These are the testimonies of incredible guests who shared their lives with us on board Rio. Their stories have empowered and inspired us to transform even more people around the planet as we sail to Bimini from Florida and the Bahamas to the Caribbean.
Ryan –July 2015
Getting to the boat was only a 15-minute ride from the airport. Everything was top-notch, from their spacious sailboat to the beautiful and healthy food. We can’t wait to visit again.
Samuel Young and his family
Doris, Serena, Norden, Samuel. November 2016
Below was written by my 10-year-old daughter Serena; no one word was changed by us, thus reflecting a natural feeling that came from a child’s view: “Oh, the seas! This was the best experience with my family on the ocean! You might imagine a luxurious time on the sea, as soft, felt-covered blankets in your cabin, excellent hosts, and singing and dancing on the ship deck. Then your dream came true, only 100 times better! Our hosts, Jose and Alex, are the Best! My brother and I had a great time with them, making food, picking flowers with Alex, and having wisdom chats with Jose. Our whole family was awed when we ate the fresh, all-homemade, raw food.
It was DELICIOUS! We learned so much about the healthy eating lifestyle on our trip over the seas! So if you haven’t already, I encourage you to experience this relaxing, learning, magnificent trip on the Wellness on the Sea.”
Debi Adams & Rich January 2018
Alex, Debi, and Rich are on the deck catching some sun…
Our trip to Rio was nothing short of amazing. From the time we arrived, Jose and Alex made sure we were safe and comfortable! Our every need was taken care of. The sailboat is beautiful, spacious, and immaculate; most importantly, Jose and Alex are at the helm of this beautiful vessel.
Debi having FUN taking photos.
The meals served were delectable plant-based meals that were presented as if we were dining in a five-star establishment—not being a vegan, I didn’t know what to expect but was beyond pleasantly surprised. The meals were delectable and presented as they would in a 5-star establishment. We were never left hungry.
Having lunch incurred the cost of Bimini Bahamas, next to the sunken ship.
We took the option to sail to Bimini for several days, and it was an experience NOT to be missed. We snorkeled off a shipwreck and floated on rafts, all of which were provided. The island is small, authentic Bohemian, and unspoiled. Jose and Alex knew exactly where to go, and we were lucky enough to have them join us.
Rich just loved the moment in Bimini, the Bahamas.
We started on this journey as strangers and have ended up lifelong friends. Jose’s wisdom, knowledge of his sailboat, coaching tips for health, and life story is certainly one you won’t forget. We love you, Jose and Alex, and thanks for making this a vacation we will never forget. xo
Lauren and Brittany August 2017
Our stay with Jose and Alex was nothing short of amazing. A girlfriend and I decided to book a last-minute trip to Ft. Lauderdale and planned to spend two nights on the boat with one day of sailing. I have to say that finding Rio, Jose, and Alex was such a stroke of luck.
My only regret is that we didn’t have more time to sail to the islands. The boat was beautiful, immaculate, and comfortable to stay on. Our day of sailing was one of the best days I’ve experienced in a while. We had perfect weather, could see and swim in clear blue water, and even saw a pack of dolphins and a sea turtle. Our sunset dinner was unreal. The meals that Jose and Alex prepared were unbelievable.
Everything was so fresh and beautifully presented. I’m still dreaming about the tofu stirs fry and the kimchi. And that chocolate bark! It has given me a new outlook on foods and a desire to eat fresher and cleaner (and reduced meats) 🙂 Upon our arrival, Jose and Alex were so kind to recommend beautiful restaurants and bars and even drove us into town each night to drop us off.
This will be a trip that I will never forget, and I cannot wait for another opportunity to come back to Rio. Thank you again, Jose and Alex!!! – Lauren and Brittany
Click NOW to book your sailing adventure.
October 2017
Best Airbnb yet! Beautiful sloop, best food, great company, comfortable bed – just the best!!! I can’t express how grateful I am for the hosts. – just amazing! Steve was having a great time sailing Rio, in over 25 km. Offshore sailing lessons in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Christina – June 2017
This is the spot for you if you want the perfect vacation that transports you to another world. Jose and Alex are phenomenal hosts, ensuring we are all comfortable at every moment while still minding the sails. The food was incredible! Freshly made juices, salads, and even Thai-style vegetarian dishes pack so much flavor you didn’t know in vegetarian cooking. Sailing across the Gulf Stream is something everyone should do once in their life – or a few times if you can manage. Experiencing the wind at your side while taking in the ocean’s vastness is something you cannot get just sailing around a harbor or on a tour boat. This is the experience of sailing and the freedom that comes with it. Don’t look any further; if you are interested in beautiful Azul-colored waters, multitudes of marine life, and incredible sunsets/rises, then you found just the listing. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sun, sails, and wind at your back.
