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Author Archive for Nicholas Dean

Nicholas Dean is Managing Partner and Co-founder of global full-service superyacht brokerage company Ocean Independence, who specialise in yacht sales, charter, new build and management. With a passion for sailing from an early age, Nicholas started his career in the British marine industry, progressing into the large yacht market 32 years ago. His trusted expertise and knowledge combined with exceptional insight have generated a global reputation for excellence. One of the fastest-growing companies in the luxury-yachting sector, Ocean Independence operates the largest crewed charter fleet in the world and a team that combines more years of marine expertise than any other brokerage company globally. Founded in 2005, Ocean Independence now has approximately 115 employees, operating from 15 offices around the world, speaking 24 different languages.

Island-hopping in St Vincent and the Grenadines

By Nicholas Dean on Jan 19, 2021 in Caribbean, Cruises & Boat Travel, Regions, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Speciality Travel

Consisting of over 32 islands and cays, only nine of which are inhabited, St Vincent and the Grenadines have been appropriately dubbed ‘the jewels of the Caribbean’. Famed for secluded beaches, crystal-clear water, and sublime dive sites, most of this sprawling archipelago is only accessible by boat, making it an ideal spot to take a […]

Serene sailing in the Seychelles

By Nicholas Dean on Dec 26, 2020 in Africa, Cruises & Boat Travel, Regions, Seychelles, Speciality Travel

Located to the north east of Madagascar and strewn with World Heritage Sites, the granite archipelago of the Seychelles clusters together approximately 115 inner and outer islands. While the more remote outer islands can be reached with a local guide or specifically trained captain on board, most visited are the inner islands, including well-known Praslin, […]

Natural wonder in Antarctica

By Nicholas Dean on Nov 13, 2020 in Antarctic, Cruises & Boat Travel, Polar Regions, Regions, Speciality Travel

Achingly beautiful and wildly pristine, remote Antarctica is unlike any other destination on earth and defies the imagination. The land is a vast white icescape, dotted with soaring mountains untouched by mankind and blessed with wildlife flourishing in this snowy enclave. Take time to marvel at the many wonders of this incredible peninsula where ice-filled […]

Experience the Kimberley, Australia by yacht

By Nicholas Dean on Oct 08, 2020 in Australia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Oceania, Regions, Speciality Travel

Travelling along the north-western edge of Australia offers an introduction to a raw, wild coastline dotted with some 2,600 beautiful islands. The isolated and rugged Kimberley coast is often referred to as one of Australia’s great natural wonders; this never-ending natural haven of crystalline waters, white sands, pounding waterfalls, and sandstone gorges is guaranteed to […]

Revel in la dolce vita on the Amalfi Coast

By Nicholas Dean on Sep 02, 2020 in Cruises & Boat Travel, Europe, Italy, Regions, Speciality Travel, Western Europe

Well-known for scenery, history, cuisine and style, the famous stretch of coastline along the Amalfi Coast is blessed with warm sunshine, fascinating culture and beautiful beaches. Tracing the shoreline of this UNESCO heritage site by yacht allows full appreciation of this extraordinary destination. Not only will the views be even more spectacular, but a yacht […]

Idyllic sailing in the Greek Sporades

By Nicholas Dean on Aug 08, 2020 in Europe, Greece, Regions, Western Europe

An archipelago of outstanding beauty, the Sporades are scattered along the eastern coast of mainland Greece, with only four of the 24 isles permanently inhabited: Alonnisos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros. Rugged and charming, these cruising grounds deliver peaceful serenity whilst sailing amongst some truly breath-taking island scenery. This is an area rich in natural splendour […]

‘Kia ora’ yachting in the Bay of Islands

By Nicholas Dean on Jul 21, 2020 in Attractions, Cruises & Boat Travel, Going Out, New Zealand, Oceania, Regions, Speciality Travel

One of the ultimate ways to explore the beautiful New Zealand coastline is by yacht, where stunning islands are scattered over azure seas and charming seaside towns are immersed in history. Here, silvery beaches line contrastingly rocky coasts, while pods of dolphins play offshore amidst a wealth of marine life. This destination delivers a wealth […]

