Voyage charters

12/02/2025

The VOYAGE Express

We are delighted to announce the VOYAGE Express Water Shuttles, now available for your upcoming VOYAGE charter!

Why Choose VOYAGE Express?

Modern Luxury: Brand-new, state-of-the-art hydrofoil power boat.

Comfort Redefined: Fully enclosed cabin with 360-degree panoramic views, air conditioning, and onboard toilet.

Seamless Convenience: Meet your shuttle at the STT airport. A quick transfer to Red Hook connects you with the VOYAGE Express vessel, which takes you directly to Soper’s Hole to clear customs before delivering you to your VOYAGE yacht. Additionally, we offer transfers for those arriving at EIS, Tortola airport.

All-Inclusive Service: Complimentary drinks, thoughtful amenities, and a hassle-free experience are all part of the journey.

Our competitive rates and unparalleled convenience make this the easiest, most luxurious way to begin your adventure in the British Virgin Islands.

Ready to book? Contact your Charter Sales Agent today to secure your VOYAGE Express Water Shuttle for your travel dates. 1.888.869.2436

We’re excited to provide a travel experience that’s just as exceptional as your charter. Let’s make your journey unforgettable from start to finish!

www.voyagecharters.com

09/02/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part VIII

New Horizons and Dreams Take Root Naming new fleet boats has always been a collaborative and enjoyable process for both owners and management. VOYAGE owners often seek a personal connection to their boat’s name, while ensuring a touch of fun is included. Between 1996 and 1999, several VOYAGE 430s joined the fleet with memorable names such as Kinahu, Quixotic, and Maverick Lady.

Maverick Lady was delivered in 1997 from Fort Lauderdale by South African couple Mark and Cecilia Pistor. Soon after meeting this exceptional duo, they were offered a position aboard Maverick Lady. Mark and Cecilia went on to complete 15 outstanding all-inclusive charters before joining Infinite Zest on a journey to Cuba. This Cuba trip aimed to explore the possibility of establishing a charter base in the Southern Archipelago. However, the idea never materialized as Rob and Jo remained focused on expanding the BVI fleet, firmly rooted in what they believed were the world’s best charter grounds.

Mark remained a cherished friend of the Downing family over the years and is now a part-owner of the VOYAGE 590 Home Away. Sadly, the beautiful and vibrant Cecilia passed away, but her memory is held in deep affection by all who knew her. Mark and Cecilia’s bond with the BVI, and especially with Robin, was so profound that they named their first son after him—a deeply touching and enduring connection between the two families.

It was also the year 1997, when Rob and Jo first met Sean and Debbie Campbell. They were the proud owners of Wall Street, another new VOYAGE 430 that joined the BVI fleet. Wall Street was the first yacht in the fleet operated by its owners. Sean and Debs raised the bar once again with exceptional service and memorable island experiences, attracting numerous repeat charter guests. After five successful years with VOYAGE Charters, they left to start their own business in the USA but have remained invaluable supporters of the Downing family and investors in the VOYAGE Company. Their friendship has been a cherished relationship ever since.

Currently, Sean and Debs own Home Again, a VOYAGE 590 in the fleet, with more adventures to come.

By 1998, the team had outgrown the pink house and relocated to a waterfront property on Frenchman’s Cay, across the bay. This move marked a significant turning point for VOYAGE Charters. Rob constructed a dinghy dock to streamline charter operations, host lively crew gatherings, and provide a vibrant outdoor environment for their growing children and their island friends.

During this time, Tanya Tompson, affectionately known as "Tan," played a vital role as the company’s administration person. Her infectious personality uplifted the team and crews, making her a cherished asset to VOYAGE Charters. Tan's contributions extended beyond daily operations, as she actively participated in the early boat shows at Village Cay, showcasing her dedication and enthusiasm for the company’s success.

The dock became a crucial part of the business, so much so that during hurricane threats, Rob, Sharn, and crew would meticulously dismantle it, sink it for protection, and then refloat it once the winds and storm surge had passed. This dedication not only preserved the dock but also ensured the uninterrupted operations and success of VOYAGE Charters.

