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| GUESTS COMMENTS | | January 2012 - 40th Anniversary cruise | Alan,
Celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary on the Catalyst was our best vacation ever. The Virgin Islands provide a beautiful setting for such a special time and you helped us get the most out of them. From the charm and serenity of places like Cooper's Island to the adventure and stunning beauty of Virgin Gorda every stop was perfect and unique. This is the vacation against which all of our others will be measured.
And the S/V Catalyst makes the prefect base from which to enjoy the islands. The outstanding captain and crew, spacious quarters, wide variety of water toys and especially the bean bag beds in the trampoline make this an exceptional vessel. But the most exceptional feature of the Catalyst is the food that comes out of her galley. Every meal, snack and beverage was worthy of a five star restaurant with service to match. You've managed to create a vacation fantasyland and we consider ourselves fortunate to have been able to enjoy some time there.
Thanks,
Byron and Marilyn
| | Christmas December 2011 | Monica and I, our twin 10 year olds, Jack and Olivia and my mother, Nancy recently set sail with Captain Alan for a week on the Catalyst. We travel often and have enjoyed beach vacations throughout the world, but nothing compared to this. The British Virgin Islands are beautiful and Alan is an outstanding captain, chef and fantastic guide. He and the entire experience truly exceeded our expectations.
Upon arrival, we kicked of our shoes and never put them back on for a week. We awoke each morning to the smell of fresh coffee and bacon or pancakes. We then sailed from island to island for a day of hikes, snorkeling, inner tubing, wake boarding, stand up paddle boarding and beach activities. When we were on the boat, there was plenty of room to spread out. Each afternoon we'd have cocktails and snacks on the boat and frequented Foxy's, the Willy T, Myett's and the like each night.
Alan outdoes himself with the food and drinks, so be sure to take advantage of his skills as a chef.
We had never stayed on a boat and are not sailors, yet we were comfortable the entire trip. We never once worried about the safety of our kids and they absolutely loved the experience. They are already asking when we can do it again. If you are considering a trip aboard the Catalyst, I can highly recommend it. This was a truly unique experience.
Sean
| | Lewis...Feb. 2010 | Well what can I say. This was one of the best vacations I have ever had! My two brothers and I went down to the B.V.I. hoping for a good time, and ended with a great time. Our Captain, ( Allan Roberts ) bent over backward to be sure we were enjoying ourselves. Not only did he ask us what we wanted to do, but made suggestions as to what we might do, (otherwise we would have missed a lot). As well, he is a patient and understanding divemaster, ( we are qualified, but sporatic divers ) And set the dives to our abilities starting at beginner to more advanced, always making us comfortable, and being sure that the dives were enjoyable and interesting.
The work that he put in to getting us to see all that was the B.V.I.
in the time we were there was amzing, as was the food! You gotta try a Catalyst Burger! Breakfast lunch and dinner are worthy of a 5 star restaraunt, but consumed not overlooking the water, but on the water.
Thanks Allan!
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| Garrison Jan. 2010 | Dear Gail,
I just want to take a moment to thank you for getting me set up with Captain Alan Roberts on “Catalyst”. Gwen and I just got back from our second annual trip with Al. It was as spectacular as the first, and then some….At my request, we snorkeled twice a day. Never the same spot twice, and each dive more spectacular than the last. Gwen is afraid of boats, water, and fish, yet, just like last time, she came away begging me to do it again next year. One of the hard things I have a hard time describing to my friends, is the feeling you get from having a “postcard view”, in all directions, every moment, of every day, for an entire week. After dinner, we lay on the soft trampoline type bow, gazing at stars, with a balmy breeze soothing our minds, bodies, and spirits.
Somehow every gorgeous bay had something special to offer. We walked the most beautiful beaches we’ve ever seen, on islands ranging from secluded, to deserted. We took the most spectacular hike I’ve ever taken, from quiet bay, to secluded polished rock shoreline, then elevating and narrowing to it’s completion atop a jagged cliff, with a 200 foot drop to wave beaten rocks, and a panoramic view as far as the eye can see….. We’re not big party animals, but when we wanted to socialize a bit, Al just set us up in a great beach place with live music, and a nice mix of locals, and fellow “happy” sailors.
