Pono Charters

Welcome to Pono Charters

“Island Time” can be for you or against you, it is your choice in the end. Live by this clock and you have a head start to living an “Island Life”. Your mission is to enjoy this world and relax. Sailing Pono makes lifetime memories with lifelong friends.

Captain Jim “Homer” Holm

Captain “Homer” has been sailing professionally since 1976 on all manner of vessels in a variety of locations globally. He and his wife Claudia have traveled extensively and are delighted to be in the Caribbean Islands as often as possible.

Sailing Vessel “Pono”

Pono is a Hawaiian word commonly rendered as "righteousness". For instance, the Hawaii state motto: Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono or "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness". We chose the name “Pono” as an inspiration for ourselves to take care of the Ocean which sustains life on our beautiful planet.

Pono is a 60’ Fountaine Pajot, Eleuthera, sailing cat with a 5 cabin 5 head charter layout. Pono has fully found galley, day fridge, storage fridge and deep freezer. We have a rail mounted gas BBQ, and cockpit dining for 10 persons. There is interior dining for 8 at the saloon table and reading nook and coffee table seating for four more inside.

Pono makes headway with or without wind on (2) 200 HP Toyota diesel engines, spinning 4 bladed folding propellers. Pono was recently fit with 39” tall railings surrounding the main deck for additional safety.

Pono can take parties up to 12 on day trips (to 8hrs) to our favorite spots and back in time for dinner.

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Pono Activities

Pono’s assortment of toys for tropical water entertainment include:

Snorkel gear of every size
2 carbon paddle boards
2 inflatable paddle boards
10’ longboard surfboard
sit on top Kayak
reef friendly sunscrean to loan or sell

For those inclined to recline with a cool beverage we have:

2 hammocks
2 beanbag chair
inflatable lounge sausage
sunshade
sun hats

Pono Entertainment

Pono has over a hundred video selections to choose from, an assortment of book themes including history, comedy, nautical pursuits, stargazing or science, and of course having time for meaningful conversation is all to rare these days.

Diving

Sail Pono can connect any or all of your party with a certified Scuba School for safe, professional diving instruction and guide service at almost any point in your adventure.

Your Yacht awaits your arrival

On overnight charters Pono can meet you upon your arrival. Your cabin is comfortable and spacious, with your own private head and shower. Your favorite beverage and a snack are only moments away at our fully equipped galley and bar. When your entire party is on board we have a safety and planning briefing and if time permits we head to our first anchorage before the afternoon light is gone.

Planning Time Aboard

Weather and the crowds can dictate variations on a plan. Each location has its own attractions, distractions and peak times. In calm spots the paddle boards are popular and snorkeling can define a destination. In some places the bars are legendary and we discuss options based on the prevailing weather for the period ahead. Safety and comfort are our top considerations. If the Captain determines it is not safe to continue a voyage for any reason your unused time will be refunded or rescheduled.

Being Our Best

Pono is at its best with a small group on a leisurely pace exploring on their own schedule. Opportunity does not always adhere to a time table so we remain as flexible as possible to suit your desires and schedule. Call us to discuss your ideas and give us a chance to bring them to life.

Pono Charters Rate

If you are interested in chartering Pono, send us an email at ponocharters@gmail.com and we will get back to you with current rates and specials.

Quote and special offers

Charter Trips and Ammenities

Day Sails

Pono can take parties up to 12 on day trips to our favorite spots and back in time for dinner. We have refreshments and snacks available all day. Once we cast off, RELAX while we set sail to one of our favorite snorkeling spots. Other departure, lunch/chef available by request.

Overnight Sails

Overnight trips are limited to 6 or fewer passengers. For larger parties we are happy to assist locating additional boats or a larger vessel to meet your needs. Crew are available to assist with meal planning, prep and cleanup but are not personal chefs. We can hire a chef for you upon request.

Food choices include breads and spreads, hot or cold cereals, coffee, juices, fresh fruit, cold cut meats cheese and salads. There are always snacks, cold beverages and libations at any hour.

Dinners are usually discussed ahead. It is common to visit renowned or favorite restaurants on multi island tours and sometimes the evening meal plans change. It can entertaining for each guest to take ownership during the voyage and lead the planning and execution of every aspect of a meal.

All charters include all cruising permits and park fees, Gratuities are typically between 10 and 20% are not included.

Special Requests

If guests have specific desires for particular foods or liquors we will make arrangements and you can pick up your order upon arrival at your yacht.

Time Trades

We are open to discussing value trade charters as well. There are no guarantees but we assign great weight to the value of unique experiences. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Contact Us

For Inquiries and Reservations please email ponocharters@gmail.com.

We love to share our love of island life. Take your shoes off, pick up a cold glass, cue up some island music and relax.

Pono is a Hawaiian word that translates to doing what is right.

We seek to follow that path.