The feeling of getting out on the water
can be both thrilling and tranquil, but not
everyone is able to reside near the beach,
and the high costs of boat ownership make
the joys of ocean and lake activities inaccessible
to many Fortunately, there are several options for
those who wish to spend their vacations submerged
in cool blue seas or taking in the
vast ocean through a fishing expedition. This list,
presented in no particular order, offers holiday ideas
for those who can't get enough of the
water.
The # 1 entry is Dana Wharf, located
in Dana Point California, just south of Newport
Beach. The area is known for whale watching
opportunities, with many visitors seeing blue humpback, and
grey whales, as well as dolphins and other
sea life. One can charter a vessel for
a private viewing experience, including on a 63-foot
catamaran that can hold up to 59 passengers.
The Wharf is popular among anglers, as there
are full- and half-day fishing excursions year-round and
a week-long camp for kids learning the water
sport. Those with a competitive edge might try
the Halibut Derby, where prize money is awarded
to the person who catches the largest five
fish by weight.
Coming in at # 2 is GetMyBoat, a
global marketplace for watercraft rentals, yacht charters, and
ocean experiences, with listings in cities around the
world, including in Cartagena, Cabo San Lucas Miami,
and Honolulu. In Key West Florida, customers can
book a private sandbar and snorkeling trip.
The company was founded in San Francisco by
Sascha Mornell and Raf Collado. Since many of
the bookings come with an experienced captain and
crew aboard, customers don't need to worry about
personal boating experience or knowledge. GetMyBoat has been
featured in numerous press outlets, including ABC 10
San Diego and Curiocity.
For # 3 we have the Hinckley Company.
Founded in Southwest Harbor Maine, it makes customized
watercraft ranging from sailboats to motor yachts. Hinckley
is the only builder using carbon and Kevlar
composite on its vessels from bow to stern,
which the company claims gives them extra strength.
Once the customer's watercraft has arrived, the company
will provide three full days of hands-on training,
so the buyer is fully confident in operating
every system on board. In 2017, Hinckley debuted
the Dasher, the world's first fully electric luxury
yacht.
Next, at # 4 we present Experience The
Finger Lakes. This tour company is committed to
sharing some of the best activities in Upstate
New York, including wine tastings, boat rides, and
hikes. It's owned and operated by local Ithacans
Laura and Alan Falk, and has been recognized
by TripAdvisor as the # 1 tour in
the region.
There are several cruise options available. On Cayuga
Lake, one can embark on an osprey eco-tour,
which lets guests see the birds' nesting sites
and possibly catch a glimpse of the parents
and fledglings flying above the water. Sunset journeys
and private cruises are also available.
Rounding out our list at # 5 is
Tropic Star Lodge, a fishing resort in Pinas
Bay Panama. It is situated on a hillside
in the Darien Jungle and can only be
reached by charter plane. The lodge's remote location
offers many unique fishing opportunities, allowing guests to
catch black marlin sailfish, and more.
Every room at the lodge has an ocean
or garden view. On the premises are a
swimming pool restaurant, and multiple bars, all surrounded
by the jungle. Those who don't wish to
go fishing might try the other water activities
offered, such as paddle boarding kayaking, or snorkeling.