Charter

Hong Kong Rides Exciting Day and Overnight Charter Boom: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Hong Kong Rides Exciting Day and Overnight Charter Boom: 'Charter Issue' 2020

July 25, 2020
2:44 am

Hong Kong’s recent charter activity has been ‘insane’ according to a leading operator, with an enormous surge of people enjoying luxury yachts and the city’s remarkable scenery – and not only for day trips.

One of Hong Kong’s leading luxury charter yachts, the Numarine 78 HT is part of Asiamarine’s CA fleet

While those living in the likes of Thailand and Singapore have been unable to get out on the water for most of the second quarter of the year, Hong Kong’s yachting scene has never been so vibrant in spring, with the luxury charter market almost overwhelming its leading operators.

“The charter season in Hong Kong has been insane. I’ve never been so busy,” says Laura Verbrugge, a Charter Broker for Asiamarine and Fraser, whose sentiments are echoed by several other charter companies in the city.

“People love it right now,” she adds. “It’s like they’ve been rediscovering Hong Kong and the amazing beaches and islands we have here. We’ve also been lucky with the weather.”

Hong Kong addressed the impending Covid-19 situation earlier than most, announcing a closure of schools in late January and encouraging people to work from home, but the city never imposed a lockdown.

One of Hong Kong’s leading luxury charter yachts, the Numarine 78 HT is part of Asiamarine’s CA fleet

Unable to holiday abroad, people escaped the city on boats at every opportunity, resulting in a remarkable increase in overnight charters, formerly a rarity in Hong Kong.

“As people were not allowed to travel, they decided to try charters, many overnight. Families with kids booked for two, three, four or five nights, and they loved it,” says Verbrugge, who estimates overnight charters have made up 40 per cent of the company’s charter business in the Covid-19 era, compared to single-digit percentages in the past.

“Hong Kong is now a real charter market, with people who can afford HK$1 million for a one-week charter.”

Covid-19 may have prompted people to flee Hong Kong’s crowded urban areas to the solitude and sanctuary of the sea, but Verbrugge says the market had been gradually changing before this year, if slowly.

The Numarine 62 is another of Asiamarine’s most popular charter yachts

“Over the last three years, clients have been asking more for overnight charters. They’re also wanting a complete package. Before, they used to bring their own lunch or wine and organise themselves, but now they want everything organised.”

However, Verbrugge believes the city lacks enough superyachts to cater to demand, with a Sunseeker 131 and a Sanlorenzo SL106 among the larger local charter yachts.

“Its great business now, but we miss good superyachts here. Our own CA fleet is very busy and we sometimes have to find other yachts for our clients, but it’s not always easy to find luxury motor yachts with the appropriate crew.”

ISLANDS, BEACHES AND BOATING
Asiamarine’s day charters start from about US$3,000 for a sailing catamaran and almost double that for a luxury motor yacht. Over the past year, the company’s central agency list has been boosted by a Sunseeker Predator 74 and the 99ft Lady Lorraine, a Turkey-built sailing yacht with a day charter capacity of 35.

Laura Verbrugge, Charter Broker for Asiamarine and Fraser

Other CAs include the purple-hulled Numarine 78 Hardtop, Numarine 62 Flybridge, Absolute 50 and Pershing 50 motor yachts, and a Leopard 48 sailing catamaran.

“The Numarine yachts have everything including an outdoor cinema and great crews who have been with the boats for a few years. People also love the Sunseeker, which is a fantastic new boat and the opening sunroof is just amazing,” Verbrugge says.

“Lady Lorraine is a rare product, unique in Hong Kong for this type of yacht and size. She’s absolutely stunning and very popular, with lots of toys including a trampoline, kayaks, fishing gear and so on.”

Lamma Island, Po Toi and Sai Kung are among popular destinations for day trips, while Double Haven is a favourite for longer journeys.

A trampoline is among many toys on Lady Lorraine, a 99ft Turkish gulet for up to 35 guests on day trips

Asiamarine’s sample itineraries include the Ninepin islands off Clearwater Bay for a swim and exploring caves, then Millionaire’s Bay (Nam Fung Wan) in Sai Kung Country Park for lunch, swimming, beach time and wakesurfing, before cruising back to Central at sunset.

A sample three-day, two-night trip includes the Ninepins, lunch at a local seafood restaurant on High Island, then overnight at Double Haven on day one. Day two includes Sai Kung’s Tai Long and Long Ke beaches and the night in Millionaire’s Bay, before a morning cruise of the Basalt and Bluff islands in the UNESCO Global Geopark, and back to Central.

Verbrugge says a personal, tailored service has resulted in strong client loyalty, and that she keeps some secret itineraries and reserves some unique experiences for her VIP clients.

“Our clients trust us and our professionalism. We know them well, what they need, what they like, and we’re dedicated to them and their experience every time. Our full-time crew have been with us for a long time, so they also remember our clients and their habits, which makes a huge difference,” she says.

A stunning Sunseeker Predator 74 is a new addition to Asiamarine’s charter central agency listing

“We offer a real charter service, with five-star hospitality, expert crew, tailor-made itineraries, flexible timings and arrangements for special occasions.”

Yachts and service aside, Verbrugge says she genuinely enjoys seeing how much guests enjoy themselves on trips, long or short.

“They see how good it is to be on the water, cruising and totally escaping from their routine. They love waking up to a sunrise on a remote island in Sai Kung with only the sound of the sea, really feeling like they’re on holiday. They’re also rediscovering the many faces of Hong Kong, especially its incredible islands and beaches.”

RIDING THE CHARTER WAVE
NextWave Charters is one of Hong Kong’s biggest charter companies with a selection of more than 50 yachts ranging from a 22ft Heyday wakeboat to a Sunseeker 131 Yacht, which charters from over US$30,000 per day.

The Sunseeker 131 is still Hong Kong’s largest yacht available for day charters and often used for special occasions

NextWave is the central agent for the Sunseeker 131, Hong Kong’s largest charter yacht, while new additions to the company’s CA fleet over the past year include a 72ft Sunseeker, a New Ocean 88 and the Heyday.

Part of NextWave Yachting, the charter division offers a huge diversity of boats in terms of price and style, from the hugely popular wooden Chinese junks starting at less than US$1,000 per day to houseboats, sailing boats and motor yachts including NextWave’s own 65ft purpose-built Island party boat.

Popular destinations for day-charter clients include Sai Kung, Cheung Chau and the Soko Islands, and Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay on the south of Hong Kong Island. However, Frankie Chau, NextWave’s Managing Director, says more people have been booking overnight trips, with Double Haven and Tai Long Wan in Sai Kung among the favourite places to stay.

“We’ve been so busy this year,” Chau says. “Although most of our charter bookings are day trips, there has been a growing demand for overnight charter this year. Clients are enjoying exploring more remote locations in Hong Kong and spending the night onboard.”

The NextWave Island is a purpose-built party boat for up to 60 guests at anchor

NextWave is also the go-to company for water toys in Hong Kong where it’s the dealer for a huge number of brands including JetSurf, Seabob, Lift, Belassi, Aquaglide, Zapata, JetXtender, Jetovator, Red Shark Bikes, Seabreacher and Oxoon.

“Rental of water toys is our number one charter request. Having a great selection of toys makes every trip so much more fun and memorable. We have big slides, ocean pools, Seabobs, paddleboards, kayaks, jetskis, and all sorts of inflatables and floaties,” says Chau, who adds that NextWave can also can provide certified life guards among the crew for extra safety and peace of mind for family trips with children.

NextWave also has a lot of experience creating tailored charter packages and special onboard events from children’s birthday parties to wedding after-parties, and even whisky-tasting events and productlaunch parties.

“Everything is possible,” Chau says. “We can offer special experiences, such as exploring remote locations or organising highend dinner evenings in a beautifully decorated house boat. We have a huge range of boats and our staff know how to accommodate special requests and occasions.”

With one of the biggest selection of boats for charter in Hong Kong and definitely the largest selection of water toys, NextWave is in a good position to ride the new wave of charter activity sweeping the city and says the demand is set to continue for a couple more months at least.

“We expect there to be a lot of charters this summer, as most Hong Kongers still won’t be travelling abroad much due to the Covid-19 situation, so many people will take boat trips to satisfy their desire to travel.”

www.asiamarine.com
www.nextwavecharters.com

The original article first appeared in Yacht Style Issue 54 (Charter Issue 2020) – see below:
To subscribe to Magzter version, visit: magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/
For more information or print subscription enquiries, email: info@lux-inc.com

Yacht Style Issue 54 Out Now: The Charter Issue 2020 - LUXUO
Yacht Style has released Issue 54 (July-August), its Charter Issue for 2020. Flying Fox, the world's largest charter yacht, stars on the front cover of the 208-page magazine, as the 136m megayacht prepares to return to Asia later this year.

Flying Fox: The World’s Largest Charter Yacht Is Returning to Asia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Flying Fox: The World’s Largest Charter Yacht Is Returning to Asia

July 22, 2020
12:23 am

Delivered last year, the 446ft Flying Fox is the world’s largest charter yacht, offering the ultimate luxury getaway for up to 25 guests in 11 staterooms. And she’ll soon be back in Asia.

By John Higginson

The 136m Flying Fox has helipads on the foredeck and sun deck

The 136m Flying Fox presents an otherworldly charter experience, with the kind of choices you can only dream of having. The helipad on the forward bridge deck is for choppers with a maximum diameter of 46ft when rotors are spinning, while up on the sun deck, there’s a bigger, more frequently used helideck for up to 59ft, designed for the owner’s Airbus H175.

However, the big helideck is much more than that. Not only does it have a purpose-built waiting room, but when the pad’s clear and the sun goes down, the whole area can be converted into a beautifully lit alfresco dining area with a dancefloor and stage for live entertainment.

“It’s a large area to play with and it can transform into a special event venue, which we’ve done for guests. Versatility is the essence of our daily work,” says one of Flying Fox’s two Captains, who typically rotate and head a remarkable 54-strong crew that includes former Olympians and British military, embodying the calibre of people assigned to look after such a yacht and its elite charter guests.

Since being delivered to her owner early last year, the 446ft Lurssen build with the wavy Espen Oeino exterior has been listed among the world’s top 20 largest yachts, but she’s best known as the largest and most expensive charter yacht, with a weekly rate from €3.5 million or almost US$4 million (excluding VAT and APA).

Julia Stewart, Director of Imperial, the yacht’s central agent for charter, says Flying Fox is worth every penny for those who can afford the PYC-compliant megayacht, which can have up to 36 guests during the day and accommodate up to 25 overnight in one master stateroom and 10 VIP ensuites.

Flying Fox’s enormous stern bathing platform

“Flying Fox is the most refined charter experience available and the most expensive, but every euro spent on a journey on board is definitely worth it. After experiencing this yacht, your vision of a luxury retreat will be completely different,” Stewart says.

