DUBE - JULY 2025
To the Amazing Aura Team!
We are so incredibly thankful for this unforgettable journey and for the amazing people who made it so special. From the moment we stepped aboard, you gave our family a gift—so many firsts that we’ll always remember: paddleboarding, e-foiling, catching a tarpon, the shot ski, and numerous other little adventures in between that made us laugh and connect.
But what made this trip truly meaningful wasn’t just the new experiences—it was being able to share a powerful last. Jos, your care and presence as my dad fulfilled his wish to dive one final time meant more than words can express. Watching him underwater with my son, guided by you, was like witnessing a beautiful passing of the torch—a moment that will stay with us forever. Your incredible patience while my son wanted to do every activity on board—and your ability to make him fall in love with fishing—was a gift all its own.
To Allie—thanks for making us feel comfortable everyday! You also brought he party with those magical painkillers and other fun cocktails and your impressive tablescapes! Katie… your food! I don’t know how you do it, but everything you made was delicious, comforting, and beautifully prepared. My daughter was talking about your crepes when we got home and everyone has asked me to take a bread class to try to learn how to make bread! I ate so much I’m going to need stretch pants for the foreseeable future—but it was worth every bite.
Jos, Allie, and Katie—thank you for being a part of this journey. You weren’t just the crew; you were part of our family for a little while. And we’re grateful beyond words for the memories we made together.
With all our love and appreciation,
The Dube and Darrell Family
May 2025
After Charter Review
WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR CHARTER?
Wow, that is a hard one! From the minute we got there until we departed it was fabulous. Every meal was wonderful and we all were very impressed. The crew was so much fun and treated us like family. They are a real jewel and made our trip one of the best we have ever had. We can’t say enough about them except thank you!
BEST ANCHORAGE?
Brewer Bay
FAVORITE MEMORY?
Crazy card game with Francois!
FAVORITE ACTIVITY?
Eating and sailing
BEST SHORE EXCURSION?
We had a ball on Anegada!
WHY?
Rented a small vehicle and toured the island and all the fun bars
HOW WAS YOUR BOAT?
The boat was in tip top shape and was everything you could want on a sailing trip. We would charter her again in a heartbeat with Francois, Kathy and Kat!
BEST THINGS ABOURT YUR CREW?
So friendly, fun and full of life! They made Sally and I really miss our kids.
ANYTHING SPECIAL TO MENTION: -
As the terminator would say “I be back”
AGNEW - DECEMBER 2024
Jos, Julia and Kim,
There are not words to accurately describe the total JOY this trip was for our family! We made so many incredible memories, all thank to you three! We had loads of ROSES (no thorns) lots of LEARNS and endless LAUGHS!! I would not change a thing.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for giving us this magical gift.
All our love,
Carolyn & Mark, Mollie, Ellie, James & Henry
HOUSE - DECEMBER 2024
WOW! What a week in paradise with the perfect crew. Experts all of you - Jos, Julia and Kim... and even better human beings.
Thank you for making our Christmas 2024 one for the memory bank.
The House Family
GRISHAM - NOVEMBER 2024
Our second WONDERFUL trip with such a great crew.
Thank you for a beautiful Thanksgiving vacation.
IHLE - NOVEMBER 2024
Jos, Julia and Kim,
Thank you all for such a fabulous week on Aura, everything has been perfect, from the food to the itinerary and of course, Captain's Corner!
You three are the absolute best crew and we're so lucky to have spent the week with you all.
Bob, Kara, Nichole, Rich, Deb, Phil, Tina, Matt XO
FRANCIS - JULY 2024
What an amazing week! Everything was perfect from the first greeting to our goodbye. Thank you for making our visit so personal and special. The meals were amazing, creative and delicious!! Jos, thank you for all the time spent with Carter doing all of the things he loves. Movie nights were very sweet and a great memory we will cherish.
We loved getting to know you,
Darla, Keith and family
OHLS - JUNE 2024
Dear Jos, Julia and Dominic,
This was certainly a trip of a lifetime for us. It was something we never dreamed we'd be able to do in our advancing mature years.
I want you three to know that much of the trips enjoyment came from your care. You are an incredible asset to Aura.
Thank you, thank you for your delicious cocktails, meals, a captain totally knowledgeable of the yacht and history of the islands, Julia who takes care of our every need, and a chef that is out of this world with flavors and presentation.
God's blessings,
Carolyn and Larry
COZYN - MAY 2024
Jos, Julia & Dominic,
So many moments! Sincere thanks from the Cozyn family vacay group.
Your willingness to participate in our family competitions (diving judges, trivia quiz master, paddle board race master, gastronomic taste testers etc) was a welcome addition to our charter.
We also appreciated the attendance of 'Thumbless Jacky' and 'The Commodore' at our pirate murder mystery dinner.
This was our first charter with 3 crew and the difference was evident. The food was FANTASTIC - thanks Dom! The service and drinks were awesome - thanks Julia! The seamanship and watersports were perfect - thanks Jos!
A trip to remember for all,
Marty, Kathy, Ashley, Steven, Adam and Julia
SIMON - MAY 2024
You showed my wife and four best friends a magical experience on a magnificent vessel which exceeded my hopes and expectations. For this, I say a heartfelt THANK YOU.
So many high points: the drinks, cuisine, laughs, interaction with the crew, anchorages, beach bars, THE DIVING (thank you, thank you, thank you Captain Jos).
My wife and I fell in love with Aura and her crew and will be returning next year with our kiddos.
Jeff & Kim
Jos, Jules and Dominic,
Experience of a lifetime! Thank you for an amazing week in the BVI and making it so special. You are truly amazing at your skill - you think of every detail.
Annie & Todd
Jos, Julia & Dominic,
Thank you for our first trip to the BVI. It was much anticipated and you beat our expectations.
The food - simply AMAZING. We had so much fun. Thank you for being a part of a week of memories that will last a lifetime.
Jen & Erik
BROWN - MARCH 2024
Jos, Julia & Dominic!
Wonderful memories, great friends, old and new, and a new lease on life.
Thank you for everything - adventure, calm, beauty, and the BEST food.
We love you!
Jubilee & Wendel
Matt & Jill
Angeles & Steve
Tom
MURTLOW - FEBRUARY 2024 - TANDEM
Jos, Jules and Dominic,
Thank you for an amazing week in the BVI. This was our first trip with the full family and you made it seamless.
First, our itinerary was perfect. We visited all the places that were a priority for us and many more idyllic spots.
Second, you took such great care of us onboard. From always making sure we were properly hydrated (!) to teaching us new games, everything was special.
Third, the food was outstanding! Dominic - you are a master. Not only was their food delicious, but the presentation always gorgeous.
There is so much more to cover, and we genuinely enjoyed your company and getting to know you.
Ann & Jim
Ally & Jake
Tyler
STENQUIST - FEBRUARY 2024
... I must go down to the sea again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gulls way and the whales way, where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover,
And quiet sleep and a sunset dream when the long trick's over.
(John Masefield)
Thank you for a great trip!
Sandy & Dean
Joni & Russ
Barb & Roger
Kelly & Sean
LARSON - JANUARY 2024
Jos, Julia and Dominic,
Our week on Aura was truly magical - every day was an amazing new adventure. The memories our family shared will last a lifetime.
I can only imagine the amount of planning and preparation that goes into each guests' stay. You three made it seem so relaxed and easy; we can't thank you all enough.
Safe sailing and much love,
The Larson Crew
Greg, Carrie, Hunter, Grant, Chase
HASON - JANUARY 2024
To the world's best team!
We cannot thank you enough for this magical week on Aura. The boat is, of course, spectacular, but you all made the experience PERFECT. You spoiled us for seven days, indulged our every whim and desire - including ones we didn't even know we had.
You fed us with care and creativity - and not just our bellies (bigger now)! You found new ways to delight us every day: beautiful vistas, adventures, small pleasures, and many more delights.
Dominic is truly a master in the galley - we couldn't have been happier or more impressed with every single meal! Each one photographed and documented.
Julia - our partner in hikes, cocktail making, you think of everything, even before we know we want something! We loved our games nights with you and escorting puppies.
Jos - what can we say? Your energy is boundless, your sense of fun is infectious, and your expertise is world class.
We could go on for days, but mostly thank you for giving our family memories that will last a lifetime. We are so grateful.
