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For those with only a short time on the Island but who are interested in seeing some of its less traversed delights, charter cruises provide the ultimate opportunity. Whether interested in a sunset sail for two, a cocktail party for 50, or just a hassle-free snorkeling expedition, the trip need only be a two-minute ferry ride away. Located just off the Darrell's Wharf Ferry stop, Fantasea Cruises can provide any of a number of water-based adventures courtesy of a three-man crew trained to meet the needs of discerning clients, said the company's owners /operators Ken Dallas and Michael Peers. "Bermuda is a small island and it's becoming more and more populated,'' said Mr.
Dallas. "The only way you're able to get away from it all is to take to the water, and boating is a great way to entertain or just relax and see some of the most beautiful scenery Bermuda has to offer.'' Although the company has been in operation for only two years, Mr. Dallas and Mr. Peers have more than 40 years of sailing experience between them and it was this experience which led them to select their 55-foot luxury Catamaran, Aristocat . "We chose the Catamaran because of its excellent charter capabilities,'' said Mr. Dallas.
"The Aristocat is great, even for large groups, because she offers amenities and luxuries comparable to a large, exclusive motor yacht.'' According to Mr.
Dallas, outside of all that she offers to those on board, the Catamaran's past is laden with intrigue. "A family in England had the boat built there but evidently fell into debt soon after,'' he explained. "The owner's nephew, however, had meanwhile become very fond of the boat and stole it and fled to avoid it being repossessed by the family's many creditors. The nephew sailed the Aristocat down to the Caribbean where he remained until he felt it safe to return to England. However, for some reason, we don't know why because he really was attached to her, he decided to abandon the Catamaran on his return voyage to the United Kingdom and she ended up in Bermuda.'' Today however, the Aristocat plays host to any number of visitors and locals, all of whom express their extreme delight that she was abandoned in Bermuda. "Chartering a yacht is a great way to entertain, sightsee or just have fun and relax,'' added Mr.
Dallas. "For many visitors, the cost of renting a boat for a day is too expensive. At Fantasea Cruises, we arrange a large variety of custom charters.
You can charter the entire boat, or you are welcome to come along and join one of our parties at very little cost and we promise lots of fun. "This season, Fantasea Cruises will be offering a variety of cruises specifically suited for pure enjoyment; things such as happy hour cocktail sails, weekend beach parties and dinner cruises. And combined with our affiliated companies, Fantasea Diving and South Side Scuba, we can arrange for any water-based activity from diving beneath the coral reefs to parasailing high above the ocean surface. We also offer live entertainment, and promise traditional `Bermudian' songs. Those interested in finding out more about charter sailing may contact Fantasea Cruises at 236-1300.
