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Superyacht charter appeal in Asia

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Superyacht charter appeal in Asia

June 18, 2026
12:44 pm

As superyacht ownership continues to expand across Asia, Fraser Asia says more owners are beginning to ask this strategic question.

Words: Nick Hung; Photos: Fraser

Pool on the 24m sundeck on Daybreak, a Baglietto T52

Once viewed primarily as a European and US practice, chartering your yacht is now increasingly being explored by Asia-based owners – not as a commercial enterprise but as a structured way to optimise usage, offset operational costs and enhance long-term asset positioning.

Asiamarine, which represents Fraser in Asia, is seeing a clear change in mindset. Owners across Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand are reassessing how their yachts can operate more strategically within the region’s evolving charter ecosystem.

According to Laura Verbrugge, Sales Manager for Fraser Asia, this shift reflects a broader maturation of the regional market.

“Charter in Asia is no longer viewed as a compromise,” she explains. “When structured correctly, it becomes a strategic extension of ownership, enhancing usage, protecting long-term value and positioning the yacht more intelligently within the market.”

Haiami I, a Custom Line Navetta 33

Asia does not follow Mediterranean rules. Its demand patterns, cruising grounds, regulatory environment and client expectations are distinct. Understanding these differences is essential before integrating charter into an ownership strategy.

This article explores what charter truly means for owners in Asia, from demand realities and yacht selection to operational structure and financial outcomes. So, is there real charter demand in Asia compared to the likes of the Mediterranean and Caribbean?

“Charter demand in Asia is very real, but it follows a different rhythm from the Mediterranean or the Caribbean,” Verbrugge says. “Rather than long, season-driven itineraries, the Asian charter market is shaped by shorter charters, local clientele and a high level of spontaneity.”

Victoria Harbour (above) and Tai Long Wan (below) in Hong Kong, a key superyacht hub in Asia along with Singapore and Phuket

Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand remain the region’s most active hubs, driven by clients seeking privacy, flexibility and convenience. Corporate entertainment, family gatherings, celebrations and last-minute escapes all contribute to consistent, year-round demand.

Over the past year, however, new markets have emerged. Asia has seen a growing increase in charter enquiries from clients in the US and Europe, particularly for destinations such as the Philippines, Thailand and Japan.

These clients are actively seeking new experiences, different cruising grounds, landscapes and cultural immersion beyond the traditional Mediterranean and Caribbean routes.

Lexsea, a Benetti Oasis 40M, shows the increasing trend for expansive beach clubs

“While the Mediterranean and Caribbean remain heavily marketed and well established, Asia is increasingly capturing attention as the next frontier,” Verbrugge explains. “As awareness grows and the region becomes better positioned on the global charter map, demand is expected to continue expanding. Asia is not a secondary charter market. It’s simply one with its own rules and increasingly its own momentum.”

KEY FACTORS FOR ASIA CHARTERS

So, what type of yacht performs best on the Asian charter market? Charter success in Asia is less about headline length and more about suitability. When assessing a yacht’s charter potential, several key criteria consistently shape performance, according to Verbrugge.

Length remains an important consideration. While there is no single ‘correct’ size, the strongest charter demand in Asia is typically found in the 35-50m range. This bracket aligns well with prevailing charter budgets while offering greater operational flexibility.

Felicita, a Mangusta Oceano 50

Once yachts exceed 70m, access, berthing and regulatory constraints can become more complex, limiting charter opportunities in certain cruising grounds.

Year of build plays a role, although freshness of design often matters more than age alone. Modern yachts with contemporary layouts, efficient systems and updated technology tend to resonate more strongly with charter clients, particularly those accustomed to newer yachts in Europe or the US.

Draft is critical in Asia. Many of the region’s most appealing anchorages and cruising areas require a relatively shallow draft, allowing yachts to access bays, islands and coastal destinations that define the charter experience.

The all-aluminium Anjelif, a hybrid 50m Columbus, includes a spa, gym and sauna

Facilities and onboard lifestyle features are increasingly influential. Charter clients place strong value on wellness and social spaces, with beach clubs, gyms and spa-style amenities now expected on successful charter yachts.

Unique culinary features – such as pizza ovens, barbecue setups or galleys equipped to prepare Asian cuisine – enhance the onboard experience and often become memorable highlights of a charter.

Deck space, configuration and cabin numbers matter. Generous outdoor living areas, flexible lounge spaces and seamless indoor-outdoor flow reflect how yachts are used in Asia, particularly for short-duration charters.

Haiami I is packed with water toys, an increasingly important offering on any charter yacht

Water toys have become a major driver of charter appeal. A well-curated selection of toys from tenders and Seabobs to inflatables, paddleboards and diving equipment transforms a yacht into a floating playground, especially for families and repeat local clients.

Finally, crew composition and experience are key. An experienced international captain supported by local or regional crew creates a strong operational balance. Local crew bring invaluable knowledge of cruising areas, regulations and conditions, while also bridging cultural and language differences with guests. This combination enhances safety, service quality and overall charter satisfaction.

Crew on Daybreak, a Baglietto T52 featuring an Art Deco interior, gym and beach club with coverable pool

“Yachts that successfully integrate these elements consistently outperform others on the Asian charter market,” Verbrugge admits.

WHAT DOESN’T WORK WELL – AND WHY

Not every yacht is naturally suited to the Asian charter market, regardless of pedigree or build quality. Sport yachts with limited deck space or only a single main deck often underperform. While they may be visually striking, they rarely offer the outdoor flow, social areas and flexibility that charter guests in Asia expect, particularly for short-duration charters.

Interior atmosphere is equally decisive. Dark woods, heavy materials and enclosed layouts can feel oppressive in tropical climates, especially when combined with insufficient natural light. Asian charter guests gravitate towards bright, open interiors that feel relaxed and inviting rather than formal or ceremonial.

Malaysia is among countries in Southeast Asia offering sensational cruising grounds

Crew experience is another important factor. Yachts operated by crew unfamiliar with the region – or without local language skills – often struggle to deliver the seamless experience clients expect. Local knowledge of cruising grounds, customs, weather patterns and cultural nuances is essential. Without it, even the most beautiful yacht can feel disconnected from her surroundings.

In Asia, successful charter yachts are those that feel intuitive, adaptable and in harmony with the environment. Designs or operations that feel rigid or imported without adaptation rarely resonate.

WHAT DOES CHARTER REALLY ACHIEVE FINANCIALLY

Charter is not about turning a superyacht into a conventional profit-generating business. At its core, charter offsets a portion of operating costs, enhances a yacht’s visibility and strengthens her long-term resale profile. Well-positioned yachts designed, configured and managed with charter in mind consistently outperform others, both financially and reputationally.

The Philippines is also among exciting destinations in Southeast Asia

But for some owners, charter goes beyond numbers. In recent years, particularly in Europe and the US, we have seen owners deliberately tailor and brand their yachts as extensions of their personal style and identity.

Placing such a yacht on the charter market becomes a way of sharing a vision – much like a signature private hotel accessible only to a highly curated clientele. Charter clients are not simply guests; they are invited into an owner’s world, aesthetic and legacy. When approached thoughtfully, charter becomes a platform for expression as much as optimisation.

OPENING UP OWNERSHIP

Chartering a yacht is not about giving something up. It can be about unlocking a new way to enjoy ownership.

An outdoor cinema, shown here on the foredeck of Anjelif, is a popular feature on charter yachts and a nice way to end the day

Asia offers one of the world’s most diverse yachting playgrounds with tropical anchorages, island hopping routes, vibrant cultures and cruising grounds that still feel undiscovered. A yacht designed and positioned specifically for this region becomes more than an asset. It becomes a living, evolving experience.

Seeing guests connect with the yacht, enjoy her spaces and embrace the lifestyle she was created for brings a different kind of satisfaction. With the right product, the right crew and the right strategy, charter becomes a celebration of the yacht itself and of the unique way yachting is experienced in Asia.

The future of charter in the region is not about copying the Mediterranean model but about creating something distinct, tailored and authentic. A charter product that reflects the rhythm, energy and style of Asia.

FIVE MED-BASED YACHTS THAT WOULD SHINE IN ASIA

· Anjelif (2024), a Columbus 50m custom hybrid that includes hybrid propulsion, a main-deck infinity pool, an open-air cinema, a gym and sauna

· Daybreak (2024), a Baglietto T52 that includes a three-level beach club with convertible pool, dedicated gym, 24m sundeck and an Art Deco interior

· Felicita (2025), a Mangusta Oceano 50 that includes a beach club opening on three sides, foredeck pool, sundeck jacuzzi and private sea terrace

· Haiami I (2022), a Custom Line Navetta 33 that includes a family-friendly layout, a sundeck hot tub and alfresco dining for 12

· Lexsea (2022), a Benetti Oasis 40M that includes fold-down terraces, an infinity pool, a shallow draft and a gym on the main deck

fraseryachts.com

Note: The original article appears in Yacht Style Issue 89

Bhavana phinisi yacht for charter

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Bhavana phinisi yacht for charter

June 11, 2026
5:32 am

The new 50m phinisi has joined Camper & Nicholsons’ charter fleet, with her Indonesian itineraries starting from US$105,000 per week.

Camper & Nicholsons has announced the addition of the 50m Bhavana to its Asia-based charter fleet. The new 415GT phinisi is available to charter from US$105,000 per week, starting from July 1, with her routes tracing the historic Spice Routes across the islands of Indonesia.

The fully-custom build is constructed in wood following the traditional boat-making techniques of south Sulawesi, with interiors styled with references to Indonesian Peranakan culture.

Bhavana’s main deck includes a formal dining area aft and the main galley, while forward are two lounging areas and a cocktail bar to starboard. The forward part of the deck is open and includes alfresco dining and sun loungers.

Above the upper deck, the sundeck features ample space for alfresco yoga and sun loungers for soaking up the sun and enjoying the views.

Up to 15 guests can be accommodated in Bhavana’s seven spacious en-suite guest cabins, which include four on the lower deck. There are three on the upper deck including a full-width master suite aft, which includes a bathtub, an aft balcony and 270-degree views. Forward on this level are the pilothouse and cabins for the captain and Cruise Director.

The yacht also has accommodation for up to 18 crew. Bhavana’s team includes a chef whose menus are infused with local flavours, a spa therapist for daily treatments and a dedicated Cruise Director who curates each itinerary by drawing on local knowledge.

Designed specifically for adventurous charters through some of the world’s best diving sites, Bhavana features a well-stocked toybox and a dedicated PADI-certified dive centre, with two tenders to support.

Recently launched, Bhavana offers modern comforts while paying respect to Indonesian heritage, making her an ideal vessel for guests seeking to explore the remote corners of Komodo, Raja Ampat, Alor and the Spice Islands in traditional style. At 50m, she is now also one of the largest Phinisi yachts on the charter market.
camperandnicholsons.com

Persefoni Yacht: Discover the Greek Islands in Extraordinary Style Aboard This 53.8m Mariotti Superyacht

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Persefoni Yacht: Discover the Greek Islands in Extraordinary Style Aboard This 53.8m Mariotti Superyacht

March 25, 2026
3:21 am

Aboard the superyacht Persefoni, the Greek islands unfold not as a checklist of destinations, but as a slower, more immersive way of life.

By Florence Sutton

There is a moment, somewhere between the whitewashed cliffs of Santorini at dusk and the first light breaking over a deserted Ionian anchorage, when the Greek islands stop being a destination and become something else entirely — a state of mind, a pace of living, a reminder that the most beautiful things on earth were not built by people in a hurry. Aboard the motor yacht Persefoni, that moment arrives on the first morning.

Her name is no accident. Persefoni — drawn from the depths of Greek mythology, the goddess who moves between worlds and turns the wheel of the seasons — is one of the Mediterranean’s most celebrated superyachts, and the Greek islands are her natural home. Built by the historic Genoese shipyard Mariotti Yachts in 2012 and brought to a new level of contemporary refinement through an extensive 2023 refit, this 53.8-metre Italian masterpiece is the finest lens through which to experience the Aegean’s extraordinary world. Her full story is told at persefoniyacht.com.

The Light, the Sea, and the Luca Dini Vision

The great Italian designers have always understood light — the way it enters a room, how it changes the temperature of a space, how it can dissolve the line between interior and exterior in a way that no amount of decoration ever could. Aboard Persefoni, Luca Dini Design & Architecture has applied that understanding to every surface, every proportion, every window.

Expansive glazing draws the Aegean into every interior space. The palette is restrained and warm. At 928 gross tonnes across a 10.5-metre beam, the volumes feel genuinely palatial — a sense of space more associated with a private villa on a Greek hillside than a vessel of 53.8 metres. And then there are the hydraulic balconies of the master suite, which open directly over the water — framing the sea, the islands, and the impossibly blue Greek sky in a way that, once experienced, makes everything else feel like a compromise. An additional balcony from the main deck foyer extends this philosophy of openness throughout the vessel.

Six staterooms accommodate up to 12 guests in spaces conceived as sanctuaries: private, light-filled, and entirely attuned to the world outside.

The Aegean as You Were Always Meant to See It

Greece rewards those who move slowly and look closely — and Persefoni is a vessel built for exactly that quality of attention. Over 2,000 islands and 9,000 miles of coastline stretch across the Aegean and Ionian, each with its own distinct character, its own light, its own relationship with history and myth.

The Cyclades draw you in with their dazzling white sands and crystal clear anchorages, rugged limestone cliffs and quiet villages where brightly-painted fishing boats bob in pretty harbours. Mykonos crackles with energy — sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters, internationally acclaimed DJs, refined beach restaurants, and label-laden boutiques. Santorini stuns with its cobbled streets drenched in bougainvillea, its decadent beach clubs and spectacular restaurants perched above the caldera. And then, when the glamour of the Cyclades calls for balance, there is always somewhere quieter to find: Folegandros, Milos, Amorgos — islands that the crowds have not yet entirely claimed.

Westward, the Ionian offers a different Greece entirely — greener, lusher, more intimate. Corfu’s Venetian elegance and charming old town. Zakynthos with its dramatic cliffs and electric-blue sea caves. Kefalonia’s secluded beaches and crystalline bays. Ithaca, where Odysseus longed to return. These are not places you pass through. These are places that stay with you.

And closer to Athens, the Saronic Gulf offers its own quieter magic — the stepping-stone islands of Aegina, Poros, and the car-free, donkey-patrolled harbour of Hydra, where time seems to have taken a long and voluntary break.

Life at the Water’s Edge

At anchor — which is where Persefoni truly comes alive — the beach club opens directly at the waterline, becoming the natural gathering point of each day. From here, guests slide into the Aegean on SEABOBs and E-Foils, race across the bay on Yamaha WaveRunners, or simply drift on paddleboards in water so clear the seabed is a work of art twenty metres below. A Castoldi Jet Tender runs ashore to harbours where the taverna tables are already set with fresh-caught fish and cold local wine.

When the water sports are done and the light turns gold, the sundeck Jacuzzi offers the perfect vantage point — a place to watch the Greek islands do what they do every evening, which is turn the sky into something that painters have spent centuries failing to adequately describe.

The Table, the Chef, and the Greek Kitchen

Greek cuisine is not a single thing. It is the freshness of just-caught sea bream on a Cycladic quayside. It is the earthiness of wild herbs from a hillside above Kefalonia. It is the sweetness of tomatoes grown in volcanic soil on Santorini, and the brininess of local feta crumbled over a salad in a harbour taverna. Aboard Persefoni, a world-class chef — whose culinary credentials include training at one of Athens’ finest Michelin-recognised restaurants — translates all of this into daily menus of genuine creativity, crafted from whatever the markets and fishermen of the day’s anchorage have to offer.

Every meal is an event. Every ingredient tells you where you are. Every evening at the table is a reason to stay one more day.

Managed with Devotion, Crewed with Excellence

The experience that Persefoni delivers — the seamlessness of it, the attention to the smallest detail, the sense that the yacht has somehow anticipated every need before it was expressed — is the work of Emperio Yachting Alliance, a boutique luxury yacht management agency dedicated to maintaining Persefoni at the absolute pinnacle of the superyacht experience. Under their stewardship, a professional crew of 13 moves through the Greek islands with the knowledge of people who have come to know these waters the way musicians know a piece they have played a thousand times — instinctively, joyfully, and always finding something new.

This is Greece as it was always meant to be experienced — not from a hotel terrace, not from a crowded beach, but from the deck of a vessel whose name belongs to the sea she sails.

Find out more at persefoniyacht.com.

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Sixties classic cruises Southeast Asia

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Sixties classic cruises Southeast Asia

November 27, 2024
7:00 pm

Recent refits bring contemporary comfort and tech to the six-cabin vintage motoryacht Camara C, offered for overnight or event charters by Asia Global Yachting, from its Phuket mooring.
Words: Charlie Harris; Photos: Asia Global Yachting

The 105ft Camara C is available for charter through Asia Global Yachting

When people think of yachting today, sleek, modern vessels embedded with the latest tech may come to mind. But there’s something undeniably captivating about a yacht that carries a sense of history – enter Camara C, a timeless 1961-built ‘gentleman’s yacht’.

This 105ft beauty, crafted by Yarrow & Co in Glasgow, Scotland, stands as a living testament to a golden era of yachting, where elegance and craftsmanship were the name of the game.

Once known as Maureen Maur, she has long been an emblem of refined yachting, hosting royalty, celebrities and the world’s elite. While her origins may date back more than six decades, Camara C has been lovingly maintained and refitted to blend the best of classic design with modern comforts.

Cushioning on Camara C’s main and upper decks offer plenty of seating and sun-lounging spots

Most recently refitted in 2021, she’s one yacht in the Classic line of charters cruisers offered by Asia Global Yachting (AGY), which operates in southern Thailand and Indonesia. Sailing the waters of southern Thailand, she offers a rare mix of heritage, luxury and contemporary comforts.

A LEGACY RESTORED

Camara C’s origins trace back to the drawing boards of GL Watson & Co, one of the world’s oldest yacht design houses, renowned for its studio in Glasgow. A grand example of traditional yacht building, from her steel hull to her teak decks.

Over the years, careful and precise refits have ensured that her vintage aesthetics remain intact, while integrating the latest technology to cater to the needs of today’s luxury travellers. The 2021 refit restored much of her original grandeur, preserving her status as a symbol of mid-20th-century maritime artistry.

THE QUINTESSENTIAL ‘GENTLEMAN’S YACHT’

Affectionately referred to as an example of this genre – so-named in its era – Camara C exudes the character and understated charm of a time when yachting was less about flashiness and more about refined leisure. With her canoe stern and classic lines, she cuts a striking figure on the water.

The sizeable saloon is well lit and beautifully finished

The attention to detail in her design – both inside and out – illustrates the craftsmanship of her builders, who valued both aesthetics and seaworthiness equally.