Response from Jose – June 2017
My dear Christi, Reading these words brings me a feeling of joy; I am genuinely grateful that you and your guests dared to say “yes” and have the trust to leave the safety of land behind and navigate through the night to a distant shore across the Gulfstream and the Florida Straits. You are truly incredible! I cannot believe how much these quotes describe you! This particular one, by Charles Cook, reminds me of you. “Until you dare to lose sight of the shore, you will not know the terror of being forever lost at sea.” I believe life without courage and integrity is a life filled with emptiness! I’ve realized that you were composed of those two essential living meaning to life. Some of the best quotes I can find in my mind’s eye to describe the feeling I have every time I set sail are these…
“The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible. Still, they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.” — Vincent Van Gogh, Painter “It is not that life ashore is distasteful to me. But life at sea is better.” — Sir Francis Drake, Sea Captain. You are all very welcome back on board Rio any day!! Book your sailing adventure.
Thank you so much for your kind words and, most of all, your courage, your love, and your understanding. Until we see each other again, happy sailing and safe journeys to all of you. Namaste, Jose
Estonian Friends April 2017
Staying on the yacht Rio was supreme. The hospitality of Jose and Alexandra was just excellent, right from the beginning when Jose picked us up at the airport just moments after our arrival. The food they prepared for us was delicious, fresh, and healthy, so we can confidently say: “Rio, the Michelin star restaurant at sea.” Swimming with dolphins, diving, snorkeling, and seeing various sea life like sharks, rays, turtles, and so on was superb. He was sailing in the Bimini islands’ waters – another mega experience. Jose also showed us around the Everglades National Park and the city of Fort Lauderdale. He’s better at it than a professional tour guide.
Rio & Wellness On the Sea with Jose and Alexandra deserves more stars than any resort on the shore. We are delighted that we got acquainted with special people like Jose and Alexandra. They made sailing the Bahamas our best holiday ever. We take a deep bow of respect and thank you very much from Estonia and Germany.
Best regards, Marek, Priit, Errki, and Axel
Joseph 2016
Our trip to Rio was an extraordinary experience that was more than I could ever have imagined. My girlfriend and I spent four nights on the sailing vessel Rio while sailing the Bahamas – which was breathtaking. Jose, Alex, and Alberto became more than hosts and treated us as friends – constantly sharing their inspiration and wellness advice. We had so many great adventures and meals at sea that we will never forget.
She jumped into the water and had the confidence to swim and snorkel with the support and patience of everyone! We also learned so much about healthy eating and how to change our diet, which will immensely positively affect our health. The meals that Jose and Alex prepared were delicious…we felt an improvement in our health afterward and are excited to continue this healthy lifestyle. Rio was a very comfortable sailboat, and we learned much about sailing and boat maintenance.
We left truly inspired and feeling we had gained new friendships that we will always value!
Book your sailing adventure.
Kristie 2017
We weren’t sure at first what we were getting into when booking this trip, but after reading other reviews, we decided to book. And we were glad we did! Jose and Alex were excellent, as was our whole experience.
We sailed to Bimini on our first night there. This was our first time sailing; sailing under the moon and stars were gorgeous. While at Bimini, we enjoyed the beach and the Bimini culture and food. Bimini was a quaint, friendly island, and Jose and Alex were great fun showing us around. We had some rough weather on our way back, but we felt safe knowing what an experienced captain we had. Jose is also an excellent chef and makes delicious meals.
My husband and I now consider Jose and Alex friends and continue to have fond memories of our trip.
