Recently, we blogged about the Thai government’s efforts to lift the restrictions that kept superyacht charter vessels away from Thailand. Now that the door has been opened for foreign-flagged yachts. In addition, American charterers and tourists are welcome. Here are some cultural taboos that could save you from being branded an “Ugly American.”
BUDDHIST RULES
Keep in mind almost 95% of the Thai population is Buddhist. As in much of southeast Asia, there are cultural taboos that non-Buddhists would not know, some of which are considered religiously offensive.
DO NOT DO THIS
Three things NOT to do on your yacht charter Thailand:
Avoid touching or passing any object over the top of anyone’s head, as a person’s head is viewed as the most sacred body part. Related to this – Do not touch anyone’s head.
Don’t point your foot at any person, and don’t use your foot to move anything, as the foot is viewed as the lowliest body part. Remember to never put your feet up on a table or any furniture. [I thought my mother-in-law was Italian, but now I’m thinking she was Thai, as she always scolded her son for putting his feet on the coffee table while watching TV!!!]
Try never to point, especially with your index finger, as it is considered extremely rude. [Think of President Bill Clinton – he always used his thumb to point, never his index finger. Funny, he doesn’t strike me as a Buddhist!]
ALWAYS DO THIS!
Always use your right hand to pass or receive an object. [Sorry left-handed charterers.]
In conclusion, one of the great joys of a yachting vacation is The Superyacht Experience™. It is the chance to embrace diversity, participate in unique cultural events, and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit. By avoiding these taboos, think how much more enjoyable your Phuket yacht charter vacation will be. You won’t offend the wonderful people of Thailand, and your mother won’t scold you for putting your feet up on the yacht’s furniture!
HOW TO CHARTER A YACHT IN THAILAND
For more information on chartering a yacht in Thailand, contact us today. The team at 1-800 Yacht Charters +1.800.922.4824 / toll-free in North America or +1.305.253.7245 stands by to educate and assist you. Feel free to use our convenient online contact form, if you’d rather. #knowbeforeyougo #yachtcharter
Our friends at Trip Advisor recently sent us an email. “Stunning images of 20 awe-inspiring places you must see.” Most importantly, their members select the locations.
Several of the spots were accessible by yacht. Additionally, they are easily accessed by land during a luxury yacht charter vacation.
FIRST FAVORITE YACHT CHARTER DESTINATION OF 3
PULPIT ROCK – Ryfylke, Norway.
The Pulpit Rock (“Preikestolen” in Norwegian) soars 604 meters over the Lysefjord. This flat mountain plateau was most likely carved and formed from melting ice over 10,000 years ago.
Fjord yacht charters in the summertime certainly remain a popular choice. Uniquely among European customers from neighboring Soviet countries.
The Schooner sail yachtMONTIGNEoften offers Norway yacht charter vacations in the summertime. Her builder is Aegean Yachts. The 2009 super yacht MONTIGNE is a 57 meter (187 foot) three-masted staysail schooner. She accommodates 12 guests.
Her yacht charter rates start at $140,000 USD per week, plus expenses.
SECOND FAVORITE DESTINATION OF 3
PLITVICE LAKES – Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
Founded in 1949, Plitvice is the largest national park in Croatia. Above all, it draws more than 1,200,000 visitors annually. The park situates in the mountainous area of central Croatia. The national park connects the Croatian inland with the Adriatic coastal region. Most importantly, this is a highly popular yachting destination. On the positive side, the interest in Croatia yacht charters continues to grow.
In view of, each summer, clients look for alternatives to the crowded anchorages and overpriced marinas in France and Italy.
Motor yachtAIR, Benetti MINE GAMES, and James Bond boat, DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER, all spend time cruising the waters of the Adriatic yacht charter coastline.
THIRD FAVORITE YACHT CHARTER DESTINATION OF 3
SANTORINI – Cyclades, Greece.
You see photographs of blinding-white buildings with blue roofs. These are juxtaposed against a backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. In other words, chances are that you are seeing Santorini. The views of the sea from the terraces of the ancient towns along the cliffs are mesmerizing. Arguably the most famous island in Greece, Santorini is easily reachable by yacht. Its location is just 120 miles southeast from Greece’s mainland.
