Gambit - Crewed Catamaran Charter

What an amazing trip! Beautiful places, great food, great people, great boat, and wonderful memories. We have loved our time on Gambit and can´t wait to come back someday.....maybe we will have a little less wind next time! thank you Doug and Val, for everything. Cheers
Mackie, Bruce, Jenni and Brian

On behalf of the entire Mueller family, thank you for your professional, caring and generous spirit while on Gambit. It was a trip of a lifetime for our family and it exceeded our expectations in every way. We are so very grateful for this experience.
Fondly, Jan, Joel, Kristen, Andrew and Marjan.

Wow, what a fantastic week! The balance of activity and relaxation was great. Val´s meals were amazing, evidenced by clean plates at every meal. A. lot to say for a family of six with a variety of diets. Doug was a fun and active guide who taught us all diving skills and led us on many adventures over the week. His encouragement and skill-building had us achieving awesome depths with confidence. Very cool. Highlights included Mountain Point, The Indians, Anegada Conch Tour, many white sand beaches and more. Thanks for an amazing trip and holiday!
The Kirbys

This week has been nothing short of amazing. Teamwork makes the dream work and both of you make an outstanding team. Thank you for making the celebration of Tom´s birthday a truly memorable experience. And the food? Wow! Val made each meal more amazing than the one before. Doug, thank you for the itinerary, it was a perfect blend of shore and sea even with the weather challenges.
Tom, Sue, Nick and Colette

Thanks for another amazing trip! Trip #4 certainly did not disappoint.
Frank and Valorie

First of all, you two are the most congenial and professional hosts we have encountered. Thank you for the delicious meals that you served, Valerie, I learned a few new things from you. And Doug, your knowledge and all your other talents just blew us away. The snorkeling, views, stories - just too many to mention. Thank you for keeping us safe as well. You both make a perfect team.
Rick and Sue

What an absolutely fabulous week with you on Gambit! We are so grateful for al the thought, care and hard work you put in to make this a legendary trip for our family. Henry and Colt are spoiled for life now!
Sarah, Hans, Henry and Colt

We had a delightful time relaxing and simply doing nothing! Food was delicious and I tried new foods and can´t wait to get back and try the new techniques and food. Doug, your stories were wonderful and thank you for encouraging me to jump in and snorkel with the ´big´ fish. I would have regretted not going. We hope to catch you in the Grenadines....
Tim and Deanne

This has been a holiday of a lifetime. We have enjoyed relaxing, island hopping and snorkeling. I have never seen Joe so relaxed. The stunning colors of the water and pure white sands have been a site that you never get tired of. The weather has been perfect. Our hosts Val and Doug have been exactly as we wanted, attentive but blending into the background when needed. Did I mention the food? Yummo! Cannot thank you both enough.
Christine and Joe

Thanks so much for hosting. We enjoyed Brewers Bay, it was lovely. Really liked the lime and ginger dipping sauce. Thanks for decorating and using the themes.
Rosie and Mark

Thank you for such an amazing week. I loved everything about it. The food was exceptional, the presentation outstanding. It was so great to have all of our meals together as a family and for the girls to be able to spend so much time together. You gave them so many great experiences. Thank you so much for that.
Laura

I had an absolute blast on this trip. It was the best vacation I have ever been on. Val, your cooking was absolutely divine, better than some of the fanciest restaurants I´ve been to. I enjoyed every single bite! Doug, thank you so much for taking us on all the adventures. The hike through the bat cave was one of the coolest I´ve ever been on. Thanks for making me jump off the cliff, it was exhilarating! And the snorkels were absolutely amazing. Thank you so much for everything. I will never forget this trip:) Also I loved your accents! Love Mia

This week has been one of the single most amazing experiences of my life. Thank you so much for graciously welcoming us into your beautiful home and allowing us an unforgettable glimpse into this breathtaking life. I will never forget the small and grand moments that made this trip so memorable.
Lucia

What more can I say? Thank you fr creating such great memories for my family. We had a great time and we enjoyed spending our time together. It was so nice to have such a carefree existence for a week - a week without a ´to do´ list on my part. Thank you for squeezing so much fun into every part.
Steve

WOW! WOW! WOW! What an amazing experience! this week has been so special - in large part because of you two. Val, you are incredible and the food was incredible. You do not stop for 18 hours of each day! And Doug, your choices of locations etc were impeccable! You two are an amazing team. Thanks for sharing Gambit with us, and teaching and showing your experiences, knowledge etc. This trip will always have a special place in my memories and heart.
Dessie and Jay

To our new friends, Doug and Val, 60 never felt so good! What a super-fantastic week. The BVI are so beautiful and we had so much fun. With none of us having done a charter before, we had no idea what to expect, but the two of you made this trip so incredible special. Favorite moments not to be forgotten: drunk animals, dinghy trips. color of water, barefoot hikes, fish and coral, smiles and sense of humor.
Ben and Susan

Dear Captain and Admiral, what a wonderful week we have had with you and Gambit. You are an amazing team and gracious hosts. Val´s meals will be especially remembered, Dreams of tarpon, coral, sails, gales, all special memories of Susan´s 60th. Thank you for sharing your lovely home, and for spoiling us. We will hold this special time close in our hearts. Everything was perfect
Hunter & Missy

Thanks is not enough for this trip of a lifetime. You have made our lives richer for having met you both. Loved the trip, Gambit, the BVI and you guys too. So glad we could be part of this week.
Tom & Connie

Thank you for your commitment to excellence. Both engineering and culinary, everything worked! Especially Delilah (ice machine)

Thank you for the most amazing and mountaintop experience of my vacations! Val, your creative and most delicious meals were fantastic! Doug, your perfection with caring for us as you sailed and handled the boats perfectly! Enjoyed all your stories and words of wisdom.
Ann

A catamaran trip in the BVI has been on my bucket list for more than a decade. Thank you for making it even more than I hoped it could be. Your choice of weather was perfect! The food was awesome Val, loved it. The logistics and sailing were amazing. Thank you for sharing your life experiences and your home with us.
Tom

To Val (the culinary goddess) and....uh....that guy - yeah, him: thank you so much for the Girls´ Getaway adventure of a lifetime. Your encyclopedic knowledge of the BVI (and sailing life) made the week the best it could have been, and your hospitality was impeccable. There was ´something for everyone´ and we so enjoyed our time together, including our time with both of you. We can´t thank you enough. Watch out - we´ll be baaaack!
Cathy ´the water´s cold´
Elena ´the conch fart champion´
Juli ´the silent one´
Lisa ´the how about a night cap one´

