Latest news with #TurksAndCaicos
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
You're still the one: How vow renewal ceremonies celebrate enduring love
In sickness and in health: This promise, part of the traditional wedding vows, carries a weight not always easily upheld. But for Kristy Durso, 46, and husband Ryan, 45, the pair continues to honor their marital pact, even after her life-altering health diagnosis. The couple met in Monterrey, Calif., 25 years ago, when they were both in the military, on active duty. 'We met in February and by May I knew I wanted to marry him,' said Kristy. 'He proposed that September.' They set the date in February 2000, but five days before the wedding, Kristy had to be discharged from the military for health reasons. Though it took a decade, she was ultimately diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare, progressive, degenerative neuropathy disorder, among other serious debilitating conditions. By then, the couple had two children and later adopted a third with his own health challenges. As a wheelchair user and travel agency owner, Kristy was inspired to specialize in planning trips for families with disabilities. She learned that Beaches Resorts, which operates in the Caribbean, is a leading hospitality company for the autism and special needs communities. 'I approached their weddings team and encouraged them to showcase what's possible at their resorts,' said Kristy. 'They loved the idea, so we planned to renew our wedding vows at their Turks & Caicos property.' For the event last February, 'Their team helped me bring a vision to life. People automatically assume when you've got a disability, the experience will be less. But it doesn't have to be. I wanted everything to be just as detailed, intimate and beautiful as if I were a bride who could walk.' To this end, 'The company built a lovely, white wooden ramp for me to have access to the beach,' said Kristy. 'They put a platform in the sand for me, so I could dance our first dance using my wheelchair, manually. I didn't want to be pushed — you lose your autonomy. If it's Ryan pushing me, he's no longer my partner, he's my caregiver, which isn't what I wanted to portray.' With media attention, Ryan admittedly wasn't initially comfortable with the event idea. However, 'I changed my mindset,' he said. 'From when we first married, we're still dedicated to each other, though everything else has changed.' For Kristy, 'When I was in the hospital getting a pacemaker, I told Ryan I'd live to age 40, but wasn't sure I'd get there. We've found ourselves beyond that. I wanted to go up there and say, I still promise to keep fighting and changing what I can with you by my side, until the day I die,' she said. Currently, there is a significant uptick in wedding redo and vow renewal bookings, said Marsha-Ann Donaldson, director of weddings and romance for Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts. The company's Re-tie the Knot package starts at $400 and includes a bridal bouquet, boutonniere, cocktail party and cake for up to 10 people. 'Some folks have illness and come through on the other side wanting to recommit their lives to one another,' said Donaldson. 'Others never had a formal wedding. They may have done the legal side, but not the wedding of their dreams. Some marriages have gone through whatever it takes to make their marriage work and want to commit to the covenant they share. For them, a vow renewal is a restart. There are also couples who've been together a while, and want their kids, now of age, to witness and participate in their recommitting of vows, perhaps for a double-digit anniversary.' Case in point, James McGraw, 69, and wife Barbara McGraw, 68, from Vinemont, Ala., commemorated their 50th wedding anniversary this May with a vow renewal ceremony aboard a seven-day Alaskan cruise on Holland America cruise line. Their ship's captain conducted the ceremony. With grandchildren and great-grandchildren, 'What better way to start the next 50 years but with a vow renewal?' said James. 'We always wanted to go to Alaska, so I decided to put a trip together and surprise her.' If a second chance wedding or redo is your goal, you're on trend, according to hospitality experts. 'In recent years, we've seen a rise in vow renewals and re-weddings,' said Tiffany Dusenberry, director of food & beverage at Kukuiula in Kaua'i, Hawaii, a residential resort community. 'In 2023, we hosted a memorable vow renewal for a bride who never had the chance to wear a white dress the first time, with an intimate ceremony beneath our iconic farm tree followed by an elegant picnic with loved ones,' said Dusenberry. For New Yorkers interested in a love reaffirmation close to home, consider Lincoln Center's Alice Tully Hall. The annual Wedding: New York's Biggest Day took place June 21 this year. The free event, which requires online registration, is the perfect opportunity to renew vows, since the ceremony is not legally binding as a marriage. It features live musical performances from special guests and a joyous party, according to the news release. The annual event began during COVID-19, for couples whose weddings were derailed or scaled back due to the pandemic, said Shanta Thake, Ehrenkranz chief artistic officer at the Lincoln Center. 'Faith leaders will be coming to talk about what love and commitment means,' she said. 'We provide flowers for flower crowns, and people share vows. There are cookies and champagne, and there are always hundreds of couples. It's a celebration of couplehood.'
