May 2024 BVI Charter
Sam and Zina were simply the best!!! We have vacationed many places but truly nothing compares to the friendship, care, expertise, food and love that we received from them. Zinas cooking was absolutely 5 star.!!! Sam was a guide, a friend, a bartender- a man of all trades!!! If you are even considering this wonderful trip - just do it!!! They are the best! We will return and won’t want one thing different!! Well.. except perhaps an extended stay. 💕💕💕💕
This boat is magnificent!!. It is so clear that the owner only chooses the best of everything. Sam and Zina lovingly care for the boat and for the passengers. The owner shared his wonderful wine. Everything was absolute perfection!!
- Stacey
April 2024 BVI Charter
Not enough stars to give to our crew. Sam and Zina were the BEST!
One of the best vacations we have had; enjoyed every minute.
Every meal planned by Zina was too good to miss; she took amazing care of us.
Sam kept us laughing and entertained, and his attention to details kept us feeling safe.
Hope to come back soon and will definitely look for Sam and Zina's charter.
- Kathy
Every aspect of this trip exceeded expectations! The Respite at Sea was beautiful and spacious - it was immaculately clean and organized at all times. The most amazing aspect of the trip was our hosts/captain/chef/first mate, Sam and Zina! They were both gracious, kind, knowledgeable, attentive, FUN hosts! They were both patient and accommodating with all our needs and requests – from things we wanted to do, places we wanted to go, what we wanted to drink, what we wanted to eat. They planned and executed everything and anything that we asked! The food Zina prepared was beautiful AND delicious - every meal was a special event! We LOVED everything about our experience, and we can’t wait to go on another adventure with Sam and Zina!
- Karen
A trip of a Lifetime and Sam and Zina made sure we were treated to a First Class Boat, First Class Captaincy and First Class Food. I would recommend Respite At Sea but only with Sam and Zina as Captain and Crew. We were allowed to sit back and relax while Sam and Zina did ALL the work and at the same time waited on us hand and foot. What a team.
- Billy
Sam and Zina were AMAZING! In addition to being great and fun people, they are wonderful at what they do. Zina is a great cook. The meals and presentation were always a highlight of the day. We knew we were always in good shape with Sam. He knew exactly what he was doing, And- he always had a smile on his face and had everything under control. Sam and Zina looked after the Respite at Sea meticulously! An incredible trip. I give Sam and Zina and Respite at Sea the highest recommendation possible!
March 2024 BVI Charter
We could not have asked for a better week or a better crew. The boat was very comfortable and Zina’s food was amazing! Captain Sam is not only a great captain but managed to keep two teenage boys highly entertained!
What an incredible family trip and I can’t thank you enough for being so wonderful with the boys. We will have memories to last a lifetime! Hope to see you two again. Perhaps a charter to St Martin and St Barts if we could sway you to leave the BVI’s.
Take care!
Suzy, KD, Frank & Sam
February 2024 BVI Charter
I had an amazing once-in-a-lifetime trip with Sam as captain and diving instructor, and Zina as chef extraordinaire. The food was absolutely amazing. Every meal blew me away in presentation, taste, and variety. Each day was filled with new and fun adventures. I never imagined I would learn to scuba, but Sam made the experience feel safe and doable. I’m excited to continue more diving in the future. I highly recommend Sam and Zina, your every need will be taken care of before you even know you need it.
-Becky
February 2024 BVI Charter
Our trip on Respite at Sea was literally the trip of a lifetime. Captain (and bartender) Sam and Chef Zina were phenomenal. They took such attentive and amazing care of us and the itinerary was everything we could have hoped for and more. Zina's food can’t be described….better than anything you could get at the restaurants. Still dreaming of her chicken curry. They went out of their way to make it unforgettable! Thank you!
-The Stimsons
February 2024 BVI Charter
My husband and I recently spent 5 nights on Respite at Sea with another couple. It was fabulous! Sam and Zina are wonderful and clearly take great pride in their careers! Zina's food was fantastic as were Sam's drinks! We were able to try scuba diving with Sam and absolutely loved it. We hope to be back with our kids in the future. Thank you for such a memorable adventure!!
