August 15, 2010
We had the great pleasure of sailing on the Nightwind with Captain Rick and his firstmate, Chelsea, in early August. We were coming off a cruise ship but arranged this on our own based on the great reviews we saw on CruiseCritic. And we were not disappointed.
This was the first sailing adventure for most the 8 people in our group and what a great first experience. Everyone had a fantastic time - some of the best snorkeling I've ever done. I asked for sea turtles - and I got more than I ever imagined. The company was great, the food was excellent - much better than we expected for a sailing excursion.
I'd highly recommend this for anyone looking for a private charter - so far superior to the large group, 1/2 day tours. Well worth the money.
Thanks Rick - don't be surprised if we're back again!

August 11, 2010
My wife and I were taking our yearly trip and decided that we would go to St. Thomas. One thing we were sure we wanted to do was spend a day sailing around the islands of St. John and St. Thomas. I spent some time researching the various day sails available in St. Thomas. After considering price, amenities, duration, and trip schedule we decided that Yacht Nightwind was the best choice. It was absolutely the right choice! The crew (Captain Rick and Chelsea) were very friendly and informative. Both had a wealth of knowledge about the area and took care of everyone on board. Other than my wife and myself there was another group of eight people, two of whom were returning for their second trip on the Nightwind. There was plenty of room on the boat and not at all overcrowded like some of the other daysails I observed while in St. Thomas. We set sail at 9 am, only after a platter of pastries and a round of drinks (Rick's rum punch, beer, mimosas, coffee, soft drinks, etc.) We sailed over to St. John for our first stop. After snorkeling with sea turtles for about 90 minutes lunch was ready. On top of more drinks Rick and Chelsea prepared a nice meal that left the group of us full and ready for more snorkeling. We sailed to another great spot with beautiful reefs and tons of fish. Seeing that we still had some time left in the afternoon Captain Rick took us to a great spot that had a couple of caves you could swim through. To sum it up, the day offered endless drinks, great food, terrific snorkeling, a great boat, and an awesome crew. Without hesitation we would come back to St. Thomas and sail with Rick and Chelsea.

June 29, 2010
We sailed with Captain Rick & First Mate Wesley with our family of 14 who were all on vacation in St. Thomas together. Some of us were a little hesitant to go at first due to it being an all day excursion and the price. We were all certainly glad we made the decision to go!! Rick was wonderful and full of information on the islands surrounding St. Thomas. Food & drink was plentiful and delicious! My father started getting seasick on the way to our first stop so Captain Rick kindly put the sail up and started the engine again so we wouldn't sway so much. I was also having a hard time with the boat "tipping" to one side so much and he was so gracious and told me exactly where to stand to avoid that. Our first stop was in a beautiful cove I believe called "Hawksnest Bay". The water was the most turquoise and clear I have ever seen. Most people in our group snorkeled but for those of us who didn’t want to, Rick took us to the small "postage stamp" beach in the dingy. Absolutely gorgeous scenery. My 9 year old daughter had her first snorkeling experience and just loved it! Rick had all the equipment necessary including noodles for the kids (and adults) to use. Our second stop was "honeymoon beach" which was much bigger. Just as beautiful. The sail back he allowed my father to steer the boat to help with his motion sickness and which was very fun for him and for all of us! We also had my 14 month old niece on the boat who did very well, Book this trip. You won’t be disappointed!!!

June 22, 2010
My husband and I did a Day Sail on the Morningstar a year ago, and had a great experience. We wanted to go back, but the Morningstar only holds 6 passengers, and we had a group of 8. So, they recommended we try the Nightwind so that all of us could go together. We all had a great time. We were on the boat with three other passengers and we all got along well. The food and drinks were plentiful and delicious. Chelsea gave us interesting tidbits on the islands and history, while Rick took our prior sailing destinations into consideration and crafted a customized route for our group so we could see new places. The snorkeling locations we anchored at were great. I especially liked the "Conch Shell graveyard" off of Lovango Cay. The only downside was that all 8 of us got burned to a crisp after the day on the water, even with multiple sunscreen applications and the shade awnings. But we certainly can't hold that against Rick and Chelsea. We would definitely recommend the Nightwind - 2 thumbs up (or 16 thumbs up, from all of us)!

