritage sites unrivaled anywhere in the world.
• Popular neighboring destination s USA enjoys close proximity to Canada on its West Coast, as well as the Bahamas and the Caribbean in the south east, offering bountiful stunning additional cruising grounds from which to start or finish your yacht charter.

With a supreme raft of destinations to choose from, you may not be sure where to head to on your USA yacht charter . To make it a little bit easier, we have compiled a list of some of the best places to visit:

Pacific Northwest (San Juans & Anacortes, Desolation Sound, Sunshine Coast, Alaska) Best for : visual drama, glaciers, majestic mountains, salmon fishing, diverse wildlife, endless miles of tranquil cruising, stunning anchorages, dramatic sunsets

California (San Francisco, Newport Beach, San Diego, Baja California) Best for: year-round cruising, natural harbors, whale watching, national parks, Hollywood heritage, characterful islands, iconic landmarks, laid-back beaches

New England (Maine, Newport, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Cape Cod, New York) Best for:  lighthouses, rocky coastline, lobster fishing, sailing yachts, colonial heritage, legendary summer festivals, charming architecture, art galleries, walking tours, vibrant autumn foliage

Florida (Daytona Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale) Best for:  everglades, fishing, snorkelling, water sports, scuba diving schools, secluded anchorages, excellent marina facilities, miles of pristine beaches, Hollywood royalty, luxury resorts, celebrated nightlife, short distance to the stunning Abacos Islands

Florida Keys (Key Largo, Key West, Bimini Islands) Best for: coral reefs, spectacular scuba diving and snorkelling, kayaking, eco-tours, dolphin watching, island hopping, fishing, gateway to the Bahamas

Neighbouring Regions (Bahamas and Caribbean) Best for: white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, marine parks, coral reefs, an abundance of marine life, stunning anchorages, water sports, pastel-hued villages, excellent dining, vibrant clubs and bars

As an enduring and highly popular yacht charter destination, there will always be a varied selection of charter yachts to choose from. If you are unsure of the type of yacht that would best suit your needs, there are a few things you should consider first: 

Motor Yacht Charter in the USA

With their ability to cover vast distances over a short period, as well as offering comfortable and generous accommodation, not to mention a much wider variety of onboard facilities and water toys, a motor yacht charter could prove the perfect choice for your vacation. From high-performance open yachts, perfect for zipping around waterways and harbors, to larger displacements vessels offering luxurious cruising at a slightly more relaxed pace, the choices are endless. 

Sailing Yacht Charter in the USA

If you prefer a more adventurous style of cruising, then a sail yacht charter could be just the ticket. New England on America's East Coast is a renowned sailing mecca, where you can enjoy far-reaching views of the Appalachian mountains as you cruise this stretch of glorious rugged coastline. 

There promises to be plenty of favorable winds wherever your destination and a sailing yacht charter is a superb way to experience all the wonder this beautiful country has to offer.

With spacious accommodation and shorter drafts enabling access to shallow waters, catamarans can also prove a great choice for yacht charters, especially if you wish to incorporate the exquisite shallow turquoise waters of the   Bahamas i nto your itinerary.

With the wide variety of yachts available for charter across the country, there should be something to suit every type of budget. The average prices for motor and sailing yacht charters in the USA are as follows;

Motor Yacht Charter

* All prices are quoted per week plus expenses.

Sailing Yacht Charter

The possibilities of where to start your USA yacht charter are endless, so the answer really depends on your chosen destination. Whether you are looking to cruise around the warm blue waters of Florida and the Bahamas , or prefer the majestic scenery and incredible wildlife of Alaska , there is a destination to suit everyone's taste and desires around this spectacular country.

For Florida yacht charters on the southeast coast, Miami  is great place to kick start your charter, where you will find plenty of international transport links, plus well-equipped superyacht marinas and luxury resorts in which to indulge yourself. Relax with a heavenly massage or take advantage of the many fine-dining options available before heading south to explore the exquisite Florida Keys .  Nassau is another fantastic option for those wishing to include the beautiful cruising grounds of the Bahamas in their itinerary.

For East Coast charters, the quintessential all-American yachting ports of Newport , Rhode Island and  Maine further north are fantastic jumping-off points for New England yacht charters , offering picture-perfect bays, charming clapboard houses, boutique art galleries and chic yacht clubs.

Sag Harbor to Nantucket (6 days)

On the country's West Coast, San Francisco provides an ideal place to start your yacht vacation, with a number of international airports serving the region and reliable shuttle and fast-speed train services delivering you straight to the harbor. Don't forget to include a trip to downtown San Francisco where you can explore its fascinating curving streets and hidden alleys. Head north to visit Napa Valley 's famous wineries or south to explore this region's stunning golden-fringed coastline, including the eternally glamorous  Los Angeles , San Diego and Baja California .

Up in the Pacific Northwest region, the San Juan and Gulf Islands are incredibly popular for yacht rental vacations where the pace of life is slower. This stunning archipelago of 450 or so islands offers relaxed and tranquil cruising, with short hops between islands. Accessible by road,  Anacortes is the ideal jumping-off point for your superyacht rental around this exquisite region. Head south to the breathtaking Desolation Sound ; world-class cruising grounds bursting with diverse wildlife from humpback whales to the emblematic Bald eagle.

For more information and advice on your preferred charter destination and itinerary, please speak with your yacht charter broker .

As part of the third largest continent in the world, the best time to visit during your superyacht vacation will naturally depend on your destination;

• Pacific Northwest – peak cruising times are during the months of June-September, however, the shoulder months of May and early October are also worth considering, offering a less crowded chartering experience, especially around the San Juans, and the weather is still usually quite settled.
• West   Coast – for yacht rentals around San Francisco, Napa Valley, California and Baja California further south, the best time to visit is around May through to November, although these destinations can be enjoyed all year round.
• Florida – the optimum times to visit the Sunshine State will be from November through to April, which are the driest months where temperatures rarely dip below 20 degrees in winter. You should note that Christmas and New Year are peak times and can get busy, so if you are looking to rent a yacht over this period we recommend booking early. Ideally, ensure your yacht charter is booked no later than late spring/early summer to avoid the hurricane season from July-October. 
• New England – the ideal time to visit this charming location will be from May to September, although shoulder months are a great time to avoid the crowds, especially late September when the foliage on the leaves start to change to reveal the breathtaking canvas of golden hues and rich deep reds this destination is so famous for.

The USA has been a renowned destination for yacht lovers for years, spurring the construction of hundreds of excellent, well-equipped marinas up and down the East and West Coast, and throughout its vast labyrinth of waterways and lakes, which cater to yachts of all shapes and sizes. 

We have listed some of our favourite marinas at which to park up and take a breather whilst on your yacht charter, where you are sure to be welcomed with a wide smile and offered lots of helpful advice as you head off to explore your new surroundings.

New England

• North Cove Marina , downtown New York: hosts yachts of up to 53m LOA, with a max draft of 4m. 
• Montauk Yacht Club , Hamptons: this exclusive marina is located near the Hamptons, with pools and tennis courts as well as access to Gurney's Resort facilities. It has 232 berths catering to yachts of up to 67m / 220ft.
• Saybrook Point Inn Marina & Spa , Connecticut: a fabulous location with great amenities on the Long Island Sound, comprising 123 berths for yachts up to 70m / 230ft in length.
• Newport:  the spiritual home of yachting offers fantastic first-rate marinas including  Newport Marina , Bowen’s Wharf , a marina located on the waterfront, accommodating yachts of up to 56m / 185ft and the  Newport Yachting Centre  in the heart of town, boasting 4,500 feet of dockage for yachts of up to 55m / 180ft. Some further gorgeous marinas and luxury resorts can be found on Goat Island , a small island oasis nestled in Narragansett Bay close to Newport.
• Boston Yacht Haven: located in Boston’s historic quarter of North End, comprising a fully serviced marina, restaurants and boutique hotel, and offers 100 berths for yachts up to 91m / 300ft in length.
• Nantucket Boat Basin:  this pretty marina consists of 240 berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 90m / 300ft.
• Dimillos Marina, Portland, Maine : close to the beautiful old-world town and extremely well run. It has 125 berths for yachts up to 75 meters in length.

