GUEST LETTERS
January, 2007
Hi Chris & Julie,
Warm Regards and Best Wishes,
Suzanne & Tim Seen
January, 2006
Dear Julie and Chris,
What a wonderful week!! The best part was the two of you. Thank you for
being so gentle with the old folks, to say nothing of being out of shape.
What a wake up call!!! We now have a goal...Wait until next year.
Question--- how many dominoes? I'm having a hard time finding a set like
yours. We have to practice so we can become Captain (we know Admiral is out
of the question!!! The gang (Bill Jo Mackenzie and Flo) leave for Florida
tomorrow for 2 weeks. We know the weather will not be great but we have a
lot of work to do. Maybe we can take the Stink Pot out for a little cruise.
Chris, it will not be the same, no adventurous sailing, no fine tuning the
sails, and no straw hat!!! We will take our CDs and think of our new
friends on the beautiful Blu Moon and drink a little wine and think of
planning our trip next year on her! So much to say . so little time!!
No----Jan did not get a Willie T tee shirt-----'MOM, I jumped, but the boys
were with us'!!!! Julie I wish I had taken pictures of every meal.. Your presentation was beautiful..I would like any or all recipes. I have my screen saver with all our wonderful pictures and think of you two and remember our wonderful trip everyday. Thank you again for a wonderful week. We miss you both..take care.
Love Jo and Bill
February, 2006
Hi, You Two,
I imagine you're on a sail with another lucky family. Was looking at your
website and a pang of jealousy went through me when I saw all these
strangers sitting on "my" boat, enjoying themselves!! :) How dare they! :)
I can't think of a thing to add to all the nice feedback you two received
from your previous guests. I would simply be repeating what they've already
expressed. Of all our travels, our week with you and Blu Moon was at the
top. For someone who can't relax more than a long weekend, I did NOT want
to go back to home and reality!
I worked like crazy to get all our pictures done and put together in an
online photo album, which arrived in the mail this past Friday. It came out
great. Since returning, I've been attaching beautiful pictures of the BVI's
to emails that I've been sending off to family and friends. (Have a lot of
jealous girlfriends!)
December, 2005
Dear Julie & Chris,
Little does one know what is on the other side of the door when it is opened - but in the case of you two - we found two wonderful people. You two made our trip memorable more ways than you know. Thanks for inviting Charlie to dance and for showing him how to filet a lobster. Thanks for listening to Eliza's music as well as her tales. Finally, thanks for the wonderful Christmas - the decorations and the presents - way over the top.
Good luck this year in the BVI and in France!
With sincere appreciation...
Fred & Debbie
May 2005
We spent our honeymoon aboard the Blu Moon. Neither of us had been on a sailing charter like this before and after the first day it became clear how important it is to sail not just with a crew but with the right crew. We've been on many vacations but this was the most carefree week of our lives. Chris and Julie took care of everything. Not only were they great to be around, but they are so experienced that they anticipate everything youíre going to want and need before it even enters your mind. The toughest decision we had to make all week was whether we wanted a painkiller or a margarita. Chris and Julie take great pride in Blu Moon, and it shows. The boat is nothing short of immaculate. Chris is an expert sailor who not only guided us with the itinerary but provided a wealth of knowledge about sailing, sea life and the islands. He took us to so many great spots, each one more beautiful than the last.
Julie is a wonderful chef. All of her creations were amazing but the dinners were really a highlight. One afternoon Chris caught a gigantic lobster and Julie grilled it for dinner and served it with champagne. We sat at the table listening to music, looking out at the crystal clear water and Jost Van Dyke and I said to my husband, it really doesn't get any better than this. He agreed and I think that pretty much summarizes the whole trip. We can't wait to sail with them again
Jessica & John Richardson
May 2005
Aboard the Blu Moon
When we had made our decision to spend our Honeymoon aboard a crewed charter in the Virgin Islands we had to do some work to find the perfect boat and crew. Not only did we do our homework correct, we scored a perfect 10 with our choice! When it comes the best times in one's life you can't beat the time we spent with Chris and Julie aboard the Blu Moon. From the moment we boarded and were welcomed with a drink and a casual briefing, we felt as if we were at home. The boat is in amazing condition and flawless from bow to stern. Chris and Julie's knowledge and hospitality were far superior to anything we could have expected and just what we dreamed it would be. Shortly after we had settled in, we gave the reins to our crew to plan the activities and destinations base on some simple desires. We then set sail for a week of non-stop enjoyment and camaraderie, the trip was fabulous! We were amazed at what the islands had to offer and how our crew presented them in five star fashion with a touch of class. It was the perfect combination of relaxation, romance, adventure, and did we mention the food. WOW! Between Chris and Julie they have truly found what it takes to offer their guests the best in class and a truly memorable time. As for us, our Honeymoon was something that we will always cherish due the absolute fantastic time and plan on returning for anniversaries in years to come with our new found friends.