Leonardo and Marcelo 2016
LA MEJOR ETADIA DE MI VIDA!!!!!!!JOSE ES GENIAL, NOS AYUDO CON LOS TRASLADOS, LLEGAMOS MAS TARDE Y ESTABA AL FIRME, EL VELERO ES ESCEPCIONAL, GRANDE LIMPIO Y CON TODAS LAS COMODIDADES, LO NAVEGAMOS HASTA BAHAMAS CON JOSE Y ALBERTO, EXCEPCIONALES PERSONAS DE LAS QUE SE AGRADECE A DIOS POR HABERLAS CONOCIDOS. MEJOR IMPOSIBLE INFINITAS GRACIAS A TI Y ALBERTO, LO MEJOR PARA USTEDES Y EL RIO!!!!!!!!!
Ashish 2017
This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We had initially wanted to sail with Jose to the Bahamas, but powerful winds prevented us. Jose instead gave us a land program and a day of sailing instead. His program gave our entire family exceptionally healthy food that helped us to lose weight and feel fabulous. I believe that we met lifelong friends and will always cherish the experience. Even if you don’t do the program and stay on the boat, it is a magical place to stay and sleep as you are rocked in this “cradle.”
The location is prime between the beach and some trendy shops on Los Olas Blvd. The bathrooms on the boat are a unique experience and are by a sailboat.
Radisa 2016
My family’s best adventure was staying on board Rio and Sailing to the Bahamas. Alexandra and Jose have gone beyond and above to make our stay on board Rio very comfortable. We have learned much about sailing, especially wellness and healthy food. But let me list a few specific things that could help future travelers: Staying on board Rio was very comfortable. She is a beautiful sailboat! -Sailing from Florida to the Bahamas was the best adventure of our life.
While in the Bahamas, Alexandra and Jose shared local secrets, beautiful beaches, and fantastic local food with us. -Food on board Rio was out of this world. We have enjoyed raw organic food more than we would ever imagine. Jose is not just a great chef; he is an artist!!! Every item was prepared with love and so much passion that we were left speechless. On this trip, we fell in love with sailing, Rio, with the Bahamas, and learned so much about Wellness and health for life, but above all, we have made new friends. Alexandra and Jose, thank you for everything.
Rodrigo September 2017
What a fantastic adventure. If you want to meet new people and experience them, this is a lifetime opportunity. Jose and Alex was nothing but phenomenal host. After you come, you will understand better what I mean by phenomenal! I recommend booking them if you are not in a hush and have strict deadlines because mother nature will dictate your actions. But don’t worry, raining or sunny; they will make sure you have a wonderful time in Fort Lauderdale. Raw food was at a Michelin star level. A glass of wine was a cherry on top of the sundae. But in the end, it is all about the company, which is the package’s highest value. Thank you so much for this fantastic experience.
Hannah May 2016
The Rio was an unbelievable experience! A gorgeous boat located on a beautiful waterway. I remember waking up in such a state of peacefulness and appreciating the beautiful still water reflecting the sky and other boats like a mirror. It was as though we were living inside a painting. We walked to Il Forno for morning coffee and then returned to sit on the deck and take in the beautiful scenery. Jose is unbelievably hospitable, warm, welcoming, and communicative regarding hosting. I had accidentally flubbed the stay dates, and Jose was understanding and accommodating. He was beyond hospitable! Just beyond. The boat is also immaculately clean, well-cared for, and stylish. The location is excellent – close to Las Olas and yet quiet on the canal at night – plus free street parking nearby. What an incredible value – such a unique and wonderful gift to spend a night on the Rio!!
Debi Adams & Rich January 2018
Alex, Debi, and Rich are on the deck catching some sun…
Our trip to Rio was nothing short of amazing. From the time we arrived, Jose and Alex made sure we were safe and comfortable! Our every need was taken care of. The sailboat is beautiful, spacious, and immaculate; most importantly, Jose and Alex are at the helm of this beautiful vessel.
Debi having FUN taking photos.
The meals served were delectable plant-based meals that were presented as if we were dining in a five-star establishment—not being a vegan, I didn’t know what to expect but was beyond pleasantly surprised. The meals were delectable and presented as they would in a 5-star establishment. We were never left hungry.
Rich just loved the moment in Bimini, the Bahamas.
We were having lunch incurred the cost of Bimini Bahamas, next to the sunken ship. We took the option to sail to Bimini for several days, and it was an experience NOT to be missed. We snorkeled off a shipwreck and floated on rafts, all of which were provided. The island is small, authentic Bohemian, and unspoiled. Jose and Alex knew exactly where to go, and we were lucky enough to have them join us.