Florida, Florida Keys and Bahamas

• Palm Harbour Marina, Palm Beach: extremely well-equipped marina, boasting 200 berths that can cater to yachts of up to 76m / 250ft. 
• Mia Marina, Miami:  centrally located next to some of the finest restaurants in the country, and a popular haunt of the rich and famous.
• Key West:  a great stopover for yachts cruising the Keys and the Bahamas . There are several marinas here catering to larger yachts . Key West Marina  - offers 37 berths for yachts up to 60m / 200ft, although this marina gets very busy so we recommend booking ahead.  Conch Harbour  - has 43 berths for yachts up to 60m / 195ft and Stock Island Marina Village boasts an impressive 288 berths catering to yachts of up to 137m / 450ft.
• Hawks Key Resort & Marina , Duck Key: is a delightful family-friendly marina, offering 85 berths for yachts up to 33m / 110ft LOA.
• Ocean Reef Club , Key Largo: this friendly marina boasts 175 berths accommodating yachts up to 53m / 175ft.
• Atlantis, Nassau, Bahamas:  a luxurious resort, with Michelin-star dining and luxury spas, and boasting 63 megayacht berths.

• Marina Del Rey , California: the king of all marinas. It’s the largest man-made harbor in North America and has the facilities to go with it.
• Berkeley Marina , California: a vast marina with 1,000 berths and boasting an array of activities in the area, this marina also offers spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge.
• Kona Kai Marina , San Diego: located just minutes from San Diego International Airport, this marina is a great jumping-off point for yacht charters around America's stunning west coast. It has 500 berths that can accommodate yachts of up to 76m / 250ft.
• IGY Marina Cabo San Lucas:  located right on the very tip of Baja California Sur, this marina boasts 380 berths, with 33 slips catering to superyachts of up to 115m / 375ft.

Pacific Northwest

• Elliott Bay , Seattle: this marina offers wonderful views of the Seattle skyline plus restaurants and hosts year-round events, and is a great place to tie up for itineraries encompassing Desolation Sound and Alaska.
• Salmon Bay Marina:  superyacht standard marina with excellent facilities catering to yachts up to 73m / 240ft.
• Roche Harbor Marina,  San Juan Island: this picturesque harbor sits on the northwest side of the island and is a popular stop-off for yachts exploring the beautiful San Juan archipelago. If you're looking for something a little livelier, head to the nearby town of  Friday Harbor , which   has a marina with 377 berths catering for yachts of up to 45m / 150ft.

If we were to list all the great anchorages around this vast country we would be here all day, so we have condensed this list down to a few of our favorites for you to consider whilst cruising your chosen destination; whether that's in the shadows of the imposing Golden Gate Bridge , or the verdigris waters of Alaska as you watch orcas frolic over the bow, or anchored in the shallow turquoise bath-warm waters of the Bahamas , where you can swim and snorkel straight off the back of the yacht. The choices for spectacular anchorages in America are simply endless.

• Block Island, Rhode Island:  just 13 miles from Newport this is a lovely area to drop anchor for anyone cruising the beautiful Long Island Sound, encompassing 17 miles of pale golden beaches and well-preserved Victorian architecture.
• Port Washington, Long Island : situated in Massachusetts Bay, this is a charming anchorage with easy links to New York City, and regularly gets rave reviews.
• Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown:  located on the island's East Coast, hugely popular for its whaling history, smugglers and pirates! Martha's Vineyard is popular for its lovely beaches, boutique art galleries, sailing and laid-back culture, as well as being a well-known retreat for celebrities and politicians.
• Seven Hundred Acre Island, Maine: drop anchor here and head ashore to experience the charming quintessence of this popular New England haunt, where lovely pastel timber homes vie with gilded-age colonial mansions and yacht marinas. 

Florida and Florida Keys

• Cayo Costa State Park, Florida:  encompassing 9 miles of wild coastline, this is a superb stop for those who wish to explore the park’s trails and get acquainted with the local residents, including alligators, manatees, porpoises and sea turtles. 
• Dry Tortugas National Park, Gulf of Mexico:  comprising seven islands – named for their lack of freshwater – located 63 miles west of Key West. This sheltered national park also boasts excellent snorkeling areas. Head ashore to Garden Key, the site of Civil War-era Fort Jefferson. 
• Dinner Key Anchorage, Coconut Grove, Florida:  located on Biscayne Bay, this stunning anchorage is a perfect place to park up before heading down to the Bahamas or the Caribbean. 

• Glorietta Bay, San Diego:  a lovely anchorage inside the main waterway close to the beautiful Hotel del Coronado, San Diego’s legendary beach resort.
• Newport Beach, San Diego:  quiet and scenic.
• Coronados Islands:  located 12 miles off the coast of San Diego. This small group of islands has some lovely anchorages around its clear blue waters and boasts some of the best diving on the west coast, where visibility often exceeds 80 feet.
• Channel Islands National Park:  a stunning archipelago of 5 islands off the coast of Santa Barbara offering a heady mix of sea caves, kelp forests, scenic hikes and whale watching.
• Monterey Bay, Big Sur:   located in a pretty scalloped bay south of Santa Cruz, with a bustling waterfront offering plenty of dining options where you can enjoy freshly caught squid, the local specialty. Don’t miss the Monterey Aquarium, one of the best on the west coast.
• Turtle Bay (Bahia Tortugas), Baja California: a pretty sheltered bay with plenty of anchorages, perfect for yachts heading down to the southern end of Cabo San Lucas. 

Pacific Northwest and Alaska

• Gig Harbor, Washington:  this charming maritime village near Puget Sound is a great place to anchor up and head ashore to explore its unique history and culture. Don’t miss its legendary Maritime Gig Festival in June.
• Princess Louisa Inlet, British Columbia:  often heralded as the “eighth wonder of the world” this area is located up a waterway inside the border of Canada opposite Vancouver Island. This breathtaking spot is famous for its waterfalls and tranquil emerald green mirrored lakes that perfectly reflect the surrounding snow-capped mountains and lush forests.
• Sucia Island Marine State Park, San Juan Islands:  known as the “Crown Jewel” of Washington’s San Juan Islands, this beautiful area has an array of exquisite anchorages, offering sheltered coves, lovely beaches and forest trails.
• Emerald Cove, Prince William Sound, Alaska:  watch icebergs float by as you picnic on one of the lovely pebble beaches around this sheltered cove. Prince William Sound offers incredible vistas and wonderfully diverse wildlife.
• Inian Islands, Alaska:  located south of the popular Glacier Bay, these exceptionally lovely islands are perfect for anchoring. Take the tender and watch the whales feeding on the area's rich sources of plankton. The islands are also teeming with salmon and halibut, perfect for fishing, or watch the region's brown bears as they catch their evening meal. 

Your yacht crew and broker will know the most about the best marinas, bays and sheltered coves where you can find suitable docking and anchorage options throughout your charter.

Newport, Rhode Island tends to be the favorite destination to kick start yacht charters in this beautiful region. The closest airport is Providence International, which is only half an hour's drive away.  For other destinations in New England, there are countless airports serving this region, including;  

• Logan International, Boston – New England's largest and busiest airport, with nonstop flights to destinations across the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, and a domestic hub for Delta and Cape Air and JetBlue. 
• Hartford's Bradley International Airport – New England's busiest airport in the south of the region, serving Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. 
• Rhode Island's Green Airport (formerly T.F. Green) – a great alternative airport to Boston Logan.
• Portland International Jetport – Maine's largest airport 

Bear in mind that perennial summer favorites such as Cape Cod , Nantucket , and Martha's Vineyard each have their own airports which may prove worthwhile, particularly if you have limited time.

Florida is extremely accessible by air with five international airports serving the area: 

• Florida Keys/Marathon International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
• Palm Beach International Airport
• Southwest Florida International Airport

Private jets and other aircrafts are also able to land at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, Boca Raton Airport, Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport and Naples Airport. 

For USA intineraries incorprating the Bahamas

The Bahamas archipelago has four major airports with countless smaller airports running services to and from the islands.

