Testimonials
- Defiance Sail Charters
- Testimonials
Guest Reviews
Patrice; W. Newbury, MA
- 7 July 2024
Love seeing these guys every year! Probably the most beautiful boat under the sun, food is incredible, and Raff & Lisa are the best!!
Linda, NY, NY and Marblehead, MA
- 27 July 2024
We had an incredible time on a belated Father’s Day sail. Thanks so much for making it memorable Beautiful weather, outstanding boat and even better hosts!
Alexa and Sienna; Los Angeles, CA
- 12 August 2024
Beautiful whales!! Amazing people
Ian
- 18 August 2024
Thank you for having us for Uncle Dale’s final sail. Rest in peace Dale. Thank you for the memories.
Lena; CT
- 20 August 2024
So much fun! Came from Connecticut and had a blast!
Rich; Reading, MA
- 20 August 2024
Kef-Kef-Kef (Armenian translation; celebration-celebration-celebration)
Julie; Spain
- 23 August 2024
Alison; W Newbury, MA
- 24 September 2024
This could not have been more ‘Mom’!!! What a beautiful experience. Infinite love and gratitude!!!
Thank you so very much, Raffi and Lisa for helping us give Mom a beautiful send-off.
Sunset send-off. We love you, Mom.
Carol; Calais, VT
Such a special goodbye! Thank you so much!
Sara; N Hampton, MA
Robb; Denver, CO
- 30 September 2024
Absolutely wonderful day with Windfall. Thank you!
October 11th
We had a great day…Perfect birthday with a sunset dinner and a birthday kiss!
Ron; Cincinnati, OH
Ron; Cincinnati, OH
- 11 October 2024
We had a great day…Perfect birthday with a sunset dinner and a birthday kiss!
Sonya; Greenland, NH.
- March 20-27
Looking forward to seeing the new Testimonials on the website.
Sonya; Greenland, NH.
- March 20-27
We had an incredible week and despite some rain showers were able to see everything we could have ever asked for! A beautiful day in Hopetown, drinks On da Beach and a lighthouse tour. Dinner at the Jib Room, cribbage and golf on the boat. Nippers and Grabbers of course at Guana Cay and a beautiful sail to Raffi’s favorite beach @ Treasure Cay. We made friends with some turtles, rays and found some dolphins and even a hermit crab. Lisa absolutely spoiled us with her phenomenal cooking love We had a truly incredible trip! We love the Abacos!
Mimi; San Fransisco, CA
- 23 June 2023
“Never have I been treated like such a cherished member of the sailing boat “Windfall”. Love the colorful stories and life stories.”
Frank; San Francisco, CA
“You helped my seasickness so much! I’ve never been happy on a boat ride except for this one. You guys rock!
Stacy; Leominster, MA
- 1 July 2023
Thank you for the most memorable B’day ever! You guys are the best. See you in the Bahamas!
Beth and Jim; Danvers, MA
- 28 August 2023
50th Wedding Anniversary
“Beautiful! Awesome & delicious! Will do it again!!
“Can’t beat the ‘crew’ or the cook!! Great people and made for a great experience!! Will recommend to friends!”
Amanda; Danvers, MA
- 9 September 2023
Fifth Wedding Anniversary and Renewal of Vows
Capt. Raffi & Lisa – Thank you for an unforgettable 5-year anniversary sail. This evening could not have gone better! We hope to set sail with you again. Thanks for trusting us with navigating your beautiful boat. Many thanks- ????
Dominic; Danvers, MA
“Thank you, Lisa & Raffi for making this an experience we will never forget. And thank you for trusting us to drive your beautiful boat. We hope that you have a lovely sail to the Bahamas. We will definitely visit you again!” Lots of love”
Sandi; NH
- 20 June 2022
“Perfect sail – perfect support for a burial @ sea for mom & dad. Awesome!
Deborah; Peterborough, NH
“Sad but happy day. Bye Mom & Dad”
Dale, Sullivan, NH
“…great day Cap’t & Mate are perfect i.e.: barely there/very present. Thank you for your part in this day!”
Ellie; NH
“… beautiful memorial for Stan & Betty!”
Kati; Chicago, IL
- 28 June 2022
“Best birthday ever!!
How will John beat this in the future? We have to come back and are already looking forward to it! The most lovely time & conversation! Thank you for the amazing experience, memories and genuine hospitality. It was the best!”