SPACIOUS LUXURY ON THE HIGH SEAS

Her expansive deck areas are perfect for relaxing or socialising. The aft deck features fixed seating and a large dining table that comfortably seats 10 guests, ideal for alfresco dining while taking in panoramic views of the sea. The sundeck is another highlight, with its combination of sun loungers and beds, perfect for soaking up the tropical sun during your charter.

A standout feature aboard Camara C is her spacious accommodation. She can host up to 12 guests across six luxurious cabins, or the same number for day charters, making her an ideal yacht for family holidays or gatherings of friends.

Cabins evoke a bygone era while offering modern comforts

Accommodation includes a master suite on the main deck, complete with a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room, while the remaining five cabins, each also equipped with an en-suite, offer a mix of double and twin bed configurations. The layout ensures both privacy and comfort, a hallmark of her design ethos.

COMFORT MEETS CHARACTER

While her vintage design remains at the forefront of her appeal, Camara C’s well-tuned mechanical reliability, and a host of on-board marine toys available are also part of the allure.

Powered by two 230hp Gardner engines from the UK, she can reach a cruising speed of 10 knots, with a top speed of 12 knots. This steady pace, combined with her 16,500-litre fuel capacity, gives her an exceptional range of 4,376 nautical miles – a feature that opens exciting cruising grounds across Southeast Asia and beyond.

Getting set for breakfast at the main deck’s well-sheltered outdoor aft dining area

For those seeking a little adventure on and below the water, Camara C comes equipped with a speedy Valiant 690 Sport Black Carbon tender and a wide array of water toys, including, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear.

These amenities ensure that guests can explore secluded bays and clear Southeast Asian waters, adding layers of fun and exploration to the serene luxury she offers.

AN ICON IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Currently based in Phuket, Thailand, Camara C welcomes her passengers to take in some of the most breathtaking cruising grounds of Southeast Asia, including the Andaman Sea. This region, known for its turquoise waters, vibrant marine life and pristine islands, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable yachting experience.

The six en-suite cabins are a mix of double and twins

Waking up to the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay, exploring secluded beaches or diving into the vibrant marine life that surrounds Thailand’s islands are just a few possibilities while aboard. Whether it’s a family holiday, a romantic escape or a corporate retreat, this cruiser offers a unique combination of old-world charm and modern luxury that few yachts can match.

Camara C’s inflatable ‘floating beach’ is a favourite fun yacht extension across charter group types, swiftly installed at anchor against photogenic backdrops.

THE PERFECT SETTING FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

With her spacious sundeck and elegant interiors, Camara C is also an excellent choice for hosting intimate events.

Outdoor dining and drinks

The aft deck’s large dining table, which can be extended to accommodate up to 10 guests, makes her ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or milestone birthdays. Additionally, her timeless design lines and classic ambience provide a picturesque setting for luxury photoshoots or film projects.

Camara C offers an experience that is rare in the world of luxury yachting: an alluring blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Her pedigree, combined with high-quality refits, ensures that guests experience the best of both worlds.

asiaglobalyachting.com

Andaman Sea charters fit for a Princess

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Andaman Sea charters fit for a Princess

November 14, 2024
9:17 am

Boat Lagoon Yachting in Thailand offers yachts ideally suited for exploring the Phuket and Krabi areas of the Andaman Sea, all the way to Myanmar.
Words: Craig Hurst; Photos; Boat Lagoon Yachting

Boat Lagoon Yachting has represented Princess in Southeast Asia since 1994

Whether you’re a new or frequent visitor to Thailand, the value of privacy and novelty rises quickly in popular destinations such as Phuket. To escape the island’s crowds or the buzzing temptations on offer, chartering a yacht for a day or overnight is a perfect way to enjoy time with friends and family as you explore the unique geography, food and culture that lies within the vast and varied Andaman Sea.

Boat Lagoon Yachting, the reputable broker and charter agency started three decades ago, has a number of British-built Princess Yacht vessels in its fleet, due to being the exclusive dealer of Princess Yachts in Southeast Asia since 1994.

Maritimus, a Princess 78MY

The Princess 78 Motor Yacht Maritimus is a sophisticated and contemporary luxury vessel designed for exceptional charter experiences in Phuket. The spacious flybridge offers panoramic views, and the yacht comfortably accommodates up to 22 guests for day trips and eight guests overnight.

Other boat brands are also sold and chartered by Boat Lagoon Yachting – such as the smaller, dynamic Sacs Strider chase boats. And just like the company’s new or pre-owned larger yachts, smaller boats are usually paired with crews that are very familiar with the area.

Boat Lagoon Yachting’s Princess 60 and Princess 75 cruising in Krabi

Here we look at some of the accessible areas around the waters of Krabi that allow charter or sales clients to feel like they can really relax, switch off and enjoy life above and below the pristine waterline.

PHANG NGA BAY

Spanning some 400sqkm, Phang Nga Bay lies between Phuket and southern Thailand’s mainland. Also known as Ao Phang Nga National Park, it’s characterised by vertiginous karst limestone cliffs and rock formations that rise from the coastline and islands, as well as mangrove forests.

Among the bay’s islands are Koh Tapu, known as James Bond Island for its appearance in a Bond film, and Koh Phanak, which is visited for its caves and lagoons that can be explored by tender or kayak. The waters in this area are dotted with coral reefs that can be explored by snorkel or scuba.

Koh Tapu is known as James Bond Island for its appearance in The Man with the Golden Gun movie

Beyond this cinematic scenery, the adventure extends to Koh Panyee, a captivating Muslim fishing village built on stilts over the water. Here, guests can enjoy an authentic seafood lunch amid the charm of local culture.

KO PHAYAM, RANONG

Often called the ‘Maldives of Thailand’, Koh Phayam is an idyllic place to escape to, as it offers pristine, white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, perfect for a luxury yacht cruise. This island gem’s tranquil bays and cultural richness bring a ‘private paradise’ experience.

This eastern bay offers boutique accommodation, shops, and local transportation options. At the end of the beach, Wat Koh Phayam – a serene temple nestled by the sea – provides a unique cultural touchpoint and a picturesque sunrise viewpoint.

Koh Phayam’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkelling and water sports

On the island’s western side lies Ao Khao Khwai, or ‘Buffalo Bay’ because it has a distinctive, curved shoreline that resembles a buffalo horn. The bay’s secluded beauty and natural rock formations such as the remarkable Hin Talu create a perfect setting for sunset views.

Further south, Moken village offers an opportunity to glimpse local coastal life. The widest and longest bay, Ao Yai spans about 4km and provides an ideal setting for water sports such as surfing.

A CRUISE IN ULTRA-LUXURY TO MYANMAR

The Princess X95 and Y95 models are exceptionally popular choices among Boat Lagoon Yachting’s brokerage and charter clients for extended cruises across Southeast Asia, including exclusive routes from Thailand to Myanmar.

The Princess X95 and Y95 charter yachts recently completed a voyage to Myanmar

An elegant journey crafted for superyachts sets out from Ranong towards the stunning shores of Myanmar. Sailing through the Andaman Sea unlocks a world of rare experiences. A highlight of the journey is a stop at Myanmar’s untouched Horseshoe Island – which appears on several lists of the world’s most paradise-like beaches and islands.

Another enchanting stop along this voyage is Emerald Heart Island, also known locally as Cock’s Comb Island. Its heart-shaped emerald lagoon, visible from above, is an adventurer’s dream with vibrant waters offering remarkable diving sites.

The Princess X95 and Y95 recently completed this invigorating journey to Myanmar and returned to Phuket, with the seamless support of the Boat Lagoon Yachting service team that includes skilled engineers, captains and knowledgeable guides and expedition leaders who attend to every detail and take pride in ensuring each voyage is as smooth as it is spectacular.

Guests enjoy exquisite cuisine and service

This exclusive route from Ranong cruises through the captivating Mergui Archipelago, where secluded, sandy beaches offer perfect settings for bonfires under the stars. On islands like Lampi and Kyun Philar (Great Swinton), charter guests can bask in the tranquillity of pristine landscapes.

VIKING CAVE, KRABI

For those keen on visiting the Viking Cave in Krabi, the Sacs Strider 11 is an exceptional chase boat for superyacht adventures – designed with safety, style and spaciousness in mind. Its sleek, robust lines offer great stability and comfort while delivering an exhilarating mix of relaxation and fun on the water.

The Sacs Strider 11 chase boat is ideal for visiting the Viking Cave in Krabi

This model boasts two generous sunbathing areas, an expansive swim platform, and an outdoor wet bar for socialising. Inside, a spacious forward cabin adds comfort, ensuring excellent liveability and abundant natural light.

Built for smooth, high-speed cruising, its powerful twin 350hp engines allow the Sacs Strider 11 to reach impressive speeds of over 40 knots. Accommodating up to eight guests at daytime and four overnight guests, the Sacs Strider 11 suits families or small groups eager to enjoy all the thrills of yachting with the convenience of bringing along their favourite water toys.

HONG ISLANDS, KRABI

The Hong Islands – locally known as Mu Koh Hong – in the Krabi region is one of the best anchorages for snorkelling and enjoying water toys. Known for its striking rock formations and unique scenery, it comprises around 12 islets stretching vertically from Phang Nga to the Krabi sea.

The Hong Archipelago features striking rock formations and unique scenery

The silhouettes of these islands are both inspiring and inviting. Visitors can kayak, snorkel, feed fish, or simply take in the breathtaking views – a perfect spot to enjoy time on and around the water.

For further exploration, Hong Lagoon provides a stunning viewpoint, while Phak Bia Island offers a quiet anchorage with sandy beaches and shallow waters perfect for snorkelling and relaxation.

FIVE-STAR SERVICE

The luxurious Princess 78 Motor Yacht W.J. LIP redefines the charter experience, offering elegance, comfort and versatility for both day trips and extended voyages.

The luxurious Princess 78 Motor Yacht W.J. LIP redefines the charter experience

This exceptional 24m yacht includes exclusive five-star service, featuring fine dining and expertly trained hospitality crews on board from the InterContinental Phuket Resort, ensuring an elevated journey. It’s a bit like staying in a floating five-star hotel.

This flybridge yacht accommodates up to 20 guests on a day charter and up to eight overnight guests in four beautifully appointed cabins. Perfectly equipped for adventure, W.J. LIP also features a dedicated davit crane for launching jet skis and water toys with ease into the Andaman Sea.

DAINTY DAY TRIPPER

Boat Lagoon Yachting’s recently added Princess F55 is crafted to create a serene, luxurious atmosphere in a compact design, making it the perfect choice for day excursions in Phuket. With a stabiliser system and space for up to eight guests for day cruises, this yacht blends refined style with comfort for yacht charter clients.

Experienced crew accompany guests throughout the journey

Whether for short getaways or extended charters, Boat Lagoon Yachting offers a promise of luxury, comfort and adventure.

boatlagoonyachting.com

princessyachts.com

Lagoon charter choices in scenic Hong Kong

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Lagoon charter choices in scenic Hong Kong

October 28, 2024
11:07 am

Asiamarine’s fleet of Lagoon sailing and power catamarans provide a unique perspective of Hong Kong’s beautiful beaches and remote islands.
Words: Craig Hurst; Photos: Asiamarine / Shutterstock, Tai Long Wan, Luca Brianza/Shutterstock.com

A Lagoon Sixty 7 powercat cruises along the south of Hong Kong Island

Hong Kong is one of the most dynamic cities in the world, yet nestled around this bustling metropolis is about 1,100km of coastline full of beautiful beaches and remote places, a UNESCO Geopark, and hundreds of islands that will surprise and delight.

Day or overnight charters let guests experience an amazing side of Hong Kong that most people never get to see, as well as try out several yacht styles and models to find just the right one before making a purchase. These days, there’s a lot of buyer interest in sailing and power catamarans, which offer an abundance of space and comfort, as well as luxury.

LAGOON CHOICES

Asiamarine now offers three catamarans from French builder Lagoon, part of the Beneteau Group, in its Hong Kong charter fleet: the Lagoon 51 and Lagoon 620 sailing yachts, and the Lagoon Sixty 7 motoryacht.

The Lagoon 51, a new addition to the Asiamarine charter fleet, is perfectly equipped for a thrilling charter experience. It features plenty of marine toys, including a slide and an ocean pool, and even a karaoke system for onboard entertainment. With the capacity to accommodate up to 30 guests and six cabins, it’s ideal for large groups and overnight charters.

The Lagoon 51 is the most recent addition to Asiamarine’s Hong Kong charter fleet

The globally-popular Lagoon 620 is a favourite for family outings in Hong Kong waters, boasting many water toys such as paddleboards, fishing gear, an ocean pool and a tender. It’s designed to provide endless fun on the water.

The Sixty 7 is Asiamarine’s largest Lagoon charter catamaran and is particularly popular with corporate groups due to its expansive deck area. The elegant interior features nautical colours, offering a sophisticated setting for any event.

As for where to explore on a charter in Hong Kong, a good place to start is dynamic Victoria Harbour and then go northeast to the picturesque Sai Kung Country Park area, or south towards the islands of Lamma and Lantau. Bespoke itineraries and experiences with preferences of those boarding or booking are available through Asiamarine.

SAI KUNG

Hong Kong day trips include sailing up towards beautiful Tai Long Wan, which translates to ‘Big Wave Bay’. This bay boasts a white-sand beach that’s popular with surfers and campers, and is located on the eastern edge of Sai Kung Country Park.

Tai Long Wan offers 3km of sandy beach near Sai Kung

Another option is the beach at Long Ke Wan, which has been referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by CNN and many other media outlets around the world. Millionaire’s Bay is only accessible via boat or hike, and Millionaire’s Beach (Nam Fung Wan) is a popular spot for snorkelling.

A favourite destination among day-charter clients, Clear Water Bay beach is tucked away on the northeastern coast of Sai Kung.

TO THE SOUTH

Turning south, Sham Wan Beach on Lamma Island is best known as the only regular nesting site for green sea turtles in the South China Sea. This beautiful turtle beach is open to the public from June 1 to October 31, once the turtle nesting period is over.

Repulse Bay Beach is perhaps Hong Kong Island’s most popular beach. Nestled on the south side backed by striking hiking hills, the bay and beach have a colonial charm and resort-like feel.

Nearby, and also surrounded by hills, Deep Water Bay is a bathing beach in the city, a full view of which can also be appreciated at the mountaintop of Ocean Park, a few nautical miles away in Aberdeen.

Sailing past Hong Kong’s many buildings on the Lagoon 620

“For a two-day, one-night charter, I recommend cruising to Sai Kung Country Park and Tai Long Wan for a day of exploration and spending the night at Double Haven, where the waters are calm and serene,” said Laura Verbrugge, Asiamarine’s Head of Charter Team.

“One of our most popular three-day itineraries in the cooler months from September to February is to explore the remote Soko Islands, as well as Lamma Island in the southern part of Hong Kong.”

SOKO ISLANDS

Departing from Hong Kong Island’s Central Piers or Aberdeen on the south side, the voyage begins to the Soko Islands – located at the far southwest corner of Hong Kong’s territory. Once home to a small community of farmers and fishermen, today mostly only abandoned houses, ruins, and shrines remain.

Consisting of Tai A Chau, Siu A Chau and several smaller nearby islets, the area is often visited by Chinese white dolphins and porpoises, making it an excellent site for rare sightings of these beautiful marine animals. It has a very quiet anchorage and pristine waters, perfect for an overnight stay.

The interior of the Lagoon 51 is a great place to socialise

On the second day, guests can either stay in the Soko Islands to enjoy water toys, beaches and relaxation or go sailing to Tai O fishing village. This charming and popular tourist destination attracts numerous visitors who come to spend their day and soak in the village’s idyllic life, admire the traditional stilt houses, and savour local treats. This is followed by a walk on Lantau Island and a visit to the long and sandy Cheung Sha Beach.

On day three, the Lagoon catamaran cruises in the direction of Lamma Island, the third-largest in Hong Kong with a small population of fewer than 10,000 locals and expats. Also one of the best spots to admire the sunset in Hong Kong, Lamma has long been known as a laid-back place with a ‘hipsterish’ vibe, though it still clings on to the traditional way of life associated with fishing villages on the outlying islands.

There are many great restaurants in Yung Shue Wan village, and the island has plenty of small and clean beaches, with Sham Wan the most famous one because of the sea turtles. The beach and bay are closed from June 1 to October 31 during the rare turtle’s mating season.

UNESCO GEOPARK

Other multi-day charters with Asiamarine from March to September include cruising to Hoi Ha Wan Marine Park, which has very good water quality and diverse marine life and coral communities. This trip includes a night in Double Haven, perhaps one of Hong Kong’s most beautiful areas, and a visit to the UNESCO Geopark’s three larger islands.

Double Haven is a popular cruising area in the northeast part of Hong Kong

The ‘Maldives of Hong Kong’ itinerary includes the famous Tai Long Wan and Sai Wan beaches, plus Bluff Island / Basalt Island, then cruising back to stop by the Ninepin Islands. Bluff Island is the largest of this group and features the spectacular columnar sea cliffs that make the Geopark famous. These towering vertiginous cliffs dominate the senses as you paddle below them.

Ninepin Islands is a hidden hexagonal column paradise in Hong Kong. A series of 29 volcanic islands in the Sai Kung area. The hexagonal columns can be seen from afar, and the dramatic formation gives them a certain exotic air. This uninhabited island features beautiful water and sea caves.

Another itinerary for sightseeing at the Geopark begins in Sai Kung and after about 30 minutes reaches Jin Island. The rock there is rather fragmented, but the form of the hexagonal rock columns is clearly visible. Jin Island got its Chinese name from a bell-shaped sea arch at its south end.

Sailing on, the Lagoon soon comes to Fa Shan, of High Island, where a neat array of soaring hexagonal rock columns lines the shore. At the end of Fa Shan is an islet, called Po Pin Chau, with towering rock columns arranged uniformly on the sea cliff that make the formation look like a giant pipe organ.

The Ung Kong Group lies south of Fa Shan and a 10-minute boat ride will reveal the famous sculptural rock-column layer formations along the cliff face of Wang Chau.

So, if you’re living in Hong Kong, or visiting, start planning a Lagoon catamaran charter excursion with Asiamarine to some of these amazing places to escape the city and relax in the varied natural beauty of its extensive coastline and islands.

asiamarine.com

catamarans-lagoon.com

Get off-grid on a luxury wooden-hulled sailing yacht in Indonesia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Indonesia Sailing in style with Silolona Sojourns

June 6, 2024
4:39 pm

Remote islands east of Bali, aboard Silolona and Si Datu Bua offer aesthetic exploration above and below water and cultural insights in lesser-visited ports of call, through Silolona Sojourns

Silolona at dusk in the volcanic Indonesian island landscape

Stepping aboard either of these roomy vessels, and enjoying the voyage through Nusa Tenggara, also historically known as the Spice Islands, from the sprawling fore and aft deck areas, with the sound of the wind in the sails, is a good start to the beginning of a real holiday charter escape.

