nick wrote:
I'm planning a sailing charter in the Caribbean around Christmas -
7-10 days with captain for two couples.


Nick,
Check out Barefoot Yacht Charters in St. Vincent
http://www.barefootyachts.com. They are a small but very well run outfit
with a good selection of boats and extremely knowledgeble and friendly
staff. My wife and I bareboated a Beneteau O40 from them a few years ago -
ten days were about right to do St. Vincent to Union Island and return,
including Mustique, Mayreau, Tobago Keys and Bequia, plus some sightseeing
on St. Vincent. For a less-than-two weeks itinerary you'll save a bunch of
time and rough inter-island passage-making if you start from St. Vincent
rather than St. Lucia.

We've previously chartered from several other companies -- no outright
disasters -- but Barefoot was tops in quality of boats, maintenance,
locally relevant advice and personal service. I have no connection with the
company - just a very satisfied customer. Contact me off list if you need
more info.

Scott