May 2024 BVI Charter
We absolutely loved the yacht Island Hoppin'! So spacious and comfortable. The Primary cabin was so comfortable with an overabundance of storage. There were also so many places to plug in your electronics. We felt so pampered. Patti would make all the beds while we were eating breakfast and turn down the beds and on the electric candles each evening (yes, I realize that is an amenity, but still nice!). The bathroom had a window to see out and was stocked with nice towels, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner on the wall of the shower, and had other items one might forget while traveling, in the medicine cabinet.
The toys on the boat were super fun! The kids all enjoyed learning, and mastering, the e-foil! There were 4 SUPs onboard along with many floats. When we boarded, Bryan & Patti had Yeti-type mugs (Bote) made up with our names on them. They were to go with all of the Bote-brand toys so that the very strong magnets on the bottom would connect to the magnets on the floats and SUPs. Super-efficient to not have our drinks/cocktails fall into the water!
Dive-master Bryan was very professional and fun while supervising our 2 kids on their open water dives to complete their PADI certification. Afterwards, my husband and other son, who were already PADI certified, all got to dive together. Bryan was attentive to all their safety yet provided an entertaining experience for all. The diving and snorkeling equipment were in great shape as well. The lifting platform (where the dingy is transported) was wonderful to have for the divers, too, making it a breeze for the divers to enter and exit the water.
Since I was the one to arrange the trip, I guess I was considered the "primary". I actually enjoyed that part especially since I am the mom of the group and know everyone there! A nice little perk! ;)
Bryan & Patti paid close attention to our preference sheet, including the food allergies. They had all the alcohol we preferred and also had plenty of food and protein to make our middle son happy and satiated. The food was all creative and delicious! Some of us even got recipes from Patti! The foods were all beautifully presented onto a beautifully decorated table which changed themes each night. The cocktails were delicious and creative. They also let my husband and son play with creating their own drinks, much to Patti's chagrin.
We loved having the Bluetooth speakers onboard to hook into and the wifi...ridiculous! They had Starlink. We all commented that Wifi was better than any of us had in our homes!
A nice little perk, which we did not use, was a projector in the galley that plays movies on the shades of the sliding glass doors. I would imagine it'd be great for stormy days (heaven forbid) or children.
We would highly recommend Bryan & Patti and also Island Hoppin' 55!! Both made this family vacation absolutely perfect!
-The Micho Family
April 2024 BVI Bahamas Charter
So there I was, floating in the beautiful blue/turquoise waters of the Bahamas. There were so many “pinch me” moments on Island Hoppin’, a stunningly beautiful and amazingly outfitted Lagoon 55 Catamaran.
The owners love to sail, pay attention to the little things, and want you to have an amazing time aboard their well appointed catamaran. From morning wake ups with amazing views out my window, to final wind down in a plush and comfy turned down bed complete with a chocolate mint waiting for me, and everything in between, this boat is amazing.
Chef Patti’s gorgeous and flavorful meals were a gift to both the eyes and the taste buds. Being gluten intolerant, I was extremely surprised that my every meal was just as thought out as the meal served to everyone else. Often, the meals looked identical, with mine made with gluten free substitutions where necessary. Chef Patti even made fresh bread, and gluten free muffins, and even provided gluten free snacks for me.
Captain Brian is a master of many things. He keeps the boat ship shape with a vast knowledge of the sea, boats and sailing. This is matched by his desire to see new areas and learn about them. His ability to maneuver the boat into a particularly tight slip was incredible to watch.
The relaxation quotient is high on Island Hoppin’. Enjoy a book or conversation on the deck, flybridge, or salon. Hang out in the water on a paddle board, floating dock, snorkeling or even SCUBA with Captain Brian as your Dive Master. Watching the sunset and seeing the stars at night never gets old for me.
I can’t think of a more relaxing place to be with friends or family, having new adventures and creating new memories!
Thank You Brian and Patti!
April 2024 Bahamas Charter
This is our third trip on Island Hoppin and the first on the brand new Island Hoppin'. Wow!!
What's new this time was we sailed in the Bahamas and we had a new crew. We always enjoy getting away and being in the sun and warm waters. This year, Island Hoppin is a new 55 ft Lagoon catamaran. Slightly bigger than the previous boat, it provides much more space in the salon and the rear dining area. Also the flybridge is larger and has a refrigerator for cold drinks up top as well as there being more storage space in the cabins.