Silolona Sojourns operates the two very comfortably furnished yachts, upon which charters generally start from a week’s stay aboard, with all meals, crew, tour/expedition leader and a certain amount of marine toys (including kayaks, snorkel and scuba gear, waterskiing) included within booking fees – and some requiring a surcharge. Cabins are decorated in keeping with the stained timber of the main decks: warm, luxurious and well served with amenities.

Si Datu Bua, like Silolona has generous and comfortable main-deck lounging areas

Silolona was the first charter boat, built of sustainable selected Borneo ironwood and other hardwoods to a design that melds traditional Indonesian fisher-folk phinisi with a few simplified lines in the interpretation by Kasten Marine Design studio, USA, and a state-of-the-art navigation and communication system. Within the 49.8m length overall, and 10m beam are three kingsize master suites, and two queen-size cabins with extra child beds available for all.

At 40.2m overall length, 3.2m wide at maximum draft and with a relaxed cruising speed of 10 knots, Si Datu Bua, the operator’s second hull has a kingsize double suite and two queen-size ones (children’s beds can be set up in any of these) and is also equipped with two RIB tenders.

One fascinating island cluster to visit is Flores, which has maintained much of its indigenous culture in several pockets of its largely rural settlements.

The adventure through the Flores Archipelago is filled with a stunning chain of narrow, rugged islands crowned with dramatic volcanoes, often adorned with untamed natural beauty. Each island in this group boasts elements of its own traditional culture, handwoven textiles, and dialects.

The Koo Rai ritual dance also displays local ikat fabric weaving

Life here remains beautifully simple, with communities thriving on farming and fishing, maintaining a way of life that has changed little over generations.

With Silolona Sojourns, your journey begins in Maumere, the capital of the main Flores Island, and culminates on the unspoiled shores of Sumba Island. This region is known for its exceptional diving and snorkelling.

White sand and pristine waters abound around Flores

Secluded bays, pristine beaches and tranquil anchorages abound around these waters and the cultural richness of the islands is captivating.

Ancient rituals, dances, traditional ikat weaving and tribal dwellings still exist. A unique ritual of hundreds of men on horseback, signalling the arrival of seaworms is one of many of the archipelago’s mystical cultural events to behold.

On Savu Island, the horse is a main mode of transport

While colourful coral and fish always impress in this vicinity, one of the most spectacular sights is above the water line: Batutara Volcano, standing alone in the middle of the sea, regularly emitting fiery boulders. Nearby, at a black-sand beach, you can walk right into the water to snorkel or dive among vibrant corals that sparkle like precious gems against the dark backdrop.

Si Datu Bua, in full sail-power glory

Luxury yacht charter specialist Silolona Sojourns has been offering personalised yacht expeditions in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia, for 20 years

silolona.com

Treat yourself to a VIP charter on a Sanlorenzo SL90A in Hong Kong

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Treat yourself to a VIP charter on a Sanlorenzo SL90A in Hong Kong

May 30, 2024
6:09 pm

From June, one more hull joins the existing SL90A in offering charter guests the chance to enjoy refined cruising around local waters

With summer nearly here, a chance to spoil yourself, family and friends has this tempting prospect: a charter from packages that start at a four-hour hire aboard a true superyacht. The Sanlorenzo SL90A, is something of a design icon and curiosity. The ‘A’ stands for Asymmetrical due to the layout that removes outdoor side decks along the port side of the yacht, in order to gain more interior space. The side-decking is in place on the starboard side, allowing access to the substantial flybridge.

One Sanlorenzo SL90A is already in service and a second hull of the same model is due to join Simpson Yacht Charter in June.

Interiors are light-filled, thanks to large windows which drop down completely on the port side.

Dining seating and sofas offer lots of areas with privacy throughout the 90ft SL90A, for small groups within a charter – all with great views out to sea.

Events can enjoy expansive areas on the top deck’s covered, open-sided flybridge, which has its own bar counter, refrigerators and freezers.

Optional add-ons of water sports are easily arranged to enjoy some jet-skiing, wake surfing or speedboat rides.

There are two cabins – the master cabin is pictured below – and a lower deck salon with sofa seating that converts into two single beds.

A crew of five is recommended to attend to everything required for a smooth charter experience – events may require more crew. The ideal passenger count is 15 persons but 20 are easily accommodated.

simpsonyachtcharter.com

Superyacht charters in Greece

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Superyacht charters in Greece

December 7, 2023
2:53 pm

If you’re looking for charter ideas for summer 2024, Greece should be among your top candidates. And with the new Camper & Nicholsons office in Athens, the Aegean Sea is more accessible than ever.
Words: Nick Hung; Photos: Camper & Nicholsons

Elafonisos is about 100nm southwest of Athens and 120nm west of Santorini

With over 6,000 islands to choose from, Greece has been called ‘the Caribbean of Europe’. And it’s currently one of the world’s hottest spots to charter, with about a quarter of global superyacht charters starting, ending or cruising in Greece, according to Camper & Nicholsons.

Julien Solari, Camper & Nicholsons’ Chief Commercial Officer Asia, says: “Greece is one of the very best destination for charterers from all over the world. From the iconic islands of Mykonos and Santorini in the amazing Cyclades to the marvellous and historical city of Athens, this country offers incredible scenery and experiences for charterers.

“We’ve witnessed lots of interest from our clients in Asia for this destination. Many booked charters last summer and we’re already booking yachts for summer 2024.”

Santorini (pictured) and Mykonos are the most famous of the Cyclades islands

To cater to a growing global demand for charters and local appetite for yachts, Camper & Nicholsons has opened a new office in Athens headed by Christos Chatzigiakoumis, the company’s Managing Director for Greece, who says the country’s coastline has a mix of ancient and modern.

“You might spend your day on a remote beach with transparent waters, have a barbecue on shore, then a few hours later be at an extravagant beach bar surrounded by celebrities,” he explains.

Interestingly, the new Athens bureau is located on the old international airport site. Thirty thousand square metres of tarmac, together with the concrete terminal hall, are currently being upcycled into Europe’s largest urban park – surpassing London’s Hyde Park – with 31,000 native trees and three million indigenous plants.

Eratosthenes, a Swan 112, is among Camper & Nicholsons’ Greece-based charter yachts

Hellenikon Metropolitan Park will reopen with 400 marina berths in 2025. “It proves Athens is a key entertainment hub for luxury travellers and international yachtsmen,” Chatzigiakoumis says. “The Hellenikon project’s 10,000 new residences will give a new dimension to Greek yachting by generating a new clientele.”

The main charter season is from May until the end of October, when “it’s still beautiful in southern destinations like Santorini,” according to Sylvia Katsamaki, Charter Manager and Charter Broker at Camper & Nicholsons.

“Greece offers a unique charter experience from geographical and cultural perspectives,” she says. “One aim of our new office is to make Athens a principal Mediterranean charter hub. The Athens bureau can organise helicopter tours over the Acropolis, down to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, and across to the Greek islands. There are many touch-and-go helipads around Greece.”

CIRCLING THE CYCLADES

Highlights are a vivid mix of ancient and modern. Take Mykonos, which swells with a summer population of 50,000. The beach club Scorpios looks like a Mayan temple dedicated to hedonistic pleasure. On summer evenings, beach fires usher shamanic rituals, bouzouki beats and DJ sets.

The stunning Kolona Beach on Kythnos about 50nm southeast of Athens

At midnight, alfresco club Astra throbs with hands-in-the-air tunes under swaying palms. At dawn, yoga starts with a sun salutation above the island’s sugar cube houses. Mykonos has barely slept since Herodotus wrote about it in 430 BCE.

Too intense? Sail on to Delos, 10 minutes away. One of the ancient world’s most sacred islands has a population of just 14. The island birthplace of Apollo and Artemis features a Doric temple, a Dionysian theatre and a pre-Christian synagogue. In Greece, there’s something for every age and interest. And all within a few nautical miles.

Particularly popular for charters are the 220 islands of the Cyclades, which translates as ‘circle’, enabling guests to experience destinations like Mykonos, Amorgos and Santorini in one sun-kissed loop.

Stunning Greek architecture along the Elafonisos coast

Greece’s first cookbook author was born on Sifnos. On the island, guests can eat mastelo, an only munch-here stew featuring goat, red wine, dill and vine twigs. Lunches can be walked off on the Sifnos Trails. “In the Cyclades, we’ve seen a trend for live-like-a-local activities,” Katsamaki says.

DIVING IN THE SPORADES

One classic Aegean sight has only just opened – after 2,500 years. The Peristera shipwreck was discovered by fisherman Dimitris Mavrikis in 19m of gin-clear ocean in the Sporades islands, north of Athens.

The site rewrites history by proving that vessels could carry 150 tonnes of luxurious cargo – in this case black-glazed bowls, lavish tableware and 4,200 amphoras of wine – before the Roman (or indeed superyacht) age.

The 30m Custom Line Seven S is packed with toys

Guests can now dive what has been dubbed “the Parthenon of shipwrecks”. Camper & Nicholsons charter brokers can liaise with a local dive team to arrange the descent.

As this scuba site is governed by Greece’s Department of Maritime Antiquities, a maximum of eight divers can scour the artefacts peppered on the Poseidon grass during strict time slots. They may not be alone. The Peristera shipwreck sits within the Alonissos Marine Park, a watery thoroughfare for sperm whales, striped dolphins and rare Mediterranean monk seals.

The shipwreck is not the only treasure in the 24 islands of the Sporades, which translates as ‘sporadic’, as they are strewn haphazardly like emerald mountains on an indigo carpet. Only four of the islands – Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros – are inhabited. On Skiathos beaches like Agia Paraskevi, you’re more likely to see a loggerhead turtle than another superyacht.

Alfresco dining is always a pleasure in Greece

“It’s little wonder that more yachts are being chartered and purchased for Aegean cruising than ever before,” says Chatzigiakoumis, who believes several variables led to the recent surge. He points out the growing professionalism of Greek crews, the reinvention of Greece as a high-net-worth tourism hub, and rising wealth across the Aegean.

“All of this culminates in a superyacht metamorphosis. It makes me believe Greece can lure an increasing number of new buyers, charterers and customers.”

YACHTS FOR CHARTER

Camper & Nicholsons has a diverse range of yachts for charter in the Mediterranean and we highlight five recommended for exploring Greece. Ranging from €58,000 per week to €1,200,000 per week, all are managed by the Athens office and include three based in the country.

The 88m Project X was built in Greece by Golden Yachts and delivered in 2022

The new 88m Project X is a lavish option and although it only charters in Greece on request, it holds a special local connection as it was built in the country by Golden Yachts and only launched last year when it was a star at the Monaco Yacht Show. Looked after by 28 crew, the yacht offers nine cabins for up to 12 guests including a master suite facing a private forward deck with jacuzzi.

Outdoor attractions include a beach club with fold-down balconies and a 7.5m-long swimming pool on the aft main deck, where an outdoor cinema can be set up. The sun deck has a well-equipped gym and a jacuzzi, while guests can also relax in a wellness suite with spa, Hammam, Finnish sauna and beauty salon.

Project X is among the most luxurious ways of exploring the islands

The vast saloon includes a self-playing piano and a taste of the Greek artwork seen throughout the yacht. The formal dining room includes a long, 16-seat table and vast wine ‘fridge’, while other indoor attractions include a triple-height glass atrium and a large cylinder lift linking all the decks.

The yacht is served by four tenders – a 10m limousine, 9m classic chase boat and two 6.25m sport RIBs – while toys include four Sea-Doo jet-skis, three Seabobs, a Fliteboard, four kayaks, two paddleboards, wakeboards, water-skis, waterslide, net pool, towable inflatables, plus diving and fishing equipment. There are even eight bikes for trips on land.

Meamima is a 59m six-cabin Benetti with two tenders, two jet-skis, Seabobs and waterslide

Meamina, meanwhile, is a 59m Benetti tri-deck with 15 crew and offers accommodation for up to 12 guests in six cabins led by a split-level, full-beam master suite with a study. The VIP is on the bridge deck. The main saloon includes a piano, while meals can be enjoyed in the formal indoor dining area, alfresco on the aft upper deck or even on the sun deck.

The yacht has a child-friendly set-up, while toys include a 9m RIB, 7.4m Pascoe tender, two Sea-Doo jet-skis, Seabobs and paddleboards. However, the crowd favourite may be the waterslide that starts from the sun deck, where other attractions include an inviting Jacuzzi and a gym.

The 50m, six-cabin La Pellegrina 1 is among Camper & Nicholsons’ charter fleet

The 50m Couach La Pellegrina 1 was recently purchased by a Greek owner and will be based in Greece. Managed by a crew of 10, the sleek tri-deck has six guest cabins with marble en-suite bathrooms. The master suite on the bridge deck even has a private deck and gym equipment, while the VIP is forward on the main deck.

Outdoor areas include a stunning sun deck with a central jacuzzi, sunpads and sofas, as well as a covered dining area. Guests can also dine indoors or outdoors on the main deck.

Sevens S, a Greece-based Custom Line with five cabins

Seven S, also based in Greece, is a 30m Custom Line motor yacht maintained by a full-time, professional crew of five. Fresh from a 2021 refit, the yacht offers accommodation for up to 12 guests in five en-suite cabins comprising a main-deck master suite, two doubles and two twins with an extra Pullman berth. The light, elegant saloon includes an eight-seat dining table, while the aft cockpit offers alfresco dining.

The flybridge also offers covered dining as well as sunpads and a crane that helps deploy some of the water toys, which include a Williams SportJet 435 tender, jet-ski, Seabobs, kayaks, paddleboards, water-skis, kneeboard, wakeboard and snorkelling equipment. There’s also a floating platform and towable inflatables.

The 34m Eratosthenes offers a stunning way of sailing the islands

If you’re looking for a sailing yacht, the 34m Eratosthenes is a Greece-based Swan 112 that has benefited from a 2021 refit at the Nautor Swan shipyard in Finland. The clean aft deck can be dressed in sunpads and outdoor furniture, while the protected cockpit has four sides of seating and two foldable tables. Water toys include paddleboards, a kayak, water-skis and fishing tackle.

The bright interior features the stunning woodwork the Finnish shipyard is known for and has a saloon and dining area on separate levels. There’s a full-beam master suite and two twin cabins with a Pullman, plus accommodation for six crew.

Eratosthenes has a split-level saloon and three guest cabins

Katsamaki says: “If you love sailing and charter a yacht like Eratosthenes, you get an unforgettable sailing experience around the Aegean Sea to the east or Ionian Islands to the west. You can benefit from the Greek winds yet enjoy sheltered bays everywhere. If you charter a motor yacht, you can easily do island hoping and wake up in a different place every morning.

“For me, Greece is the definition of summer and there’s no better way to experience it than cruising around the islands on a yacht. There are hundreds of islands to visit, many different route options and mainland attractions people shouldn’t miss. And if you charter once, you’ll want to come back again and again.”

cni@camperandnicholsons.com

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Charter in Indonesia: Nala Leads The Pack

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Indonesia: Nala leads the pack

October 12, 2023
10:05 am

Founder and director of LDS Lifestyles, Lal De Silva is the man behind the 37m Nala, currently for charter through Indonesia’s Yacht Sourcing and set to be followed by two more phinisis.
Words: Andrew Dembina; Photos: Yacht Sourcing

The 37.3m Nala has a 6.6m beam

Lal De Silva has made a serious splash with his high-quality lifestyle businesses in Indonesia. Following an early career as a pastry chef, culminating in the five-star kitchens of the former Regent, Jakarta hotel (now rebranded as Four Seasons), the Sri Lanka-born entrepreneur set up the country’s first European-style bakery chain, The Harvest, in 2004. The business grew exponentially across the country and De Silva sold it in 2016.

Living in Indonesia, with its scattering of more than 17,000 islands, De Silva then began to enjoy boat charters, specifically aboard native traditional wooden-hulled phinisi pleasure craft that are double masted, offering power under sail, via inboard motor, or both. He enjoyed it so much that he began building them, with some elevated touches of luxury.

Lal De Silva, founder of LDS Lifestyles

Although phinisi cruising is possible across much of Indonesia, it was in some of the country’s most treasured aesthetic waters – the Raja Ampat archipelago – that De Silva was smitten.

“I’ve travelled around the world and seen a lot of beautiful sights,” he recalls. “However, I was on a friend’s boat and as soon as I saw the mountains of Raja Ampat, its colourful birdlife and the very nice people living there, I fell in love with it.”

De Silva commissioned Nala after falling in love with the Raja Ampat archipelago

He was also charmed by the character of the indigenous vessel on the voyage. “During that trip, I remember thinking that one day I would build my own boat like this and spend a lot more time enjoying these beautiful islands.”

In late 2021 he went on to commission one from a boat-builder in Sulawesi Island, where most of the skilled phinisi shipyards are based, and from there he instructed builds of a further two hulls.

TASTE FOR LUXURY

By then, De Silva had already acquired a taste for boat ownership, following his purchase of a brand new Azimut 66 flybridge motor yacht in 2016.

Nala is the first of three phinisis ordered by Lal De Silva

He selected the Italian brand’s 21m model due to its sophisticated design, high-quality materials, performance, as well as the comprehensive after-sales maintenance and services offered by its Jakarta dealership.

While enjoying cruises aboard his yacht, with its designer interiors, luxurious deck areas and high-end audio-visual entertainment systems, he thought he would really appreciate these aspects on a phinisi. This cumulative ‘Eureka moment’ led De Silva in his building of three phinisi hulls, all destined to be fitted to De Silva’s high expectations in Bali.

The first, the 37.3m Nala, was completed last year and has already seen charter action, while the next two are expected to be ready before the end of the year. De Silva selected Yacht Sourcing, founded by Boum Senous in 2016, as the Central Agent for chartering Nala.

Boum Senous (left) of Yacht Sourcing, Nala’s charter CA

“We looked around for an agency, I met Boum and I liked him. We had a few meetings and I liked what I heard about his plans for charter and taking care of the boat. After I made a couple of trips with the boat, they started to work with us from the end of last year.”

LDS STYLES NALA

Nala’s design concepts came from De Silva himself, and were then formally drafted by his in-house team to pass to contractors. LDS Lifestyles is divided into property, restaurant and gym divisions, within which interior and graphic design are largely handled internally.

Nala offers accommodation for 12 guests in five cabins including a family cabin for four

The maximum capacity on board Nala is 12 guests and 10 crew. Opting for large windows in the five en-suite guest cabins – the family cabin can sleep four – as well as the saloon, fabrics are sumptuous when possible and more practical on and around outdoor deck areas on the 6.6m-beam yacht.