Sincerely, Stu & Georgeanne Parker
March 2005
Dear Chris & Julie,
From the moment we first met we only experienced an increasing level of appreciation for your warmth, hospitality and skills. If Blu Moon was merely a junk yard sloop, you would have more than compensated for whatever the boat lacked.
However, as a sailor, we must say that Blu Moon lacked nothing and in fact far exceeded our expectations. Not only was she immaculately clean upon arrival but continued to be so throughout the cruise. It was special that a spinnaker was on board. While most other boats were motoring or flopping around during a light air day we had a wonderful sail.
Chris you must have read our minds by taking us to the exact type of anchorages we hoped far. The "hot" spots you took us to visit (like Willy T's, where Amira earned her T shirt), the secluded anchorages, and the best places to swim and snorkel were just perfect. We won't forget your free dive lobster hunts that rewarded us with a phenomenal lobster dinner.
Julie, there is no way to describe what you do in the galley. The food was totally gourmet, presented as if in the finest of fine restaurants. The decor that you put together for Blu Moon could not have been nicer. Thank you again for the perfect vacation and we'll see you next March.
January, 2005
Dear Broker....
A week on the Bu Moon is a week in heaven! We are still savoring the moments even though we are back in snow covered NJ. We can only say great things about the experience. Julie's cooking was superb. The meals were absolutely perfect. Chris was an excellent captain who made each day an adventure. They knew every secret spot in the BVI's. Their beloved Blu Moon was in absolute tip top shape. She responded to her captain and crew in all conditions. I would recommend this boat and crew to anyone looking for a true sailing vacation.
Betsy and Gunter Ford
June 13, 2004
Dear Chris & Julie,
Thank you for making our honeymoon so special. The whole trip was an amazing experience from your company, to the sailing, to the snorkeling, to the meals and cocktails. We really appreciate you showing us and entertaining us in the B.V.I.
Enjoy your summer in France and we hope to see you soon!
Lauren & C.J. Arrigo
May 23, 2004
Hi Chris and Julie
We have a problem....there was no juice and water waiting for us when we got up this morning and no bagels with bananas to follow!!!! Never mind that Rich isn't even getting lunch today....he was too slow!!! Poor thing.....NOT! At least Tammy offered to cook us dinner tonight so we have one day taken care of for the week. The damn computer keeps swaying and if we move too fast our sea legs kick in and we get real dizzy. We just laugh. Everyone is so jealous of our trip and are excited to see the pictures once we get them up on disc. We got in about 11:30pm due to delays with the weather....which I hope has gotten better for you because it has followed us all the way up from North Carolina to CT. I will be sending pictures of Matt and Nicole in their outfits....Matt had his pirate hat on with his black pirate shirt and was wearing this outfit to school so they ought to get a kick out of that. Nicole loved her outfit and once she spotted the conch shell she just wanted to try blowing it. She actually did it on the 3rd try! Takes after her father I guess! But anyways, we just wanted to say thanks again for a fantastic trip and if you are up in the area please let us know so we get together!! I will let you know by email when we are sending out the CD of the pictures so you can look for it.
We can't thank you enough for this great experience sailing the B.V.I. It has been awesome! Your knowledge and background really shine forth and you made our 20th anniversary celebration a blast! Stay in touch.
Take care!
Rich & Gail Stieglitz
May 13, 2004
Captain Chris & Julie,
Thanks for a terrific trip! Everything has been exceptional...the hospitality, the food, the sailing...and we leave the islands looking forward to our return. Any time you get the bug for treasure hunting (i.e. lost rings) you know we're your crew-just don't ask us to tie knots! We appreciate you sharing Blu Moon and your dreams with us. You're an inspiration to everyone - creating and realizing what you want in life and going after it.