• Lynden Pindling International Airport in the capital city Nassau. This is the region's busiest airport with three terminals serving international, charter and domestic flights.
• Rocksound International Airport, South Eleuthera.
• Exuma International Airport, Great Exuma
• Grand Bahama International Airport, Freeport

California 

California boasts literally dozens of commercial airports, here are some of the main ones for yacht charters in this region;

• Los Angeles LAX – the busiest and largest of all California airports, with major international flights from all over the world.
• San Francisco International Airport – California's second busiest airport is located on the edge of the San Fransisco Bay and offers stunning views of the city as you land.
• Oakland International Airport – located only 25 miles from San Francisco, just across the San Francisco Bay, and is served by a wide range of major airlines.
• Sacramento Airport is located about 15 km north of the city and ideal for yacht charters heading to Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe or Yosemite National Park.
• San Jose International Airport – located south of Silicon Valley, this airport offers direct flights to Europe, Asia Canada and Mexico and is perfect for itineraries incorporating San Fransisco, Monterey and Carmel.
• San Diego International Airport - perfect for yacht charters encompassing the San Diego, the Coronados and Baja California.

For yacht charters around the beautiful San Juan Islands, the following international airports offer flights  into the region;

• Seattle Tacoma Airport, Washington – the largest and busiest airport serving the region.
• Vancouver Airport – located on Vancouver Island, it is Canada's second-largest airport and serves destinations from across the globe. 
• Victoria International Airport – More than 50 flights a day connect Victoria with Vancouver International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma Airport and several other major cities throughout Canada and the US. 
• Bellingham International Airport, located 50 miles north of San Juans.

Popular San Juans airports include  Anacortes , Fidalgo Island , Friday Harbor , San Juan Island and Orcas Island. 

For Alaska-bound flights, many include a stop at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport in Seattle.

Other airports in Alaska include:

• Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport – located in Alaska's largest city, and serves both international and domestic flights into the region. This is the most popular destination for yacht charters around this stunning location.
• Fairbanks International Airport – also serves flights from across several continents although is not conveniently located close to the water.
• Juneau International Airport – located in Alaska’s capital city in the south of the region, and another popular starting off point for yacht charters. 

Flights from Seattle take about two-and-a-half hours to reach Juneau , and three-and-a-half to four hours to Anchorage and Fairbanks.

With its incredibly diverse landscape offering a wide variety of spectacular destinations, the USA remains a hugely popular destination for yacht charters. 

As a major yachting hub, there should always be a wide variety of yachts and destinations to choose from, however we do recommend booking your rental yacht well in advance of your trip to secure your perfect yacht on your preferred dates.

This will ensure your yacht broker has plenty of time to tailor an itinerary to suit you and your guests, including any nights you wish to spend in marinas. We recommend booking up to 3 months in advance to give your broker the optimum time to organize everything down to the last detail. 

For yacht charters in the Pacific Northwest;

• Desolation Sound is very calm and sheltered so not always a good option for those who like to sail.
• The San Juan islands are slightly protected from rain by the Olympic Mountains, but can still be showery at any time of the year.
• Bring warm clothes for Alaska as temperatures get very chilly, especially near the glaciers.
• Beware of large cruise ships as their wakes can be a nuisance.
• Alaska is not an ideal destination for sailing, as winds are either non-existent or southwesterlies bring uncomfortable seas.
• Some of the most beautiful anchorages around Alaska can be up to 100 ft deep.

For yacht charters on America's southwest coast;

• If you are chartering a foreign-flagged vessel or returning from Mexico, you will be required to stop at Customs on Shelter Island, where they routinely confiscate chicken, eggs, and fruit.
• It's also generally preferable to head south down the US West Coast rather than fight the winds and tides heading north.

For yacht charter itineraries that include the Bahamas

• Insurance and taxes in the Bahamas are 4%.
• Visa issues have been experienced clearing through the Bahamas.

Advice relating to all regions;

• Tips on charters in the US are often expected to be at least 20%.
• Whilst some yachts are legally permitted to charter in the US, others do not meet American fiscal requirements and so are not available for charter whilst in US waters. Please speak with a yacht broker for further advice on specific yachts that can charter in the USA.

Steeped in maritime history, this beautiful region comprises six states: Maine , New Hampshire , Vermont , Massachusetts , Rhode Island and Connecticut . Located in America’s Northeast and stretching nearly 3,500 miles from top to bottom, this area has been a drawcard with sailing elites for centuries. Characterized by its craggy coastline, rocky peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, sand dunes, lighthouses, forested mountains and vibrant autumn foliage, New England is the perfect yacht charter destination for those who enjoy sailing, history and culture – where picture-perfect bays and charming portside towns adorned with beautiful architecture abound.

Most New England yacht charters start off in Newport Rhode Island , which enjoys convenient transport links and easy access to the marinas. Often heralded as the birthplace of yachting and home of America’s Cup challenger series, Newport is one of the most popular summer havens in the US, especially for the East Coast’s smartest families, who come to enjoy the gilded mansions, myriad mouthwatering seafood restaurants, glamorous yacht clubs and endless oceanside views that typifies this gloriously rich historic town. Head over to Block Island, known for its laid-back lifestyle, historic lighthouses and the beautiful Black Rock beach , perfectly suited for a hiking expedition.

Martha’s Vineyard is an absolute must for anyone who appreciates powdery beaches, boutique art galleries and quaint wooden plank homes. Anchor at the enchanting island of Cuttyhunk in Vineyard Sound, with its rich history and lovely beaches. Don’t miss Nantucket , located east of Martha’s Vineyard , home to the Whaling Museum where you can discover the island’s intriguing culture and history as a 19th-century global whaling hub. Another famous summer destination is Cape Cod , a rather apt hook-shaped promontory north of Nantucket, and a favorite residence of the Kennedy’s, known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back lifestyle, as well as being the fictional location for Jaws!

And perhaps, no New England yacht charter would be complete without a trip to New York , where you can cruise past its illustrious towering skyline and take in the majestic  Statue of Liberty . Stop off at Greenwich village port renowned for its designer shops then head up Long Island Sound with its glorious miles of coastline, entertainment and some of the most expensive real estate in America. Anchor outside the Montauk Yacht Club , The Hamptons' most exclusive sailing hub.

Affectionately known as the Sunshine State , this region is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Kick things off with a trip to the hedonistic city of Miami , where you may even find yourself moored up alongside Hollywood royalty as you step off your yacht to explore this spectacular location, renowned for its luxury resorts, designer shopping, golden bronzed beaches and exclusive marinas. A visit to South Beach is an absolute must, for all things art, fashion and film. For something a little quieter, head to Biscayne Bay , a national park located south of Miami with beautiful clear aquamarine waters and stunning marine life. For those who appreciate culture, take a stroll through the Art Deco district , and gaze at the exquisite early twentieth century hotels and architecture. 

Head south to experience the spectacular Florida Keys , a stunning archipelago of 800 or so islands protected by America’s only living coral reef, dotted like a “jade necklace” south towards the turquoise waters of the Bahamas. Key Largo , situated between the everglades and coral reef, is a bustling retreat from the mainland, offering diving, fishing, and great restaurants. Take a high-speed airboat trip around the Everglades , where you may spot an alligator or crocodile peeking out from the reeds. Don’t miss Key West , where history and tradition meet natural beauty and serenity. Key West is known for its year-round balmy temperatures, palm-lined streets and tropical gardens, as well as for its boutique shops, art galleries and delectable restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss a visit to the American writer Ernest Hemingway’s home , a short hop across from the Key West lighthouse . These islands provide a convenient jumping-off point for itineraries including the  Bahamas and the   Caribbean .  

Related:  The Coolest Neighbourhoods to Explore on Your Miami Yacht Charter

Neighboring Regions:

Starting from Bimini island , just 45 miles south of Miami, and stretching all the way south to Turks and Caicos , Bahamas is an oasis island chain of 700 picturesque islands fringed by powder-white sands and see-through aquamarine waters, bordered by one of the world’s greatest barrier reefs. These glorious islands offer endless miles of relaxed cruising around shallow waters, where marine life surrounds you, tempting you into the clear warm waters to explore its fascinating kaleidoscopic underwater world.