Cabins and the saloon showcase textiles, wood carvings and other traditional Indonesian arts and crafts, set against clean, simple backgrounds.

With three large decks, dining can be enjoyed under canopy on the upper deck, alfresco in the cockpit, or in the air-conditioned saloon on the main deck. There’s also a lounging area in the saloon.

Nala offers large outdoor areas

At night, the upper deck – among other outdoor spaces – offers guests sunset views and superb star studded night skies, and has been known to host a guest DJ or two to plug into its on-board Bose audio system. All unsheltered outdoor areas can serve as sun decks during the day, with the two main-deck cabins having immediate access to balcony space.

EXPLORING INDONESIA

A trained scuba diver himself, De Silva insisted on having top equipment for exploring the depths, which is all inclusive of the charter cost, as are other water toys.

Nala is well equipped with RIBs and toys

All are high-spec models from top brands. Scuba gear is Aqualung, jet-skis are by Sea-Doo and the two 6m custom RIB boats (each with 10 passenger capacity) are by Outborn. Two kayaks, each built for two users, are also available on demand. Powered by one 400hp Mitsubishi S6B engine, Nala cruises comfortably without sails at about eight knots.

Nala’s clients so far have been from the UK, France, the US and Brazil, among other places. “Indonesians tend to prefer modern yachts rather than phinisis,” De Silva says.

He adds that during the Covid-19 pandemic, as Indonesians could not holiday abroad much, the younger generation started travelling east of Bali, with several reporting on the amazing scenery of Raja Ampat and that of the Eastern Nusa Tenggara archipelago.

For instance, some visited Labuan Bajo on Flores Island, long popular with overseas visitors due to its proximity to the waters of Komodo National Park, favoured by scuba divers, and to Komodo Island by dragon-spotters.

“During and after Covid, the number of Indonesians going boating for the first time have grown. Having a dive master on the boat to supervise scuba diving and snorkelling activities is a strength for us. And with our restaurant business experience, we try to serve food and drinks to a higher level than many others, to meet the expectations of those used to dining out in Jakarta.”

www.lds-voyages.com

www.yachtsourcing.com

Charter in Vietnam: From Halong to Phu Quoc

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Charter in Vietnam: From Halong to Phu Quoc

August 31, 2023
12:58 pm

Since becoming a dealer for leading European builders, Vietyacht has developed a thriving charter business dominated by Jeanneau motorboats, with Phu Quoc Island marking the company’s sixth base around Vietnam.
Words: Andrew Dembina Photos: Vietyacht

We’re sitting on a large sunpad on the bow of a Jeanneau NC14 in Halong Bay. With little strain on the boat’s twin Volvo Penta pod-engine propulsion, we’re leaving the large tourist and day-tripper cruise boats standing, as we enjoy a private charter with Vietyacht.

Cruising smoothly and quietly at 20 knots or so towards the limestone karsts and islets the area is famed for, the appeal of touring this region of northeast Vietnam on a 46ft motor yacht soon becomes apparent.

Later, at slower speeds along calm waters, we’re informed by one of the three crew of some of the ‘rock-alikes’ in the vicinity, as we pass amusingly nicknamed formations such as Cat Island and Chicken Islands, which look a little like the silhouette of two fowls kissing beaks.

Visitors can view the variety of islets at the core of this UNESCO World Heritage Site during a short cruise of 2-3 hours like ours. We also pass caves, a floating restaurant and a small kayak and watersports pontoon.

For a sunset cruise, passengers can opt for paddleboarding, kayaking or jet-ski activities, or a swim from an anchorage, while taking in the surrounds and enjoying a fruit platter and a soft drink or something a little stronger.

Day charters ranging up to 10 hours are available, with lunch or dinner options and activities such as cave visits, fishing and squid fishing, while staying on board for one or two nights can also be arranged. Overseas visitors, mostly from Japan, China, Korea, India and Europe, make up 20 per cent of VietyachtClub’s charter guests.

STRONG START IN HALONG

VietyachtClub’s fleet at Halong Bay offers a variety of mostly Jeanneau motor yachts including Merry Fisher and Velasco 43F models.

Halong Bay is one of its growing number of charter operations in Vietnam’s more popular coastal regions, where other brands of motor and sailing yachts are offered, also through sister brand Luxyacht.

Outside the laid-back Halong Bay dockside office is a small Vietsec PPC-hull sailing catamaran, one of eight that comprised Vietyacht founder Duc Thuan Nguyen’s original fleet. A keen sailor, he currently enjoys a Jeanneau Sunfast monohull when leisure time allows.

Given Covid-19 interruptions and complications, the progress of the Vietyacht dealership and charter business has been remarkably fast since it commenced in 2015 following Thuan’s previous focus on distributing marine equipment and components.

Vietyacht started representing Jeanneau from 2017, soon adding sister brand Prestige to the portfolio before Fountaine Pajot also joined the following year. Slovenia’s Alfastreet Marine, which produces hybrid and electric boats, is also part of Vietyacht’s offerings.

In 2019, after securing the three French brands, Thuan became the Vietnam dealer for Ferretti Yachts, Riva and Pershing of Italy’s Ferretti Group under a new company, Luxyacht. Two Rivas and a Ferretti Yachts 500 have been sold into the country.

To date, the sister dealerships have sold more than 60 new yachts, although Jeanneau is the most popular of all the brands and makes up most charter yachts in VietyachtClub.

Duc Thuan Nguyen

“When I started in the yachting business in Vietnam, the market was brand new. At that moment, there were no new imported yachts and no marinas or jetties for yachts,” recalls Thuan, who said a Jeanneau Leader 36 was the country’s first new imported yacht.

“At that time, clients were wondering if it was easier to buy a house or a supercar. They wondered about how to use a boat, where to put it, who would take care of it. That’s why I thought about establishing a yachting club to provide berths, maintenance, supply crew, essentially an A to Z service, so clients could just pay and play.”

SPREADING AROUND VIETNAM

As owners rarely had time to use yachts more than a one or two days a month, Thuan improved their financial return by operating charters on their yachts on free days, which led to VietyachtClub. The first charter base was in Halong, site of the company’s headquarters.

“In Halong Bay, there are about 500 large cruising boats, so we wanted to offer something more private,” Thuan says.

There are now VietyachtClub branches further down the coast in Thanh Hoa province, Danang and Nha Trang, plus Ho Chi Minh City, while this summer one more launched on Phu Quoc Island, off the country’s southwest coast.

“Those cover the main coastal areas for clients,” Thuan says. “Further locations will depend on whether demand increases.”

Despite more use during the Covid-19 pandemic – except for periods when being outdoors was not allowed – Vietyacht and Luxyacht owners and charter clients are not generally keen on staying aboard overnight.

“Halong Bay waters are quite smooth, so it’s comfortable to stay overnight, but Vietnamese clients prefer day trips,” says Thuan, who adds that one owner has converted one of their boat’s three cabins into a much-used office.

Like in many parts of the world, the pandemic led to greater interest in yachting in Vietnam, leading to more sales and charter demand, Thuan says. Brand-wise, he hopes to expand from the seven currently stocked brands to 10.

However, import and luxury goods tax, along with VAT, remain a factor. They currently add up to about 50 per cent for private-use purchases, with accumulative taxes at 20 per cent for boats bought to be chartered.

There are some interesting potential changes on the horizon. In the past couple of years, Thuan feels some good-quality local boat builders have emerged. “They’re doing well and some people are buying these to charter, so we’re looking into the quality of the best of these.”

Furthermore, real-estate developers have plans to build more marinas for owners and for visiting yachts, should the Vietnamese government relax restrictions for overseas-flagged vessels. “There are signals this will happen in the near future,” Thuan says.

“An international marina certificate was just issued at AnaMarina in Nha Trang, so we hope to see races from Hong Kong and Hainan Island to Nha Trang soon.”

VietyachtClub is ready and waiting to provide visitors – sailors or otherwise – with fun-filled motorboat charters in the country’s most scenic areas, whether it’s Nha Trang or many of the other tourist hot spots from Halong Bay in the northeast to Phu Quoc in the southwest.

www.vietyacht.vn

www.luxyacht.vn

www.vietyachtclub.com

Vela sails into high demand in Indonesia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Vela sails into high demand in Indonesia

August 24, 2023
2:33 pm

A stunning six-cabin phinisi delivered in 2022, the 50m Vela is already in high demand for memorable charters in Indonesia, available through Camper & Nicholsons.
Words: Julia Zaltzman
Photos: Camper & Nicholsons

Built in Sulawesi, Vela was launched in 2022

In the 20th century, phinisis were built by the seafaring cultures of South Sulawesi to carry exotic spices, sandalwood and textiles through the ancient spice trading route. Today, new phinisis are primarily Indonesian charter yachts built for cruising, diving and recreational activities.

Although the onboard pursuits may have altered, the distinctive architecture and boatbuilding skills of the UNESCO-recognised Bugis Makassar community have not, resulting in striking new builds, such as the 50m Vela, which offers a harmonious blend of ancient craftsmanship and enchanting cruising opportunities.

Vela is among the newest phinisis operating charters

Accommodating up to 12 adults and two children, Vela is available for charter throughout Indonesia with Camper & Nicholsons. The boat’s cruising itinerary takes in Raja Ampat in the winter, where guests swim with manta rays during drift and reef dives in richly biodiverse waters.

In the summer months, Bali and the Komodo National Park offer shoreside sightings of Komodo dragons and whale shark encounters, while the option of exploring the famed Spice Islands in between seasons allows for treks into rainforests in search of the elusive Bird of Paradise.

Most dining takes place outdoors, such as on the foredeck

There’s also the option of exploring off-the-beaten-track destinations in Flores, east of Komodo, and the Alor archipelago further east.

Vela (meaning shoreline) is one of the largest phinisis on water. Built by Pak Haji Abdullah in 2022 at its Sulawesi shipyard, the boat successfully unites old construction techniques with a modern offering.

Its two hotelier owners, Dimitri Tran and Adrien Portier, have brought their hospitality expertise to the water with the aim of redefining the phinisi charter experience.

View of the bow from the bridge

“We wanted to build a boat that feels like it belongs in Indonesia, but to standards that are more comparable to a superyacht in the Mediterranean,” says Tran, who celebrated Vela’s delivery by enjoying a 10-day Indonesian cruise with Portier and friends, with fireworks and beach barbecues among highlights.

“Modern phinisis are powered by an engine with the sails kept for their aesthetic beauty, but we wanted Vela’s sails to be more than decoration and for the boat to be able to sail whenever wanted.”

BUILT TO SAIL

Designed by naval architect Tresno Seery, Vela is a tall phinisi and boasts a large sail surface with 650sqm of off-white gaff-rigged sails.

The aft deck has wraparound seating and a covered dining table

The sleek, pronounced hull is made from durable ironwood – which ensures good seakeeping in rough, high seas – and a superstructure primarily crafted from teak.

The boat’s 32m-high masts and classic schooner rigging with winches, booms and gaffs set her apart from other phinisi yachts and deliver impressive sailing capabilities that showcase true artisanal skill. A double keel gives the boat weight under the waterline, while the implementation of a marine cooling system – another notable difference – further enhances guests’ onboard comfort.

The lounge offers views through large windows

Vela’s spars are made of carbon, but the masts are crafted from steel. The main mast doubles as a crane to lift the yacht’s toys and tenders in and out of the water. It eliminates the need for a separate hydraulic crane on deck, freeing up the exterior areas for dining, relaxing and socialising, as well as enhancing the efficiency and convenience of the boat’s charter operations.

The opportunities for fun on the water are boundless. In addition to two Zodiac tenders, the yacht carries a fantastic selection of water toys including two Yamaha jet-skis, waterskis, wakeboards, paddleboards, surfboards, kayaks and various towables.

Indoor dining in the saloon

For guests keen to explore beneath the waves under the expert guidance of Vela’s dedicated diving instructor, there are two Bauer air compressors, a Nitrox generator and 17 sets of diving gear for an autonomous set-up in even the most remote areas.

RESPONSIBLE STYLE

Back on board, guests unwind at the hands of Vela’s trained masseuse or toast bright-red sunsets from the stargazing deck with signature cocktails, crafted by the onboard mixologist.

The master suite on the bridge deck has 270-degree views and its own balcony

Solid teak furniture produced by local artisans using teak from sustainably managed sources is found throughout the yacht. In addition to the yacht’s zero-plastic policy, reef-safe bath and body products made with natural ingredients and bamboo toothbrushes are offered in respect of Indonesia’s delicate cruising environment and responsible charter offerings.

Likewise, the interior is both refined and contemporary with carefully sourced materials chosen by the owners from overseas. There are white linen and fabrics by brands such as Hermès, Dedar Milano and Rubelli, reading lamps by Contardi Italia, brass door handles made in Italy by Olivari, and silverware produced by Cutipol in Portugal.

The large VIP suite is on the main deck

Among Vela’s standout features are the six en-suite guest cabins, which include the full-beam bridge deck master with a private terrace, and the similarly-sized VIP on the main deck, both offering panoramic views out to sea.

Each cabin features a bathroom with Axor fittings and dressed in white marble and green tiles made by Balinese ceramics specialist Gaya. Hand-woven plant fabrics, traditional kimonos and decorative throw pillows made from natural plant-based indigo add an elegant touch.

Artworks have been sourced from leading galleries

A formal saloon is the yacht’s only indoor dining option, with nearly all meals taking place outdoors on either the main deck forward or aft. The chef’s culinary skills are far-reaching and tailored to guests’ preferences – nasi goreng with a side serving of sambal one night, mushroom risotto the next.

For the yacht’s 15 artworks, the owners collaborated with three of Indonesia’s leading contemporary galleries. “Our mandate was to showcase up-and-coming talent and highlight what Indonesian contemporary art is today,” Tran says.

Vela’s six en-suite guest cabins include two doubles in the hull

As Vela was built with charter in mind, Tran and Portier now have their sights set on further phinisi builds, smaller in size to accommodate couples and families, but always striking a careful balance between old and new. And with over 15 charters already booked on Vela for 2023, their first build is already resonating with adventurous charter guests looking to enjoy an authentic slice of phinisi life.

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Classic yachts for charter in Thailand

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Classic yachts for charter in Thailand

August 17, 2023
4:36 pm

Phuket is currently home to a growing collection of ‘classic’ yachts including a colourful collection for charter through Asia Global Yachting.

Note: The original article, Classic Appeal, appears in YACHT STYLE Issue 72 (click to read)

Maha Bhetra

Asia Global Yachting is shaking up the luxury charter scene in Phuket by launching a ‘Classic Line’ of boats dating back to the 1950s. The initial four-strong range of charter CAs includes stylish motor and sailing yachts ranging from 50ft to over 100ft, offering from two cabins to six suites, and hailing from Europe, Australia and Asia.

“We’ve created the Classic Line because we now have a line-up of vintage charter yachts including gentleman’s cruisers, sailing yachts and wooden boats. These charters are focused on easy-going cruising and time to enjoy your surroundings – the journey is the adventure,” says Nicolas Monges, founder and Managing Director of Asia Global Yachting (AGY) in Thailand.

Camara C

“Walking barefoot on a wooden deck connects us to nature but also give us a feeling of adventure and having the same sensations as sailors since the beginning of time. These yachts keep traditions alive and offer an experience reminiscent of a more romantic era of travel, yet with all the luxuries, amenities and toys today’s clients want.”

In terms of price, the new Classic Line is headed by Camara C, a 105ft all-steel motor yacht built in Scotland by Yarrow & Co and launched in 1961. After chartering for over three decades in the Mediterranean, the teak-decked superyacht completed an extensive refit in 2021 following her arrival in Phuket. She still tops out at 12 knots, so this is a boat for relaxing cruises, not speedy day trips.

Camara C

Chartering from US$14,000 a day, Camara C accommodates up to 12 guests in six interestingly arranged cabins including a full-beam master suite forward on the main deck.

On the lower deck, the five all-white en-suite cabins include a double and twin forward, while aft of the engine room are two symmetrical doubles plus a VIP with twin queen-sized beds in the stern. There’s also accommodation for six crew in the bow.

Camara C

The main deck offers cosy alfresco dining in a covered, rounded aft cockpit. The interior starts with a long, gorgeously furnished saloon with sofas on three sides and a dining table forward, followed by a large galley. The foredeck is a working area with a crane and space to store water toys, which include diving, fishing and snorkelling equipment, kayaks and a paddleboard, as well as a tender.

The flybridge is one of the most popular areas for guests, offering lots of clear deck space, a large deck-level sunbathing and lounging area aft, and a covered dining table midships just aft of the bridge.

Aventure

For a change of tack, there’s Aventure, the only sailing yacht in the Classic Line, but what a sailing yacht she is, with a strong track record of racing and chartering across Southeast Asia including in Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago.

A beautiful 95ft wooden ketch with a vintage style belying her relatively recent construction, she features a traditional design by Patrick Balta. The only 21st-century build in this feature, she was built of ironwood and mahogany in Sulawesi from 2007 before being outfitted and finished at the Ratanachai Shipyard in Phuket from 2011-13.

Aventure

Chartering from US$3,900/day, Aventure has a teak deck, giant steering wheel, nice outdoor area for meals overlooking the water and a forward area for sunpads. Below deck, a rich interior includes the main saloon with a chart table, dining area and lounge, a master suite aft and two en-suite doubles forward.

AGY’S WOODEN YACHTS

The 1954 Mami Wata, owned by Asia Global Yachting, is scheduled to start a new charter life later this summer following the completion of an extensive refit in Phuket.

Mami Wata

Described as a gentleman’s cruiser, the wooden 50-footer will be available from US$2,700/day, with up to eight guests in the day and four overnight in two cabins.

Set to celebrate its 70th birthday next year, Mami Wata was built in New South Wales by the historic Halvorsen shipyard, which was founded in Sydney in 1925 by Norwegian Lars Halvorsen and his sons – Harold, Peter, and Carl – after they arrived in Australia, following two years in South Africa.

Mami Wata

Mami Wata’s low-slung design includes an open upper deck that has a helm station with windshield, facing sofas, coffee table and loose chairs aft, while forward and down half a level is the saloon, which includes the lower helm and its classic ship’s wheel.

Like Mami Wata, the 90ft Maha Bhetra is owned by Asia Global Yachting and is well established in Phuket as a popular charter yacht. Among two Classic Line offerings built in Asia, the traditional, custom-built wooden motor yacht was handcrafted in Thailand and looks unlike any other boat at her home in Phuket Yacht Haven.

Maha Bhetra

The two-deck yacht was designed by the late Ed Tuttle, the American architect renowned for his work on Aman resorts in Thailand, Indonesia, India, Morocco, France, Greece and USA, The Sukhothai Bangkok hotel, and Park Hyatt hotels in Italy and France.

