Christensen Shipyards, based in Vancouver, Washington, specialises in composite superyachts built from carbon fibre and fibreglass laminates. Their yachts are notably light for their volume, which translates to better range, lower fuel consumption and reduced running costs for charter guests moving between islands in the Leeward chain.
Guadeloupe provides an excellent charter base. The island has a distinctly French character, with good provisioning options in Pointe-a-Pitre, outstanding local cuisine and a cultural atmosphere that differs markedly from more Anglophone destinations to the north and south. The surrounding waters are warm, clear and productive for water sports and fishing.
Christensen yachts chartering around Guadeloupe are generally priced between 50,000 and 200,000 euros per week depending on vessel length and layout. The advance provisioning allowance, covering fuel, food, port fees and drinks, typically adds 25 to 35 percent to the base rate. December through April is the most active period for Caribbean charters, with trade winds providing reliable conditions.
With the Saintes just a short passage to the south, and Antigua, Barbuda and St Barts reachable within a day of sailing, Guadeloupe sits at an excellent mid-point in the Leeward Islands charter circuit. Christensen composite hulls and efficient fuel profiles handle inter-island passages with ease and without the fuel costs of heavier steel vessels.