We started on this journey as strangers and have ended up lifelong friends. Jose’s wisdom, knowledge of his sailboat, coaching tips for health, and life story is certainly one you won’t forget. We love you, Jose and Alex, and thanks for making this a vacation we will never forget. xo
Lauren and Brittany August 2017
Our stay with Jose and Alex was nothing short of amazing. A girlfriend and I decided to book a last-minute trip to Ft. Lauderdale and planned to spend two nights on the boat with one day of sailing. I have to say that finding Rio, Jose, and Alex was such a stroke of luck.
My only regret is that we didn’t have more time to sail to the islands. The boat was beautiful, immaculate, and comfortable to stay on. Our day of sailing was one of the best days I’ve experienced in a while. We had perfect weather, could see and swim in clear blue water, and even saw a pack of dolphins and a sea turtle. Our sunset dinner was unreal. The meals that Jose and Alex prepared were unbelievable.
Everything was so fresh and beautifully presented. I’m still dreaming about the tofu stirs fry and the kimchi. And that chocolate bark! It has given me a new outlook on foods and a desire to eat fresher and cleaner (and reduced meats) 🙂 Upon our arrival, Jose and Alex were so kind to recommend beautiful restaurants and bars and even drove us into town each night to drop us off.
This will be a trip that I will never forget, and I cannot wait for another opportunity to come back to Rio. Thank you again, Jose and Alex!!! – Lauren and Brittany
Click NOW to book your sailing adventure.
October 2017
Christina – June 2017
This is the spot for you if you want the perfect vacation that transports you to another world. Jose and Alex are phenomenal hosts, ensuring we are all comfortable at every moment while still minding the sails. The food was incredible! Freshly made juices, salads, and even Thai-style vegetarian dishes pack so much flavor you didn’t know in vegetarian cooking. Sailing across the Gulf Stream is something everyone should do once in their life – or a few times if you can manage. Experiencing the wind at your side while taking in the ocean’s vastness is something you cannot get just sailing around a harbor or on a tour boat. This is the experience of sailing and the freedom that comes with it. Don’t look any further; if you are interested in beautiful Azul-colored waters, multitudes of marine life, and incredible sunsets/rises, then you found just the listing. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sun, sails, and wind at your back.
\Response from Jose – June 2017My dear Christi, Reading these words brings me a feeling of joy; I am genuinely grateful that you and your guests dared to say “yes” and have the trust to leave the safety of the land behind and navigate through the night to a distant shore across the Gulfstream and the Florida Straits. You are truly incredible! I cannot believe how much these quotes describe you! This particular one, by Charles Cook, reminds me of you. “Until you dare to lose sight of the shore, you will not know the terror of being forever lost at sea.” I believe life without courage and integrity is a life filled with emptiness! I’ve realized that you were composed of those two essential living meaning to life. Some of the best quotes I can find in my mind’s eye to describe the feeling I have every time I set sail are these…
“The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible. Still, they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.” — Vincent Van Gogh, Painter “It is not that life ashore is distasteful to me. But life at sea is better.” — Sir Francis Drake, Sea Captain. You are all very welcome back on board Rio any day!!
Book your sailing adventure.
Thank you so much for your kind words and, most of all, your courage, your love, and your understanding. Until we see each other again, happy sailing and safe journeys to all of you. Namaste, Jose
April 2017
Staying on the yacht Rio was supreme. The hospitality of Jose and Alexandra was just excellent, right from the beginning when Jose picked us up at the airport just moments after our arrival. The food they prepared for us was delicious, fresh, and healthy, so we can confidently say: “Rio, the Michelin star restaurant at sea.” Swimming with dolphins, diving, snorkeling, and seeing various sea life like sharks, rays, turtles, and so on was superb. He was sailing in the Bimini islands’ waters – another mega experience. Jose also showed us around the Everglades National Park and the city of Fort Lauderdale. He’s better at it than a professional tour guide.
Rio & Wellness On the Sea with Jose and Alexandra deserves more stars than any resort on the shore. We are delighted that we got acquainted with special people like Jose and Alexandra. They made sailing the Bahamas our best holiday ever. We take a deep bow of respect and thank you very much from Estonia and Germany.