“Above all, Flying Fox is about lifestyle, self-retreat and relaxation. When charter guests journey on board, it’s like completely escaping from the rest of the world. The world’s most experienced charter guests were demanding this kind of once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Flying Fox can feel like a small world unto itself, only she’s really not small. To comprehend the scale of the 9,022GT yacht, it’s worth noting her volume is almost double that of the world’s second-largest charter yacht (112m) and more than three times that of the third (92m). Lists and rankings may change and be disputed, but you get the idea.

Flying Fox, pictured by Velaa Private Island, visited the Maldives in early 2020 and will return to Asia later this year for its second winter charter season

Currently in the Mediterranean for her second summer season, Flying Fox is scheduled later this year to return to Asia, where she already has charter bookings. It will be her second stint in the region, having spent time in the Maldives during an Indian Ocean cruise earlier this year for her winter charter season, which was eventually
halted due to Covid-19 (see box).

Stewart says Asia holds a strong appeal for international clients seeking new destinations to explore, as well as those living on the continent who are aware of just how much more there is to be seen.

“Guests often demand new sensations that only secluded areas can offer,” she says. “The Caribbean is a busy place, but in Asia, there are so many areas, lagoons, islands and archipelagos to be explored. It’s like an unlimited playground.”

A stunning watersports and dive centre has its own drop-down platform that can also serve the yacht’s many tenders

TAKING OFF WITH FLYING FOX
If any yacht can take you anywhere in Asia in comfort and safety, it’s Flying Fox, which has an advanced medical clinic, a facility that has moved near the top of the priority list of today’s superyacht charter guests.

Furthermore, the multi-national crew from Europe, Asia, Oceania and South Africa include several ex-British military from the Royal Marines and Special Boat Service (SBS), the naval equivalent of the world-famous SAS (Special Air Service).

“They’re hired for both top-end close protection and their background in maritime security, important for both clients and the security of such a high-end asset,” says the current onboard Captain.

“All of our crew are highly skilled in their particular fields and we have a great level of expertise in technical diving, massage and beauty treatments of all varieties, medical personnel, aviation, hospitality service, chefs and fine dining.

Day trips can be arranged to picture-perfect islands and beaches, and feature a range of watersports including kite-surfing

“As for the Olympians on board, let’s just say that you’ll be served faster than you can imagine, and if you ask us to jump, we ask how high and how far,” he smiles.

Although Flying Fox can’t qualify for the Olympics, she can travel pretty far, with a range of 6,500nm, and is remarkably quick for her size, with a top speed of 20 knots.
Just as importantly for client comfort, she’s very quiet and has no vibration while underway or when using any of the four thrusters, another major achievement considering her volume.

“Vessels of this size are designed to flex as we move through the seaway, which can often create noise on the interior, but Flying Fox is extremely quiet,” adds the Captain, who has vast experience of the Indian Ocean area, from Tanzania, Seychelles and even Oman across to the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia.

BEACH HOUSE AT SEA
Guest areas start with the sea-level lower deck and the main deck, which features the 12m outdoor pool aft and 10 VIP suites with balconies. The bridge deck includes the popular exterior galley aft, huge main saloon and cinema.

The owner’s deck has an aft saloon overlooking the main saloon, offices, studio, beauty room, dressing rooms and forward stateroom with outdoor jacuzzi. On the sun deck, there’s a winter garden and jacuzzi forward of the main helipad.

Barbecues and covered dining can be arranged on the beach, whether for large parties or a couple

A central lift connects these five main guest decks, plus there’s an elegant observation deck a few steps up from the sun deck.

The calming, nature-inspired interior by Mark Berryman feels like a beach resort, with extensive use of bamboo, teak and oak offset by the lush greenery of large plants spread throughout the rooms and common areas.

The relaxed setting makes you feel like you’re supposed to walk around barefoot, before and after pool and spa sessions, or a zone-out in one of the outdoor jacuzzis.

“Flying Fox is like a home at sea,” Stewart says. “The warm, zenlike interior gives a really comfortable atmosphere where everybody can feel relaxed. The wood, trees and plants everywhere help you to breathe deeply, to really feel like you’re now out of the madness of the outside world. It’s a unique, agreeable feeling.”

The Captain agrees: “Both the interior and exterior have a relaxing design. It’s very much like a beach house, so guests immediately feel like they’re on holiday.”

Spanning the bridge deck and owner’s deck (top), the saloon has a maxi TV and is separated from the dining table by an artificial coral aquarium

TOYS, POOLS, SPA AND … CRYOTHERAPY
In terms of features and facilities, Flying Fox has everything you need and can imagine wanting on a yacht, starting with the 12m transverse pool along the aft end of the main deck. The pool is hugely popular with both adults and children, Stewart says, and the water – salt or fresh – can be heated or cooled in a matter of minutes.

Life at anchor benefits hugely from dynamic positioning (DP), a rare “It’s very much like a beach house, so guests immediately feel like they’re on holiday.” Captain, Flying Fox technological feature on a charter yacht that enables it to remain stationary without anchoring, for increased comfort and safety. DP can even be programmed to gradually rotate the yacht, such as to follow the sun.

“Despite her massive size, flexibility is the real strength of Flying Fox. If a guest wants the aft deck to face the sun all day, we can set the DP to track the sun for that perfect tan,” says the Captain, who adds that the system also opens up cruising areas by allowing access to nonanchoring zones that other vessels may not be permitted to enter.

The 22-seat dining table by the saloon on the bridge deck; natural wood and greenery dominate the zen-like interior

For those who want to do more than lie by the pool all day, there’s a superbly equipped 1,000sqft gym just yards away, while downstairs on the lower deck is a paradise for watersports lovers.

A full-beam garage for five tenders up to 41ft give an idea of the scale of toys on offer, while aft on the port side is the watersports centre with fold-down platform flanked by separate dive and kite stores.

Power toys include six jetskis, four F5S Seabobs, a flyboard and hoverboard, while tender toys include wakesurfing and waterskiing equipment, and a large selection of towing inflatables.

There’s also a foil board and a particularly wide range of kitesurfing equipment along with kayaks, SUPs, surfboards, fishing gear, wetsuits and protective wear.

Flying Fox features a state-of-the-art cryotherapy chamber

The dive centre is first-class, with a large selection of suits, tanks, compressor pumps and even underwater cameras, while a double-lock decompression chamber with three seats is among the best of its kind.

The yacht’s PADI-certified instructors can cater to all levels, from teaching introductory courses to supervising dives to depths of 100m.

After physical activity, Flying Fox offers a soothing array of ways to relax and unwind in its 4,300sqft, two-floor spa, connected to the watersports hub and monitored by multi-skilled therapists.

After water sports, the spa also offers R&R in the Finnish sauna (above) and Turkish hammam (below)

With heated limestone floors and louvred oak panelling, the spa’s centrepiece is a vast spa pool, with water that can be changed from steaming hot to icy cold in about 10 minutes. It’s ideal as a plunge pool following time in the Turkish hammam or Finnish sauna, while there’s even a cryotherapy chamber, the first installed on a superyacht and a firm favourite with charter clients.

On the floor above, the spa lobby leads to separate rooms for dry and wet massages, and a three-station beauty salon offering hair and skin treatments, manicures and pedicures. “Guests rate the spa as good as ifnot better than the best you can find ashore,” Stewart remarks.

The aft bridge deck and owner’s deck can be protected by sliding glass ‘windbreakers’ on both sides

OUTDOOR DINING, OUTDOOR COOKING
Flying Fox also offers world-class cuisine around the clock and the most popular dining area is on the aft bridge deck, where chefs at the exterior galley cook for up to 24 seated diners.

This showpiece cooking zone is fun for guests and a delight for chefs, whose hardware includes a Teppanyaki grill, tandoor oven, Josper charcoal grill, full-size rotisserie and pizza oven.

“The exterior galley is the favourite area of all guests,” Stewart says. “It’s the perfect social area to relax, socialise, drink and dine at the end of a busy day at sea. It’s great to relax at the bar and watch the galley brigade creating exceptional dishes of your choice.”

Ensuring guests from every part of the world are catered for and provided with the meals they want, clients complete a comprehensive document prior to boarding that covers all dietary requirements and desired cuisine.

The owner’s deck and sun deck each feature a forward jacuzzi; a cosy observation deck sits above the sun deck – see the helicopter through the hallway

Everybody knows a charter journey is about culinary experiences, so the head chef and his team adapt to all requests and requirements,” Stewart adds. “Flexibility is at the heart of Flying Fox more than any other superyacht because we simply can’t disappoint guests.”

Once dinner’s over, a walk through the saloon leads to the indoor cinema, which features a Dolby Atmos sound system and huge comfy chairs with D-Box motion technology. It also offers video games, while there’s VR technology on board, too.

Imperial has operated in Asia for over a decade, managing private yachts cruising in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, and charter yachts such as the 60m Arkley and more recently the 82m RoMEA (see
Charter, Issue 50). However, Flying Fox offers a new gold standard for the charter world, one that will be seen in Asia in the coming months.

The covered dining area can seat up to 24 guests; the exterior galley offers Teppanyaki, barbecue, rotisserie, tandoori, a pizza oven and two bars

“Imperial has always had the reputation for tailored service, attention to detail and constant control of all operations whether it’s new build, management, sales or charter. It’s true that delivering several iconic superyachts in the past five years has raised our profile, but our strength is the 24/7 dedication we apply to our business,” Stewart says.

“Now, on Flying Fox, we offer a yacht that combines everything you’d like to experience once in a lifetime.”

www.imperial-yachts.com

Yacht Style Issue 54 Out Now: The Charter Issue 2020 - LUXUO
Yacht Style has released Issue 54 (July-August), its Charter Issue for 2020. Flying Fox, the world's largest charter yacht, stars on the front cover of the 208-page magazine, as the 136m megayacht prepares to return to Asia later this year.

Silolona Leads New Life: Yacht Style Charter Issue 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Silolona Leads New Life: Yacht Style Charter Issue 2020

July 10, 2020
9:42 pm

Pioneer of Indonesia’s luxury charter industry, the 50m Silolona is embarking on the 2020-21 charter season with a new lease of life after emerging from a refit in May.

The 164ft Silolona (left) can be chartered in tandem with 134ft sister yacht Si Datu Bua (right), accommodating up to 20 guests

Turning sweet 16 in July, a revitalised Silolona is primed and ready for the 2020-21 charter season in Indonesia, having completed an extensive refit in Bali in May.

The first of Indonesia’s growing fleet of luxury phinisis, Silolona traditionally embarks on a major refit about every five years. And Caroline Payen, Silolona Sojourns’ Yacht Charter Manager, says the 164-footer now looks as fresh as the day she was launched by the Konjo Boat Builders in Sulawesi in July 2004.

“This time, Silolona is like a new phinisi,” Payen says. “A lot of woodwork was processed while keeping the unique Silolona style.”

The 50m Silolona, and her younger 40m sister Si Datu Bua have since been chartering in and around Komodo and neighbouring Flores, where they’ll remain through August. In September, they’ll travel east through the historic Banda ‘Spice Islands’ before heading north to West Papua to explore Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay.

