Catamaran "Independence" Sailing and Whale Watching Charters in Vava'u,
Kingdom of Tonga

Sailing Catamaran "Independence"

Independence, a St. Francis 44 catamaran launched in 2001, has been fitted out to the highest standards expressly for the owner of St. Francis, Duncan Leithbridge. She was the show boat for the Miami boat show and easily won the prestigious Cape to Rio race. She truly sets the standard for gracious living, fast sailing and memorable experiences.

Interior

The interior of Independence is finished and impeccably maintained in holly. She has two ensuite queen cabins each with sit down bathtubs! As well as two double ensuite cabins. Each cabin is equipped with two reading lights and fans, although you would hardly need the fans due to the magnificent ventilation throughout the boat!

The main saloon has an HD plasma tv along with an extensive collection of dvds, 10 CD Changer, I-pod plug-in station and electronic Boat Music Library.

Another great feature on Independence is the low swim platform which makes it especially easy to get in and out of the water or on and off the dinghy. And for those of you that enjoy fishing it is a perfect fishing platform. We are always excited about throwing fresh caught fish on the bbq!

You can find a welcoming breeze and plenty of shade in the exceptionally large cockpit. The bimini and side curtains provide extra shade and comfort for those wanting to kick back in the shade and read a book. Or you can grab a cool drink from the cockpit drinks fridge to take with you while you sunbathe comfortably on the huge trampoline. There is no shortage of places to relax onboard Independence. If you would like to go to the beach, the crew would be happy to set up all chairs, shade and cool drinks. Hor's dourves on the beach for sundowners???...no problem! Relax, enjoy and let us pamper you.

Kids Onboard Independence

Although everyone becomes a kid on vacation, kids of ALL ages love Independence!!! Whether they are swimming, snorkeling, jumping off the boat, collecting firewood for a beach bonfire(and spooky stories told by the captain!!!), making shell jewelry or just searching for treasures on the beach. One thing is for certain, they will never be bored! Your family will have endless days filled with laughter until it is time to fall into bed at night. Of course nothing is more soothing than the sound of waves lapping against the hull. Leave behind the stress of everyday life, come experience the natural treasures Tonga has to offer, the islands, reefs, culture and music.

DINING

Melinda Sea Adventures charters are renowned for our excellent meals. We serve a fusion of Tongan, Western and Asian cuisine with emphasis on healthy fresh fruits, vegetables and salads. We do not have a set menu, we discuss our guests preferences and tailor our cuisine to their tastes.

Breakfasts
Every morning coffee, tea, juice and a fresh fruit platter will be set out.
A cooked breakfast will be served when everyone is ready. This might be scrambled eggs, omelets, or pancakes. Or breakfast can be more Asian style or European as guests prefer.

Lunches
We often have lunch on-the-go while we are sailing, or we may stop at an island for lunch. Homemade soups, green salads, potato salads and sandwiches such as crab with dill and arugula are served.

Hors D'Oeurves
Fresh salsa with chips
Garlic and dill dip with crackers
Bruschetta with basil and tomato

Dinners
Fresh caught snapper fillets with green beans and breadfruit in coconut milk
Spicy steak or chicken fajitas with salsa, guacomole and pumpkin soup
Curried potatoes with Mahi mahi steaks and salad