We recommend a stop at the Abacos , a string of sandy keys to the west of Florida, offering a paradisical adventure of a lifetime. Treasure Cay is also home to one of National Geographic's top 10 beaches. Don't miss Fowl Cay for fantastic snorkeling, marine parks and near-perfect beaches. Harbour Island further south boasts fantastic dining options, beaches, as well as a tropical garden. For some amazing snorkeling and diving, head for Pelican Cays National Park , renowned for its spectacular coral and sea life where you will witness giant starfish dotted along the sandy bottom for miles.

Your trip around the Bahamas wouldn't be complete without a trip to the breathtaking Exumas , offering hundreds of exquisite anchorages and also home of the famous swimming pigs.

The Pacific Northwest can be characterised by its sublime mountainous scenery, spectacular wildlife and lush forested islands, so it's hardly surprising that it is one of the most sought-after yacht charter regions in the world.

A hugely popular destination is the San Juans Islands : aptly nicknamed the “Virgin Islands of the North” and located south of the US/Canada border. Here the pace of life is slower, where friendly locals welcome you as you attempt to reconcile yourself with the mesmerizing scenery around you. Favorite areas in the region include the picturesque Orcas Island , the largest of the San Juans, where you can trek the tallest mountain in the archipelago – Mount Constitution – rising skyward for nearly half-a-mile. The 360º views at the top are well worth the effort! Another must-see is the delightful San Juan Island , with its delectable restaurants and bustling markets. Take a stroll through the exquisite Victorian gardens, or discover the island’s fascinating historical site of confrontation between British and American troops in 1859. 

Head north to the spectacular Desolation Sound , where intense serene tranquility awaits. This area is considered one of America’s finest cruising grounds, where calm, sheltered waters teem with fish; oyster, clams, prawns, salmon and cod. Enjoy a spot of fishing off the back of the yacht and afterward your chef can prepare your catch for dinner onboard! There are numerous marine parks in the area with plenty of stunning anchorages. Step ashore for a lovely walk in the woods, where you could encounter a herd of elk, soaring eagles or even a grizzly – so don't forget to pack your bear spray! 

Sunshine coast & Jervis Inlet is another breathtaking location comprising 13 marine parks offering total seclusion, majestic scenery, stunning anchorages, excellent dining options and fantastic yacht facilities. Don't miss the phenomenal Princess Louisa Inlet and Chatterbox Falls; a  scenic granite-walled gorge of cascading waterfalls that has to be seen to be believed. Gibson’s Landing is a quaint seaside village overlooked by the towering mountains where you will find a charming bustling town, art galleries, museums and restaurants, marina and mooring facilities. Further afield, be sure to visit Halfmoon bay , Sargeant Bay  and Thormanby Islands , characterized by their tiny coves and blissfully quiet anchorages.

America's largest state, lying on the Arctic Circle separated from its own country by Canada, is well-known for its unparalleled visually dramatic scenes, breaching whales, calving glaciers and majestic mountains, not to mention its undeniably breathtaking dramatic midnight sunsets. Anyone visiting the region will also be able to get up close to some of nature's most magnificent animals, such as humpback whales, orcas, caribou and majestic soaring eagles. There are endless beautiful spots to visit, and wherever you are you will not be disappointed during a yacht charter in Alaska .

Glacier Bay is a particular favorite destination for yacht charters, where you can park up and witness thunderous icebergs births, as well as also enjoy skiing, whitewater rafting and spectacular helicopter picnics on top of a glacier.

Try your hand at King Salmon fishing outside of Sitka , fly over the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau or float through endlessly beautiful Frederick Sound spotting breaching humpback whales. Red Bluff Bay , known for its towering mountains, waterfalls and glistening ice fields, is also home to the region's brown bears who feast on salmon here every August.

Stretching from San Francisco down to Newport Beach , San Diego and into Baja California, this region is best characterized by its endless miles of beautiful beaches and wild rugged shoreline, where you can appreciate its spectacular beauty from the water as you witness breaching whales and dolphins darting across the wake of your yacht as they make their journey towards the warmer waters of Mexico . 

Start your yacht charter in San Francisco ’s natural vast harbor, and watch the dolphins and sea lions frolic in the surf. Unhampered views of the  Golden Gate Bridge are sure to make your charter already feel special. Take the tender ashore to experience the heady bustle of Fisherman’s Wharf , and don’t miss a spine-chilling trip around Alcatraz Prison . We also recommend a trip to Muir Woods , where you can take in the spectacular sight of hundreds of gigantic 1000-year-old redwoods, a truly unmissable event. 

Head north to Point Reyes National Seashore Reserve , and enjoy a hike around beautiful wind-swept rocky bluffs and secluded golden beaches. Due east of Point Reyes, you’ll find California’s world-class Napa Valley wine region , where you can spend the day tasting some of the world’s finest wines in the California sun against the stunning backdrop of the hillside vineyards.

Follow the wind and tides down past Santa Cruz and take shelter in the scalloped bay encircling the beautiful town of Monterey , a bustling waterfront offering plenty of dining options where you can enjoy the local specialty of freshly caught squid. Don’t miss the Monterey Aquarium , one of the best on the West Coast.

If you are intending to include the stunning Baja California in your itinerary, where better than to kick things off in the eternally glamorous city of Los Angeles , where convenient transport links, not to mention some of the finest restaurants and bars in America, will prove a great starting point for your yacht charter. Take a stroll along Redondo Beach , Los Angeles’ hidden gem, before heading back to your yacht. Cruise to Newport Beach just off the coast of Los Angeles, the renowned playground for mega yachts and Hollywood royalty. If you’ve booked ahead, moor up at Newport Beach Club, one of the oldest in the US, and take a stroll across the bridge to Balboa Island , where nostalgically charming cottages with white picket fences, saltwater taffy shops and wooden ice-cream parlors abound. 

Across the water you’ll find the beautiful Santa Catalina Island , where crystal clear waters make the perfect spot for a picnic, followed by a swim and some snorkeling around the reef, where you will find an abundance of fascinating marine life. 

Further south you'll be sure of a warm welcome in  San Diego , with gorgeous sandy beaches and a plethora of parkland. Visit Redwood National Park where you can discover the world’s tallest trees. Of course, a trip to San Diego wouldn’t be complete without stops at San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld , where you can get up close and personal with some of their friendly killer whales!

If you have time, cruise down into Baja California , the world’s second-longest peninsula, where you will find yourself transported to a world of wild untamed beauty and romantic sunsets, where condors swoop on thermals high up in vast washed out skies, and nights are spent under a wide canopy of twinkling stars. Simply heaven.

Acadia National Park, Maine : a stunning rocky headland with a rich cultural heritage, featuring some of the highest mountains along the Atlantic Coast.

Everglades National Park, Florida : a unique tropical wilderness with UNESCO Biosphere status, where you can explore its vast network of wetlands and forests.

Universal Orlando Resort, Florida : the ultimate theme park for kids, big and small!

Museum of Modern Art, New York : boasting some of the world's finest collections of contemporary art.

Bunker Hill Monument, Massachusetts : a 221-foot towering obelisk commemorating one of the first major battles between British and Patriot forces in the American Revolutionary War in 1775. 

San Diego Zoo, California : located in the beautiful Balboa Park, the zoo boasts over 12,000 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. 

Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska : spectacular 13 miles long glacier located in southeast Alaska, in the Mendenhall Valley.

Lido Key Beach, Florida : exquisite white-sand beach lapped by turquoise waters, located on Barrier Island off the coast of Florida.

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USA Yacht Charter Q&A

Whilst some yachts are legally permitted to charter in the US, others do not meet American fiscal requirements and so are not available for charter whilst in US waters.  Many charter yachts are foreign flag vessels and don't qualify.

Please speak with a yacht charter broker  for further information on specific yachts that can charter in US Waters.

Where to begin your yacht charter depends on your chosen destination in this hugely diverse continent. For New England yacht charters, the popular option is Newport, Rhode Island, an all-American yachting hub boasting picturesque harbours, gilded-age mansions and chic yacht clubs. 

For Florida yacht charters, the glamorous city of Miami tends to be the preferred jumping off point. Alternatively, yacht charters can begin in Nassau, Bahamas before making their way up the Florida Keys to finish up in Florida. With a raft of international airports at your disposal, along with world-class cruising areas, the choice is really up to you.