After spending October to May around the country’s most easterly province, the yachts make their way back via the Banda Islands to Komodo for the May-August season.

“The Komodo islands are the natural habitat of the Komodo dragon and a World Heritage Site, and offer world-class diving, deserted pink-sand beaches, while the Flores archipelago has ancient cultures, textiles, world-class diving and scenic volcanoes,” Payen says.

“The beautiful Banda islands have amazing history and stately old Dutch mansions, and are the native home of nutmeg, hence the ‘Spice Islands’. Raja Ampat offers world-class diving and snorkelling in pristine seas, Asmat (West Papua) features ancient tribal customs and powerful art, and guests can swim with whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay.”

Like most large charter yachts in Indonesia, both Silolona and Si Datu Bua are fully equipped for diving, one of the key activities in a country boasting some of the world’s most diverse marine life. Itineraries are tailored by the Silolona Sojourns team headed by CEO Tresno Seery, son of founder Patti Seery and a naval architect who designed Si Datu Bua.

Patti Seery is renowned in the industry for developing both phinisis based upon her extensive interests and

Diving in Komodo; Silolona’s vast outdoor dining area; spicy culinary delights; Si Datu Bua’s gorgeous foredeck

Image Slide 2

Skylounge on the 164ft motor yacht Kudanil Explorer (left); sky deck on the 86ft Sequoia (right)

knowledge accumulated over three decades in Indonesia, her longstanding friendships with communities, and her passion for Southeast Asia’s art, history and cultures.

“Through our network of traditional villages and peoples, Silolona Sojourns sponsors traditional ceremonies that could not be held due to lack of funds,” says Payen, who adds that it also supports international organisations to raise awareness about the oceans and protect whales, thresher sharks and manta rays in remote islands.

Payen says the yachts and crew are so popular that Silolona Sojourns has had up to 70 per cent repeat clients some years. Chartering both Silolona and Si Datu Bua together is a popular option as it enables large groups of 16-20 to enjoy holidays together, with programmes customised to guests’ preferences.

“The crews are very kid-friendly and have an endless imagination for fun, safe adventures and experiences,” she says. “Also, our chefs specialise in international gourmet cuisine with an Asian flair, and can offer Indonesian cooking lessons upon request.”

Due to Covid-19, Silolona Sojourns is offering to reschedule any charter bookings within a year should a CDC Travel Health Notice of level three or higher for any country to or from the charter destination be issued, or flights be cancelled due to health alerts.

ALL SHAPES AND SIZES

Phinisis inspired by Silolona include the 65.2m Lamima, which was the world’s largest wooden sailing yacht upon its launch in 2014 and is among a range of luxury superyachts offered for charter in Indonesia by Camper & Nicholsons (C&N).

The 214-footer features seven large cabins yacht for 14 guests, and is available in Thailand and elsewhere in Southeast Asia in the northern-hemisphere winter.

“Lamima is one of our yachts that offer exciting all-inclusive packages, which are very interesting for guests as they include a vast array of activities and a true immersion in nature,” says Carmen Lau, C&N’s Business Development Director Asia. “Activities can include diving, yoga, trekking on remote islands and much more.”

The 46m Mutiara Laut can also accommodate 14 guests in seven cabins and has a 14-strong crew headed by Captain Andi, who has been with the yacht since her launch in 2009, while the 26m Sequoia launched in 2017 has three cabins for six guests, plus 10 crew.

C&N is offering a 20 per cent discount on bookings made before August 31 on the 50m expedition yacht, Kudanil Explorer. Built in 1978, the motor yacht had a spectacular refit for charter in 2018 that included the creation of eight 330sqft ensuite staterooms, each with a king-size bed and a private balcony with table and chairs.

Indonesia’s other iconic charter yachts include the 51m Dunia Baru, the famed seven-cabin charter phinisi that has been meticulously maintained since its completion in early 2014.

More recent additions include the 55m Prana by Atzaro launched in 2018 by Yacht Sourcing. The Indonesia-based company is also the charter central agent for this expansive yacht, which has over 9,600sqft of usable space across four decks and a remarkable nine cabins.

The 214ft Lamima, the world’s largest wooden sailing yacht, offers a grand way of exploring Indonesia

The 214-footer features seven large cabins yacht for 14 guests, and is available in Thailand and elsewhere in Southeast Asia in the northern-hemisphere winter.

Skylounge on the 164ft motor yacht Kudanil Explorer (c) Camper & Nicholsons

Indonesia’s other iconic charter yachts include the 51m Dunia Baru, the famed seven-cabin charter phinisi that has been meticulously maintained since its completion in early 2014.

www.silolona.com

www.camperandnicholsons.com

The original article first appeared in Yacht Style Issue 54 (Charter Issue 2020) – see below:

To subscribe to Magzter version, visit: magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/

For more information or print subscription enquiries, email: info@lux-inc.com

Yacht Style Issue 54 Out Now: The Charter Issue 2020 - LUXUO
Yacht Style has released Issue 54 (July-August), its Charter Issue for 2020. Flying Fox, the world's largest charter yacht, stars on the front cover of the 208-page magazine, as the 136m megayacht prepares to return to Asia later this year.

Thailand’s Amazing Yacht Charter Buffet On Show in Phuket

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Thailand’s Amazing Yacht Charter Buffet On Show in Phuket

February 21, 2020
12:59 am

Yacht Style checks out leading lights from the Thailand Charter Week, which showcased over 20 yachts from 48-135ft based in Southeast Asia.

Australian Bill O’Leary was one of the pioneers of Thailand’s yachting industry along with Englishman Andy Dowden and Frenchman Vincent Tabuteau, each of them arriving on the island in the 1980s and developing charter in the region.

Yachts at the first Thailand Charter Week in Phuket; Photos: Aaron Ross & As Credited

O’Leary and Dowden remain co-authors of the Southeast Asia Pilot cruising guide and the sixth edition was available at the first Thailand Charter Week in Phuket Yacht Haven, where the Aussie revealed he’d heard particular interest in this region when visiting the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show late last year.

“Thailand and Indonesia, in that order, are the countries that most people are interested in. This area is so magnificent and amazing that I really do think that it’s going to be the next big cruising destination of the world,” O’Leary said.

“When I got here over 30 years ago, I thought this is going to be populated by superyachts and other yachts within a couple of years. It’s three decades later and it’s only now really getting some traction and starting to take off.”

Rico Stapel, formerly of Simpson Marine and Boat Lagoon Yachting, has recently set up the B2B Yacht Charter Network (YCN), which he describes as a ‘sales system for agents and marketing platform for yachts’.

Musician John Legend and his family chartered the 106ft Demarest last year

“When I arrived 13 years ago, I managed a 69ft Ferretti which was the only remarkable charter boat in Phuket. Now, the size and quality of boats out here is steadily increasing. Up to about 100ft, the quality is already very good and we’re getting more and more superyachts coming to the region,” said Stapel, who exhibited the Riva 70 Aria Blue at Yacht Haven.

“Many of the larger yachts choose an international brokerage to represent them, and increasingly the regional and local charter companies are also looking for Central Agency listings. We are in a transition period right now from local boats having a multi-agent scheme to them wanting more professional representation by choosing CAs.”

An industry-only event, the Thailand Charter Week featured 21 yachts ranging in size from a 48ft Moorings sailing catamaran to the Norman Foster-designed Ocean Emerald (135ft), available for weekly charter from €95,000 through Camper & Nicholsons.

SAILING STRONG

Simpson Yacht Charter is one of Asia’s leading regional charter companies and showed two sailing catamarans, the Lagoon 620 Jyohana and the Lagoon 52F Blue Moon, the latter’s weekly crewed charter rates ranging from €14,000-23,000 depending on season.

The Lagoon 620 Jyohana is among Simpson Yacht Charter’s sailing catamarans

A 2011 build, the four-cabin Jyohana primarily did day charters in Singapore until its owner decided upgrade the interior and move the yacht into the overnight charter market late last year. She has been operating in Thailand and Malaysia since December, with key charter periods already booked up.

“As Jyohana is flagged in Langkawi, in the peak season she can do cross-border charters from Phuket to Langkawi,” said Reanna Wang, the company’s Group Charter Manager. “Her customers have often chartered cats this size before but in other destinations, so they’re looking to explore new destinations in Asia.”

Jyohana will again be based in Singapore from May to October, but with a focus on special itineraries to Tioman Island in Malaysia and the Anambas Islands in Indonesia. “That will be very, very interesting for customers,” Wang said.

Blue Moon was new when she arrived in Asia in early 2018. With five cabins, she quickly made a splash in the charter market.The Thailand Charter Week showed off the stunning scenery around Phuket

“She’s a fun boat, with kayaks and paddleboards, lots of games, and we try to provide an exciting trip for the guests. There’s also a small tender that can tow small kids on a wakeboard,” Wang says.

“Catamarans are popular because they offer much more space than a monohull of the same length and are slightly more stable when they cruise. Many people prefer sailing cats to power because they’re quieter. We have a lot of very satisfied customers.”

Fresh from a two-month refit, the 104ft Silverlining was the largest sailing boat at the show, where she was exhibited by Fraser, the international brokerage represented in Thailand by Asia Marine.

“Silverlining is the only four-cabin sailing boat of this size in this area and has qualified to be listed by Fraser, a member of MYBA, the most demanding association in terms of compliance,” said Vincent Tabuteau, Fraser’s Managing Director – Thailand, who was hoping to also show the 104ft Camara C, but her arrival in Phuket was slightly delayed.The 104ft Silverlining (Fraser) has a spectacular master suite

The experienced Captain and other crew members have been with the boat since it was built from an aluminium hull made in China and finished in Thailand in 2011, before the owner sailed it around the world for several years. Now with a new owner, the four-cabin yacht has new investment with the aim of attracting high-end charter guests.

“She’s in immaculate condition, super safe, great for families, has an experienced crew and a large platform in the back with a selection of water toys,” Tabuteau says. “There’s no real equivalent in Asia, so she should do well.”

MAJOR MOTOR YACHTS

Ocean Emerald is a star of any show she attends in the region and remains “very busy” as a charter yacht, according to Nicole Terry of Camper & Nicholsons. The spectacular four-deck motor yacht showed off a refurbished interior with new carpets, wall fabrics and furniture, the latest investment by owner Nigel Plaskett, who stays closely involved with his boat’s charter business.The sun deck on Ocean Emerald, chartered by Camper & Nicholsons

The yacht has a great sun deck with forward jacuzzi, plus a gym, while there are indoor and outdoor dining areas on both the main and upper decks to enjoy food prepared by outstanding French and Thai chefs. There’s also a fantastic selection of water toys, which were on display at Yacht Haven.

“The yacht, service and cuisine on Ocean Emerald are the same level as experienced charter guests are used to in the Med,” Terry says.

Ocean Emerald sleeps up to 12 guests in a main deck-master suite – with two balconies – and up to four lower-deck cabins, including a double with two Pullmans. The two forward cabins can even be combined to make a ‘second master suite’, with beds in one room rearranged into an L-shaped sofa. It’s important to have the option of two comparable ‘master suites’, according to Terry, for when the yacht is chartered by two families.The new-look saloon on the 135ft Ocean Emerald

The yacht has up to 11 crew and is based in Phuket from December to April and for the rest of the year in the Gulf of Thailand, where home base is Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Pattaya. From June to September, she’s also available in the Anambas Islands (embarkation in Singapore), although other destinations like the Philippines are possible.

“Ocean Emerald has a lot of clients from Europe and Asia, and we generally like to charter for a week, although a lot of high-end hotels and weddings may just want it for a day or two,” Terry says.

The 106ft Demarest, the former Aquarius S built by Falcon in Italy, was exhibited by its new owner following the completion of an eight-month refit last August, when singer-songwriter John Legend and model Chrissy Teigen became its first charter guests. Based in Ao Po Grand Marina, the yacht has a flybridge jacuzzi and three large doubles among its five cabins, with two Pullmans meaning up to 12 overnight guests.

The 97ft beige-hulled Mia Kai, represented by Ocean Independence, also has a top-deck jacuzzi, plus four lower-deck cabins that include two large ones of similar size, with a full-beam master midships and an excellent VIP forward.The 97ft Mia Kia built in Turkey by Bilgin is operated by Ocean Independence

“It’s always a good selling point to have two doubles of similar size,” says Kirsty Halfacree of Ocean Independence. “It’s perfect for family charters, as two families can each have two adults in a good-sized double and their children in a twin.”

Often based in Yacht Haven, Mia Kai was built in Turkey by Bilgin Yachts in 2006 and fitted with Italian furniture and marble. The four-cabin yacht features beautiful woodwork throughout its interior, where the saloon leads up a step to a dining table and a portside bar/galley for guest use, as the Michelin-trained chef ‘Notty’ has his own galley on the lower deck.

The seven crew also include engineer ‘Mhoo’, a keen fisherman who encourages guests to trawl for large fish while underway, and Captain Chris Green, who has lived in Phuket for a decade, speaks English, French and Thai, and holds a 200-tonne RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean licence.

Mia Kai is well also well equipped with toys including a rib, jetski, waterskis, wakeboard, kneeboard, paddleboard, inflatable sea kayaks, a T-dock and other inflatables, plus snorkelling and fishing equipment.Aveline, chartered by Northrop & Johnson, offers two ‘master cabins’

Northrop & Johnson, represented by Phuket-based Charter Manager Lies Sol, exhibited two yachts including the 103ft Aveline, built in Italy by Maiora. Thai-flagged and put into charter for the first time by her Malaysian owner, the four-cabin yacht has been well kept and is suitable for families and overnight charters, as well as day charters for up to 12 guests.

Like Ocean Emerald and Mia Kai, Aveline offers two big ‘master cabins’, convenient for two families. She’s very well equipped for toys, with a new jetski, two tenders, kayaks and a new inflatable swimming pool that can be attached to the swim platform.

Northrop & Johnson also represents the Sunseeker 86 MaXxx, which has four cabins and a jacuzzi on the flybridge. Following an extensive refit, she features a new tender, jetski, water maker and AV system, plus full Wi-Fi and SAT TV, and can charter between Phuket and Langkawi, as well as to Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago.

VARIETY THE SPICE OF THAILAND

Yacht Sourcing showcased its three Central Agency listings in Thailand – the 95ft Lady Eileen II built in Taiwan, the Azimut 80 Mirage from Italy and the 90ft Maha Bhetra, a traditional wooden motor yacht unlike any other at Yacht Haven, her home port.Designed by Amanpuri architect Ed Tuttle and chartered by Yacht Sourcing, the 90ft Maha Bhetra was built in Phuket and is unlike any other boat at Yacht Haven, her home port

Designed by Amanpuri architect Ed Tuttle, Maha Bhetra was built in Phuket of hardwood with teak flooring, and delivered in 1994. Usually based at Yacht Haven, the yacht typically charters around Phuket and north to the Similan and Surin islands.

The two-deck yacht features three elegant cabins on the main deck, plus a cosy bench and table in the bow, while the upper deck features the main saloon and dining areas, plus an open lounge forward. The saloon is open on all four sides and makes the most of the area’s good weather, with transparent blinds only used in case of rain or excessive wind.

The 89ft, three-cabin Ajao has only been chartering from Phuket since last year, having undergone an eight-month refit in Boat Lagoon in 2018 after arriving from Miami.Formerly in Miami, the 89ft, three-cabin Ajao has been chartering from Phuket since 2018; Photos: Ajao Cruises

Featuring six crew including cruise director Detlef Sarrazin, a Phuket resident for over two decades, the 1989 Baglietto build is among only a few charter yachts in the area properly geared up for scuba diving, with tanks and a compressor, and is also equipped for game fishing.

The yacht can charter to Malaysia and Myanmar, yet most business so far has been day charters around Phuket catering for up to 30 guests at a time, with toys including two motor dinghies, two kayaks, a paddleboard and snorkelling gear.Foredeck of the 74ft, one-cabin Chowa, designed and built in Korea

Built by Splo Yachts in Korea and finished in Thailand, the 74ft Chowa – Korean for ‘I like’ – is a one-cabin, bronze-coloured motor yacht featuring unconventional design inside and out. Her point of difference is the lower deck, which is dominated by a large entertainment zone with a huge Samsung TV and bar.

Based in Ao Po Grand Marina and focused on day charters, Chowa and her orange-clad crew can cater for up to 50 guests – who benefit from the yacht’s stabilisers – although she has occasionally done overnight charters when guests stayed at hotels or resorts.

If variety is the spice of life, Phuket’s charter fleet is fairly tasty right now, with choice increasing year by year.

www.thaiyachtingbusinessassociation.com

The original article appears in Yacht Style Issue 51. Email subscribe@lux-inc.com for print subscription enquiries or subscribe to the Magzter version at: www.magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/

Yacht Style Issue 51: 'The Personalities Issue' Is Out Now!
The latest Yacht Style features a bumper version of 'Asia's Top Yachting Personalities' and a review of the stunning, HK-owned Pershing 140.

Dunia Baru Offers Charter Guests Chance to See Indonesia’s Big Five

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Dunia Baru Offers Charter Guests Chance to See Indonesia’s Big Five

February 17, 2020
1:02 am

The 51m phinisi Dunia Baru offers a superyacht safari in Indonesia that enables guests to track down a local version of the ‘big five’.

In the animal kingdom, the term ‘big five’ was coined in Africa to define the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo. Dunia Baru, the 51m phinisi launched in December 2013 , now offers charter guests a ‘superyacht safari’ in Indonesia with the chance to see another ‘big five’ – Komodo dragons, manta rays, fruit bats, whale sharks and sea turtles.The 51m Dunia Baru exploring Komodo; Photo: Tom van Oossanen

Dunia Baru, the 51m phinisi launched in December 2013, now offers charter guests a ‘superyacht safari’ in Indonesia with the chance to see another ‘big five’ – Komodo dragons, manta rays, fruit bats, whale sharks and sea turtles.

The itinerary starts in Maumere, which is a 1hr 25min flight east from Bali’s main international airport of Denpasar and sits on the north coast of East Nusa Tenggara province, home also to Komodo National Park. Dunia Baru’s smiling crew will meet you at the airport and transfer you by private shuttle to where the yacht awaits at anchor.

The yacht, which has a crew of 18 and caters to 14 guests, can first travel northeast to nearby Pulau Babi, where guests can start exploring the clear waters for the deep crack in the tectonic plate that was exposed by the 1992 earthquake and tsunami. A geological wonder, this rupture had devastating effects for the local inhabitants, many of whom live on the shoreline.

DRAGONS AND MANTAS IN KOMODO

Although the island of Komodo itself is set to close to visitors for a period of environmental recovery in 2020, other nearby islands such as Rinca, also home to the famous Komodo dragon, remain open.Being able to see Komodo dragons is a highlight of any venture to Komodo National Park; Photo: Tim Thomas, Jampacked Media

Step ashore and step back in time to a prehistoric age as you track Komodo dragons in their natural habitat. This incredible ancient lizard bares shark-like teeth and can produce a poisonous venom that could put a swift end to your adventuring, so Dunia Baru’s crew will ensure you make use of one of the experienced park ranger guides who are experts in Komodo behaviour and full of factual anecdotes.

The waters of the Komodo National Park are also a likely location to see manta rays. Reaching up to 7m in width, these graceful and exotic creatures glide through the water in truly mesmerising fashion. Indonesia is somewhat of a sanctuary for these gigantic cartilaginous fish and they can be seen when scuba diving or even just while snorkelling.

A scuba dive here could also result in a meeting with a black-tip reef shark. Usually found in waters only a few metres deep, you may even spot one swimming close to shore. Typically timid, this shark is not considered a danger to humans, although it can become a bit feisty if roused by food.Komodo National Park waters are a good place to see manta rays

After sailing to West Nusa Tenggara, the afternoon can be spent exploring the collapsed volcano of Satonda, which now holds a tranquil lake at its centre – ideal for a kayak or paddleboard.

Flying Fox fruit bats are rarely seen in the middle of the day and it’s at dusk that this island comes to life. The sky becomes filled with thousands of these bird-like mammals, some boasting a wingspan of 1.5m. The best view is from Dunia Baru’s aft deck or foredeck while the yacht sits at anchor.

Nearby is the much larger island of Moyo (also known as Mojo), which is worth a visit for the trek to Mata Jitu waterfall, which can also be reached by motorbike with an experienced guide. Hidden in the forest, this ancient natural wonder was formed millions of years ago and cascades over several pools.Fruit bats, some boasting a wingspan of 1.5m, generally appear at dusk

WHALE SHARKS IN SUMBAWA

Whale sharks are seasonal and migratory to Indonesia. However, your best chance of a face-to-face meeting with these smiling giants of the sea is to search beneath a Bagan, a traditional Indonesian fishing boat. Whale sharks are known to be attracted to these and the associated fishing activity, with Sumbawa, southeast of Moyo, renowned as a popular spot.

To be sure of an encounter, Dunia Baru’s crew will happily take the tender to investigate the whereabouts of any whale sharks, conversing with local fisherman to find out where they’ve most recently been sighted.In Indonesia, whale sharks are seasonal and migratory, with Sumbawa, southeast of Moyo, one of the most popular places to spot these beautiful creatures

Any trip can also include the south of Lombok, east of Bali, as well as the Gili Islands, off Lombok’s northwest coast. A gentle snorkel off the beaches is very likely to deliver a meeting with a turtle. In fact, Dunia Baru guarantees it.

On Gili Trawangan, the biggest of the three Gili Islands, there’s a turtle hatchery that can be visited if you’d like to know more about the life of the turtles in this region and what’s being done to maintain their numbers. However, if you want an encounter of your own, head for the shores off the east coast.Sea turtles can be spotted around the Gili Islands

After the superyacht safari, it’s time to disembark in Bali where you may want to spend a few days indulging and recuperating at one of the many luxurious spa hotels before your onward travel home.

The Indonesians are internationally renowned for their massage therapies, which blend Chinese and Ayurvedic methods to heal, calm and revitalise. In fact, why not wind down such a trip by coming up with your own ‘big five’ massage treatments …

www.duniabaru.com

Yacht Style Issue 51: 'The Personalities Issue' Is Out Now!
The latest Yacht Style features a bumper version of 'Asia's Top Yachting Personalities' and a review of the stunning, HK-owned Pershing 140.

Lady Azul Enjoys Strong Charter Demand in Asia Following Refit

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Lady Azul Enjoys Strong Charter Demand in Asia Following Refit

January 16, 2020
1:08 am

Lady Azul has an upgraded exterior and interior, a refurbished beach club, plus a new gym, tender and toys – including a 15m sea pool.

Lady Azul has completed three back-to-back charters in Asia following a spectacular refit that only concluded at the end of 2019. Built in 2001 by Heesen, the 129-footer is a Dutch-pedigree, full-displacement super yacht, renowned for her magnificent sleek lines, timeless elegance and luxurious living areas.Lady Azul’s recent refit was followed by multiple charter bookings

Last year, Lady Azul took on new owners who embarked on a total refit including complete exterior paint work and total interior refurbishment; new air-conditioning, frequency converter, water-makers, AV system and navigational equipment; and a refurbished beach club that includes a new air-conditioned gym with a sea view.

Lady Azul now also offers her guests a new 5.5m Williams Dieseljet Tender, two new Seabobs, a fully equipped dive centre and a 15m custom-made, inflatable netted lap pool.

The ‘new-look’ Lady Azul features a spectacular beach club and new toys

True to her build, Lady Azul was designed with luxury and comfort in mind. All her five staterooms – consisting of a full-beam owner’s suite on the main deck plus two full-beam VIP staterooms and two twins on the lower deck – have a beautiful and luxurious design, complete with en-suite bathrooms and hostess call buttons.

Under the stewardship of Captain Gerry Ross of New Zealand, Lady Azul’s crew strive to surpass guests’ expectations. Whether you choose to relax on one of her three beautifully outfitted decks, enjoy fresh culinary delights on any of her four indoor and outdoor dining options, or take advantage of her brand-new gym, Lady Azul has something to offer discerning guests.The 129ft Heesen build has an upgraded interior following an extensive refit

The owners and crew are especially excited to present the netted lap pool and fully refurbished beach club, which will enable guests to experience the pleasures of a private pool in a beautiful open sea.

Since January 2020, Lady Azul is offering charter guests the same beautiful yacht and excellent service, with added comfort, amenities and style. She will be cruising around Langkawi, Phuket and Myanmar until May before heading towards Singapore and cruising the Anambas Islands regency, the east coasts of Malaysia and Thailand, as well as Indonesia.

For charter enquiries, contact Matthew Gusman: matthew@ladyazul.com, +356 7925 2928.

www.ladyazul.com

The original article appears in Yacht Style Issue 51. Email subscribe@lux-inc.com for print subscription enquiries or subscribe to the Magzter version at: www.magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/

Yacht Style Issue 51: 'The Personalities Issue' Is Out Now!
The latest Yacht Style features a bumper version of 'Asia's Top Yachting Personalities' and a review of the stunning, HK-owned Pershing 140.

Prana Breathes New Life into Indonesia Charter Market

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Prana Breathes New Life into Indonesia Charter Market

January 4, 2020
12:40 pm

Inspired by the Sanskrit word for life force, Prana breathes new life into Indonesia’s luxury charter market with nine suites and 900sqm of living space, as Michael Howorth discovers

If proof was needed that traditionally built craft are playing an increasingly significant part in Asia’s luxury charter market, then you need look no further than Prana by Atzaro, launched in the middle of 2018.

Prana by Atzaro’s four decks offer 900sqm of living space

The Atzaro Group, whose other ventures include a luxury hotel in Ibiza, took great pride in both the interior and exterior details of this majestic ironwood and teak phinisi that was built by Yacht Sourcing in southeast Sulawesi – on the beach, just as her cargo-carrying ancestors were.

With a design inspired by the ancient boat-building traditions of the seafaring Bugis tribe, this two-masted ketch was constructed using those same time-honoured techniques. The yacht took 21 months to complete, from the laying of the keel, hull and bulkheads to finishing the superstructure, decks and soft furnishing.

Designed with luxury and space in mind, this remarkable phinisi superyacht offers guests comfort and facilities across more than 900sqm of useable space on four decks.

Guest accommodation comprises an astonishing nine suites, each with its own private en-suite bathroom. Fully soundproofed, the elegant suites are decorated with sumptuous vintage fabrics and contemporary linens in a sophisticated palette.

The Batavia master suite, arguably the yacht’s flagship room

Wellness is a key element in the Prana by Atzaro ethos, so the yacht even has its own yoga deck and two spa therapists to administer treatments outside, in-room or inside the peaceful Atelier de Beauté, using Anne Sémonin products.

Her charter appeal is enhanced by the immense social areas, including formal dining both indoors and outside, while the yoga terrace, a dedicated spa, a watersports platform and a cinema under the stars also help make her one of the most in-demand charter yachts in eastern Indonesia.

A SOURCE OF PRIDE

Prana is the Central Agency flagship of Voyage by Yacht Sourcing, the builder’s charter division, which hired and trained the crew, and manages the boat’s day-to-day operations. Voyage won Best Asia- Based Charter Company (Phinisi) at the 2019 Christofle Yacht Style Awards in Phuket due in large to the popularity of the new vessel.

The charter company’s impressive range of phinisis also included Lamima, Zen, Silolona, Alexa, Adelaar and Samata, plus motor yachts including the 50m Kudanil Explorer. However, Prana holds a special place in the company’s heart for obvious reasons.

Prana can offer its famous fine dining and five-star service on the beach of your choice

“Prana is the biggest yacht we’ve built and is a special project because of our ongoing relationship with Atzaro. And because we manage the crew and the boat, we make sure Prana and the experience on board reflects Yacht Sourcing’s principles,” said Boum Senous, co- founder of Yacht Sourcing and its Director of Operations.

“We brought a lot of modern engineering to a traditional design, so focused a lot on fuel economy, waste management – even the types of toiletries used – to reduce the impact. I also like the fact that some of the revenue will be used to help replant trees in Sulawesi. All of us are committed to growing this industry in Indonesia in the right way.”

At 411GT, Prana is larger than most luxury phinisis and measures over 55m overall in length including her elegant bowsprit and overhanging stern, yet this flat-bottomed craft draws just 3.7m.

Admittedly, her massive, 11.6m beam gives her a ‘fat lady’ look on the water and her big boxy accommodation makes her look a little top heavy as she sails along, but step on board and you’ll soon see that she’s is built for comfort, as you wander through the well-appointed interior.

To be a phinisi, the craft should carry seven sails, only two of which are carried on the mizzen or aft mast.

Spa therapists can work indoors or out, and even on the beach

Made of white cotton duck canvas, the sails are now often more for show than action, but fortunately the single Yanmar 850 engine and four-bladed propeller push Prana along at a handsome eight knots, which is fast enough around this part of the world.

We enjoyed a week-long charter in Raja Ampat, a remote archipelago covering more than 40,000sqkm and featuring over 1,500 rambling Indonesian islets. Famous for their Jurassic-like beauty, these islands are set among cays, coral reefs and shoals like rough jewels in a cerulean sea.

Located off the northwest tip of the island of Papua in the far east of Indonesia, they lie at the point where the Pacific becomes the Indian Ocean. The resulting currents stir up nutrient-rich water in the tropical climate, nurturing magnificent coral reefs and unparalleled marine life.

SPACE, LUXURY AND VIEWS GALORE

Prana is a sensational choice for a large group of family or friends, with accommodation for up to 20 guests in its nine lavish cabins, all air-conditioned.

On the upper deck behind the bridge is the sumptuous Batavia master suite, with its super king-size bed, double wardrobe, lounge and writing desk. Huge wrap-around, floor-to-ceiling windows open out on to its spacious 20sqm private deck overlooking the stern. The en-suite bathroom features a double rain shower and twin vanities.

The master suite and its private terrace are situated at the aft end of the upper deck

Also on the upper deck is the 37sqm Uluwatu VIP suite, which we occupied and has a super king-size bed, dramatically large windows on both sides and an en-suite bathroom. We were very comfortable living here!

As if more lounging area is needed, forward of the Captain’s cabin and the wheelhouse are four large king-size daybeds.

To starboard are the stairs up to the yoga deck, which is the equivalent of the sundeck and can also be converted into a cinema under the stars. Oversize sun loungers up here catch the ocean breeze and offer the best view of the passing scenery.

The main deck has a vast open-plan saloon with an impressive dining table for entertaining. There’s also al fresco dining for up to 18 on two long tables outside on the foredeck, which also features large daybeds, ideal for lounging day or night.

Prana has formal dining for 20, both inside and outdoors

There’s also another guest suite, Ambon, on the main deck, while at the aft end is a water sports centre equipped for diving, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, waterskiing and wakeboarding.

There are six double suites on the lower deck featuring private en- suite bathrooms, mini fridges, Smart TV and sound systems, although quite what the TVs are used for, no one on our charter ever found out!

Each deck features oversized gangways and large daybeds scattered around all the open areas, offering abundant places to retreat and relax.

A WINNING COMBINATION

Prana is a winner, not only in terms of yacht design but also in terms of crew and activities. The chef, Fauzi, creates Western and Asian fusion dishes with fresh local ingredients, paired with fine wines from the extensive cellar selection.

All are served by discreet staff, either outside under the stars, in the cool of the air-conditioned dining room or even on a white-sand beach, Robinson-Crusoe style, for true barefoot luxury.

After dinner, guests can relax at the open-air cinema or indulge in a pampering spa treatment. In the morning, as the wind catches the sails, take a yoga class on the top deck. Sun salutations will never be the same again.

Guests can enjoy stunning views as they practise yoga on the top deck

The 18-man crew includes a Cruise Director, Dive Instructor, several chefs, stewards and expert spa therapists; all on hand to deliver a seamless experience and to ensure all your needs are met.

A voyage on Prana by Atzaro offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a truly special part of Asia, with the opportunity to explore one of the world’s most exquisite coral reefs at Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from June to October.

December to April is the season to visit the 1,500 islands that make up Raja Ampat, which includes world-class diving, prehistoric caves and primordial tribes, while trips are offered to the Banda Islands (‘Spice Islands’) in May and November.

With fine dining, on-board spa treatments, unlimited water sports, unforgettable diving and the chance to visit some of the world’s most beautiful heritage sites, Prana encapsulates a special unison between ancient craftsmanship and contemporary luxury.

charter@yachtsourcing.com

Yacht Sourcing Develops Escape Marina Resort in Flores, Indonesia
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RoMEA Making Charter Debut in Asia Through Imperial

Charter / yachtstyle2020

RoMEA Making Charter Debut in Asia Through Imperial

November 4, 2019
1:15 am

Among the world’s largest charter yachts, the 82m RoMEA is now operating in Asia for the first time, exclusively through Imperial.

The 81.8m RoMEA – recently listed among the world’s top-10 most expensive charter yachts – is now exclusively available for charter in Asia, through Imperial, for the first time since she began operating in 2015.After several seasons cruising the Med and Caribbean, the 82m RoMEA is the latest charter yacht in Asia exclusively available through Imperial; Photos by Jeff Brown and Guillaume Plisson for Imperial

Imperial has recently been enjoying immense success in the world of megayachts, including as the exclusive charter agent for the new 136m Lurssen Flying Fox, billed as the world’s largest charter yacht and No. 1 in the Top 100 Superyachts of Asia-Pacific feature that appears in Yacht Style Issue 50.

Delivered earlier this year, Flying Fox was among yachts at anchor outside Port Hercules during the Monaco Yacht Show, where Imperial represented several yachts including the 106m Lurssen Amadea, exclusively for sale through the Monaco-based superyacht services company.

But for many readers of Luxuo and Yacht Style magazine, the news of RoMEA chartering in this region is the most exciting.

The decision was made after the owner, who had explored the Caribbean region extensively in recent winter seasons, decided it was time to visit more remote areas, with the Indian Ocean and other parts of Asia on his bucket list.Situated forward on the sun deck, the jacuzzi is flanked by large lounging areas

A provisional itinerary for both November and the first half of December included the Seychelles and the Maldives, where she’s already booked from December 20-January 11. From January 15, RoMEA is available for charter in the Indian Ocean and is expected to travel to the likes of Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Julia Stewart, Director of Imperial, is confident of the yacht’s appeal in this region following several hugely successful charter seasons on both sides of the Atlantic.

“For the past few years, RoMEA has been one of the largest and most luxurious yachts to cruise the Mediterranean and Caribbean. She’s also the most experienced charter yacht in Imperial’s Central Agency fleet, so she’s a reflection of our own expertise,” Stewart says.

“Her success is also built on the numerous destinations she has already cruised. Having explored most of the Med for the past four years, and the majority of Caribbean islands from the north to the south and touching the coasts of Colombia, the experience gained by her crew is highly valuable for all charter guests coming on board.RoMEA has a stunning beach club on the lower deck, and appealing outdoor areas on the four decks above

“RoMEA always amazes her guests and offers a different journey every day, and the recipes applied when she’s cruising the Mediterranean coasts or the busy Caribbean islands are the same for her first season in the Indian Ocean. We have no doubt it will be a fantastic opportunity and experience for RoMEA, her crew and our team. We’re really excited to show the capabilities of this vessel in this part of the world.”

SPAS, CINEMAS AND TOYS

Measuring over 268ft in length and 41ft in width, RoMEA has a lot to offer across her six decks, which provide a total volume of 2,312GT.

Powered by twin Caterpillars and with up to 210,000 litres of fuel, she has a range of 5,750nm at her cruising speed of 14 knots, which is a huge bonus when travelling the Indian Ocean and more remote parts of Asia. At full power, the yacht has a top speed of 16.9 knots, while at anchor, two Quantum XT zero speed stabilisers ensure stability and comfort.

A proud product of German giant Abeking & Rasmussen, which built this year’s award-winning Excellence, RoMEA features an elegant exterior and a warm, understated interior by Terence Disdale Design, which worked in collaboration with Imperial’s Build Supervisor team for the first time.

Disdale’s décor includes fine bronze, steel and glass, expert stonework, rich leather and exotic woods, while bespoke furnishings and unique works of art complete a coherent and homely interior.The big beach club has plenty of space for loungers and umbrellas, and a wide central stairway into the water, while a floating pool can also be attached

RoMEA houses 12 guests in six staterooms, comprising a huge master suite forward on the upper deck, and a full-beam VIP and four guest cabins on the main deck, while most of the accommodation for the 23-strong crew is forward on the lower deck.

The yacht is ideal for those who wish to focus on health and relaxation. There’s a great outdoor jacuzzi on the sun deck, while on the bridge deck below is a beautifully designed, fully-equipped spa, complete with a beauty salon and massage table.

Down on the lower deck, connected to the large beach club area, is a dedicated wellness zone or spa lounge with Finnish sauna, natural pebble flooring and a large jacuzzi.

Other standout features include indoor and outdoor cinemas. The enormous saloon on the main deck can be converted into a fantastic cinema with a huge projector screen to starboard, as guests watch from the enormous C-shaped sofa on port side.The enormous saloon on the main deck can be transformed into a beautiful cinema with a huge screen on starboard side; popcorn is supplied …

On the bridge deck, the covered al fresco area aft can be converted into an outdoor cinema by deploying a large drop-down screen, and even the lower-deck beach club has a comfortable lounge with a TV for a cosier movie experience.

The yacht features multiple spacious outdoor, covered and indoor social zones, all suitable for entertaining, including a beautiful upper-deck saloon that features a piano and three separate seating areas.

For getting about or just having fun, RoMEA has a 9.6m limousine tender and 5.9m sports tender by Germany’s Yachtwerft Meyer, as well as an 8.6m Pascoe Beachlander.

The huge range of water toys includes a Laser sailboat, four jetskis, Seabobs, inflatables, waterskis, a wakeboard, kneeboards, paddleboards, four kayaks, fishing equipment, six full sets of dive gear plus a large floating pool, great for swimming off the yacht in safety and comfort.The VIP suite is one of six staterooms

CAPTAIN AND CREW

However, most charter guests and operators agree that a yacht’s crew can be the determining factor of any charter experience, and this is another of RoMEA’s plus points, with a vastly experienced and diverse team representing over 10 nationalities.

Most of the crew have been onboard RoMEA for at least 24 months, including the Captain, who’s also a Divemaster with experience of the Indian Ocean region.

“Having been in the industry for over 20 years, I can honestly say that RoMEA is the nicest command that I have had. The interior is bright and welcoming, and flows easily inside to out. The layout, accessories and of course the crew work in harmony to create a fantastic guest experience,” he says.

“RoMEA has a great team on board, with a wide range of knowledge of cruising, sports skills, service hospitality and food styles. Our galley team is exceptional. Although a large crew on paper, they act and work as a small, efficient cell and whatever the client requests, we try to achieve in the shortest timespan”The gorgeous spa and massage salon is on the bridge deck, and provides a serene environment for rest and rejuvenation

Stewart is in full agreement that crew is paramount to a memorable guest experience, and emphasises that the Captain and his crew have quite a lot of Asia experience between them.

“A successful charter superyacht is nothing without the passion and expertise of her crew, and many of RoMEA’s crew have previously spent winter seasons in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia,” she says.

“They know the most popular areas as well as the quietest ones, and it all depends on the guests during their journey. We adapt our schedule according to their tastes, their wishes.”

PLANS FOR ASIA

RoMEA may be new to Asia, but Imperial is not. The company’s experience in the region started in 2010 with the 60m Lurssen Arkley, which Stewart describes as “the most popular charter vessel in the range at the time”.Upper deck aft is ideal for dining and socialising, day or night

Imperial’s more recent charter yachts in the region include the 55m Amels Lili, which cruised the Indian Ocean for a second successful season in the 2018/19 winter.

“With Arkley, we explored and gained experience cruising Thai waters, before coming back to the Mediterranean for the summer season. With Lili, the options offered to our guests had increased because of our greater knowledge of the region,” Stewart says.

“We learn a lot from these experiences, especially in the Indian Ocean as the remote islands are a daily challenge in terms of provisioning, fuelling, connections and so on. This part of the world is challenging, but we have to offer our guests the most unforgettable trip and we’ve proven we’re capable of great successes.”The 9.6m Yachtwerft Meyer limousine tender is an elegant transfer boat

The experience of Imperial and RoMEA’s Captain in the region ensure that itineraries for various destinations are available, but all involved pride themselves on their ability to customise trips and be adaptable, depending on the needs of charter guests.

“Routes and activities will depend on our client. Our motto is to stay available 24/7 wherever the vessel is in the region,” Stewart says. “Our location will obviously be in the most practical area for guests embarking, but flexibility is one of our master keywords. Guests are the priority above all else during a charter, as our goal is to offer the best possible experience.”

And the Captain is already among those delighted to return to a region known globally for its spectacular diving, picture-perfect tropical islands and diversity of local cultures and cuisine.

“For me, the highlight of returning to the Indian Ocean is the beauty and vivid colours of the coral and sea life. Some of the best dive experiences I’ve had as a Divemaster have been in the region. Manta rays, sharks and the opportunity of swimming with whale sharks are not to be missed,” he says.Bridge deck aft features an attractive al fresco lounge with large sofas, coffee tables and a retractable screen, ideal for a movie night to round off the day

“The Indian Ocean is a paradise of coral atolls and pristine water, and RoMEA is like a calm oasis, a relaxing hub from which to set off on adventure.

“Whether it’s diving, kiting, hydro-boarding, jet-skiing or exploring the cultural beauty of the area, guests will return from their day to the tranquillity of RoMEA, where they can chill in the spa or sauna or just take in the views from the sun deck. RoMEA is a great charter vessel wherever in the world she sails.”

RoMEA is available for charter from €875,000/week. Contact Imperial for further details: 

Tel: +377 9798-3880

monaco@imperial-yachts.com

www.imperial-yachts.com

Note: The original article appears in Yacht Style Issue 50. Email subscribe@lux-inc.com for print subscription enquiries or subscribe to the Magzter version at: www.magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/

Charter in Asia – Fun for the Family: Yacht Style Special 2019

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Asia – Fun for the Family: Yacht Style Special

September 3, 2019
1:44 am

A yacht charter can be the ideal holiday for a family, allowing you to spend quality time together in gorgeous settings – as long as you plan properly.

The family that plays together, stays together, as the saying goes. And there are few better places for the whole family to play than while on a yacht charter, which offers something for everyone.

The family that plays together stays together; Photos: Simpson Yacht Charter

Kids can frolic on the water toys and hunt for pirate treasure on the beach, with the yacht’s crew creating elaborate treasure maps. Meanwhile, the adults can unwind with a massage or in the spa, while the grandparents can watch it all unfold from a comfortable seat on the shaded aft deck. There are few other holidays that cater so well to all ages.

Tamsin Priestly, a charter broker with Y.CO, says: “On a boat, you have it all. The children are entertained, the adults can relax. What most parents really want more than anything is downtime with their family. No matter how big the yacht is or what activities you get up to during the day, you’re all there together.”

Perhaps the best thing about a charter holiday is that it can be a truly unique and bespoke experience, designed to suit your family’s needs. By taking just a few details into consideration in advance, you can have the best family holiday, making memories to last a lifetime.

Most brokers will tell you that the yacht’s crew is the most important part of the yacht. “It’s all about the crew,” Priestly says.

When it comes to family charters, you want a young, sporty and active crew. “You can tell a lot from the crew profile,” points out Gayle Patterson, a charter manager with Camper & Nicholsons.

