Caribbean Charters aboard “El Coqui”
Come aboard the 41 ft. cruising sloop “El Coqui” for a relaxing week-long or day-sail through the islands off Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Whether you’re interested in spending your vacation under sail or simply sun-bathing on deck, your charter will provide all you need for a comfortable stay in the islands. Captain Ben Doornbos and mate/cook Liz Winnell are ready to welcome you aboard!

What does your week-long charter include?
Your charter will include prepared breakfasts, lunches and snacks; beverages, including some alcoholic drinks; linens and all necessary kitchen and bathroom supplies; use of dingy and snorkel gear; not to mention the services of a USCG licensed Captain and skillful cook. “El Coqui” charters can accommodate up to four guests, not including captain and cook. Family packages for up to six guests (four adults and two children, for example) may also be arranged upon request. Rates for charters are based on a flat fee of $4,000 per week. Typical charters last one week, although longer or shorter reservations can be made and costs adjusted accordingly. Not included in your charter are all transportation costs to and from the vessel, dinners (typically eaten ashore), scuba-diving gear, dockage fees (if desired) and gratuity. You must bring your own beach towel, toiletries and additional food/beverage items.

How do I make a reservation?
Reservations for week-long charters are accepted and confirmed with a minimum down-payment of one-half of the total charter cost. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to the beginning date of the reserved charter. In the event of a cancellation, notice must be received a minimum of 60 days prior to the charter to obtain a full refund. Down-payment is forfeited if a reservation is cancelled after this time. No refunds will be made with less than 14 days notice, unless the reserved dates can be re-booked. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Captain Ben Doornbos at either (218) 370-1305 or (616) 990-2530, or at bendoornbos@gmail.com.

Day-sails on “El Coqui”
Though no reservation is required, please call in advance for day-sails. Day-sails may begin at any time before 12 noon and continue for six hours while we visit nearby islands for sailing and snorkeling. Day-sails cost $75 per guest and include lunch, snacks and two drinks per person.

Amenities aboard “El Coqui”
• Two private cabins with clean linens and pillows.
• Fully-stocked galley with refrigerator, freezer, two-burner stove, oven and microwave.
• Comfortable salon dining and living area.
• Plenty of on-deck space for relaxing and dining.
• Two private heads with one shower, and one additional shower on swim-deck.
• Small, portable DVD player with selection of DVDs.
• Selection of board-games.
• Stereo-system with indoor/outdoor speakers, i-pod ready.
• Snorkel gear.
• Dingy with outboard engine.
Captain Ben
Captain & Crew
Docked at Madeline Island, WI. Having fun on a tack!
Captain Ben Doornbos and mate/cook Liz Winnell, both Michigan natives, have spent their entire lives by the Great Lakes. Both grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan, met in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and began sailing together 5 years ago on Lake Superior from the small Minnesota town of Grand Marais. As Captain of the schooner “Hjordis,” Ben has sailed with mate/cook Liz through the summer months on week-long charters to many destinations on Lake Superior. Ben has worked on a variety of sailing vessels, and has sailed both the Great Lakes and the Caribbean. He holds a USCG Captain’s License with sail endorsement. Guests of Ben and Liz’s charters have commented on their easy-going nature and flexibility as captain and crew. Both have worked with many novice sailors and are more than willing to “show you the ropes!”