Thank you for showing us the beautiful BVI. It was an incredible adventure, one we will not forget and hope to do again soon......maybe in the Grenadines. The meals every day were beyond delicious, we were spoiled. We loved being on Gambit, what a well appointed boat that is clearly taken such good care of. All the different places we set sail to were a spectacular experience and the snorkeling was of the best we´ve ever had. It was wonderful to be taken care of for the week by two people who clearly know the BVI best.
Catherine, Teddy, Peter, Hugh and Willa

What a wonderful, magical week with Val and Doug. The six of us were just so comfortable, so well fed, and enchanted with Gambit and her crew - Doug´s stories, Val´s exquisite cooking, the beauty of the BVI- we were in heaven for a week. Thank you.
Louise and Ridge

This has been the best trip ever! Doug and Val were perfect hosts and Gambit the perfect vessel. We were long time monohull sailors and this first time catamaran cruise was truly memorable.
George and Kathy

Thank you for giving us a cruise of a lifetime. Loved every minute!
Betsy and John

Zach, our kids, and I had a wonderful time aboard Gambit. This truly has been a trip of a lifetime. Your hospitality was impeccable. The the cozy cabinet and bedrooms, to the delicious food cooked up by Val each day, and the sailing expertise of our captain Doug. We can´t thank you enough and sincerely appreciate your kindness and patience with our kids but most importantly for making it so much fun for them, as well Zach and me.
The Schaumburg family

Val and Doug, you two are treasures! This is our third or fourth trip to the BVI and you made it the best - in spite of some weather curve balls. You took us to the properly hidden coves where Mother Nature provided the stages for incredible saline performances. But most of all you treated my precious family like family!
Lori

Thank you for a fantastic week. I now have a new love for the d=sea and snorkeling. The food has been delicious and your stories of travel and adventure inspiring.
Sarah

What a wonderful week. We have loved every second of it from the food to the best snorkel spots to the wonderful life stories. We hope to meet again and may your life be full of love and adventure.
Katie

Lynell and I both thank you for the marvelous sailing trip. You both have a talent for making your guests have a fabulous time. What fine food and presentation the whole trip. What super concern and care for our comfort. A trip we shall remember for the rest of our lives. Doug, thanks for the humor and entertainment during the sail. The drone video was an absolute great inclusion to our many photos. Thank you for teaching me more about the water and sailing the BVI. Val, your skill at food and presentation is five star. Thank you both for sharing the dawn and the stars on the trip.
Bob and Lynell

´To see the world in a grain of sand
and a heaven in a wild flower,
hold infinity in the palm of your hand
and eternity in a hour...´
William Blake
This week may be but a grain of sand, but it will stay in our hearts forever. Treasured memories, treasured friends. Thank you for everything.
Mike & Shelia

I guess we could spend a lot of time trying to imagine how you could have made our trip more perfect, but it would have been a waste of mental energy!! We have bare-boated in the BVI for 40 years, mostly on our own catamaran, and you managed to show us beautiful anchorages we had never considered. A True Revelation!! The food and hospitality were amazing. You managed to handle Anne-Marie´s food allergies while making gourmet meals for all of us. It was a trip that will span a lifetime of memories.
Richard & Anne-Marie

We can´t thank you enough for all the hospitality and good food as well as the good times we had this week on Gambit. It was a week that we will always look back on fondly. We will think of you when we play dice and have a big email on our faces. We hope to sail the BVI with you again.
The Ckarks

Though we all came to this trip with different expectations, hopes and anxieties, our family is leaving this boat with a shared feeling of deep gratitude. We are baffled as to how a week went by so quickly. You make a bunch of land-locked Americans wish we were pirates!! Thank you both so mush for a truly fantastic week. We loved the islands, the snorkeling, the boat and the amazing food - but all agree that the best part was getting to know and love the two of you. You made us feel like well loved family members. We hope this is not good bye, but rather ´see you soon´. Thanks again
Nancy, Glenn, Jess, Ashley, Dan and Owen

WOW! What a wonderful and memorable experience aboard Gambit with you both. Having regularly cruised the BVI since our honeymoon 35 years ago,, we were introduced to so many new experiences both on the water and from Val´s amazing 5 Star galley. The diversity, creativity, presentation and freshness were present in every meal. The wonderful aromas and flavors that flowed from the galley to our plates we will remember forever. Your stories of your family´s journeys and discoveries around the globe read like one adventure novel and we were honored to hear them directly from the authors. Just when we thought we knew every anchorage in the BVI, Doug would surprise us with a new one that would be better than the last. We will remember this vacation forever! Thank you!
Kim and Dave

Yay! What a wonderful week! You two made our week extra special. We have never been to many of the places you took us - all just a dream. We hope to see you on you travels trough Dallas or on a return trip to the BVI!
Bill and Emily

To say that this trip was phenomenal would be an incredible understatement. We cannot thank you both enough for your hospitality, kindness and grace. Thank you both for hosting and sharing God´s beauty and love via the BVI. We are already looking forward to our next adventure with you.
The Sears

We have had a trip of a lifetime! We can´t thank you enough for the whole experience, the sailing, the snorkeling, the food, just everything!
Kathy and Rod

Thank you for one of the best vacations ever! jWe had some trepidation coming into this but the two of you made the experience so smooth and delightful. Doug, you chose the perfect locations with perfect timing, and told so many engaging and amazing stories. Val, you provided us with world class food and brightened our days with your spirited laugh and sunny personality. Amazingly we were able to tick off every under water encounter on our wish list. the two of you made us feel special and very pampered. We couldn´t have asked for a better week.
Dwight and Sandra

We hate to see the week end. We´ve seen beautiful places, snorkeled amazing reefs, had fantastic meals, and spent time with two unique and fascinating people. We loved hearing about your home country, and the future you envision for yourselves. You´ve been the perfect hosts, but more importantly you´ve treated us as friends. That will be the thing we take with us and always remember. Thank you for everything.
Mike and Cindy

Thank you so much for such a memorable week! So many beautiful places and wonderful meals. When we planned this trip, we didn´t know what to expect.... but it was above and beyond! Gambit was the perfect fit for the memories we are creating with our good friends - hopefully with more to come. You two were the best hosts!
Fondly
The Howards