VOYAGE Charters Story
www.voyagecharters.com/about-us/our-story/

Ready to create yours?
www.voyagecharters.com/my-voyage/
1.888.869.2436

04/02/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part VII

The Fleet Grows Setting New Standards
In 1997, Kim “Kimo” Deutchman, a longtime friend of Robin, began delivering VOYAGE Yachts from Cape Town to the BVI fleet. Over the years, Kimo sailed an impressive number of VOYAGE yachts across the Atlantic, starting with the VOYAGE
470s Adelante and Sense the Magic, and later the 500 models, beginning with Infinite Zest. Other 500s, such as Genesis, Feel the Magic, and Top Secret, soon followed. Kimo also delivered VOYAGE 430s models, accumulating so many miles at sea it’s said he’s sailed the equivalent of a trip to the moon and back!

The VOYAGE 470, originally designed in 1989, was considered one of the finest cruising catamarans of its time. Evolving charter needs, like dive platforms and larger sterns, led to the development of the VOYAGE 500, which became highly popular among blue-water cruisers and charterers alike.

Between 1997 and 2010, when the last VOYAGE 500 was built, VOYAGE Yachts sold many of these innovative sailing vessels. Renowned for their performance and charter-ready designs, these yachts set new standards of excellence in the charter industry, solidifying VOYAGE's reputation and setting VOYAGE charters apart.

There were approximately 22 VOYAGE 430 Yachts sold into the private yachting sector, further enhancing the legacy of the model and reinforcing its reputation for quality and performance.

Our Story
www.voyagecharters.com/about-us/our-story/

Ready to create yours?
www.voyagecharters.com/my-voyage/
1.888.869.2436

03/02/2025

Shoutout to our wonderful neighbors, Omar's Coffee House BVI, for serving up amazing food, great coffee, and capturing this beautiful moment!

About Sunday Bruch at Omar's Coffee House

01/02/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part VI

A fleet is born
By mid-1996, Rob and Jo joined Ian and Jo Stopforth in the BVI, starting with two 40ft catamarans, Scubadu and 40 Something. Their first home and combined office was the double-story pink house near the West End Ferry Terminal, where Rob’s porch served as a maintenance workshop for the two catamarans. Rob dedicated himself to ensuring the boats were always in excellent working order, while Jo, with Stella’s help, meticulously prepared the colorful interiors to welcome guests for their fully crewed yacht experiences.

Despite their busy work schedules, and coordinating many boat-shows and photoshoots, the Downing’s recognized the importance of taking a little “time out” here and there to enjoy the beauty of the islands, balancing their hard work with the occasional opportunity to explore idyllic BVI hot spots.

Life in the Caribbean came with its quirks—visitors often mistook their home for the well-known Jolly Roger Restaurant, adding a touch of humor to their busy days.
Adapting to the buzzing of mosquitos, chickens wandering through the house, and the constant noise and fumes from the nearby ferry became part of the charm of island living.

Stay tuned...

VOYAGE Charters
1.888.869.2436
http://www.voyagecharters.com/my-voyage/

30/01/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part V

The Downing Children Join the Adventure
In January 1996, Rob and Jo’s younger children, Sharn (16) and Sarah (12), joined their parents in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). They completed their education at Cedar International School, which later became a school for their children as well. The children quickly adapted, making new friends and embracing island life.

In early 1997, Rane (19), the Downing’s' eldest son, traveled from South Africa to visit his family in the Virgin Islands. At the time, he was thriving in Cape Town’s film production industry but became captivated by the Caribbean lifestyle. After a few joyful months exploring the BVI, Rane decided to follow in his family’s footsteps, even if it meant changing his career and location to pursue the dream of island living.

VOYAGE Charters is offering a celebration special:
call us 1.888.869.2436 or visit www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special

The Special offer ends Jan 31st, 2025!

27/01/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part IV

Let's take a nostalgic look back at the early days of VOYAGE Yachts and some of the past teams.

Before we dive deeper into the history of VOYAGE charters in the BVI, we would like to highlight the significant role VOYAGE Yachts has played in shaping our story.

VOYAGE Yachts was initially led by Directors Ian Stopforth and Tom Lubbe, with Kay Oldenburg as the Yacht Builder. Over the years, the team expanded and brought together many skilled individuals from the boatbuilding industry, to innovate and drive the development of new yacht models. For over 30 years, Kay and his exceptional teams have been instrumental in the success of VOYAGE, overseeing the construction of close to 200 yachts.

