Charter One Yachts

I started out having a wonderful time at the open bar across from the Grand Floridian yacht. They had wonderful hors d’oervres and anything you could want to drink. I loved it!
Then we boarded the boat. I had a nice meal as the ship went on a short trip. Unfortunately, the trip for me went straight downhill. The Grand Floridian had nothing to do with it, but I became gravely seasick. The staff were unbelievably kind and helpful as I went on a horrible journey of nausea that seemed to last weeks long.
I can’t forget how sweet and wonderful the ship’s employees were to me. I don’t usually get seasick, but this time it was horrendous. The staff offered suggestions and got me through the ride until I left the boat grateful to see land.
If I hadn’t been sick, I’m sure it would have been a great trip. Thanks again to the wonderful crew!

Clyde and I went to the christening of the new yacht Grand Floridian. It was docked at its new home across from the Diplomat Resort and Spa. It’s more like a ship then a yacht. I think it holds 550 people.
The party started at 5:30 pm on the patio next to the yacht. They had an open bar with beer, wine, champagne, and cocktails. They also had a cappuccino bar. Servers passed a few hors d’oeurvres and their signature drinks made of pineapple juice, orange juice, cranberry juice, and rum. It was very delicious. There was a stage set up with a great band playing.
At a little after 6:00 pm there was a short program including a few speeches. Champagne bottles were broken for the christening and we were given glasses of champagne to toast the new yacht. After that we were invited onboard.
We entered the yacht on the first floor. It was beautifully furnished with comfortable couches. We walked up the stairs to the second floor where we found several tables laden with food. First I ate a delicious paella. It was full of chicken and sea food. The next table had two chefs preparing chicken or shrimp stir fry with rice and/​or noodles. The chefs were so nice and the stir fry was delicious. In the center of the room was a long table with rolls and butter, salad, asparagus, and round roasted potatoes. At the head of the table a chef was slicing pork roast. There was also a table with assorted cheeses and crackers. The food was all perfectly cooked, the pork was tender and lean, and it all tasted great. There was plenty of tables and chairs, high top tables, and couches. How nice to be able to eat sitting down.
On the third floor was a table with all kinds of sushi and an ice sculpture with cocktail shrimp at the bottom. More tables and chairs made for a comfortable meal.
There were several bars at various places on the yacht, so you didn’t have to go far to get a drink. Near the end of the trip the crew brought out trays of desserts. There were several different desserts to choose from. I had chocolate covered strawberries and a little cup of crème brûlée. I also had a chocolate and raspberry dessert. I don’t know what it’s called but it was delicious.
The cruise itself was very smooth. If I didn’t see the scenery changing when I looked out the window I wouldn’t have known we were moving. I probably should have gone out on deck to appreciate the view but it was a choice between all that food that was inside and the outside view. The food won.
This was definitely a five star experience, but I deducted one star. I called Charter One Yachts a few times trying to get information about the event. Each time I called a woman answered and I felt like I was annoying her. I thought my questions were fairly simple. I asked where to board the yacht, where was parking, and would they be serving food. She was not friendly and I never got a straight answer.
The Grand Floridian is a yacht made to host parties, weddings, and special events. The food and drinks were delicious. The crew was wonderful. It was a lot of fun.

AVOID AT ALL COSTS
Ruined my wedding after party! We splurged on a yacht for the after party to our Saturday night wedding. At over $ 2000/​hour you would think the speakers would work! We rented the yacht starting at 11pm. Make no mistake, this was intended to be an after-​hours dance party! They knew this when we met with them months before.
As planned ahead of time with Charter One, we came prepared with our playlists. They had NO SOUND SYSTEM. Infuriating. I find it hard to believe they didn’t know this ahead of time. And if they didn’t, then that should clue you in to the how well they maintain these boats.
To make matters worse, they FLAT OUT IGNORED me when I reached out to talk to them the next day. Ignored. A luxury rental company who ignores their clients after they get the money… classy.
PS: smelly cabins