June 22, 2010
We just returned from St. John, VI and spent a day on the Nightwind. It was a wonderful experience from start to end. Rick came over to Cruz Bay and picked us up, we did not have to go over to St. Thomas. We sailed around the islands and stopped at two beautiful locations to swim and snorkel. He had more than enough snorkel gear for all 14 of us. He also had a dinghy that he used to bring anyone who didn't want to swim to the beach. My son, who is terrified of the water, took the ride. We had all the drinks and food we could want and Rick's famous punch was delicious! Rick and Chelsea were very professional, but so much fun to spend the day with! I would highly recommend the Nightwind.

June 14, 2010
I am not one to spend a lot of money on day trips. However, this experience was worth every penny. My extended family, my son and I spent a full day on Rick's sailboat in late May, 2010. The cordial professionalism of Rick and his first mate set a high bar for service in the islands. They were very knowledgeable and clearly knew what they were doing. The food was delicious and the snorkeling was great. Rick could not have been nicer to my five year old son who had his first experience piloting a sailboat. I would fully recommend the Yacht Nightwind to anyone considering a day trip in the USVI.

June 11, 2010
Captain Rick and First Mate Chelsea made this cruise the highlight of our trip. They were so accommodating when it came to breakfast and lunch (such great food!!), drinks and snorkel gear. They both have a true passion for sailing and the ocean. Chelsea gave us a little history on all the islands we encountered and even snagged a lobster for Capt. Rick! We were taken to excellent spots and never felt rushed. Absolute best part of our St. Thomas vacation.

June 10, 2010
We chartered the Nightwind for a day sail when we cruised into St. Thomas for a day. Everything went perfectly. They helped us arrange taxi transport that was waiting for us as we got off the cruise ship, and we were on the yacht and heading out just a little over 30 minutes after we came off the cruise ship. The sailing day was great. We sailed to St. John, and went snorkeling in two different coves in a beautiful area. Chelsea (the crew) got out and helped us find some interesting things to see.
The food, drinks and service were all first class. We had a great time.

May 31, 2010
We spent the day on Yacht Nightwind with Captain Rick and First Mate Chelsea today. We booked a private charter to treat our family and close friends that travelled to St Thomas for our wedding to a day of fun. Everyone is saying that this is the highlight of the trip (aside from the wedding of course). We had an AMAZING time!! Captain Rick was a load of fun. Chelsea was great and had lots of tidbits to share about the islands, snorkeling spots etc. The food was awesome....the chicken is great!! The drinks were flowing all day. Captain Rick picked two great snorkeling spots!! My mom who doesn't swim (she swears she sinks like a rock) had a BLAST snorkeling thanks to Captain Rick. We come down every year as my husband was raised here and still has family here, and this is definitely the best trip yet. We will be back to see Captain Rick soon!! Thank you Cathy, Rick and Chelsea for a totally awesome day!!!!!

May 24, 2010
Nightwind is a terrific experience. Captain Rick makes everyone at home, provides great food, attentive service and a fully-stocked bar. The boat is a beauty and the snorkel spots he took us to were secluded and full of tropical fish. This is a must if you are vacationing in St Thomas!

May 20, 2010
This was a wonderful day of sailing. Rick and Chelsea were great hosts and went out of their way to make everyone feel welcome. We took a handicapped daughter who doesn't snorkel and I felt comfortable leaving her on board while we swam. We went to 2 locations and got a snorkeling tour by Chelsea, the first mate. The food was home cooked and very good, and an open bar. We had a GREAT day! The Wilson Family

May 13, 2010
Hi, my name is Jim Kas. May 5, 2010, myself and 8 friends experienced the day sail on Nightwind. We were at a villa for the week, but this was the highlight of the trip. Food: continental breakfast, lunch chicken, pasta salad, breads, fruit, outstanding. Captain Rick was great. Knowledgeable, told a few good stories, he made the trip relaxing and a lot of fun. Chelsea, his first mate was my favorite, book the ship and you’ll see why. Rick and Chelsea could not have given us more, asking constantly if we wanted another drink from their full stocked bar. I am not big on snorkeling, but the people I went with are and they really enjoyed it. Rick had all the gear and gave us instruction on how to use it. Chelsea dove down and brought up things from the ocean floor for us to see. Captain Rick let me steer the sailboat for about 45 min. For me this was very big fun. All the people on the boat at the end of the week rated it the best thing we did. Thank you, Captain Rick and Chelsea for a great time. We are cruising next year with a stop in St Thomas. The Nightwind is at the top of our list for another trip.