Forbes
20-06-2025
- Forbes
New Oceanfront Dining Concept Embodies Turks & Caicos As Hot Dining Destination
Turks and Caicos is a trendy spot to enjoy gorgeous blue waters and incredible beaches. But aside from appreciating the marine life and natural beauty, this island has increasingly become a hot culinary destination. Wymara Resort + Villas has long been one of the most popular destinations in Turks and Caicos, with an award-winning dining program to match – but with their newly introduced Land + Sea oceanfront restaurant concept within the intimate Wymara Villas + Beach Club, they have kicked things up a notch. Chef Andrew Mirosch, Director of Culinary and Executive Chef, of Wymara Resort + Villas. The resort's two previously existing restaurants, Blue Water Bistro and Indigo, both currently top Tripadvisor's list of Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Turks and Caicos, so this new spot had some big shoes to fill. 'At Wymara, we've always believed that food is one of the most powerful ways to connect people to a place and its culture," said Chef Andrew Mirosch, Director of Culinary and Executive Chef of Wymara Resort + Villas in an email interview. "While our main resort on Grace Bay is already home to two of the island's top-rated restaurants (Indigo and Blue Water Bistro), we felt there was still something special to be created at our Wymara Villas + Beach Club location," said Mirosch, who saw Land + Sea as an opportunity to bring that philosophy to life in a setting unlike any other, right along the water's edge at Sunset Cove Beach. Mirosch wanted to bring the spirit of the villas to life through food, atmosphere, and an authentic connection to the sea. "The vision was to create a dining destination that feels as rooted in its surroundings as the ingredients we serve. It's inspired by this breathtaking location and shaped by our passion for fresh, responsibly sourced cuisine, showcasing everything from pristine, line-caught seafood and island-grown produce to premium cuts from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond," said Mirosch. Every element of the Land + Sea experience, from the open-air design to the plate presentation, is designed to reflect the natural beauty and rhythm of island life. "We've created a place where guests can truly slow down and engage all of their senses. Whether it's a long, leisurely lunch overlooking the water or an alfresco dinner under the stars, we want every moment to feel transportive," said Mirosch. "Land + Sea isn't just a restaurant; it's the culmination of everything we love about Turks & Caicos: bold flavors, extraordinary ingredients, warm island hospitality, and a setting that invites you to pause, savor, and stay awhile," said Mirosch. Land + Sea at Wymara Resort + Villas Land + Sea is the only standalone restaurant at Wymara Villas + Beach Club, which is located just seven minutes drive from the main Wymara Resort on Grace Bay. "It was designed as a destination in its own right, anchored by the beauty of Sunset Cove Beach and the distinctive personality of the villas," said Mirosch. The menu at Land + Sea offers dishes not found at the other Wymara dining concepts. "To start, we welcome guests with a complimentary bite: housemade pork belly maple-chipotle sausage served with our house chili sauce, alongside freshly baked bread with chilled smoked brisket butter, beef jus, and hummus. It's unexpected, indulgent, and sets the tone for what's to come," said Mirosch, who has also introduced expanded raw bar offerings, including seafood towers and spins on traditional oysters, and completely new cocktail and zero-proof offerings specific to this concept.' "We blend the vibrant flavors of the Turks and Caicos Islands with techniques and ingredients inspired by my Australian roots," said Mirosch, who is a strong advocate for working with local farmers and fishermen. "We prioritize regionally grown produce and line-caught, net-free seafood to ensure every dish reflects our dedication to sustainability and the freshest seasonal ingredients. All of our fish is fresh, never frozen, and our steaks are aged in-house for 5 to 12 weeks to deliver the best possible flavor," said Mirosch. Premium beef from Australia and New Zealand is a hallmark of the menu. What makes dining at Wymara so special is the variety, according to Mirosch, as well as attention to detail and overall sense