All the best,
Bill & Kara Beckman
April 25, 2004Chris and Julie,
Thank you so much for everything youvve done for us this week. The food was amazing & the company couldnvt have been better. You really made this a great honeymoon for us. Wevll write you and send some pictures over when we get back! Au revoir!
Amy & Jason Burford
"the bee keepers"
April 03, 2004
Hi Julie and Chris,
Sorry this took so long to get to you guys. Things here have been busy (too busy) and we wanted to send pictures along but took a while to get developed. First of all, we wanted to thank you so very much for the awesome trip you gave us. The pictures turned out so well. There may be people calling in the future for a trip! The food was wonderful ( I gained 7 pounds!), the company was great and the trip was relaxing. We came back refreshed and with tans that everyone was jealous of.
Things here have really picked up...graduation/prom/yard work. Bethany wrote an article for the school newspaper about our trip and we thought you might like it. Chris...how do you like Adam's new hat? He wears it all over the place. You have made quite an impression on him. When he grows up he wants to be a sailboat captain! We hope this card finds you both well and happy. We talk about you guys often and really miss you. Take care and we hope to talk to you again soon sometime.
Love, The Hoffmans
(Mark & Kerry, Jeremy, Lindy & AdamÚand friend Bethany Gutsch)
* * * * *
THE VIRGIN ISLANDS - BY: BETHANY GUTSCH
"When I was first asked to write an article about my last Spring Break of high school, I didn't know exactly what to say. I thought about how Spring Break becomes an event that gets increasingly important as a person progresses through childhood and into their early adult years. This Spring Break, the last of my official childhood, I got the amazing opportunity to go sailing through the British and U.S. Virgin Islands with the Hoffman family. This was an experience I will never forget, and a fantastic way to end my childhood Spring Break career. The captain of our boat, Chris, and his wife (and first mate and chef), Julie, were the ones who made our vacation unforgettable. Throughout the week, they took us to some great snorkel spots, where we saw stingrays, sea anemones, and all different types of fish and coral. They also took us to see Michael Bean, a singing pirate. We went to the island of Virgin Gorda and saw The Baths - humongous rock formations on the edge of the ocean, complete with a white-sand beach at the end of the path. Chris and Julie took us to an island full of ruins of a sugar factory from the 1700s. When we weren't exploring these exotic places, we had plenty of time to suntan (or sunburn, in some cases), shop, go to dinner on the islands, and simply relax and unwind. This vacation was unlike any other I have taken because we didn't have a schedule chock-full of certain things to accomplish. Instead, we got to be laid back and enjoy the gorgeous island weather, scenery and each other's company. I don't think my last childhood Spring Break could have been any better. Thanks to Jeremy, Lindy, and the Hoffmann family, I had the experience of a lifetime and came back with a ton of great memories (and a pretty good tan too!)."
November 10, 2003
Dear Chris & Julie,
Thank you so much for a wonderful week of sailing, snorkeling & amazing meals! You two were very gracious hosts and worked so hard to make our vacation special. Thank you for everything! Good luck this season.
Best regards,
Christy & John Abele
Post Charter Comments:
"Julie & Chris take great pride in their boat and keep it exceptionally clean. Boat was beautiful-extremely clean, pristine condition. We are still laughing about what a decadent vacation this was. Sailing on the Blu Moon was a ridiculously good experience. Very High-End! Chris was a very good captain. Knowledgeable & talkative. Very capable! My wife requested the recipes from almost every meal. The food was gourmet - much better than we expected - all equivalent to a high-end restaurant. We felt like J&A Onasis living large on a yacht! The crew was very pleasant, professional, knowledgeable & friendly. We feel lucky to be one of the few customers that get to experience a sailing trip w/them - we cannot say enough positive things about Chris & Julie."
Chris and Julie
Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation. We really, really, enjoyed the sailing and lovely meals. Thank you for working so hard to make our vacation memorable.
Fondly,
Sarah & Tom Timko
March 16, 2003
Charter review: FORD & LaPLANTE
How did you enjoy your charter? We had a perfect vacation on the Blu Moon.
Did you find your crew to be helpful, accommodating and friendly? Chris and Julie were great fun to be with, very accommodating in every way, dedicated to seeing that we had a great time.