April 25, 2010
Beautiful boat, entertaining captain, great food and drinks and a mate who loves the ocean. Loved the sail and the snorkeling. A definite "do again".

April 22, 2010
I had never been on a sailboat before and was really looking forward to a day on the water. I was not disappointed; Captain Rick and Chelsea were great. The day was fantastic. The snorkeling was wonderful and the food was delicious. Captain Rick's rum punch didn't disappoint either. We will certainly book another trip with them in the future. I highly recommend this day trip.

April 2010
We came as a party of 4, who had never been on a sailboat in our lives. We were very pleased at the experience and professionalism of Captain Rick and First Mate Cathy. We will definitely be back next time we visit St. Thomas. Also Captain Rick is very familiar with amazing snorkel locations to visit and both places we went on our sail where amazing. The food was spectacular, I had never liked pasta salad in my life, but I must say that Cathy's tropical pasta salad is to die for, now I just need to find a suitable recipe for my wife to make that might compare. I recommend this experience to everyone I know who is thinking of visiting St. Thomas. The "Yacht Nightwind" is an amazing craft that is both beautiful and unique. Thanks again Rick & Cathy for an amazing experience.

April 2010
We live in the Virgin Islands and have had family down to visit. Twice we have taken visitors out on Nightwind and both times is was a great experience. Captain and crew are very friendly, the sailing was exceptional and we did some snorkeling as well (which is always fun and interesting). As locals, we highly recommend this sailing adventure if you visiting the Virgin Islands.

April 2010
My husband and I sailed with Captain Rick and First Mate Chelsea on the beautiful sailing yacht "Nightwind" last week and had a fantastic time! The boat was pretty full - probably 18 guests - and yet there was still plenty of room for everyone to move around. There was sun and/or shade to sit in, depending on your preference (but bring lots of sunscreen!). The food was delicious and plentiful (there is always something being offered) and drinks of all kinds were flowing freely all day. The best part, though (well, other than the gorgeous surroundings in St Thomas and St John) was the friendliness, helpfulness and kindness of Rick, Cathy and Chelsea. Nicer folks cannot be found! They went out of their way to cater to each person's needs on that sail and everyone was smiling and happy all day. We visit the USVI often, but his was our first sail with Captain Rick. Now that we know about Nightwind, we will be booking with them again our next trip!

March 2010
We chartered Yacht Nightwind for our group of 14 during spring break --March 2010. There were 14 in our party and yacht Nightwind had plenty of room for all of us! From the very beginning Captain Rick and First Mate Chelsea made us feel right at home. They greeted us with an assortment of fruits and breakfast breads--all adorned with beautiful flowers. On the way as we sailed Capt. Rick told us all about the islands surrounding St. Thomas. We stopped at two snorkeling places that were absolutely gorgeous with lots of marine life! In between our snorkeling trips we were served a beautiful array of pastas, breads and the most wonderful chicken. ---not to leave out the triple chocolate cake!
Our group had the best time and there was much to see. Everyone in our party agreed that this was the best excursion that we have ever been on!
Thank you Capt. Rick and Chelsea!

March 2010
March 2010, family of 12! By chance we were referred to Nightwind. The collective memories of the snorkeling, coral, fish, sea turtles, starfish, and yes, the faces of many while the boat is heeling....priceless! Rick and Chelsea were awesome, catering to breakfast, lunch, snacks, snorkel needs, etc. This was a fabulous day for our family.

March 2010
We took a day sail on Nightwind from St Thomas to St John with friends and family (about 7 young children) and had a perfect day. The crew was a pleasure; kind, attentive, helpful and terrific hosts. The boat was beautiful, and the trip was relaxing, calm and just right for young family trip. The food and drinks were terrific, from the fresh banana bread, to the hand mixed pain killer! The snorkeling was great, and the crew made it really easy with gear onboard, floats, and even a fresh water rinse when leaving the water, followed immediately by refreshments. Would highly recommend a sail on Nightwind...a real treat!

March 2010
We sailed on the Yacht Nightwind on March 5. We had a great deal of difficulty finding a sailing charter that would take more than 6 people. We booked with another vendor and they cancelled three days before our trip. I called Cathy & Rick and even though it was last minute they sailed over to St john and picked our group up. We had a fabulous experience and the lunch and service were extraordinary. Went to a couple of great snorkel spots and just spent the day hanging out on the boat. Do yourself a favor and save time when chartering. The Yacht had great space to spread a group out in, the price was right and Cathy and Rick great hosts.

