Personal impression from Steve

An adventure and experience of a lifetime

Our recent catamaran vacation aboard the Mahana was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I contacted Lutz, we began planning, everything was handled with professionalism and care and complete transparency. Communication was prompt, and every question we had was answered quickly and clearly, giving us full confidence before we even set foot on deck. Provisioning was simple and Lutz ensured we had everything we asked for, meals were planned and dietary requirements where taken into consideration.

We boarded in Bonaire and began our journey around the Caribbean, sailing first to the serene shores of Klein Bonaire, then to some fantastic dive locations before sailing to the remote and stunning Klein Curaçao, where we enjoyed an evening we will never forget before finally arriving in Curaçao where our adventure came to a close.

Lutz planned the route with precision, adjusting to wind conditions in real time to ensure smooth sailing and maximum enjoyment. His deep knowledge of sailing, the sea and his calm leadership made us feel safe and in expert hands at all times. That said Lutz is extremely personable, his energy and boundless enthusiasm oozes out of him and we had some fantastic laughs along the way.

The Mahana itself was immaculate. Every surface gleamed, every detail was cared for, and the overall condition of the vessel reflected true pride in ownership. Lutz was incredibly responsive to the needs and requests of everyone on board. He made shore leave seamless and was always open to adjusting plans to suit the group’s interests. His leadership style was inclusive and team-oriented, encouraging participation in sailing maneuvers and explaining each step with clarity and as curious beginners, he made you feel like part of the crew at all times.

Safety was clearly a top priority. Lutz delivered a thorough safety briefing on day one, walking us through emergency procedures and equipment. The Mahana was equipped with all the safety equipment, all in excellent condition. Even when we encountered a minor technical issue mid-voyage, Lutz handled it with calm efficiency, resolving it quickly and keeping the atmosphere relaxed and positive.

Aida our hostess brought warmth, creativity, and care to every moment. Her meals were consistently outstanding, one evening stood out in particular—she prepared a freshly caught snapper, scaling and filleting it herself before serving it up perfectly seasoned and cooked. It was hands down the best fish we’ve ever eaten. Her attention to detail and genuine hospitality turned every meal into a highlight.

When my wife experienced seasickness, Aida was quick to offer remedies and comfort and checking in regularly. Her empathy and attentiveness made a big difference and helped everyone feel at ease.

We have so many special memories from this vacation, sleeping out on the deck under the stars, nestled into the netting at the bow. From stargazing late into the night to waking with the first light of sunrise, it was peaceful, surreal, and unforgettable.

En route to Curaçao, a pod of dolphins joined us for nearly 15 minutes. Watching them leap and glide alongside the Mahana was pure magic—an awe-inspiring reminder of the beauty and spontaneity of life at sea.

This trip was more than just a vacation—it was a beautifully orchestrated experience led by two exceptional people. Lutz and Aida brought professionalism, heart, and a sense of adventure and fun to every moment. We left with unforgettable memories, new skills, and a deep appreciation for life at sea. If you’re considering a sailing trip, look no further than the Mahana. It was truly an adventure and experience of a lifetime. 🙂Read more