Maggie & Aaoron
February 2024 BVI Charter
Sam & Zina were absolutely wonderful hosts! It was our first-time charting for a week and could not have picked a crew who fit us better. Sam is a focused and safe Captain who clearly knows his boat (and, how to make fantastic cocktails). Zina is an amazing Chef whose food combinations will blow your mind. Both Sam and Zina made us all feel at home right away, we were comfortable upon first setting our bare feet on their boat. There are many boats and many crews, but only one Sam and Zina...Champions!
The Myers
January 2024 BVI Charter
Can’t imagine a week in the BVIs being any better. The Respite at Sea was a perfect vessel for 3 couples to explore in. It’s a relatively new boat with all the “bells and whistles “. It has 3 nice bedrooms, each with bathrooms. The crew, Sam and Zina, are exceptionally accommodating and take care of every detail. Doesn’t hurt that Zina is also a world class chef. Most importantly, these two are great people who are lot of fun to be around for a week at sea!
January 2024 BVI Charter
Outstanding experience! Respite at Sea was ideal from the layout to the very comfortable seating areas and beds. The sailing was the highlight and very stable even in higher winds and some swells.
Sam and Zina deliver an amazing level of service and Sam brings good fun and humor all day long and Zina's cuisine was absolutely delicious. We highly recommend Respite at Sea and Sam/Zina.
-Rob and Chrissy
JAnuary 2024 BVI Charter
Sam and Zina made our first experience living on the water truly amazing. From Sea bobbing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, wake boarding and water skiing to exploring beautiful places and lively establishments. Sam kept us as busy as we wanted to be. He introduced his love of scuba diving to our son who now can’t wait to become certified this summer. Everything was top notch! Sam and Zina’s welcoming personalities and knowledge of sailing made us feel right at home from the second we stepped on board. Zina took the time to prepare delicious meals that we couldn’t get enough of. My husband is Pescatarian and she thoughtfully prepared all his meals including special vegan desserts just for him. Respite at Sea was the perfect home away from home with so many areas to spread out and enjoy family time. Having traveled extensively, this was one our most memorable vacations thus far. We’re looking forward to doing it again with Sam and Zina on Respite at Sea!
Sam and Zina Past Reviews
Our family of four took a seven day Christmas Grenadines islands cruise on the JimJams catamaran with Captain Sam and crew Zina. It was a truly wonderful experience!
While the boat is very luxurious and well appointed, the real treat is the service provided by Sam and Zina. First the food: prior to our cruise we were asked about our food and beverage preferences, which we provided by email. Every meal, breakfast, lunch and dinner, contained scrumptious, healthy variety, all personally prepared by Zina, with Sam’s assistance. Fresh fish, meats prepared on the outdoor grill, and the bread and pasta were always made from scratch. Interesting and delicious appetizers, specialty drinks, and combinations of food that we had never experienced before. We HAD to ask them for their interesting and delicious meatball recipe.
Next, the service: Sam and Zina brought a youthful exuberance and energy to the sometimes difficult and challenging tasks during the Christmas winds, that was fun and inspiring to watch. Our every request was greeted with a “can do”attitude, and our expectations were usually exceeded. Sam is quite an accomplished sailor, and Zina is the perfect crew. We must also mention that the boat was kept incredibly clean and fresh.
We cannot more highly recommend an excursion with Captain Sam and Zina. We greatly look forward to our next opportunity to sail with them.
-The Strumillos
We had the privilege of sailing with Sam and Zina in SVG and they were amazing. Zina sure can cook and we loved when Sam would yell “Captains Cocktails”. We ended up buying into the Trade Winds Club just because of them. If we could request Sam and Zina every sail we would!
-The Gallaghers
These two are an awesome couple and a fantastic crew. Our family had an amazing week, Zina is a sweetheart and great chef and Sam is an excellent captain with the perfect balance of confidence and chill.
-Donna
Amazing couple and even better crew. Totally in tune to our vacation and what we wanted. They’re passionate about serving the passengers and even more passionate about their jobs!!!