If you charter with a family, ensure the crew and itinerary are children-friendly; Photo: Lady E / Burgess

Look for crew who have unique hobbies and additional certifications, such as a kite-surfing teacher who will be happy to jump in the water and teach the kids a new skill. Robert Shepherd, a partner with brokerage company Edmiston and former yacht chef, agrees.

“The crew can make or break an on-board experience,” says Shepherd, who places a priority on choosing a boat that is kid-friendly.

“There are some boats where the owners are older and the crew is used to entertaining older couples and aren’t very children friendly. Also, is the chef kid-friendly? I can tell you from when I was a chef that kids don’t want to eat what the parents are eating – or when the parents eat.”

A yacht chef adept at catering to children can create dishes that are both tasty and healthy, and budding young chefs might even have the opportunity to help out in the kitchen, donning a mini apron and learning how to cook their favourite food.

SHARE THE TOYS

Watersports are a major part of a yacht holiday, but the trend nowadays is to learn something new while enjoying time in and on the water – a skill they can take home or use on the next charter. While on board, the family could all get their PADI dive certification, for instance, or the kids could learn dinghy sailing.

Be sure to choose an itinerary and locations that offer a good mix of activities and downtime

However, this isn’t to say the water toys are just for the children. A lot of adults are big kids and will be just as likely to try out everything in the yacht’s toy box, from giant waterslides to electric hydrofoiling surfboards.

When choosing the right yacht for your family, consider which amenities are important to you, whether it’s the latest water toys or a cinema.

The chance to play outside and get away from the overwhelming stress and ceaseless technology of our modern world is one of the most appealing parts of a yacht holiday. And in this vein, parents can really create the experience they desire for their family.

Do you want switch off the Wi-Fi so the kids can be more present? Or make sure the media room is fully stocked with the latest video games and hundreds of movies for kids?

Either end of the spectrum can be catered to, so have your charter company or broker check what entertainment options, from board games to films, are available on a yacht you’re considering. Many superyachts have movie theatres with comfortable recliners or can create an outdoor cinema experience, projecting a film onto a giant screen.

What’s most important is that you spend time together

“Movie night has become a must-have experience,” Priestly says. “There is something about the nostalgia of everyone sitting around a big screen with popcorn.”

Entertainment options don’t end at the cinema. Some kid-friendly crew are renowned for curating epic themes, like a Harry Potter dinner party, which the charter yacht Axioma has conjured up for guests on many occasions.

And if the crew can’t provide, then a specialist like GF Entertainment can help, no matter where you are. “We’ve set up events everywhere from Australia to Monaco,” says Emmanuel Akintunde, the company’s founder and Managing Director.

The company can help you source the ideal entertainment to please the whole family, from illusionists and dancers to aerialists, or even specific requests like bringing the cast of the Lion King musical on board!

STAYING SAFE

Safety on board is a concern that comes to the mind of parents when heading out on the high seas. The good news is, it’s also of utmost concern to the Captain and crew. Many boats are already outfitted with security measures to make sure kids are safe on board. This can include gates that block the steps to the aft deck.

Safety on board is a concern that comes to the mind of parents when heading out on the high seas

Additional measures can always be added on to enhance the safety for small children, such as affixing a protective screen so kids can’t fall from the sun deck. This goes for the interior as well. In the cabins, a Pullman berth bunkbed might have a netting that can be attached so smaller children don’t roll out of bed.

“Make sure the yacht has gates to block the stairways and safety netting outside where it’s needed,” Patterson says.

When planning a family yacht charter, the location must be highly considered as well.

“Something people often forget to ask is whether it’s a children-friendly itinerary,” says Shepherd. “You need to think about what the kids will do besides watersports.”

Shepherd recommends that you look for an itinerary that includes on-shore, kid-friendly diversions nearby.

“I would always start by asking people what they want to do,” agrees Lucy Ritchie of Fraser Yachts, who says many clients want to have a holiday that includes cultural experiences where kids can learn about history.

More adventurous families might opt for a cruise to far-flung places like Greenland or Antarctica, where you can see penguins, whales and sea lions in their natural habitat. But Ritchie advises waiting until the kids are old enough, eight years of age and upwards, so they can truly appreciate and remember the experience.

With the right yacht, crew and itinerary, a family charter is champagne sailing

The key for a family charter is to keep the entire family in mind. For instance, will grandma want to clamber up the hiking trails in the Galapagos? There are some locations that will please everyone, of course, such as Thailand’s Andaman Sea, which has plenty of beautiful locations and plentiful family-friendly activities on shore, from rock climbing to visiting an elephant sanctuary.

After you choose your location – and the right boat with your favoured amenities and crew – the rest is easy sailing. Once on board, every detail is taken care of and you don’t have to lift a finger, except maybe to sip a glass of champagne.

A family yacht holiday soon becomes a family tradition and there is a multi-generational affect, too.

“I have clients who once came on board as children with their parents and are now starting to go with their own kids and bringing the grandparents along,” Ritchie says. A charter holiday is one trip that everyone comes back for, no matter how old you get.

The original article appears in Yacht Style Issue 48. Email subscribe@lux-inc.com for print subscription enquiries or subscribe to the Magzter version at: www.magzter.com/SG/Lux-Inc-Media/Yacht-Style/Fashion/

Yacht Style 48: The 2019 Charter Issue Out Now!
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Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special 2019: Hong Kong’s Great Days Out

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Hong Kong’s Great Days Out

August 28, 2019
1:55 am

NextWave Charters represents over 50 charter yachts in Hong Kong including a stunning Sunseeker 131, which despite its size is mainly hired by the day.

Like in Singapore, charter in Hong Kong is dominated by day trips, as confirmed by local yachting agency NextWave, which includes NextWave Charters among its various divisions.

The Sunseeker 131 Yacht, here used for a wedding, is NextWave Charters’ flagship

“We have 95 per cent day charter and five per cent overnight. Most of our charters are for the day, but sometimes customers book evening charters for special occasions such as birthdays, proposals and company dinner events, and they’re especially popular when there are fireworks in Victoria Harbour,” says Frankie Chau, Managing Director of NextWave.

“We also offer overnight charters for people who want to enjoy more secluded and remote areas that would not be practical for only a day charter.”

NextWave was founded by a like-mind group of friends in 2012 and today its activities include the sales of new and pre-owned yachts as well as high-end water toys, yacht management (Column, Yacht Style Issue 47) and even the organisation of MotoSurf WorldCup events in China.

Its thriving yacht management division has helped grow the fleet managed by NextWave Charters, which now represents over 50 boats in Hong Kong, arguably Asia’s most mature and developed yachting market. Models include ‘Western Cruiser’ motoryachts from the likes of Sunseeker, Azimut, Pershing, MCY and Sealine, a Lagoon sailing catamaran, as well as junks and speedboats.

Day charters and special occasions dominate charter activity in Hong Kong

“By leveraging our yacht management arm, we’ve been able to source more high-quality, well-maintained Western cruiser yachts than our competitors,” Chau says. “We have over 50 boats available for hire, ranging from a 23ft speed boat to a 131ft top-of-the-line superyacht.”

That 131-footer is a stunning Sunseeker 131 Yacht, Rhine, which is among the largest superyachts for hire in Hong Kong. Currently Sunseeker’s second-largest model, the four-deck 131 has an enormous saloon, a jacuzzi on the flybridge and four guest cabins, although those are rarely used for sleeping during local charters.

“Talk about luxury,” Chau says. “The Sunseeker 131 has a grand living room, four bedrooms and an interior design that resembles a five-star hotel. She’s also capable of travelling around Southeast Asia for an unforgettable holiday.”

The company’s most popular charter yacht is its own custom-built NextWave Island, a 65-footer designed for parties. It has a capacity of 45 people, but can comfortably fit 60 once moored.

NextWave Island is a 65ft party boat focused on fun and toys

“Designed to have plenty of open space, we use cosy, movable lounge furniture to create different layouts to suit different customer needs,” Chau says. “It has great sound systems on all three of its decks and a spacious-air conditioned karaoke room.”

The charter fleet also includes a new 23ft Heyday inboard as NextWave believes there’s an insufficient supply of high-quality wake boats on Hong Kong Island’s south side.

Depending on the yacht, pick-ups can be arranged from various points in Hong Kong including Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay and Sai Kung.

Popular requests include from Central to Repulse Bay or Deep Water Bay, with the yacht cruising around the west of Hong Kong Island, passing by Ocean Park. Once anchored, guests can swim to the beach, wakesurf, wakeboard or enjoy other toys, a sector NextWave specialises in.

“Powered surfboards like Jetsurf and Lift eFoils are also gaining in popularity as we’re expanding the market in Asia,” Chau says. “We also carry toys such as slides and other giant inflatable toys from Aquaglide.”

charters@nextwaveyachting.com

www.nextwavecharters.com

Yacht Style 48: The 2019 Charter Issue Out Now!
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Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Singapore Flings

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Singapore Flings

August 27, 2019
2:05 am

Sitting in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore has superb marinas and impressive yachts, although charter activity remains focused on day trips..

Singapore has a rich maritime history and several of the region’s leading marinas and yacht clubs, including ONE°15 Marina, where you’ll find several of Asia’s leading yacht dealerships and agencies including ONE15 Luxury Yachting, the city’s largest charter company, with over 40 yachts.

Eagle Wings, which can cater for up to 50 day guests, did over 300 charters in 2018

Half-day and day charters make up the vast majority of bookings, as most of the fleet are not registered for overseas charters. Many are berthed at ONE°15 Marina, so guests typically embark and disembark at Sentosa Cove.

Notable yachts in the charter fleet include EagleWings, a Sunreef Supreme 68 sailing catamaran , Anka, a 75ft wide-bodied Bondway, and the Azimut 116 Hye Seas II. EagleWings and Anka are licensed for 50 and 55 passengers respectively, within Singapore waters, and enjoy consistent demand year-round. Both have their own full bar and hot tubs.

“EagleWings and Anka are two of the bigger yachts in our fleet, so are popular for corporate and hospitality events that require a large saloon, dedicated galley and large outdoor social areas,” says Sylvia Ng, Senior Manager, ONE15 Luxury Yachting and ONE°15 Life, the charter company’s new digital platform.

Eagle Wings is a Sunreef Supreme 68 sailing catamaran

For parties of about 18-30 people, more regularly-chartered yachts include the 40ft Lagoon sailing catamaran Ximula and powercats such as the 46ft Xiao Lin, the 47ft Mikanna, the Aquila 48 No Name 2 and the 51ft Leopards Charter Me Too and Valencia.

Many of the popular charter yachts are well equipped with toys such as kayaks, SUPs, floats, fishing gear and snorkelling equipment, while EagleWings and Anka both have jetskis and towables. In fact , Anka’s Sea-Doo jetskis, the GTX Limited 230 and 300, and Fish Pro 155, can be hired to accompany another yacht charter.

Corporate charters remain fairly consistent throughout the year, but overall demand increases in bookings in June and December due to school holidays, so there are more charters for family gatherings and children’s parties.