My lame descriptive ability couldn’t possibly do justice the food Al conjured up. By day three, I was completely embarrassed by the amount of “food worship” we were heaping on him…..Seriously, he must have thought we’d just come off a 40 day hunger strike or something. I doubt “Oprah” gets food as good as that! The swordfish with mango salsa was amazing. The mahi mahi with some crazy reduction sauce was beyond description. Snack time with Al’s famous guacamole dip, and a fruity little rum drink, always works for us as well.
I just want to finish by saying that the most important ingredient on this trip, is Captain Al. He takes this amazing paradise of a location, and allows you to fully experience, and enjoy it, in your own personal way. He’s extremely knowledgeable, congenial, confident, and witty. Yet he always seems to be at the edges of your “vacation of a lifetime”. He’s not trying to be the show. He’s allowing you to enjoy the “real show”, which is this spectacular group of islands, and the waters surrounding them. He’s always there when you need him, yet he’s “NEVER” there when you don’t need him. Gwen and I think the world of him!!!!! His patience, humility, and ego-less presence, make him a pleasure to be around. He has our profound thanks, and we thank you for putting us together.
My apologies for rambling, but it was all so wonderful, that I get a bit excited describing it. I am including my phone number, and would drop whatever I’m doing, just to speak with anyone interested in sailing with Al Roberts aboard “Catalyst”. I couldn’t possibly recommend him in strong enough terms!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Sailing!
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| St. Paddys Day - 40th Birthday Cruise March 2011 | When my wife and I started seriously looking into chartering a Cat for my 40th, we only made a few searches before we kept going back to Cpt. Alan's page with his boat Catalyst. We're so glad that we went with our gut on this. We had an amazing time. The trip was so much more than we had expected.
After more than a year of built up anticipation and fantasizing about it, one fears that you'll be let down by what actually happens. Not the case here. We hit St. John, Sandy Spit, Cane Garden Bay, Jost Van Dyke (for St. Patrick's Day), Cooper, Virgin Gorda, and Norman Islands. Including visits to The Baths, Bitter End, Pirate's Bight, and the Willy T. As well as a full moon party in Trellis Bay, lots of snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding. We fit so much into this trip, it felt as though we had been on board for two weeks!
As for our dear Captain Alan, he's not only adept at handling his vessel, but superb at handling a group of raucous 40 somethings looking for fun. He's got a very professional style that shows he's always anticipating guests needs and perfectly customizing their experience. He worked with us, applying his knowledge of "island time", in creating an itinerary that took care of our few specific requests. Also, he's a masterful concierge. Planning for taxis, making reservations for dinner or tours, providing us with all options at every harbour, bay or mooring. As his wards, we knew we were in very capable, and somewhat "salty", hands.
As previous reviews have claimed, he is a master of cuisine. Our food experiences were always better on the boat. How does he do it? It was all well thought out, perfectly presented, and tasted superb. Some of our highlights were: Seared Sesame Ahi, Catalyst Burgers, Grilled Brats w/ Caramelized Onions, Coconut Curry Shrimp & Rice, Filet Mignon over Wasabi Potatoes with Roasted Asparagus and a Balsamic Redux, and pretty much every breakfast, no matter how simple or involved. There's nothing like waking up on a boat and realizing you're not at home, going up on deck with your coffee and just soaking it in, knowing that you're in for another amazing day, and then BAM! Time for breakfast. There's also a magic cooler that resides behind the Captain's chair. It had a way of replenishing itself with ice and beer all week long; all the while as we tried our best to empty it!
After our week of exploration, revelry, and relaxation, Catalyst was more more than just our boat, it was our home. Alan had become a friend, and all of us had fallen in love with the Virgin Islands and the water that surrounds them. We're left with so many memories and great satisfaction in our commitment to sail with Catalyst. Thanks so much to you Alan. It was indeed a trip of a lifetime.
Woody J.
Charlotte, NC
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| March 2009 | Sailing on Catalyst was an amazing, Outstanding, once in a lifetime (I hope not) experience. I can’t say enough about this trip to do it justice. The boat was beautiful, comfortable and stocked for any of our meals and then some. The itinerary was wonderfully planned and executed. The food that Alan prepared was fabulous, varied, delectable, and suited for our specific tastes. The dining was so varied and spectacular, as to be impossible to describe.
But what truly made this trip perfect was the “CREW”. Alan creates an environment that is so relaxed, comfortable, enlightening, enriching, friendly and fun, that I felt I was sailing with “family” (Only way better). Not only did he treat us wonderfully, he was extra ordinarily respectful and kind to Laura (His crew for the trip). She was absolutely sweet, kind gracious and helped in every way possible.