-Inna
July 2023 BVI Charter
Ross and Dee
thank you both so so much for making this charter one for the Smith family history books - Roman’s first sail, first snorkel, first sea scooter, first jelly fish sting. Julian and Lawsons first dives. Lawson’s first slalom and wakeboarding. Julian’s first water skiing. Mine and Debbie’s first sailing charter with all 3 of our boys. Everything was amazing, from the dives to the treasure hunt to every DEE-licious meal. You two are such special people who make an even better team. You will forever be in our memories, hearts and family love. Thank you a thousand times over and I hope we meet again whether on land or at sea.
-the Sevilla Family
June 2023 BVI Charter
Ross and Dee
what an amazing trip in the BVI. Our first charter and hopefully not our last! Amazing food, sights, activities, sailing. Best trip ever! No words really, but thank you!
Ross and Dee
thank you so much for everything. My 40th was made unforgettable and so appreciated. Thank you, thank you, thank you, you guys really are the best!
Ross and Dee you two are wonderful! We could not have asked for a better week on board. You made every meal, drink, experience absolutely perfect!
Ross and Dee,
we can’t thank you enough for your patience and caring in helping with our mobility and difficulties. We were quickly comfortable and able to explore - and celebrate in style. Our meals were spectacular and your company was fun and appreciated. Dee I am thankful to have pictures of your creations to “up my hospitality game” at the beach house. We would love for you to visit us.
Captain Ross and Chef Dee made this week a trip to remember! We can’t thank you both enough for all the warm hospitality and adventures! The food was absolutely delicious in every way. I was amazing getting to know you both and share lots of laughs. Wishing you all the best with your upcoming charters. Thank you again.
May 2023 BVI Charter
Ross and Dee - travel has always been about the people you meet along the way. So thankful to you both for being part of the journey. Memories for a lifetime and beyond, love you both.
Dee - coming back to the boat with your cooking and energy is like coming home. Your food is love. Thank you for the best banana desert of our lives.
Ross - the excitement with which you approach our adventuring on Respite reminds us to live in the moment.
Thank you both for curating experiences that allow us to experience pure joy and happiness. We are so thankful we get to be members of the repeat guests club. These are some of the happiest days of our lives! Can’t wait for future adventures.
-the Velemirovich Family
April 2023 BVI Charter
There are not enough accolades for Ross and Dee, the very BEST time! The stay on the boat was full of laughs, great food, adventures, kindness and overall good times. Dee and Ross are examples of the best people you could ever meet. Dee is the girl you want your son to bring home, Ross is the guy you want to have your daughter show up with!!!! All the best to both of you, thank you for a wonderful trip.
WOW! I have to admit I was a bit reluctant to take this trip. A boat for 7 days?!! Well, it was an amazing week. Ross and Dee were absolutely the best hosts ever! Beautiful food, awesome snorkeling, sailing, cocktails and so much more.
-the Ehrenbergers
Jan 2023 BVI Charter
Thank you for an epic week aboard Respite At Sea. Tom and Hannah were amazing and welcoming. Food was excellent and enjoyed all of the islands.
Wishing you the best in life!
-Adam and Gina
Amazing Time!
Thank you for all your hardwork making our trip perfect. Thank you Tom and Hannah. See you again!
-Ron and Tina
Tom and Hannah
Thank you for an amazing charter! It's our fourth time on charter and you rank the top.
-Ron and Jeann
March 2022 BVI Charter
This crew is top of their game. So fun. So professional. Dee’s cooking rivals any high end restaurant we’ve ever eaten in and she delivered that level every. single. meal! Truly amazing. Ross made amazing cocktails and took us to secluded anchorages we have never seen and we loved every one. We had great sailing and we felt comfortable, pampered, safe and happy every minute we were on board. We would sail with these two anytime, anywhere. Respite herself is a beautiful and very comfortable boat. Not one complaint.
-Lisa
February 2022 BVI Charter
Chef Dee and Captain Ross,
This was our first catamaran charter sail and it was wonderful! The snorkeling, swimming, and sailboat are all amazing! First rate and top notch! However, what stands out the most were the impeccable meals, stellar service, and non stop attention to detail from both of you!! I cannot imagine a finer duo anywhere on the seas. I cannot sing your praises loud enough or long enough. You're both so sweet, accommodating and perfectionists in every way. Thank you both so much for a magnificent time and memory. Your futures are bright as you're both amazing together. We love you guys!
