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Reviews of Stay Aboard Our 40-Foot Private Sailing Yacht w/ 2 Cabins — private slip & AC!

Stay Aboard Our 40-Foot Private Sailing Yacht w/ 2 Cabins — private slip & AC!
Carolina Beach, NC

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 33 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 33 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Frank

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The boat is in a great location right on the ICW..Enjoyed sitting on the deck and watching the boats go by. Beds were comfortable. We had 3 people, 2 slept in stern bedroom and one in the bow. Really fun way to spend a weekend rather than a motel.. Short drive to restaurants and beach. Quarters were a little tight but manageable for our group of 3. We will do it again when we get back to Wilmington.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Boat first timers
We wanted to create unique memories with our family while going to the beach. Kevin helped make our stay so seamless. We were a short walk from a clean beach. Our location was peaceful. We felt very taken care of, with no problems at all.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent
Best vacation in Carolina Beach so far.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Camille

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our stay on the Why Knot was an adventure? The boat was spotless. The marina was also very clean. We enjoyed the experience. Kevin was very helpful. Thank you for the opportunity!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joel P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Romantic Sunsets
This was the perfect romantic scene. Everything was just so beautiful. The owner is a motivational speaker and there were positive quotes everywhere. It would be a great challenge to have a negative attitude on this beauty. The wine was Devine. The marina boathouse was so clean. We had a very nice time. Thank you
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Host
We really enjoyed the stay. (Although Saturday was a total wash out ) Everyone that we talked to was totally awesome and helpful. We look forward to staying again
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway!
Beautiful boat, short walk to the beach and conveniently located to the boardwalk for dinner and drinks! If you are looking for something different, a stay on a sailboat is a great experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacey H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great sailboat
This was a gift for my husband. We had a great time. Kevin was so nice and super helpful. The other people on the dock were great too. You are “glamping” on a boat. It was a terrific experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mandy Lane K.

Liked: Cleanliness
On the water
Kevin is a perfect host, easy to get in touch. The boat was so nice and clean! A bit hot down below. Relaxing on the deck of the boat and Marina in the shade with a wonderful breeze was nice. Beautiful sunsets on the water!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

nina e.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic Location!
Super great location on the water with beautiful view for watching the sunset and the early morning fishing boats leaving for the day. Host is very communicative and check in/out very easy. The WhyKnot was well provisioned and we didn’t need to bring anything other than food. And the beds were very comfortable! We will definitely return. Great trip! Thanks!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 27, 2022
Thanks so much for staying aboard Nina and family! Thrilled you had such a great time and enjoyed the boat. Also, such a thrill to meet you all and take you out for a sail! Hope to see you again soon ... all the best! ~ Kevin and Beka

10/10 Excellent

Joseph O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Why Knot? Why Yes!
Awesome for all who expect beauty, comfort, cleanliness yet limber enough to manage the steps, which became easier each time! That was a wonderful vacation just an hour from home! Tks👍👍
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lina A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Different and fun experience
Our family of 3 (plus our pup!) had a rally fun time staying at the “Why Knot”. Lovely views of the sunset. It was a different experience and we had a great time.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

William E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Weekend on the water
Awesome stay! Boat was beautiful, very comfortable loved it. We will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Molly S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience
So many things to do. So little time. We had so much fun fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding. Shane took us out on his boat and we got to just in the ocean. Hope to come back next year.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

6/10 Okay

Tess M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Why Knott
Well maintained nice boat with most of the main necessities on board. Perfect location, easy walk to the spectacular shoreline sunrises. We also enjoyed sunsets right from the deck of the boat. Marina and facilities were clean, neighbors were friendly and the dog friendliness - overall welcoming attitude was so special!! There were some issues that did not go well which we since noticed have been mentioned by others previously. The host requested feedback which was provided in hopes that there will be better, more completely transparent and accurate descriptions regarding sleeping quarters, rest room, and booking a sail for future guests.. This would ensure clear understanding up front and prevent misunderstanding BEFORE someone books/pays. It would be more worth the price if one made their decision based on a crystal clear understanding especially about the restroom. Aesthetically, proximity to seeing great stuff and dining; and welcoming of or furry family members are it's best features!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome experience!!
We had a great weekend vacation staying on the Why Knot?. The location was ideal , sailboat was extremely clean, bed super comfy & the view was unbeatable! We would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 25, 2021
Thank you Dan! Thrilled to have hosted you aboard ... so happy you enjoyed your stay. And we welcome you back any time! Next time though, let's go sailing :) Take care! ~ Kevin