This trip was wonderful! We had a great time. All the beautiful places, the special food, everything exceeded all of our expectations!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Beto, Rafa, Laura, & Pedro

Thank you for the wonderful BVI adventure. The amazing food and fabulous adventures made it a trip we will never forget! Blessings!
Mike and Lea

Absolutely magnificent once again! Thank you for the experiences and life lessons that you teach and demonstrate by example, meeting you both and spending time with you is truly a life enriching blessing. You are always welcome in our home.
Scott and Whitney

Thank you, your spirit and teamwork is inspirational and motivational. Best vacation ever!
Jody and Cheryl

One year ago we percolated this plan to spend a week with good friends and four teenagers in the BVI with Val and Doug. Anticipations ran high, as did worry over all the restrictions and travel issues - would covid keep us away? Lucky for us we descended on Gambit and spent an amazing week swimming with fishes, turtles, spotted rays and dolphins. We ate amazing food, saw incredible scenery, drank (too much (:), and reunited with great friends and enjoyed quality time with our kids. And what do we say about Val and Doug? You guys were incredible hosts, and inspirational, and love... I could go on for days. We are eternally thankful for the gift we have given us this week - rest, rejuvenation, and a sense of being cared for. We wish you the best for your upcoming chapters.
The Pelletier gang

We are most grateful for what has been a fabulous adventure! We truly enjoyed your extensive knowledge of the Bvi, it´s islands, it´s people, it´s creatures below and even the stars above. You have mastered the life aquatic and we thoroughly enjoyed the ride! The meals so thoughtfully crafted by Val were fantastic and Dou´s seamanship impressive. Gambit is a floating toy box full of it´s own treasures, from paddling to snorkeling to the joy that was watching kids hang onto a speeding tube. We thank you sincerely for sharing your world with us, even only one week has reset us on a peaceful path and from here we´ll just keep looking for the Southern Cross
With gratitude,
Matt, Jill, Finn and Rory

Thank you so much for an amazing trip! We are so lucky to have been able to do this. The sailing and snorkeling was awesome. Val, the food was 5 star! We look forward to doing this again. Thank you again for everything!
Danny and Merilin

Trip #3 has been another amazing adventure! Who knew these trips could get any better? You both are amazing at what you do and your love of the islands and the ocean shines through in what you do! Thanks again for another wonderful trip around the islands.
Frank and Valorie

On the 13th June, 2022, Captain Doug and I, Jacob, handily vanquished my plain, rowdy, vehement wife Trish and her lowly unadvantageous partner Frank at Cornhole, 10-6 final score. According to Trish, Captain and I will one day stride victorious and gratified through the gates of Valhalla to re-unite with Doug´s own previous self, Viking Doug. Our lives were of value to Odin. Gratefully, Jacob and Trish

Thank you for a wonderful trip aboard your home. The food, hospitality, and sights were absolutely perfect. the snorkeling and dives we´ve right on, along with the Rummikub. Sail on my friends, and hope to see you again.
Monique and Chris

Thanks so much for a wonderful trip. The food was amazing along with all the snorkeling stops and nightly stops. Glad that we finally made it back to my paradise and hopefully will be able to return again much sooner! Thanks again for everything!
Teresa and Greg

Thank you so much for sharing your floating home with us. Our tummyswere full, full, full with the most delicious food, presented beautifully. Thank you Doug and Val, for making this week so much fun. All the different places we went, each with a different beauty. We hope to see you again.
Karl and Janice

This excursion has been extraordinary. Has been on Tom and my bucket list and it has been amazing. The food, the experience in each stop and the graciousness of the two of you. Loved chatting and sharing experiences in our everyday lives back home. I know Tom loved helping Doug sail and learned even more about sailing from him. You both are masters and we wish you all the luck in the future sails as this one was tops! Thank you and sure we will keep tabs on your exciting journeys.
Tom and Dorothy

Thank you so much for an all-round amazing vacation experience! The snorkeling, beautiful spots to anchor each day and night, the food! Absolutely fantastic! We really enjoyed chatting with you and you really made the trip as good as it could be. Next time we might let Doug win at LRC
Carolyn and Don

You guys were pretty cool for being South African!!! LOL. Just kidding! That´s the Brit in me!
Seriously you provided our family an awesome time and were very accommodating given 4 generations! Until next time keep your wind at your back and sun on your faced keep smiling, you have created an amazing lifestyle
Your 3rd mate
James

Thank you for the hospitality, amazing food, stunning sights and for putting up with our kiddos. Our honeymoon was everything we dreamed of and more!
Tracy

What an amazing experience we have had on Gambit. the weather, the scenery, the beaches have been fantastic. But the hospitality and the food were unsurpassed. We could not have asked for a more wonderful trip to the BVI with you. Thank you! Thank you!
Pat
Val, every meal was so wonderful, I don´t know how you do it so consistently! Doug, thank you for safe passage and sharing your military experiences. Best of luck with the new truck! God bless you always and congratulations on the upcoming wedding
Gary

It took us a while to get here due to having to cancel due to covid, but we finally made it! Thank you for all the amazing days in the BVI, you two are wonderful and we enjoyed every minute. Your great stories and jokes Doug, and Val your beautiful details and work of art meals that were picture perfect. This was a trip of a lifetime and you completed the experience. So fun playing Rummikub with you both!
Love Tom and Julie

Our anticipation and expectations were high after booking this voyage 11 months ago. How fortunate for us you greatly exceeded our lofty expectations with your attentiveness and meals. Our group of life long friends made some more memories, of which you are now a part, they will be revisited many times in the coming years, I am certain.
Rick and Susan

We enjoyed and appreciated being dropped into so many great spots for our swims and fish watching - and good discussions on the ´State of the State´
Tom and Jackie

What a great trip. You are wonderful hosts. The meals were excellent and your friendliness and professionalism is much appreciated. It is a bonus when I learn little things along the way and I picked up some useful tips. Thank you
Tim and Kathy

We had no idea what this trip was going to show and teach us. It has exceeded our expectations. Your kindness will never be forgotten - thank you! Food waste notch every single day - Val you are fantastic. Meals, planning, activities were absolutely outstanding. You both are gracious hosts. If my toenail floats up on shore and you find it, just leave it!
Hoota and Jeanette

