2024

This was a 'real' charter, on a real liveaboard with actual owners who have sailed this boat 30K+ miles.   Typical charters are bare boats with Captains and First Mates who shuffle between different boats and can't tell you a lot about the boat you are on.   Chartering with Sisu allows one to:

* See downwind sails in action (charter boats don't have this capability)

* Night sail (charter companies don't allow this)

* Go places outside a charter company's allowed cruising area

* Get drone footage to document your vacation.

*  See how a proper liveaboard is provisioned

*  Scuba dive (charter boats have snorkeling and paddleboard gear, but dive gear is not typically included on catamarans).



I learned a bunch from Frik on sailing craft and technique, and this added to learnings from previous charters. In addition, he had a lot of background knowledge about boat upgrades and maintenance, lessons learned, options he would and wouldn't take if he had to do it again, etc.

And Petro has a wealth of experience on how to efficiently provision a boat, plan meals, and how to manage all the logistics.  And her meals were amazing.



If owning a sailing catamaran is in your future, this is a great crew from which to learn.



Greetings

Rob

2024

Our recent catamaran charter aboard Sisu was nothing short of spectacular! From the moment we stepped on board, we knew we were in for an extraordinary adventure. Captain Frik and Chef Petro created an experience that far exceeded our expectations, combining impeccable service, local expertise, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that made us feel at home in paradise.  The catamaran was spacious, luxurious, and immaculately maintained.



Captain Frik was the cornerstone of our adventure. His professionalism, knowledge of the islands, and friendly demeanor set the tone for an incredible trip. Frik’s ability to navigate the waters of the BVI with ease and his skill in selecting the best anchorages made every day feel like a new discovery. Frik even ensured we arrived at the perfect time to avoid crowds. His storytelling and knowledge of local culture added depth to every destination.



Chef Petro was nothing short of a culinary magician. Every meal she prepared was a masterpiece, combining fresh, local ingredients with world-class technique that rivaled any five-star restaurant. The dining experience aboard Sisu was elevated by her creativity and passion for her craft.



What truly made this trip extraordinary was the warm hospitality of Frik and Petro. They went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect, from greeting us with welcome drinks to creating special moments. Their genuine passion for what they do was evident in every interaction, and they made us feel not like passengers, but like family.



We cannot recommend this experience highly enough and are already dreaming of the day we can set sail with Frik and Petro again!



Curt & Lizzie

November 2023

Dear Frik



I wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation for the incredible sailing experience you provided during our recent voyage aboard your catamaran. As both our captain and gracious host, you went above and beyond to ensure that our time on board was not only safe and enjoyable but truly memorable.



Here are some highlights from our experience:



Warm Welcome: From the moment we stepped onto the catamaran, your warm and friendly welcome set the tone for the entire journey. Your genuine hospitality made us feel right at home, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere on board.



Expert Navigation: Your skilful navigation of the catamaran was nothing short of impressive. Your confidence at the helm and your ability to smoothly navigate through various conditions showcased your expertise and instilled a sense of trust in your capabilities as our captain.



Educational Insights: We appreciated the way you seamlessly blended sailing expertise with educational insights. Your willingness to share your knowledge about the surrounding waters, marine life, and sailing techniques added a fascinating dimension to our journey.



Attentive Service: Your attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction did not go unnoticed. From ensuring our comfort on board to anticipating our needs, you consistently demonstrated a high level of attentiveness that contributed to the overall enjoyment of the trip.



Flexible and Accommodating: Your flexibility and willingness to tailor the experience to our preferences did not go unnoticed. Whether adjusting the itinerary to accommodate our interests or providing additional insights into local attractions, your flexibility enhanced the overall experience.



Safety First: Your commitment to safety was evident throughout our journey. Your thorough safety briefings and constant awareness of our well-being reassured us and allowed us to relax and fully embrace the sailing adventure.



In summary, our time aboard your catamaran exceeded all expectations, thanks to your exceptional skills as a captain and host. We left with not only beautiful memories but also a deep appreciation for the art of sailing, all made possible by your dedication to providing an outstanding guest experience.



We look forward to the opportunity to sail with you again and will enthusiastically recommend your services to friends and fellow adventure seekers.



Fair winds and sincere thanks,



Mike Budreau

November 2023

My wife and I have had the pleasure of being hosted by Petro, many times. Without doubt, Petro’s cooking is one of the best we have experienced.



She has a wide repertoire of cuisines and can cook a delicious meal from simple foods available, or a multiple coursed affair. We have been lucky enough to sample a range of these.



Petro is clean and personable. She has a great sense of humour but can be calm and gentle when the situation demands. She is an incredible hostess and knows intuitively what to do under different circumstances. She is very safety conscious and would not endanger herself or clients.



Her galley is immaculate, and her food hygiene impeccable. My wife has certainly noticed this.



We have known Petro for a long time and can highly recommend her catering and culinary skills, and also her as a person.



Petro will cater for any dietary needs.



Sun downers at the end of the day, tend to be mainly cocktails, and are absolutely amazing.



Petro has endless talents with her cooking skills, I’d never call her a cook but a chef, and would welcome her on any vessel that I sail as Master.

November 2023

Petro van Biljoen is a skilled culinary artist with a wide repertoire of cooking skills demonstrated by her ability to produce delicious meals from simple to fancy, single course to many courses, intimate appetizers to large groups.



In addition to her exceptional skill creating delicious food in her galley, she keeps her workspace immaculate, has a sunny and positive disposition, is an incredibly hard worker and is the most gracious of hosts. I would recommend her without hesitation for any position but especially on a yacht where she understands living in close quarters, getting along with other people, tidiness, cleanliness, and the value of a positive attitude.



As a person with many years of experience on and around yachts I cannot think of a more qualified cook and/or host. Time aboard Sisu with Petro in charge of the food is a first class experience.

March 2023

My husband and I joined SISU for a crewed charter in March of 2023. They were so kind to bring us aboard for a week long adventure. They not only taught us so much about sailing, they also fed us with the most delicious meals. Petro was our chef for our charter and she makes amazing food. We woke up to breakfasts with pancakes, eggs, bacon, potatoes, home made bread and fresh fruits. While we were eating these amazing breakfasts, Petro was already preparing our feasts for dinner. We enjoyed a delicious lamb shank dinner with homemade gravy and veggies.



She was so gracious with her cooking and the variety of foods she prepared for us. One evening we had a group of at least 14 adults over for evening sundowners and Petro made this beautiful charcuterie board with a vast variety of meats, cheeses, veggies, fruits, crackers and bread. Her food was simply made from love and her passion to serve others some of her favorite foods. Petro also made us some delicious drinks that were always island themed.



Petro was so kind and by the end of our charter we felt like family. Together they made our sailing vacation so enjoyable and gave us memories we will never forget. They made us feel very special and we left very happy with our choice to charter with them as our crew.



There was also a crew member who was gluten intolerant and Petro made sure to prepare foods for them as well.



Sincerely yours, Kimberly Budreau