4/10 Poor

Kim H., Raleigh, NC

Liked: Cleanliness
What it is knot
short stay 9/2021- view from boat is pretty, marina quiet, but the A/C was very insufficient everywhere in the cabin other than one bedroom bunk, where it is very loud. There was a heavy mildew smell in the whole cabin which remained on our clothes -wireless was showing available but wouldn't accept the pw- owner suggested we use hotspot-our plan doesn't include it but a booster on the boat would help. Having to use the marina BR in the middle of the night while navigating a slippery dock/boat wasn't pleasant- we left a day/night early when A/C and smell couldn't be remedied- had tried suggestions in notebook- In the cooler season when the cabin area can be opened up to fresh air, it would likely have been a nicer experience but for us, in the heat and humidity, a Carolina Beach hotel room would have been less expensive and far more comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 27, 2021
Hi Kim, We sincerely appreciate your constructive feedback about these issues. We work extremely hard to exceed everyone's expectations and provide a unique "salt-life" experience. Unfortunately, the AC issue you experienced was just a switch on the navigation panel! I had tried contacting you several times but did not hear back. Assumed it was fixed for you actually! The AC unit you mentioned being loud could also be turned off or the cabin door could be shut. We also have the boat professionally cleaned before and after each guest, so I'm confused and disappointed to read that you felt there was a mildew odor. I don't recall you informing us about that until after you left; otherwise we would have sent a cleaner immediately over to investigate and remedy. If there's ever an issue with our guests, we handle it immediately! The marina WiFi is outside our control and we address that in the welcome document and in our listing profile. It's a decent signal but difficult if trying to stream. Our apologies you had the experience you did and I hope you do not give up on boat life! ;) If you're ever in the area again, let us take you out on a complimentary sailing cruise for an hour or two -- our treat! Take care,

10/10 Excellent

Bettina W., USA

Liked: Cleanliness
great
Our vacation on this yacht was amazing. Any time again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 30, 2021
So thrilled you enjoyed your stay so much ... you are welcome back ANY time!! :) Look forward to having you aboard again.

10/10 Excellent

Linda S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay!
What a unique experience--I mean, how many people can say they've stayed on a sailboat?! Kevin was a great communicator and answered all of our questions promptly and knowledgeably.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 27, 2021
It was so nice having you all aboard to enjoy a unique experience!! Welcome back any time ;))

10/10 Excellent

Donna G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very unique experience!
Great
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

David W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nice
Nice
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B., Elgin, South Carolina

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful Time
We had a great stay, boat was very clean and convenient to restaurants and the beach. Enjoyed morning coffee and evening wine in the cockpit. Just simply wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 3, 2021
So thrilled you enjoyed your time aboard Jeff! Would welcome you back any time :)

10/10 Excellent

Lisa H., Elon, NC

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun Experience!
We enjoyed our stay on the yacht. Our favorite part was watching the sunset off of the deck each evening. The neighbors were all very friendly. The bed slept great. We would happily do this again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 9, 2021
So thrilled you enjoyed your stay aboard!!! We welcome you back ... let's go sailing next time! ;)

10/10 Excellent

Nicole C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect stay!
We stayed here twice over the summer. Once just the adults and once with the kids. We had a perfect stay! The boat is gorgeous and all of the accommodations were spot on. The owner was very responsive and we can’t wait to stay here again very soon! My kiddos said the boat was their favorite part of their whole stay:)
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Brian L., Clayton NC

Liked: Cleanliness
Cozy
Enjoyable time on the boat.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A unique weekend that we very much enjoyed. Restaurants are close and reasonable. Marina is nice and bathhouse was clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Matthew S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Top vacation stay
Great spit that is so unique. Great facility and plenty to do. I highly recommend this experience to people who love to travel and stay in fun locations! We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
We were so honored to have Matt and family stay aboard. So thrilled they had a great experience ... Matt, we welcome you back anytime. Next time we go sailing! ;) ~ Kevin and Beka

10/10 Excellent

Francesca S.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful time. The sailboat was just what we wanted. Quiet and romantic.
We had a wonderful time. We would recommend it to anyone. Your suggestions for restaurants and outings were perfect.
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
Was so wonderful to have you aboard!! Congratulations on your anniversary ... you're welcome back any time. Thank you so much!