For yacht charters on the southwest coast, a popular starting point is in the beautiful harbor of San Francisco, where views of the Golden Gate Bridge greet you as you fly in. For charters in the Pacific northwest region, most yacht charters incorporate either the breathtaking San Juan Islands or the scenic splendor of Alaska further north, with most international flights routing through the main hub Seattle for both destinations, with smaller charter flights operating out from here.

There are myriad yachts available for charter in America, which come in all shapes and sizes, from speedy planing models to luxury mega yachts and everything in between.

The costs will vary depending on your chosen destination and time of year, so be sure to contact your yacht broker well in advance who can help you secure your perfect yacht and itinerary, including any nights you wish to spend in marinas.

The best time to visit during your yacht charter really depends on your destination;

New England – May-September, although shoulder months are a great time to avoid the crowds. 

Florida – November-April. Be sure to avoid the hurricane season from July-October. 

Southwest – May-November, although this region can be enjoyed all year round.

Pacific Northwest – June-September, although shoulder months of May and early October are also worth considering.

To give you an idea of which yachts are available, you can browse the complete fleet of North American charter yachts on our site. If you make an enquiry, a yacht charter broker will be in touch to provide you with a custom charter proposal based on your requirements.

Alternatively, please speak with your preferred yacht charter broker , who can help you find the ideal yacht and itinerary for you and your charter party. 

Speak with your yacht broker who can arrange to secure your chosen yacht on your selected dates. Your broker will then draw up a legally binding agreement for you both to sign, along with the yacht owner and captain. 

Depending on the type of contract, usually a standard agreement with terms applicable to the destination, you will be required to pay 50% of the base charter fee, plus a further 25-30% to cover additional costs incurred whilst on charter, such as fuel, food and drink and marina fees. 

To find out more, read our guide on yacht charter costs , which details the costs involved when booking a yacht charter. For more information, please speak with a  yacht broker . 

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Luxury yacht sinks off Sicily, leaving U.K. tech magnate Mike Lynch, 2 Americans among those missing

By Anna Matranga

Updated on: August 20, 2024 / 7:47 PM EDT / CBS News

Rome  — Six people, including two U.S. nationals, a British technology entrepreneur and one of his daughters, were still missing Tuesday after a large luxury sailing yacht sank off the coast of the southern Italian island of Sicily during a violent storm. The 184-foot Bayesian had been anchored about half a mile off the port of Porticello, near Palermo, with 22 people on board — 10 crew members and 12 passengers.

The vessel sank at about 5 a.m. local time (11 p.m. Eastern, Sunday) after being hit by a possible waterspout spawned by the storm. Italian media said the winds snapped the boat's single mast, unbalancing the vessel and causing it to capsize.

Fifteen of those on board managed to escape the yacht and were rescued by a Dutch-flagged vessel that was anchored in the immediate vicinity. They were brought ashore by Italian Coast Guard and firefighters.

One body — an unidentified male — was recovered, but six people remained missing, including British software magnate Mike Lynch, once described as Britain's Bill Gates. 

Lynch was acquitted in June of fraud charges in the U.S. that could have landed him with a decades-long prison sentence. In an unusual twist, Lynch's co-defendant in that fraud case, who was also acquitted, died Saturday after being hit by a car while out jogging in England.

Lynch's teenage daughter Hannah was also among those missing, along with Lynch's American lawyer Chris Morvillo, a former assistant district attorney in New York, and his wife Neda. British banker Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, was also still missing Tuesday.

Among the survivors was a 1-year-old British girl who was being treated at a nearby hospital along with her parents. They were doing well, according to Italian media.

"For two seconds I lost my child to the sea, then I immediately was able to grab her again in the fury of the waves," the girl's mother, identified only as Charlotte, was quoted as saying by Italy's ANSA news agency. "I held on to her tightly in the stormy sea. Many were screaming. Luckily the life raft opened up and 11 of us managed to get aboard."

"It was terrible," she told ANSA. "In just a few minutes the boat was hit by a very strong wind, and sunk soon thereafter."

Karsten Borner, the captain of the Dutch vessel that came to the rescue, told ANSA he had been anchored near the Bayesian.

"When the storm was over we noticed that the ship behind us was gone, and then we saw a red flare, so my first mate and I went to the position and we found this life raft drifting, and in the life raft was also a little baby and the wife of the owner."

Recovery efforts were back underway Tuesday, with speedboats, helicopters and divers continuing to search for the missing — as well as for answers, as to how a state-of-the-art superyacht could disappear in a flash. 

According to Italian media, Fire Brigade divers reached the boat and saw bodies trapped inside some of the cabins, but they had been unable to recover any of the victims from inside the vessel by Tuesday, due to obstructions. The Bayesian appeared to have sunk in an area with a depth of about 160 feet.

Witnesses said the boat sank quickly. 

"I was at home when the tornado hit," fisherman Pietro Asciutto told a local news outlet. "I immediately closed all the windows. Then I saw the boat, it had only one mast, it was very large. I suddenly saw it sink... The boat was still floating, then suddenly it disappeared. I saw it sink with my own eyes."

The director-general of Sicily's civil protection agency, Salvatore Cocina, confirmed to CBS News partner BBC News  that three of the six people still missing Monday were British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, whose company Autonomy Corporation PLC was acquired in 2011 by HP ; one of his daughters, Hannah Lynch, who is believed to be 18; and the boat's chef, Ricardo Thomas.

CBS News has seen corporate documentation showing a company called Revtom, solely owned by Lynch's wife Angela Bacares, who was among those rescued from the accident, as the owner of the yacht that capsized off Sicily. 

While the yacht was a privately owned pleasure boat, the waters around the island have claimed many lives over the last decade.

Dozens of migrants have died attempting to reach Sicily and smaller Italian islands in the region. Sicily sits only about 100 miles from the east coast of Tunisia in north Africa, and the Mediterranean crossing has been a frequent site of both nautical rescues and disasters as smugglers routinely send small boats overloaded with desperate people into the sea.

CBS News' Chris Livesay in Rome and Joanne Stocker in London contributed to this report.

Joanne Stocker and Alex Sundby contributed to this report.

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A Waterspout Was Seen When a Luxury Yacht Sank. What Is It?

Witnesses reported seeing the tornado-like phenomenon hit the Bayesian, a sailing yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday.

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By Eve Sampson

What caused the sinking on Monday of a sailing yacht carrying the British billionaire Mike Lynch and 21 other people off the coast of Sicily is still unknown. But some attention has focused on observations by witnesses, who described seeing a small tornado-like column known as a waterspout forming over the water during an abrupt and violent storm as the vessel sank.

Fifteen passengers on the 180-foot yacht, the Bayesian, escaped on a raft before being rescued by a neighboring cruise ship. The body of the ship’s cook was recovered on Monday and six people remain unaccounted for , including Mr. Lynch and his daughter Hannah, according to officials with Sicily’s civil protection agency.

Prosecutors in the nearby city of Termini Imerese have opened an inquiry into the cause of the sinking.

Here is what to know about waterspouts, a surprisingly common weather phenomenon that may have helped sink the luxury yacht.

What are waterspouts?

Waterspouts are columns of spinning air and moisture — similar to tornadoes over water, according to the National Weather Service .

While some form in fair weather, and are aptly called fair weather waterspouts, another more dangerous variety called tornadic waterspouts develops downward from a thunderstorm. These tornadic waterspouts can either form as regular tornadoes over land and move out to sea, or form in a storm already over a large body of water, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association .

Fair weather waterspouts are weak, often dissipate quickly and do not cause major damage, according to the agencies, but tornadic waterspouts are more often associated with high winds, dangerous and frequent lightning, and hail. The Italian authorities recorded strong winds and intense lightning activity at the time the yacht went down.

How common are waterspouts?

Experts say waterspouts may be more common than tornadoes, but because oceans are so vast, they are more difficult to track — and as difficult to predict.

“The Mediterranean is possibly one of the places where waterspouts are most likely around the world due to the warm ocean surface and a climate that is very susceptible to thunderstorms throughout the summer and autumn,” according to a statement by Peter Inness, a meteorologist at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Inness pointed to a 2022 study by scientists from University of Barcelona , which found that waterspouts occurred more frequently over warmer sea surfaces. The North Atlantic ocean has been unusually hot for over a year, repeatedly reaching record highs for the time of year , according to data from the oceanic association.