In addition, popular Greek yacht charter vessels include motor yacht LADY BRITT and super yacht EXCELLENCE V.
In February we added the brand new 33 meter catamaran yacht QUARANTA to our website. Her addition was in anticipation of her launch and christening.
We are proud to report motor yachtQUARANTA, thelargest carbon hybrid composite power catamaran in the world,was successfully launched in February.
LAUNCH DATE
At 3.30am, the Turkish-built superyacht pulls away from her Tuzla shipyard shed. Further, moves on to the public road by a huge trailer. From there, she tows 3 kilometers to the RMK shipyard for launch.
CHRISTENING
The following day, on Sunday morning at 10:45am, the yacht was officially christened and launched.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The vessel features a flexible layout. Six double cabins offer room for 12 guests. In addition, they are convertible to three VIP suites. Also, to six twins, doubles, or any combination thereof. All guest cabins are located on the main deck and fitted with large windows.
DESIGNERS
Interior and exterior styling was provided by UK’s Lila Lou Studios, with Incat Crowther serving as the naval architects.
CATAMARAN VS MONOHULL
She has four decks and a 9 meter beam. The catamaran provides nearly 50 per cent more space than a comparable 30 meter monohull.
She is available this summer for Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter vacations at a rate of €125,000 per week, plus all expenses.
SIMILAR YACHT
A similar vessel, the Sunreef 70 power catamaran DAMRAK II is also available for hire in the Mediterranean in the summer months.
That is typically the first question a charter broker asks a prospective new customer when approached with an inquiry for a mega yacht charter vacation.
The answer is often a request for a motor yacht. Yachting aficionados routinely inquire by motoryacht brand. They ask specifically, for example, for a Benetti or Trinity yacht charter vessel.
The pendulum, however, seems to be swinging as more clients express interest in luxury sailing charter holidays.
“We are witnessing a shift in our sense of priorities when it comes to the world around us,” says Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, an international yacht rental agency. “The focus on sustainable lifestyles goes beyond how we live at home. Many travelers feel compelled to seek out an eco-friendly vacation, and sailboats are the perfect alternative to fossil-fuel powered motoryachts.“
But what about luxury and comfort? For years, sailboats were considered small and cramped, with far fewer amenities than their power-driven counterparts. “That’s all in the past,” says Sheeder.
“Advances in technology have come a long way. Naval architects have found ways to add upscale amenities to sailboats without compromising the yacht’s performance capabilities.”
KOKOMO SAILING YACHT
Sail yacht KOKOMOis indicative of this direction. The 58 meter sailboat reflects new heights of excellence in terms of design, technology, engineering, performance, and quality.
FOUR REASONS TO CHOOSE A SAILBOAT
With so much to offer, here are 4 great reasons to rent a sailing yacht:
1. Sailboats offer you the chance to experience and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
2. Sailing yachts are more environmentally-responsible (“green“) than motor yachts.
3. Sailboats offer greater fuel economy and less fuel consumption than motor yachts.
4. Sailboats can offer a more tranquil, relaxing experience than a cruise on a motor yacht.
FIFTH REASON – FEEDBACK?
What is the 5th great reason to choose a sailing yacht charter vacation? Click HERE to tell us why you think sailboats are the best way to experience a holiday on the sea.
Sail yacht PHILANDERER is the largest sailing vessel licensed to legally charter in Spanish waters. She wants bookings in the Spanish Balearic Islands this summer!
Philanderer is currently booked from 28th July to 04th August (Palma/Palma). The sailboat is offering special rates for reservations secured before 31st May 2012.
€ 51,000 per week for charters in July and August. (Regular rate is € 56,000 per week)
€ 45,000 per week in June and September. (Regular rate is€ 49,000 per week)
Philanderer comes from Thailand, built by Concorde Yachts. This sailboat is well-known in the luxury yacht charter market. She boasts multiple features. For instance, large interior volume, a great layout for entertainment, and 5 guest cabins. Her onboard amenities include a sauna and a well-furnished gym.
