There are few forays as fun as chartering a yacht and filling it with family of different generations experiencing unforgettable activities together. Across the pond, the latest term for this fast-growing trend is “3G” (Three- Generational) vacations, but here we have christened it “togethering”. These are tailor-made charters to suit the whole family with a perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and culture. Northrop & Johnson’s experts give their recommendations on their favorite multi-generation cruising grounds and the yachts on which to explore them this winter.

British Virgin Islands

Castaway Caribbean
A luxury yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands works well because of the excellent range of activities to suit all. Legend has it that Robert Louis Stevenson used Norman Island as the setting for his classic seafaring novel, Treasure Island, which seems likely, given that many real pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard himself, used the islands, rocks, and cays that make up the BVIs as a hideout. Following the trade winds, the buccaneers would find a calm anchorage and hide in the lush hillsides. Today the trade winds bring a different type of seafarer to discover a treasure trove of dive sites. From shallow reefs to shipwrecks, there is something to suit all levels. At Salt Island, your diminutive Jacques Cousteau will find the RMS Rhone a spectacular wreck dive, while the underwater landscape of the Alice In Wonderland coral reef is perfect for novice and intermediate divers.

You must try… The archipelago’s trademark Painkiller Cocktail.

Children will love… Pirate-themed treasure hunts on the original Treasure Island.

Everyone will enjoy… The short passages between islands.

The Yachts…

SEALION

With a fantastic track record for successful family charters, SEALION is a fabulous playground for all ages. Not only does she have a great array of watersports equipment, the split-level sundeck spans nearly half the yacht’s length, providing ample space for the entire family to relax and spend quality time together, perhaps in the oversized 12-person Jacuzzi.

LADY KATHRYN V

Alternatively, the equally popular LADY KATHRYN V is perfect for multi-generational charters. Her dynamic and flexible layout includes a VIP suite on the bridge deck, master on the main, and four double cabins at the waterline. The master suite is the pinnacle of luxury living with a private sea terrace, master salon, and separate office, allowing for privacy when required.The 200’ (61m) LADY KATHRYN V is available to charter in the Caribbean for prices from $450,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.

The Grenadines

The perfect scene
The Grenadines are one of the all-time favorite cruising grounds, thanks in no small part to the choice of islands that appeal to all generations. The older family members will love soaking up the chic island of Mustique, while the more restless members of the group can enjoy the Tobago Cays, where the calm waters protected by the horseshoe reef are perfect for snorkeling and diving. With 32 islands and cays, there is a wide range of activities to suit all, from swimming, fishing, diving, and exploring the islands on foot to simply doing nothing at all.

The Yachts…

IMPROMPTU

Discover the tranquil shores of the Grenadines in comfort aboard the 164’1” (50m) IMPROMPTU. Her toy chest is designed for guests of all ages. For thrill-seekers, experience the exhilaration of IMPROMPTU’s two 3-Person Yamaha VX Cruiser WaveRunners, complete with built-in Bluetooth sound systems. Alternatively, try the SeaBobs or the superfast Lift Electric Hydrofoils. For those seeking relaxation, unwind in the safety and comfort of jellyfish net loungers at the floating beach club. And for added fun, there’s even a water slide. IMPROMPTU is available to charter in the Caribbean for prices from $275,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.

SEA OWL

Another superb yacht cruising the Grenadines is the 203’5” (62m) SEA OWL. Her flexible accommodation includes two cabins on the lower deck that are perfect for children or grandchildren as they can be combined into a spacious bunk room. A large master stateroom and three VIP suites, each with their own distinctive theme, invite guests to join the fantasy, from masquerade balls to pirate adventures. An extra cabin is available for nannies, additional staff, family, or friends, while the bridge deck classroom features a hidden Murphy bed for extra versatility. She also boasts an elevator that serves all her decks. SEA OWL is available to charter in the Caribbean for prices from $460,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.