Delivered in 1994, Maha Bhetra is built of hardwood with teak flooring and welcomes guests on the main deck, which features three elegant full-width staterooms decorated with Southeast Asian antiques from the 18th century. In the bow is a cosy outdoor bench and table.

Maha Bhetra

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.

http://www.asiaglobalyachting.com

Sequoia: Hosting family adventures in Indonesia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Sequoia: Hosting family adventures in Indonesia

October 27, 2022
1:21 pm

With Indonesia reopening to visitors, the luxurious three-cabin Sequoia celebrates her fifth birthday by again welcoming charter guests looking for “an experience of a lifetime in a private setting”. Available through Camper & Nicholsons.

Kayaking from Sequoia

Fresh from a refit completed ahead of her fifth birthday in September 2022, the 26m Sequoia is enjoying a second wind as one of Indonesia’s leading luxury charter yachts, having had a two-year lull due to the pandemic.

The wooden schooner is again plying her trade in Raja Ampat and surrounding regions for the winter season from November to March before heading west to Komodo National Park from May to October

Sequoia has added a master cabin on the top deck since the photo was taken

Yessi Maya Sari, who owns Sequoia and Coral Triangle Safaris with her husband Kevin Corcoran, is relieved and delighted to see her beloved yacht and its 10-strong crew sailing again and doing what they do best – revealing Indonesia’s most spectacular coastal scenery to families or small groups.

“The greatest reward of owning Sequoia has been seeing the joy brought to families as they explore and connect to these precious reefs. The lack of tourism for the past two years was a down side, but fortunately the world has now largely opened again and we’re almost where we were before Covid,” says Yessi, who was born and raised in Sumatra, among the largest of Indonesia’s 18,000 islands.

Family time on the sky deck

“We offer a product and service that’s attractive to a specific niche, as Sequoia is one of only a few three-cabin wooden yachts for parties of six or less. We cater to ultra-high end clients looking for a connection to nature and their loved ones. In the end, it’s life’s experiences and not material things that bring joy. More than ever, we’re aware that experiences with those we love are what really matter most in life.”

LABOUR OF LOVE

A Certified Public Accountant, Yessi began her career at Johnson and Johnson, later working at L’Oreal, and Unilever, while also becoming increasingly interested in adventure travel, whether it was hiking Everest, skiing in the Rockies or scuba diving in Southeast Asia’s Coral Triangle, the latter inspiring the name of their company.

Paddleboards are among many toys

“I enjoyed my work, but I came to realise that my true passion was exploration of remote parts of the globe. This led Kevin and I to found Coral Triangle Safaris and build Sequoia. We believe our product is unmatched and can provide a family with an experience of a lifetime in a private setting.”

Kevin, who hails from Syracuse in New York state, worked in the implantable medical device market, bringing new technologies to market, and said his career helped the couple look ahead to the growing emphasis on experiences and exploration for discerning travellers.

“I was fortunate to be able work with some of the world’s most innovative doctors and I learned to work towards understanding future demand,” he says.

Island visits and hikes are popular activities

“In the case of our business, it may be that families are bored of going to luxury hotels and staring at their computer or phone. They now appear to be favouring more adventurous and active experiences that connect them to nature and each other.”

Designed for eco-conscious cruising, the hardwood yacht was hand-crafted by the Konjo boatbuilders over four years, yet with an American emphasis on safety and sustainability.

The Coral Triangle has the world’s most diverse marine life

Sequoia remains the only yacht in Indonesian waters built to US Coast Guard Safety Standards, and all components, including a low-consumption John Deere engine, generators and sanitation systems, were imported from the US. Completed in September 2017, the yacht conforms to EPA Tier 2 and Tier 3 emissions limits, while no single-use plastics are permitted.

“Our goal was to allow families to explore the world’s most pristine and biodiverse reefs in comfort and safety. It took over four years to complete because we took our time to build a classic, heirloom wooden yacht for future generations to enjoy,” Yessi says.

The new Sky Suite on the sky deck

Sequoia is like an ultra-luxury Swiss chalet on water. Although purposely modest in size at 86ft, it’s one of the most sophisticated, luxurious wooden yachts in Southeast Asia. Many of our guests never imagined that a wooden boat could be so comfortable and luxurious.”

REACHING FOR THE SKY

In fact, Sequoia’s modest size also enables a shallow draft of just 2m, enabling the yacht to cruise closer to beaches and mangroves that may be out of reach for large phinisis with a draft of over 3m or even 4m.

The sky deck provides a spectacular venue in the evening

Sequoia’s experienced Indonesian crew include several who have been with the yacht all her life. Depending on the guests’ desired activities and itinerary, the roster can include a cruise manager, butler, master therapist for spa treatments and a dive master.

The yacht is equipped with a Bauer Dive Mate air compressor and 10 full sets of new scuba and snorkelling gear, including children’s sizes, while PADI Scuba Diving courses are included in the weekly charter rate, which starts from about US$59,500.

Island Suite on the main deck

For many guests, chartering Sequoia is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion and ties in with a major family celebration such as an anniversary or birthday or even a child’s graduation.

“Many of our guests have already been to the finest hotels and resorts, so are looking for a deeper, more meaningful holiday,” Yessi says. “Our typical guest profile is an active family of four ready to travel to the other side of the planet to experience coastal waters and dive sites that look like Finding Nemo.”

Stairs down to the Island Suite

The all-wooden Sequoia provides a warm, welcoming home for a week or longer. Life for guests revolves around the main and upper decks, with the lower level dedicated to technical areas.

On the main deck, the central ‘Great Room’ is a cosy, covered alfresco dining area that sits beside the main galley and between two of the three en-suite guest cabins. Aft is the Island Suite, entered by an elegant, curved staircase, while forward is the Ocean Suite, which has an aft-facing bed.

The Ocean Suite is also on the main deck

The upper deck is also known as the sky deck and is home to the aft Sky Suite. Forward is Sequoia’s iconic sky dining area featuring two large circular loungers with folding canopies along with tables that can be set up for snacks, cocktails or full meals.

In the evening, the sky deck can be set up as an outdoor cinema for movies under the stars, offering a stunning setting to watch Finding Nemo or Finding Dori if you haven’t had enough of the underwater world.

The Great Room is typically used for breakfast

Further forward are stairs down to the foredeck or ‘middle deck’, another great outdoor area that has space for sunbeds, while down a couple more steps are more seating areas in the bow.

“We were extremely thoughtful in how we utilise space. Although we’re on the small side with only three large suites for up to six guests, there are no wasted spaces. Guests have multiple areas to dine, relax and connect, including a spa area and stunning outdoor dining areas,” Yessi says.

There are more hangouts in the bow

“We’re focused on a very specific market that places high value on comfort, luxury and unique experiences. For small families, we’ve created an intimate setting that can’t be found even in the top end resorts or other yachts. Also, Sequoia moves every day, creating entirely different landscapes, seascapes and experiences for guests.”

FUN ON AND IN THE WATER

As proud as they are of Sequoia, the owners are most proud of the experiences she offers. Onboard activities can range from cooking classes to arts and crafts activities for kids, while there are a huge number of toys suitable for both adults and children.

Sequoia’s activities include tube riding

The toy store includes inflatable kayaks and paddleboards, with waterskis and a two-person inflatable tube among high-adrenaline activities led by the 21ft Boston Whaler tender. Fishing is also available where permitted.

Underwater exploration is arguably the highlight of any holiday, with the dive instructor managing a full dive centre in one of the world’s best regions for diversity of marine life, whether you’re chartering in summer or winter. As Indonesia straddles the equator, yachts can sail pretty much sail and charter year-round, with April typically allocated for Sequoia’s annual maintenance.

Water-skiing is another activity with the tender

The popular summer hub is Komodo National Park, about 200nm east of Bali. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it’s well known for its namesake dragons and on-land attractions while also being ranked among the globe’s best for coral and marine life, with over 60 dive sites.

To the west, also among the Lesser Sunda Islands, is Sumbawa, home to Mount Tambora crater, site of the largest eruption in modern history. East of Komodo is Solor Alor, a chain of 95 islands with over 70 dive sites in an area boasting 1,200 species of coral reef fish and 500 species of colourful coral.

Whale sharks are an attraction

Come winter, Raja Ampat in West Papua province is among the most popular destinations. The ‘Amazon of the Sea’ is widely recognised as one of the world’s top dive locations, with the most biodiverse marine life.

Guests can also head southeast to Kaimana and Triton Bay for more exceptional diving, including with whale sharks, then west to Maluku province and the Banda Islands, where the renowned ‘Spice Islands’ offer great underwater life but also great insight into the country’s history of trade and its colonial era.

Kayaking is a nice way to explore coastlines and reach islands

“Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat/West Papua are considered the most spectacular dive and snorkel locations on earth,” Yessi says. “In either of these world-renowned venues, the kaleidoscope of colours found in both the soft and hard coral and schools of fish is incomparable.”

Land activities are also diverse and can include paddling or kayaking around coastlines featuring macaque monkeys and flying foxes, exploring tropical rainforests, birdwatching and hikes up mountains and volcanoes.

Beach picnics can be arranged

Coral Triangle Safaris can also arrange cultural experiences with village communities, as well as picnics and romantic dinners on a beach. It all depends on what guests want to do.

“Guests can customise their daily schedule and there are multiple activities for all to enjoy both above and below the water line,” Yessi continues.

Land activities can include cultural visits to local villages

“The coral reefs in these multi-million-hectare national parks are the main attraction but island cultural visits, exploring islands by speedboat, and sampling some of the world’s finest cuisine also rank highly.”

GOOD TASTE

The meals prepared by Sequoia’s chef are of the highest order and typically involve the sourcing of fresh, local ingredients, many of which are found in the surrounding seas.

Cooking classes are popular

The cuisine is matched by the settings. Just imagine dining alfresco on the sky deck and enjoying otak-otak (ground fish with spices in banana leaf) as a starter and prawn sambal for mains. It’s as good as it sounds.

Like everything on the charter, the menu is designed around guests, with all diets catered for. Furthermore, Sequoia’s all-inclusive rate includes wine and spirits, with an additional wine cellar stocked with vintages from the Napa Valley and Burgundy.

Food can be enjoyed on or off the boat

“The culinary experience aboard Sequoia is unmatched and a critical aspect of our success. Our guests have dined in the best restaurants in the world, so the bar is high,” Yessi says.

“We’ve invested heavily in this aspect, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, employing five-star chefs and using the finest ingredients available. Our menu is crafted with some of the leading chefs in Indonesia. The availability of unique ingredients, particularly fish and spices, means Sequoia offers a perfect venue to create world-class dishes.”

Sequoia is all about family time

All in all, Sequoia allows guests to do as little or as much as they want, with the emphasis on spending quality time together, whether it’s on the yacht, in a kayak, on a beach, in the water or up a mountain.

“As we offer highly customised ‘sea safaris’, we first understand what the guests hope to experience, then adjust our staff, itinerary and activities,” Yessi says.

A movie under the stars is one of Sequoia’s signature attractions

“Ultimately, our greatest achievement is bringing families together to enjoy brilliantly coloured reefs and fish, seascapes of unimaginable beauty, exotic dishes and a cinema under the stars.”

www.camperandnicholsons.com

Note: The original article appears in YACHT STYLE Issue 67

Exploring Croatia on the 48m superyacht Freedom (Pt 2)

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Exploring Croatia on the 48m superyacht Freedom (Pt 2)

August 23, 2022
11:33 pm

In the conclusion of a two-part article, Yacht Style explores Croatia on the 48m Freedom operated by Goolets, which offers the 11-cabin superyacht packed with toys from €100,000 per week.
Words: John Higginson
Photos: Goolets

SUNNY PLAYGROUND

Aft, the jacuzzi is a guest favourite

The sun deck is Freedom’s winning card, an adult’s playground with world-beating views. The raised jacuzzi at the aft end is a firm favourite, especially since being surrounded by sunpads following the refit.

Otherwise, the deck is dominated by a remarkably long U-shaped arrangement of sofas, with space for up to 20 people to sit within reach of one of four coffee tables along the centre line. To port is the staircase from the upper deck, two sun loungers and a hanging chair, while to starboard is another hanging chair and six sun loungers.

Just some of the seating on the sun deck

All the seats and sun loungers have a forward view of a well-stocked bar, which can become a social hub before dinner and even livelier afterwards when the two huge speakers come into play.

There’s more fun up ahead. The air-conditioned gym offers sea views forward and to both sides, and a good range of equipment including a treadmill, exercise bike and rowing machine, as well as free weights and more.

The sun deck has an air-conditioned gym

In front of the gym is the pool, which is about 5m wide and has a forward-facing bench seat inside and a feature ‘tap’ to port. Even with 20 or so guests on this deck alone, there’s enough space and activities for people to have as much or as little company as they want.

The 5m-wide pool is at the forward end

Furthermore, the layout is flexible enough to have a ‘zen’ theme as a health and wellbeing area for yoga, fitness and smoothies, or as a lively entertainment venue for sunbathing, swimming, music and cocktails. In fact, Freedom even has a fifth level, with a large roof deck above accessible by ladder and used to carry the two tenders (4.8m and 6m) and two jetskis, which can be deployed by a crane.

That’s not all. The full menu of water toys includes an electric foil board, motorised surfboard, Seabob, several paddleboards, kayak, wakeboard, waterskis, inflatables and huge waterslide. And thanks to the amazing crew, you’ll find many of these in the water before you even dive off the back of Freedom after anchoring.

ISLAND ATTRACTIONS

Goolets’ wide range of seven-day itineraries for Freedom or their other CA yachts include starting and finishing in Split, and a one-way route from Split to Dubrovnik. This year it even has two-week and three-week charter bookings for groups wanting more of Freedom and Croatia.

Aerial view of the island of Brac

A typical week-long round trip can include the islands of Brac, Vis, Hvar, Korcula and Pelješac, then stop at different parts of Hvar and Brac on the way back to Split or even nearby Trogir, just a half-hour drive away.

A Split-Dubrovnik route could also take in Brac, Hvar and Korcula before continuing to the likes of Mljet and Lopud on the way to Dubrovnik, about 112nm southeast of Split.

The 48m Freedom berths in Bol on Brac

Brac is typically a first stop as it’s just 10nm south of Split and well worth a visit for Zlatni Rat, billed as Croatia’s most famous beach and otherwise known as the Golden Horn or Golden Cape.

Dock in the southern harbour town of Bol and it’s a 15-minute walk along a tree-covered promenade beside some exclusive homes to this iconic beach, a stunning spit of land that offers clear water on both sides and plenty of space for sunbathing, bars and restaurants. Other spots in Brac include the pretty fishing village of Milna in a protected harbour on the west coast.

On Brac, Zlatni Rat is Croatia’s most famous beach

Hvar is just south of Brac and its attractions include the quaint town of Jelsa on the north, but the island is most famous for the port town of Hvar on the west.

One of the most popular destinations for day trips from Split and busy during the summer, Hvar has an historic ‘old town’ and many visitors enjoy a walk up to the 16th-century Spanish Fortress for great views of the city.

Hvar is one of Croatia’s most famous islands

It also has a beautiful waterfront packed with shops, restaurants and bars, while there are beach clubs and swimming spots within walking distance. Just off Hvar town are the Pakleni Islands, a chain of wooded islands where you can enjoy wonderful beaches or anchor in the bays to enjoy watersports in clear, protected waters.

Vis is the small island southwest of Hvar where they shot the 2018 hit Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, with Goolets staff saying Pierce Brosnan enjoyed it so much that he never wanted to leave. Nearby attractions include the Blue Cave to the west and Green Cave to the south.

The Mamma Mia sequel was shot in Vis

Yachts typically berth at the town of Vis in a beautiful, protected bay in the northeast, and there’s an air of ‘time stands still’ in this postcard-perfect coastal town. On our penultimate day, we anchored just off Vis town for a fantastic few hours of swimming and trying to use every water toy on board Freedom.

Yachts can also visit the western port town of Komiza, where the Jastoreza restaurant doubled as the ‘Greek Taverna’ in the Mamma Mia sequel.

Korcula is home to a stunning historic fortified town

Korcula is the island south of Hvar and home to Korcula, a stunning historic fortified town described by Goolets as ‘one of the most breathtakingly beautiful towns imaginable’. Known as the birthplace of Marco Polo, it has themed shops and a museum in his honour, and offers another mesmerising on-land experience.

GOOLETS, THE SUPER HOST

These are just four of the Dalmatian islands and the options are almost endless. Goolets’ existing routes are all proven winners, but the company can tailor an itinerary for each charter, which also includes booking all restaurants and on-land activities, sometimes months in advance.

Freedom is packed with water toys

“In the last couple of years, Goolets has made an extra effort to integrate itself into the local communities and become close with all the service providers on all the islands and cities we visit,” says Ivan Ramljak, Goolets’ Country Manager for Croatia.

“We know the owners of the restaurants and the wineries, even the fishermen, so we go the extra mile to create a special occasion for the client.

Dubrovnik is a nice place to finish a charter

“Sometimes a special meal for 35 people can be a two-month process to prepare the food, the tables and set-up, the music. We must consider the weather to know if it should be indoors or outdoors, or if it’s right season for the seafood. The clients appreciate this care and so do the restaurants.”

For each trip aboard Freedom, Goolets offers guests a private ‘concierge assistant’ who prepares daily suggestions on how to maximise the charter experience based around the structure of each group, whether it be families with young children, teenagers, active seniors, couples only, or mixed groups of all ages, which you’re likely to have in a group of 20 or so.

Freedom guests walk around Vis

It’s an exciting time for Goolets, whose name is a ‘Google’-inspired twist on gulets, the classic wooden Turkish sailing craft, an equivalent of Indonesia’s phinisis.

The company started 17 years ago by focusing on gulets and chartering them in Turkey and later in Italy, Greece and Croatia, which has now become its leading market.

Sunbathing on the sun deck of Freedom

Goolets still operates many gulets, but has expanded and diversified to include many modern motor yachts in its CA fleet, which now numbers about 20 and ranges in size up to the 52m, 18-cabin Alfa Mario. Business is good overall and this year’s bookings on Goolets yachts in the Med even include a five-week multi-country trip and a nine-week journey through the Greek islands.

However, following its refit, Freedom is the company’s leading light and was quickly booked out for the season, which in Croatia usually runs from April through to October.

Freedom offers multiple ways to relax

Her facilities, cuisine, crew and water toys make Freedom a match for most sub-50m yachts on the charter circuit. And from 2023, she’ll be available to charter from €100,000 per week, so you don’t need the bank account of a rock star, NBA legend or Microsoft founder to afford her.
www.goolets.net

Exploring Croatia on the 48m superyacht Freedom (Pt 1)

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Savouring a Croatian superyacht charter on the 48m Freedom (Part 1)

August 18, 2022
4:09 am

Fresh from a refit, the 48m Freedom operated by Goolets offers two full-beam master suites among 11 guest cabins, a jacuzzi, bar, gym and pool on the sun deck, a cinema, sauna and massage room on the lower deck, and water toys galore – all from €100,000 per week.
Words: John Higginson
Photos: Goolets

Goolets manages charters on 48m Croatia-built Freedom

“Michael Jordan. Magic Johnson. Beyonce and Jay-Z,” our driver says. I feel a bit embarrassed to join the list of people he has picked up from Split Airport and driven to a superyacht. “Also, Rod Stewart and Bill Gates are regular visitors.” Okay, I get it.

