Grenada towards British Virgin Islands
Dear Bernie & Ruthie,
After our third fantastic holiday aboard Paradise we’ve come to realize what makes this vacation so special for us; Transformations. First the vessel herself transforms from a sleek and spirited thoroughbred, dancing on the waves by day, into a 5-star hotel and resort snuggled into a tranquil cove by night. Then the crew, a fun-loving though expert pair of sailors by day, become chef, waiter and super-hosts of their own resort, wishing only to satisfy our every want. Finally, we ourselves transform from heavily-stressed business-people into relaxed and rested souls, prepared once more to confront our normal lives at home. Thanks so much! We’ll see you again next year.
Steve & Cheryl, British Columbia, Canada.
Grenada and Grenadines
Dear Lynne! (Broker)
“We are currently in San Juan waiting for our again delayed flight back to Miami and then on to Cincinnati. But it does not matter how long the delay ends up. The time we had with Bernd on the Paradise was worth every moment.
It is always slightly worrying when you have looked for forward to something for so long which-in the end it turns out to be an anti-climax. The opposite was the case the Bernd and Paradise. The charter exceeded every expectation that we had. We had not expected five star services and five stars dining on board such a well appointed and beautiful yacht. Everything about this trip was perfect. The information that you provided, the advice you gave us to steer us towards Paradise and then in the end Paradise itself.
Bernd was a charming and delightful host who knew exactly how to balance friendliness with privacy. He knew all the special places to go where we could swim, snorkel and relax alone. The experience was one of pampered luxury with Bernd taking care of our every need with charm and humor. His cooking was a revelation. I travel a great deal and am a little jaded when it comes to eating in hotels and restaurants. Bernd is a chef of extraordinary quality and originality. Every night was a culinary delight set in the romantic candle lit ambiance of Paradise's top deck.
The course he chose and the places he found were the best of the Caribbean. Moving with Paradise under full sail driven by the warm Caribbean Trade Winds was a delight. Every moment Bernd was on top of his game. His love of sailing such a special yacht enhanced our own enjoyment of experience.
We would both strongly recommend Bernd's Captain only charter to anyone wishing the time of a lifetime. For us it was the best and most romantic vacation we have ever had together.
Thank you for such a great recommendation. We will be back!”
Roderick & Deborah Macdonald
Hi Sharon, ( Broker)
Sorry I have been so slow on the response; I am working and taking a class. Below is something I wrote up about the vacation. If you could please forward it to Ruth and Bernd that would be great. Once again, thank you for all of your help. It was a trip of a lifetime. Now I can actually have a real place to picture when I daydream!
Brian and I have been together for a very long time. We got married about a year and a half ago and did not have a real honeymoon. We have always been penny pinchers and have never really had a vacation. We decided to finally go on a belated honeymoon and really our first vacation together. We did a lot of research. The problem in finding a vacation to meet our needs was that Brian doesn't like to sit still and is not someone who lies on the beach, whereas I like a combination of things and I have a real passion to swim. I came across to your (Brokers) website and was thoroughly impressed on the amount of information and the customer service. You returned my emails very promptly and gave me all of the information that I needed. You also made me feel very comfortable when I was unsure about things. You have been accommodating and found us the vacation we had always hoped for.
Paradise! When you look at chartering a boat there are so many different boats and companies to look at. We were immediately drawn to this boat because of its layout. It was nice and big. We had a comfortable queen size bed with the bathroom right off of the bedroom. There were enough port holes and hatches so there was a constant breeze at night. The boat was beautifully maintained and very clean. On the deck you could find multiple places to sit. You could lie down behind the helm, have a seat, or take a seat under the shade. We had dinner every night on the deck. It was so peaceful, beautiful, and romantic. This boat also has the luxury of what I called the "1st class lift". You can sit on the back of the boat and actually be lowered into the water. It was really nice to do this so you could have all your equipment on and ready to go.
The second reason we picked this trip was because of the crew. They looked nice from the pictures and all the testimonials spoke highly of them. The testimonials were an understatement. They made us feel comfortable right from the start and kept us laughing constantly. Both Ruth and Bernd make you feel as though the boat belongs to you and they are mealy there to help you out. In terms of sailing, Ruth and Bernd are both great sailors, Paradise gives you an amazing sailing experience on top of everything else. We averaged around 6-7 knots which really made you feel like you were flying.