-Daryl and Arnie
February 2022 BVI Charter
Dee and Ross,
We can't truly express the extent of our regard for the amazing our amazing vacation and more specifically for the two of you. We feel like you guys are part of our family. Your professionalism and expertise were astounding, only exceeded by your charm and warmth! Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. We can see how much pride you take in your enterprise here on Respite at Sea. I hope the owners realize how good they have it with you as their champions! We will seek you out when we seek another trip to your paradise. In Texas we bid adieu to those we are leaving with the phrase "Happy trails to you!" Til we see you again, we can "happy waves."
With great admiration and fondness
-Skip and Suzette
January 2022 BVI Charter
My wife and I along with two other couples just got off the boat after one of our best trips ever due to the incredible experience that Dee and Ross provided.
Being in the service business I greatly appreciate the attention to detail, planning and hospitality. What we all knew was going to be one of our best trips ever was far exceeded with this past weeks amazing experience.
You have two of the most unbelievable hosts attending to every detail all while making you feel so special throughout each day.
Dee’s menu and cooking was nothing less than 5 plus Stars on every meal! Each surpassing the next.
Both their passion for what they do so well and their attentiveness to their guests is unequaled. It might be your boat, but they act as if it is theirs.
I am sure you are aware but wanted you to know. I could go on and on about our trip of a lifetime all while knowing each of us having traveled throughout the world to amazing places and exceptional service.
They are the absolute best in every way, and we look forward to hopefully being able to experience their amazing hospitality again sometime soon.
December 2021 BVI Charter
The week on The Respite was absolutely PERFECT.
Let's talk about the crew, our new lifelong friends Ross and Dee... I am really struggling to find words to capture how great these two individuals are and how much we value the experience Ross and Dee provided us. Let me do my best...
The love and passion that Dee put into each meal resulted in some of the best food we have ever had anywhere much less from a confined galley. Each meal blew our minds and was better than any restaurant we dined at during the trip and frankly most of the top restaurants anywhere in the world. I realize this sounds fabricated, but "Dee-licious" as we called her, could not be more talented or passionate about ensuring the group had top notch meals and service. Simply out of this world and we have pictures of each dish to remind us of how good we had it during our week onboard. Thank you Dee, you spoiled us for the week and we are forever grateful! Having the boat decorated for Kristina's actual Bday was incredibly thoughtful and speaks to your character as genuine and caring....
Onto Captain Ross... There is something special about someone who has a deep pride in his craft which is exactly how I would describe Ross. He ensured we saw all the key spots the BVI has to offer and made our experience magical. Ross is meticulous in all he does to ensure the experience each day beats expectations. He is very knowledgeable of the area and some of our favorite memories are sitting on the fly bridge with a Carib in hand listening to the history of the area. The passion Ross has for the boat and ensuring it's upkeep makes you believe he is the owner! Each drink poured and each dish cleared was met with a smile and a "Pleasure" from Ross that we will never forget. We will forever remember our morning map sessions with Ross where he outlined where we had been the previous day and where we were headed that day. Thank you Ross, we cannot have imagined a better Captain and now friend.
I think in summary there are a few thoughts... I considered Ross and Dee part of our crew by day 2. Seriously... we enjoyed having them part of the group and it was a treat to have them join in on all we did throughout the week. We all agreed that when Ross gets the chops to ask for Dee's hand in marriage our group will be there wherever/whenever in the world it goes down! (Sorry buddy, I had to get that in there!). The final testament to how special of a week we had was the tears my wife shed during our goodbyes...
I did my best, but I still don't think I did justice to our experience... The only other item is the Respite itself which was perfectly appointed and provisioned. We did not want for anything and were completely comfortable in the spacious rooms!
-John
Thank you for taking such great care of our family.
Dee and Ross, Thank you for taking such great care of our family. This trip will forever more be remembered as our “favourite vacation” of all time. There wasn’t a detail missed and we noticed all of them. We can’t wait to see you again, this will not be our last. We appreciate you more than you know, Mr Greminger.