Thank you for taking such good care of us!This will be an experience we will never forget. You were the perfect hosts and you were a great match for our group. All of your hard work didn´t go unnoticed.
Thanks for everything.
Maria and Rob

The adage ´the third time is the charm´ certainly applies here. In spite of our early exit it was the perfect five days! Your hospitality is warm and welcoming, the food delicious, the drinks cold and plentiful, but the very best of all is the friendship we have formed. cherished and treasured! We will only say ´until next time´ and hope that time comes very soon! Thank you for making Frank´s 60th so special! ~ Meg and Frankie

What an amazing experience... the perfect five days! Dan and I loved every single moment! You both are exceptional as charter crew but mostly as the most welcoming and fascinating people I have ever known. I´d love to have this experience again! ~ Dan and Alexa

Boat living was the great unknown....
LOVED IT!!!
thank you Doug and Val for showing us the hidden wonders of the wind and sail. It is with heavy hearts that we leave you both and the beauty of the Virgin Islands that you showed us. But we take amazing memories and lessons home with us, as well as the possibility of being guests on Gambit once more. It was a Spring Break for the books ~ Devin, Linda, Jason, Nico, David & Robin

Doug, Val and Gambit ~ While our week has come to a close, the memories will last a lifetime. You are two very special people with the gift of making everyone feel comfortable and welcome aboard Gambit. We have waited a long time to share this experience with our children, and it was perfect. From diving, snorkeling, cliff jumping, the swim thru, tubing, paddle boards and kayaks to our land adventures it was all amazing. It was very special to be able to include my parents as well, I know this is not something they would have done on their own. Val - you pour yourself into those incredible meals and the family time spent around the table enjoying them was good for the soul. Thank you! We truly appreciate you both & very much hope to see you again very soon!!! Much love to your growing family and have a fun year ahead ~ Beth, Lance, Gavin, Dick, Alice, Ashlyn

What an amazing experience....the perfect 5 days! Dan and I loved every single moment! You are both exceptional as charter captains but mostly as the most welcoming and fascinating people I have ever known. I´d love to have this experience again!
All our thanks
Dan and Alexa

Three words that describe our week .... peaceful, uplifting, heaven! Thank you for your gracious hospitality! Thank you for your knowledge! thank you for being the perfect hosts! We are blessed to have met you both and that one day our jpasths will cross again ~ Sean and Michele

As Michele said.... thanks so much!!! What a wonderful week with wonderful hosts. A great captain, fantastic chef... just a wonderful time ~ Peter and Elizabeth

Yes Doug and Val, Jim and I feel like we´ve gained two wonderful friends. You really made our week comfortable, fun, adventurous and the food was superb. Thank you friends ~ Jim & Lynne

Doug and Val, thank you for an amazing time. Val, thank you for all the wonderful food and stories. Doug, thank you for getting me to go snorkel and taking us to the wonderful hidden pool. I believe I will snorkel again! ~ Dale and Dan

Doug! Val! WOW!!
IT WAS AN AMAZING TRIP - TRULY AMAZING! Always the food - it couldn´t be better. The dives....so much fun for the gang. Anegada was unbelievable! The beaches and swimming so enjoyable. but the best of all is the two of you! Your are perfect hosts. We love you so much and thank you for being such a fun part of our family. some of the best memories. We can´t wait until next time ~ Don, Vickey & the gang

Doug and Val! so proud to once again share you and Gambit with more family. You both are the best at everything you have to offer - you open your ´home´ to us, and even though we are sad when it comes to a conclusion, we are glowing inside and out. Hope to see you possibly in November, hugs to you both ~ John & Susie

So happy to have spent more time with you and Gambit. We talked about the trip before this one for years with great affection and now we have more wonderful memories to share with our friends and family. We hope that you guys will always be our friends and that you feel like members of our family too. Until we meet again, safe travels and full sails ~ Randy & Carol

Thank you so much for welcoming us so warmly onto your boat and home. We felt comfortable and immediately at home, like old friends united. Cheers to you both, esp Val and her amazing food! Thanks again ~ Randi & Micah

Thank you so much for a wonderful trip that I will never forget. Val, your cooking and our astronomy lesson, and Doug, I hope you think of our family when you grab ice from your newly named machine Delilah. I hold you both dearly in my heart ~ Georgia

WOW!WOW!WOW! What an amazing vacation for the eight of us. the two of you work tirelessly to assure the best of everything for your guests. Doug we felt so secure with your attention to detail with the wind, currents and swell in sailing and also in snorkeling. Val, your meals were off the charts. They were both health and delicious. We have been on many all inclusive vacations but none have been as amazing as yours! We feel like we have known you forever because of your earth and hospitality. See you in Oregon some day soon ~ Nancy and Bruce

Well, UNBELIEVABLE, is the best way to describe these last 9 days! For our 1st sailing trip we couldn´t have scripted a better time, a better crew, a better experience with all of us, and it is because of you two. As Louie from Casablanca said to Humphrey Bogart ´this is the start to a beautiful friendship´. We hope our paths cross again very soon. Cheers, God Bless and see you at the next port of call! Billy aka ´the chum´

Val and Doug - you two have managed to create the perfect combination for a perfect getaway. Your enthusiasm, zest and love for what you do energized us all. I´ll be pinching myself when I get home, thinking was it all a dream? Thank you for bringing this dream to life. Love you both and hope to see you in Oregon ~ Anne

Val and Doug ~ difficult to find words to express how wonderful our vacation has been. Many thanks for your warm hospitality, delicious meals and all your kindness 24/7. To be among special friends and the best hosts created memories of a lifetime. Thanks again - til we meet again ~ Cynthia & Jon

To our friends Doug and Val ~ such a privilege to spend 9 days laughing and living with you in your home Gambit. Everything about the vessel speaks of your ingenuity, your creativity and can-do spirit. We´re grateful for all your hospitality, good cheer, guidance and companionship. May the two of you always keep expanding your horizons, chasing your dreams, living a big life, and loving the people around you. We can´t wait to hear the latest chapters when we meet again ~ Carl and Kim

Doug and Val ~ Thank you for an amazing week on Gambit. You welcomed us like family from the moment we set foot on board. We had the time of our lives diving with you Doug and the kids absolutely loved waterskiing and wake boarding. Val, you are such a wonderful chef and host and we are incredibly appreciative of everything you provided. We consider your family as friends and look forward to the next time we can sail with you again ~ George, Heidi, Kaitlyn, Natalie and Eric