of place. "Guests can enjoy something completely different at each restaurant without ever getting bored," said Mirosch, who promised though for fans of the resort's other dining concepts, they carry over certain guest favorites with a new twist. For example: "If you enjoy Indigo's housemade, hormone-free Steamed Chicken and Scallion Dumplings with sesame chili plum sauce, you'll want to try Land + Sea's version, made with ginger and served with a Vietnamese nuoc cham dipping sauce. You'll also find a version of our White Seafood Chowder at both restaurants, each with its own personality.' The hot and cold seafood tower at Land + Sea. Some signature dish highlights at Land + Sea include the Hot & Cold Seafood Tower, which includes oysters, steamed blue crabs, snow crab claws, steamed ship, tuna ceviche, fried grouper and coconut tiger prawns, as well as panko-crusted calamari, mussels in white wine and garlic (served with Chef Andrew's own cocktail & tartare sauce, and seasonal fruits.). Other signature dishes include the Char-Grilled Blackened Grouper with shrimp and pineapple fried rice, grilled asparagus, and lemon caper butter and the 14 oz 'Ocean' New Zealand Black Angus New York Cut Striploin marinated in pineapple juice, soy, garlic and ginger (featuring an ultra premium cut of Black Angus beef grown on marine grasses in southern island of New Zealand – not too shabby for a relaxing dinner on the beach!).
Daily Mail
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Man fights back tears after partner shares passionate kiss with stranger - before brazenly revealing plans to sleep with him
A man on Too Hot Too Handle: Spain fought back tears after his partner shared a passionate kiss with a stranger - before revealing her plans to sleep with him. The reality dating show, available on Netflix, is a spin-off from the British original, which launched in 2020. It sees ten chronic singletons head to a house on the Turks and Caicos Islands for four weeks, forbidden from kissing, sexual contact or masturbation. Money is taken out of the $100,000 eventual cash prize pot any time a rule is broken. The Spanish-language edition only launched on the streamer last week - but it has already been full of drama, steamy moments and fiery arguments. One particularly intense moment saw a male contestant on the verge of a breakdown after his partner told him her attention had strayed to someone else in the house. Fitness model Enri Sánchez and influencer Saray Marín coupled up near the start of the series and found they got on well, risking it all a couple of times to steal a kiss or cuddle. But when new man Cristhian joins the show, he chooses Saray to go on a date with him - where they share a passionate kiss. She soon approaches Enri for a chat about how her feelings have changed after it. As Saray walks over to the group he is sat with, the other contestants say warily, 'She's coming', before she asks him: 'Can we talk?' One of the lads encourages him, 'Chin up', before Enri says in his confessional: 'I want to talk to her and have her tell me everything.' When the pair sit down on a sofa, Enri says, 'My heart's beating so fast', to which Saray replies gently: 'Calm down, relax.' He looks visibly nervous, unable to meet her eyes and with closed off body language, as she opens: 'Right, this is hard, huh?' She puts a tentative hand on his arm as he replies, 'Just be truthful, be honest with me', which she agrees she is going to do. In a brutal confession, which leaves Enri shocked, Saray explains: 'We spent the whole day together. I was laughing the whole time. We had an amazing time. 'He kissed me. And I kissed him.' Enri asks if she likes Cristhian and she says she does, before he responds uncertainly: 'I don't know. It's not like you cheated because we don't have that kind of thing.' She replies firmly, 'That's right, we don't', as he continues: 'But this is complicated. I feel really betrayed, to be honest.' Saray is taken aback by this, going from stroking his arm to comfort him, to saying incredulously: 'Seriously?' In a confessional shot, Enri admits: 'I feel like a complete loser. I've been talking her up all afternoon and now I find this out.' As the camera flips back to their conversation, Saray confesses: 'I can understand that you feel bad - but not betrayed.' To put the shoe on the other foot, he asks: 'If it was me on the date, do you think I