Philanderer completely refit from 2009 through 2011. She is in bristol condition, from top to bottom.
There are an estimated 300 days of sunshine per year. The Balearic Islands offer wonderful beaches and rich culture. They are a preferred holiday destination in Spain. More passengers pass through the Palma de Mallorca airport than any other in Spain.
Her cruising ground is off the eastern side of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a beautiful group of islands that is is divided into 2 territories. The first is Gimnesias. For instance, Mallorca, Menorca and Cabrera in the North. Second is Pitiusas. For instance, Ibiza and Formentera in the Southwest. Numerous coves and protected anchorages make the Balearics an ideal yachting destination. She is especially desirable during warm summer months.
After this weekend’s 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Feadship motor yacht JANA will hoist her anchor and reposition for the winter season in the Maldives.
AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS CHARTER
Expected to arrive in mid December, the classic 46-meter Feadship yacht charter vessel is currently available for a Christmas reservation.
YACHT CHARTER – DESTINATION MALDIVES
Motoryacht JANA will remain in the Maldives through mid April and joins a growing list of yachts for hire in this Indian Ocean paradise.
OTHER YACHTS FOR CHARTER IN MALDIVES
There are other megayachts committed to the winter season in the Maldives. For instance,l the 64 meter Benetti motoryacht SILVER ANGEL and sail yacht PERLA DEL MARE. Additionally, the 60 meter motor yacht ARKLEY and the 150 foot motoryacht MOECCA.
JANA AT FORMULA 1 RACE
Serving as a privately-chartered spectator yacht at this year’s Formula 1 race in Abu Dhabi, Feadship yacht JANA will complete one more charter in Abu Dhabi in November before embarking for the Indian Ocean.
JANA SHEEDER COMMENTS
The prospect of offering alternative destinations for winter charters is exciting for JANA Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. “Our team is committed to expanding the destination options available to our clients,” says Sheeder. “A winter holiday in the warm waters of the Maldives is an excellent alternative to the traditional Caribbean yacht charter vacation.”
THE MALDIVES
The Maldives offer visitors the chance to enjoy crystal clear water and sugar white, sandy beaches. The Republic of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean. It is an island nation. In specific, formed by a double-wrapped chain of twenty-six (26) atolls. The winter water temperature is amazingly warm. Specifically, about 31 degrees celsius (87 degrees fahrenheit). Opportunities for snorkeling and watersports are endless. There are hundreds of reefs. In addition, many in the shallow waters of enclosed lagoons.
“We hope to add even more megayachts to the growing list available this winter in the Maldives.”
Hoping to fill the remaining gaps in her charter calendar, the owner of the 58 meter Trinitymotor yacht MI SUENO will consider all offers for
3 – 14 June
2 – 15 July
15 August on...
MI SUENO motoryacht
Built in the USA in 2010, the 190 foot yachtMI SUENOoffers accommodations for 12 guests in staterooms.
Trinity yacht charter enthusiasts will recognize the upscale amenities synonymous with this famed American shipyard. She has many features. For instance,
Massive Split-Level Master Stateroom
Wheelchair Accessible Elevator
Zero Speed Stabilizers
Jacuzzi and Splash Pool
Two Wine Cellars
Raised Aft Deck
Patrick Knowles Interior Design
RATES
Published summer rates for Mediterranean yacht charters €325,000 per week in July and August and €280,000 per week in June and September.
Need a little incentive to press on with your plans to enjoy a 7 night Tahiti yacht charter? Perhapssaving over $100,000 off the regular weekly rateof a 191 foot megayacht might do the trick!
UNBRIDLED SAVINGS
The 58 meterTrinity yacht chartersuperyacht UNBRIDLED has just announced a major price reduction to entice luxury travelers to come explore the exotic locale of Tahiti and the islands of the South Pacific.
TAHITI, ANYONE?
Currently enroute to Tahiti, motor yachtUNBRIDLEDhas converted her rates from Euro €329,000 per week to USD $300,000 per week for the months of March and April, 2012.
DISCOUNT OFFERED
The currency conversion equates to a price savings in US Dollars of approximately $132,660 – abouta 30% discount.