Val and Doug ~ You made us feel like family with your warmth. Your cooking and serving skills are at the very very top, that was Val! Doug, your fix it skills are at the very top keeping us in ice etc etc! Best of all was the feeling of absolute trust in you to be able to relax completely! We feel like you are friends and would welcome you into our home although our cooking skills are nowhere near!! It has been a lovely time by all ~ thank you for your hospitality!Michael, Honeya, Max, Elise, Tarah & Alex

What an amazing vacation! You are by far the best hosts we have ever had. You both gave us an experience our family will never forget. Best wishes on all your future adventures ~ Juanita & Bob

I´m so glad we made it onto Gambit after a year delay with Covid; well worth the wait. Thank you for a fabulous sail and your wonderful hospitality from your gourmet meals, interesting stories and diving expertise. And thank you for the special anniversary cake for my parents 50th ~ that was a lovely surprise! Memories were made that will last a lifetime ~ Karah

We have been so fortunate to have you as hosts on the amazing vacation. We could not have had a better experience that you provided for us. This has truly been a once in a lifetime that my family and I will definitely remember and treasure ~ Eric

Thanks for a wonderful trip, we could not have been happier with the sail, the food and the hosts! You truly know how to put on a 1st class charter. But most enjoyable was getting to know you both and having the opportunity to live a life experience with fun hosts and guests. Cheers! Prost! Oogee Wawa ~ Bets & Tom

I was a bit hesitant about spending a week on a boat with eight people. It was amazing though. Val and Doug made the trip so special - the food, friendship and great sailing. Lifetime experience for sure ~

It was a trip of a lifetime! Val and Doug, you could not have been sweeter or more accommodating. You have a wealth of knowledge about the area and we enjoyed the charter so much ~ Tom & Janice

Huge thank you Val and Doug for making our vacation so special. This was a week we will never forget. The diving was spectacular and we appreciate the encouragement to take the leap off the rock. You are special people. Best, Sean & Amanda

This week has been truly amazing! We have had the best time getting to know you both. the food was sensational, as were the sights. Thanks so much for your hospitality ~ Michael & Jodi

Thank you so much for the most amazing trip ever! thank you Val for the most delicious meals and for catering to my picky food requests. Thanks Doug for your inspiring stories and finding the most incredible places on the islands to explore. This was an unforgettable trip that we hope to experience again ~ Maggie & Carter

Thank you Doug and Val for the most memorable week. We felt at home on Gambit and loved the food, hospitality, activities and jokes. Cannot think of anything that could have made for a better stay ~ Mike, Lori, Sienna & Scarlett

Another fantastic cruise Thank you for your wonderful meals Val. The kids love your recipes, eating things they never would at home! And Doug, the quotes and advice to the kids really does stick! they remember much from 2018. We can´t thank you enough ~ Lydia & Saylars!

Well we´re completing our 2nd trip of a lifetime with you! It´s nice to know we have another family on the other side of the world - I have a feeling you haven´t seen the last of us!! ~ Felicity, Leo & Claudia

With the challenges of covid and apprehension palpable in seven travelers, our broker Lynne and especially our Captain Doug calmed nerves and showed us the path to enter the BVI, even as it changed often. Once we boarded, a sense of calm came over us all. During our week we enjoyed many great meals which Val prepared, as well as island drinks prepared by Doug. We roamed from Tortola to Peter to Norman to Jost and little Jost, through the Dogs to Virgin Gorda and Anegada. Every island afforded us new adventures above and below the water. Soggy is always a favorite, as was Anegada lobsters. Driving a moke on the wrong side of the road wasn´t too scary. Various snorkeling sites and tubing gave the kids great adventures. Doug and Val will provide you an adventure to remember. Determine your ´wants´ and Doug and Val will craft you week ~ Matt

A trip to the islands brings great expectations. You have exceeded all expectations. For the last week we have been living in paradise and this all thanks to you. We all so appreciate how concerned you were about fulfilling every need and asking if we were happy. The meals were exceptional and the diving beyond compare! This was a vacation we´ll be talking about for the rest of our lives. Thank you for a trip to treasure and remember ~ Cady & Jerry

It was our 3rd BVI trip. All have been memorable but you went above and beyond. Believe me when I say we noticed all the ´behind-the-scenes´ hard work and ´extras´. Doug, thank you for getting me out of my comfort zone and taking me diving ~ Robert, Joseph, Reggie & Wendy

Thank you for providing us with a vacation that will be part of our family memories forever. The time with you was incredible, even with having to deal with Covid protocols. Your hospitality, guidance and friendship were so appreciated. You felt like family from the beginning and we look forward to seeing you in the not too distant future! - Barry and Linda

Thank you for such an amazing trip, you both are an awesome team. We made so many memories that we will always cherish. We hope to cross paths with you again soon - Kayci & Jeremy

I can´t imagine any way that this trip could have been better without the two of you being part of it. Your friendliness, knowledge and flexibility are part of what made my time here as amazing as it was. Thank you for all you´ve done and for helping me make these memories that will last a lifetime - Ben

Thank you for everything you did for us and for being such amazing hosts. We all had a fantastic time and will cherish all the memories. It was truly an honor to meet you and hopefully we will see each other again in the near future. All the very best to you! - Mike and Lynn

We are ever so grateful our lives have intersected - your gracious hospitality speaks wonders to who you are. We have thoroughly enjoyed the ride - beyond our expectations, and look forward to meeting again sometime. Our very best to you always.

Thank you for an amazing trip!So guys were so attentive to every detail and were exceptional hosts. I must say this was the best trip of my life and I look forward to a return visit. We loved all the jokes, stories and knowledge of the area, and Val, your cooking and presentation was fabulous.