Best regards, Marek, Priit, Errki, and Axel
Joseph 2016
Our trip to Rio was an extraordinary experience that was more than I could ever have imagined. My girlfriend and I spent four nights on the sailing vessel Rio while sailing the Bahamas – which was breathtaking. Jose, Alex, and Alberto became more than hosts and treated us as friends – constantly sharing their inspiration and wellness advice. We had so many great adventures and meals at sea that we will never forget.
She jumped into the water and had the confidence to swim and snorkel with the support and patience of everyone! We also learned so much about healthy eating and how to change our diet, which will immensely positively affect our health. The meals that Jose and Alex prepared were delicious…we felt an improvement in our health afterward, and \are excited to continue this healthy lifestyle. Rio was a very comfortable sailboat, and we learned much about sailing and boat maintenance.
We left truly inspired and feeling we had gained new friendships that we will always value!
Book your sailing adventure.
Kristie 2017
We weren’t sure at first what we were getting into when booking this trip, but after reading other reviews, we decided to book. And we were glad we did! Jose and Alex were excellent, as was our whole experience.
We sailed to Bimini on our first night there. This was our first time sailing; sailing under the moon and stars were gorgeous. While at Bimini, we enjoyed the beach and the Bimini culture and food. Bimini was a quaint, friendly island, and Jose and Alex were great fun showing us around. We had some rough weather on our way back, but we felt safe knowing what an experienced captain we had. Jose is also an excellent chef and makes delicious meals.
My husband and I now consider Jose and Alex friends and continue to have fond memories of our trip.
Leonardo and Marcelo 2016
LA MEJOR ETADIA DE MI VIDA!!!!!!!JOSE ES GENIAL, NOS AYUDO CON LOS TRASLADOS, LLEGAMOS MAS TARDE Y ESTABA AL FIRME, EL VELERO ES ESCEPCIONAL, GRANDE LIMPIO Y CON TODAS LAS COMODIDADES, LO NAVEGAMOS HASTA BAHAMAS CON JOSE Y ALBERTO, EXCEPCIONALES PERSONAS DE LAS QUE SE AGRADECE A DIOS POR HABERLAS CONOCIDOS. MEJOR IMPOSIBLE INFINITAS GRACIAS A TI Y ALBERTO, LO MEJOR PARA USTEDES Y EL RIO!!!!!!!!!
Ashish 2017
This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We had initially wanted to sail with Jose to the Bahamas, but powerful winds prevented us. Jose instead gave us a land program and a day of sailing instead.
His program gave our entire family exceptionally healthy food that helped us to lose weight and feel fabulous. I believe that we met lifelong friends and will always cherish the experience. Even if you don’t do the program and stay on the boat, it is a magical place to stay and sleep as you are rocked in this “cradle.”
The location is prime between the beach and some trendy shops on Los Olas Blvd. The bathrooms on the boat are a unique experience and are by a sailboat.
Radisa 2016
My family’s best adventure was staying on board Rio and Sailing to the Bahamas. Alexandra and Jose have gone beyond and above to make our stay on board Rio very comfortable. We have learned much about sailing, especially wellness and healthy food. But let me list a few specific things that could help future travelers: Staying on board Rio was very comfortable. She is a beautiful sailboat! -Sailing from Florida to the Bahamas was the best adventure of our life.
While in the Bahamas, Alexandra and Jose shared local secrets, beautiful beaches, and fantastic local food with us. -Food on board Rio was out of this world. We have enjoyed raw organic food more than we would ever imagine. Jose is not just a great chef; he is an artist!!! Every item was prepared with love and so much passion that we were left speechless. On this trip, we fell in love with sailing, Rio, with the Bahamas, and learned so much about Wellness and health for life, but above all, we have made new friends. Alexandra and Jose, thank you for everything.
Rodrigo September 2017
What a fantastic adventure. If you want to meet new people and experience them, this is a lifetime opportunity. Jose and Alex was nothing but phenomenal host.
After you come, you will understand better what I mean by phenomenal! I recommend booking them if you are not in a hush and have strict deadlines because mother nature will dictate your actions. But don’t worry, raining or sunny; they will make sure you have a wonderful time in Fort Lauderdale. Raw food was at a Michelin star level. A glass of wine was a cherry on top of the sundae. But in the end, it is all about the company, which is the package’s highest value. Thank you so much for this fantastic experience.
Hannah May 2016
Response from Jose: