Alloy Yachts of Auckland built some of the finest sailing superyachts of the modern era, combining New Zealand aluminium fabrication expertise with European design vision to produce vessels that held records and won races as well as delivering exceptional charter experiences. While the yard ceased production in 2015, the Alloy fleet that operates in the Bahamas and Caribbean continues to be maintained to the highest standards, and the vessels available in this region represent some of the finest sailing charter yachts on the planet.
Three Alloy Yachts vessels operate in Bahamas and Caribbean waters, each a significant sailing yacht in the 30-to-50-metre range. These are blue-water vessels built for open-ocean passages and capable of arriving at Andros Island from Nassau under sail alone in a single day. The hulls are aluminium and the rigs are substantial, typically with carbon-fibre masts and hydraulic furling systems that allow small professional crew teams to manage large sail areas.
Charter rates for Alloy Yachts vessels in the Bahamas and Caribbean run from approximately 50,000 to 150,000 euros per week before expenses. The advance provisioning allowance of around thirty percent covers fuel for motoring legs, food, drinks, berthing and local fees. Fuel costs are typically lower than comparable motor yachts given the sailing time logged. High season runs December through April, when the trade winds are at their reliable best.
Andros Island under sail is a different kind of Bahamian experience. The passage from Nassau across the Tongue of the Ocean takes four to five hours on a broad reach in the trade wind. Fresh Creek on the east coast provides the sheltered arrival anchorage. The barrier reef at Nicholl’s Town is reachable by dinghy from the anchorage. Mangrove Cay’s sheltered Bight anchorage allows the sailing yacht to rest quietly while guests explore by tender. Behring Point on the west coast is a favourite evening anchorage for its bonefish flats and perfect sunsets.