Thank you for a wonderful week fun of adventure, activity, laughter, delicious meals and great company! Your two are so simpatico! It was a total pleasure being with you and feeling safe in your capable hands. Thanks

WOW! what an amazing vacation. We really appreciate you welcoming us into your home and taking us to the best places in the BVI. We will never forget the yellow flag of honor being the only boat in each bay and having two islands to ourselves. You are the best! - Sherri and Steve

Thank you for a wonderful, wonderful, tremendous charter! It was a challenge to get here (1 year delayed)but well worth the wait. So fun to stay at anchorages that we have never seen before - thank you for that! We can´t wait for our next charter with you..... Grenadines?? Susan & Ray

From two non boat people, we had an amazing time. We can not say enough about our fantastic charter. The food, hospitality, knowledge of the area and everything else, truly spectacular. Thank you for an awesome trip of a lifetime - Tracy and Chris

We had a wonderful time! I didn´t think it would be better than the first time ´cos that was so amazing....but it was! The dives, the food, the games - everything was perfect! Can´t wait ´til next time - D & Vi
I have enjoyed getting to spend these nine days with you. Thank you so much for the stories and laughs. Doug, I appreciate the time taken to take us on dives, and Val for the chats and amazing food. You two are one of a kind and such a joy to be around, thank you so much for allowing us into your home - Andy

Letter to the broker ~ ´We could not be happier with your recommendation of team Gambit/Doug and Val. Early on in our selection process, you stated that I should first find a crew with bio´s that seemed to be a fit with what we were looking for, and then secondly, see if we liked the boat. That was absolutely the best travel advice ever. When I selected Doug and Val at your suggestion, I really didn´t yet understand how excellent your guidance was.

They are the ultimate hosts/experts to host a yacht vacation. Their easy warm style, great conversation and communication, sense of humor, world travel experience, nautical knowledge, bartending and culinary skills were all truly exceptional and exceeded our expectations. My family was just blown away every day of this trip.

Doug did a great job manuevering bad weather and managed to find the perfect and interesting anchorages every single day. He´s happy to share his marine knowledge both above and below sea level and always has a great story to tell. What an interesting guy! We could have talked with him non-stop for weeks!

Val is a gem. While she comes across as quiet and unassuming, she was quick to get in on our family jokes and humor and truly helped take things to a whole other level that our gang will not soon forget. She works hard in the tiniest galley preparing thoughtful, well presented gourment food without it being too fancy. It was a real treat to be surprised everyday with the question and answer of ´Gee.....What do you think she´s making for lunch or dinner?´ My family and I are real foodies and truly appreciated the labor of love she put into each meal. The whole food and dining experience was simply sophisticated and far exceeded our expectations.

I could go on and on raving about this trip. Simply a perfect 10. We can´t wait to sail with Doug and Val again, and thanks for your terrific guidance and answering my dozens of questions. It was the most memorable birthday for me! ~ Marc

What a fabulous & unforgettable trip ~ certainly made turning ´60´ a lot easier. We will treasure the memories we´ve made until we meet again! Much love, Myriam, Marc, Max, Mara, Stuie & Judy

You guys were the most fun ever - both are you are now part of the memories that will last forever ~ Stuie

Excellent trip - fantastic attention to detail made it all so wonderful. With many thanks, and see you soon! ~ Raymond

Leaving Gambit this morning after 8 nights aboard being spoiled by the best hosts ever: Doug & Val. Took hundreds of pictures with my brother, Raymond who invited me all the way from London! ~ Joyce

What a great adventure with you guys! Thanks so much for offering to let us crew the rest of the season so we don´t have to go back to Iowa!!! The stories of your adventures are awe-inspiring....the places you´ve been paint a vivid picture.
Thank you so much for sharing with us. Sharing your love of this place, sharing your kindness and laughter and sharing these memories ~ Mick and Rhonda

Another wonderful trip, we cannot thank you enough for your kindness and hospitality. Enojoyed every second. Beautiful beaches, gorgeous sunrises and sunsets...until next time ~ Jill and Bill

The only problem on Gambit is the time passes too quickly. We loved every speedy, sun filled minute. Thank you for another week of extraordinary hospitality, laughs, puzzles, delicious food, and left, right, centre. Much love until next time ~ Frank and Meg

Thanks for an amazing week ~ pain killers, red wine, panic attacks, square hair, Fred the barracuda (bigger than my sister!), epic snorkeling, left, right, centre.....Ginny, Kath, Lori, Connor, Jason

Thank you so much for making our Christmas unforgettable! So many fun adventures with Doug, fueled by fun and delicious food from Val. Didn´t quite finish that Woodford, but loved the ´bubbles´ above and below the water

I had the best snorkel trip I have ever done, at The Indians! The water was beautiful and so is the boat. Thank you so much Gambit. We come from Sioux Falls and we don´t get this kind of weather ...it is amazing. PS - Thank you Gambit Santa for the Christmas presents

Thank you so much for spending your Christmas with us. Thanks for the amazing activities we´ve done.Thank you for the outstanding food. Thanks for treating us like family

This was planned as a special family event. The crew made it an especially GREAT event ~ 60th Anniversary with all 7 family members enjoying the whole experience from 80 year old senior to 20 year old grandson. I´m sure this trip will remain in our conversations for a long time. Thanks for a great trip.

Food fantastic, route amazing, crew ...was the bonding feature!!! ~ Ed

Your hospitality , knowledge and great comradery made this a trip of a lifetime. Our family will be re-living all the experiences you two have granted us for years to come. I personally will cherish every anchorage and story you two let us be a part of.
Soooo many thanks. Now back to life in the rat race …….. may our wakes cross again !!!
E.W. and Family

Once again you have raised the bar for any future vacations we take! Sailing in the Grenadines was fabulous, the anchorages beautiful and the food delicious. Above all that, is the hospitality and friendship you so easily share with us. Thank you for the opportunity to scuba again... that and the snorkeling was glorious - so many beautiful fish and coral reefs..... I could go on and on ~ Ken and Jean

This 2nd vacation with the tow of you and Gambit has been simply marvelous. We always feel welcome and cared for every single minute. Your desire to make our experiences personal and fun were apparent and appreciated. Thank you for being you! Until we meet again.... ~ Mark and Cheryl

You two sure make things look easy! However, we know the work you do is far from easy! You truly have made this week in the Grenadines the trip of a lifetime. We have made so many memories and experienced new things (scuba diving) thanks to you. Thank you for teaching us to truly enjoy life and to take the opportunity to do new things. We will see you both soon ~ Dory and Josh

What another amazing adventure we had again this year! Thank you for the love, laughter, beautiful views, stories and amazing food. And thanks for adding on the special dive trips for the boys. We love you and con not wait until our next adventure ~ Frank and Valorie

Hard to believe this is our fourth time on board. Words can never express how happy my heart is with my family and you both here in the BVI. The beauty of the islands, the laughter, delicious meals, under water adventures.....the list goes on and on!Thank you for spoiling us up! Thank you for all the fun island hopping to make sure everyone gets ´their experience´! From quiet coves to Soggy´s, we covered it all! Thank you! Thank you!