February 2010
I am a travel agent and took clients on an inspection cruise of the new "Oasis of the Seas" for a future large group booking. I had made arrangements in advance to take them sailing on the "Nightwind" when we arrived in St. Thomas on 2/23/2010. Rick & Cathy O'Dell pulled off the highlight of the entire week with our snorkel/sail adventure on their yacht. Capt. Rick gave us a real taste of the true sailing experience as we unfurled sails and departed Sapphire Marina for the island of St. John. Perfect day and a perfect experience! A wonderful lunch and snacks/drinks were provided and all came away saying this was the best experience of our week!

February 2010
The Nightwind yacht was a beautiful and spacious boat at first glance. When I got on the boat, it became much more. The captain and his one man crew were very welcoming and entertaining. They both knew so much about all the Virgin Islands and they both knew how to take care of a group of people well. The sailing was smooth and the views and locations the yacht visited were breathtaking. The day sail included snorkeling, which was absolutely amazing. If one doesn't like snorkeling just lounging on the yacht, soaking up the sun is just as good. Both the captain and his first mate were very honest about the quality of things to do around the islands. They were also able to give us suggestions of places to eat and good spots around the Islands to visit.

February 2010
This day sail is for everyone of all ages. My friend and I are seniors in high school and we went with my parents, and we all enjoyed it. There was one other group on the boat, an elderly lady and her daughter who both enjoyed it just as much. That leads me to my last point, this day sail is not a huge group activity. There were six of us sailing not including the crew, which was perfect. If you are looking for a private/ semi- private trip, this is the perfect way to spend the day. I highly recommend this day sail on the most gorgeous boat to anyone.

February 2010
We highly recommend this experience.  Nightwind is a beautiful boat, we were only 8 people and we really enjoyed our sailing day and snorkeling in St John and Christmas Cove –Luisa

February 2010
We have sailed on the Yacht Nightwind for many years every time we get to the USVI. In fact, for the past several years, we have tried to go out at least twice during our two weeks. Each time is unique, because we don't head to the same destinations. Captain Rick, who now owns the boat, sails out toward St. John and, as far as the wind will take us until it's time to snorkel. We then find a quiet cove, snorkel, have a great lunch, and then head off for another site. Generally, the day is filled with sun, fun, sea, and wind. Open bar, great food, and a small contingent of people. The yacht is sanctioned for 18 passengers, but the total number rarely goes above 10. There is sufficient room to spread out, lounge in the sun or shade, and get to know your fellow travelers. We have seen other day sails leave Sapphire Marina or Red Hook loaded with 25-30 people, and I'm sure they have fun. But in the time we have been on St. Thomas (since 1980) we have spent most of the time on Nightwind. Dixie and I really enjoy the comfort of the yawl (two masts, the second behind the steering column) and, when under full sail, it can feel like you're racing along (six knots). For a wonderful, relaxing sail on the Caribbean, take the Nightwind. You won't regret it!

February 2010
The highlight of our trip to St. Thomas was a day sail aboard the Yacht Nightwind. Being sailors ourselves we were very impressed with the great condition of the wooden vessel. The information that Captain Rick and his mate shared with us about sailing and the local area and waters was very impressive. The sail over to St. John was fantastic followed by some great snorkeling following a big sea turtle around the bay. While we were snorkeling John had whipped up a great lunch which everyone enjoyed. Then we sailed to another great spot to snorkel. In both places we snorkeled we were the only people there. Once everyone was back onboard we all had some great desserts and Captain Rick’s wicked rum punch. The sail back to the marina was as great as the sail over to St. John. We can't wait to return.

February 2010
We really enjoyed the relaxing day on the boat with Rick and his first mate, both of them were very friendly and concerned with making the most of the trip for everyone on the boat. We had never been on a sailboat or gone snorkeling but Rick made sure that were knew what to do and what to expect. The food was good and the day in the water and sun well worth the money.