Was the yacht comfortable, clean and well maintained? Blu Moon is beautiful, spotless. Chris and Julie obviously take great pride in her and she is polished to perfection.
How would you describe the quality and presentation of the meals served on board? I have never had such wonderful meals, consistently spectacular. The meal presentations were works of art to look at and just delicious. Julie is an outstanding chef.
How did you find the services offered by [broker]? Helpful as always. You can certainly be confident in recommending Blu Moon to other charters customers.
Would you be interested in taking another yacht vacation in the future? Yes we are but have not decided when.
If so, would you like to charter the same yacht and crew? Definitely.
Are there any further comments or suggestions you would like to make to enable [broker], the yacht, or crew to better serve you and other clients in the future? I wouldn't know what to suggest - we were pleased in every way.
May we use you as a reference? yes
February 07, 2003
The boat was in superb condition and is obviously looked after with tender loving care. Both Chris and Julie are very proud of their craft and do the utmost to keep it up in immaculate conditions at all times. All the advertised equipment was on board and in good condition. We particularly enjoyed the kayaking. The boat was very comfortable and our crew outgoing and professional. We loved Chris and Julie and felt very fortunate to have them as our skipper and first mate! Chris was happy to give us instruction as we requested and he encouraged each of us to take a turn at the helm. The food was "to die for"! Julie is a fabulous cook and hostess. Cathie and I wondered if we could ever cook again and feel good about it after enjoying her delicious and beautifully presented cuisine! We think our husbands would like to have taken her home in their duffle bag. Everything was great, we would be happy to be used as reference.
Cathie & Scott Brenner, Judy & Larry Phillips Canada
January 13, 2003
My bride and I had a fantastic honeymoon at the beginning of January. We used [a charter yacht broker] to set this charter up for us. I can't recommend [the broker] and Blu Moon more highly. What can I say about Blu Moon? Read the guest comments. It's all true, but still doesn't fully express what an unbelievably excellent vacation they provided. Before I get into the itinerary here are some general comments:
- The sleeping quarters were HUGE. Chris and Julie converted the two forward berths into one, big honeymoon suite, with two bathrooms (one head and one shower).
- Blu Moon was beautiful (Beneteau 510) and kept impeccably clean and well-maintained
- The meals, drinks and snacks were all top notch it was truly amazing what Julie could accomplish in the galley. I won't get into the specifics of each meal (unless you want me to), but I can't imagine the food being any better.
- On 3 or 4 nights we were the only ones in sight. It was amazing how Chris could find such idyllic anchorages.
- Chris and Julie were the perfect hosts. They seemed to anticipate our every need and always made sure we had enough privacy to make our honeymoon special. They were also a lot of fun. We played games, listened to great tunes and truly enjoyed their company.
- We had great weather - hardly any rain at all. However, winds were very light all week so the sailing was not ideal. As a result, we opted not to go to Anegada as it would have been very slow going. This was only slightly disappointing and it gives us a good reason to return.
Here was our itinerary (forgive me if I got some of the names of the anchorages slightly wrong):
Monday - we flew Cape Air from San Juan to St. Thomas. We loved Cape Air!! After an adventurous taxi from the airport to Red Hook, we had lunch at Molly Malone's in American Yacht Harbor. Chris and Julie found us and we dinghied out to Blu Moon. After a quick safety briefing and orientation we sailed to Whistling Cay (just off of Mahoe Bay) in St. John. We were all alone in this fantastic anchorage - great snorkeling right off the back of the boat.
Tuesday - we made our way to West End and cleared BVI customs. After a short walk around Soper's Hole we sailed to the Indians for another great snorkel. After lunch we anchored just outside the Bight at Norman Island at a spot called Water Point. This was another beautiful, secluded anchorage (around the corner from the crowds in the Bight) with great snorkeling right off the back of the boat. As the sun was setting Chris led us on a great snorkel of the caves. The light was perfect at this time of day. Amazing! After dinner we went to Willie T's, but it was pretty dead. I guess we missed you guys that were there the night before.
Wednesday - After a great morning snorkel at Water Point we made our way to Peter Island. We spent the afternoon on the beach at Deadman's Bay. This has to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the planet - and it was nearly deserted. We will definitely be going back to this spot on our next trip. After a few hours we made our way around the back side of Virgin Gorda to South Sound. Once again, we were the only boat in sight.
