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Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

Immersion in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Immersion in Raja Ampat, Indonesia

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Following earlier festivals along the Amazon River and in the Sahara desert, the latest edition of Immersion was held in Raja Ampat, which provided a spectacular backdrop for an alluring cocktail of dancing and diving, meditation and music.
Words: Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

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Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

Isolated within the towering karsts of Raja Ampat, a commune of over 100 travellers have arrived by boat on Wayag Island. On this uninhabited and near-inaccessible atoll, the wayward wanderers are performing a cacao ceremony.

 

Participants are gathered in a circle, praying, singing and meditating while sipping on the natural elixir sanctified by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. This esoteric exercise, taking part in an unspoiled corner of the globe, is part of a New Age festival known as Immersion.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

It might seem like a scene straight out of Danny Boyle’s film The Beach, but rather than gathering a group of backpackers in Thailand, Immersion has attracted these luxury charter guests to West Papua in east Indonesia.

 

MORE THAN MUSIC

Three luxury phinisis, Prana (55m), Dancing Wind (45m) and Nala (37m), plus the liveaboards Seaisee (45m) and Raja Manta (36m), played host to the Immersion community as they journeyed through the sapphire seas of this remote corner of the world.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

Nala was among five superyachts organised by Yacht Sourcing

 

Raja Ampat was the seventh Immersion gathering organised by Greg Habib, a French-Brazilian entrepreneur. Previous editions of the music and wellness event have taken place in adventurous regions including along the Amazon River, amid the dunes of the Sahara desert and on the salt flats of Bolivia.

 

And while there are always parties and performances, Immersion events are not simply a music festival. Habib calls them an invitation to “immerse yourself in a cultural universe”. They’re also a maritime festival, often tied to superyachts that serve as their primary mode of accommodation and transport.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

“As a festival that seeks to showcase epic locations off the beaten path, Immersion chose Raja Ampat this year for its spectacular natural beauty both on land and underwater,” Habib says.

 

“However, Immersion events are more than just gatherings in beautiful locations. Immersion is a global community that aims to bring people together to experience new cultures, nature, music, gastronomy, self-knowledge and friendship, and to give back to the local community.”

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

The six-day programme included a give-back initiative, encouraging participants to volunteer in a local village. The group then continued sailing around the archipelago and indulging in a variety of activities to fully experience the stunning scenery.

 

Diving, snorkelling and feasting were complemented by holistic experiences such as cacao drinking ceremonies, sound healing rituals, primal movement sessions and massage therapies.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

Each day was followed by a hedonistic evening of dancing under the stars, be it on a beach or a boat, or in the water.

 

The guests represented over 40 different nationalities, with their ages ranging from six months to 73 years. Attendees were joined by a production crew, professional musicians and spiritual leaders, although Habib emphasises that there’s little distinction between guests and staff at Immersion events.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

YACHT SOURCING

The phinisis were among the main attractions. Yacht Sourcing is the worldwide charter Central Agent for the gorgeous five-cabin Nala launched last year.

 

However, the company coordinated the logistics for all the hosting superyachts including the white-hulled, nine-cabin Prana, which the company built at its own shipyard in south Sulawesi and launched in 2018.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

Together with the white-and-blue-hulled Dancing Wind, the presence of these wooden phinisis flying their sails added an aesthetic charm to the event and fulfilled Habib’s desire to immerse participants fully in the local culture and traditions.

 

While each vessel boasts luxurious spaces to unwind, from outdoor cinemas and alfresco cocktail bars to spa rooms and yoga decks, they were also equipped with full gear for diving and other water sports to help guests fully experience the destination.

 

 

Yacht Sourcing’s access to Indonesia’s finest superyachts and intimate knowledge of Raja Ampat’s cruising grounds made it “the ideal fleet partner for Immersion,” according to Habib.

 

“We needed a partner who could understand and accommodate our complex needs, and Yacht Sourcing went above and beyond in helping us create an unforgettable experience for all participants,” he says.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

“From negotiating and securing the perfect vessels, to assisting with logistics, menu planning and licensing requirements, Yacht Sourcing’s understanding of the remote location of Raja Ampat was critical in enabling us to make the event accessible to as many people as possible.”

 

By the end of the event, Habib received feedback from guests “describing the experience as the most beautiful trip of their lives”.

 

Immersion, Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Greg Habib, Aztecs, Mayans, Danny Boyle, The Beach, phinisi, Prana, Dancing Wind, Nala, Seaisee, Raja Manta, Olivia Michel Photos: Nicolas de Panam

 

The success of the festival, the support of the local Indonesian yachting community and the pristine beauty of the region have encouraged Habib to consider returning for another edition of the festival in the future.

 

“While Immersion is committed to exploring new locations, Raja Ampat is likely to be revisited due to its exceptional appeal,” says Habib. “It’s a destination that many people dream of visiting.”

www.immersioncommunity.com

www.yachtsourcing.com

 

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Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

Thailand’s Super Charter: Ocean Emerald

Thailand’s Super Charter: Ocean Emerald

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With Thailand reopening to tourism, Phuket is back on the wish list of holiday-goers and there are few more memorable ways of cruising the area’s coastal delights than on Ocean Emerald, one of Asia’s most iconic resident superyachts.
Words: Chrissie McClatchie. Photos: Camper & Nicholsons.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

Designed by Lord Norman Foster, the 41.3m Ocean Emerald had a refit in 2009

 

A country where natural beauty collides with a rich fabric of cultural influences and a bounty of fresh flavours, Thailand is a traveller’s dream. Here, in the heart of Asia, gentle crystalline waters lap against a shock of pure white sand, framed by lush forests of green that hint at the verdant interiors that await.

 

It’s a country that promises clear blue skies and the good life, whether that means stripped-back yoga on the beach or five-star fanfare.

 

As a superyacht destination, Thailand’s appeal has been on the rise for the last decade or more, especially with the investments in infrastructure both the public and private sector have made. It’s hardly a surprise. Along with the natural attractions, easy flight connections from around the globe plus a selection of first-class marinas and other facilities and services are driving this growth.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

The sundeck includes a Jacuzzi, sunpads and bar

 

As we start to dip our toes back into travel, Thailand is emerging as one of the first countries in the Asia-Pacific region to reopen to visitors. And with the advantages of private yacht holidays in this current climate needing little explanation, the realisation that this slice of tropical paradise is now within reach is welcome news for all.