Situated across from Italy on the east side of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia emerged as a popular hot spot for superyachts at the start of this century. The country’s remarkably clear water is among its main attractions, but what makes the southerly Dalmatia region different to most Mediterranean destinations is the remarkable network of islands that are close to each other and the mainland.

Croatia is renowned for its clear water

This means short, relaxed voyages of just an hour or two between destinations, so more time to enjoy swimming and watersports or exploring historic coastal cities, towns and villages. Its remarkable geography makes Croatia ideal for everything from day trips to three-week charter bookings when you could stay somewhere different every day.

While many of the world’s most famous superyachts have been visiting Croatia for the past two decades, an alternative superyacht market has also evolved, with locally built yachts in the 50m range offering 18 or so cabins.

Freedom’s new-look sun deck

Due to international maritime regulations, such yachts are restricted to chartering in Croatia and can be booked by the cabin, so are effectively ‘cruise yachts’ compared to the giant cruise ships that also ply this remarkable coastline.

However, a new trend has emerged, with a handful of owners converting these large yachts into 11-cabin versions and offering superyacht-like amenities and service, yet at surprisingly affordable prices.

Captain Ivan Rakuljic and Goolets’ Ivan Ramljak

Freedom, among Goolets’ Central Agency charter fleet, is only the third yacht to make this transition and the best according to Captain Ivan Rakuljic, who owns the 158-footer built in the Radez Shipyard on the island of Korcula and launched in 2019.

“I saw the first yachts to make this transition from 18 to 11 cabins, so having seen that it worked commercially, we were able to do more with our redesign and upgrade, and make the experience on Freedom even more luxurious,” says Rakuljic, who also increased the crew from eight to 12.

Just a few of Freedom’s welcoming crew

Freedom is considered the Goolets flagship – if not quite in length, then certainly in quality, offerings and service. And the company works closely with both the yacht and the charter client to provide a unique experience for one week or more for up to 24 guests, ideal for extended family gatherings or a week-long wedding party and everything in-between.

SETTING OFF FROM SPLIT

Ivan Ramljak, Goolets’ Country Manager for Croatia, says the Slovenia-based company founded in 2005 by Mitja and Alenka Mirtic

differs from other charter operators because of its concierge-style service and emphasis on tailor-made journeys and experiences for its clients.

Two long tables seat over 20 guests for indoor dining

“Goolets is involved in every aspect of the charter experience, from the enquiry, to planning the trip, during the trip and afterwards, and this separates us from the competition,” says Split-based Ramljak, who’s also a licensed tour guide. “We’re always available for the client, which means the crew can focus on service, operations and hospitality.”

Split is a great place to start your visit and you could spend an enjoyable day or two in this historic port before or even after your charter.

Split is a common starting point for Goolets trips

Croatia’s largest coastal city and second-biggest overall behind Zagreb, Split is packed with attractions including the iconic Riva promenade along its waterfront. Packed with cafes, restaurants and popup market stalls, the Riva is the centre of waterfront activity and even hosts public events and parades, such as for local hero Goran Ivanisevic following his Wimbledon victory in 2001.

Behind the Riva in the ‘old town’ is the beautifully preserved Diocletian Palace, which was built for the Roman emperor from about 300AD – or over 1,700 years ago. More like a fortress, this four-section rectangular slice of history measures 215m by 180m and is well worth a guided tour.

A water fountain on ‘the Riva’, Split’s iconic waterfront promenade

West of the harbour is the stunning hillside Marjan Forest Park featuring jogging trails, a botanical garden and great views over the city centre. East of the harbour, just 10 minutes’ walk from the Riva, is Bacvice Beach, a protected sandy beach with clear, shallow water that leads around to waterfront restaurants and bars, as well as several more swimming beaches and Marina Zenta.

FEATURES OF FREEDOM

After boarding Freedom in Split, it’s time to look around the fully air-conditioned yacht and find out how they manage to fit in 11 en-suite guest cabins with TVs, as well as a cinema, massage room, sauna, two bars, a gym, jacuzzi and a pool!

One of two master suites among 11 guest cabins

Instead of being home to the saloon as on standard layouts, the main deck includes six guest cabins comprising one full-width master stateroom aft, a VIP suite in the bow and four convertible double/twin cabins. The lower deck includes a double, twin and two triples featuring a double and single bed.

A separate staircase to the lower deck leads to the massage room, the sauna room with large shower, and the huge movie, media and gaming room, which features two rows of sofa-style seating and is great for an intimate evening or a large gathering. A guitar is included.

The massage room (above) and cinema (below) are on the lower deck

The upper deck houses the second master stateroom, a stunning full-beam suite with a curved bathtub in the corner and enormous walk-in dressing room. Forward is the wheelhouse, the domain of Captain Ivan.

The central staircase leads to a hall at the front of the saloon where there’s a piano to continue the musical theme. The long saloon features sofas and coffee tables along the port side of the room, while the starboard side features two long dining tables lined tip to tip and capable of seating two-dozen guests.

The food on Freedom is exceptional

The aft deck offers covered alfresco dining, with two long tables either side of the stairs as well as a full-beam sofa aft, a large but quiet lounging area protected from the sun and the action on the deck above.

The food is top class and there’s an emphasis on fresh local produce, with seafood to the fore as well as plenty of local wines such as Kozlovic Malvazija and Kozlovic Mušcat Momjanski. Our meals included the daily catch, glazed scallops, tuna steak, cuttlefish and mango salad, homemade tortellini stuffed with crab meat, and scampi risotto with saffron and sheep cheese.

Upwards of 20 guests can dine alfresco on the covered aft deck

Other dishes included braised veal leg, beef steak, lamb racks and homemade pasta with braised beef tail. A range of cuisines and options such as vegetarian or gluten-free are available, with all menus catered to the charter clients and arranged in advance.

For more on Freedom, its activities and destinations, read PART 2, coming soon …

www.goolets.net

Note: The full original article appears in ‘Charter’ in YACHT STYLE Issue 66.

Sailing superyachts for charter in Polynesia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Sailing superyachts for charter in Polynesia

August 18, 2022
3:17 am

The 43m Guillemot and 34m Imagine are available for late-summer charters through Camper & Nicholsons.

Guillemot is a Dubois design

The 141ft Vitters sloop Guillemot and the 110ft Imagine by Alloy are both available for late-summer charters in Polynesia through Camper & Nicholsons from €105,000 and US$54,500 per week respectively.

Launched in the Netherlands in 2004, the 43m Guillemot is designed by Dubois Naval Architects, has a striking grey hull and had a complete redesign of her interiors as part of a 2021 refit.

The fold-out swim platform on Guillemot

The soft furnishings were replaced and her new colour scheme is complemented by freshly oiled teak, birchwood and stainless-steel details. The recent refit includes a new cockpit area, updated saloon and refreshed en-suite bathrooms.

The owner’s cabin, split-level and located aft, offers a private study, a separate dressing room and a walk-in closet. With another two doubles and two twins, the yacht can sleep 10 guests.

Guillemot’s saloon

Guillemot is suited for diving and water sports enthusiasts, featuring a dedicated diving and bathing platform as well as a good range of water toys including options for younger guests.

The tender, a Smuggler Strata 650, boasts a large canopy, freshwater shower, ski pole and Bluetooth stereo. Captain Mark Welch heads the crew, which includes a distinguished chef versed in preparing fine vegan and vegetarian cuisine.

Imagine was built by New Zealand’s Alloy Yachts

Imagine is also a Dubois design and was launched by Alloy in New Zealand in 1993, with the 34m fully custom build having a refit in 2018. Imagine is currently on her fourth circumnavigation, has completed numerous Atlantic crossings and competed in many regattas.

Refitted to incorporate the latest technology and lifestyle amenities, Imagine has new generators, rigging, mast and sails, among other equipment designed to ensure a safe sailing experience, also offering a superb selection of water toys.

Imagine’s well-lit saloon

Imagine is ideal for family charters or groups of friends, with a full-beam master cabin with an adjoining ‘kid’s corner’ for two smaller sailors, another double cabin, and one triple cabin consisting of three single berths. All cabins are air-conditioned and feature en-suite shower-rooms.

Decorated in neutral tones with light oak and with luxurious upholstery, Imagine has well-appointed living areas with plenty of natural light. The main saloon is divided into three areas: a cosy lounge with sofas, an interior dining space and the navigation station where the charter plans can be studied alongside the Captain.

Sailing, superyachts, Guillemot, Imagine, charter, Polynesia, Camper & Nicholsons, Alloy, Vitters, New Zealand, Netherlands, Dutch, Mark Welch

Imagine has accommodation for seven adults

On deck, which is finished in a blonde teak, Imagine’s spacious cockpit with twin helm stations has plenty of seating and a lounging area.

To the rear of the helm, alfresco drinks and dining can be enjoyed at the two tables, surrounded by U-shaped cushioned seating. A large awning can be erected in minutes when not sailing to ensure meal times are shaded and comfortable. In the evenings, a cinema screen can be set up on deck for movies under the stars with friends and family. www.camperandnicholsons.com

Lana Joins Charter Giants at Imperial

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Lana Joins Charter Giants at Imperial

September 8, 2020
6:12 pm

The 107m Lana is available for charter through Imperial, which now manages two of the world’s largest charter yachts.

Longer than the Wembley Stadium football pitch, the 351ft Lana features a slender profile with straight lines that softly curve downwards at the stern

The super elite have another 100m-plus superyacht to consider for a safe, secluded holiday at sea following the recent addition of the brand-new 107m Lana to Imperial’s central agency charter fleet.

Imperial also manages the 136m Flying Fox, the world’s biggest charter yacht, and used its experience in handling owners, builders, crew and charter guests of enormous builds to transform Lana from newly delivered to charter ready in three weeks, an impressive achievement considering the scale of the streamline 3,900GT beauty with a 50ft beam.

Lana is served by a 14m limo tender and 9m sports tender, while toys include jetskis, Seabobs, paddleboards and dive gear

“It was an exciting yet challenging project, and there were plenty of sleepless nights and long hours,” says Julia Stewart, Director of Imperial, praising the dedication of her team and the 30-plus crew of Lana. “However, the result is absolutely worth it. Lana is the epitome of class.”

One of three 100m-plus superyachts built concurrently at the Benetti shipyard in Livorno in recent years, Lana can carry up to 12 guests and is currently available for charter in the west Mediterranean from €1.7 million (US$2 million) per week.

Breakfast is served on the aft deck of the wheelhouse deck; Lana’s galley brigade is headed by three chefs with experience of fine dining from around the world

This winter, she could potentially venture to Asia via the Indian Ocean, “where we’re able to tailor the perfect itinerary”, Stewart says.

Imperial, which was also the owner’s representative and build supervisor, has carved out its niche among the world’s leading brokerage houses over the past decade, with the Monaco-based company citing its eye for detail, first-class crew and 24/7 support among reasons for its growing list of loyal clients, which also includes owners of 106m and 82m superyachts.

The large swim platform leads to the vast beach club

“The past decade has prepared us for projects this big and beyond. Every vessel and shipyard we work with is always different, which makes it interesting, while managing Flying Fox has raised our standards and broadened our knowledge and experience,” Stewart says.

“Lana now ranks among the largest superyachts available and already offers the highest levels of comfort, safety, service and security.”

SLEEK, SPORTY YET SPACIOUS
It seems unlikely when you see her sleek, horizontal lines, but Lana has remarkable 2.7m-high ceilings throughout most guest areas, creating a feeling of enormous space or, as Stewart puts it, “an airy and grand feeling”.

The vast beach club spans the width of the yacht and makes the most of the drop-down sides

Typical features for a yacht of this size include a forward touch-and go helipad, while highlights for guests include the stunning 120sqm (1,300sqft) beach club and the sun deck featuring an incredible sound system and a gorgeous 8m-long outdoor pool with its own heating system.

The interior of the 12m-wide beach club is accessed through two sliding doors and includes a gym, two saloons with TVs, as well as folding balconies on both sides. Further forward is the spa, which features a Hammam, a dry massage room with a Gharieni massage bed, and a dedicated spa manager to ensure each guest is advised of the most suitable treatments.

The spa on the lower deck features a Hammam (above), a dry massage room with a Gharieni bed, and a dedicated spa manager

“The beach club is probably one of the best features on-board,” Stewart says. “It’s flooded with light and features plush furniture to create a relaxing environment, while the spa offers a serene experience.”

The lower deck also houses a 14m limo tender and 9m sports tender by Italy’s Wooden Boats plus an extensive list of toys including Yamaha and Sea-Doo jetskis, Seabobs, paddleboards and dive gear.

The 8m-long swimming pool on the sun deck has its own heating system

The yacht’s experienced Divemaster can organise dives for all levels, from experienced adults to children.

“Lana hosts some of the most talented crew in the industry with a long list of skills,” Stewart says. “For those looking for adventure, there are brilliant watersports instructors and a Divemaster. If guests want to relax, there’s a yoga instructor, spa manager and a team offering a full range of soothing treatments.”

The sun-deck pool is surrounded by teak decking and sunpads

The highlight of the sun deck is the raised, heated swimming pool, elegantly ringed by teak and surrounded by sunbathing pads, while aft is a covered 16-seat table for al fresco dining.

The sun deck is ideal for a pool party as there’s a great CAT (California Audio Technology) system including eight speakers, two subwoofers and amplifiers. There’s even a viewing deck above with sofas, sunpads and bright-red cushions.

The viewing deck above the sun deck

INDOOR ATTRACTIONS
The AV sensations continue indoors, where the main-deck saloon features an 88-inch Samsung 4K QLED TV along with a state-of-the art sound system engineered by US-based James Loudspeaker that features six eight-inch speakers, a central speaker and a 12-inch Sunfire Subwoofer. Forward of the saloon is a full-beam formal dining area with an enormous table for up to 20 guests.

A grand piano is among the highlights of the sky lounge on the wheelhouse deck, while other indoor attractions include a spectacular work of art by Italy’s Luce 5, which features two twisting ‘ribbons’ that start in the foyer as legs for a crystal table and rise in the middle of the curved staircase all the way to the ceiling in the deck above.

Like most guest areas, the main-deck saloon features 2.7m-high ceilings, while other features include an 88-inch Samsung 4K QLED TV and James Loudspeaker sound system

“Lana is a unique superyacht with incredibly bespoke exterior and interior spaces, with many ‘on-land’ features rarely seen on a yacht,” Stewart says.

Another unusual feature is on the exterior aft decks, where a large coffee table features a central bioethanol fireplace to provide an ideal way to end the day and start the evening, unwinding with a drink in hand for a fireside chat.

Forward of the saloon is the full-beam dining room and the foyer, where the ‘chandelier’ features 9m-long twisting ribbons that span two decks

When it’s dinner – or breakfast or lunch – guests are in for a treat, as the galley brigade has three experienced chefs who have worked at famous restaurants ashore. The team can customise a menu for any palette and even host themed dinners, while Asia-based clients can be reassured that their tastes will be catered to, wherever they charter the yacht.

“Above all, chartering a superyacht like Lana is about experiences and gastronomy is one of the most important aspects on the journey, so the chefs are able to adapt the menu according to the tastes and requirements of each guest,” Stewart says.

“Japanese, Thai and Chinese are some of our guests’ favourite cuisines onboard, while our chefs are also experts in cooking Mediterranean food from Greek to French, as well as Peruvian and fusion.”

Like the saloon, the 750sqft soundproof cinema on the wheelhouse deck also has an 88-inch 4K QLED TV, but with a Sonus Faber Olympica sound system

Before turning in after a big meal, it’s worth finding time for a late-night movie as the 70sqm cinema on the wheelhouse deck is one of the yacht’s signature features. This enormous soundproof room includes another 88in 4K QLED TV, a state-of-the-art entertainment system and Sonus Faber Olympica sound system.

Further along the wheelhouse deck is the secluded full-beam owner’s suite, a 110sqm ‘apartment’ with a huge bathroom and his and hers walk-in closets, creating what Stewart describes as a “luxurious retreat” or “haven at sea”, a level above the seven VIP suites on the main deck.

The full-beam owner’s suite on the wheelhouse deck is the pick of the accommodation

It’s worth reiterating that all eight guest cabins have a ceiling height of 2.7m, among the highest you’ll find on any charter yacht and offering a true feeling of space and luxury for each guest.

Powered by a diesel electric propulsion system, Lana is also able to travel great distances at a decent clip, with a top speed of 18.5 knots, a cruising speed of 16 and a 5,500nm range at 12 knots. And she’s quickly proving a strong addition to Imperial’s CA charter fleet which grows more impressive by the year.

All seven VIP suites on the main deck also feature 2.7m-high ceilings

“Our fleet stands out on the charter market because of our expertise and principles,” Stewart says, “and Lana is the highest calibre of superyacht in her range.”

www.imperial-yachts.com

For charter enquiries, contact Julia Stewart, Director, Imperial:

j.stewart@imperial-yachts.com; +377 9798-3880

Singapore Offers Convenience and Opportunities: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Singapore Offers Convenience and Opportunities: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

August 24, 2020
12:49 am

Singapore’s home-grown destinations are not spectacular but they’re convenient, while the city is a good starting point for longer charters into Malaysia and Indonesia.

Boating in Singapore tentatively re-emerged in Singapore in June after a couple of months of lockdown that put the charter market on hold. And although the city’s local cruising destinations are limited, they’re close enough and good enough for a fun day out.

Yachts gather at Singapore’s Lazarus Island before the Covid-19 onset this year, showing what could again be a familiar sight in the coming months as restrictions are gradually lifted; Photo: Wade Pearce / Next Wave Consulting

On the plus side, Singapore has a huge number of charter yachts available from numerous yachting companies including ONE15 Luxury Yachting, based at ONE ̊15 Marina Sentosa Cove.

The charter company has a menu of over 40 yachts ranging from 33ft sailing monohulls and 36ft cabin cruisers to the Azimut 116 Hye Seas and the hugely popular Eagle Wings, a Sunreef Supreme 68 sailing cat that can take up to 50 guests in the day. Most include non- motorised water toys like kayaks, paddleboards and water mats, while the likes of jetskis can be rented.

