unable to afford, or loathe to maintain a boat, charter cruises provide the ultimate opportunity. And whether interested in a sunset sail for two, a cocktail party for 50, or just a hassle-free snorkling expedition, the trip need only be a two-minute ferry ride away. Located just off the Darrell's Wharf Ferry stop, Fantasea Cruises can accommodate any charter be it a corporate affair or a casual party, said the company's owners/operators Ken Dallas and Michael Peers. "Bermuda is a small island and it's becoming more and more populated,'' said Mr. Dallas. "The only way you're able to get away from it all is to take to the water and boating is a great way to entertain, or just relax and see some of the most beautiful scenery Bermuda has to offer.'' Although the company has been in operation for only two years, Mr.

Dallas and Mr. Peers have more than 50 years of sailing experience between them and it was this experience which led them to select their 55-foot luxury catamaran, Aristocat . "We chose the Catamaran because of its excellent charter capabilities,'' said Mr. Dallas. "The Aristocat is great, even for large groups, because she offers amenities and luxuries comparable to a large, exclusive motor yacht.'' According to Mr. Dallas, outside of all that she offers to those on board, the Catamaran's past is laden with intrigue. "A family in England had the boat built there but evidently fell into debt soon after,'' he explained. "The owner's nephew, however, had meanwhile become very fond of the boat and stole it and fled to avoid it being repossessed by the family's many creditors. The nephew sailed the Aristocat down to the Caribbean where he remained until he felt it safe to return to England.

However, for some reason, we don't know why because he really was attached to her, he decided to abandon the Catamaran on his return voyage to the United Kingdom and she ended up in Bermuda.'' Today however, the Aristocat plays host to any number of visitors and locals, all of whom express their extreme delight that she was abandoned in Bermuda. "Chartering a yacht is a great way to entertain, sightsee or just have fun and relax,'' added Mr. Dallas.

"Bermuda is a small island. The only way to achieve privacy and appreciate the true beauty of Bermuda is to take to the water. Unfortunately, especially for many of our visiting workers, the high cost of purchasing and maintaining a yacht in Bermuda does not make it a cost-effective option, it's just far too expensive. So at Fantasea Cruises, we arrange a variety of custom charters for private individuals, companies and such. You can charter the entire boat either as a company or with a group of friends, or you're welcome to come along and join one of our parties at a very reasonable cost and we promise lots of fun. "This season, Fantasea Cruises will be offering a variety of cruises specifically suited for pure enjoyment; things such as happy hour sails, weekend beach parties and dinner cruises. And, combined with our affiliated companies, Fantasea Diving and South Side Scuba, we can arrange for any water-based activity from diving beneath the coral reefs to parasailing high above the ocean surface. We also offer live entertainment. According to Mr. Peers, the opportunity to experience Bermuda's beautiful waters in one that should not be missed. "Bermuda is only 21 square miles but it's surrounded by miles of ocean and it's good for people to experience it. Our specialty is private charters. We do morning and evening snorkling trips out to the coral reefs; we do sunset and dinner cruises and we sometimes go out to Hawkins Island for beach parties with complementary rum swizzle. We have an extensive menu and wine selection and we absolutely cater to our guests completely. Our main priority is that they have a good time and we can arrange anything to suit their tastes.'' Even if one is not interested in the art of sailing, said Mr. Dallas, a voyage aboard the Aristocat brings other rewards.

"Swimming and snorkling are both a great source of recreational exercise,'' he said. "And in addition, our custom charter features include diving equipment and instruction, massage, sailing lessons, kayaking, windsurfing and a number of other water-based activities. And, best of all, you get to get out and see the best parts of Bermuda.'' Those interested in finding our more about charter sailing may contact Fantasea Cruises at 236-1300. PHOTO Charter cruises are the stress-free way to explore Bermuda's waters