would have done anything?' She admits she thinks he would have - a characterisation of him he objects to: 'Right, if you think I'm like that...' Enri then asks her bluntly if she is dumping him to date Cristhian instead - to which Saray replies she would like to get to know the new boy. In her own confessional, single-minded Saray says: 'That's what I want, so that's what I'll do.' Meanwhile, Enri still struggles to understand her thinking in the moment: 'I understand that this guy went all in but honestly, I wanted you to have fun but not for you guys to kiss.' Saray replies: 'I swear, I really thought you wouldn't care.' He fires back: 'Listen, I swear, I've been having feelings for you. You're my support system here.' She asks him if he is serious, admitting in her confessional: 'I think he's saying things that, considering the short time we've been here, are a bit much. 'And he tells me that he feels very comfortable with me and that he's really into me. But overall, I've noticed that his actions don't reflect his feelings at all.' She then makes her real bombshell admission about Cristhian to Enri: 'There's something else. We decided that we want to share a bed tonight' Saray explains her position to him: 'The problem is I don't really know what you're like, you know? I see some things in you that don't add up. 'And there are times when I don't really get you.' She then makes her real bombshell admission about Cristhian to Enri: 'There's something else. We decided that we want to share a bed tonight.' This is too much for Enri, who explains in a confessional: 'Look, right now, I want to leave. 'If Saray ends up sharing a bed with Cristhian, I don't think we can fix this.' In the moment, he says: 'I don't feel like crying but I feel weird.' But it seems some tears do soon start to fall, as he wipes his eyes and turns away from Saray, who looks sombre to say the least. It comes after some sexually charged moments on another reality dating show saw viewers draw comparisons to the famously racy Too Hot To Handle. The current series of Love Island UK (pictured), which started on June 9, has been one of the most dramatic series of the ITV2 programme in recent memory The current series of Love Island UK, which started on June 9, has been one of the most dramatic series of the ITV2 programme in recent memory. And a recent toe-curling chat between Islanders Dejon, Toni and Yasmin left fans cringing, as talk in the villa once again turned to a threesome. While the show is known for its steamy moments, this exchange proved too much for some fans, who admitted they were 'uncomfortable' about the chat. Despite the fact that Dejon's partner Meg Moore had already been left upset by Yasmin and Toni's previous threesome chat, the conversation returned to the topic in Wednesday's episode. Toni made a jaw-dropping confession about enjoying a threesome with a 'p**n star and an NFL player'. It led Dejon to say: 'You know what really gets me going? It's simple but kissing, that really gets me going. 'I love talking, you know when someone's talking dirty to me, I love that.' Yasmin admitted: 'It comes out in the heat of the moment. You're in the right place my friend, this is a safe space!', leading Dejon to declare he 'just loved sex'. She cheekily added: 'You are good-looking! We were already in your head honey!' - before Dejon admitted he needed to leave the conversation. It left some fans feeling weird, writing comments on social media including: 'This conversation between Toni, Yasmin and Dejon is making me extremely uncomfortable;' 'Yasmin, Toni and Dejon are unreal. I can't believe my ears;' 'Omg I can't do this Dejon x Toni x Tasmin convo. How did I used to watch Love Island season two/three with a straight face at like the age of ten?;' 'Toni and Yasmin are on the wrong show. They need to go on Temptation Island or Too Hot To Handle.' Threesome chats had already annoyed Meg the previous day - so she was visibly furious when she learned from Dejon that Toni and Yasmin had once again broached the topic. While Toni was quick to state there was no real chance of them having a 'f*****g threesome', Meg hit back: 'It's just a respect thing.' Toni noted the issue was something Meg needed to discuss with Dejon - but she was quick to end the chat. Yasmin noted Dejon 'hadn't done anything wrong,' and insisted he had been 'so open and so honest' during their exchange.