Thursday - After breakfast and am exploration of South Sound by dinghy and snorkel, we made our way around to Eustatia Sound. Chris dropped us off at the Bitter End. We wandered around, bought some T-shirts and hiked over to Biras Creek. By the time we got back to Blu Moon the North swells convinced us to spend the night in Deep Bay (or Long Bay???) right in front of Biras Creek's beach. Another idyllic, secluded anchorage.
Friday - Bright and early, Chris dinghied us over to Leverick Bay, where we met up with our tax driver/tour guide, Nat. He drove us to the Baths, stopping at various scenic overlooks. We had a great time at baths, had lunch at the restaurant at the top of the Baths and then on the drive back to Leverick Bay we stopped and hiked to the top of Gorda Peak. Very cool - lots of snakes!!! While we were out exploring Chris and Julie took care of getting more water and other such maintenance chores. We spent the night anchored out in Calhoun's Reef, with great views of the surrounding islands.
Saturday - We sailed down to a VG bay just before Savannah Bay. I can't remember the name but there was more great snorkeling and a nice little beach. After lunch we sailed through the Dogs (too swelly to snorkel so we'll be back here next time) and anchored at Marina Cay. This was our first crowded anchorage, but not too shabby. More great snorkeling. We went ashore before dinner in hopes of seeing Michael Bean, but he only plays M-F. Oh well, we had a few painkillers and went back to Blu Moon for another gourmet dinner.
Sunday - In the morning, we headed out along the North shore of Tortola on our way to Jost Van Dyke. We had lunch at Little Jost, just inside of Sandy Spit. Amazing snorkeling with the pelicans diving into huge clouds of silversides and big schools of tarpon. We took a walk around Sandy Spit (what a cool place). After lunch we sailed to White Bay and had a nice afternoon at the Soggy Dollar, playing bocci on the beach. For a more comfortable sleep, Chris brought us to Great Bay for the night. We were so tired that we didn't make it to Foxy's.
Monday - A sad sail back to St John to clear US customs and then Chris and Julie dropped us off in Charlotte Amelie since we were going to spend the night Hotel 1829.
Rich & Amanda Sklar
November 12, 2002
Hi Julie & Chris,
Scott and I would like to thank you for making our honeymoon so special. Your website says that you arrive as guests and leave as friends...we couldn't agree more! It didn't take us long to see what wonderful people you were, and we had an absolutely fantastic trip largely due to the two of you.
From beginning to end, our trip aboard the Blu Moon far exceeded our expectations. From having Chris at the helm showing us some sailing techniques and sharing funny stories (and racing other boats!) to having Julie as first mate and master chef, we had an unbelievable week. Julie, your cooking was so wonderful we are still talking about it. Luckily I was still able to button my jeans when I got home! It goes without saying how beautiful the Blu Moon was. You keep everything so impeccably clean and neat!
Thank you for bringing us to all of the special spots for snorkeling and anchoring for the night. It was great to have you guys lead us in the snorkeling trips with your expertise. If it wasn't for you, we would have missed a lot of the beauty of the islands.
Although we are back to our normal routine, we have never felt so relaxed. It was very hard to put shoes and nylons on to go back to work!
We couldn't have picked a better way to spend our honeymoon, and we thank you. I know we can't compete with Julie's cooking and Chris' cocktails, but if you ever find yourself in the Boston area, we would love to have you as guests in our home.
Warmest regards,
Sandy & Scott Sawyer
April 06, 2002
Dear Chris & Julie:
We could not have had a better, more enjoyable, more relaxing, finer dining, more fascinating or just plain fun vacation than we had with you two. The pictures are simply a glimpse as to how wonderful it was. Each time new groups of friends or family come over, we are so excited to share our photos and stories. We felt lucky that fate put us together and truly look forward to the day when we can return.
The fresh nutmeg! We weren't even to the St. Thomas airport and I remembered I left it in the drink holder on the boat. It was such a sweet surprise that you sent it to us. I was so bummed that I had left it behind, it was such a treat on your drinks and desserts. Thank you for making the effort to get it to us. I've been putting it in all types of things and always think of you.
So far, we have made your chicken, key-lime pie (Michael's favorite), apple crisp and peanut butter/chocolate mousse; all were big hits. Your exceptional cooking and nightly cocktail surprises will always be a keen memory to us. Julie you are a master in the galley (not to mention 1st mate)! We have never eaten so consistently well on any vacation. So fresh, tasty and healthy. We came home feeling fabulous. Energized, well rested and trim. How many vacations can you go on and come home feeling like that?