Catamarans make up about 60 per cent of the fleet and include the Lagoon 45 Ocean Diva, a new addition that can accommodate up to 27 guests for day trips – and is pet friendly. Other newcomers include a Beneteau Oceanis 37 sailing yacht, Epicurean, and a Bayliner 335, Epic Ocean, which can host up to eight and 10 guests in the day respectively.

As an indication, a group of 10 can book a four-hour charter on a 33ft monohull from US$500++ or on Eagle Wings from about US$2,500++, although these prices don’t include F&B, which can be ordered from the marina’s Latitude Bistro.

The 68ft Eagle Wings is one of Asia’s busiest charter yachts; Lazarus is a good base for day trips

Main destinations for day trips, which can range from just two hours to eight hours, are the Southern islands just south of Sentosa, including St John’s and Lazarus, which has a beach and its own pier.

“Lazarus is a lesser-known island with a relatively secluded and quiet beach, so it’s popular with those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life,” says Sylvia Ng, Senior Manager, ONE15 Luxury Yachting.

For those who want to get out of Singapore for a few days or more, charter trips can include heading north along Peninsular Malaysia’s east coast to the islands of Tioman and Aur, which is both a Marine Park and National Park. Both islands can be included in a four-day itinerary.

“Pulau Tioman and Pulau Aur are great for scuba diving and snorkelling because of their abundant marine life and pristine waters, while the islands themselves are gorgeous, fringed with tropical rainforests,” Ng says.

Indonesia’s Anambas Islands, about 150nm northeast of Singapore, feature picture-perfect beaches complete with swaying coconut trees, white sand and beautiful clear blue lagoons, and need six or seven days.

“Anambas is an upcoming destination,” Ng says. “Despite its beauty, it’s still pretty much undiscovered so the best time to visit is now, before it becomes better known.”

www.one15luxuryyachting.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.

Upgraded Lady Azul Offers Charter Adventure and Excitement Across Asia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Upgraded Lady Azul Offers Charter Adventure and Excitement Across Asia

August 20, 2020
1:06 pm

The 129ft Lady Azul is enjoying a fresh lease of life as one of Southeast Asia’s most fun and adventurous charter superyachts.

After several charters from Phuket since emerging at the end of last year from an extensive refit, the 39.4m Heesen’s new life post Covid-19 includes plans to cruise up and down the Andaman Sea this winter.

Built by Dutch superyacht yard Heesen, the 39.4m Lady Azul has enjoyed a strong start to her new charter life following an extensive refit in Langkawi

Malaysia-based Gerry Ross has been Captain of the four-deck, five-cabin superyacht since 2015 and overseen two major refits including last year in Langkawi, his home for the past decade.

The blue-hulled Lady Azul appears to inspire loyalty, not only among Captain and crew but also charter guests, who make the most of a yacht now fully equipped for diving and packed with new toys including a 15m inflatable netted lap pool.

Trips since the refit include a first charter into Myanmar after an active family – who had used the yacht a year previously – booked her again after confirming the Captain and key crew were still aboard.

Fun is the name of the game on Lady Azul, which is geared up for isolation and exploration

“The Mergui Archipelago is stunning. The beaches and the islands are something else,” says the New Zealander, who first came to Asia on the 26m Azimut Verena V, the smallest yacht he has captained. “Another attraction is that you basically have the whole place to yourself.”

DIVING WITH ELEPHANTS AND TRAINS

As well as visiting Myanmar for the first time, the guests – including several keen scuba divers – also cruised in Thailand during the 10-day charter. Ross ensured they had some underwater experiences they’ll never forget as they made the most of the yacht’s new brand-new dive gear, including eight tanks and a dive compressor.

Off Koh Racha Yai, south of Phuket, Ross led the clients on 18-20m dives to see 3m-high concrete elephants and giant statues plus a huge network of concrete cubes, all placed on the seabed after the 2004 tsunami to attract divers. The charter guests also dived boat wrecks and even sat on a motorbike still standing upright on the seabed.

Charter guests have dived with submerged trains, concrete elephants and a motorbike

That was just a taste of things to come, as further down the coast they visited Koh Waen, southeast of Koh Lanta Yai, where they swam through a series of open train carriages that had shifted off their train tracks!

“The guests loved it. In Asia, we’re in a place where it’s a lot more adventurous. There’s a lot more to do than if you were chartering in Europe, where sometimes guests are more interested in being seen in a marina,” Ross says. “I find that Lady Azul is the perfect size for Asia. We can get close enough to beaches so you can swim there or get near dive spots.”

DUTCH PEDIGREE

Lady Azul, originally commissioned for a Malaysian and launched by Heesen in 2001, has benefited from enormous investment from its new owner, who bought the yacht in April 2019 and used it for a couple of months before embarking on an extensive technical, interior and exterior refit in Langkawi.

Looking immaculate after the refit, the enormous saloon has comfortable sofas and chairs to port, great views, and leads forward to the dining area and guest cabins

The yacht feels immaculate when you’re on board, with the woodwork, flooring, ceilings, lighting, furniture and soft furnishings all looking as pristine as on a new build.

It also feels immensely comfortable inside and out. The main saloon is bright, with comfortable white sofas and lots of space on starboard side to walk past the centrepiece to the formal dining area, overlooked by a colourful painting of a phoenix.

The upper deck also has a saloon, with a large corner sofa, chairs, big TV, card table and a corner bar, which also serves the aft deck, where a long table comfortably seats 10 and offers great sea views. As the yacht’s most popular place for meals, it can be used for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and has cosy lounging areas on both sides.

The formal dining area on the main deck can comfortably seat 10 for meals and offers great views through the large windows

The sun deck offers even more panoramic views and has several intimate seating, dining, lounging and socialising areas including a large aft-facing sunpad, a nice place to hang out for drinks before or after dinner.

As for who’s sleeping where, Lady Azul has a huge master suite forward on the main deck. Space has been given priority in a beautifully designed room with a forward-facing bed that enjoys light and 270-degree views, a forward TV, portside desk and an enormous marble bathroom with his and her sinks, shower and portside bathtub.

The stunning master suite on the main deck has seating and a desk on both sides

The four lower-deck guest cabins are also hugely comfortable and light, with full-beam VIP cabins fore and aft of two surprisingly large twins, all with large windows, good natural light and elegant en-suites.

TOYS GALORE

However, this is a boat to be enjoyed outdoors and is packed with toys galore since the refit. As well as the diving equipment, new gear includes a 5.5m Williams Dieseljet Tender, two bright-orange Seabobs, two inflatable kayaks, two paddleboards and snorkelling gear.

However, the real party piece is the custom-made FunAir lap pool, which provides a safe, netted area to swim and play around in – no jellyfish here – as well as sitting and sunbathing areas around all four sides.

Lady Azul is ideal for charter by families and groups, with a new 15m inflatable netted lap pool and plenty of water toys and activities

In fact, the far end of the 5m-beam pool is long and wide enough for two people to enjoy floating yoga while taking in views of the skies and sea.

The pool connects to the refurbished beach club, which is a hub of any active charter trip, providing a large area by the sea for sitting and relaxing, launching water activities or showering outdoors when you’ve finished.

The air-conditioned gym has a great sea view

It also has an upgraded ‘garage’ behind sliding glass doors that now also houses an air-conditioned gym with four machines, weights and yoga mats, plus a TV and WiFi. Working out on an elliptical or rowing machine is a lot more fun when you’ve got a view of the sea that you can dive into after you’ve finished.

Matthew Gusman, the yacht’s representative, is delighted with the new-look Lady Azul, which had full exterior paint work and a huge range of technical upgrades including new air-conditioning, frequency converter, AV systems and navigational equipment.

Guests can enjoy inflatables towed by the new 5.5m Williams tender

“The owner has invested a lot to ensure the yacht is of the standard he expects. The upgraded navigation system is particularly important as the boat is now exploring less-documented places off the beaten track, which is exciting for charter clients,” says Gusman, who also reveals the owners’ concerns for the environment.

“They were shocked with the amount of plastic they saw on beaches and decided they weren’t going to contribute to that. They installed new water-makers and a water-filtration system, so now you can drink out of any tap on the boat.”

INTERNATIONAL APPEAL

Crew play a key role in any charter holiday and Lady Azul benefits from an experienced, multicultural seven-strong team. Malaysians Farid Mohd Isa (First Officer), Izuan Bin Hasan (Deckhand) and Amira Binti Ahmad (Stewardess) have worked with Ross on Lady Azul for several years, while Pole Greg Biskup (Chief Engineer) and Filipina Irish Teves (Chief Stewardess) joined in the past year.

The aft decks are the the most popular places for drinks and meals

And although Ross may be boss, the most important crew member for many guests is the one rarely seen – the chef. Born and raised in Phuket, Nobphadon ‘Ko’ Hiranchai has spent three decades in the catering and hotel industry, and joined Lady Azul after spending six years working on the 56m Lady D.

This master of the kitchen can cook practically any cuisine, essential considering the yacht’s international clientele, and specialises in vegan menus. He even bakes fresh bread every day, also hand-making his own bases when pizzas are the order of the day.

“I’ve been working in kitchens for three decades, so I can cook anything – Thai, Chinese, Malaysian, sushi, other Asian, Italian, European, Western, Mexican,” says Ko, who has worked at some of Phuket’s leading resorts and hotels.

Lady Azul is renowned for its cuisine thanks to an experienced superyacht chef

“If guests want Thai food, I can cook different Thai dishes every day for a week. If they only want seafood or want a healthy menu, I can do it. Once I know what the guests like and need, I take care of everything.”

BRAVE NEW ERA

Considering the strong reputation of the crew and the yacht, Gusman is confident of Lady Azul’s charter appeal, both for clients based in and outside Asia.

“Lady Azul has been blessed to have key members of the crew stay with the boat, starting with Captain Gerry. It’s good for the boat and the charter guests, and the whole team have had rave reviews from all our clients,” Gusman says.

Double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are ideal for guests to explore Southeast Asia’s stunning islands and beaches

“Many of our target clients are used to a certain level of service when chartering in the Med or Caribbean, and we now offer that level of service and comfort on a Dutch-pedigree yacht in Southeast Asia.”

Likely to operate between northern Malaysia, Thailand and Myanmar from about November through March or April for the coming season, the plans for the rest of next year remain more flexible.

Singapore, Malaysia’s east coast and the Anambas Islands are among potential destinations, along with Sumatra, Komodo and Raja Ampat in Indonesia, the Philippines and even the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

“People can now enjoy a high level of service and luxury in places they haven’t been before on a North European-built superyacht, such as the Mergui, Anambas, Raja Ampat, Bali, Komodo,” Gusman says. “The target is charters off the beaten track, for the adventurer in the family or the adventurous family.”

www.ladyazul.com

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

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.

Vietyacht, Tam Son Yachting Pioneering Charter Activity in Vietnam:’ Charter Issue’ 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

VIETYACHT, TAM SON YACHTING

August 17, 2020
12:38 am

Vietyacht is pioneering luxury charters in Vietnam by offering a strong fleet of Jeanneau motoryachts to explore Halong Bay and other island groups in the north.

Vietnam’s Halong Bay is almost 1,700km northeast of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay, yet in some ways they’re sister environments, featuring stunning limestone karsts, islands, caves and beaches, and toured by millions of visitors each year.

With almost 2,000 islands and islets, Halong Bay is the big sister and spans about 1,500sqkm, making it almost four times the size of Phang Nga Bay. And although the vast majority of its visitors tour around on large junks and cruise ships, there’s plenty of room for private yachts to explore the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site – even the 321ft German-built megayacht Aviva was among visitors last year.

Targeting Halong Bay, Vietyacht has armed itself with 10 Jeanneau motor yachts to both serve and develop the luxury charter industry in a country where pleasure boating is still in its infancy, yet promises much due to stunning cruising grounds, growing domestic wealth and dynamic new industry players.

Nguyen Duc Thuan, who founded Vietyacht in 2017 and its charter arm VietyachtClub a year later, is convinced of the yachting potential in Halong Bay as well as its quieter neighbours, Lan Ha Bay to the south and Bai Tu Long Bay to the east, all about 100km from the Chinese border.

“We believe this is the best yachting destination in the world,” says Nguyen, who also thinks the Covid-19 pandemic will increase the appeal of private yachts. “Yacht charter in Vietnam is quite a new business, but the situation this year is changing people’s behaviour.The need for social distancing means more people will choose to charter yachts to avoid crowds.”

VietyachtClub’s fleet of 10 Jeanneau powerboats (above) is driving the luxury yacht charter market in Halong Bay (below), a World Heritage Site

Berthing in Tuan Chau Marina, VietyachtClub’s fleet of Jeanneau powerboats currently comprises a Leader 36, two Leader 40s, a Leader 46, three NC 14s, two Merry Fisher 1095s (one with flybridge) and a Velasco 43F.

About 90 per cent of VietyachtClub’s bookings are for six-hour day charters and typical client requests include onboard dining, a good music system, and water toys like Seabobs, jetskis, paddleboards and kayaks.

The company offers specially themed trips for weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries and Valentine’s Day, as well as a specially priced wedding photo tour, while charter rates are reduced 30 per cent for the low season in summer.

As well as Jeanneau, Vietyacht is also the dealer for Prestige motor yachts and Fountaine Pajot catamarans. With its head office and showroom in Ha Long City – a two-hour drive east of Hanoi – and further sales offices along the coast, Nguyen believes the company is in a prime position to capitalise on yachting’s potential growth.

“Chartering will grow as it’s a different experience that people are interested to try,” says Nguyen. “It offers both freedom and privacy, but most of all it’s just a lot of fun. And once people try it, they keep coming back.”

A Jeanneau Leader 36 finds a quiet spot in Halong Bay, which covers an area of 1,500sqkm so provides plenty of space for relaxation and photo opportunities

SOUTH FOR SAIGON RIVER CHARTERS
Tam Son Yachting, also founded in 2017, is another major player in Vietnam’s yachting industry, but is based in the south in Ho Chi Minh, the country’s most populous city.

Representing Monte Carlo Yachts, Lagoon, Beneteau and Zodiac Nautic, Tam Son Yachting is an offshoot of the powerful Openasia Group, which was established in 1994 and is a distributor for luxury goods brands like Audi, Hugo Boss, Chopard, Hermes and Patek Philippe.

The company is preparing to enter the charter industry with a Lagoon 630 MY powercat, KN Paradise, and a Beneteau Gran Turismo 40, Carla, starting with day trips along the Saigon The company is also in the process of expanding its charter fleet with other yachts in the city.

With a wealth of experience and expertise behind it, the company is aiming to create an entire yachting ‘ecosystem’ including sales, after-sales, management, charter, yacht registration, crew management, financial services, a Yacht Service Centre and marinas.

In Ho Chi Minh City, Tam Son Yachting is chartering a Lagoon 630 MY powercat (above) and a Beneteau Gran Turismo 40

The company is the operator of the Vinhomes Central Park Marina on Saigon River and the Tam Son Yacht Club at Swanbay Marina on Dai Phuoc Island.

“Tam Son Yachting has a mission to provide our clients with the perfect European yachting experience in a one-stop shop, so we’ve been developing an entire ecosystem with all the professional services required to enjoy yachting,” says Pham Tuan Hai, Head of Sales and Marketing.

“As we realise our vision, the market is opening up and we believe it’s the right time to develop services like charter. We receive charter requests almost daily for personal events such as birthdays, outdoor parties, group meetings, family occasions and official ceremonies.

We’ve also had regular requests for longer charters.” Like Nguyen, Pham believes the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic could make more Vietnamese appreciate the safety and freedom of yachting, with charters offering the ideal way of introducing newcomers to the lifestyle.

“Even this year has been good for our business, as clients and prospects have had more time to look around for new toys and ways to enjoy their life,” Pham said.

“After all, yachting is ideal for sharing time and experiences with family, friends and business partners. We want people to think of yachts as easy to use as a car. If people are not quite ready, then a yacht charter acts like a test drive to see if they enjoy the experience.”

www.vietyacht.vn
www.tamsonyachting.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.

Phuket Options from Asia Marine, The Moorings & Yacht Sourcing: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Phuket Options from Asia Marine, The Moorings & Yacht Sourcing: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

August 11, 2020
1:01 am

Home to a big choice of charter companies offering a wide range of yachts, Phuket is the starting point for Andaman Sea destinations including Phang Nga, Phi Phi, Krabi, the Similans and the Surin Islands, while Myanmar to the north and Malaysia to the south offer cross-border journeys.

The Galeon 460 Mija is one of Asia Marine’s most popular charter yachts, with its drop-down sides creating a large aft social area including a bar to port

Having seen a lot in over three decades of operating in Phuket, Asia Marine is now preparing thoroughly for new-look charter operations post Covid-19, with pleasure boating opening up again in June after three months of on-water lockdown.

Today, Asia Marine has a 10-strong fleet of charter yachts, with recent additions including the Azimut 55 Pillars Spirit and the classic 104ft Camara C, a British-built motor yacht launched in 1961 that’s currently being prepared for its first charter season in Thailand.

Vincent Tabuteau, one of the pioneers of Thailand’s yachting industry, arrived in Phuket in 1983 as a sailing boat skipper and created Asia Marine in 1989, so the Frenchman has lived through a lot of ups and downs including the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

Headquartered in Yacht Haven in the north of the island, Asia Marine has been diligently organising for life in the Covid-19 era, with the company following the WHO (World Health Organisation)
recommendations for all employees and crew.

“Over our 30-plus years of operations, we’ve been through several tourism downturns, and we know how tough it can be for everyone, but we can get through this by staying safe and working together to build confidence in yachting again,” Tabuteau says.

The 95ft Aventure is popular for longer trips including north into Myanmar’s Mergui archipelago

To help protect staff and clients, the company’s new safety standards include deep cleaning each boat after a weekly charter, placing a 24-hour hold between bookings, disinfecting surfaces, utensils and cabins, and providing new amenities for each charter.Masks and safety equipment are provided for staff and prepared for guests. Its overall efforts resulted in an Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) certification by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The six-cabin Camara C is Asia Marine’s most expensive crewed charter, with a weekly rate from about US$50,000 in the summer and US$55,000 in the winter, which runs from November through April.

The company’s crewed superyachts include three sailing yachts, comprising the three-cabin Swan 86 Aspiration – with weekly summer rates starting from US$20,000 – the 95ft, three-cabin ketch Aventure, a four-cabin Sparkman & Stephens 104 and the 131ft, five-cabin La Numero Uno, the first-ever Perini Navi.

Aventure’s rich wood interior features three cabins and dining for six

Established itineraries for longer charters include from Phuket south to Langkawi, the Similan Islands northwest of Phuket and further north to Myanmar’s Mergui archipelago, while Indonesia’s Anambas Islands, northeast of Singapore, is an increasingly popular request.

“Yachting has developed a lot in Phuket over the last three decades. Our clients used to be primarily sailors and ‘yachties’, but now we see a wide breadth of different tastes, from smaller yachts to larger luxury yachts,” says Tabuteau, whose company also represents Fraser.

“The superyacht market has developed immensely in recent years, with high net worth individuals demanding the very best from their yachts. Our experience, value, service and reliability are so important and why our charter clients keep coming back.”

Asia Marine also offers weekly bareboat charters, on monohulls and catamarans ranging from 38-47ft, while day charter options range from about US$1,100-$5,500 including fuel (four hours), with models including Pillars Spirit and the popular Galeon 460 Mija.

Nearby Phang Nga Bay, Krabi and the Phi Phi islands are the most requested destinations while the Racha islands to the south are also popular with day trippers, whose requests often focus on toys and sound systems.

Launched in the UK in 1961, the historic 104ft Camara C is currently being prepared for her first winter charter season in Thailand

However, Tabuteau says crew are just as important as the yachts and the cruising grounds. “Some charterers get attached to our crew and often request the same Captain when they come back. A good crew providing professional service makes a huge difference for both day and overnight charters, so clients tend to get attached to a particular yacht,” says Tabuteau, who says some tourists rent the same yacht for a day charter every few days.

With its vastly experienced staff, Asia Marine also specialises in yacht management and is a dealer for Galeon, Bali catamarans and Wellcraft fishing boats in partnership with sister company Asiamarine (see PROFILE), headquartered in Hong Kong.

Tabuteau, though, has a soft spot for charter as it offers a wider range of people experience of one of Asia’s most iconic cruising areas.

“We specialise in private charters, so every client’s experience is tailored to their needs. We can decorate a boat for birthdays, find a quiet romantic nook for honeymoons or set out the perfect itinerary
for those that wish to explore. Once people try it, they come back for more,” he says.

Like Camara C, the Azimut 55 Pillars Spirit is a new addition to Asia Marine’s charter fleet in Thailand and is suitable for both day and overnight charters from Phuket

“It’s so enjoyable to be away from it all at sea, with your loved ones and friends. The experience of sleeping on a yacht is so much more memorable than staying in a villa. Waking up to a sunrise at sea is really special.”

SAILING, POWER CATS FROM GLOBAL OPERATOR
The Moorings, one of the world’s biggest charter companies, has a base in Ao Po Grand Marina in northeast Phuket where it owns Moorings 4000 and 4800 sail catamarans and a 514PC, essentially four-cabin versions of Leopard’s 40, 48 and hugely successful 51PC powercat. Sister company Sunsail offers four Jeanneau sailing monohulls.

Phuket is the Asia base for The Moorings and sister company Sunsail, and has a network of charter bases and clients from around the world

As well as Phuket, The Moorings has a fleet of catamarans and monohulls in more than 20 bases in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, the Americas, Tahiti and Tonga in the South Pacific, and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean. Ikraam Galant, Business Development Manager for Asia, says the company is confident of a strong recovery once international travel resumes.

“We are gearing up for an increase in business post Covid-19. We are seeing a big shift in the travel industry from mainstream tourism to more experiential travel. Instead of travellers visiting crowded cities in large groups, we are seeing people keener on travelling with close friends or loved ones to remote holiday destinations,” he says.

The Moorings has 40ft and 48ft sailing catamarans and a 51ft powercat in its Phuket base at Ao Po, while sister company Sunsail has four sailing monohulls

“We are already seeing an early increase in demand for 2021, whether it be for the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Indian Ocean or Asia-Pacific.”

Phuket, along with the Seychelles, traditionally has a higher percentage of day charters than the other cruising destinations, where a week is the standard charter duration.

Although itineraries are flexible, a sample crewed day charter itinerary includes the private island of Maiton off Phuket’s southwest tip, lunch on board, then Kai Nok further north for more snorkelling and beach activities before returning to Ao Po.

The Moorings also offers a crewed four-day, three-night itinerary that covers Phang Nga Bay, Krabi (Koh Hong, Railay Beach, Chicken Island) and the Phi Phi Islands before returning to Phuket.

“Onboard Wi-Fi, a barbecue and toys like kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and fishing gear are frequent requests of our charter guests,” says Galant, who believes charters are not as expensive as perceived when costs are shared.

“The perception is that a private yacht charter is expensive, but when you split the cost among a group of six to eight friends or family members, the price is equivalent to staying at a resort or on a cruise liner. However, a charter with The Moorings offers a much more.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
Indonesia-founded Yacht Sourcing opened its Thailand operation last year and has an office in Royal Phuket Marina on the east coast where it operates charters under two brands – Explore for day trips and Voyage for overnight and longer charters, typically between four to six nights.

Yacht Sourcing Thailand Operations Manager Sontaya Ruennam and Managing Partner Nicolas Monges

The young company is proud to do things differently and is the charter central agent for the 90ft wooden motor yacht Maha Bhetra, which charters for US$5,000/night and was designed by the late Ed Tuttle, best known for his groundbreaking designs for Aman resorts and villas. Other CAs include the Azimut 80 Mirage and the 95ft Lady Eileen II.

“Many of our repeat clients come back for Maha Bhetra, which is really different to anything else out there,” says Nicolas Monges, Managing Partner of Yacht Sourcing Thailand. “They appreciate the comfort, the service, the food, the cabins, the atmosphere … and the price, too!”

Another 16 listings include Fountaine Pajot sailing cats from US$2,500/night to Sunseeker, Azimut, Riva, Sanlorenzo, Princess and Heesen motor yachts, up to 40m and 50m-plus megayachts, with the Similan and Surin islands to the north and southerly islands like Rok, Muk and Lipe among client favourites.

the 90ft Maha Bhetra designed by the late Ed Tuttle

The Explore day charter listing features over 20 options including small powerboats from US$800 as well as sailing and power catamarans, with Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi, Krabi and Racha the most popular destinations.

However, Monges is trying to offer a range of new experiences and looking into potential tours along Phuket’s popular west coast for those who might want to mix a cruise with cocktails and cuisine on the island.

Tiger Lily, the new Nuova Jolly Prince 38 Sport Cabin, is part of Yacht Sourcing Thailand’s Explore fleet of smaller boats focused on day charters

“We’re creating a lot of charter ideas like wildlife exploration and fishing, and even sunset cruises, bachelor parties and Phuket by night.

These ideas appeal to the younger crowd,” Monges says. “We have requests for weddings or photo shoots, culinary experiences, and tastings for wine, champagne and caviar. We even have Instagram stars who just want the best backgrounds for as many photos as possible! We’re also exploring doing pick-ups from westcoast resorts instead of clients always having to start and finish on the east coast.”

www.asia-marine.net
www.moorings.com
www.yachtsourcing.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.

Simpson Yacht Charter Offering Special Packages Across Asia: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Simpson Yacht Charter Offering Special Packages Across Asia: ‘Charter Issue’ 2020

August 10, 2020
9:27 pm

Simpson Yacht Charter has expanded the size and variety of its CA listings in its Thailand, Hong Kong and Singapore bases, while its large Lagoon 620 sailing cats offer new destinations in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. And it’s a good time to book, as the company is offering special prices and packages in 2020.

In the summer, the Lagoon 620 Jyohana charters around Malaysia’s Tioman Island and Indonesia’s Anambas Islands, both accessible from Singapore

Simpson Yacht Charter (SYC) has expanded its Central Agent (CA) listing of yachts to 16 following several exciting new additions over the past year to its fleets in both Phuket and also Hong Kong, where the company has been busier than ever in the last few months.

SYC offers access to a wider portfolio of over 250 yachts across the world, which represents about a 40 per cent growth from this time last year when Yacht Style published its 2019 Charter Issue.

There has been a similarly significant growth in the company’s CA listing in Asia, which features a wide range of Lagoon sailing catamarans plus motor yachts from Azimut, Beneteau, Sessa and a Sanlorenzo SL106’
that starts from HK$118,000 (US$12,500) for an eight-hour day charter.

Reanna Wang, SYC’s Group Charter Manager, says: “Following a lot of new additions over the past year, our CA yachts now cover an even wider range of sizes, types and destinations.”

EXPLORING SOUTHEAST ASIA
In Phuket, the Lagoon 40 Nauti Buoy delivered in March is a new addition to the CA fleet and joins another Lagoon 40 (K-35), two 42s (P&B, Cloud Dancer) and the popular 52F Blue Moon. Motor yacht options include the Azimut 55E After 8 and the Beneteau Flyer 8.8 Nauti One.

Simpson Yacht Charter’s fleet of Lagoons includes two 620s in Southeast Asia

The four-cabin Lagoon 40s are at the other end of the price range to the 32m Sanlorenzo, starting from as low as US$600/day for a bareboat charter in Phuket’s low season from May to October.

However, the majority of SYC’s bookings in Southeast Asia are for overnight charters, although charter activity in Phuket only started to re-emerge in June after Covid-19 measures quelled yachting activity for the previous three months.

To celebrate a return to the water, SYC is offering special all-inclusive ‘weekend’ and ‘long weekend’ packages on its Lagoon 42 and 52 models, ranging from about US$3,200 (42) and US$4,700 (52) for two days/one night to US$4,600 (42) and US$6,300 (52) for three days/ two nights.

In addition, SYC is giving international clients a firm incentive to plan ahead by offering a 10 per cent discount in 2020 on all Southeast Asia charters booked for this year and next.

The three-cabin Azimut 55E After 8 is based in Phuket

“Before borders completely reopen and air travel becomes common again, we expect more domestic clients seeking short-term city escapes, so we’re encouraging people living in Thailand to book short or long
weekend trips on our Lagoon cats,” Wang says.

“We’re advising international clients to book for later in 2020 and in 2021 with our special discounted rate. Many charter yachts in the Caribbean and the Med will be busy catching up with rescheduled bookings and might not be able to take many new orders, so we’re also expecting some clients to change their charter destination to Southeast Asia.”

Interestingly, SYC’s two Lagoon 620s, Jyohana and Primetime, are available for charter this summer around Tioman Island in southeast Malaysia – about 90nm north of Singapore – and Indonesia’s pristine Anambas Islands to the east.

The company plans to then charter Primetime even further east, in the Philippines, over the winter, while Jyohana heads to Thailand for the peak season, plying destinations between Phuket and Langkawi and beyond.

Reanna Wang (second right) and Simpson Yacht Charter colleagues

As an indication, Primetime’s weekly charter rate is about US$25,000-$28,000 depending on season, while Jyohana is slightly more expensive. And if you’re prepared to travel further afield and spend a little more, SYC also offers a Lagoon Seventy 7 – the French builder’s largest sailing cat – in remote French Polynesia.

HONG KONG, HELICOPTERS AND HOTELS
Amid the gloom of the Covid-19 era, Hong Kong has been a bright spark for SYC, with the city enjoying its biggest-ever charter boom in recent months. The company has also been in a position to capitalise on the population’s demand to escape the crowded city, which didn’t impose any official lockdown.

The jacuzzi on the flybridge of the Sanlorenzo SL106’

SYC’s local CA listings feature Lagoon 42 (2019 model), 440 and 450 sailing yachts, and three new motor yachts: Azimut 54, Sessa 68 and Sanlorenzo SL106’. Hong Kong is traditionally a day charter market, but there has been unprecedented demand for overnight trips.

“We’ve had a lot of special deals and promotions in Hong Kong, which is now a very busy market as people can’t travel but they can go out locally, so our day, weekend and longer overnight charters are in high demand,” Wang says. “We have so many overnight charter enquiries and even a few with short-term lease of weeks or months.”

SYC has been promoting special packages, with the four-cabin Lagoon 42 and 440 available for two-day/one-night charters for up to eight guests for HK$35,000 (US$4,500) and HK$25,000 (US$3,200) respectively, including a Captain but excluding fuel.

The ‘Yacht & Flight Package’ is available with any Hong Kong charter until September 30 and features an 18-minute helicopter ride over Victoria Harbour for an extra HK$2,000 (US$250) per person or HK$10,000 (US$1,300) for a group of six.

A new addition to Simpson Yacht Charter’s CA listing, the Sanlorenzo SL106’ is one of Hong Kong’s biggest charter yachts

And throughout 2020, the ‘Yacht & Hotel Package’ offers a complimentary room for two at the St Regis Hong Kong with any day charter booking on the Lagoon 42 or Alice 90 motor yacht.

“We offer the widest price range and best-value charter products in our main destinations such as Phuket, Hong Kong and Singapore,” Wang says.

“Besides, we have over 250 yachts across the globe we can propose, so whatever clients are looking for, we can find them find suitable options.”

www.simpsonyachtcharter.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.

Asian Heavyweight: Camper & Nicholsons in Asia

Charter / yachtstyle2020

Asian Heavyweight: Camper & Nicholsons in Asia

August 3, 2020
8:13 pm

The 91.5m Tranquility is the new flagship of Camper & Nicholsons’ charter fleet in Asia, where the ‘original yachting company’ now also operates a superyacht in the Philippines along with large motor and sailing yachts across the rest of Southeast Asia and beyond.

Size matters in yachting and Camper & Nicholsons made arguably the biggest move of the past year in the Asian charter market when it became the charter central agent for the 91.5m Tranquility, owned by Genting Malaysia.

Built by Oceanco and launched in 2014, the former Equanimity was in the headlines while in Malaysia early last year and has since begun a new life as a charter yacht, with a weekly rate of €1,100,000 (about US$1,240,000).

One of the world’s biggest charter yachts, the 300ft Tranquility can accommodate up to 18 guests in nine cabins and is served by 31 crew

The 300-footer is looked after by 31 crew and features a Winch Design interior that includes nine cabins for 18 guests, who can enjoy a large pool, two jacuzzis, an outdoor bar, a Perspex-cased piano and immense indoor areas.

Other highlights include a spectacular beach club, which transitions through to a gym where glass doors lead to a starboard sea platform and a spa complete with a sauna, hammam, experiential showers, plunge pool and a massage, hair and beauty salon!

Tranquility is another coup for one of the world’s leading brokerage houses, which was founded in 1782 and has enjoyed a strong presence in Asia since it was acquired by Hong Kong-based conglomerate Lai Sun in 2016.

Carmen Lau, Business Development Director Asia, says C&N’s charter business benefits from its global network, which includes offices in Hong Kong and Phuket, another 10 in Europe and the US, plus representatives offices in Malaysia, Japan, Australia and New Zealand appointed last year.

Tranquility features an Asian-inspired interior by Winch Design;Carmen Lau, C&N’s Business Development Director Asia

“With 21 languages spoken, 12 offices across three continents, an in-house legal expert and a dedicated charter management team, we are one of the best-placed companies to offer 360-degree solutions and a real perspective on the best itineraries and yachts available,” Lau says.

“We call ourselves the ‘original yachting company’ because of our history and we have many repeat clients, many from successive generations of families. We create bespoke itineraries, as some clients may want a quiet time with a lot of luxury, while other travellers can be keener on adventure and exploration.”

C&N has been targeting the current and future generations by investing heavily in IT and its online platforms, which were boosted late last year by a technology merger with Hong Kong-based Nowtboat.com. The latter also manages C&N’s day charters, with Phuket, Bali, Komodo and even Hong Kong among hot spots.

Thailand-based Aphrodite (left) pictured sailing in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands

“Our website and digital ecosystem including Instagram now play a big role in customer interaction,” Lau says. “We are the only company in the industry to have an in-house tech team, so are fully equipped to make the most of these new channels and be ready to respond.

YACHTS AND DESTINATIONS GALORE
Tranquility aside, the weekly rates for C&N’s superyachts in Asia range from about US$23,000 for Thailand-based sailing yachts Aphrodite (93ft) and Dallinghoo (99ft) to upwards of US$140,000 for Indonesia-based Lamima (213ft), the world’s largest wooden sailing yacht.

Thailand and Indonesia remain the company’s leading charter destinations in Asia, but C&N is excited with the addition to its fleet of the 100ft Hummingbird, which it says is the only motor yacht of its size available for charter in the Philippines. Chartering for US$75,000 per week, the four-cabin yacht was designed and built by the Guy Couach shipyard, with an interior by Daniele Chopard.

Outdoor areas include an upper deck featuring a large dining table for up to 10 guests, sunbathing area forward and an aft cockpit with sofas. The swim platform carries a Zodiac tender and converts to a diving platform or sunbathing area, while water toys includes a Seabob, two stand-up paddleboards and snorkelling gear.

A sample seven-day itinerary starting from Manila could take in Hamilo Coast, Puerto Galera, Apo Reef and down to Palawan, where island options include Dumunpalit, Nalaut, Banana, Ditaytayan, Malcapuya and Coron.

In Thailand, charters from Phuket include trips to Phang Nga Bay and Krabi, which can both be included in a 10-day itinerary south that finishes in Langkawi across the Malaysia border. Other destinations include the Similan Islands and further north into Myanmar’s pristine Mergui Archipelago.

Hummingbird (also below) is a new charter option in the Philippines

C&N’s sailing yachts in Thailand include Aphrodite, Dallinghoo and the 90ft Orient Pearl, which have three, four and five cabins respectively.

Ocean Emerald, the futuristic 135-footer designed by Norman Foster, is arguably Thailand’s most renowned charter yacht, with a weekly rate of €95,000 (about US$107,000). The four-deck motor yacht can accommodate up to 10 guests in five cabins and covers the Gulf of Thailand in the summer, moving to Phuket for Andaman Sea charters in the winter.

In Indonesia, the Komodo area 200nm east of Bali is the most popular destination during the northern-hemisphere summer, with most charter yachts spending the winter in Raja Ampat in West Papua, the country’s most easterly province. The Anambas Islands northeast of Singapore are also an emerging destination.

C&N’s Indonesia-based yachts include the magnificent 65m Lamima, fellow sailing phinisis Mutiara Laut (150ft) and Sequoia (86ft), and the 164ft expedition motor yacht Kudanil Explorer. (For more details, see the later chapter on Indonesia.)

Papua New Guinea, Indonesia’s eastern neighbour, is another exciting destination for longer trips, with the 115ft powercat Spirit an idea vessel for exploring its pristine seas (see Yacht Style Issue 48).

Lau says technology can help people enjoy the world’s most stunning yachting destinations, even if not everyone can afford to charter Tranquility.

“As well as being the ‘original yachting company’, Camper & Nicholsons is the most advanced technologically and our website allows visitors to immerse themselves in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, on the most beautiful yachts. Even if they don’t make a booking, it’s nice to be inspired during these challenging times.”

www.camperandnicholsons.com

www.nowboat.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.cothe portside twin cabin Thailand and Indonesia remain the company’s leading charter destinations in Asia, but C&N is excited with the addition to its fleet

of the 100ft Hummingbird, which it says is the only motor yacht of its size available for charter in the Philippines. Chartering for US$75,000 per week, the four-cabin yacht was designed and built by the Guy Couach shipyard, with an interior by Daniele Chopard.

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.

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

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.

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