Daily Mail
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Why today's young stars are all borrowing supermodel Claudia Schiffer's iconic 90s style
, Elsa Hosk, and Dua Lipa are among the A-listers who have drawn style inspiration from a true Nineties catwalk icon. From blinging bikinis to retro Versace prints and sheer dresses with giant corsage hairpieces, as well as vintage Chanel, it's fair to say these looks have stood the test of time. But rather than be annoyed that her looks are being emulated, supermodel Claudia Schiffer is delighted that her fashion choices are providing such inspiration - and they have proven to be a rousing success. But who wore it best? Kylie Jenner Kylie Jenner showed off her incredible figure in the same glamorous bikini Claudia Schiffer wore more than 30 years ago. The 27-year-old paid nearly $14,000 for the gem-encrusted two piece from Chanel which the now-54-year-old modeled in 1995. Captioning her Instagram post, 'No place i'd rather beeee', Kylie showed off her jaw-dropping physique while vacationing in Turks and Caicos. In an Instagram post of her own on Wednesday, Claudia revealed that she had first wowed in that very bikini for luxury brand Chanel all the way back in the mid-90s. Sharing snaps of both her younger self and Kylie sporting the look, the 54-year-old model wrote: '@KylieJenner sparkling in this stunning bikini I wore on the @Chanel Official spring '95 runway.' Kylie is far from the first of the famous Jenner/Kardashian family to lift a look from Claudia's impressive back catalog - the German has previously singled out Kylie's older sister Kim for the way she interpreted one of her looks. Elsa Hosk Fellow model Elsa Hosk paid homage to Claudia at this year's Cannes Film Festival. The Swedish model, 36, arrived on the red carpet in a black bodycon gown by Mugler, which Claudia wore in 1995. Just like Claudia did in the nineties, Elsa teamed the glamorous look with pearl necklaces and flower clips in her hair. Even Claudia was impressed by Elsa's recreation of her look as she took to Instagram to praise the 'beautiful' model. Claudia wrote: 'The archival looks at @festivaldecannes just keep coming! The beautiful @hoskelsa wearing a @muglerofficial gown I wore on the Fall/Winter 1995 runway.' Elsa wrote in the comments: 'You're always the inspiration. Icon forever.' Ariana Greenblatt Also channeling Claudia during Cannes Film Festival in May was Ariana Greenblatt. The 17-year-old wore an archival Karl Lagerfeld–era Chanel corset that Claudia debuted in 1993. The chic look - which is exactly 15 years older than Ariana - paid homage to Claudia. Impressed by her ensemble, Claudia wrote on Instagram: 'Love seeing this look have a second life! @Ariana_Greenblatt looking fabulous in the corset I wore on the @ChanelOfficial Spring '93 runway' Sabrina Carpenter and Anne Hathaway Anne Hathaway looked captivating in a green Versace gown in 2023 that Claudia debuted on the runway during Milan Fashion Week just days earlier -with matching silver accessories. The actress completed the look with a pair of chrome pointed-toe heels with bows. While the dress wasn't one of Claudia's archival looks from the nineties, it certainly went down a hit with Anne and Sabrina Carpenter after they both copied the look. Sabrina rocked Claudia's Versace look with an added twist as she took to the stage during her tour in 2024. The pop star opted to turn the dress into a mini version for her performance. Claudia shared a photo of the singer on her Instagram Stories and wrote: 'Love to see this dress living so many lives! '@SabrinaCarpenter you wear it well.' Dua Lipa White hot: Dua Lipa arrived at the 2023 Met Gala in Claudia's vintage Chanel gown paired with a 225-carat diamond necklace Dua Lipa radiated the energy of a princess as she wore a vintage Chanel gown, previously modeled by Claudia, to the 2023 Met Gala. The 27-year-old was stunning in Chanel FW92 Couture, styled by Lorenzo Posocco - originally worn by Claudia in 1992. The singer's stunning tweed ballgown - designed by Karl Lagerfeld himself - was embellished with black and white detailing, and completed with tassels at the bottom. The tight bodice and puffed-out skirt emphasized her tiny waist and added to the elegant look. Claudia wrote on Instagram: 'I always love seeing these special looks live a second life @dualipa @chanelofficial.'