Gwen and I would recommend a vacation aboard the Catalyst in the strongest possible terms. I only wish Alan and Laura could understand the depth and richness of the experience they provided to us. It is a gift that we will always treasure!!!!!!
Most sincerely and gratefully yours
Gregg J Garrison
March 4th, 2009
| | 2009 Mark, Stephanie, Taylor and Natalie Clifford | Alan,
It's been the better part of a year since our sail aboard Catalyst but all of us still reminisce about the fantastic time we had. Sitting here at home watching the snow fall has me day-dreaming about another relaxing cruise through the BVI with complete confidence in our captain's skills, both at the helm and in the galley. Our two-day stop in Anegada was unforgettable as were our stops at Norman Island, Jost Van Dyke and Leverick Bay. But it was your recommendation that led us to two spots we hadn't seen on our two previous trips to the BVI, Sandy Spit and Cane Garden Bay, both of which were absolutely beautiful. These great memories will certainly last a lifetime and we all look forward to the next time we see you aboard Catalyst.
Cheers,
Mark, Stephanie, Taylor and Natalie Clifford Blairstown, NJ USA
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| Laura A. Pawlow, Ph.D. | Spending 5 days sailing the Caribbean on the Catalyst was the most amazing vacation my husband and I have ever experienced! Not having grown up on the water, I have to admit I was pretty nervous about the idea of spending 5 days on a boat, but it turns out I had nothing to worry about. Captain Alan's competence completely put my mind at ease and the accommodations had all the comforts of home. The ship is clean and beautiful and our host was wonderful - he spoiled us with delectable meals every night and made sure we were comfortable and having a great time - I wanted to take him home with us! Our days were spent sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and soaking up the sun, and after all that we'd wind down with a wonderful dinner, some cocktails, and conversation under the beautiful stars. We recommend the Catalyst without reservation to anyone thinking about a sailing vacation, and we can't wait to return ourselves!
| | The de Groen Charter | Dear Alan,
On behalf of the whole de Groen family I would like to thank you and Ashley for a truly unforgettable sailing vacation in the BVI. From start to finish you planned a perfect trip for us. The itinerary was varied, very well organized and offered something for everyone: breathtaking beauty, incredible snorkeling, local color, an introduction to scuba diving, fantastic sailing (especially with your beautiful gennaker), enough beaching and swimming to get us through the long, cold Dutch winter and of course, incredibly delicious meals, snacks and cocktails. Anne-Elise is still talking about chocolate fondue under the stars aboard her “very own private yacht” and I marvel at the gourmet meals you magically produced from such a small kitchen! We enjoyed exploring the islands with you and appreciated your extensive knowledge of the area and the local “hotspots”. We felt supremely pampered and well taken care of and will always cherish our memories of our vacation aboard the Catalyst. With many thanks, Laura de Groen, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | Willis Charter | Q : Was the condition of the yacht up to your expectations?
A : I have never been on a catamaran before and I loved it! Everything was great!
Q: Did you find your accomodations comfortable?
A: We were in the smaller cabin but it was sufficient considering the fact that we could go up front or sit around the table in back.
Q: Was the crew attentive to your needs?
A: Alan made us feel very comfortable and went out of his way to do even more than we needed.
Q: Did you enjoy the meals and beverages served aboard?
A: Alan did a great job and everything was delicious.
Q: Was the itenerary fun and exciting?
A: Absolutely - even better than I expected - we saw 6 islands in 6 days.
Q: Would you charter this yacht again?
A: Would love to
This was probably the best vacation I've ever been on. Alan was fun, entertaining and added to the trip. He gave us information and pointed out sights as we sailed. | | January 2011 | Spending a week on a sailboat, exploring the BVIs has always been a dream of mine – one that I had long before I met my husband and got married four years ago. Unfortunately for me, I married a man who is not a fan of boats and has a past experience with sea sickness that prevented him from sharing this dream of mine. However, as my 40th birthday was approaching, and we were discussing what we could do to celebrate, my sweet husband had a change of heart and told me to go ahead and book it!
You can imagine my excitement – I was beyond thrilled, and didn’t waste a minute. I immediately went to the Virgin Island Sailing website and started researching boats and discussing options with Gail. Within a week, I had our charter booked, our plane tickets purchased and our hotel room in St. Thomas reserved for the night prior to boarding the boat.