Ila; West Hartford, CT
- 2 July 2022
“The most outstanding, lovely, pleasurable day we’ve had in recent memory. Thank you making us feel at home in your beautiful sailboat! ”
Kathy & Joy; Pleasant Hill, CA
- 15 August 2022
“This was as a wonderful treat – and adventure. Your hospitality & kindness was much appreciated.
Many thanks –“
Marlena; Cascade, MI
- 23 June 2021
Great experience. Lisa was the best! What a meal!!!
Joanna; Salem, MA Gloucester sunset, by Jodi
- 26 June 2021
“Traversing the sea -you and me- heart open, eyes wide, feeling the breeze tack, and pull, we came to see. We found ourselves strong and free. Salt of our tears, facing our fears, we’ve been through so much over the years. Watching the sun fade, we hope to stay as close as now. The days have more to give if we are ready to receive.” JBN
Isabel; Destin, FL
- 11 July 2021
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine.
Lydotta; Sarasota, FL
- 1 August 2021
Wonderful 40th anniversary trip!
This was so fun & just perfect.
Thank you so much for a great evening. You are the best!
Aidan; St. Daniel Island, SC
- 19 July 2020
Had a lot of fun & was nice ride and got to jump in the water, dinghy ride was fun too!
Connie & Bill; Reading, MA
- 31 July 2020
This was a 50th anniversary gift from our daughter and son. Had a great time, the Captain and crew were great!
Lisa; Gloucester, MA
- 19 August 2020
A special birthday memory on a boat we had watched for many years.
The dramatic skies were a special touch and the dinner truly hit the spot. Thank you so much ?
Ginny; Melrose, MA
- 15 June 2019
“Raffi & Lisa – thank you for the most fabulous day! The perfect cure for a long winter & wet spring. Love your life choices!”
Mary Pat; Columbus, GA
- 27 June 2019
“Memorable day on this beautiful sailboat with special friends – thank you!”
Stephanie & Tyler; Hudson, NH
- 1 August 2019
“We had a wonderful day celebrating our 10-year anniversary today. This marks our 2nd time sailing with Defiance. The day was perfect and the food was wonderful!! See you again on our 15-year anniversary!”
Diana; Plaistow, NH
- 11 August 2019
“3rd time was a charm. Thanks Capt. Raffi & Lisa”
Larry; Plaistow, NH
“Thanks for having us back!”
Samantha; Peabody, MA
“Thanks for the whale show”
Cyntia; Needham, MA
- 17 June 2018
Goodman; Brookline, MA
- 24 June 2018
Robin; Byfield, MA
- 3 July 2018
Isabel; Destin, FL
- 4 July 2018
Terry; Bradenton, FL
- 22 June 2017
“Gorgeous day watching the Tall Ships come out of Boston & intercepting them along the way.
Thanks for a once in a life-time adventure!”
Robin; Byfield, MA
- 17 July 2017
Thank you so much Captain Raffi for teaching me how to sail! And thank you Lisa for cooking me dinner and dessert! It was delicious!!
Margaret; Acton, MA
- 3 August 2017
Captains Raffi & Lisa, Thank you so very much for a gorgeous , memorable sail on my birthday from Gloucester to Bakers & Misery & Islands where I sailed myself decades ago. The Windfall is a truly spectacular boat. You were amazing hosts telling us about the history & fishing industry of Gloucester & treating us to a delicious lunch & many treats & beverages. A very special thank you for the little chocolate birthday cake & singing “Happy Birthday” to me! I had an absolutely picture perfect birthday today with both of you & Ed aboard Windfall & hope to return soon for another sail with you.
Joanna; Cambridge & Rockport, MA
- 6-8 August 2017
You catered to my every whim & gave me the perfect birthday. We love you guys!
Lorrie; Ipswich, MA
- 19 June 2016
“What an amazing day! This was the best Father’s Day surprise, Lisa & Raffi were such gracious hosts & so helpful in letting us all participate in the sailing adventure. Thank you so much.”
Monique; Gloucester, MA
- 1 August 2016
“You guys rock!”
Armen; Danvers, MA
- 4 August 2016
“The height of our summer!”
Lori; Jersey Shore, PA
- 5 August 2016
“10+ for family vacation!”
Patty; Westford, MA
- 20 June 2015
A peaceful blessed day with family and wonderful hosts! I imagine I am in heaven on earth. Thank you Raffi & Lisa!