With much love,
Marty & Ellen, Lori & Steve, Emily & Ryan, Lisa & Alyssa
SMALLING - NOVEMBER 2023
Jos, Julia and Dominic,
Our time on Aura was a piece of perfection, a slice of heaven!
We'll attempt to put into words the synchronization of Mother Nature, God, endless beauty in all forms and your amazing team of three. Their perfect harmony was long lasting rejuvenation for our should and spirits.
I've spent many years in the BVI on many beautiful boats, but Aura is without doubt the winner of all; hands down in perfecting the balance of hosting and care for her guests. The four of us all enjoyed our stay onboard in many different ways but I think we all end this memorable, magical and fabulous time knowing we can't wait to come back.
Dominic, your skills in creating culinary masterpieces will not be forgotten! Jos and Julia, what an itinerary, it was like you knew us already and all our wishes for dreamy anchorages every night/
Stay well and healthy, thank you for a beautiful trip,
Laurie, Dirk, Anne and Rich
NOGLE - AUGUST 2023, GRENADINES
Jos, Julia & Allie,
What an amazing week with an amazing crew! This is our second trip with you and we knew to expect no less. You have given us memories that we will cherish for a lifetime!
We have been blessed to take such a trip, blessed with people that have taken such wonderful care of us, and blessed with new friends.
We truly appreciate the tremendous amount of planning and hard work you all put into making our week so easy and incredibly relaxing. Those of us who sail have ultimate respect for your skill and knowledge.
It is sad to say goodbye, but we hope this is not our last sail with you! Stay well!
Jim & Gayle, Tracy & Claudia, Ron & Melody
STAPLETON - JUNE 2023
Dear Jos, Julia & Kim,
Thank you a million for an amazing week onboard (and off-road!), we loved every minute and are so grateful for the incredible energy and fun you brought us every day. We really do adore you all and hope that you'll come see us in Texas.
Until the next time... a GALAXY of love and thanks!
HARGRAVES - JUNE 2023
Best vacation EVER!!! 10 STARS!! Truly, this vacation has topped all of our adventures - and we will be back!
I have been to the BVI twice before on a self-crewed yacht, and while the adventure was fun, it paled in comparison to this crewed yacht with Jos, Julia, and Kim.
This is the most professional, most experienced crew that anyone could want for a vacation, and it was worth every penny.
The Yacht: What can one say to a brand new 65-foot yacht that is fitted with every option for a luxurious space. The owner spared no expense, it is truly gorgeous, the perfect vessel for this amazing trip.
The Crew: This crew was simply amazing. The three of them were so compatible and professional that you could feel the seamless movement of their service floating about.
Not having experienced a crew prior, I wasn’t sure what to expect and I was a little concerned about being able to properly relax with three more personalities onboard. But now I feel I couldn’t have achieved that level of true relaxation without them. I believe because of their experience and professionalism they absolutely knew how to tailor this trip to our needs. They instantly felt like family or a good friend that you’ve known for years. So unexpected and perfect!
The Adventure: Having an experienced crew to tour the BVI is truly the best way to go. Captain Jos and Julia planned an amazing tour incorporating our preferences and enhanced it with locations and special sightings that we didn’t know existed. The galaxy of starfish, the hidden secrets of the BVI that a self-crewed yacht would never know, it was a whole new experience.
Jos: Not only was Jos a seasoned Captain, but he also had endless energy to keep our trip fun for our entire family. I was so happy that he spent time with my 16-year-old son to teach him about sailing, fishing, foil surfing, scuba diving, halyard swinging, cliff jumping and sea-bobbing. Jos planned each day from morning until night while tirelessly entertaining my high energy teen. It was such a nice break for me as a widow and single parent. It warmed my heart to see my son learning and enjoying himself every day. It’s an experience he will never forget!
Julia: First mate and stewardess, so professional and nurturing. Her anticipation and timing of our needs were perfectly endless. She would have cool lemongrass scented cloths and ice water ready after each excursion and anticipated our need for a refilled drink or dry towel throughout our trip. Julia made us feel like we’d been friends forever. I know they have a big job running this yacht, but if there was ever any stress for her or any of the crew, you would never know it. Julia and Jos, so perfectly matched, worked seamlessly together. Such a joy to see.