Then, to be blessed with such a knowledgeable, skillful and generous captain. I hope Chris knows how much (Dick especially) appreciated his sharing of the helm. Dick had never experienced a captain so talented and yet willing to give up his position to a guest. What a treat. Then, all the fabulous moorings. All the secluded spots we visited blow people away. How each spot looked so different and the water another shade from the last.
Blu Moon is so incredibly beautiful. All the gorgeous woodwork Chris has done and attention to maintain it all. Julie's decorating taste and ability to make Blu Moon comfortable and elegant is a real talent. We could not have chosen a better way or better boat to celebrate Dick's 60th birthday.
And then there was the chicken foot! Okay, we became addicted. It took us 3 months to track down the right set of dominos and luckily Michael has a great memory and was able to remember the rules, because the domino set didn't come with your particular game. It became our summer evening ritual with a running score that ended up we owed Michael $3 by the end of the summer. Yet another thing to thank you for. You both made Michael's vacation, he too will never forget. Everyone kept asking if Michael was bored and we could easily respond - never.
As you can tell, even though you may have felt you were far from our thoughts, you have been a part of us on a daily basis. How blessed we were to sail Blu Moon, especially for Michael and I - our maiden voyage. Your attention to detail, and making your guests feel special and at home are true gifts. Thank you for sharing your amazing boat and yourselves. We will never forget you.
Wishing you all the best and with hopes of a reunion.
Much love,
Dick, Merrilee and Michael Plesha
November 18, 2001
Our charter on Blu Moon with Chris and Julie was fantastic. The crew was wonderful with the kids, even organizing a treasure hunt which was an unexpected and special thrill for Adam. The yacht was comfortable and well maintained, the area we sailed beautiful and the food absolutely fantastic. We definitely recommend this boat and crew and have in fact already referred friends!
Joanne & Frank Vaul, Lindsey & Adam
February 25, 2001
Being welcomed aboard Blu Moon by Chris and Julie is much like visiting two old friends who have moved their lives to this magical place, and are now your personal hosts and guides. They are always anxious and excited to show off the local secrets they have discovered. From taking us to the best secret anchorages to the most fun restaurants, from the most fascinating snorkel explorations to the best hikes and outings, Chris and Julie provide all this while making us feel like we are the most pampered guests afloat. The accommodations and the cuisine are first class, with every detail thoughtfully maintained and prepared for the delight of the guests. We consider it one of the very best vacations ever!
Scott Smith & Mary Culley
Dear Chris and Julie,
How are our favorite bennettoes? We just had too damn much fun, relaxation, great food, and great company, and are happier than ever to be alive. Our greatest memory banks are now replete with the sights and sounds of a beautiful but all too quick Blu Moon Caribbean stay. Nowhere (land or sea) can there be found better service, better food, better atmosphere, or more fun performed in an effortless and casual way...all the things you look for in a GREAT vacation! Thanks so much for being such wonderful hosts. Have a great season and sail safely (is there any other way with Captain Chris and first mate Julie?).
Buz & Kate Roberts
March 05, 2001
Dear Julie and Chris,
We are writing you this to thank you for our wonderful trip. It didn't take long to get into our regular busy routine, so we never got the chance to say thank you. We never imagined that our trip would be so wonderful. Each day was filled with something new. It was great to have the knowledge and guidance of the both of you to show us where all the "special" places were. We got to see places we would have never seen if we had stayed at a resort or had taken a cruise. I am so glad we had the chance to experience the islands for "real".
We appreciate how well you maintain your boat and how you went above and beyond to make our stay so relaxing and "carefree". From learning a little about sailing, to eating the best cheesecake we have ever had, we certainly enjoyed every minute of our trip. We simply cannot say enough about our stay aboard the Blu Moon. We could not have chosen a better place or nicer people to spend our honeymoon with. We can't wait until the next time we board the Blu Moon.
Thank you again for giving us the chance to make so many nice memories.
Sincerely,
Colleen and Greg West
December 10, 2000
Dear Chris and Julie,
What can we say but..."Wow"! What an absolutely fantastic time we had aboard "Blu Moon". This was our first experience chartering a sailboat-and I have to say that we could not have imagined a more perfect choice.