YACHT SPECIFICATIONS
Built in 2009 in the USA by Trinity Yachts, the five stateroom vessel offers accommodations for 10 guests, complimented by a crew of 13.
KEY FEATURES
She has multiple key features. For instance,
• A large inventory of watertoys. For example, waverunners, kayaks, a Hobie Cat sailboat, and waterskis
• Luxurious appointments and comfort. She has a stunning, richly-detailed interior
• Superb cuisine by Chef Jason Meakin
• An impeccable crew. Yacht co-captains are Richard Grissell and Elmar Blaauw
WHERE IS SHE HEADED NEXT?
After spending late spring in the south Pacific, Motor yacht UNBRIDLED will continue her world tour. Premium dates remain available for charters in the Mediterranean in the summer months.
The naval architects at Espen Oeino International S.A.R.L. continue to raise the bar of superyacht design. Their latest offering is Sunrise Yachts motor yacht IRIMARI.
Delivered to her owner in July, the 63 meter yacht is currently cruising in the Greek islands. So far there is no word if the vessel will be entering the Greek yacht charter fleet.
Sunrise 63 yacht IRIMARI makes her official debut at the 2015 Monaco Yacht Show.
Per our friends at Boat International, one exciting “superfeature” to be expected inside motoryacht Irimari is “…a video wall spanning two decks!”
Espen Oeino International is considered one of the leading design studios of private yacht charter vessels. They base in Monaco. Their specialty is in the category of Superyachts. Their portfolio includes Lurssen motor yacht MARTHA ANN, and the world’s largest yacht available for charter, Fincantieri yacht SERENE.
TURKISH BUILDER
The launch of yacht IRIMARI marks the first of the Sunrise 63 series to splash down for the Turkish builder. The Espen Oeino designed yacht features interiors by Focus Yacht Design and naval architecture by Unique Yacht Design. Built with a high tensile steel hull and aluminum superstructure, the yacht has a transatlantic range of 5,000 miles, and a top speed of 17 knots.
Her owner initially plans spending time onboard. We hope to see this beautiful yacht enter the charter marketplace.
It’s hard to believe the 2012 London Olympic Games are less than one year from now. As the games draws closer, it’s expected more than a dozen luxury mega yacht charter vessels will be available for hire along the fabled Thames river.
SUPERYACHTS AVAILABLE
One of the first yachts to commit to the London games is the 75 meter motor yacht LEANDER. The massive superyacht will be available from the evening of the 27th July.
Yacht Leander accommodates twelve guests. She has ten luxurious staterooms, including two master suites on the main deck. In addition, accommodations exist for up to four staff members (nannies, bodyguards, etc.). White glove service is provided. In specific, by the yacht’s highly-trained crew of 25. Captain Julian Cope leads the crew.
LEANDER G DETAILS
She has multiple roomy saloons. In addition, spacious deck areas throughout. An assortment of amenities are available. For instance, a fully-equipped gym. Additionally, a swimming pool with counter current and Jacuzzi-style jets. A 2003 launch, Leander G maintenance is to highest standards. Her equipment is updated.
RATE
Leander’s weekly rate during the London Olympics is €455,000 plus all expenses.
LUXURY TAX ABOLISHED The recent Mediterranean Yacht Charter show in Genoa, Italy, learned that the 3 year old Sardinia Luxury Tax is no more. ABOUT THE TAX The repeal of the Sardinia Luxury Tax is especially good news to charter enthusiasts. Anyone considering a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean is fortunate. The law […] read more
The world of luxury yacht charter has finally arrived in the Seychelles. Motor yacht SEA STREAM, a 76 foot Ferretti with room for 8 guests, is now available for Caribbean yacht charter enthusiasts looking for a new destination. Ferretti yacht SEA STREAM is now available as the only high quality, luxury crewed motor yacht available […] read more
PLAN AND PACK Yikes! What to pack? In just over three weeks, you leave on a week-long Bahama yacht charter vacation. You choose a sleek, performance, basic sailing yacht with crew. Your menu provided to your yacht through your charter broker, and your crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Seriously, what do you pack? […] read more
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