10/10 Excellent

Sunshine L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Sunsets!!
My family and I had a wonderful stay on the Why Knott. I cant wait to do it again. Wonderful sunsets and very comfortable. The gentle rocking put me right to sleep at night. I highly recommend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

2/10 Terrible

Patti G.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Expensive mistake
We booked for 6 nights, but left after the first night. Upon arrival the refrigerator/freezer was not working (reviews on other websites state that it wasn’t working clear back in May). We called the owner. He told us to use the Yeti cooler instead and he would pay for the ice. However, the Yeti cooler was missing the plug at the bottom. All of our food spoiled. The A/C unit kept the bedroom cool, but the rest of the boat remained hot unless we stood directly in front of the unit. Then the bedroom unit froze up the next morning. So we found ourselves with no place to keep cool, no food to eat and no cold drinks. His listing shows it as having a bathroom, but the video says they “prefer you use the marina bathrooms as much as possible”. In reality, it has a bathroom (that smelled horrible) that you are not allowed to use at all “unless it’s an emergency “. The marina bathroom is about a block away and up a steep ramp. This boat is for sale, I saw a sign in the marina office, so that may be why he doesn’t seem to care. He offered no refund! The video said we would arrive to a bottle of wine, which didn’t happen and it appeared as if nobody was expecting us. We spent the first 30 minutes cleaning the inside with wet wipes that kept turning black and the fans were caked with dust. At least we can say we left the boat cleaner than it was when we arrived. It looks much better in the pictures than in reality.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
This review provided many teachable moments for us to communicate even better with guests in advance, so thank you for sharing. However, we were not made aware of these issues until after the guests had departed. Majority of the issues listed could have been remedied if we were made aware. I was so concerned that I drove 2 hours to the boat just to check why "nothing was working." When I arrived to the boat, several of the switches had been turned OFF which explains why several of the issues occurred. For example, if children turn off the air conditioning switch, then the air conditioning will not work. So this situation was extremely unfortunate and we continue to feel horrible that their experience wasn't as enjoyable as dozens of other guests who have stayed with us. We did provide a proportionate refund. We live several hours away and rely on our cleaners to properly prepare the boat. We have an onsite manager as well and communicate with guests several times in advance of arrival and onsite. All we ask is that guests communicate with us if something isn't right, so that we can make it right immediately. If we don't know about it, unfortunately we can't help. This was an expensive learning opportunity for us as well. Fortunately, we feel confident this was an isolated issue. We have taken steps to help ensure it doesn't happen again! The Youtube video you can watch on our listing IS the condition you will find the boat in! Welcome aboard :)

10/10 Excellent

Tom S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely hosts and great stay
Perfect slip location and cabin was nicely outfitted. Really enjoyed this "glamping" on this beautiful boat.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
Wonderful to have you all aboard --- it was such a pleasure. Thank you for sharing time with your family aboard!

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely Great Experience!
This was a surprise trip for my husband for Father’s Day. It was a first for both of us as far as staying on a sailboat. The sunset was breathtaking....the mornings were so relaxed. We loved it and will definitely be back!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
So wonderful to have you aboard!! Welcome back any time :))

10/10 Excellent

Regina F.

Well needed weekend get away!
Didn't get to celebrate my husbands birthday due to a lot of family issues. This trip was so relaxing and a different experience than staying at a condo or hotel room. Staying right on the water was very relaxing. The owner was also very nice and made sure that he was available for any questions or anything. Enjoyed meeting him too. Just enjoyable no matter how you looked at it. First time for everything but will not be the last. Highly recommend for doing something different than the norm!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 1, 2020
It was such a pleasure having you aboard --- thank YOU!!!