From the moment you step aboard 5 STAR, a 2008 model Beneteau, you will understand why she is so named. A star for Service, Style, Sports, Seamanship & Safety - we aim to give you a 5 STAR experience.

Serving couples who are celebrating a special event or who just need a break from everyday life, we will work with you to customize a cruise which includes as many (or as few) of your favorite activities, water sports, meal choices and refreshments.

Above deck, comfortable cushions, strategically placed drink holders and storage for sun creams, books and binoculars make the spacious covered cockpit the ideal place to relax while under sail or at anchor. Sections of the bimini can be removed for the sun lovers or left in place for those seeking shade. Twin steering wheels make sailing on either tack effortless and there is plenty room for reeling in the catch of the day.

Below deck, cream leather and brilliant woodwork provide a modern and contemporary look. Panoramic windows provide spacious and airy accommodations. A L- shaped galley is located to port of the companionway with navigation station opposite. The main saloon is elegant and comfortable with recessed lighting providing ambient light throughout.

The forward en- suite cabin provides guests with surprising comfort and amenities. Egyptian cotton linens adorn the Tempur- Pedic queen berth. Air- conditioning and individual fans make for a cool and peaceful nights sleep. A Bose iPod docking station and laptop are available for Internet, music, audiobooks & digital movies. The private en- suite features a fresh water shower and a convenient electric toilet. Complimentary shower gels & skin lotions are provided.

British Captain Hugh has been sailing since the 80's and in 2002 completed his intensive Commercial RYA Yacht Master Ocean certification at the UK's Sailing Academy. As the captain of 5 Star, Hugh puts your safety first. He loves to share sailing skills with guests, so whether you are a first time sailor or an experienced skipper he welcomes you to the helm. Hugh has extensive sailing and navigation experience in the UK, Europe, Thailand, Australia, Japan, US East Coast, Bahamas & the Caribbean.

Chef & First Mate Alison was raised and educated in South Africa. Catering to her guest needs and keeping 5 Star ship shape is her first priority. Her culinary talents range from traditional favorites to contemporary Euro-Asian fusion and she is proficient in mixing exotic and refreshing cocktails.

Both Hugh & Alison have off shore sailing experience and are additionally certified in First Aid, CPR, firefighting & safety at sea. Prior to operating 5 Star they both worked in corporate management positions in Global IT with sabbaticals that included teaching in Japan and managing a 90ft yacht in the Cayman Islands.

Guest Comments:
Hugh and Alison made this a truly wonderful experience in every way. Aaron and I consider them good friends after our week aboard 5 Star

The 5 Star's accommodations exceeded our expectations. The light wood, spacious and modern layout of the boat made us feel as though we were in a small apartment in London and not below deck. The tempurpedic was phenomenal as well and allowed for a very good night's rest.

We went home with a bunch of the recipes that Hugh and Alison used during the charter. We were surprised that such wonderful food with elegant presentation could come out of a galley kitchen.

the itinerary was very enjoyable because it was flexible and we visited almost all of the islands in one week and managed to get in a full moon party at Trellis Bay.

I was very pleased with John at Sailing Directions' attentive service and methodical follow up. If I asked him to call or return an email, he would do so right away to alleviate any concerns that I had. Additionally, since I was under severe time constraints prior to the charter, I appreciate his patience in my failure to respond in a timely manner.

We had a fabulous time sailing on the 5 Star! Thanks so much for your help and we will be in touch once our schedule allows us to visit Hugh and Alison again.

Jennifer L.