Cape Ann Chamber, Gloucester, MA
- 26 June 2015
So welcoming – will recommend!
Nancy; Avon, MA
- 2 July 2015
I have never been on a sailboat in my life – It was the most peaceful thing I have ever done in my life! I plan on doing this again really soon & it will be with Captain Raffi & Lisa – Lisa you were great, loved your hospitality & stories. Enjoyed! Really a great lady. Captain Raffi, you are really great to listen too, love your stories & your easy ways about you. Thank you for being the Captain on my 1st sailboat ride. Loved every minute “Ride Captain ride upon your mystery ship”
Mrs. Jones; Boston, MA
- 5 July 2015
This has been the most amazing night of my life. Thank you for the Champagne sauce…the wine…the sunset…and everything. All our love.
Mimi; San Fransisco, CA
- 23 June 2023
“Never have I been treated like such a cherished member of the sailing boat “Windfall”. Love the colorful stories and life stories.”
Frank; San Francisco, CA
“You helped my seasickness so much! I’ve never been happy on a boat ride except for this one. You guys rock!
Stacy; Leominster, MA
- 1 July 2023
Thank you for the most memorable B’day ever! You guys are the best. See you in the Bahamas!
Beth and Jim; Danvers, MA
- 28 August 2023
50th Wedding Anniversary
“Beautiful! Awesome & delicious! Will do it again!!
“Can’t beat the ‘crew’ or the cook!! Great people and made for a great experience!! Will recommend to friends!”
Amanda; Danvers, MA
- 9 September 2023
Fifth Wedding Anniversary and Renewal of Vows
Capt. Raffi & Lisa – Thank you for an unforgettable 5-year anniversary sail. This evening could not have gone better! We hope to set sail with you again. Thanks for trusting us with navigating your beautiful boat. Many thanks- ????
Dominic; Danvers, MA
“Thank you, Lisa & Raffi for making this an experience we will never forget. And thank you for trusting us to drive your beautiful boat. We hope that you have a lovely sail to the Bahamas. We will definitely visit you again!” Lots of love”
Sandi; NH
- 20 June 2022
“Perfect sail – perfect support for a burial @ sea for mom & dad. Awesome!
Deborah; Peterborough, NH
“Sad but happy day. Bye Mom & Dad”
Dale, Sullivan, NH
“…great day Cap’t & Mate are perfect i.e.: barely there/very present. Thank you for your part in this day!”
Ellie; NH
“… beautiful memorial for Stan & Betty!”
Kati; Chicago, IL
- 28 June 2022
“Best birthday ever!!
How will John beat this in the future? We have to come back and are already looking forward to it! The most lovely time & conversation! Thank you for the amazing experience, memories and genuine hospitality. It was the best!”
Ila; West Hartford, CT
- 2 July 2022
“The most outstanding, lovely, pleasurable day we’ve had in recent memory. Thank you making us feel at home in your beautiful sailboat! ”
Kathy & Joy; Pleasant Hill, CA
- 15 August 2022
“This was as a wonderful treat – and adventure. Your hospitality & kindness was much appreciated.
Many thanks –“
Marlena; Cascade, MI
- 23 June 2021
Great experience. Lisa was the best! What a meal!!!
Joanna; Salem, MA Gloucester sunset, by Jodi
- 26 June 2021
“Traversing the sea -you and me- heart open, eyes wide, feeling the breeze tack, and pull, we came to see. We found ourselves strong and free. Salt of our tears, facing our fears, we’ve been through so much over the years. Watching the sun fade, we hope to stay as close as now. The days have more to give if we are ready to receive.” JBN
Isabel; Destin, FL
- 11 July 2021
A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine.
Lydotta; Sarasota, FL
- 1 August 2021
Wonderful 40th anniversary trip!
This was so fun & just perfect.
Thank you so much for a great evening. You are the best!
Aidan; St. Daniel Island, SC
- 19 July 2020
Had a lot of fun & was nice ride and got to jump in the water, dinghy ride was fun too!
Connie & Bill; Reading, MA
- 31 July 2020
This was a 50th anniversary gift from our daughter and son. Had a great time, the Captain and crew were great!
Lisa; Gloucester, MA
- 19 August 2020
A special birthday memory on a boat we had watched for many years.
The dramatic skies were a special touch and the dinner truly hit the spot. Thank you so much ?