The International Centre for Waterspout Research on Monday said on X , the platform formerly known as Twitter, that it had confirmed 18 waterspouts near Italy in recent days, and several fishermen in the area of the accident told Italian media that they had witnessed a waterspout near the yacht.

What may have happened?

Karsten Börner, the captain of the nearby boat that rescued the 15 passengers, said in an interview that he saw the Bayesian about 490 feet away before the wind and lightning picked up.

While it was difficult to see what happened amid the storm, “my theory was that she was capsized first and then went down over the stern,” he said.

Towering over 237 feet tall, the Bayesian mast was one of the tallest aluminum masts in the world and it also had a special keel that could be raised or lowered, according to its manufacturer, Perini Navi. A keel is the downward-extending centerline underneath a boat that can help stabilize the vessel.

“In this case, having a tall aluminum mast would not make it the safest port to be in case of a storm,” said Andrea Ratti, associate professor of nautical design and architecture technology the Politecnico di Milano.

He added that “a lot of questions will remain until we have other elements at our disposal.”

Elisabetta Provoledo contributed reporting.

Eve Sampson is a reporter covering international news and a member of the 2024-25 Times Fellowship class, a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Eve Sampson

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Breaking news, i lived ‘below deck’ on a luxury yacht — here’s what you need to know.

Tahiti, St. Thomas and the French Riviera — I’ve yachted in all of these exotic locales, albeit from the comfort of my couch. And, millions of Americans are in the same boat.

In 2013, “Below Deck,” introduced the masses to the most glamorous mode of traveling: yachting. Since then, it’s become a Bravo mainstay with Season 9 of “Below Deck Mediterranean’’ premiering in June.

But how real is the reality show? I spent five nights on a yacht in Croatia to find out.

A tip on tipping

My suitcase wasn’t bursting with Benjamins. An agency at your final destination provides cash for the crew’s tip money. While you’re expected to tip $30,000 for a two-night cruise on “Below Deck,” in real life you only have to tip 10% to 15% of your charter fee. That’s about $10,000 for a two-night cruise on a 180-foot charter yacht like Mustique (from $250,000 a week), which stars in the new season.

According to Zvonimir Androi, president of the yacht charter company Via Croatia, more often than not, the tip comes from what’s left over after provisioning.

So, shun the Dom Pérignon and skip the beluga caviar, and you’ll have money to spare.

What’s up, dock?

In real life, “Below Deck’s” favorite commercial-break cliff-hanger isn’t nearly as dramatic. Docking in our yacht, Via Croatia’s five-cabin, 100-foot Adriatic Escape (from $52,800 a week), was breezy.

I asked the crew if they hated setting up the slide — a tortuous, Herculean task if you believe what you see on TV.

“It’s not that bad,” a twentysomething Croatian deckhand, as cute as his on-screen counterparts, told me. “That said, we’re definitely not sad if you don’t ask for it.”

Play it cool

Despite being served meat on more than one occasion, my vegetarian co-guests on board weren’t divas when it came to cuisine — a major source of chef-related stress on the show.

Tantrums aren’t the norm Barbie Pascual, the “Below Deck” stewardess famous for putting up with former “RHONY” star Jill Zarin’s demands for the perfect Diet Coke in the “Real Housewives of Grenada” episode, tells me. “Guests know they are being filmed so their reactions are more extreme than they’d be if the cameras weren’t around,” she says.

Pascual’s biggest tip for first-time yachters? Don’t go skinny dipping, like they do on the show, after dark.

“People forget about currents, sharks, etc.,” she says. “Jumping in the water should always be with the captain’s consent!”

Our humorless Croatian yacht captain was a far cry from “Below Deck Mediterranean’s” affable Captain Sandy Yawn. I think we only saw him twice over the course of four days, and he definitely didn’t join us for dinner.

That was fine by us because the stews and deckhands were always handy with anything we needed — including at chat.

Asking for it

“No” is a word you’ll never hear on a yacht, unless there is a safety issue, Pascual says.

While we didn’t ask our crew to do a striptease or decorate for ‘70s night (two recurring requests on the show), out-there demands aren’t out of the question, as long as you’re willing to pay for it.

For example, Via Croatia is currently retrofitting one of its multimillion-dollar superyachts for an upcoming charter booked by a multigenerational Jewish family from Florida.

“In addition to paying the charter fee, the client is literally buying everything new: pots, pans, silverware, etc.” said Androi. “They’re even spending $30,000 on a new tender for the elderly mother-in-law.”

Now, I’m no reality show producer, but a picky primary trying to keep his wife, her elderly mom and their kosher kids happy at sea has the makings of an Emmy Award-winning episode.

Yachting on a budget

Charters are cheapest at the beginning and end of a destination’s season. Via Croatia’s yuppiest yacht, the 160-foot, 12-cabin Agape Rose , fetches $200,000 a week in July and August. But it’s just $164,000 a week in April and October. Divide that by 24 of your closest friends and family and it’s just $6,800 a person.

If that’s still too much, consider booking a yacht club suite on one of MSC Cruises ’ Mediterranean voyages.

Sure, you’ll be on a cruise liner, but for $1,659 a person you’ll be treated to seven nights of private butler service with a private pool and restaurant that the pleb passengers don’t even know exists.

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Moment luxury yacht sinks off coast of Italy caught on camera, with 6 presumed dead

Grainy CCTV footage shows the moment a storm struck the Bayesian luxury yacht, which sank Aug. 19, 2024, off the coast of Italy. Six people are missing, officials say. (Giornale di Sicilia)

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UK's Mike Lynch missing after yacht sinks off Sicily, source says

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Superyacht sinks latest: Mother of crew survivor speaks out; CCTV captures yacht seconds before it sinks

The search for six people missing after a superyacht sank in a tornado off Sicily continues. Listen to a Daily podcast special as you scroll - as our correspondents and guests examine why the disaster happened.

Tuesday 20 August 2024 22:53, UK

• Superyacht sinking
• Search for survivors after superyacht disaster in 'critical 24 hours'
• Six missing - including tech boss, Morgan Stanley executive and top lawyer
• Crew survivor 'spared by grace of God' - as staff named
• Captain speaks out for first time
• Divers limited to 10 minutes underwater struggle to access cabins
• Watch: CCTV captures yacht seconds before it sinks
• Explained: What causes waterspouts? | Inside the superyacht
• Listen to the Daily podcast above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

We're pausing our coverage for tonight but here is a recap of what we know:

• Six people are still missing after the sinking of the Bayesian superyacht, with rescue teams searching off the Sicilian coast for survivors;
• The Italian coastguard confirmed that the body found after the yacht sank yesterday is that of chef Recaldo Thomas;
• The coastguard also named more survivors - Leah Randall, Katja Chicken and Leo Eppel;
• An engineer who led the salvage operation for the wrecked cruise ship Costa Concordia said rescue divers have entered a "critical" 24 hours; 
• The captain of Bayesian spoke for the first time, saying: "We didn't see it coming" in reference to the storm that sank the boat.

Images are emerging of emergency crews working near the site where the yacht sank in Porticello.

Search and rescue efforts by sea and air have so far delivered no results and experts have said we are in a "critical" 24 hours.

Bayesian was moored around half-a-mile off the coast of Porticello when it sank at around 5am local time yesterday.

A friend of Recaldo Thomas, the chef who was killed as the yacht sank, has described him as a "calm spirit" who had a "smile that lit up the room".

Gareth Williams, who grew up with Mr Thomas in Antigua, told the BBC : "I can talk for everyone that knew him when I say he was a well-loved, kind human being with a calm spirit.

"He would come over to mine over the weekend and he would sing. He had the deepest, most sultry voice in the world, and a smile that lit up the room.

"He told me just the other day that he needed to work two more seasons to fix up his late parents' house. He loved yachting, but he was tired."

Mr Thomas was also a Canadian citizen. The country's foreign ministry said it was "aware of reports that a Canadian citizen has died" and that consular officials were in contact with local authorities.

Mike Lynch "lost the last 12 years fighting a ridiculous case", his co-founder has told Sky News.

