The water may be blue, but Island Yacht Charters, Inc. has gone green. The St. Thomas-based bareboat charter company recently received the 2010 National EPA Environmental Quality Award in recognition of a multi-year effort to make its boats and its base more earth-friendly.

Over the course of the past five years, Island Yachts transformed its fleet of 16 Island Packets, ranging in size from 35-51ft, into energy-efficient vessels by adding solar panels. Located at Latitude 18, Longitude 65 in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the charter base couldn’t be more conducive to a steady stream of solar power. According to owner Skip King, “Solar allows for three hours less engine running time daily to charge batteries, which lends to a substantial reduction in engine wear and tear, and diesel fuel usage. In turn, this translates into prolonged engine longevity and a reduction in engine emissions, which contributes to better air quality".

In addition to the installation of solar panels, Island Yachts also began cleaning its boats with non-toxic biodegradable cleansers and stocking them with SEALAND biodegradable toilet paper. The company also briefs its charter guests on ways they can sail in an environmentally friendly manner, providing information on the marine and land environment; anti-marine litter efforts; proper anchoring and mooring procedures in sensitive reef areas; and general awareness of Virgin Island wildlife.

For more information, please visit Island Yacht Charters, Inc.

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