The crew is outstanding. Based on previous trips, we had high expectations and they were easily met. Captain Bryan handled all the sailing and itinerary so the planning was super easy. Patti was our chef and deck hands when needed. She prepared delicious meals every day. Hot breakfasts, great lunches and awesome dinners. A wide variety throughout the week with new dishes every day.
The experience is outstanding. A new water lounge, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, kayaks and scuba are all available, plus a new efoil to surf the waters. Plenty to do, or just relax.
Cathy and John
April 2024 Bahamas Charter
This is my fourth cruise on Island Hoppin’ and my first on the new Lagoon 55. Also the first Bahamas cruise as well. I will say straight out, Island Hoppin’ does not disappoint!
From the beautifully appointed Lagoon 55 to the fabulous service and food that Captain Bryan and First Mate/Chef Patti provided, this charter has to be the best.
We sailed from Nassau to George Town, Exumas in early March, stopping almost every day in beautiful, Bahamas locations. We were able to utilize most of the updated and new water toys which included an e-foil, paddle boards and sea-scooters. Island Hoppin’ even has a new Bote water lounge to float behind the boat!
The crew, however, is what makes the trip a special time. From Bryan’s excellent navigation and safety skills to Patti’s wonderful meals (oh my, they were all so well done and beautiful to look at), this crew takes it to the next level. Always willing to make us comfortable in any way as well as have fun, too!
I especially enjoyed the meals Patti created. EVERY meal was delicious. Portions were perfect and the creativity was outstanding. She even prepared gluten-free items for my wife whenever it was needed and didn’t miss a beat on flavor and presentation. Marvelous chef!
Kudos to Bryan as well. His knowledge and suggestions for our adventure were spot-on and he took care of planning many of our excursions. Thoughtful and attentive captain.
To finish, I would tell you that if you are considering a Caribbean yacht cruise, do not hesitate to book Island Hoppin’. You will not be disappointed.Thats why we keep coming back!
Steve P
March 2024 Bahamas Charter
Our sailing experience aboard Island Hoppin' with Captain Bryan and First Mate/Chef Patti was nothing short of extraordinary! From the moment we stepped foot on the boat, we were captivated by its beauty and charm. The sleek design and pristine condition of the vessel set the tone for what would be an unforgettable journey.
The amenities on board were simply amazing. We were impressed by the attention to detail and the thoughtfulness put into every aspect of the boat. From luxurious seating areas especially on the fly bridge to state-of-the-art technology.
But what truly set this experience apart were the fun toys available for us to use. The e-foil, sea scooters, and paddle boards provided endless hours of entertainment, allowing us to explore the crystal-clear waters in a whole new way. It was exhilarating to glide effortlessly across the surface, taking in the stunning views from a unique perspective.
And let's not forget about the food – prepared with love and skill by Chef Patti. Each meal was a culinary masterpiece, bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. From fresh seafood to gourmet desserts, every dish was a delight.
But beyond the boat, the toys, and the food, what made this experience truly special was the warmth and hospitality of Captain Bryan and First Mate Patti. Their passion for sailing and dedication to ensuring our comfort and enjoyment were evident in everything they did. They went above and beyond to make sure our trip was perfect in every way.
In short, our sailing experience with Island Hoppin' was nothing short of magical. It was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that we will treasure forever. If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, look no further than Island Hoppin' with Captain Bryan and First Mate/Chef Patti. You won't be disappointed!"
Thank you again for an awesome trip!
Dani
March 2024 Bahamas Charter
I didn’t think Island Hoppin’ could get better after my first experience last year but this new boat and crew were impeccable. As soon as we approached the boat, Bryan and Patty were nothing but friendly, helpful and caring. The boat was so spacious with ample storage, comfortable rooms and plenty of places to lounge. Throughout the week, I was constantly amazed by all of the meals Patty was serving; she made fresh bread and pastries from scratch. The monkey bread for breakfast and the jambalaya for dinner were two of my favorites. As far as sailing around the Exumas, Bryan navigated us to beautiful places to anchor and play with the numerous water toys Island Hoppin’ has to offer: paddle boards, e-foil and Botē lounge chairs to name a few. I had a blast and the week flew by. I cannot thank Bryan and Patty enough for making this trip so fun and memorable, I hope to see them next year!!
-Nikki