Ginny; Melrose, MA
- 15 June 2019
“Raffi & Lisa – thank you for the most fabulous day! The perfect cure for a long winter & wet spring. Love your life choices!”
Mary Pat; Columbus, GA
- 27 June 2019
“Memorable day on this beautiful sailboat with special friends – thank you!”
Stephanie & Tyler; Hudson, NH
- 1 August 2019
“We had a wonderful day celebrating our 10-year anniversary today. This marks our 2nd time sailing with Defiance. The day was perfect and the food was wonderful!! See you again on our 15-year anniversary!”
Diana; Plaistow, NH
- 11 August 2019
“3rd time was a charm. Thanks Capt. Raffi & Lisa”
Larry; Plaistow, NH
“Thanks for having us back!”
Samantha; Peabody, MA
“Thanks for the whale show”
Cyntia; Needham, MA
- 17 June 2018
Goodman; Brookline, MA
- 24 June 2018
Robin; Byfield, MA
- 3 July 2018
Isabel; Destin, FL
- 4 July 2018
Terry; Bradenton, FL
- 22 June 2017
“Gorgeous day watching the Tall Ships come out of Boston & intercepting them along the way.
Thanks for a once in a life-time adventure!”
Robin; Byfield, MA
- 17 July 2017
Thank you so much Captain Raffi for teaching me how to sail! And thank you Lisa for cooking me dinner and dessert! It was delicious!!
Margaret; Acton, MA
- 3 August 2017
Captains Raffi & Lisa, Thank you so very much for a gorgeous , memorable sail on my birthday from Gloucester to Bakers & Misery & Islands where I sailed myself decades ago. The Windfall is a truly spectacular boat. You were amazing hosts telling us about the history & fishing industry of Gloucester & treating us to a delicious lunch & many treats & beverages. A very special thank you for the little chocolate birthday cake & singing “Happy Birthday” to me! I had an absolutely picture perfect birthday today with both of you & Ed aboard Windfall & hope to return soon for another sail with you.
Joanna; Cambridge & Rockport, MA
- 6-8 August 2017
You catered to my every whim & gave me the perfect birthday. We love you guys!
Lorrie; Ipswich, MA
- 19 June 2016
“What an amazing day! This was the best Father’s Day surprise, Lisa & Raffi were such gracious hosts & so helpful in letting us all participate in the sailing adventure. Thank you so much.”
Monique; Gloucester, MA
- 1 August 2016
“You guys rock!”
Armen; Danvers, MA
- 4 August 2016
“The height of our summer!”
Lori; Jersey Shore, PA
- 5 August 2016
“10+ for family vacation!”
Patty; Westford, MA
- 20 June 2015
A peaceful blessed day with family and wonderful hosts! I imagine I am in heaven on earth. Thank you Raffi & Lisa!
Cape Ann Chamber, Gloucester, MA
- 26 June 2015
So welcoming – will recommend!
Nancy; Avon, MA
- 2 July 2015
I have never been on a sailboat in my life – It was the most peaceful thing I have ever done in my life! I plan on doing this again really soon & it will be with Captain Raffi & Lisa – Lisa you were great, loved your hospitality & stories. Enjoyed! Really a great lady. Captain Raffi, you are really great to listen too, love your stories & your easy ways about you. Thank you for being the Captain on my 1st sailboat ride. Loved every minute “Ride Captain ride upon your mystery ship”
Mrs. Jones; Boston, MA
- 5 July 2015
This has been the most amazing night of my life. Thank you for the Champagne sauce…the wine…the sunset…and everything. All our love.
sabel with family; Destin, FL
- 19 July 2014
Diane, Vivian, Gina, Alan & Sterling; Southboro, MA
- 8 August 2014
Kappy and Charlie Wellesley, MA
- 9 August 2014
Emailed: 9/14/14
Raffi and Lisa,
I’m not sure if Charlie ever responded to your email…we were headed out of town shortly after our sailing with you. In case he didn’t, I wanted to let you know how much we all enjoyed our time sailing with you. Hanna (my 10 yr. old niece with the red hair) loved her “private sailing lesson”, and everything was better than we expected (and we had high expectations!).
Thanks very much for the photos, and we hope to sail with you again next summer or for a getaway to warmer weather this winter.
All the best,
Jeremy; Billerica, MA
- 22 July 2013
Best boat trip ever!