My main request in choosing a boat, was one that exhibited "understated elegance". Well, "Blu Moon" simply exudes charm and class. We found the boat to be impeccably clean, both inside and out. As well as being equipped with so many fun amenities to play with. From the cozy hammock on deck, two sea kayaks, floating tanning mattresses, CD stereo-with the greatest collection to choose from, a barbecue on board, and most importantly, plenty of space on deck to enjoy our daily
sailing- with a large canvas to save us from too much sun. Below deck, was very comfy as well. That's saying a lot, since Alan is 6'4 1/2 inches tall!
You both work exceptionally well together. Such a terrific team with many talents-funny, charming- and very easy to be with. Julie, you certainly spoiled us with your culinary delights. You both did a great job of creating a tailor-made itinerary that suited our needs perfectly. Thank goodness you knew all the great spots to visit. If being treated like a Prince and Princess is what one is looking for, then I cannot recommend "Blu Moon" more highly!
Warmest regards,
Joan Blake Alan J. Kirsch, Jr.
November 14, 2000
Chris and Julie:
Thanks for one of the most memorable vacations wevve ever had in our young lives. This one will be hard to top. The sailing, snorkeling, sightseeing, exploring and companionship were unforgettable. As for the food, both Mary-Beth and I are going back to the States ten pounds heavier. The food and cocktails were wonderful. Thanks for everything!
Gus & Marybeth Lijo
May 03, 2000
Dear Chris & Julie,
A huge THANK YOU! We have wonderful memories of our trip on Blu Moon! Thanks for going all out to make it special for us.
Although you made it seem so effortless, we appreciate all you did to keep the boat sparkling clean and well maintained throughout the charter; our accommodations were clean and comfortable, and each meal was perfectly wonderful!!
We want you to know that everything exceeded our expectations. Each day was like a dream! Refreshing morning swims and wonderful breakfasts. Sailing, snorkeling, playing, then it was time for Julie's delicious lunches! More sailing and adventures in the afternoons, then it was Happy Hour--a long standing tradition on the Blu Moon--in which we happily participated. (Your signature Blu Moon Margaritas and tasty appetizers are unmatched!)
We relaxed, talked of our adventures, rested and refreshed, then enjoyed the most incredible, full-course dinners, with fresh-baked bread, desserts, the works! (How do you do it??) You prepare the best meals--Great taste, Great presentation!
Each day was unlike the last--the different islands and the adventures; the fun bars and music; We really relaxed. No worries, No rush. Anything we needed was provided with a smile.
Capt. Chris, we appreciated your knowledge and experience at planning the trips and adventures. You always kept us entertained with your stories! Julie, you always took great care of us, making sure we were happy and comfortable. And, that we enjoyed every meal!!
A Huge THANK YOU, Chris and Julie--you are the best. We had the greatest time ever!
Should anyone have questions about our experience, please give them our email address and/or telephone number. We would not hesitate to recommend you. We plan to enjoy another Sail Trip with you in the future.
Happy Sailing
Holly and Bob Frachetti
Denver, Colorado
April 15, 2000
Dear Julie and Chris,
Pete and I were so pleased to hear from you. The photograph that you took of us aboard Blu Moon shows a very relaxed and happy couple. Thanks to your expert care and some great sailing weather we were able to truly leave behind all of the pressures and demands of our hectic lifestyle.
Although it has been a few months since we sailed with you, we are still talking about our great vacation. Happy hour just isn't the same without your exotic island drinks, fabulous food, and great company! And let's not forget the music from your superior CD collection which Pete still raves about.
I've been meaning to thank both of you for helping me become comfortable with snorkeling. You were right. It is another world down there and not one to be missed. The reef you took us to that day was just spectacular, so I'm glad you persuaded me to be adventurous.
We're planning to be in St. Thomas this winter for a company outing from Jan. 26th to 30th. We're also hoping to spend some time afterward on St. John. If you're planning to be in the area, Peter and I would love to see you. Perhaps we can go over to Foxy's for some island nightlife!
Julie, thank you for sending me your recipes for Caribbean Citrus Chicken and Banana Celeste. They were my favorites, and I'm looking forward to making them for summer guests.
Have a wonderful sailing season!
Fondly,
Peter and Susan Boni