Forbes
15-06-2025
- Forbes
Wellness Meets Adventure: 4 Luxe Ocean Escapes With Year-Round Watersports
Grace Bay Snorkel Sails in Turks & Caicos take guests straight to the barrier reef for underwater exploration. Caicos Luxury Charters When it comes to restorative travel, some seek a meditative escape to a quiet yoga retreat, complete with sound baths and saunas. Others, meanwhile, crave a little more pampering, specifically, at a globally-renowned spa destination, with full access to cutting-edge treatments. But some wanderlusters believe the ultimate wellness retreat centers on watersports. The health benefits of practicing watersports are endless. Kayaking and snorkeling can enhance cardiovascular health, while paddleboarding and water biking help improve balance and coordination. Booking a resort with on-site watersports, kayaking and catamarans ensures a vacation filled with cardio-friendly sea activities. Grace Bay Club Boating and sailing activities offer a literal breath of fresh air and immerse you in nature—providing numerous upgrades to mental health. All in all, simply being surrounded by calm, crystal-clear waters can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Thankfully, beach hotels and resorts around the world are offering on-site watersports as amenities and access to curated sea excursions as add-on packages. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the vibrant shores of Florida and Hawaii, these destinations offer sun, sea, and adventure all year-round. The best part? These very activities bring a dose of holistic health to your luxurious getaway. The luxury fleet at Turks & Caicos gives guests access to island excursions, like a nature walk around Iguana Island. Caicos Luxury Charters Turks and Caicos is a haven for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration—and many resorts are aiming to distinguish themselves from other Caribbean hotspots by teaming up with companies that deliver seamless and ultra-luxurious experiences. Caicos Luxury Charters, for example, has redefined what luxury on the water looks like in the region. Its newest vessel, Princess Grace, is a 65-foot custom-built catamaran offering elevated experiences such as private snorkel sails, three-course sunset dinners, an on-board photographer, and day charters. Outfitted with teak decks, indoor-outdoor seating, and a full-service bar, the crew prepares top-notch cuisine to enjoy on board throughout the day. 'Princess Grace was designed to offer travelers both—a luxury experience on the water, and the chance to see Turks & Caicos the way locals do,' says Jason Campbell SVP of Corporate Business and Development of Red Hospitality and Leisure, a luxury watersports operator. The top experience to book on the Princess Grace? The Deluxe Half-Day Snorkel, which gives passengers the opportunity to explore the Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef. Feeling the need for speed? Caicos Luxury Charters also operates high-performance Axopar 37' Suntop powerboats, full-day sails to North Caicos, and private jet ski tours that explore hidden coves and secluded sandbars. The brand's custom excursions include a private jet ski excursion that showcases the island far beyond the typical resort view. From recreation to relaxation, the villas at Rock House have private terraces complete with infinity pools and stunning views of the north shore. Rock House Where to Stay: Where to Dine: As for dining highlights around the islands, check out Coco Bistro where you can dine under the palm trees, Bay Bistro to savor the best and freshest seafood, and Omar's Beach Hut for local and authentic flavors. Cruz Bay offers Turtle & Tapas tours, where travelers can snorkel natural turtle habitats. Cruz Bay Watersports St. Thomas balances relaxed island energy and refined coastal luxury, making it a standout destination for travelers exploring the region by sea. At the heart of the experience is Cruz Bay Watersports, which partners with top resorts to offer high-end catamaran and powerboat excursions. The fleet includes sleek luxury catamarans like the Flying Frenchman and Lady Lynsey II—ideal for champagne sunset sails and multi-island day trips—as well as high-performance Axopar powerboats for those seeking a faster, more private itinerary. Whether it's a leisurely cruise with a three-course dinner or a full-day island-hop with snorkeling stops, each outing is designed to feel personal, not prepackaged. With quick hops to St. John, Tortola, and Jost Van Dyke, guests can visit multiple islands in a