Eagle Wings is packed with toys, great for half-day or day trips

December is slightly behind June as it’s slightly wetter plus more families travel for holidays. After all the year-end festivities, January is one of the quieter months for charter.

A typical charter in Singapore is four hours, with the option to extend. A standard itinerary would start with a 30-45-minute cruise to one of Singapore’s southern islands such as Lazarus or St John’s. Guests then have 21⁄2 hours to swim in calm seas, enjoy water sports or have their own cookout using the barbecue on-board.

Then there’s a relaxed return cruise along the south of the city for views of its increasingly interesting skyline, offering a different perspective of recent architectural landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer.

Other options include the two-hour sunset cruises in the evenings and ‘fireworks cruises’, which bring guests to the Marina Bay area  to watch displays in July and August, in conjunction with Singapore National Day celebrations, and on New Year’s Eve.

The Azimut 116 Hye Seas II can also charter outside Singapore

EagleWings had a spectacular Asia premiere in Singapore in 2016 and the 68-footer with a 34ft beam soon became a chartering machine, with about 280 charter bookings in 2017 and 308 last year.

“We are open for charter all year round, any day, any time,” says EagleWings representative Shixiang Lim. “We have all the toys and can even offer fine dining with private chefs on board.”

The yacht’s amenities include a foredeck jacuzzi, bar, karaoke, piano, automated mahjong table, barbecue, banana boat, kayaks, paddle boards, snorkelling gear, dive compressor, Seabob and a Williams 445 Jet Tender.

Lim says a popular itinerary starts at 4.00pm, with EagleWings anchoring at St John’s Island for watersports. After a barbecue dinner at 7.00pm, the yacht starts a slow cruise around the Marina Bay area, heads to Siloso Beach on Sentosa for fireworks, and returns for 9.30pm.

EagleWings II is a Sunseeker Manhattan 60 that can cater to 15 guests in the day

And if EagleWings is too big for your needs, there’s always EagleWings II, a Sunseeker Manhattan 60 motoryacht that can cater to 15 guests in the day.

ONE15 Luxury Yachting is supported by the club’s own Latitude bistro, which offers an extensive menu of food and beverage for charterers and can also set it all up on board beforehand – particularly important for corporate entertainment. Chefs and service staff can also be hired.

For those yachts that do cruise out of Singapore, such as EagleWings and Hye Seas II, they’re usually chartered to nearby destinations such as Johor in Malaysia, and Batam and Bintan in Indonesia.

A notable exception is Ximula, which has a strong reputation for sailing holidays into some of the area’s most idyllic but lesser-known islands in Indonesian waters, including the Badas Islands east of Singapore and the Anambas Islands to the northeast. Charters are for a minimum of five nights and include all meals on board.

www.one15luxuryyachting.com www.one15life.com

Yacht Style 48: The 2019 Charter Issue Out Now!
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Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special 2019: Spirit of Papua New Guinea

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Spirit of Papua New Guinea

August 26, 2019
2:12 am

Yacht Style’s 2019 Charter Special ventures just outside of Asia to Papua New Guinea, where the 115ft powercat Spirit offers a remarkable 10-day ‘seafari’.

Papua New Guinea may not be in Asia, but this South Pacific nation shares a border with our continent and resides in the Coral Triangle, so charter guests can enjoy the same tropical marine waters as neighbouring Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia plus the Solomon Islands to its east.

The 115 powercat Spirit is available for charter in Papua New Guinea through Camper & Nicholsons

Sometimes called PNG, the country occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, with the west side occupied by the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua, the latter home to Raja Ampat and other world-famous dive and yachting destinations.

Papua New Guinea’s waters and marine life are among the best in the world, but for yacht charter the country remains somewhat of a hidden gem – and has even been described as having more languages than any other country.

Despite its size of almost 500,000sqkm, just smaller than Thailand and 50 per cent bigger than Malaysia, Papua New Guinea has a population of just 8.2 million, less than New York and a little more than Hong Kong.

Fortunately, its small population and limited tourism have helped ensure the pristine nature of its assets above and below the water, where visibility typically ranges from 80-130ft.

A warm welcome for Spirit and her charter guests in Papua New Guinea

However, these factors also mean that visiting charter yachts can become somewhat of a major curiosity for locals, especially when that visitor is the 35m charter yacht Spirit , usually based in the Australian city of Cairns, just 525 miles south of the PNG capital of Port Moresby.

GETTING IN THE SPIRIT

With its striking wave-piercing design, the New Zealand-built powercat not only turns heads but also delivers outstanding stability underway and has a particularly spacious interior due in large to her 10.8m beam.

Her striking, sleek appearance is the work of Ken Freivokh, designer of the world’s largest sailing yacht, the 106m Black Pearl, and the 88m Maltese Falcon , although charter guests will be more focused on Spirit’s interior, featuring European furnishings and the latest in audio-visual entertainment systems.

On the main deck, a spacious saloon features a comfortable lounge and a formal dining table with a bar counter, while on the aft deck is further seating and a large dining table so charter guests can enjoy the Cordon Bleu chef’s culinary delights al fresco.

In Cape Vogel, Spirit’s twin hulls encourage villagers in their canoes to come up close and even have a paddle underneath the hull, also a lively encounter for charter guests

Spirit can accommodate up to 12 guests in five staterooms, including four VIP double cabins forward on the main deck, two of which can be converted into twins with an optional third bunk.

The master suite dominates the upper deck and benefits from its own private deck area with sun loungers, large windows, a king-size bed and an office area with a coffee table and chairs, while forward is a jacuzzi surrounded by cushioned seating. On the top deck, stools surround a central bar and this partially shaded space is ideal for refreshments or a breakfast with an incredible view.

Based in Cairns, Spirit’s cruising locations include the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays, the Solomons and Papua New Guinea, where she offers a 10-day charter starting from Alotau, the capital of Milne Bay province on the country’s southeast peninsula and just an hour’s flight from Port Moresby.

MILNE BAY TO TUFI FJORDS

After being met at Gurney Airport, guests are transferred to Spirit, which is anchored off Alotau in the calm sheltered waters of Milne Bay. Depending on time available, the yacht may relocate to a nearby anchorage where you’ll be free to enjoy the yacht’s facilities and toys at your leisure. Alternatively, a shore excursion to a local village will be on offer.

Bright, vibrant colours dominate Papua New Guinea’s traditions, culture and wildlife

The first passage is out of Milne Bay and then south to Samarai Island, home for days two and three, and somewhat of a living museum. Given its tiny size, you can explore the island and its colonial architecture easily on foot. Diving and snorkelling opportunities abound in the area, which has a thriving reef system and pristine, uninhabited white beaches.

On the third day, Spirit cruises east to the Deboyne Islands where friendly villagers sail canoes around the lagoon, fishing and trading between villages. Panaeati is the northernmost of the islands, while others include Panapompom and Nivani, and there are lots of opportunities for diving, snorkelling and fishing around the lagoon.

A big underwater attraction is that several Japanese fighter planes were ditched in the lagoon in World War II, as the islands were used as a seaplane outpost by the Japanese Navy, providing exciting and easily accessible snorkelling in the shallows.

Days five and six are spent in the Conflict Islands, to the west, back in the direction of the mainland. The Conflict Islands are a little-known group of 21 uninhabited coral islands surrounding an astoundingly beautiful lagoon.

Visitors will be amazed at the clarity of the water in Papua New Guinea

The sheer remoteness of this pristine location begs exploration within the numerous reefs, cays and islands, all ideal for swimming, snorkelling, diving and fishing. A good spot for a beach barbecue with your freshly caught fish.

Spirit then heads west to the D’Entracasteaux Islands, north of Milne Bay, for days seven and eight, with guests able to enjoy a diverse array of attractions on and around these volcanic islands.

The beautifully named Goodenough, Fergusson and Normanby are the three biggest islands and run northwest to southeast. The Dei Dei hot springs on Ferguson are accessed via a short jungle walk, while there are fantastic opportunities to see rare birds of paradise to the east.

The tiny island of Dobu, between Fergusson and Normanby, offers great reefs for diving and snorkelling as well as nice walks through the villages, where you can immerse yourself in an island lifestyle that has changed little over time.

Spirit is equipped to travel to remote areas like Restorf Island off New Britain, not on the itinerary outlined in this article

The final passage is northwest to Tufi on the mainland, where the spectacular fjords are a highlight, along with the rainforest mountains, crystal clear waters and coral reefs.

With a maze of cliff faces descending vertically into the ocean surrounding Cape Nelson, incredible displays of local culture, plus some of the region’s best and most spectacular diving and fishing locations, Tufi is a truly magnificent location to round out your PNG experience.

ALWAYS READY AND PREPARED

And Spirit’s the right yacht for this amazing venture as her water toys and facilities really bring her into a league of her own, with 12 full sets of scuba diving equipment on board, including a compressor and Blade Fish 5000 underwater scooters. There’s even the option of a Dive Master as an optional crew member who’s able to issue qualification certificates.

Spirit also has a 7m fishing tender fully equipped for trolling, bottom fishing, topwater and spear fishing. Alternatively, you can explore the reefs and coves from the comfort of a kayak or stand-up paddle board, while kiteboarding equipment and/or lessons can be arranged in advance.

Spirit has a great beach club on the swim platform and is packed with water toys

There’s also a 5.2m RIB, ideal for waterskiing, wakeboarding or towing the various inflatables, all toys easily accessed from the yacht’s high-low swim platform.

Another great thing about PNG is that it’s always a good time to visit as the temperature remains about 30 degree Celsius, with water temperature around the same, and the area can be dived, fished and cruised year-round, even if January to March is the wet season.

Papua New Guinea has incredible, diverse local culture and some of the best fishing and diving the world has to offer, while Spirit offers everything you’ll need to get the most out of this hidden paradise.

Contact: Sytske Kimman: skimman@camperandnicholsons.com

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Yacht Style 48: The 2019 Charter Issue Out Now!
Yacht Style 48: The 2019 Charter Issue Out Now! SHARE Share on facebook Share on linkedin Yacht Style's annual Charter Issue covers Asia's greatest getaways, the 2019-20 racing calendar, and yachts...

Asia's leading yachting lifestyle media

Charter

Hong Kong Rides Exciting Day and Overnight Charter Boom: 'Charter Issue' 2020

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Flying Fox: The World’s Largest Charter Yacht Is Returning to Asia

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Silolona Leads New Life: Yacht Style Charter Issue 2020

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Thailand’s Amazing Yacht Charter Buffet On Show in Phuket

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Dunia Baru Offers Charter Guests Chance to See Indonesia’s Big Five

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Lady Azul Enjoys Strong Charter Demand in Asia Following Refit

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Prana Breathes New Life into Indonesia Charter Market

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RoMEA Making Charter Debut in Asia Through Imperial

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Charter in Asia – Fun for the Family: Yacht Style Special

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Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Hong Kong’s Great Days Out

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Charter in Asia – Yacht Style Special: Singapore Flings

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