Charter Yacht Serenity Guest Reviews
An amazing wonderful vacation
"Sailing though the BVI on Serenity was fabulous. The boat is new, was quite comfortable and had more pillows than we knew what to do with. Jake is a knowledgeable Captain who made the trip fun for all especially the kids. Ask him to make you his specialty drink - the Jake Killer - you won’t be disappointed. Kiley, the chef and all around awesome person has cooking skills that far exceeded our expectations. The food was abundant and absolutely delicious - every single meal! Her cocktails and mocktails rocked too! Jake and Kiley were a great team, very accommodating and they really took great care of us!
We explored many different islands, snorkeled, hiked, fished, did some water sports, relaxed on the beach and much more. The sunsets were breathtaking. I would take this trip, with Jake and Kiley, again in a heartbeat."
Dream Vacation Come True
"Truly the trip of my dreams! Our family of five (mom, dad and three boys ages 12, 16, 19) had such an amazing week on this luxurious and comfortable catamaran. Our hosts, Jake and Kylie were the perfect pairing for us and we thoroughly enjoyed their company! Not knowing a lot about the USVI, and only that we knew we'd like to focus on St. John to snorkel, explore and relax, we asked Jake and Kylie to take us to the places they liked most. Jake sailed us to some of the most beautiful bays, swam with us to great snorkel locations, took the kids tubing behind the dingy, and took us out for a day sail. Every day was filled with perfect amount of activity and relaxing. Can't list them all but a few favorites were snorkeling at Waterlemon Cay, a stop at Lime Out Taco Bar, Maho Beach and Salt Pond Bay when Kylie packed a wonderful beach bag for us with all the things we'd need for a few hours on the beach. They really are the most gracious hosts, eager to do everything to make your stay relaxing and feel completely taken care of. Kylie prepared wonderfully delicious and artful meals that I'm inspired to re-create. Snacks and fresh fruit were always on hand (necessary with 3 boys), and cocktails and mocktails were a very fun part of every day! The boys regularly requested the Jake Killer! Try it! Jake and Kylie are a great pair, they do it all from ensuring clean comfortable quarters to delicious and filling food and beverage, music requests, tours to any place you want to go, stories and history of the area, great directions for excursions, and just all around fun conversations. They made us feel like Serenity was our home for the week and we felt like family in a very short time! I can't say enough about this amazing vacation! We miss Jake and Kylie and would be thrilled to sail with them again to other places in the USVI, BVI or even beyond. You will love your stay on Serenity with Jake and Kylie-beautiful souls!"
5/5 Amazing Trip
The trip was absolutely amazing. It had all the amenities of a 5 star hotel but with the flexibility to go, do and see anything you wanted. The food and drinks were fantastic and plentiful and the captain and chef amazing. We cannot express how pleased we were by the entire experience from the initial booking with boats at Sea to the farewell goodbyes to Kylie and Jake!
The yacht was beautiful and in great shape. It was her first paid charter, so the expectation was high and she exceeded our expectations in space and amenities and just how comfortable it was for a full week. We never felt crowded or ran out of things to do. We made everyone leave the electronics off for the week and with 12-, 16-, and 20-year-old sons, there wasn't a whisper of complaining. Of course our Captain, or should I say DJ Jake was jamming great tunes the whole time for our entertainment and honored every request!
Captain Jake took our 3 sons tubing from the tender and I asked him to beat them up a little as they were professional tubers having tubed many summers in Northern Michigan. I was pleased to see strawberries on all of their elbows the next day from the tube and they agreed it was one of their best tube rides ever. We used the fishing poles daily and hooked into several Tarpon and a Barracuda out trolling. There was also a water wing, paddle boards and inflatable Kayak that all got used as well. The snorkel gear was heavily used!
The food was incredible. Chef Kylie is a rockstar! I am a retired restaurant manager/chef and was very impressed with the variety, quality, and freshness of the cuisine. From the yogurt parfaits to start our mornings before the main breakfast course to the filet and shrimp dinner and all the snacks in between, we couldn't have asked for more! Everyone had their favorite meal prepared throughout the week and the cocktails to go along with the meals really hit the spot. Even our 12 and 16 year old boys had mocktails to match our cocktails and felt very included. Even at home they are asking for the "Jake Killer" our captain's version of the famous "Pain Killer"
We let Jake to the planning and had no hard-set itinerary. It was extremely relaxing that way and all the pressure was on our captain to make sure he took us to the spots that he thought we would like best. After-all he is the expert, not us!
Captain Jake was extremely knowledgeable and helpful throughout the trip. He shared facts about the islands and personal experiences about each and every place we saw and stopped at. He was as excited as we were when we came across underwater delights. He made sure we saw Lobster, turtles, rays and even an Eagle Ray, sharks, and every fish that was on the fish chart. He was sure to guide everyone to snorkeling that matched their skill set and made sure nobody felt uncomfortable. He was with us every step of the way, or in this case every stroke. He guided us to on-shore excursions as well and educated us so well that we felt like we had been there before. We cannot say enough about both Captain Jake and Chef Kylie....The Best!!