Kim: All I can say is Food, Food, Food! Yum, Yum, Yum! She is the most amazing Chef! I just wanted to take her home with me. I ate entirely too much because my taste buds were so happy every day! You will not go hungry, and she will cater to your every desire. Thank you Kim! And thank you for spending endless hours with my daughter letting her join you in some of the meal preparations. You were a blessing!
This trip was the perfect pace and perfect escape from reality to relax and rejuvenate. Having someone else in charge, planning and taking the reins was so refreshing, especially for a single parent who is always in the driver’s seat. It was so nice to be a passenger and enjoy the ride. ♡♡♡
ELLIS - MAY 2023
Jos, Julia and Kim. Our second trip with you and the experience was just as amazing as last time. All of you always made sure that everything was perfect. The Birthday dinners were as unforgettable as Kim dancing round the kitchen. We are all looking forward to coming back!
Safe Sailing!
GRAHAM - MAY 2023
Julia, Kim and Jos,
You three are the boss,
You sailed us, fed us, kept us in drink,
Without you, we'd all be lost!
Seriously - you are wonderful humans to be around. You each made this time so special in every way. Thank you for the gift of relaxation. Anna
You three are MAGIC! Your presence, calm and ever-attentive care made this an easy and special time. You are all three amazing, thank you for every special little things it all added to an unforgettable trip. With hugs and gratitude. Marjorie
The trip and experience you all created for us was truly unbelievable and memorable. For a group who rarely unplug, you made this seamless and so meaningful. We felt so well taken care of. You three are masters of what you do and are creating incredible experiences for all of us. Thank you! Lisa & Dan
I laughed. I cried (from laughing so hard). I made memories I'll never forget. Thank you so much for a fantastic week, we all had so much fun. It was really special to get to know you. Ryan
Previous Guests with Jos & Julia, Summer 2022, Foxy Lady
Jos, Julia and Mich,
Where do we even begin? I think we all collectively agree that this was the most amazing vacation ever! Your kindness and hospitality far exceeded our expectations - we were absolutely blown away by everything!
Julia's each and every meal was a work of art - not only beautifully presented but totally delicious. Jos's knowledge and expertise - not to mention his patience - was amazing! And we are all fighting over who gets to take Mich home with them. She is the sweetest person and the best bartender.
Goodbye is hard to say - we never want to leave this little slice of heaven.... Until next time!
FIRST CLASS BOAT - WORLD CLASS CREW!! Beyond grateful for this experience and equally grateful for our new friendship.
Previous Guests with Jos & Julia, Summer 2022, Foxy Lady
Dear Jos, Julia and Mich.
In this crazy world of ours with virus variants and protocols changing daily - we truly did not think this BVI vacation was going to happen! It was a CHRISTMAS MIRACLE!
We arrived worn and weary and were taken care of immediately. Julia, Jos and Mich - you are experts at what you do! It's not easy, but it looked effortless!
Cocktails, meals, tucked away anchorages, guided scuba and snorkelling, and most importantly, making us feel comfortable and relaxed on Foxy Lady. It was a special family vacation we will cherish forever with our kids.
Clean plates, full hearts and eager eyes! We can't wait to meet up again!
Previous Guests with Jos & Julia, Summer 2022, Foxy Lady
We cannot thank you enough for this beautiful week on this gorgeous sailing 'home'. Foxy Lady has so far exceeded our expectation that it's difficult to list all the magic we've experienced!
We cannot thank you enough for your suggestions and creating the perfect itinerary and captaining us into beautiful bays and cays and even more beautiful sunsets every single evening!
The fabulous, delicious, beautiful meals will be remembered and missed so much. Absolutely 5*! You are an amazing and gifted chef and we were so lucky to have you.
Mich - it's been a joy to be a recipient of your beautiful and delicious cocktails and your delightful and joyful personality.
Our time on Foxy Lady has been a dream come true and the three of you have a left a big, warm print on our hearts.
Previous Guests with Jos & Julia, Summer 2022, Foxy Lady
Jos & Julia,
THANK YOU, THANK YOU for the most amazing week aboard Foxy Lady! We loved every minute and will never forget our time with you. You are so much fun, and helpful, and we will miss so many things - amazing food, non-stop watersports, laughter, trivia, getting our asses kicked at trivia by Julia, and everything in between. You are the BEST!