The irresistible charm of yachting on Croatia’s Istrian Riviera

By Nicholas Dean on Jun 20, 2020 in Croatia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Eastern Europe, Europe, Regions, Speciality Travel

On the north western coast of Croatia, the Istrian Riviera is an exceptional region sprinkled with charming villages and national parks where a blend of rich history and vibrant culture thrive. As Croatia remained relatively unaffected by the Coronavirus crisis and has been one of the first countries to reopen to yachting and international travel, […]

Travel inspiration: Yacht charter in Baja California, Mexico

By Nicholas Dean on May 03, 2020 in Cruises & Boat Travel, Mexico, North America, Regions, Speciality Travel

Famous for its stunning shorelines, fine weather and delicious food, the west coast of Mexico has its very own magic and is a great choice for yachting enthusiasts. From Baja California down to Guadalajara, you will find some of the most fascinating spots in the Pacific providing an excellent cruising ground for visiting yachts. Expect […]

A Caribbean getaway to the ABC Islands

By Nicholas Dean on Apr 05, 2020 in Aruba, Caribbean, Cruises & Boat Travel, Netherlands Antilles, Regions, Speciality Travel

Although there are a range of global travel restrictions currently in place, this doesn’t mean you need to put your travel plans permanently on hold. To the contrary, now is the time to dream and look ahead at fresh opportunities. What better place to offer destination inspiration than the stunning Caribbean ABC Islands? The three […]

Yacht charter in the Lofoten Islands

By Nicholas Dean on Mar 11, 2020 in Europe, Norway, Regions, Western Europe

Atmospheric and spectacular, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are interconnected by winding roads and jaw-dropping fjords on the Norwegian Sea. Renowned for the welcoming locals and traditional fishing villages that dot the landscape in shades of red and yellow, this is a magical destination for a yacht charter amongst some incredible scenery. During summer, experience […]

Sail the Saronic Islands of Greece

By Nicholas Dean on Feb 12, 2020 in Cruises & Boat Travel, Europe, Greece, Regions, Speciality Travel, Western Europe

From the twinkling blue sea to the blissfully relaxed pace of island life, the Saronic Islands of Greece are, quite simply, very special. Enjoy a warm welcome at whitewashed tavernas, stroll endless beaches and relish the calm. For history fans, this is a treasure trove of incredible ancient culture, where alluring ruins exude spellbinding appeal. […]

Sicily: a yachting haven

By Nicholas Dean on Jan 24, 2020 in Attractions, Europe, Going Out, Italy, Regions, Western Europe

Bursting with sensory delights, a yacht charter itinerary encompassing Sicily and its neighbouring islands is an absolute treat. Trace the curves of this spectacular coastline to soak up stunning views across emerald waters or head ashore, where a warm Italian welcome awaits. Take time to inhale the lingering fragrance of lemon groves, tantalise your taste […]

Travel beyond

By Nicholas Dean on Dec 29, 2019 in Antarctic, Argentina, Chile, Polar Regions, Regions, South America

The dawning of a New Year brings the opportunity to consider a host of exciting travel plans for 2020. Whether impassioned by a spirit for adventure or a long-term wanderlust, exploratory experiences are becoming a bucket list headline. Far flung destinations, perhaps not previously considered, are becoming far more accessible and a voyage of discovery […]

Island-hopping in Croatia

By Nicholas Dean on Nov 14, 2019 in Croatia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Eastern Europe, Europe, Regions, Speciality Travel

Seeking relaxed tranquillity and a touch of romance? Explore the wonders of beautiful Croatia, where picture-perfect beaches, azure waters and quaint seaside towns form a charming distraction from the rigors of everyday life. Bursting with countless natural gems, the coastline of Croatia brings balmy days cruising between verdant isles as the terracotta rooftops of medieval towns […]

The family-friendly Maddalenas

By Nicholas Dean on Oct 11, 2019 in Croatia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Eastern Europe, Europe, Family Travel, Leisure Travel, Regions, Speciality Travel

For anyone yachting around Corsica and Sardinia with children, the Maddalena Islands are something of a concealed treasure. Although the prime summer months of July and August can still be busy, outside these times the islands tend to be quieter than mainland Sardinia. For parents this is a bonus, giving a certain degree of freedom […]