I travel a lot for work and have eaten at many great restaurants, but nothing compared to this food. They were the best meals I have ever had. Ruth never stopped amazing us. Just when she would have a dinner that we didn't think anything could be better than, the next night would top that one, not to mention the home made desserts. We told her many times that she needs to write a cook book.
Agenda. They brought us to all the best spots, they really know so much about the area right down to which areas to stay for the night so you will have a good breeze and they took us to some amazing areas for snorkeling. One thing we commented on to Ruth and Bernd that we really liked was that they took us to the places where the big cruise ships were not, it made you feel like you were getting to see the hidden secrets of some beautiful islands. We are not touristy and we love to snorkel. They brought us to all the hidden treasures. They were so knowledgeable about where to swim and what fish/turtles/rays we would see. One day when snorkeling Bernd told us to come around the point of an island and just wait and keep and eye out for tarpon. It was like he called ahead to have them placed there, sure enough, just as he told us we waited and they appeared, and this was only a small amount of the knowledge he shared with us.
This trip exceeded our expectations in every way. I would recommend it to anyone; in fact we both have recommended Ruth and Bernd to others. Ruth and Bernd were able to meet both Brian and my needs. They were warm, friendly, professional, and great to be around. This was a trip that I will never forget. Brian and I keep joking that it was not a good idea to have a first vacation be so amazing because we will never be able to achieve the level of satisfaction that we had with this trip.
Thank you for a true vacation. I came back so relaxed and revived, more than I have never experienced before. Our trip started on a Friday, and by Monday morning we could not remember what day it was, Brian and I are typically fairly time conscious so this was showed how truly relaxed we were.
Overall there is no way to put into words what our time on Paradise was like, and what Ruth and Bernd were like to be around. Ruth, Bernd, and Paradise were too amazing to allow anyone to get a good picture from a few words. If I was to touch on everything that made the vacation so special I would need a whole book. All I can do is recommend anyone who is contemplating a vacation on Paradise is to stop contemplating it and book it now; you don't want to miss out on an opportunity like this.
We both want to thank you again for all your help and thank Ruth and Bernd for an amazing time. We hope we meet up with you both again.
Betsey & Brian
Bernie and Ruth,
As we left home and headed to “Paradise” we did not know what to expect. However, from the moment we got to “Paradise” you both made us feel welcome and now looking back over the last week you have made our dream vacation come true!
You both are amazing people with amazing stories to share and wisdom to pass along.
We will never forget our time aboard “Paradise” and will never forget you both!
All the best of luck with all the future brings we will think of you often.
Best wishes and thank you again!
Brian and Betsey
We recently returned from a week aboard “Paradise”.. I believe the name says it all! This was beyond doubt, the most relaxing vacation our family has ever had!
From the moment we met Ruth and Bernie we felt welcomed, and delighted that their boat would be our home for the next week. While being professional and attentive to our needs, Ruth and Bernie were extremely amiable, and after a very short time, we felt as though we had known them for years. From getting us to some great snorkelling locations, to regularly offering drinks and snacks, to card tournaments in the evening, Ruth and Bernie were the perfect hosts not only to us, but to our two teenage children. They were interested in our children’s activities and lives back home, and open to sharing their experiences with our family. We were also grateful for the flexibility shown by our hosts. Our travel plans required changing at the last minute, and Bernie and Ruth were extremely accommodating, and re-organized the itinerary to help us out.
We spent time with our children, snorkelling, kayaking and exploring, while all the travel details were taken care of. True quality time!
Ruth and Bernie’s “Paradise” is a well maintained and well equipped yacht. The boat is spacious and extremely comfortable for four quests. It is fun to sail and provides ample room for sun tanning!
One of the most anticipated events of the day…..the culinary experience! The meals aboard “Paradise” were fabulous! Somehow, in a boat sized galley, Ruth was able to prepare some of the most delightful meals we have had while on a vacation! The variety and quality were amazing!
Would we charter again in the BVI? Absolutely! Bernie and Ruth would be the first phone call we would make!
Thank you both for making our holiday a delight.
