Travelers who participate in the Sunsail power catamarans' inaugural season on the Chesapeake Bay will find big savings when they book early.
Vacationers who book a Sunsail power catamaran summer excursion by May 31 will receive a 5 percent discount, saving $160 off the cost of a one-week charter or $80 off the weekend rate. Those who book by June 30 and mention the special introductory offer will receive a free "Welcome Pack," including such items as soda, chips, dips, bread, butter, jam, tea and coffee.
Sunsail has brought the successful self-skippered boating experience long associated with its European sister company, Crown Blue Line, to the U.S.
"The new 34-foot power catamarans are better suited to the North American waters than the cabin cruisers used on Europe's inland waterways," says Peter Cook, Sunsail's U.S. general manager. "Their spacious accommodations feature air conditioning, TV and VCR, CD player, barbecue grill, fully equipped galley (including blender and microwave), hair dryer, bed linens, bath towels and a GPS system. These twin-hull boats are very stable for heightened comfort and safety."
Sunsail's power catamarans provide an alternative to traditional vacation options for both proficient boaters and those with limited boating experience. Vacationers receive a thorough introductory briefing, local cruising guide, navigation chart and Captain's Manual.
"The power cats are quite easy to handle," says Cook. "Those unsure of their boating skills can hire a skipper to join them for a day or for the entire vacation."
The power cats can accommodate up to six people, with two double cabins, a private bath and shower, and a living area that seats eight and converts into a queen-sized bed.
Chesapeake Bay cruises begin at Sunsail's Annapolis base before setting off along the Chesapeake's miles of shoreline with its harbors, bays, rivers, creeks and coves.
Sunsail's power catamarans will begin cruising in southwest Florida in November. Boaters will depart from a base near Fort Myers on the Gulf Coast and head into the secluded waters of the Gulf Intra-Coastal Waterway.
Chesapeake Bay cruises are available through November. Cost for a one-week charter is $3,200 per boat; cost for a weekend charter is $1,600 per boat. For more information, call 888-355-9491.
Posted: 5-12-2003