I originally was looking at monohulls but after reading reviews and talking with Gail, I decided that a catamaran would be the best option for me and my husband, taking into consideration his concerns about living on a boat for a week and being sea sick. We were told that a catamaran would be much more stable and have a lot more living and hanging out space. I also spent quite a bit of time researching different captains. If we were going to be on a boat for a week with another person, I wanted to make sure it was with someone that we would enjoy and get along with.
Picking Alan Roberts and the Catalyst was definitely one of the best decisions that I made – one that made our trip not just unbelievably great, but truly fabulous! Since there were just two of us, we did the Captain Only option – full board which turned out perfectly.
Despite all my husband’s concerns and anxiety about the trip, we both ended up having an absolutely fabulous time. Neither one of us got sea sick. My husband took one Bonine a day as a precaution and I wore sea band, but we both felt great every day. The catamaran turned out to be a wonderful choice for us. The boat was stable while sailing, and we couldn’t believe all the room we had on the boat. There was plenty of room for lying in the sun, hanging out on the boat at night, reading, dining, sleeping etc. Our favorite spot on the boat was on the trampolines – we would lay there while sailing, enjoying the occasional splashes from the waves and would spend evenings there gazing at the stars. Our bedroom and bathroom were more than adequate, and my husband raved about the quality of sleep and the amazing dreams he had each and every night – something that rarely happens back home on solid ground.
As wonderful as the Catalyst was, Captain Alan was the icing on the cake! From the moment we stepped on board, he was there to help us feel comfortable and to have an amazing vacation. He took into consideration our wishes for our vacation and then served as our guide to turn our desires into reality. Each day, we sailed to a different island and had a completely different and amazing experience every place we went. We snorkeled most every day, I tried the stand-up paddle board, I water skied – and actually got up on my first try (not on my second or third, but oh well…..), we hung out in the floating water chairs, we hiked and visited sugar cane ruins, we hung out on beautiful sandy, white beaches, we visited beach bars, shops and restaurants, heard some great reggae bands and saw the most amazing scenery in the world. When we realized that we were there during the week of the full moon, Alan helped to rearrange our itinerary so that we could attend the amazing Full Moon Party at Trellis Bay which was quite the experience – not one to be missed! Alan was a fabulous tour guide, making sure to take us to all the “must see” spots and then to other areas off the beaten path. He was also able to accommodate other “special requests” such as my husband’s desire to watch or hear the football playoffs – Alan and my husband enjoyed the games on Sirius radio on the boat, and Alan even radioed one of the beach bars to see if they were showing the games. And when I decided that I needed to get at least one run in during the week, he took me over to an island and pointed out a good running trail. My husband and I were impressed with Alan’s knowledge of the area and his ability to make sure that we had everything we needed while also giving us more than enough privacy and space to enjoy activities on our own. He always seemed to be there when we needed him, and conveniently out of sight when we didn’t.
The highlight of the trip and what made our choice of the Catalyst and Alan the absolute right one was the food – the food was unbelievable! We were blown away by every meal – breakfast, lunch, happy hour snacks and dinner were all something we anticipated each day. We constantly told Alan that he needs to open his own restaurant or, at the least, publish a cookbook full of Catalyst recipes. Every meal we ate was better than the last, and each meal was better than the food we typically get in the nicest restaurants in our town. I don’t know how he does it, but he works magic in the Catalyst’s small galley kitchen. My husband and I have never eaten so well in our lives and it was definitely a wake up call when we arrived home and had to cook for ourselves again. Between the food and the fabulous drinks – margaritas, pina coladas and bushwhackers – that Alan mixed up for us, we were in foodie heaven!
While we saw many other bigger, newer or more expensive boats during our trip, my husband and I realized that everyone else on those boats were seeing the exact same sights that we were and having the same experience, but we felt certain that they weren’t eating nearly as well or enjoying the company of their captain as much as we did ours. We would definitely recommend the Catalyst and Captain Alan to anyone considering a sailing trip through the BVIs and hope to return ourselves some day!
Christy
Raleigh, NC
| | | We recently returned from a charter with Alan Roberts on the Catalyst. The trip was outstanding in every way! I highly recommend Alan as a Captain and Chef. The food was creative, attractively presented and delicious! My husband and I had a medical emergency and he was extremely accommodating in altering his plans to take care of our needs. We look forward to returning again for a fun filled week with Captain Alan.
Carol Adelaar
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