Dee and Ross,
The cure for anything is salt water.... OR a superb meal from chef Daniella OR a perfectly chartered cruise to the most beautiful bay by Captain Ross. Thank you for the trip of a lifetime. You are now friends and mates, until next time. Bon voyage, Mrs Greminger.
This experience exceeded very high expectations!
Dee and Ross,
My favourite moment was arriving on this gorgeous boat to such a warm welcome full of so much promise. Your hard work, attention to detail, easy laughter and clear knowledge were all very much appreciated. You won’t be rid of us so easily - we will be back. Thank you for a week full of incredible memories, new family games and a relaxed husband! With Gratitude, Mrs Miller.
To our new friends, Dee and Ross,
This experience exceeded very high expectations! Thank you for the celebrating my 50th with me and introducing sailing to my children. Your hard work and good cheer is exemplary, as is your patience, attention to detail and fine cuisine! I am so confident we will meet again soon, with immense gratitude, Mr Miller.
We loved every minute of our week from morning to night.
Dee & Ross, what an amazing week! Thank you so much for a great 50th birthday celebration - it was perfect. It was really hard to pick a “rose” and even think of a “thorn” for the week, everything was unforgettable. Captain Ross, thanks for finding all the wildlife, starting our Instagram careers and boating lessons. Dee, always with a beautiful, warm smile and delicious meals. If only we had a “defuse card” to stop the exploding kitten/end of the vacation. We loved every minute of our week from morning to night. We wish you all the best and hope to sail with you again some day!
Respite at Sea is a wonderful craft and we look forward to more equally splendid excursions aboard her.
Respite at Sea is a wonderful craft and we look forward to more equally splendid excursions aboard her. But only the crew could of Respite could actually overshadow the boat itself.
Captain Rosco and Dee were just simply the best hosts that we could have possibly imagined and Tyler as first mate – he typically being a captain himself, only made the situation even more incredible! Rosco made us all feel at ease immediately with his affable nature but we knew when it came to on-board safety and sailing particulars he was serious and in total control and there would be nothing for us to concern. At the same time Dee was just nothing but wonderful in spirit and magnificent at preparing the trip’s meals! Meals, snacks, drinks, coffee, teas – everything was phenomenal! And Tyler was just an all-around everything whether assisting in sailing, food preparation, handling bags and gear, diving – he was right on point and a pleasure to be around. The entire trip was there immediately if we needed them and seemingly invisible if we didn’t.
Wherever and whenever we sail in the future we will hope that this crew is available on Respite at Sea!
We had an amazing vacation!
We had an amazing vacation!
Dee and Ross could not have done one more thing for us to make it any more amazing. It was simply perfect! We all feel as though we made friends for a lifetime. They are fabulous and we loved them.
The boat is beautiful and spacious. Clean as can be. You could eat off the floors and you can tell they put so much effort into taking care of it.
The food was incredible. Dee made Gourmet meals every minute. JP (my 18 year old) actually tried new things every day and ate everything. He usually eats like a 10 year old!
Ross made delicious new cocktails every night like you get at a trendy bar.
We spent 99% of our time on the boat. We went to lovango. It was fine. We had a nice day and it was pretty, but I’m not sure it was worth the price to go and I dont think I would go back. Especially when you love the boat and crew as much as we did, you just want to spend every minute on the boat. We also went to lime out. The floating taco place. That was great. We all loved it. And the final place we went was dinghys. Fun cool beach bar. I guess they are trying to compete with soggy dollar type of bar. That was fun too. We just went for a short time for drinks.
They catered to us on every level, From meals, drinks, appetizers, water sports,(water skiing, seabobs wakeboarding, snorkeling), not to mention relaxing... my kids loved them as well. We didn’t sit still much...we actually cried when we said goodbye to our new friends. For us...the boat is important...but, the crew makes the trip. They certainly did not disappoint. We had a blast on every level.
