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Charter Options
By Heather Freckmann — Spring
2004
Tonga’s Vava’u Group is a popular waypoint for cruising sailors en route to New Zealand, and it has long been a hotspot for bareboat sailing charters. Powerboat charters are still somewhat rare, but the companies listed below are up and running with reputable operations.
Pacific Charters (011-64-9-575-5158,
www.pacificcharters.co.nz)
has 24 crewed powerboats available from 39 to 75 feet LOA. Prices vary
widely depending on the boat you choose.
Tropical Yacht Charters
(888-622-1195, www.a-yachtcharter.com)
keeps track of powerboats that regularly make the passage between North
America and New Zealand. Sometimes these boats are available for charter
during stopovers in Tonga, so call for information.
Classic Yacht Charters
(011-64-4-494-0250, www.yachtcharter.co.nz)
runs the 89-foot motor ketch Galerna
from May through October. Built in Norway in 1973, she has hosted notable
public figures such as artist Salvador Dali and members of the Danish
royal family. Her all-inclusive rate is $25,000 a week.
Escapade Charters
(011-64-9-415-2320, www.escapadecharters.co.nz)
manages the 75-foot Escapade in Tonga
and other South Pacific islands. Her homeport from May to October is Port
Denarau, Fiji. A weeklong charter, including meals and beverages aboard,
is $41,650.
King Yacht Charters (800-521-7552,
www.sailingcharters.com)
specializes in sailboats but handles some powerboats on occasion. Call
for availability.
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