WHEN ASANI’S CREW STEPS ASHORE, IT'S NOT ALWAYS ABOUT RELAXING AND NIGHTLIFE – SOMETIMES IT'S ABOUT GIVING BACK.
Life at sea grants many privileges, among them the chance to explore the world’s most breathtaking destinations. But for ASANI’s crew, days ashore hold deeper meaning than sightseeing or relaxing at beach bars. Throughout their inaugural Caribbean season, they’ve embraced a commitment to supporting local animal shelters along their journey.
For ASANI’s second stewardess, Tilly, helping animals in need through volunteering has become a heartfelt tradition. During her 11 months based in Turkey, weekends were spent lending a hand at Gocek Animal Rescue. “Whenever we arrive at a new port, one of the first things I do is seek out a local animal shelter,” she shares.
True to this spirit, upon ASANI’s arrival in the Caribbean and docking in St. Thomas, Tilly swiftly discovered the Humane Society of St. Thomas and gathered her fellow crew for a different kind of day off. They spent their afternoon walking the dogs, cleaning puppy pens, and giving cuddles in the cat sanctuary. When ASANI paused in St. Maarten for some downtime, the crew pitched in again at SXM Paws.
For ASANI’s crew, volunteering offers a meaningful way to step outside the yachting bubble and connect with each place on a personal, grounded level. Even a few hours can make a difference, enriching their travel experiences while giving something back to the local communities they visit.
Wherever ASANI sails next, Tilly will undoubtedly have another shelter in her sights. If you’re inspired to follow her lead, here are a few shelters she’s identified nearby popular yachting ports worldwide:
Humane Society of St. Thomas, USVIs