Susan
My name is Jennifer Blotti and I live with my family in Switzerland. I enjoy traveling a lot and I work as a family travel blogger since many years. After several sailing vacation experiences, in August 2019 we were lucky to meet Daniella and Ross who took us on a catamaran to the Cyclades Islands in Greece. We did not hesitate to contact them again this year for our trip to Croatia because they are able to give us wonderful vacations. Daniella is not only an excellent cook, she is extremely careful to make everything perfect. Her skills in the kitchen are incredible, she can transform everything into excellent dishes, from presentation to the variety of what she offers. She is very attentive to the preferences and needs of the customer. She has delighted us with always different dishes, she has managed to enhance the local raw materials, she has always satisfied our requests.
In addition, she always knows how to involve children (our 10 year old twins) in fun activities. It's nice to see her always with a smile. We have always felt very safe in skipper Ross' hands, even in the most difficult weather situations. Ross is very precise, responsible and skilful in finding solutions to every problem in order to make the customer feel at ease and will not let you miss anything. The unique places he has made us discover have been chosen with care, he informs about everything and these are the best qualities that a skipper can have. Ross has always organised fun activities for us, so as to involve the whole family. Ross is also a sunny person who always welcomed us with a smile. Last but not least, he knows how to prepare excellent cocktails! I believe that Daniella and Ross are a winning couple, of the highest level, able to turn your holiday into a dream. And we hope to spend our holidays with them next year too.
We have just returned from our wonderful sailing holiday through the Cyclades Islands in Greece with our Family. Our holidays were unforgettable also thanks to the fact that the crew on board was exceptional. For this reason we would like to inform you that both the hostess Daniella Cox and the captain Ross Matthews, both assigned by your agency, have worked with extreme professionalism and enthusiasm, taking care to fulfill all our requests. Daniella has a particular talent for cooking, her dishes have proved beyond our expectations, always presented and served with care and love. Ross has always been careful not only to drive the boat but to make children participate and active, always demonstrating excellent professionalism and availability. Thank you very much.
I wished I could put 11/10 for these two. Dee and Ross went beyond expectations. Dee always had a beautiful smile on her face and cooked amazing food. She was always paying attention to details and was really caring with us. Rosco did a fantastic job at making sure we were always comfortable and informed on what was going on. From the moment we stepped foot on the yacht he made us feel comfortable and at ease. He has a super friendly and relaxed manner and really made the week for us.
I’ve had the pleasure of having some outstanding Captains and First Mates in the past, but Ross and Dee completely step changed any experience we ever had. Ross was phenomenal, from being an excellent, hospitable host to his ability to park his yacht in the smallest of spaces! He was a fantastic captain, always in control and always had a smile on his face. Nothing was too much trouble and Ross would jump at the opportunity to please the guests! Dee impressed us all, her breakfast spreads were outstanding, her lunches even more impressive and her dinners absolutely delicious. I have no idea how she made such elaborate feasts and so many items (all perfectly hot) in such a small kitchen. Her skill is truly impressive! Dee also ensured that each person’s tastes were met, tailoring our portions to our personal preferences. She also kept the yacht communal areas immaculate and provided great advice for each of the ports. These two did an outstanding job and we will be requesting them again next year without a doubt.
July 2020
What a week, these two make an incredible team and I can’t thank them enough. Let’s start with Dee. She is an adorable bundle of energy with an uncanny ability to make her whole crew feel better about themselves just by bouncing around the yacht. A “Michelin-starred chef” projected to have more insta followers than Kylie Jenner by 2021, this girl could whip a King's banquet using only a billycan and a bunsen burner. I am already so jealous of her future children's lunch boxes. Now Rosco, what an absolute 11/10 legend- great banter, made everyone feel at ease on the boat very quickly, ensured everyone had a turn at helping out- whether it was tying fenders or lowering the anchor, whilst making everyone feel at ease doing so. Super chill guy with positive energy over absolutely everything. Would recommend Rosco and Dee to friends for any future trips and would 100% request them on any future trips of mine.
June 2020
Rosco the salty sea dog was an absolute legend! Great wind awareness and sailing skills, he took the time to teach us a lot throughout the week. We had so much fun with him and Dee, both always smiling with an amazing ability to make you all feel like one big family. They make an awesome couple and a great team on the boat. Daniella went over and above with her hosting and made an incredible variety of fresh and delicious food - I was very impressed by the quality and variety and felt very lucky to have our own chef onboard, could not recommend them both enough.
