Yacht Destination: Bermuda

Known as the boating capital of the Atlantic, the northern most coral reef beauty Bermuda is a hot yacht destination. Bermuda’s close destination to the United States and strategic transatlantic location make is a prime destination for yachting lovers. Bermuda’s low key nightlife differentiate it from its Caribbean neighbors and thus, make it more exciting for yachting. The entertainment on the island centers around gathering at a local pub for some tasty Rum or taking part in one of the islands’ many sailing regattas. The most famous is the biannual 635-mile Newport-Bermuda Yacht Races which just celebrated its 100th anniversary. Imagine sailing away to an isolated island with pink sandy beaches, turquoise crystal waters and rich unspoiled nature. Legislators of the island are very careful to keep this island gem as perfect as possible by imposing environmental measures such as having only one car per household and that tourists are allowed to drive only scooters inland. Most yachts stay for only a week going around the three major harbors: the historic St. George which was Bermuda’s first capital, the Royal Naval Dockyard, and the present capital city of Hamilton.

You don’t have a yacht yet but enjoy sailing? Don’t worry! There are great charter sailing services in this yachting island. I recommend SailBermuda.com which uses a 51ft sail boat “Shekynah” for charter sail and snorkeling. You can find the contact info and rates on their website and begin your great sailing adventure in the exciting Bermudian waters.

Things to See: Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches and so, it is a definite must to spend a lot of time under the sun on the pristine soft pinkish sand. The nature of the island is absolutely stunning and you will find many secluded coves and and lagoons. In these breath-taking paradise hide-aways you can enjoy private time swimming in the warm azure waters. Bike rides or hiking is an excitement on the island as there are many lush gardens with lilies and hibiscus and unspoiled forests. You can actually walk the entire island on the remains of the railway trail which was in existence for only 17 years until 1948. Main attractions are the Bermuda zoo, the Botanical Gardens, the Aquarium and the Maritime Museum in the Royal Naval Dockyard. For all scuba divers, Bermuda is a true paradise as it has many ship wrecks and coral reefs with unlimited visibility in the crystal clear waters. Bermuda consists of 150 small islands which are formed from the exposed peaks of the underwater volcanic mountain. You can discover all of their beauty and be amazed at how small some of them are.

How far: The sailing time to Bermuda from New York is approximately five and a half days on a 40ft yacht as the distance between the two is 1284 km. And from North Carolina to Bermuda it can be as short as 36 hours on a 140ft yacht as it is 1030 km away.

Water Jewellery: Carolina Bucci Exclusive Limited Edition

The Florence-born and raised jewellery designer, Carolina Bucci has created a limited edition collection to support WaterAid’s work. WaterAid is a charity which helps some of the world’s poorest people to have access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. The exclusive jewellery Italian designer has created two pieces; a drop pendant necklace and a bracelet, both of which will be on sale from the end of July until the end of December of 2008.

The lucky tie bracelet is made of 18 carat gold and soft grey silk and it is priced at £295. Each bracelet bought would guarantee safe water and sanitation to a family of four. The drop shaped pendant necklace is made of 18 carat gold and covered with white and blue diamonds, costing £2595. An entire village is equipped with a lasting supply of safe water and sanitation when somebody buys one of these necklaces.

“I am really excited to be collaborating with WaterAid on these pieces of jewellery”, says Carolina. “WaterAid’s vision of a world where everyone has access to clean water and sanitation is one which I believe passionately in.”

The beautiful pieces are available from the Carolina Bucci boutiques, Browns and other selected retailers worldwide. For more information, visit her website.