Question 1

What is included?

Accepted Answer

Click here to check what's included

Question 2

What is not Included?

Accepted Answer

Click here to check what's not included

Question 3

Are there any deals or promotions on the cruise packages?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some weeks offer discounts.  If there are any last-minute cabins available for cruises departing in the next few weeks, they will have the largest discount.

Question 4

What travel documents do I need to sail the Caribbean with IntimaSeas?

Accepted Answer

You will need a Passport as we will travel between different countries. American, Canadian, British, and EU citizens will only need a passport. Persons with residency or multi-entry visas to USA or Canada will need their passport and proof of residency/visa. All others must check each countries entry visa requirements and ensure they meet the requirements..

Question 5

Can I travel solo?

Accepted Answer

Certainly! The prices listed are based on double occupancy. However, we offer a 10% discount on double occupancy rates for solo travellers.

Question 6

What are the age restrictions?

Accepted Answer

Adults only cruises have a minimum age of 18.  Children on all other cruises must be at least 6 years old and able swimmers.  Alcohol consumption is also restricted to those 18 and older on all cruises.

Question 7

How accessible is the yacht for persons with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

We're sorry, but our yachts have limited accessibility features at this time. For everyone's safety and comfort, guests need to be able to move around independently, climb stairs, and step from the dock onto a small boat (dinghy).

Question 8

Are there taxes, fees, and port expenses?

Accepted Answer

All taxes, fees, and port expenses are included for guests with American, Canadian, British, or EU passports, as well as those with residency or a multi-entry visa to the USA and Canada.  Guests without these must pay for their own entry visas, if required.  We reserve the right to pass on any increases in fees if the government imposes additional charges after booking.

Question 9

Are gratuities, tips, included, and how much should I budget for them?

Accepted Answer

Gratuities are not included and are reserved only for receiving exceptional service.  We recommend budgeting 15-25% of the cruise value for the crew.

Question 10

Are there any additional fees for for activities, or drinks onboard?

Accepted Answer

All onboard activities and equipment are free for guests to use during their cruise.  Premium and alcoholic drinks are included with the optional drinks package.

Question 11

What drink packages are available on the cruise?

Accepted Answer

Every cruise offers unlimited premium and alcoholic drinks with the optional drinks package for persons over the age of 18. The captain may limit alcohol consumption for health and safety of the guest or vessel.

Question 12

Can I bring my own Alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Yes, persons over the age of 18 may bring and consume their own alcohol on board. The captain may limit alcohol consumption for health and safety of the guest or vessel.

Question 13

What should I pack for my cruise?

Accepted Answer

Focus on essentials for sun, sea, and limited cabin space. Pack in a soft duffel bag or backpack—avoid hard-shell suitcases, as they don’t fit well in the cabins odd shaped storage compartments.
Must-Pack Items
•  Sun protection: Reef-safe sunscreen (high SPF), after-sun lotion/aloe, lip balm with SPF, polarized sunglasses (with strap), wide-brim hat or cap (wind-resistant if possible).
•  Toiletries: Travel-size basics (toothbrush/paste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, moisturizer). Reef-safe/biodegradable preferred. Any personal medications.
•  Personal items: Reusable water bottle, dry bag (for phones/electronics on excursions), small backpack or beach bag for day trips ashore.
•  Electronics: Phone charger (USB), waterproof phone case or pouch, camera.
•  Other essentials: Passport/ID, cash (USD widely accepted), credit/debit card, any required travel docs or insurance info. Motion sickness aids if prone. Snorkel mask (recommended to bring your own for comfort/fit). Sleep aids if used (mask, earplugs)
Pack light—most time is spent swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the islands. The yacht provides basics, so skip bulky extras.

Question 14

What clothes should I bring, and is there any dress code?