single day. For those looking to venture farther, Cruz Bay's private itineraries stretch deep into the BVI, blending gourmet dining, reef diving, and quiet anchorages into one seamless luxurious adventure. Be sure to Discover the Baths of Virgin Gorda, BVI, which is an unforgettable full-day (8-hour) adventure to the Baths at Virgin Gorda begins with an array of delectable morning pastries, followed by a day-long adventure hiking and exploring through boulders at the Baths, relaxing in turquoise blue waters, and snorkeling the caves of Norman Island. Guests snorkel through the caves known to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's classic Treasure Island. Waterfront sports amenities at the Buoy House St Thomas. Buoy House St Thomas Where To Stay: Where to Dine: Between all the adventures, the Flying Frenchman and Axopar actually make stops at dining hotspots like Lime Out floating taco bar in USVI, Pizza Pi (but bring cash) in USVI, and the famous Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke, BVI. Other dining highlights include Isla Blue, a tropical dining oasis offering refined Caribbean cuisine, and the Salt Shack, a beachside eatery serving locally-inspired bites. Explore the Alii Nui Maui signature experiences and private charters, designed for couples, friends and families. Alii Nui Maui blends dramatic coastlines, crystal waters, and the warmth of the Aloha Spirit into one of the most memorable sailing destinations in the Pacific. Ali'i Nui Sailing Charters has long been a favorite among travelers for its marine experiences—and in 2024, it introduced its newest catamaran, the custom-built Ali'i Kai. From guided snorkel trips to the protected waters of Molokini Crater (where you can swim near Hawaiian Honu turtles!), to relaxed sunset sails with a full buffet and open bar, Ali'i Nui's outings are built around breathtaking scenery. During whale season (December through April), the company also runs humpback whale-watching cruises, with sightings often just yards from the vessel. Magnificent whale-watching opportunities with Alii Nui Maui. Alii Nui Maui With the launch of Ali'i Kai, the company brings added range and capacity to its signature excursions, while staying rooted in the same calm, curated style that has made it a standout for years. Where to Stay: Where to Dine: First, Mama's Fish House, which is renowned for its fresh seafood and beachfront location. For a fun sit-down, Merriman's Maui offers farm-to-table dishes with stunning ocean views. Last but not least, Cool Cat Café is a casual spot known for its award-winning burgers. Sail, swim and snorkel in Key West aboard the Marquesa. Key West Sebago Key West delivers a unique blend of tropical ease and high-energy adventure, with turquoise waters, historic charm, and a vibrant food scene all within reach. Sebago Watersports anchors much of the island's action on the water, offering everything from fast-paced excursions to relaxed coastal cruises. Their Power Adventure package is a go-to for thrill-seekers—combining parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more into a three-hour circuit departing from the historic seaport. For something slower-paced, the Lazy Lady Tiki Boat, a 53-foot floating lounge with shaded seating and a full sound system, sets the tone for a more social, sunset-ready experience. The company also offers private transfers for groups of up to 12, ideal for customizing itineraries or simply avoiding the crowds. After a day on the water, Key West's walkable downtown and vibrant culinary scene offer the perfect counterbalance—equal parts casual and eclectic, just like the island itself. Last but not least, enjoy exclusive transportation for groups up to 12 people. Where to Stay: If you want to fuse cuisine into your adventure, check out Key West Sebago's Ragin' Cajun Seafood Snorkel. Key West Sebago Dining Highlights: End the trip with a night of upscale dining at Hot Tin Roof, where the menu focuses on local seafood. Check out El Siboney for its authentic Cuban cuisine in a casual setting. And for a quick bite between all the activities, stop by Garbo's Grill, a food truck offering Korean BBQ tacos. If you're seeking an unforgettable escape with sea-driven activities these seaside destinations offer year-round escapes to suit every traveler's desires. The best part? These adventurous hotspots still incorporate luxurious high-end amenities and culinary meals in-between all the water sports and adventures, ensuring travels achieve the relaxation and holistic wellness they need.