The Bahamas

 

Vibrant cruising grounds

The Bahamas deserve their moment in the ultimate luxury cruising ground spotlight thanks to their plethora of fun, family-friendly activities. From crystal clear waters for snorkeling to coral walls for diving and hundreds of islands (700-plus) for kayaking, they offer the waterborne a wealth of choice. They are also renowned for their deep-sea fishing, while white sand beaches and nature reserves entice charterers ashore. What is best, though, is their close proximity to each other, making them ideal for charters with younger children.

The Yachts…

COFINA

Space is arguably the most coveted luxury aboard a yacht, and in this regard, the 132’7” (40.42m) COFINA provides the perfect base for a multigenerational charter. She offers six staterooms for up to 12 guests – more than most yachts in her size range – with a variety of easily converted cabins for children and nannies. Her toy collection includes a 37’ Grady White with triple 425hp Yamaha outboards that is fully rigged for fishing. COFINA is available to charter in The Bahamas for prices from $145,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.

TCB

The experienced and well-regarded crew aboard TCB includes the charter-savvy Captain Scott Gaffga. With his in-depth knowledge of The Bahamas, charter guests are treated to the best anchorages in The Exumas. This comes in useful when looking for a quiet spot to use TCB’s impressive array of toys, which include children’s water skis with a full docking system. The 164’ (50m) TCB is available to charter in The Bahamas for prices from $215,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 11 guests.

Costa Rica

Discover the Rich Coast

Costa Rica is the spiritual home of adrenalin-inducing activities and amazing wildlife, making it a sure winner for an unforgettable vacation. With some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet and a pristine coastline, Costa Rica will keep all ages entertained. Some members of the family can head to the reggae beach bars, while others can raft through white water rapids or zipline over the jungle. If this all sounds too much, a gentle hike and a dip beneath the waterfall pools will appeal to all the family.

The Yacht…

EL REY

Absorb the magical scenery of Costa Rica aboard the 116’ (35.36m) EL REY. The converted exploration yacht offers expertly curated itineraries that encompass everything the Rich Coast has to offer. From scuba diving with eagle rays and whitetip sharks with EL REY’s SCUBA diving gear (rendezvous diving only) to fishing with her full complement of fishing gear, she is optimally designed and set up to accommodate adventures in exotic locations. EL REY is available to charter in Costa Rica for prices from $85,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 10 guests.

The Leeward Islands

Chic and glamorous cruising

With their beautiful coastlines and great selection of yachts, the Leeward Islands are a firm favorite for a 3G vacation. From exploring the islands’ maritime history with many manmade sites from the colonial days with the grandparents to discovering dramatic scenery and fantastic beaches and catching up with friendly locals, there’s something to please everyone here. Chill out on a deserted beach or on deck while the more active members of the family (whatever generation this may be) can snorkel and swim. The waters are teaming with exotic fish and colorful coral, while the beach bars make for a fun evening ashore.

The Yachts…

LA BLANCA

With copious deck spaces and an inviting interior, LA BLANCA is the perfect viewing platform from which to witness the Caribbean. Providing an experience akin to that of a guest at a seven-star hotel that just happens to be at sea, her style is elegant and sumptuous. For family vacations, her expansive sundeck is undoubtedly her most striking stand-out feature, with its 15-seater Jacuzzi complete with a swim-up bar. The 196’ (59m) LA BLANCA is available to charter in the Caribbean for prices from $395,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.

OPTIMISM

The recently delivered 121′ 8″ (37.08m) OPTIMISM boasts tremendous volume compared to most yachts in her size range, hosting six staterooms. Her large windows give the feel of a larger yacht. The beach club is undoubtedly the highlight, offering easy access to water activities and a large swim platform for assembling water toys. Those who aren’t keen on participating can watch the action unfold from afar. OPTIMISM is available to charter in the Caribbean for prices from $180,000 per week, plus expenses, for up to 12 guests.