The First Yachts and the Beginning of a Fleet
It all began with “Scubadu”, the first boat. Robin purchased a hull, deck and bulkhead and completed her with a small team. “Scubadu” set sail in 1995, followed by "40 Something, which VOYAGE Yachts then completed." The owners of "40 Something", Terry and Jacqui Weddell, had long-standing friendships with the Downing family. Jacqui and Jo had known each other since their time at Durban’s NAPAC Ballet Company in 1976. A fun little detail, the Weddell’s named their yacht "40 Something" because Terry had just turned 40!

VOYAGE Charters is offering a celebration special:
call us 1.888.869.2436 or visit www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special

The Special offer ends Jan 31st, 2025!

27/01/2025

VOYAGE Charters is offering a celebration special: Lock in your reservation!

1.888.869.2436 or visit www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special

Special offer ends Jan 31st, 2025

23/01/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part III

The Beginning of VOYAGE Yachts
During his time in Cape Town, Robin met Ian and Jo Stopforth, as well as Tom and Deirdre Lubbe. Robin purchased a hull, deck, and bulkhead, outfitting a 40-foot charter catamaran, which he named Scubadu. Friends from Durban, Terry and Jacqui Weddell, purchased a second VOYAGE 400, naming it 40 Something. Robin assisted with the systems for 40 Something before Kay Oldenburg was appointed as the VOYAGE Yachts Boat Builder. This marked the formal establishment of VOYAGE Yachts, with Tom and Deirdre Lubbe serving as directors/owners. To this day, Kay continues to build VOYAGE Yachts, having constructed nearly 200 yachts. Following these developments, Robin and Jo immigrated to the Caribbean, later joined by their younger children to embark on their new journey together.

The Launch & Maiden Voyage of Scubadu
Scubadu was launched in June 1995 and began her maiden voyage from Cape Town across the Atlantic, captained by Karl Prince. After enduring hurricanes Louise and Marilyn in Antigua’s mangroves, the yacht made her final leg of the trip, arriving safely in her new home in Soper’s Hole on 25 October 1995.

Early Friendships and Endearing Staff
In November 1995, Rob and Jo met Dave and Stella Beavis at the Charter Yacht Society Boat Show in Village Cay. A strong professional and personal friendship quickly formed, and the Beavis duo crewed Scubadu for several successful years, impressing charter guests with their exceptional service and expertise.

During this time, the Downing’s also connected with Alfredo Penn “Junie” of JP Transport at Pusser’s Landing in West End. Junie’s reliable taxi service has supported VOYAGE guests since 1996, and he is cherished as part of the extended VOYAGE family to date.

Another key connection in 1996 was Francoise “Frankie” Frank, a waitress at Pusser’s West End. Frankie later became VOYAGE Charters’ front office concierge, winning the hearts of guests and staff with her warmth and dedication.

VOYAGE charters is offering a celebration special: call us 1.888.869.2436 or visit www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special
Special offer ends Jan 31st, 2025

20/01/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part II

A Craftsman’s’ Legacy
Rob later began custom-building larger cruising monohulls, including Blue Chip, Sovereign, Cha-Cha, and Spirit of Knysna to name a few. His incredible talent earned him national recognition in 1992, when he won the Centenary Boat Show Award for “Best Boat of the Year.”

Proverbs 16 v 9: A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.

A Life-Changing Journey
In 1994, Robin sailed Sovereign, his 54-foot custom-built racer/cruiser, from Durban to Cape Town and onward to the Cayman Islands. Jo joined him in Barbados, and together they continued to the Caymans. This ocean journey deeply impacted Robin’s life. Inspired by the adventure, he proposed a Caribbean island lifestyle to Jo, who eagerly embraced the idea.

The Beginning of VOYAGE Yachts
During his time in Cape Town, Robin met Ian and Jo Stopforth, as well as Tom and Deidre Lubbe. Robin purchased a hull, deck, and bulkhead, outfitting a 40-foot charter catamaran, which he named Scubadu. Friends from Durban, Terry and Jacqui Weddell, purchased a second VOYAGE 400, naming it 40 Something. Robin assisted with the systems for 40 Something before Kay Oldenburg was appointed as the VOYAGE Yachts Boat Builder. This marked the formal establishment of VOYAGE Yachts, with Tom and Deidre Lubbe serving as directors/owners. To this day, Kay continues to build VOYAGE Yachts, having constructed nearly 200 yachts. Following these developments, Robin and Jo immigrated to the Caribbean, later joined by their younger children to embark on their new journey together.