 

CAMPER & NICHOLSONS

Currently based in Phuket, Ocean Emerald is a renowned yacht for charter with Camper & Nicholsons and her core Thai crew can’t wait to welcome guests back on board to share their beautiful country.

 

With her distinctive grey exterior and sweeping, curved superstructure, the 41.3m yacht was designed by Lord Norman Foster and launched by Rodriquez Yachts in 2009, and she’s been revitalised following a 2019 refit. As always, she turns heads wherever she goes.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

Ocean Emerald’s superstructure is iconic

 

With a tremendous amount of interior space compared to many yachts of her size, she can sleep 10 guests comfortably in five luxurious staterooms. Her accommodation is wonderfully versatile.

 

Most notably, two of the lower-deck double cabins can transform into a second full-beam master suite with his and her bathrooms. Such a configuration is a fantastic value-add for two families wishing to charter together.

 

Her two spacious saloons both enjoy a powerful connection with the surrounding scenery and plenty of natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows. Her interior spaces offer a choice of formal dining options, a bar, games station and an extensive movie library.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

The main-deck saloon benefited from the 2019 refit

 

As dusk falls after sunset aperitifs on the sundeck, the upper saloon can be transformed into ‘party central’ complete with a state-of-the-art lighting system – it’s the perfect venue to dance the night away.

 

Other attractions include a fully-stocked toy garage, sundeck Jacuzzi surrounded by sunpads, on-deck barbecue, and ample lounging and dining spaces all protected by sunshades. The alfresco life can be enjoyed any time of the day on her characteristic cascading decks.

 

SAMPLE ITINERARY

A seven-day sample itinerary on Ocean Emerald will see you arriving at Phuket Yacht Haven or Ao Po Grand Marina to a warm welcome from the captain and crew, then a cool drink and tour of the yacht as you settle in for departure.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

The upper-deck saloon can be adapted for special occasions

 

Day two will feature memorable cruising through Phang Nga, with its storied landscape of limestone cliffs (karsts), rocks and small beaches.

 

At anchor off Koh Hong, it’s time to test your kayaking skills as you explore the labyrinth of lagoons while spotting the area’s unique animal life such as fiddler crabs, mudskippers and crab-eating macaques.

 

In the afternoon, set sail for the Phi Phi Islands, one of the settings that has made this stretch of paradise a star of the silver screen. Away from the crowds, there are plenty of quieter bays to drop anchor for a spot of snorkelling or to find land-based attractions such as caves or sublime viewpoints.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

The upper deck also offers alfresco dining

 

The following day’s destination is Koh Lanta National Park and its wealth of islands, home to dramatic limestone cliffs, winding mangrove rivers and secluded beaches. Together, the sparsely populated Koh Ngai and neighbouring Koh Muk and Koh Kradan form a golden triangle made for island hopping.

 

On day five, sail to Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai, two remote islands regarded among the most beautiful in southern Thailand – you’ll feel like you’ve escaped from the rest of the world. Both islands have sublime beaches and are a delight to explore by tender or kayak, while the surrounding reef is an explosion of vibrant colours.

 

Ocean Emerald, superyacht, Norman Foster, charter, Camper & Nicholsons, Rodriquez

Accommodation is headed by a luxurious master suite

 

Koh Ha, which means ‘Five Islands’ in Thai, is your treat on day six and divers can come face to face with a rich array of marine life in a central lagoon framed by a large sandy bay. Your last night in Thailand will be memorable, whether it’s an intimate beach barbecue arranged by the crew or a louder celebration onboard the yacht before you set sail for Phuket the following morning.
www.camperandnicholsons.com

Charter in Asia 2021: Camper & Nicholsons

Camper & Nicholsons highlights some of its top superyachts for charter in Asia, as published in Yacht Style’s annual feature in Issue 60.

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Charter in Norway: A Stunning Cruise Powered by Nature

Charter in Norway: A Stunning Cruise Powered by Nature

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Norway’s sheltered fjords are ideal for calm charter cruises, yet also offer stunning hiking, climbing, fishing, diving, paragliding and helicopter rides.

When I was invited to readyviewed spend a few days exploring Norway on board the 43m charter superyacht Daydream , my confirmation was almost instant. Located on similar latitudes to Iceland, much of it even further north, Norway has a reputation for spectacular scenery and adventure.

Norway is an emerging cruising and charter destination, but currently most superyachts will have the seas, rivers and spectacular scenery to themselves; Photo: Matt Porteous

Norway is an emerging cruising and charter destination, so most superyachts will have the seas, rivers and spectacular scenery to themselves; Photo: Matt Porteous

During the flight, I read up and discover some impressive facts. The Human Development Index, published regularly by the United Nations, classifies Norway as the world’s most developed country. According to the Democracy Index of British magazine The Economist, the Scandinavian state is the most democratic and its GPD per capita ranks third globally.

Norway only has a population of 5.3 million, but is one of Europe’s largest countries in terms of area and has an enormous coastline due to its enormous number of islands. It’s frequently listed third among countries with the most islands, behind Scandinavian neighbours Sweden and Finland.

As such, it’s an ideal place to explore by yacht, even if charter activity in this area is still in its infancy. There are just a handful of megayachts here each summer, as well as newly built yachts from German and Dutch shipyards whose maiden voyages often take place in Norway.

As our plane descends over the breathtaking Norwegian landscape, rugged rock faces tower above gently rolling hills, fringed by crisp green meadows. The glassy swathes of deep blue fjord water are dotted with an occasional boat, while on the horizon, snow-topped mountains complete the picturesque backdrop.

Norway’s spectacular fjords are great for cruising and hiking; Photo: Matt Porteous

Norway’s spectacular fjords are great for cruising and hiking; Photo: Matt Porteous

Such remarkable geography helps explain why this country has produced renowned explorers such as Roald Amundsen, the first person to reach both the South Pole and North Pole, and Thor Heyerdahl, famous for his Kon-Tiki voyage of 1947 in which he sailed more than 8,000km across the Pacific in a wooden raft.

As we finally land, it’s a surprisingly pleasant 18 degrees Celsius, warmer than anticipated, and the real adventure begins.

Adventure Playground

Arriving on board the Christensen-built Daydream, myself and my fellow guests receive a warm welcome from Captain Damion and his seven-strong professional crew. Handed warm, scented towels to refresh us after our travels, we then enjoy champagne and canapés before being shown to our staterooms.

I then join the other guests in the beautiful, open-plan saloon to receive a briefing from the Captain on the itinerary for the next few days. We are advised that not only will this include paragliding, diving and fishing but there will also be an exhilarating helicopter flight over the fjord-strewn landscape and visits to Preikestolen – one of the country’s highest vantage points – and the exquisite gardens on the private island of Flor and Fjære.

Preikestolen is a steep cliff that rises 604m and offers remarkable views from its flat top

Preikestolen is a steep cliff that rises 604m and offers remarkable views from its flat top: Photo: Matt Porteous

Departing from Stavanger, one of the biggest cities in this sparsely populated country, we begin our thrilling exploration of the serene fjords in the Rogaland municipality.

Norway is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Daydream pulls up behind a well-equipped Jeanneau Merry Fisher tender, enabling guests to get a little closer to the coast or angle in shallow waters. Differing from many other European areas, Norway’s calm coastal waters are extremely rich in fish, so it’s almost impossible not to catch something.

We learn that experienced anglers often hook large halibut, impressive Atlantic salmon or the tasty but rather unattractive wolfish, as well as coalfish, haddock and cod. Parts of the fjords are sometimes over 1,000m deep and this is where unusual species such as the ice shark can be found.

The peaceful fjords provide the perfect conditions for watersports and we enjoy some exhilarating jetski rides before kayaking up close to waterfalls.

Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible – Fallout, hanging off Preikestolen

Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible – Fallout, hanging off Preikestolen

Following a quiet cruise along the exceptional Lysefjord, we find a helicopter waiting for us. Swooping over the landscape, our fascinating bird’s-eye view encompasses majestic peaks, tranquil bands of water, and flat, rocky platforms strewn with massive boulders.

The sight of Preikestolen is phenomenal. Also known as Pulpit Rock, it famously features in the recent Tom Cruise hit, Mission: Impossible – Fallout, as Ethan Hunt hangs by his fingers on the edge of the cliff, fighting for survival, while below him is a sheer 604m drop into the watery depths. If this is free climbing, I might just leave this to the experts and special agents.

On Board Attractions

Far below, readyviewed Captain Damion provides the perfect photo opportunity by driving Daydream in loops . This is also the sign for our pilot that he should bring us back on board and although it’s getting late, one could almost think it is early afternoon. After all, Norway benefits from almost constant daylight in the summer months.

Norway is an action-lover’s paradise, with the calm waters perfect for everything from jetskiing to diving and kayaking; Photo: Tom Van Oossanen

Norway is an action-lover’s paradise, with the calm waters perfect for everything from jetskiing to diving and kayaking; Photo: Tom Van Oossanen

Fortunately, we’re not too late for the sensational dinner awaiting us on the sun deck. Chef David is a master of creating fusion foods and wows us with a combination of king crab risotto, duck breast, smoked salmon and of course Norwegian wild fish.

A nightcap in the jacuzzi concludes this and every evening of our trip as it provides the perfect spot to catch up on the day’s adventures with fellow guests – from the exhilaration of jet-skiing, to the adrenalin-buzz of paragliding and the majestic views from the helicopter.

One of the many benefits of a yacht charter in Norway is the opportunity to enjoy a digital detox, as there are some areas of the fjords where the high cliffs mean your mobile phone signal is limited. However, communication with the outside world is always possible via the yacht’s satellite system, should it be required.

A glass of champagne in the jacuzzi is an ideal way to unwind at the end of the day, especially in Norway’s summer when it remains light most of the time

A glass of champagne in the jacuzzi is an ideal way to unwind at the end of the day, especially in Norway’s summer when it remains light most of the time

As we depart and I soak up the last views of this incredible landscape, I was actually heartened to realise that chartering in Norway is still in its infancy. For those looking for a new travel experience, offering more seclusion, outdoor adventure and rare opportunities in a remote landscape, Norway holds a powerful appeal.

Daydream

Length: 42.6m  Beam: 8.2m  Capacity: 10 guests Crew: 7

Weekly Charter: €89,000-99,000  Charter Broker: Ocean Independence

www.oceanindependence.com

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!

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...

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New Zealand’s Sights & Sounds: South Island

New Zealand’s Sights & Sounds: South Island

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Yacht Style concludes a two-part feature on New Zealand with the South Island, as local experts explain the amazing array of cruising options for visitors to the America’s Cup host nation. By Marieke Derks.

Situated at the top of the South Island, the Marlborough Sounds are a network of drowned valleys, islands, coves, bays and beaches © Rob Suisted

 

SOUTH ISLAND: MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS

Marlborough Sounds is at the northern tip of the South Island, west of Wellington across the Cook Strait. Captain Andy Grocott, master on the 39m expedition catamaran The Beast, says relocating the yacht here is often done without guests on board. The distance from Auckland down the east coast is about 500nm and smaller superyachts may need a reasonable weather window to cross seas that larger yachts can plough through.

 

“There are a few stops along the way, but for guests there’s not so much to see or do from the water,” says Grocott, who also says yachts visiting the Bay of Islands and the very north could consider cruising down the North Island’s west coast depending on the weather.

New Zealand's Sights & Sounds: North Island | Yacht Style

New Zealand is a spectacular country to visit at any time of year. However, the 36th America's Cup in March 2021 and its lead-up events starting with its World Series this December welcome you to explore the country during its stunning summer, when there's typically plenty of sunshine and pleasant on-land temperatures of 20-25°C.

Click above to read the first article, including cruising suggestions for the North Island.

 

Marlborough Sounds’ myriad bays offer an estimated 1,500km of coastline and encompass pristine native forest with 800-year old towering rimu trees, lush ponga tree ferns – or silver ferns – native orchids, farmland and forestry.

 

Kayaks are a great way of exploring this intricate maze of waterways, while on land there’s the historical Queen Charlotte Track, a 70km trail connecting Queen Charlotte Sound to the Kenepuru Sound that’s renowned for its stunning views and contrasting landscapes.

 

Biking is another great activity in the Marlborough region, also renowned for producing three-quarters of New Zealand’s wine © Marlborough NZ

 

Day hikes and bike rides can be organised with drop offs and pickups by water, while a visit to picturesque Picton can be planned along with a short drive to the wine region of Marlborough for an afternoon of sampling wines and local produce.

 

SOUTH ISLAND: FIORDLAND & STEWART ISLAND

It’s another 600nm to reach the Fiordland National Park on the South Island’s southwest corner, a region with deep majestic fjords, towering cliffs and mountains, numerous waterfalls and breathtaking scenery.

 

An alternative for visitors is to sail along the South Island’s east coast, where potential stops along the way include cities like Christchurch and Dunedin, before considering the chance to explore southerly Stewart Island before heading back up to Fiordland.

 

Over The Top offers helicopter tours around Fiordland and the Queenstown area in the South Island’s spectacular southwest

 

If time’s short, crew can take the yacht down the west coast, which is spectacular but offers few places to stop. Charter guests, for example, can fly to Queenstown and take a breathtaking helicopter ride across the Southern Alps right into Milford Sound or Deep Cove in Doubtful Sound.

 

Alternatively, those who have sailed around the coast can helicopter into Queenstown to explore this spectacular lakeside resort town featuring luxury lodges, wineries, excellent restaurants, world-class golf courses, and numerous adrenalin-based activities and adventures.

 

For scuba divers, diving in Fiordland is a treat and should there be time to visit Stewart Island, diving is also a must. “Stewart
Island offers pristine sandy beaches and great hiking, fishing and scuba diving,” he says. “Most of the island is national park and it’s the place to see kiwi birds in their natural habitat.”

 

A highlight of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is arguably New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attraction © Will Patino

 

The four main cruising grounds all offer lots of sheltered anchorages, Grocott says. Prevailing winds in the summer (December-February) are easterlies, although some passing weather systems can last for a few days, which means smaller superyachts may need to plan for longer passages.

 

Grocott warns: “Sometimes a swell from the east makes the east-facing beaches less accessible by tender and being in the Southern Ocean means you need to be prepared for the weather to change quickly.”

 

CHARTER CHOICES, NORTH AND SOUTH

Fleur Tomlinson, Charter Director at 37South, manages New Zealand-based yachts like The Beast, Sea Breeze III, Yonder Star and the new Rua Moana.

 

“We can easily build an itinerary for one, two or three weeks or longer depending on the client’s wishes,” Tomlinson says. “When clients want to experience both the North Island and South Island, we can make suggestions for on-land stays and excursions while the yacht is relocating. Normally the relocation from the North Island to South Island takes about a week.”

 

Paragliding is one of New Zealand’s many adrenalin-fuelled activities © Colin Watts/Unsplash

 

On land, guests can choose from a great network of luxury accommodation, wineries, culinary experiences and breathtaking golf courses such as Tara Iti and Kauri Cliffs in Northland, Cape Kidnappers in Hawke’s Bay, and The Hills and Millbrook Resort near Queenstown, to name a few.

 

Tomlinson adds: “While on the North Island, consider a visit to the geothermal area of Rotorua with its boiling mud pools and geysers, Maori villages or a heli-tour over one of the world’s most active volcanic regions. Then there are the glow worm caves of Waitomo, the quirky cafés of Wellington, and if you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings, a visit to Hobbiton will be on your list.”

 

If you have time before joining or re-joining your boat on the South Island, you can consider a ride on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch, crossing the Southern Alps including Arthur’s Pass National Park before finishing in Greymouth on the west coast.

 

PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT

Whether you visit New Zealand with your own yacht, wish to book a charter or plan to charter out your yacht, “planning ahead of time is highly recommended,” says Duthie Lidgard, Director of Catalano Shipping Services New Zealand, which is managing berth allocation for visiting yachts during the America’s Cup as the endorsed superyacht agent for Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.

 

The golden colours around Arrowtown near Queenstown © David Wall

 

“We encourage captains to contact us early in order to detail their requirements for itineraries and line up the paperwork and
procedures for visas, quarantine and permits,” Lidgard says.

 

“There are different requirements for yachts of different lengths and tonnage regarding pilotage and access to protected areas, while hull cleaning is required for certain areas because of biosecurity. A lot can be arranged, but we need to start in good time. We also provide fast-track visa processing for owners, guests and crew not from a visa-exempt country.”

 

NZ Marine, which represents the country’s yachting industry, has created a good overview of regulations that can be downloaded from their website, although Lidgard encourages captains to contact him in person. “We can even advise captains who have cruised New Zealand and know the area well, as regulations have changed.”

 

A beach in Moeraki, a fishing town on the South Island’s east coast © Miles Holden

 

Tomlinson also stresses early contact – from six weeks to three months, to be safe – for those wishing to operate charters in New Zealand waters as a foreign-flagged vessel as there’s “paperwork and survey work to schedule with NZ Marine ahead of time”.

 

As a final reassurance, Lidgard emphasises that the country offers great facilities and expertise for maintenance and refit,
highlighting the New Zealand chapter in the 2020/21 Superyacht Services Guide for Pacific, Australia and Asia as a comprehensive guide to local yacht services.

 

Resources and contacts:

37South – Fleur Tomlinson, Charter Director, fleur@37southyachts.com Catalano Shipping Services NZ – Duthie Lidgard, Managing Director, duthie@catalanoshipping.com

NZ Marine – info@nzmarine.com, www.nzmarine.com

 

SUPERYACHT SERVICES GUIDE

Marieke Derks, Zara Tremlett and Bert van Muylwijk form the Superyacht Services Guide’s author team for Asia, the Indian Ocean and Australia. The SSG features personal recommendations from professional yacht captains and crew for
the best services used around the world, not only to run a superyacht but to receive owners and guests, and to live and work on board as crew. The quick-search online directory is regularly updated, fast-tracking users to the most reliable, efficient and effective services available globally.

marieke@superyachtpublications.com

www.superyachtservicesguide.com

www.issuu.com/superyachtservicesgu

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New Zealand’s Sights & Sounds: North Island

New Zealand’s Sights & Sounds: North Island

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Yacht Style kicks off a two-part feature on New Zealand with the North Island, as local experts talk about the amazing array of cruising options for visitors to the America’s Cup host nation. By Marieke Derks.

Situated in Hawke’s Bay on the North Island’s east coast, Cape Kidnappers is regularly named among the world’s top golf courses © Jacob Sjoman

 

New Zealand is a spectacular country to visit at any time of year. However, the 36th America’s Cup in March 2021 and its lead-up events starting with its World Series this December welcome you to explore the country during its stunning summer, when there’s typically plenty of sunshine and pleasant on-land temperatures of 20-25°C.

 

Aotearoa (‘long white cloud’) is a country proud of its indigenous culture, with English and Maori the official languages. It offers clean air and a colourful array of landscapes and seascapes to explore across and around its North and South Islands.

 

About a sixth of New Zealanders identify as Maori; visitors can enjoy cultural programmes and experiences © ATEED

 

Natural wonders range from giant shifting sand dunes and the iconic Bay of Islands at the top of the country, volcanic and geothermal areas around Rotorua, down to the South Island’s 500km-long Southern Alps, capped by the 3,724m Mount Cook (Aoraki), with glaciers flowing from its sides.

 

Cruising yachts are in their element in New Zealand, which has 15,000km of coastline and 600 islands to explore. Although most of the sailing is in the North Island, the most spectacular scenery is on the South Island, where you’ll also find the Marlborough Sounds and its many inlets and waterways in the north, while the majestic fjords of Fiordland National Park are down in the southwest.

 

New Zealand offers spectacular dining, in both the north and south © ATEED

 

New Zealand delights the taste buds, producing stunning local food and wine, as grapes seem to happily grow all over the country. You’ll find award-winning vineyards on both main islands, along with a vast river network and 3,820 freshwater lakes, led by the 616sqkm Lake Taupo in the centre of the North Island.

 

Fittingly for a nation that’s home to Queenstown, ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, New Zealand offers a head-spinning range of action both coastal and inland. On land there’s spectacular golf, hiking and biking plus skiing and snowboarding in the winter. Parachuting and paragliding are among air-based thrills, while water-based activities include scuba diving, fishing, white-water rafting and kayaking.

 

Paddle boarding around Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city © ATEED

 

In fact, oceangoing canoes (waka) were used by Polynesians to travel across the Pacific to New Zealand from about 1320 onwards, with the first human arrivals establishing themselves as the Maori almost 450 years before British Captain James Cook and his crew landed in 1769.

 

We now welcome today’s yachting experts to be your cruising guides to this amazing country.

 

CRUISING IN NEW ZEALAND

Captain Andy Grocott is master on The Beast, a rugged New Zealand-built expedition catamaran measuring a solid 39m (129ft) by 12m (39ft) and notable for its camouflage-grey exterior.

 

Built for action, this charter yacht offers guests a whopping 4,000sqft of living space and lots of toys including a 48ft sports fishing boat, 30ft amphibious tender and full scuba diving gear. It also offers a journey into the distinct yachting experience to be found in New Zealand.

 

Captain Andy Grocott of The Beast details New Zealand’s four best cruising grounds

 

“As well as the country’s natural and cultural beauty, cruising here creates a completely different atmosphere on board compared to the Med or the Caribbean. It’s a genuine yacht cruise and not a restaurant run,” Grocott says.

 

“There are no shops, few towns, we are away from the crowds and stay in stunningly peaceful anchorages. All meals are enjoyed together on board or sometimes on the beach. That’s what I cherish most about being a charter captain in New Zealand. I haven’t found this experience anywhere else.”

 

Grocott has explored New Zealand’s waters on different yachts and recommends the following four main cruising grounds (see areas in three and four in Part Two).

 

NORTH ISLAND: AUCKLAND & HAURAKI GULF

New Zealanders love the water and Auckland has the highest ratio of boats per capita in the world, hence its nickname ‘City of Sails’. Many famous sailors learned to sail in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the setting for the 36th America’s Cup and many of the supporting events.

 

“We most often pick up guests in Auckland as there is easy access from the airport, excellent logistics and we do all our provisioning there,” Grocott says.

 

Waiheke Island is one of many stunning anchorages and cruising grounds in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf © ATEED

 

Hauraki Gulf offers sensational cruising with lots of anchorages and sights including Waiheke Island, the Coromandel Peninsula and Great Barrier Island.

 

“All places feature great walks ashore, excellent fishing and protected bays for watersports,” he says. “Distances are 20-30nm, offering relaxed day trips to great anchorages. Guests can easily spend several days here with a different experience around each corner.”

 

NORTH ISLAND: BAY OF ISLANDS & NORTHLAND

The Bay of Islands and its turquoise waters are a gorgeous 120nm voyage up the coast to Northland, the northernmost of the country’s 16 regions. There are many places to stop along the way. Halfway along the route, Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve is a world-famous destination for scuba divers, with a choice of over 50 different dive sites in clear waters, stunning underwater scenery and abundant underwater life.

 

New Zealand’s most popular cruising destination, Bay of Islands is home the Millennium Cup superyacht regatta © Jeff Brown

 

Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s most popular cruising ground with scenic bays, many islands, beautiful beaches and pleasant historical villages like Russell with its iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

 

Guests who choose to start their journey in Bay of Islands can either fly 40 minutes from Auckland to Kerikeri Airport or take a helicopter ride to the beach and hop into the tender.

 

Bay of Islands is also home to many dolphins © Jeff Brown

 

About a sixth of New Zealand’s 4.9 million population identify as Maori and this area has plenty of Maori history and culture to explore, such as the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and museum. You can ask to visit a marae (Maori meeting ground), while Grocott often organises a hangi (Maori method of cooking in a pit) on the beach and sometimes even a cultural Maori experience on board.

 

Heading further north, sheltered Whangaroa Harbour is relatively close to the exclusive Kauri Cliffs Golf Course and not far from Cavalli Islands, which has nice beaches and anchorages, great fishing and superb scuba diving on the Rainbow Warrior wreck.

 

The Bay of Islands also features top-class vineyards and wineries, as does much of New Zealand © Alistair Guthrie

 

“And if you continue all the way over the top,” Grocott adds, “I suggest stopping at Three Kings Islands for some unreal big-game fishing or walk the shifting Giant Sand Dunes in Cape Reinga.”

 

Read Part Two for the South Island and details of local operators

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New Zealand Packs Calendar Around 36th America’s Cup

New Zealand Packs Calendar Around 36th America’s Cup

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Yacht Style looks at the array of regattas, competitions, meetings, parties and other events scheduled around the 36th America’s Cup, at the same time as the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Auckland celebrates its 150th anniversary. 

By Marieke Derks

After the 2017 win in Bermuda, Emirates Team New Zealand parades the America’s Cup by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (also below), the trophy’s new home

Good news arrives from New Zealand as I am interviewing Linda Berry, Managing Director of The Superyacht Gathering. The New Zealand government has not only decided to welcome the America’s Cup Teams and their boats into the country but also to open country’s borders again for superyachts intending to do maintenance or refit in New Zealand.

Contrary to Australia, where sea borders remained open for visiting superyachts and their captains and crew throughout Covid-19, New Zealand opted for a stricter approach to fight the virus. 

The announcement came as a big relief to New Zealanders, America’s Cup teams and their global fanbase. It was also encouraging for yacht owners, guests, crew and sailing enthusiasts planning to follow or attend the plethora of sailing events in New Zealand from this December through next March.

Aaron Young, Chair AC36 and Vice Commodore of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, the America’s Cup holder, comments: “The RNZYS was certainly very happy to hear of the border restrictions allowing AC36 teams and is working on the superyacht visiting process.

“These visitors to New Zealand will bring a welcome boost to our economy. Aside from adding to all the maritime events in 2021, the greater marine industry will welcome yachts for refits and maintenance given the expertise New Zealand has in this field.”

Peter Busfield, Executive Director of NZ Marine, New Zealand’s marine industry association, was also delighted with the decision. 

“Normally between 30-40 superyachts cruise in New Zealand for the high season, but this time we had a total of 160 wanting to join us for the events and further cruising. And although it is hard to predict how Covid-19 will evolve over the next months, the decision to allow AC36 teams is a great step towards making this all happen.” 

The Kiwis have lined-up an impressive array of 20-plus waterbased events and a large number of on-land events from December to March – before, during and after the 36th America’s Cup when Emirates Team New Zealand will be defending the trophy they won back in 2017 in Bermuda by beating defender Oracle Team USA. 

“Sailing in New Zealand is an inclusive sport and leisure time activity,” says Michelle Khan, Major Event Organiser at the RNZYS and a keen sailor herself.

“Together with sponsors, people in the yachting industry and many volunteers, we are creating a series of events to everyone’s liking. We are celebrating our ocean, the freedom of boating and excitement of being on the water. Don’t forget, it’s also the club’s 150th anniversary.” 

This country of great natural beauty has sailing in its veins. Many famous Kiwi sailors learned to sail on Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, the setting for the America’s Cup and many of the other events. Almost every populated area in New Zealand is close to water. The country has 15,000km of coastline (the ninth-longest of any country), 600 islands and 3,820 freshwater lakes. 

Khan explains there are boating events planned for everyone: for sailors with and without boats, owners of everything from small sailing dinghies to megayachts, and captains, crew, spectators, and any other sailing and water enthusiasts. 

“By removing barriers and sharing our love for the sea and for boating, we would like to involve as many people and hearts as we can,” Khan says. “It does not get better than this!”

WHAT’S GOING ON: EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

With so much happening in so many places, here’s a round-up of the main events. 

36TH AMERICA’S CUP (DEC-MAR) 
After building, testing and refining their boats in their home waters, the challenger AC36 teams can now ship the yachts and teams over to New Zealand for further preparations. The 23m carbon-fibre AC75 boats are handled by a crew of 11 sailors with a maximum weight of 960-990kg. Twin canting T-foils sticking out like spider legs raise the hull out of the water and a mast of 26.5m above deck carries the max 400sqm sail surface that can take the boats flying over water up to 50 knots (almost 100kmh). Due to Covid-19, the World Series in Auckland in December will be the first time they race their spectacular, elegant foiling monohulls. The Prada Challenger Series in January and February will produce the final challenger to take on defender Emirates Team New Zealand during the Finals from March 6-21. Best of all, Young says, “the racing will be able to be viewed from the shore and the city itself, as it’s happening in Auckland Harbour”.

 The America’s Cup features the 75ft AC75 foiling monohulls

A festive day for all, the Ports of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is held each year to celebrate the birthday of the City of Sails, with watercraft of all shapes and sizes putting to the water across the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf under paddle, sail and steam power. This will be the 181st edition of this much-loved event.

MOONEN YACHTS SYDNEY TO AUCKLAND OCEAN RACE (JAN 30-FEB 9)
Organised by the Royal Prince Albert Yacht Club together with RNZYS, the 1,250nm category 1 ocean regatta starts in Sydney Harbour on January 30 and finishes in Auckland Harbour in time to help the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron celebrate its 150th anniversary. It’s open to offshore cruising and racing yachts, superyachts and ocean racing multihulls, and also incorporates a rally for cruisers. 

SUPERYACHT FISHING COMPETITION (FEB 13)
Billed as the ‘world’s first superyacht fishing competition’, the event takes place 120nm (220 km) north of the AC36 venue in scenic Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand’s most popular cruising grounds. A sporty and fun event for yacht owners and guests who will go out on fishing tenders for the winning catch.

NEW ZEALAND MILLENNIUM CUP (FEB 15-17)
The 23rd edition of the famous Millennium Cup regatta is run from the historic village of Russell, gateway to the Bay of Islands. Organised by the Russell Boating Club and NZ Marine, the Millennium Cup is the world’s southernmost regatta and among a series of global superyacht regattas for yachts over 25m. The iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel is the beating heart of the on-land part of this prestigious regatta. Some fun competitions are not to be missed, like the Tawera Rum Barrel Challenge skiff race.

February’s New Zealand Millennium Cup in the Bay of Islands is among several exciting superyacht events held around the 36th America’s Cup in early 2021; the Tawera Rum Barrel Challenge skiff race is part of the Millennium Cup

MASTERCARD SUPERYACHT REGATTA (FEB 23-27)
Held just days ahead of the AC36 Finals, the RNZYS-organised superyacht regatta will take place in the heart of the Hauraki Gulf, offering more brilliant sailing, amazing scenery and Kiwi hospitality as part of the club’s 150th anniversary celebrations. After a welcome function on February 23, there are four days of racing and a final prizegiving party.

BRIDGE TO BEAN DINGHY RACE (FEB 28)
Auckland’s most fun regatta has 300 dinghies and foiling boats on the water and is open to anyone, including hangers-on, yacht crew, superyacht owners and guests, and who knows … maybe some of the foiling boats that did not make it to the finals?

AUCKLAND ANNIVERSARY REGATTA (FEB 1)
A festive day for all, the Ports of Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta is held each year to celebrate the birthday of the City of Sails, with watercraft of all shapes and sizes putting to the water across the Waitemata Harbour and Hauraki Gulf under paddle, sail and steam power. This will be the 181st edition of this much-loved event.

RNZYS INTERNATIONAL CLASSICS REGATTA (FEB 27-MAR 1), THE 100TH LIPTON CUP REGATTA (MAR 20)

For lovers of sailing history, there are two classics regattas on the menu. The RNZYS International Classics Regatta includes local and international classic vessels, while the 100th Lipton Cup could see Mullet Boats (traditional fishing boats) of all sizes coming out of the woodwork. The trophy was donated by Sir Thomas Lipton and was crafted by the same silversmith as the America’s Cup.

THE SUPERYACHT GATHERING (MAR 24-26)
Good things happen when people truly connect, care and share. That is the adage of The Superyacht Gathering. Linda Berry, Commercial Director and co-founder of the event, says: “We offer an intimate, small-scale event for people who want to make a difference and do good for our oceans and coastal communities.” The three-day event starts with a meet-and-greet evening, features a symposium in Auckland, and concludes with a joint breakfast with RNZYS giving an AC36 presentation, then a leisurely lunch at Waiheke Island. “It’s so different to other superyacht events,” Berry says. “It almost feels like a group hug.”

AUCKLAND REGATTA (MAR 26-28)
Designed by sailors for sailors, the Auckland Regatta is a joint initiative between the RNZYS and Bucklands Beach Yacht Club. The regatta includes multiple divisions and features windwardleeward racing and longer harbour courses. For sailors who don’t have their own boats, the Pacific Keel Boat Challenge also returns and is an invitational fleet racing event for 10 leading yacht clubs, classes or crews.

www.americascup.com

www.rnzys.org.nz

VISITING NEW ZEALAND AROUND AC36

Here are some key contacts for enquiries:

  • If you wish to visit with your yacht and attend any events, Duthie Lidgard, Director of Superyacht Support and RNZYS-endorsed agent for AC36 events, advises to contact him as early as possible to discuss berthing, itineraries and cruising permits:duthie@superyachtsupport.nz
  • To learn more about chartering in New Zealand, Fleur Tomlinson, Charter Director of 37 South, has itineraries and yachts available for charter before, during and after AC36 and related events:fleur@37southyachts.com
  • One of the more exciting New Zealand-based charter options isThe Beast, a 39m camouflage-hulled catamaran explorer with over 370sqm of living space and diverse itineraries. Contact: fleur@37southyachts.com

 SUPERYACHT SERVICES GUIDE

Marieke Derks, Zara Tremlett and Bert van Muylwijk form the Superyacht Services Guide’s author team for Asia, the Indian Ocean and Australia. The SSG features personal recommendations from professional yacht Captains and crew for the best services used around the world not only to run a superyacht but to receive owners and guests, and to live and work on board as crew. The quick-search online directory is regularly updated, fast-tracking users to the most reliable, efficient and effective services available globally. Some Captains say the SSG is ‘by far the most used publication on board’.

marieke@superyachtpublications.com

www.superyachtservicesguide.com

https://issuu.com/superyachtservicesguide

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.

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Exploring Okinawa, Japan, on a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Exploring Okinawa, Japan, on a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

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Ocean Nomad’s adventurous young owners tested themselves and their Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 as they headed east of Taiwan to explore the stunning islands across Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, sailing for almost four weeks before being forced home.

The spirit of adventure is still alive and well in Kaohsiung where the owners of a Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40, Ocean Nomad, extended their longest journey aboard their yacht from a couple of days to 26 earlier this year, having completed their first sailing trip outside of Taiwan.

Lin Yu-yang and Lee Chien-yu (top row, middle and right), known as Yang and Yo respectively, on Ocean Nomad at the Kha Shing Pier 22 marina in Kaohsiung

All in their late 20s, Lin Yu-yang (‘Yang’), Lee Chien-yu (‘Yo’) and Lee Yu-hsiu (‘Kevin’) are friends and also partners in YeMan Sailing, the company that owns the charter boat and is also a popular social media platform, with over 16,000 Likes on Facebook as of mid-June, as well as Instagram and YouTube channels.

“We love the ocean and the sailing life, exploring the coastline and taking our clients with us. Our goal is to let people in Taiwan know more about our ocean and promote this kind of lifestyle,” says the tall, goateed Yang, the main videographer, a selfie-stick lover and the driving force behind the voyage to Japan.

“Another reason we bought a sailboat is to travel around the world. We hope we can encourage everyone to be more adventurous and dare to take risks.”

The trip to Okinawa marked the first sailing trip outside Taiwan for both the boat and the crew, who rented a car in the first stop at Miyako Island 

The group describe themselves as ‘Taiwan’s first ocean adventure YouTubers’, while the Chinese name of the company loosely translates as ‘barbaric tribe’.

