In 1974 Dick and Joyce Doumeng, founders of the Bolongo Bay Beach Resort, agreed to charter the catamaran, Lady O’ Fleet, to take their guests on an All Day Sail to St. John. As Bolongo’ popularity grew so did the need for a bigger boat. The Sullivan family had one of the first catamarans to sail through the Panama Canal from Hawaii; Ho-Tei a 49′ wooden cat that carried 49 passengers. When the Sullivan’s decided to go back to the states Dick jumped at the chance to buy it. She was berthed at the Coast Guard dock on the waterfront for years.
Richard and David Doumeng, #1 and #3 son, ran the business and worked the concession selling pre-made sandwiches, Cruzan Rum Punch and one beer… Pabst Blue Ribbon! They’d say “Close your eyes and it’s any beer you want it to be!” The Sunset Harbor Cocktail Cruise was a huge hit with brother David and a host of other singer/sailors serenading the passengers as Ho-Tei sailed west to chase an unforgettable sunset. Bolongo always gave and still gives a complimentary trip to guests who stay for 7 nights.
The first Heavenly Days, a 53′ cat designed and built by Gold Coast Yachts on St. Croix, was delivered to Bolongo in 1988 and her sister catamaran (the one Bolongo still operates) arrived in 1992. Today you can still chose the All Day Sail to St. John, the Sunset Harbor Cocktail Cruise or the very popular, Swim with the Turtles Sail/Snorkel Trip to Buck Island.
In addition to regular trips the Heavenly Days has hosted countless weddings and receptions over the years. Bolongo’s expert banquet staff can produce a wide array of hors d’oeuvres and serve them in the comfort of a fully covered salon.