Going Green to Save the Blue

Charter boat Alternate Latitude was recently honored as the Most Eco-Friendly Sailing Yacht as part of the Charter Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) International’s Save the Blue Awards. Introduced in 2012, the annual CYBA Save the Blue Awards recognize all charter yachts that take steps to minimize their environmental impact and to ensure the future health of the oceans.

Going Green to Save the Blue
St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, November 24, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Alternate Latitude Named Most Eco-Friendly Sailing Yacht.

Charter boat Alternate Latitude was recently honored as the Most Eco-Friendly Sailing Yacht as part of the Charter Yacht Brokers Association (CYBA) International’s Save the Blue Awards. Introduced in 2012, the annual CYBA Save the Blue Awards recognize all charter yachts that take steps to minimize their environmental impact and to ensure the future health of the oceans.

Owned and operated by Steve and Deb Schlosser, Alternate Latitude features all LED lights, solar panels, a recycling collection system, and energy-efficient equipment. Only cloth napkins and reusable laundry and grocery bags are used on the boat. Further, Steve and Deb make all of their own cleaning products using white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and essential oils. “I am adamant about no chemicals,” said Deb. Guests also enjoy fresh, organic fruits and vegetables that are local and sustainably grown when available.

“It’s a challenge to source fresh and organic food from the Virgin Islands, but Steve and Deb do it,” said Trish Conan, CYBA International President and founder of the Going Green Committee. "A lot of yachts do green things, but with Alternate Latitude, it’s ingrained in the culture. Whether it’s biodegradable sundries or homemade cleaning products, the environment is always on their minds, but their approach to food makes them really unique.”

In order to qualify for the 2013 award, yachts must have adopted a minimum of ten green practices from a list of 30 criteria. Mandatory criteria include the reduction of plastic bottle waste by producing pure, filtered water made by boat water-makers or by purchasing water in large containers. Alternate Latitude was chosen out of 40 qualifying yachts during the Virgin Island Charter-Yacht League (VICL) 39th Annual Fall Yacht Show on November 4.

“We are thrilled that our small operation has been recognized with such an important award,” Deb added. “Some large companies are now producing very green, sustainable yachts, and we think that’s great. However, our boat was not built to be eco-friendly, but our practices make Alternate Latitude one of the greenest out there. We want to be an example that any crew can do the right thing.”

About Alternate Latitude
Built in 2001, the Voyage 440 Catamaran was the first catamaran ever to win Cruising World's overall "Cruising Boat of the Year" award. Designed by Alex Simonis and built in South Africa, it has a well-earned reputation for excellent performance, outstanding build quality, and singular style. Alternate Latitude went through a refit in 2012. To find out more, please visit www.alternatelatitude.com.

About the Save the Blue Award:
Introduced in 2012, the annual CYBA Save the Blue Award acknowledges charter yachts that make a serious effort to go green and reduce their environmental impact. In order to qualify for the 2013 award, yachts must have adopted a minimum of ten green practices from a list of 30 criteria. Qualifying yachts then compete for the Most Eco-Friendly designation. To find out more, please visit http://www.cyba.net/goinggreen/.

Contact:
Deb Crowe Schlosser 512-695-3527 alternatelatitude@gmail.com
Contact
Alternate Latitude
Deborah Crowe
512-695-3527
www.alternatelatitude.com
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