Amazing Experience
I wish I were a more eloquent writer, as I know this will not properly communicate the amazing week we had onboard Serenity with Jake and Kylie. Serenity is a beautiful boat—clean, new, lovely cabins. The BVI is an amazing place with so much to see. That being said, what made this trip an incredible, unforgettable experience was being with Captain Jake and Kylie. Jake is an accomplished captain, who made us feel immediately comfortable. He answered (a ridiculous amount of) questions, shared his knowledge of sailing and took us on so many unique adventures. We snorkeled, swam, saw beautiful beaches, hit up such fun beach bars. Every day was something new. We had two teenage boys that Jake did everything to help make the trip more exciting for. Our oldest wanted to fish—-so lines were out at every opportunity (even when he was sleeping). He coordinated efoil lessons on Saba Rock—which was totally his idea after meeting our kids (must do if interested in something out of the ordinary). We had a guided tour (with both Jake and Kylie) through the Baths (OMG beautiful!) and saw the most breathtaking views in St John. The kids (and husband) rode tubes behind dingy, Jake and Kylie showed the kids how to get the sails up to sail—-we just did it all. At NO point, did Jake seem to tire of requests—-he was there to make sure every moment was safe, exciting and enjoyable.
Kylie welcomed us from the first moment with her warm smile, amazing food and cocktails/mocktails. We had more food than we could ever eat—-and each presentation was beautiful. After being on a beach or a snorkel, we would board the boat with a beautiful snack/drink combination. (The boys quietly told me they felt like celebrities every time this happened). Kylie had her hands full with our family—a food allergy and picky teenagers forced her to vary her dishes at every given meal, and she did with ease. Her homemade desserts were absolutely incredible—we are all still discussing her caramel dessert that we can’t remember the name of—but hails from her native South Africa. She did all the little things that go unnoticed, but make you feel so well take care of. Filling drinks while playing cards with family, putting things away—making sure we had sunscreen and bug spray. All those mom things that I ordinarily do—she had already done.
On top of these two being an amazing, TOP notch crew, they are two of the most lovely people we have ever had the pleasure to meet. Sharing a boat is a special, intimate experience and when we left, we all felt as if we were leaving family members behind. As a group, we laughed, played games at night, and enjoyed every bit of their company. We LOVED Serenity, we LOVED exploring the BVI, but our trip was MADE by this wonderful couple. We are already planning how we can sail with them again…and raving about them to anyone who asks. They are more than the ultimate professionals—they are two of the most special people we have had the privilege to spend time with. Anyone who is lucky enough to sail with them will be more than impressed.
Above and beyond any of our expectations
From the welcoming glasses of sparkling wine when we stepped aboard for the first time to the amazing water activities to the delicious food that was 5 star quality in variety, taste and presentation, to the expert guidance around the waters of the BVI and the USVI, we were continuously wowed by the crew of the Serenity. Kylie and Jake are husband and wife and the crew of the Serenity and they went above and beyond to make our week aboard the brand new sailing cat one of our most luxurious vacations ever.
The boat is extremely comfortable and well maintained to the best standards. Jake is a very professional captain but as a conductor of all our water activities, he made sure the kids (2 12 year old boys and a 10 year old girl) had an amazing time. The grown ups sometimes joined in - once we were able to put down that cocktail that was always delicious and dangerously easy to appear. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were always a treat - each meal a truly top notch dining experience. It was hard to believe that they were prepared in that galley that's smaller than most kitchens. The cabins were small as was expected but they very comfortable with queen sized beds - I had my best sleep in years during that week. Each of the 3 cabins had an attached bathroom and I cannot stress how important that was to our comfort levels. The boys decided to sleep in the bunk beds - those were tight but they didn't mind it at all. They used a 4th bathroom that was just outside the bunk bed space.
Kylie and Jake were able to effortlessly guide us through our time on board - from suggesting destinations to sail to, to suggesting an itinerary, to making sure that everything that was needed to sail a boat with 9 people on board was taken care of without us noticing or worrying about a thing. The Serenity is a lovely boat and Kylie and Jake are a wonderful people and a hardworking and extremely friendly crew. We are 2 families who have sailed bareboat (without a crew) together before so we can appreciate the work that goes into making it seem effortless and worry free. I cannot recommend this experience highly enough. I hope I get an opportunity to sail with them again.
BVI Trip
Thank you for the amazing trip! Kylie and Jake made this trip a real pleasure! From the stops and customized itinerary to what our group wanted to see to the presentation of breakfast and drinks! Boat was very comfortable, new and clear. Highly highly recommended!
Kylie and Jake = THE BEST!
Wow. Wow. Wow. Best vacation EVER!! Kylie and Jake are the kindness, most fun, thoughtful, coolest, cutest, most beautiful on the inside and out captain and chef! Loveeeee them so much! Never wanted to leave. We will be back!
We Love Jake and Kylie!!!
This was the best trip ever because of Jake and Kylie!!! They are the best captain and chef. They are so thoughtful, selfless, joyful, and kind. They truly felt like our sister and brother. We can’t wait to do this trip again with them. They make the best food and drinks. They are so fun and showed us the best parts of the islands. I’m so thankful for them. The boat is also amazing. I wish I could live on Serenity!! This trip was so perfect and I never wanted to leave.
Perfection!
Kylie and Jake are the absolute best! Kylie’s food was above 5 star status. Everything tasted wonderful. Jake was the ultimate captain. From knowing what stop to get to at a specific time and keeping us comfortable while in open waters, everything was perfect. They both also make great bartenders. Would recommend this trip to anyone and everyone. Best vacation ever because of Kylie and Jake!
Awesome Virgin Island Trip
Best trip ever!!! Boat was awesome. All of the stops in the BVI and US VI were great. However, the highlight of the trip was Captain Jake and Chef Kylie! They were perfect. Felt like they were part of our family.
The only way to tour the Virgin Islands!
This has by far been my favorite vacation ever! I don't think I want to vacation any other way again! The Crew, Jake and Eddie were awesome!! The views are absolutely breath taking, the history we learned.. these guys really know some interesting facts! Did I mention the snorkeling??? It was out of this world!! Foxy's is a must if you go to the BVI's as well as The Baths. We had so much fun!! The next to last day the guys put together Serenity Olympics for us!! They really worked well with our group to make sure we had a great time!!
Smooth sailing on stormy seas!
Pool’s open….
At the back of Serenity with Brooke and Kylie! What a treat to sail on with these amazing hard working young women! Captain Brooke is a steady, dedicated and capable breath of fresh air. Chef Kylie can whip up five star meals you can barely get in any restaurant. We asked for desserts… desserts we got and they were as innovative as they were beautiful and delicious!
The yacht was gorgeous and pristine. Brooke runs a tight ship when it comes to maintaining our personal floating hotel. She is quick and efficient and manages everything as if with magic.
Our sail week was unfortunately during some of the weirdest weather and Captain Brooke navigated us through it with aplomb! She was quick on her feet to find alternate sails and activities to keep us happy and busy!
These young women handled several different personalities and needs with such grace and agility. So relaxing to be in the care of these two inspired and dedicated women.
It was sad to say goodbye to my two new daughters! May we sail again soon!
Can't go wrong with Brooke and Kylie
Wow, what a blast we had on the Catamaran charter with Captain Brooke and Chef Kylie! The Serenity was a beautiful vessel and Brooke handled it as true professional. When we had some tough weather or A/C technical issues, we never lost confidence and comfort with Brooke at the helm. Kylie created some truly beautiful and delicious meals. And the desserts were just phenomenal. It was unbelievable what she could do in that small galley kitchen.
Brooke and Kylie were so attentive and helpful; organizing activities and flexing our schedule as needed based on weather; arranging water and land taxis when needed; showing us the coolest spots on the islands. They joined us for a quite rainy dinner at Saba Rock and entertained us onboard with custom cocktails and games.
It was really hard to say goodbye to these two new family members.
Book it!
My family of 4 adults just had an amazing week with Captain Brooke and Chef Kylie on Serenity. Due to winter weather, we had delays with two of our arrivals and Brooke and Kylie had it all worked out to accommodate late arrivals and alternate pickup locations. Adjustment were made in our itinerary to get us to our requested destinations as well as the locations that Captain Brooke knew would be good sailing for the weather that we had. The food was amazing at every meal and we had more than we could have possibly eaten. Cold drinks to satisfy a wide range of tastes were available and Kylie went out of her way to fulfill a few non-traditional tastes! Game nights with the crew, dinner together at Saba Rock, trips ashore…Brooke and Kaylie became our extended family for the week and we had so much fun. Serenity is a beautiful yacht with comfortable seating and sleeping. She is kept in top shape and is very comfortable to sail aboard. This was our first charter vacation, and our entire family felt like it was the best vacation that we had ever been on. I can’t give enough credit to Brooke and Kylie for a tremendous week in the BVI! Leave your options open on your preference sheet and you will not be disappointed with the trip that this crew puts together for you. Happy sailing!
Reviews
My family of 4 adults just had an amazing week with Captain Brooke and Chef Kylie on Serenity. Due to winter weather, we had delays with two of our arrivals and Brooke and Kylie had it all worked out to accommodate late arrivals and alternate pickup locations. Adjustment were made in our itinerary to get us to our requested destinations as well as the locations that Captain Brooke knew would be good sailing for the weather that we had. The food was amazing at every meal and we had more than we could have possibly eaten. Cold drinks to satisfy a wide range of tastes were available and Kylie went out of her way to fulfill a few non-traditional tastes! Game nights with the crew, dinner together at Saba Rock, trips ashore…Brooke and Kaylie became our extended family for the week and we had so much fun. Serenity is a beautiful yacht with comfortable seating and sleeping. She is kept in top shape and is very comfortable to sail aboard. This was our first charter vacation, and our entire family felt like it was the best vacation that we had ever been on. I can’t give enough credit to Brooke and Kylie for a tremendous week in the BVI! Leave your options open on your preference sheet and you will not be disappointed with the trip that this crew puts together for you. Happy sailing!