You two are such an inspiration to me, the way you live and enjoy the beauty of nature and the world is enlightening. I love meeting people like you who have adventurous souls and genuine hearts. The last 8 days have been calming, healing and brought my connection to the ocean closer. Val, thank you for the nourishing food and treating us like family. Dougie, thanks for taking me back under the sea and being patient with me diving. I hope we meet again someday. Obrigada, Thank you, Danke.

It was so amazing to sail with you again and though we miss Katlyn, we love Gambit now too! The food, hospitality and friendships feel like we are one big family. Thank you for putting up with us and we will see you again without kids! (PS - we left the kids in the locker with the scuba gear - train your new deck hands well!)

Thank you so much for an amazing week! You exceeded all expectations - the food, the sailing, all the laughs. You are both wonderful people and I will always be grateful to Carol for introducing us - Mo

Cruising through the BVI´s was a truly wonderful experience especially having you to take such good care of us. Your warmth and genuine interest in making sure we were never left wanting for a single thing was very much noted and appreciated! Val - the food! On my, you can create wonders in that kitchen! I´m still thinking of the grilled tuna! Captain ´Ron´ - you managed to keep one step ahead of us with the beer and wine cooler - not an easy feat with us Canadians. Until we meet again... - Kim

Thank you Val and Doug for your heart-felt hospitality. So many great memories with our buddies and with you. Great boat, great food, thank you so much - Karen & Lonnie

What an amazing trip! You both have such a warm and welcoming way. Any nervousness about a week at sea were quickly washed away from the get go. The many adventures will stay in our hearts for years to come. All meals were delicious - even with one of the most picky children - Val made wonderful meals and snacks. You both have such patience and experience that Mike and I truly appreciate! Thanks for helping make this our best spring vacation.

Thank you so much for welcoming us into your home and showing us an amazing week! We had the best time! We appreciate the co-ordination with Starfish so we could enjoy our holidays with all our family and friends. The food was awesome, the sailing fantastic, the stories unforgettable. We feel we have made friends for life and hope to return soon for more adventures on Gambit.

- We had an amazing time! thank you so much for everything - your planning and replanning was excellent and we got to do everything that was important to us. The dives were wonderful! We love the BVI´s, Gambit, and you guys - we didn´t know that we would make new friends. Hopefully Val creates a cookbook - we would be the first in line to purchase! The games and visiting were so much fun, thank you for everything
- Thank you so much for the amazing food, the amazing dives (loved seeing the sharks!), and the amazing birthday cake. We enjoyed the jokes and learning new games. Thank you for opening up your home to us - we cannot thank you enough for going above and beyond!

Words cannot describe our sailing experience. We have just experienced one of our best holidays ever. This is our first sailing adventure and we are so grateful that we were able to share it on Gambit. Doug and Val, you could not be more kind and generous sharing your home with our family. We could not imagine a better crew. Val, thank you so much for the wonderful food. Who would think that you could prepare such excellent meals in a small kitchen on a boat. We hope to see you again soon.

***Many thanks for sharing your lovely home with us on Thanksgiving Holiday. The charter was magnificent and the memories will last forever.
***Thank you so much for an amazing vacation. Getting to know you and meeting your children was a treat. Thank you for all the great memories.
***Thank you for such a fantastic charter. The wake boarding, snorkeling and sightseeing were beyond my expectations. But most of all the food was out of this world. I can´t wait to sail with you again.
***Thank you both so much 4 your hospitality and having so much fun with us. We won´t forget y´all.

Cape Doug and Admiral Val! What an incredible journey you led us through. Thank you for the hospitality, the stories and the delicious meals. We will never forget the turtles, the sunsets and the island hopping! You made the adventure on the Gambit. We have had the fortune of some really fun and adventurous vacations, but this is right up there as one of the best. Thanks for the memories, they will be shared!!

We have had an absolutely fantastic four days on your lovely boat. A big big thank you from each of us for fabulous food, sailing, snorkeling, fun, knowledge and games. We´ve really appreciated your attention to detail, gracious hosting and the wealth of knowledge you have passed on.

The boat is extremely luxurious and beautifully outfitted and decorated. Bedrooms are roomy and peaceful, bathrooms modern and pretty. The boat is beautiful under sail. The communal areas are huge - plenty of space to relax without crowding and so much deck space for everyone to choose their favorite nook.
The meals were truly restaurant quality-delicious and beautifully presented - with wines to compliment. Afternoon cocktails would appear miraculously after a day of snorkeling and exploring little bays and coves.
But by far the best part of chartering Gambit was the wonderful duo of captain/first mate- Doug and Val. Two fine sailors and hosts who really care about the sort of vacation their guests have.
They listened to our needs and wants and tailored the most wonderful week of watery fun filled activities and sights- knowing that we wanted to do nothing more than relax with our families and have lots of new experiences.

They planned each day with us the night before - and gave us the time to do nothing if that´s what we wanted - plus their stories of life on the sea were entrancing and we shared many a laugh with these wonderfully easy going South Africans.

My family and I would vacation on the Gambit again - and plan to !

Just a quote to let you both know how much wonderment you brought to the Pursell and Keane families. thank you for taking such an interest each day in educating us, exploring with us, and becoming our friends. Val and Doug, You made this a trip we will never forget! Loved the food, the games and the time getting to know you! God bless. The Pursells

We go back 10lbs heavier - thanks to Val
100 times wiser - thanks to Doug
and 100 000 times happier - thanks to you both!
This was our best vacation ever! Thank you so so much for all your care and attention, love and laughter, and friendship during our vacation. You helped us make memories we will never forget!

Until next time! We leave with the fondest memories! And of course we also leave 10lbs heavier because of Val´s cooking. We truly love you like family and have no words to express our gratitude! Have a wonderful holiday off together, and Lord willing we will see you next season!