Judy & Ken McKay, Canada
Dear Gail, (Broker)
Just wanted to write you a note and thank you for all your help in giving us what was one of the best vacations of our life. Your help was invaluable and clear and honest. We appreciate it so very much. Both the Heders (Jim and Helen) and Eric and I want to express our appreciation for a great service given. Thanks again!
I also wanted to write a testimonial for Bernie and Ruthie and the immeasurable "Paradise". Wow! What can I say that can in any way measure up to what an incredible experience they provide? I will try my best.
First of all, I don't know if you remember, but when we were trying to decide on which boat would work for us, I mentioned to you that cleanliness of the yacht was a high priority for us. I told you that we were very fussy and we needed a "pristinely clean" boat. You answered, "Well then, I have the boat for you!" You couldn't have been more right! I have never seen anything so spotlessly, shiningly, perfectly clean! I don't know how Bernie and Ruthie do it, but the "Paradise" is cleaner and more carefully maintained than any 5 star resorts I have ever stayed at. And not just clean, but beautifully decorated, and comfortable, and welcoming. And in addition to all this, it was so incredibly roomy!
I had to keep reminding myself that we were in a sailboat when "down below". It was so inviting and roomy. The 4 of us played cards every night and in no way felt enclosed or "claustrophobic". Very open and spacious. And the upper decks! So many places to sit, lie, read, sunbathe, you name it! What an open, well-designed boat. And can it sail! Wooooweeee! We got some speed and had some fun! But, I'll talk about that later!
That is just the yacht itself, but what really made it a delightful 5 days, were Bernie and Ruthie. What knowledgeable, friendly, fun, helpful, kind people. Once again, I could go on and on. Bernie was so helpful, full of laughter, and such a good sailing teacher. I had mentioned in my preference list that my husband wanted to learn a lot more sailing. Bernie took this to heart and took Eric through every step, instructing him pretty much what to do, every step along the way. He had him do a lot at the helm. He even put me to the wheel to teach me what to do. The Heders weren't so much interested in learning the finer points of sailing, and they were not pressured in any way. They simply got to enjoy the sail. But my husband was initiated into many of the great points of sailing a large yacht. He loved it!
And the food! Yum! Ruthie is indeed a gourmet cook beyond measure! And Bernie as the server! Oh, do they both take it to heart! Each night, dinner was served above board with candlelight and fine china and silverware, and many courses! Much better than any cruise we have been on, and we have been on several. So romantic with the stars and the beautiful evening, Ruthie's delicious food, Bernie's service, and good food. Couldn't get much better than that! And my goodness, be careful what you say! I just happened to mention in passing to the other couple that I occasionally like a good steak, and guess what we had for dinner the next night? Bernie was listening, and yes, it was probably one of the best steaks I have ever had. Freshly barbequed on their own outside barbeque. Mmmm, my mouth waters just remembering it! The same thing goes for breakfast. Helen, the wife of the other couple, mentioned she loved German pancakes. And yes, there they were the next morning! It's like elves all around, just answering our very whims. How can it get better than that? Okay, last, but not least, the sail itself. We told Bernie we wanted to do a lot of sailing! And sailing we did. We were only able to go for 5 days, and they were able to condense a 7 day cruise into the 5 days. So very accommodating! We sailed, and sailed, and sailed some more! And did we ever love it! In addition to the sailing, we were able to snorkel every day (great snorkelling), the guys were able to SCUBA, we did some shopping at Soper's Hole, went to the Baths, and had an overall fantastic time of just the sightseeing itself. The boat comes equipped with all the toys you could want. Kayaks, the snorkel gear, a swim platform, and a motorized dinghy for taking guests into shore. Perfect! And Bernie and Ruthie so helpful in making sure all this works as smoothly and seamlessly as possible. Which they achieve with wonderful perfection!
Well, I could go on and on. What a fantastic time! Give Ruthie and Bernie our best, and if anyone wants to hear us rave about them and the "Paradise", send them our way.
Thanks again,
Ann Olsen
Kathy, (the Broker)
We arrived back from our Paradise Charter late Monday night, 2/11, and I want to take a few minutes to give you a "testimonial" of our experience.
We had such a great experience; I don't know how it could have been better. Paradise is a beautifully laid-out boat. Bernie and Ruthie were not only expert sailors; they went beyond our expectations with the quality and presentation of each and every meal.
We never wanted to have a meal off the boat, because we knew we could not get better a dining experience.
Our daily itinerary was suggested by the crew, and we were never disappointed in their choices. We had several exciting snorkeling stops to spots they knew were full of a variety of fish, turtles, stingrays, etc.
The winds were strong all week, but that made for good sailing. Bernie and Ruthie worked as team not only making each sailing fun, but safe and comfortable to all of us landlubbers.
The crew was very sensitive to our friend's diabetes, making meals that were necessary for her and allowing for her needs to exercise, rest, etc. The attention to Mrs. Clifton was gracefully incorporated into the service and attention for the rest of us.
I couldn't have written a better script for my personal dream to sail in the BVI. The only problem I have with our charter on Paradise is that I don't know how another sailboat and crew ever could match up to last week's experience!
Thanks for helping us find Bernie and Ruthie. We got lucky!
Best regards,
Bill Summey
Dear Ruthie & Bernie,
Thank you so very much for being such wonderful hosts. Your boat is magnificent: beautiful, comfortable and so very clean. These things made for a luxurious trip and vacation.
Ruth, your cooking and meal planning were the best! Every meal was a delight and the frequent drinks were delicious.
Thank you for being so patient with all of us while sailing and playing. I especially enjoyed visiting with you and learning about you and your family, your many many experiences, and your philosophies.
Ruth, you are a gracious, beautiful lady and the ultimate hostess. I hope I learn from you. Bernie, you are a wonderful teacher and always made us feel safe. I especially enjoyed hearing you both speak German, a language and culture I love.
May you continue to enjoy each other and all of the adventures life has left for you.
Love,
Helen & Jim
Dear Bernie and Ruthie,
The trip was 9.90+++ out of 10! You could not have been more considerate of your elderly "guests" and we appreciated it. Ruthie is an accomplished and creative cook (chef). You anticipated our wants and needs; you gave us good alternative destinations and helped us come to a consensus. To top if off, we really enjoyed meeting and talking to two interesting and fascinating people. And you put with the four of us! "Paradise" lived up to its name.
Best to you, Caroline and Chuck (both 82)
Dear Bernie & Ruthie,
After our third fantastic holiday aboard Paradise we’ve come to realize what makes this vacation so special for us; Transformations. First the vessel herself transforms from a sleek and spirited thoroughbred, dancing on the waves by day, into a 5-star hotel and resort snuggled into a tranquil cove by night. Then the crew, a fun-loving though expert pair of sailors by day, become chef, waiter and super-hosts of their own resort, wishing only to satisfy our every want. Finally, we ourselves transform from heavily-stressed business-people into relaxed and rested souls, prepared once more to confront our normal lives at home. Thanks so much! We’ll see you again next year.
Steve & Cheryl, British Columbia, Canada.
Grenada and Grenadines
Dear Lynne! (Broker)
“We are currently in San Juan waiting for our again delayed flight back to Miami and then on to Cincinnati. But it does not matter how long the delay ends up. The time we had with Bernd on the Paradise was worth every moment.
It is always slightly worrying when you have looked for forward to something for so long which-in the end it turns out to be an anti-climax. The opposite was the case the Bernd and Paradise. The charter exceeded every expectation that we had. We had not expected five star services and five stars dining on board such a well appointed and beautiful yacht. Everything about this trip was perfect. The information that you provided, the advice you gave us to steer us towards Paradise and then in the end Paradise itself.
Bernd was a charming and delightful host who knew exactly how to balance friendliness with privacy. He knew all the special places to go where we could swim, snorkel and relax alone. The experience was one of pampered luxury with Bernd taking care of our every need with charm and humor. His cooking was a revelation. I travel a great deal and am a little jaded when it comes to eating in hotels and restaurants. Bernd is a chef of extraordinary quality and originality. Every night was a culinary delight set in the romantic candle lit ambiance of Paradise's top deck.
The course he chose and the places he found were the best of the Caribbean. Moving with Paradise under full sail driven by the warm Caribbean Trade Winds was a delight. Every moment Bernd was on top of his game. His love of sailing such a special yacht enhanced our own enjoyment of experience.
We would both strongly recommend Bernd's Captain only charter to anyone wishing the time of a lifetime. For us it was the best and most romantic vacation we have ever had together.
Thank you for such a great recommendation. We will be back!”
Roderick & Deborah Macdonald
Hi Sharon, ( Broker)
Sorry I have been so slow on the response; I am working and taking a class. Below is something I wrote up about the vacation. If you could please forward it to Ruth and Bernd that would be great. Once again, thank you for all of your help. It was a trip of a lifetime. Now I can actually have a real place to picture when I daydream!
Brian and I have been together for a very long time. We got married about a year and a half ago and did not have a real honeymoon. We have always been penny pinchers and have never really had a vacation. We decided to finally go on a belated honeymoon and really our first vacation together. We did a lot of research. The problem in finding a vacation to meet our needs was that Brian doesn't like to sit still and is not someone who lies on the beach, whereas I like a combination of things and I have a real passion to swim. I came across to your (Brokers) website and was thoroughly impressed on the amount of information and the customer service. You returned my emails very promptly and gave me all of the information that I needed. You also made me feel very comfortable when I was unsure about things. You have been accommodating and found us the vacation we had always hoped for.
Paradise! When you look at chartering a boat there are so many different boats and companies to look at. We were immediately drawn to this boat because of its layout. It was nice and big. We had a comfortable queen size bed with the bathroom right off of the bedroom. There were enough port holes and hatches so there was a constant breeze at night. The boat was beautifully maintained and very clean. On the deck you could find multiple places to sit. You could lie down behind the helm, have a seat, or take a seat under the shade. We had dinner every night on the deck. It was so peaceful, beautiful, and romantic. This boat also has the luxury of what I called the "1st class lift". You can sit on the back of the boat and actually be lowered into the water. It was really nice to do this so you could have all your equipment on and ready to go.
The second reason we picked this trip was because of the crew. They looked nice from the pictures and all the testimonials spoke highly of them. The testimonials were an understatement. They made us feel comfortable right from the start and kept us laughing constantly. Both Ruth and Bernd make you feel as though the boat belongs to you and they are mealy there to help you out. In terms of sailing, Ruth and Bernd are both great sailors, Paradise gives you an amazing sailing experience on top of everything else. We averaged around 6-7 knots which really made you feel like you were flying.
I travel a lot for work and have eaten at many great restaurants, but nothing compared to this food. They were the best meals I have ever had. Ruth never stopped amazing us. Just when she would have a dinner that we didn't think anything could be better than, the next night would top that one, not to mention the home made desserts. We told her many times that she needs to write a cook book.
Agenda. They brought us to all the best spots, they really know so much about the area right down to which areas to stay for the night so you will have a good breeze and they took us to some amazing areas for snorkeling. One thing we commented on to Ruth and Bernd that we really liked was that they took us to the places where the big cruise ships were not, it made you feel like you were getting to see the hidden secrets of some beautiful islands. We are not touristy and we love to snorkel. They brought us to all the hidden treasures. They were so knowledgeable about where to swim and what fish/turtles/rays we would see. One day when snorkeling Bernd told us to come around the point of an island and just wait and keep and eye out for tarpon. It was like he called ahead to have them placed there, sure enough, just as he told us we waited and they appeared, and this was only a small amount of the knowledge he shared with us.
This trip exceeded our expectations in every way. I would recommend it to anyone; in fact we both have recommended Ruth and Bernd to others. Ruth and Bernd were able to meet both Brian and my needs. They were warm, friendly, professional, and great to be around. This was a trip that I will never forget. Brian and I keep joking that it was not a good idea to have a first vacation be so amazing because we will never be able to achieve the level of satisfaction that we had with this trip.
Thank you for a true vacation. I came back so relaxed and revived, more than I have never experienced before. Our trip started on a Friday, and by Monday morning we could not remember what day it was, Brian and I are typically fairly time conscious so this was showed how truly relaxed we were.
Overall there is no way to put into words what our time on Paradise was like, and what Ruth and Bernd were like to be around. Ruth, Bernd, and Paradise were too amazing to allow anyone to get a good picture from a few words. If I was to touch on everything that made the vacation so special I would need a whole book. All I can do is recommend anyone who is contemplating a vacation on Paradise is to stop contemplating it and book it now; you don't want to miss out on an opportunity like this.
We both want to thank you again for all your help and thank Ruth and Bernd for an amazing time. We hope we meet up with you both again.
Betsey & Brian
Bernie and Ruth,
As we left home and headed to “Paradise” we did not know what to expect. However, from the moment we got to “Paradise” you both made us feel welcome and now looking back over the last week you have made our dream vacation come true!
You both are amazing people with amazing stories to share and wisdom to pass along.
We will never forget our time aboard “Paradise” and will never forget you both!
All the best of luck with all the future brings we will think of you often.
Best wishes and thank you again!
Brian and Betsey
We recently returned from a week aboard “Paradise”.. I believe the name says it all! This was beyond doubt, the most relaxing vacation our family has ever had!
From the moment we met Ruth and Bernie we felt welcomed, and delighted that their boat would be our home for the next week. While being professional and attentive to our needs, Ruth and Bernie were extremely amiable, and after a very short time, we felt as though we had known them for years. From getting us to some great snorkelling locations, to regularly offering drinks and snacks, to card tournaments in the evening, Ruth and Bernie were the perfect hosts not only to us, but to our two teenage children. They were interested in our children’s activities and lives back home, and open to sharing their experiences with our family. We were also grateful for the flexibility shown by our hosts. Our travel plans required changing at the last minute, and Bernie and Ruth were extremely accommodating, and re-organized the itinerary to help us out.
We spent time with our children, snorkelling, kayaking and exploring, while all the travel details were taken care of. True quality time!
Ruth and Bernie’s “Paradise” is a well maintained and well equipped yacht. The boat is spacious and extremely comfortable for four quests. It is fun to sail and provides ample room for sun tanning!
One of the most anticipated events of the day…..the culinary experience! The meals aboard “Paradise” were fabulous! Somehow, in a boat sized galley, Ruth was able to prepare some of the most delightful meals we have had while on a vacation! The variety and quality were amazing!
Would we charter again in the BVI? Absolutely! Bernie and Ruth would be the first phone call we would make!
Thank you both for making our holiday a delight.
Judy & Ken McKay, Canada
Dear Gail, (Broker)
Just wanted to write you a note and thank you for all your help in giving us what was one of the best vacations of our life. Your help was invaluable and clear and honest. We appreciate it so very much. Both the Heders (Jim and Helen) and Eric and I want to express our appreciation for a great service given. Thanks again!
I also wanted to write a testimonial for Bernie and Ruthie and the immeasurable "Paradise". Wow! What can I say that can in any way measure up to what an incredible experience they provide? I will try my best.
First of all, I don't know if you remember, but when we were trying to decide on which boat would work for us, I mentioned to you that cleanliness of the yacht was a high priority for us. I told you that we were very fussy and we needed a "pristinely clean" boat. You answered, "Well then, I have the boat for you!" You couldn't have been more right! I have never seen anything so spotlessly, shiningly, perfectly clean! I don't know how Bernie and Ruthie do it, but the "Paradise" is cleaner and more carefully maintained than any 5 star resorts I have ever stayed at. And not just clean, but beautifully decorated, and comfortable, and welcoming. And in addition to all this, it was so incredibly roomy!
I had to keep reminding myself that we were in a sailboat when "down below". It was so inviting and roomy. The 4 of us played cards every night and in no way felt enclosed or "claustrophobic". Very open and spacious. And the upper decks! So many places to sit, lie, read, sunbathe, you name it! What an open, well-designed boat. And can it sail! Wooooweeee! We got some speed and had some fun! But, I'll talk about that later!
That is just the yacht itself, but what really made it a delightful 5 days, were Bernie and Ruthie. What knowledgeable, friendly, fun, helpful, kind people. Once again, I could go on and on. Bernie was so helpful, full of laughter, and such a good sailing teacher. I had mentioned in my preference list that my husband wanted to learn a lot more sailing. Bernie took this to heart and took Eric through every step, instructing him pretty much what to do, every step along the way. He had him do a lot at the helm. He even put me to the wheel to teach me what to do. The Heders weren't so much interested in learning the finer points of sailing, and they were not pressured in any way. They simply got to enjoy the sail. But my husband was initiated into many of the great points of sailing a large yacht. He loved it!
