SEA RHAPSODY, YACHT CHARTER BY OCEAN INDEPENDENCE
Hugely popular 65m Amels motor yacht SEA RHAPSODY, available to charter with Ocean Independence, will again be heading to the beautiful Seychelles early in 2022. After a successful season based in this location during 2019/2020, longstanding and highly experienced captain, Cameron Moore, is keen to share his enthusiasm and admiration for these outstanding cruising grounds.
Having consistently sailed in the Seychelles for some 16 years, Cameron has developed a rich synergy with both the region, the friendly locals and a fascinating for the abundant aquatic treasures on offer. «It gets better each time, I would recommend it to anyone» he claims assuredly, «The best thing about a charter in the Seychelles is that you will never experience anything else like it ever again. Each time I go back, it feels more like home». Equally, the vibrant and fun crew share his love of this tropical haven, revealing that, «you may think it can become slightly repetitive after spending months in the Seychelles, but as long as you are not craving a busy metropolitan lifestyle, there is more than enough to keep you entertained here in paradise.» An area blessed with countless opportunities for enjoyment which include diving, kiteboarding, skydiving, ziplining and golf, it is apparent that activity-seekers never have
a dull moment here. Relishing the opportunity to head off the beaten track and provide guests with a uniquely authentic yachting experience, Captain Cameron and the crew on SEA RHAPSODY are keen to impart their inimitable dose of luxury, service and exclusivity. Along the way they have developed a huge respect for the Seychellois people, explaining, «During the pandemic we have tried to support communities and the economy in various ways, from hiring residents for various jobs, to our chef altering menus to specifically provision locally and so create a completely homegrown experience.» Evidently for SEA RHAPSODY, the remote locations that are so prevalent here work well to contribute to the all-round hand-picked experience. While the time change is relatively straightforward for guests coming from European or Asian time zones, those arriving from the US may experience a little jet lag. The Seychelles airport transfers are easily arranged to seamlessly transport guests to instant relaxation at five-star resorts, private islands and, of course, their luxury charter yacht. From a client’s perspective, Cameron outlines what to expect from a Seychelles charter, «Here you will find luxury that is unparalleled compared to anywhere else in the world – I’d describe it as secluded opulence.» With the obvious allure of beautiful scenery and a tropical climate, he draws on his own experiences, «You must meet the tortoises, they crop up everywhere, also visit dive sites renowned as the best in the world. On Aride Island, discover wholly indigenous bird species and in the outer islands savour solitude - you can often be the only vessel around for miles.» Thanks to an abundance of superb facilities on board SEA RHAPSODY, together with water toys galore, the list of ways to become fully immersed in such fabulous surroundings grows ever longer. Clearly offering the perfect winter getaway destination, the weather in the Seychelles is a big pull for charterers at around 34o Celsius most days, only dropping to a balmy 28o at night, while the water temperature of 30-32o is perfect for swimming. Cameron embellishes further on the flexibility of cruising here, «The Seychelles have multiple islands with plenty of
options, so guests can enjoy a secluded anchorage all to themselves, or nip around the corner for a luxury treat at a five-star hotel if they wish.» A combination of near and far, some of the most remote islands and anchorages are simply stunning, «especially if you make it to the African Banks», he confirms. «The varieties of flora and fauna that are not found anywhere else in this world, let alone on the next island over, are exceptional. Marine life is out of this world, and on land this is one of few places where giant tortoises outnumber the human population!» With dolphins, whale sharks, turtles galore and countless tropical fish, not to mention the rare plants usually only found in a botanical garden, the rich bounty of treasures to discover is unrivalled. Ashore, the atmosphere is laid back and life taken at a leisurely pace, with Cameron raining praise on the locals, «They are so fiercely proud of their country, taking any excuse to show it off to a visitor; they will go out of their way to make you feel welcome and always ask you to come back! Additionally, the culinary scene is phenomenal – if you love seafood, the best dish has to be octopus curry». With increased popularity and ongoing investment in the Seychelles, it is possible the islands will not remain exactly as they are for much longer, with Cameron firmly stating, «I would recommend anyone wishing to take this once in a lifetime experience to do so in the near future, and what better way than on board SEA RHAPSODY, with a crew who are truly passionate about the destination?» Offering final comment on tips for visitors to take into consideration when visiting, «To be honest, nothing at all, other than making preparations to stay longer!». Wise words indeed.