Third time was a charm! After two previous boat cancelled, you saved the day, and how lucky we are that you did! We could not have asked for a more perfect week - delicious beautifully served meals, gorgeous anchorages, a multitude of fun activities, rummikub, snorkeling adventures, and best of all....giving Daniel the ongoing good-natured ribbing. You are the best. So glad to now count you both as friends. Until next time! - The Bonds

Thank you for always going the extra mile, like taking me to the Belgium soccer game, teaching me new card games, and overall giving me an amazing time - Emily

To say we had a wonderful trip is an understatement! There are no words to describe how amazing our week in the BVI was and Doug and Val were absolutely phenomenal! Life changing trip with so many wise words shared with Doug and Val - Dory

Doug and Val - fate brought us together for our very first visit to the BVI. We are blessed to come away from this trip knowing you as ´crew´ but as friends too. We wish you the very best - you have your life priorities in perfect alignment. Until we meet again - the Bergmans

It was providence that brought you to us....a perfect combination for fun and relaxation. We had a great week with fabulous food and wonderful snorkeling. Thank you so much for EVERYTHING!! - the Richards

Thank you so much for sharing your home with us for the week! We had such an amazing trip. Our kids are already asking us to plan our next trip - Kristie & Andy

This was an amazing trip! Thanks for the hospitality and being so sweet and patient with the girls! Your boat is so beautiful! - Stephanie & Bill

I had an absolutely amazing time, the best trip ever! Mrs Val was the best cook and thank you for teaching us Rummikub. And thank you Doug for teaching us card tricks and all the other cool stuff about the islands, water and more! And for having so much fun with us! This trip was AWESOME, I will never forget it! - Bailey

When we thought about returning to Katlyn in March 2017 to explore the new area Doug and Val are sailing - the BVIs - we all agreed that this time we´d have to stay longer and hence booked without a minute of hesitation a two-weeks cruise with them. And again, and even more, we felt at home the moment Doug picked us up at the airport. Again, we spent the most wonderful and relaxed days on board - being active with swimming, snorkling, stand-up paddling and going for hikes, but also being lazy on board, having drinks together and of course enjoying again all the awesome meals that lovely Val prepared for us. We loved to sit together in the evenings to chat and listen to the stories Doug and Val could tell from their long sailing and travelling experience and truly felt like staying with friends. After two weeks it was even harder to say goodbye than the first time, but we´ll always cherish the wonderful memories of this amazing time and keep all of it deep in our hearts.
Sailing the Caribbean with Doug and Val is a great holiday experience that is impossible to match!

As an almost full-time traveler, this has been a trip of a lifetime for me! It was made so by the excellent personalities of the crew - Val and Doug Fairfield. They are self motivated to make your charter a very successful one! You cannot find better people to work with!

Doug emphasizes safety measures, leads various hikes, and keeps up on various ships maintenance work. Val´s meals are done from scratch and are very tasty. The boat is in outstanding shape.

We boarded your beautiful Katlyn as strangers and instantly became friends and family! We are so thankful God chose for our paths to cross! You are both beautiful and there are no words to express our thanks for such an incredible vacation. You exceeded our expectations in every way! Please keep in touch!

Where to begin?! Thank you both for everything. So much thought and consideration was put towards making sure our trip was perfect. We can’t thank you enough for the ‘hands on’ experience. The sailing, snorkeling, the food and overall hospitality was top notch. As a stated in our thank you card to you both, we thank you for the wonderful family memories that will last a lifetime. Please contact us should you ever be in our state. You always have a place to stay. Hugs

Thank you for making our 50th Wedding Anniversary so amazing! Katlyn is such a special boat and we will always remember our time with you. From quiet times to sundowners and Val’s amazing meals – all I can say is WOW! We loved watching your teamwork, Captain Doug and Val’s skills at guiding us to a buoy. Please come to south Carolina – free golf! ~ Ray and Pam

“Beautiful waters, great sailing days, super snorkeling, baths, bubbly pool, 5 star breakfast, lunch and dinners, snacks, refreshing drinks, sweet Katlyn, and the manner in which you served us….all well beyond measure!! And yet you offered us even more! Your love for your country, the love of your family, your desire to treat all with dignity and honor, and the obvious commitment, respect and love for each other! We feel fortunate and blessed to have crossed paths with you two! Our hope is to see you again. If you are ever near Texas…..(golf included)! ~ Nawanda and Dean

Incredible sights, amazing memories and 10lbs extra…..all this we gained on this trip! Thank you so much for your hospitality! Your yacht is delightful, your stories were so entertaining, and the food superb! Always remember the tramps on the tramp and the horse on the bow! We will never forget the great times we had on this trip and look forward to doing it again in the Grenadines someday soon!
Dana – The tramp on the tramp
Jesselyn – The best hooker (buoy!) on the tramp
Chris – The Horse
Andrea – the one who didn’t know a lamb was a sheep

Words cannot begin to express what a beautiful, marvelous time we had aboard Katlyn! Despite rough seas, lost airline luggage and the appearance of ‘Murphy’ a few times, you made our voyage unforgettable! The food was superb (thank you Val), the drinks were always flowing (thank you Doug). Our conversations meant a lot – you are truly the models for the best hostess and captain – I am sure you taught your 2 beautiful children the same. I am happy we shared our card games – that was such fun! Thank you, God bless you both and your family – have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – I am sure we will be back ~ Bob and Rose

Amazing trip! It was a time to remember for sure! I loved the stories you guys have. You are amazing people and I am positive you will have a delightful life counting backwards from 80. Thank you for introducing me to new foods and drinks, and completely superb places like the pools. I learned a lot within these few short days and experienced such beautiful things with great people. Thank you so so much ~ Jordan

All of us were for the first time on a catamaran cruise and for the first time in the Caribbean when we first boarded Katlyn in April 2015 - and we were completely and utterly overwhelmed. Not only by the outstanding natural beauty of the Grenadine islands, but also by the kind, personal and in every respect exceptional hospitality of our lovely hosts Doug and Val, who made us feel at home from the very first minute and made every day another day in paradise! Each day, Doug untiringly selected most beautiful islands and beaches for us to explore, took us to mindblowing snorkling spots (we´ll never, never forget Tobago Cays!), and Val spoiled us with the most amazing meals she produced with a lot of love and creativity in the tiny galley on board Katlyn.
The week we spent on board exceeded all (already high) expectations, and we were literally in tears when we had to leave much too soon.

Thank you very much for your care and all the unforgettable moments we spent with you. We hope we can sail together again soon for new adventures. And we have experienced the best food in all of Guadeloupe!!!

Thank you for a wonderful adventure! Couldn´t have been better. You are both great people separately, and together do a fantastic job! Blessings to your future plans with weddings and travels. Luck and love in all your future endeavors - until w meet again.
The Sharbroughs.