As we mark 30 incredible years, we’ll be sharing our history and milestones all year long. Stay tuned!

VOYAGE charters is offering a celebration special: call us 1.888.869.2436 or visit www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special
Special offer ends Jan 31st, 2025

14/01/2025

Celebrating 30 Years – The VOYAGE Story
First Five Years - Part I

An Invitation to Celebrate

We invite you to join us on a very special VOYAGE as we celebrate 30 wonderful years. Let’s start at the beginning, revisiting the first five years of VOYAGE charters in the BVI, while also highlighting the family members, staff, and owners who have been instrumental in making VOYAGE the success it is today.

A Family’s Gratitude

This story is told with deep gratitude, especially to Jack and Noon Downing, Robin’s blessed parents, who helped turn their children’s vision and dreams into reality.

The Arrival in Tortola

It all began on October 25, 1995, when Robin and Jo Downing, owners of VOYAGE charters, arrived in Tortola. They fell in love at first sight with the colorful, quaint West End location on Frenchman’s Cay, known as Soper’s Hole. There was no doubt—this was “The Special Spot” they had dreamed of to house a VOYAGE catamaran fleet. Back then, the fleet consisted of just one 40-foot boat, “Scubadu.”

Robin’s Passion for Boats

Robin's passion for boats began as a teenager on fishing trips with his grandfather off Durban's coast. These outings sparked his love for the water and naval design. At the age of 25, he built his first boat, AVA, a 37-foot Endurance, in his backyard. After launching AVA, Robin sold his house and began living on his yacht full-time. Around this time, he also started dating Jo, his childhood friend since age 11, and they married in 1991.

As we mark 30 incredible years, we’ll be sharing our history and milestones all year long. Stay tuned!

VOYAGE charters is offering an celebration special: call us 1.888.869.2436 or http://voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special

ebrating30YearsOfExellence

08/01/2025

Congratulations to Soggy Dollar Bar and the incredible Soggy Squad on being voted the No. 1 Caribbean Beach Bar by USA TODAY 10Best and fans!

Cheers to many more unforgettable experiences! 🍹🍹🍹

A great beach bar is only as good as its staff and guests ... we are blessed to have the best of both!!! The only contests that truly matter are those voted by the fans themselves! Thank you for voting Soggy Dollar and the Soggy Squad No. 1 Caribbean Beach Bar . There's only ever been one original... Boom!

07/01/2025

Events
Will be at Myett’s in Cane Garden Bay on Tortola 1/23 & 1/24 & Dinghy’s on Water Island 1/26. on Jost Van D**e Feb 3nd!

06/01/2025

Gather your favorite people and set out on an amazing VOYAGE! Thank you Stephen for sharing this beautiful moment.

01/01/2025

The Celebration of the Year is Here!

VOYAGE Charters is proud to celebrate 30 incredible years of creating unforgettable sailing adventures in the stunning British Virgin Islands. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without YOU… our loyal guests and friends.

To thank you, we’re offering an exclusive up to 30% off on select yachts and dates. But don’t wait! This special offer is only available for bookings made in January 2025!

⛵ Booking Window: January 1–31, 2025
🌴 Travel Dates: Select dates throughout 2025

www.voyagecharters.com/forms/anniversary-special

01/01/2025

Happy New Year!
As the clock strikes midnight, let’s raise a glass to new horizons, unforgettable moments, and the adventures ahead!

This year is special for VOYAGE, and something exciting is coming your way soon.

Stay tuned for details – you won’t want to miss this!

28/12/2024

Set Sail with Easy Dining in the BVI!

Make your charter adventure even more enjoyable with pre-packed meals from Capriccio BVI. With ready-to-serve Italian dishes crafted with the finest ingredients and authentic recipes, delivering a taste of Italy wherever your journey takes you.

No planning, no prep… just heat, serve, and enjoy.

Perfect for a day at sea or a peaceful evening on board.

Capriccio will deliver, and VOYAGE will pack it onboard for your arrival.

www.capricciobvi.com/pre-packed-meals

Pre-order now and ensure your charter is stocked with the convenience and flavor you deserve.