Accepted Answer

No Dress Code – Keep It Casual & Light •  2–4 swimsuits (quick-drying) •  2–3 lightweight cover-ups (sarongs, oversized shirts, kaftans) •  Breathable shorts, tank tops/T-shirts, or quick-dry athletic wear (4–6 outfits) •  1–2 nicer casual pieces for evenings (sundress, linen shirt, nice shorts) •  Long-sleeve rash guard or light hoodie for sun/wind protection •  Flip-flops or water shoes (the yacht is barefoot-friendly) •  Plenty of underwear & basics Tips: Pack light colors, UV-protective fabrics, hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. No formal wear needed—focus on comfort and easy packing in a soft duffel. Most of the time is spent in swimwear anyway!

Question 15

What prohibited items are not allowed on the cruise?

Accepted Answer

It is forbidden to bring any weapons or illegal drugs, or substances, on board.

Question 16

How much cash, and what currency, should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Almost everything is included in your cruise fare. We recommend bringing some cash for souvenirs, personal items, or dining at some great local restaurants we have found. Credit cards aren’t accepted everywhere, but U.S. dollars are widely used throughout the Caribbean.”

Question 17

Can I bring my own medication, or medical devices on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes, personal medication, prescription drugs, and medically required devices are allowed onboard.

Question 18

Can I bring my own water toys on board?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are welcome to bring any water toys you would like to use during your vacation. However, it will need to fit within your own cabin.

Question 19

Can I bring my own snorkel gear, or is it provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes, snorkel gear is available on board. However, we recommend bringing your own face mask and snorkel to ensure a proper fit, as the ones on board are shared.

Question 20

Can I bring my pets. or service animals, on board the yacht?

Accepted Answer

We truly understand that pets and service animals are cherished companions or vital supports for many. We're sorry, but our boats' limited space and safety needs prevent us from accommodating them. Thank you for your understanding—we hope to make your time with us wonderful nonetheless.

Question 21

How does embarkation day work? (Check-in, boarding times, luggage)

Accepted Answer

Before your arrival, we’ll provide the captain’s WhatsApp number to ensure your vacation starts smoothly. You can board the yacht anytime between 4 PM and 11 PM on embarkation day. If a delayed flight or other issue arises, boarding the next day is also possible—though there may be an extra charge for the water taxi to reach the yacht.
Once onboard there will be a quick briefing by our captain and you're ready to start your vacation. No formal check-in process needed! Our IntimaSeas cruises are intimate and flexible, allowing us to deliver personalized service that accommodates most challenges, without the rigid “be back by” deadlines or “leave without you” policies of traditional large-ship cruises. We will even help to take you luggage directly from the dock to your cabin.

Question 22

How long does the yacht stay at each location?

Accepted Answer

Typically, we sail after breakfast to a new location and spend the day and night there. Some days there is a short sail to a new location for the sunset and dinner. You'll have plenty of time to explore the islands, relax and enjoy the water.

Question 23

What shore excursions are available and can I book my own?

Accepted Answer

We offer shore excursions and scuba diving on most of our itineraries, but availability varies by location.  We recommend booking these to ensure a seamless vacation experience. Alternatively, you can book your own excursions, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.

Question 24

What happens if I miss the boat during a shore excursion?

Accepted Answer

This is quite unlikely, but if you have any issues, you can reach the Captain via his WhatsApp number.  Since we usually stay at the same place we sailed to that day, you’re welcome to come over when you’re done.  If we need to leave without you, we can arrange a water taxi to bring you back, but that would be an additional cost.

Question 25

How do I get to the yacht from the airport?

Accepted Answer

Just take an airport taxi to the yacht location. You will be able to WhatsApp the captain of the yacht to help with any issues. Some of our itineraries offer free pickup just a few minutes walk from the airport. Note that we don't have a strict embarkation time so we remain flexible with most itineraries allowing boarding between 4 PM and 11 PM.

Question 26

What do I do if I have dietary restrictions?

Accepted Answer

We strive to accommodate vegetarian, pescatarian, and carnarian diets.  Gluten and lactose-friendly diets are also welcome, but our small kitchens don’t allow us to guarantee zero-crossing contamination.