However, until exploring Okinawa – Japan’s southernmost prefecture – during an almost four-week trip, the longest offshore trip they had made was a day’s sail from Kaohsiung to Dongji island in the Penghu archipelago in the Taiwan Strait.

EXPLORING SOUTHWEST TAIWAN
After ordering the Lucia 40 (hull number 221) in 2018, Ocean Nomad was delivered in July 2019 to Kaohsiung – the hub of yacht building in Taiwan – where it’s an active charter boat, sailing south of Kaohsiung to the likes of Xiao Liuqiu (Little Liuqiu or Lambai Island), north to Tainan City or as far northwest as Penghu.

The Ocean Nomad crew have a tradition of swimming, snorkelling and paddling wherever they stop in their Lucia 40 and were stunned at the water clarity

“We often look for an anchorage to stay overnight at sea,” says Yang. “This summer we’ll search for more great anchorages around Taiwan.”

Before committing full-time to YeMan Sailing, Yang used to run a small business in Taipei, Yo was a technology project manager and Kevin was an HR manager. Of the three, Kevin has the most sailing
experience, having been an RYA-certified dinghy instructor for five years, so he played a key role on the Japan trip.

The original plan was to sail as far north as Kyushu and explore more of Japan, but with the onset of Covid-19 closing in, they decided “We often look for an anchorage to stay overnight at sea,” says Yang. “This summer we’ll search for more great anchorages around Taiwan.

”Yo was a little nervous ahead of the trip, as was the fourth member of the crew, Yang’s dad Chih-hsin (‘Hsin’) who’s in his late 50s and had little sailing experience.

Yang (far right), Kevin (bottom left), Yang’s dad Hsin (top left) and Yo (top right) make friends in Miyako

“This was our first time sailing to another country and Yo and my dad were very anxious about this unknown adventure. The only thing we could all think of is that we’re gonna vomit a lot,” smiled Yang, who admitted Kevin took on one of the key responsibilities.

“Yu-hsiu is the only one who can cook in big waves and doesn’t get seasick, so he was responsible for all the meals. During the trip, we mostly ate simple food like instant noodles, fruit and juice, and sometimes beer.”

Nagannu Island, between Okinawa Island and Kerama National Park, features pristine beaches and turquoise water, like many other islands in Okinawa

SETTING SAIL FOR MIYAKO-JIMA
The team spent time training for the big adventure and also preparing the boat, even equipping it with solar panels that were able to power most household items except the watermaker and airconditioners.

After taking a couple of days to sail from Kaohsiung to Hualin on Taiwan’s east coast, the team’s first port of call in Japan was Miyako Island (Miyako-jima), 200nm to the east. The guys were up and running, and loving what they were seeing, but the restrictions enforced due to the coronavirus plagued them early in their trip.

“In Miyako, there are a bunch of beautiful beaches like Yonaha Maehama, Shigara and Sawada, and we thought there would be definitely a lot of great anchorages,” says Yang.

“Unfortunately, because of the coronavirus, the local coast guard didn’t let us leave the port. We ended up renting a car and looked around the island. There are a lot of restaurants and supermarkets on the island, and we weren’t far from Hirara Port, so our bikes also helped a lot.”

Ginowan Marina (above) on the island of Okinawa, 465nm from Kaohsiung; Yo takes a team photo (below)

Jumping into water is the tradition of the Ocean Nomad crew, who leap into the sea every time they stop, and on this journey, this included Hirara Port and even into the Kuroshio Current, 12nm from Miyako.

Like most water lovers, they spent a lot of their time at anchor swimming and snorkelling, and using stand-up paddleboards to explore bays, while taking advantage of their wheels on land.

“On the remote islands, we rode bicycles to explore the various paths and it sometimes took less than an hour to travel around these smaller islands. We always try to find a nice location where you can overlook the whole island.”

PARADISE IN THE KERAMA ISLANDS
They eventually sailed as far as Okinawa Island itself, another 160nm, berthing at Ginowan Marina. However, it was the Kerama Islands just 20nm west of southern Okinawa that really captured their attention, as they anchored off the likes of Aharen Beach in Tokashiki Island and in Agonoura Bay in Zamami Island.

The crew were able to explore bays and reach beaches in their tender, which was well used for watersports and also enabled them to buy groceries on land

“We all think the Kerama Islands are the most beautiful, amazing place we visited. The water is so clean that you can see through it, even though it’s about 20m deep, plus the beaches were clean and so
empty at this time,” Yang says.

“All the coastlines are natural and well preserved, so the landscapes are very different from southwestern Taiwan where we usually sail. For us, the Kerama Islands are the real paradise, especially as there are a few little villages, so we drove our dinghy and landed it on the beach to get to the grocery store.”

However, as Covid-19 became more widespread and worrying, and travel restrictions started to be imposed, the crew realised it was time to head back. 

Returning by way of Miyako again, Ocean Nomad eventually sailed in to Wushi Marina in Yilan County in Taiwan’s northeast, 26 days after leaving Kaohsiung.

“Overall, the whole voyage was great and better than we expected, and we were very fortunate to have wonderful weather windows. The islands and beaches we visited were simply amazing. The islands were more beautiful than we could imagine and each one made us want to
live there forever,” Yang says.

Aharen Beach in Tokashiki Island in the Kerama National Park, just west of Okinawa Island, was among the highlights of the 26-day trip

“We went to a lot of beaches and each had their unique features. Some were clean and peaceful, while some were very rich ecologically, with lots of special fishes and coral. The only pity is that this journey ended too early because of Covid-19, which also limited our interaction with local people.”

For the Ocean Nomad crew, the trip to Okinawa wasn’t as extensive as they had hoped for and featured limited social interaction due to the exceptional circumstances, but it did show them there’s a big, wide world out there waiting to be explored.

“We’re more and more in love with this kind of lifestyle,” Yang says. “We’ll continue this unfinished voyage, for sure.”

www.fountaine-pajot.com
www.facebook.com/yemansailing

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.

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