David Tabizel, who founded the software company Autonomy with Mr Lynch - the sale of which became the subject of the US fraud case - said he was a "legend" and that he had a "very soft spot for him".

"I'm just heartbroken for him and his family and I hope there's a miracle about to occur," he said.

Mr Tabizel said Mr Lynch's "resilience" and "importance to British economy cannot be overstated". 

"Now he has passed through this great trauma we were hoping he would lead a new national revolution to help Britain out of its current moribund state," he said.

"If anyone has the resilience to survive this - he does. And I hope he's found an air pocket."

Mr Tabizel added: "He has been one of the most influential, intelligent and most honourable human beings I have ever had the honour of knowing."

Mr Lynch sold Autonomy to US computing giant Hewlett-Packard for $11bn (£8.6bn).

He was accused of conspiracy and attempted fraud over the sale to HP and an intense, multiyear legal battle in the US ensued.

He was acquitted of multiple fraud charges in June after more than a year under house arrest.

CCTV footage showing the yacht moments before it sank has been released.

We reported on separate footage earlier, shot from a villa 200m away from the site of the disaster in Porticello.

The owner of the villa told outlet Giornale Di Sicilia the shots showed the boat sinking in 60 seconds: "You can clearly see what is happening. There was nothing that could be done for the vessel. It disappeared in a very short time."

Experts have said we're in a critical 24 hours in the search for survivors.

Earlier, Nick Sloane, who led the salvage operation for the wrecked cruise ship Costa Concordia, said survivors might be trapped in air pockets, but that time was running out to save them (see post at 12.50pm).

Now Dr Jean-Baptiste Souppez, senior lecturer in mechanical engineering at Aston University, has said the speed at which the vessel sank (a few minutes, according to accounts) and the fact that it remains intact "could favour the formation of small air pockets inside".

While the formation is "highly speculative", he says, there are records of survivors found in such pockets.

"A sign the rescuers may be looking for is a banging noise at regular intervals: this is common practice on submarines, and was one of the signs the search mission for the Titan submarine was looking for after it went missing last year," he says.

"But whether air pockets formed on the Bayesian is simply impossible to predict."

There is a "big question mark" over how the superyacht sunk, the editor-in-chief of BOAT International has told Sky News.

Stewart Campbell said "nothing like this had happened before" in his recollection.

"These boats are built extremely tough. They are built to take on the biggest seas the ocean can throw at them," he said.

"Big volume aluminium boats are very capable. So the fact that a boat like Bayesian can sink in a storm like this is incredibly surprising."

He said even if a ship like this was knocked down "it should be been able to right itself".

"Even if the boat had been dismasted, theoretically the boat should have been even more stable as it would have meant less weight and the keel would then have anchored the boat more firmly in the sea.

"There are lots of questions to be answered.

"At the moment from my point of view and from the people I have spoken to, including captains of similar boats, there is a big question mark over how this happened."

The action of the boat when it was struck by the storm "would have been incredibly violent" and "it should have woken everybody up".

"The crew would have sprung into action and tried to get everyone into life rafts if they thought the boat was in danger," he said.

"We just don't know what situation the boat was in when this storm struck."

The life raft on which survivors are understood to have escaped the sinking yacht has been pictured in the harbour at Porticello in Sicily. 

Earlier, Karsten Borner, the captain of a boat that came to their aide, described how he and his crew found the raft with 15 survivors inside and brought them to his ship until help arrived.

He described the situation as "awful and traumatic" for those involved - you can read his comments in full in our post at 10.55am.

Why did the yacht sink? What is happening with the investigation? Who is missing - and why are conspiracy theories already brewing?

Our correspondent Ashna Hurynag, who is at the scene in Sicily, and Danny Fortson, West Coast correspondent for The Sunday Times, who interviewed missing Mike Lynch only weeks ago, answer these questions on today's episode of the Daily podcast, with host Niall Paterson.

You can listen above - and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts.

 The mother of one of the survivors has said she is "beyond relieved" her daughter's life was spared.

Heidi Randall, the mother of crew member Leah Randall, told Sky News: "I'm beyond relieved that my daughter's life was spared by the grace of God. 

"It doesn't make it any easier living with the heartache of those who have lost their lives or are missing. 

"My very deepest condolences to the chef's family as they formed a great friendship."

Leah Randall, from South Africa, was photographed leaving the coastguard headquarters yesterday, alongside Katja Chicken, her fellow crew member.

The Italian coastguard has also confirmed the name of another crew member.

Leo Eppel was also working on the yacht, spokesman Vincenzo Zagarola said.

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U.S. veteran who fled child porn charges now flies drones for Russia

A former U.S. airman who fled the country to avoid jail time for child pornography charges has resurfaced in Moscow’s propaganda videos, describing his service in the Russian military as a drone operator in eastern Ukraine.

Wilmer Puello-Mota, 28, served in the Air Force security forces, a role akin to a policeman on military bases. His enlistment included a deployment to Afghanistan, according to his service record, where he served in a select group of airmen who protect pilots and aircraft in austere environments.

He rose to the rank of technical sergeant in the Massachusetts Air National Guard before he was kicked out over charges of possessing child pornography and other crimes, officials said, including forging military documents. He fled the United States in January while on bail after he was expected to plead guilty.

Now a reconnaissance drone operator with the call sign “Boston,” Puello-Mota has fought in Ukraine’s occupied Donetsk region, where Russian forces have made bloody gains against Ukrainian troops. In a video published Monday by the Russian Defense Ministry, which describes Puello-Mota as a member of a drone platoon within a motorized rifle unit, he detailed his expertise in base defense.

“I’ve definitely been able to apply some of those skills, leaderships skills, as well,” he says in the video, a New England accent occasionally poking through as he praises his new comrades. The post describes him as a former American citizen; he is pictured with a Russian flag patch affixed to his body armor.

“I don’t consider myself a traitor,” he says. “The United States and Russia are not at war.”

Hundreds of American veterans have volunteered to fight in Ukrainian ranks, and several have been killed in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II. But far less is known about how many Americans have fought under Russian command.

“He said, ‘I joined the Russian army,’ or something like that,” his attorney John M. Cicilline told the Boston Globe in April. “I’m sure he joined the Russian army because he didn’t want to register as a sex offender.”

Messages left for Cicilline and Rory Munns, another attorney who has represented him, were not returned.

After six years of active duty in the Air Force, Puello-Mota transitioned to the Massachusetts Air National Guard in 2019 and joined the 104th Fighter Wing based in Westfield, Mass.

In 2020, he was charged in Rhode Island with possessing child pornography after he reported a gun was stolen from his hotel room. In the subsequent investigation, he told police he was there to meet a woman he earlier believed to be older but was actually 17, according to court documents. Explicit videos and photos of the girl were found on his phone, and she told authorities Puello-Mota knew she was underage when he received the images, the documents said.

The next year, before his charges were publicly known, he ran unopposed and won a seat on the Holyoke City Council in western Massachusetts. Following the disclosure of his charges, the council attempted to force him from his position but was unsuccessful because he had not been convicted at the time, the Boston Globe reported.

Puello-Mota accumulated several more charges in 2022 after a failed plot to outfox authorities. Seeking a lesser punishment in the child pornography case, Puello-Mota was found to have fabricated a call from his superior officer in the Air National Guard and forged a military memorandum in support of his continued service.

He was removed from the Air National Guard in October 2022, and his security clearance was revoked, officials said. “Criminal activity is not compatible with our values as an organization and will not be tolerated in our ranks,” the Massachusetts National Guard said in a statement.

Puello-Mota was expected to plead guilty over child pornography and forgery charges on Jan. 9. But two days before his appearance, he boarded a flight from Dulles International Airport to Istanbul, according to documents provided by the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office. Months later, he was appearing in videos with the Russian military, with fellow soldiers praising him for demonstrating new drone techniques.

“It appears to be Will in those videos circulating,” Holyoke City Council President Tessa Murphy-Romboletti said Tuesday in an email.

Traveling the "The Road to 10G" in the Pacific Northwest

I was a young guy fresh out of the Marine Corps when I took a job in my wife’s hometown of Atlanta as an installer with a cable company.