Question 27

Is Wifi available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all yachts have complimentary Wi-Fi, subject to the availability of the service provider.

Question 28

How safe is it to cruise the Caribbean?

Accepted Answer

The islands featured on our cruise itineraries are all currently rated at the U.S. State Department’s lowest security risk level: Level 1.  This means they’re considered very safe for travellers, with risks comparable to everyday life in the U.S.  There are no specific alerts for crime, terrorism, or other threats in tourist areas.

We intentionally select these secure and welcoming destinations to ensure a worry-free experience. Petty theft is the only minor concern, similar to anywhere else, and can be easily avoided with basic precautions like securing valuables.  Our crew provides local tips, and our focus on secluded shores adds to the extra peace of mind.

Question 29

Are there eco-friendly or sustainable cruising option?

Accepted Answer

IntimaSeas Cruises are significantly more environmentally friendly and sustainable compared to traditional large cruise ships. Here’s why it stands out as a greener way to explore the islands:
1. Wind-Powered Propulsion (Primary Energy Source)
•  Unlike massive cruise ships that burn heavy fuel oil or marine diesel constantly (emitting high levels of CO₂, sulfur oxides, and other pollutants), sailing catamarans rely mainly on wind—a renewable, zero-emission energy source—for most movement.
•  Engines are used sparingly (e.g., for maneuvering in harbors, calms, or safety), drastically reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions per person.
2. Much Smaller Scale and Lower Footprint
•  Our yachts carry 6–12 guests (plus crew), vs. thousands on big cruise liners. This means far less resource use overall: lower water consumption, waste generation, and energy demands.
•  Smaller vessels create minimal wake and disturbance to marine ecosystems—no churning up sediment that harms coral reefs or displacing wildlife like large ships can.
3. Eco-Friendly Features on our yachts
•  Most are equipped with solar panels for powering lights, appliances, charging devices, and even water makers—reducing reliance on generators and fossil fuels.
•  Water desalination systems produce fresh water onboard from seawater, minimizing the need to take on or discharge large volumes.
•  Waste practices include strict no single-use plastic policies, reusable items, composting or advanced waste management, and reef-safe products.
4. Sustainable Onboard and Shore Practices
•  Itineraries focus on remote, less-visited anchorages and small islands, avoiding overcrowded ports that suffer from overtourism.
•  Guests support local economies through direct interactions (e.g., buying from small vendors or eating at family-run spots), rather than mega-resorts.
•  Activities like snorkeling emphasize responsible marine practices—no touching coral, using reef-safe sunscreen, and supporting conservation.
5. Overall Impact Comparison
•  Traditional mega-cruise ships can emit far more CO₂ per passenger-mile than flying in some cases, plus generate tons of waste daily and contribute to air/water pollution in sensitive areas.
•  A sailing catamaran vacation keeps your carbon footprint low, promotes harmony with nature, and lets you experience the Caribbean’s beauty up close without overwhelming it.
In short, our yacht cruises let you sail responsibly—harnessing the wind, minimizing emissions, and treading lightly on these stunning ecosystems. It’s luxury travel that actually helps preserve the paradise you’re visiting.

Question 30

How long will the sea passages be, and how rough will the waters be?

Accepted Answer

Most days offer gentle morning sails lasting just 1–2 hours, accompanied by light, inviting breezes. Occasionally, our itinerary includes a quick 30–60-minute afternoon sail to a stunning anchorage for sunset and dinner.

For those booking an adventure cruises, longer passages (3–5+ hours) to far-off islands feel secure and smooth on our stable yachts.

Catamarans provide top-tier stability, thanks to their wide, ocean-proven designs. These designs gracefully manage waves and winds even in open sea conditions. However, all our cruises are conducted in sheltered Caribbean seas, which are predictable and feature the most gentle seas—just a natural rocking motion that adds to the charm. If you’re concerned, bring motion sickness medication for added comfort.