And the food! Yum! Ruthie is indeed a gourmet cook beyond measure! And Bernie as the server! Oh, do they both take it to heart! Each night, dinner was served above board with candlelight and fine china and silverware, and many courses! Much better than any cruise we have been on, and we have been on several. So romantic with the stars and the beautiful evening, Ruthie's delicious food, Bernie's service, and good food. Couldn't get much better than that! And my goodness, be careful what you say! I just happened to mention in passing to the other couple that I occasionally like a good steak, and guess what we had for dinner the next night? Bernie was listening, and yes, it was probably one of the best steaks I have ever had. Freshly barbequed on their own outside barbeque. Mmmm, my mouth waters just remembering it! The same thing goes for breakfast. Helen, the wife of the other couple, mentioned she loved German pancakes. And yes, there they were the next morning! It's like elves all around, just answering our very whims. How can it get better than that? Okay, last, but not least, the sail itself. We told Bernie we wanted to do a lot of sailing! And sailing we did. We were only able to go for 5 days, and they were able to condense a 7 day cruise into the 5 days. So very accommodating! We sailed, and sailed, and sailed some more! And did we ever love it! In addition to the sailing, we were able to snorkel every day (great snorkelling), the guys were able to SCUBA, we did some shopping at Soper's Hole, went to the Baths, and had an overall fantastic time of just the sightseeing itself. The boat comes equipped with all the toys you could want. Kayaks, the snorkel gear, a swim platform, and a motorized dinghy for taking guests into shore. Perfect! And Bernie and Ruthie so helpful in making sure all this works as smoothly and seamlessly as possible. Which they achieve with wonderful perfection!
Well, I could go on and on. What a fantastic time! Give Ruthie and Bernie our best, and if anyone wants to hear us rave about them and the "Paradise", send them our way.
Thanks again,
Ann Olsen
Kathy, (the Broker)
We arrived back from our Paradise Charter late Monday night, 2/11, and I want to take a few minutes to give you a "testimonial" of our experience.
We had such a great experience; I don't know how it could have been better. Paradise is a beautifully laid-out boat. Bernie and Ruthie were not only expert sailors; they went beyond our expectations with the quality and presentation of each and every meal.
We never wanted to have a meal off the boat, because we knew we could not get better a dining experience.
Our daily itinerary was suggested by the crew, and we were never disappointed in their choices. We had several exciting snorkeling stops to spots they knew were full of a variety of fish, turtles, stingrays, etc.
The winds were strong all week, but that made for good sailing. Bernie and Ruthie worked as team not only making each sailing fun, but safe and comfortable to all of us landlubbers.
The crew was very sensitive to our friend's diabetes, making meals that were necessary for her and allowing for her needs to exercise, rest, etc. The attention to Mrs. Clifton was gracefully incorporated into the service and attention for the rest of us.
I couldn't have written a better script for my personal dream to sail in the BVI. The only problem I have with our charter on Paradise is that I don't know how another sailboat and crew ever could match up to last week's experience!
Thanks for helping us find Bernie and Ruthie. We got lucky!
Best regards,
Bill Summey
Dear Ruthie & Bernie,
Thank you so very much for being such wonderful hosts. Your boat is magnificent: beautiful, comfortable and so very clean. These things made for a luxurious trip and vacation.
Ruth, your cooking and meal planning were the best! Every meal was a delight and the frequent drinks were delicious.
Thank you for being so patient with all of us while sailing and playing. I especially enjoyed visiting with you and learning about you and your family, your many many experiences, and your philosophies.
Ruth, you are a gracious, beautiful lady and the ultimate hostess. I hope I learn from you. Bernie, you are a wonderful teacher and always made us feel safe. I especially enjoyed hearing you both speak German, a language and culture I love.
May you continue to enjoy each other and all of the adventures life has left for you.
Love,
Helen & Jim
Dear Bernie and Ruthie,
The trip was 9.90+++ out of 10! You could not have been more considerate of your elderly "guests" and we appreciated it. Ruthie is an accomplished and creative cook (chef). You anticipated our wants and needs; you gave us good alternative destinations and helped us come to a consensus. To top if off, we really enjoyed meeting and talking to two interesting and fascinating people. And you put with the four of us! "Paradise" lived up to its name.
Best to you, Caroline and Chuck (both 82)