January 2010 - "Just a great experience"
Captain Rick and his 1st mate were friendly and courteous. 1st class people and a first class operation. From the breakfast to the homemade chocolate cake we had a wonderful time. Snorkeling and learning about the various islands while sailing in one of the coolest vessels afloat was an experience we will treasure.
Tom & Janet

January 2010
I enjoyed the experience on the Nightwind more than I can tell you. I recommend it to just about everyone we ran into in our hotel. When we return to St. Thomas the Nightwind will be on my list of things to do once again. Thank you for sharing what you love with us.
Cindi

January 2010
We truly enjoyed our day sailing with Rick and John. They made us feel so at home. Thanks again and we have forwarded your website to all our traveling buddies to look you up when in St. Thomas.
Gordon

January 2010
From the minute we stepped on board the Nightwind, we were treated like royalty by Captain Rick and his first mate. All the food we could eat: fresh fruit salad for breakfast , wonderful lunch, homemade dessert, and the rum punch was just right. Great snorkeling, beautiful scenery.
It's impossible to describe all the beautiful shades of blue and turquoise.
What more could you want? I cannot remember when I've seen my husband so relaxed - really relaxed. And that in itself was a big treat.
Next time we're back on St. Thomas, we'll definitely book another trip aboard the Nightwind. We're looking forward to it.
Warwick, NY

January 2010 - "Heavenly cruise - Deviled eggs and all"
We booked the whole boat for a day sail- 7 kids aged 1-9 and six adults. (Rick was actually heads up enough to move another couple to another day to avoid being overwhelmed). Ha and the mate were right on top of things with activities (help with the sails) making life easier (ferry in dingy to beaches), making observations (spotting rays and turtles) and generally keeping things fun. Catered lunch was solid. (His chicken is really good- his devilled eggs almost as good as mine). Would book again.
Miles

January 2010 - "Awesome"
A must do. Boat was beautiful and very well kept. Food was very good. Staff was kind courteous and very knowledgeable. Every time we go to St Thomas we will sail aboard the Nightwind. Limited number of passengers is the best part of the sail. You were not sharing space but made friends with all aboard.
Mish

January 2010 - "Best Sail/Snorkel Trip Ever"
If you are looking for a first rate sail and snorkel excursion, look no further than the Nightwind. Our family has taken many similar trips for the last 20+ years from Key West all the way down to Aruba and this is by far the best we ever took! Captain Rick and his first mate John were excellent sailors, tour guides, cooks and bartenders.
We sailed to Leinster Bay and Honeymoon Beach on St. John. Snorkeling was excellent despite overcast and windy conditions. Thank you again gentlemen!
Boston

December 2009 - "Great way to spend a day: sailing, snorkeling & sightseeing"
We took a one day sail on the Yacht Nightwind on our "2nd honeymoon" trip in December. It was, by far, the best day of our vacation. The captain & first mate make you feel welcome & at home right from the start. We are not regulars at sailing or snorkeling, so we found the whole experience to be quite fun! They provide an open bar on the sail, but we waited until after snorkeling to partake. The Captain's Rum Punch was the best. We took a one day sail on this same boat 25 years ago, on our first honeymoon, and I can see why they have been in business for 25 years; they give you a truly fun, beautiful, first rate day of sailing, snorkeling, eating & drinking!
South Brunswick, NJ

December 2009 - "A wonderful first time sailing experience"
My wife and I experienced our first sailing on the Yacht Nightwind when we visited St. Thomas in December 2009. We were joined by 4 other couples (Our friends). The Captain (Rick O'Dell) was very professional and explained the nuances of sailing to us in language we could understand. He brought us to St. John where we snorkeled and had a wonderful lunch. We returned to St. Thomas, stopping and snorkeling in a bay along the way back. It was a full day of very enjoyable new experiences! We would highly recommend the Yacht Nightwind to any novice sailors as well as experienced ones. It is an experience that we will remember for quite some time!
Paul

December 2009 - "The Best tour/ship/crew/snorkeling EVER"
I can't say enough good things about this tour. From the second you step on board you are offered fresh fruit, continental breakfast, and a totally open bar....mimosas, champagne w/cranberry juice etc. etc. I highly recommend their rum punch!! The rest of the time is spent sailing with people who love what they are doing and it shows. Two stops at fantastic sites for snorkeling - a fantastic lunch and always the open bar! These guys are seasoned sailors, well informed about the islands and very accommodating to all the guests on board. They will sail with as few as 2 people so you might get lucky and have the 57 foot all wood sailboat all to yourself.
Upstate NY

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