Your safety and joy are our top priorities:

• We diligently monitor weather forecasts and adjust our plans proactively.
    * Our captains are knowledgeable about the local areas and their boats, ensuring we select the most comfortable passages and locations.
• If the weather changes, we adapt to calmer spots or havens, often enhancing the overall adventure.

Guests will cherish more time swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing in serene bays than sailing. They love how smooth and enjoyable the experience feels—stress-free magic!

Question 31

When is hurricane season and should I avoid it?

Accepted Answer

Hurricanes normally come to the Caribbean in September give or take a couple weeks, though the season officially runs from June 1 to November 30 according to NOAA.
Why you really don’t need to worry on our yacht cruise:
•  We track every weather system closely with the latest forecasts—giving us plenty of advance notice to make smart adjustments.
•  Being a small, nimble catamaran means we can quickly move to calm, protected anchorages or quieter islands if anything develops—much more flexible than big ships.
•  We always choose safe, sheltered spots and avoid busy commercial ports that are more vulnerable.
•  Our experienced crew puts your safety and enjoyment first—we’re proactive about keeping everything relaxed and fun, no matter the forecast.
The truth is, the vast majority of Caribbean sailing trips—even during the season—enjoy beautiful, calm days with no issues at all. You’ll likely have perfect weather, empty bays, and unforgettable sunsets. We’ve got everything handled so you can just relax and soak in the turquoise paradise.

Question 32

Is sea sickness a problem on a sailing yacht?

Accepted Answer

Seasickness can affect some people on sailing yachts, particularly in choppy waters or for those new to boating.  The motion of the waves and sails can feel different from larger vessels. However, most guests don’t experience it, and those that do often improve after the first day as your body adjusts.

To help prevent seasickness, our route only sails in relatively calm seas, and our captain adjusts as needed for local weather events to keep things smooth.  We also recommend staying hydrated, eating light meals, focusing on the horizon, and considering over-the-counter remedies like ginger, Dramamine, or wristbands. If you have concerns, feel free to chat with our crew—they’re happy to share tips for a smoother sail!

Question 33

What happens if the weather changes during my cruise?

Accepted Answer

We closely track every weather system with the latest forecasts, giving us ample advance notice to make informed adjustments.  The captain may then modify the itinerary as necessary to ensure your safety and comfort.  Our small, nimble catamaran allows us to swiftly move to calm, protected anchorages or quieter islands if conditions worsen, offering much greater flexibility than larger vessels.  We always select safe, sheltered locations and avoid busy commercial ports, which are more susceptible to disruptions.

Question 34

What is the disembarkation process and how early should I plan to leave?

Accepted Answer

Disembark on the last day after breakfast at 9 a.m.  Some itineraries also offer drop-off near the airport around 10 a.m.

Question 35

What is the best way to avoid lines or crowds during my cruise?

Accepted Answer

IIntimaSeas offers a yachting experience to secluded shores, where you are unlikley to find any lines or crowds during your vacation.

Question 36

What is the smoking policy onboard?

Accepted Answer

Smoking is only permitted in the designated smoking area to accommodate all guests.

Question 37

How do I get from the yacht to shore?

Accepted Answer

The crew will transport you back and forth on a small boat called a tender, which accompanies the yacht.

Question 38

Do I need Insurance?

Accepted Answer

We recommend all guests arrange travel insurance that covers sailing activities to protect against an unexpected need to cancel or medical expenses.

Question 39

What is the cancelation policy?

Accepted Answer

You can view our cancellation policy

Question 40

What if there is a medical emergency on board?

Accepted Answer

All members of our crew have first aid training for safety. We are also always close to shore so we can get anyone to the hospital quickly needed. We also operate in areas covered by the Coast Guard, which can provide rescue using fast boats, and/or helicopters, in an emergency. We recommend arranging travel insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses.

Frequently asked questions