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Yacht expert breaks down luxury superyacht tragedy after boat capsizes in freak storm: 'Always limits'

A luxury superyacht like the Bayesian , which capsized and sank early Monday with more than a dozen people on board, is typically built to withstand extreme weather conditions, but not everything is 100% guaranteed, says one expert.

Fox News Digital spoke with eSysman of the YouTube channel eSysman SuperYachts , to find out what could have gone wrong with the vessel.

The host, who identifies publicly as eSysman, told Fox News Digital that a high-caliber yacht like the Bayesian, should typically be able to withstand up to "extreme weather conditions," but qualified that "there are always limits."

"Obviously, any voyage plan will take into account the weather. Wind, wave sizes, and frequencies of the waves will be studied and precise prediction of weather has improved over the years, but it’s still not 100%," eSysman said, noting that it is ultimately the captain who is responsible for the vessel.

WHO IS MIKE LYNCH, THE BRITISH TECH ENTREPRENEUR MISSING AFTER YACHT SANK?

The Bayesian was notable for its single 246-foot mast — one of the world's tallest made of aluminum and which was lit up at night, just hours before it sank. Online charter sites listed it for rent for up to 195,000 euros – or around about $215,000 – a week.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Sicily's civil protection agency said that a tornado over the water known as a waterspout had struck the area overnight.

British tech magnate Mike Lynch and five other people were missing after their luxury superyacht sank during a freak storm off Sicily early Monday, authorities said.

Lynch's wife and 14 other people survived. Lynch was among six people who remain unaccounted for after their chartered sailboat sank off the Italian city of Porticello, near Palermo, sometime after 4 a.m.

"There’s always the possibility of survivors. This is why the search and rescue will keep going, no matter how slim the chances are," eSysman said. "But life expectancy in cold water is short."

If a vessel is caught in high-winds, eSysman, [they] will start their engines, and maneuver into a position where the wind is on the bow, avoiding the beam or the side of the vessel from being against the wind.

"We’re not sure if the yacht was at anchor or was sailing. The eyewitness report seems to suggest the vessel was anchored in the bay, but the AIS data's lost position said she was underway, so we're not sure which is correct," eSysman said.

"AIS" refers to "Automatic Identification System," which is a short-range coastal tracking system used on ships.

Per its YouTube channel, the team at eSysman SuperYachts comprises all serving or ex-maritime professions, with eSysman himself having more than two decades in the industry working on various SuperYachts of all sizes "including some of the largest in the world."

The crew and passengers of the Bayesian hailed from a variety of countries: In addition to Britain and the United States, passengers and crew were from Antigua, France, Germany, Ireland, Myanmar, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain.

The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch is deploying a team of four inspectors to Italy to conduct a preliminary assessment. The Foreign Commonwealth and Development office said it was "providing consular support to a number of British nationals and their families."

Built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, the yacht can accommodate 12 passengers in four double cabins, a triple and the master suite, plus crew accommodations, according to Charter World and Yacht Charters.

Original article source: Yacht expert breaks down luxury superyacht tragedy after boat capsizes in freak storm: 'Always limits'

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Topic: Maritime Accidents and Incidents

Video released by Italian authorities show the stretch of sea near Palermo, Sicily, where the superyacht Bayesian sank.   ( AP: via Vigili del Fuoco )

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people sank off the coast of Sicily, authorities say. 

Fifteen people, including Mr Lynch's wife, have been rescued after the boat was hit by a violent storm at sunrise, according to the Italian Coast Guard. 

What's next?

Divers had located the wreck 50 metres underwater and search operations are continuing. 

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch, his lawyer and four other people are missing after a superyacht carrying 22 people capsized and sank off the coast of Sicily due to bad weather.

Mr Lynch's wife and 14 other people were rescued, including a one-year-old girl, and one person has died.

A person familiar with the rescue operation confirmed to Reuters that Mr Lynch's 18-year-old daughter Hannah has not been accounted for.

The British-flagged, 56-metre Bayesian had a crew of 10 people and 12 passengers, representing British, American and Canadian nationalities, the Italian Coast Guard said.

British tech entrepreneur Mike Lynch is reportedly among those missing. ( Reuters: Henry Nicholls )

Managers of the sailing yacht Bayesian, Camper & Nicholsons, confirmed to the ABC that the Bayesian encountered severe weather and subsequently sank near the Sicilian capital Palermo, Italy, at 4:30am Monday, local time. 

"Our priority is assisting with the ongoing search and providing all necessary support to the rescued passengers and crew," they said. 

Fifteen people were rescued and taken to shore at Porticello, where eight were receiving treatment in hospital and remain in a stable condition, the Italian Coast Guard said.

One body has been recovered and police divers were trying to reach the hull of the ship, which was resting at a depth of 50 meters where it had been anchored.

British Bill Gates missing

Mr Lynch is often dubbed by UK media as "the British Bill Gates" and the BBC confirmed the luxury yacht was tied to his wife, Angela Bacares.

According to maritime data service Equasis, the owner of the the Bayesian is listed as Revtom Ltd, the BBC reported.

Additionally, the yacht's name would resonate with Mr Lynch because his PhD thesis and the software that made his fortune was based on Bayesian theory.

Mr Lynch was acquitted in June by a jury in San Francisco of fraud charges linked to the sale of his software company, Autonomy, to Hewlett-Packard for $US11 billion ($16.4 billion) in 2011.

He said at the time that he was "elated" to be cleared in the criminal trial in which he denied any wrongdoing, and blamed HP for botching the integration of the two companies.

In a separate incident, Mr Lynch's co-defendant in the trial, Stephen Chamberlain, died on Monday after a road accident left him critically injured.

Mr Chamberlain — Autonomy's former vice-president of finance alongside Mr Lynch — had been placed on life support after being hit by a car in Cambridgeshire on Saturday morning.

Rescued baby held above waves 

The coast guard said that rescue efforts had located the wreck at a depth of 50 metres underwater. 

The Italian fire and rescue service agency said search operations at sea were continuing with the coordination of the Italian Coast Guard, in a translated post on the social media platform X. 

One of the survivors, identified only as Charlotte, said she had momentarily lost hold of her 1-year-old daughter Sofia in the water, but then managed to hold her up over the waves until a lifeboat inflated and they were both pulled to safety, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said they were providing support to British nationals.

"We are providing consular support to a number of British nationals and their families following an incident in Sicily, and are in contact with the local authorities"

Captain of nearby boat helped rescue passengers

The captain of a nearby boat that helped to rescue passengers from the Bayesian said that when the storm hit he turned his engine on to keep control of the vessel and avoid a collision with the Bayesian.

"We managed to keep the ship in position and after the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone," Karsten Borner told Reuters.

He said that his crew then found 15 survivors on a life raft, including three who were seriously injured and took them on board before the coast guard picked them up.

"There were 15 people inside," he said.

"Then we communicated with the Coast Guard and after some time, the Coast Guard came and later picked up injured people, and 2 hours later they picked up the other people."

Mr Borner said "a little baby and the wife of the owner" were among the survivors, while the owner of the sunken ship and another child were among those missing.

He described the conditions as "very strong" and said that his vessel was "heeling" but the Bayesian "went flat on the water and then down".

"There was a light and we saw that the ship was aside and then we saw a triangle," he said.

"So I think she went back down."

Storms and heavy rainfall swept Italy in recent days

Prosecutors in the nearby town of Termini Imerese have opened an investigation to look into what had gone wrong.

The Bayesian, seen the night before it sank, has the tallest aluminium mast in the world. ( Reuters: Baia Santa Nicolicchia/Fabio La Bianca )

"The wind was very strong," a coast guard official in Palermo told Reuters.

"Bad weather was expected, but not of this magnitude."

After weeks of scorching heat, storms and heavy rainfall have swept down Italy in recent days — with floods and landslides causing major damage in the north of the country. 

Local media said a fierce storm, including water spouts, had battered the area overnight but skies were clear and seas calm by Monday morning.

The ANSA news agency said the yacht, built in 2008 by the Italian firm Perini Navi, had been moored off the port at Porticello.

The yacht had won a string of awards for its design and can accommodate up to 12 guests in six suites and a crew of 10, according to online specialist yacht sites.

The Bayesian was known for its single 75-meter mast, one of the world’s tallest made of aluminium and which was lit up at night, just hours before it sank.