Sardinia Luxury Tax on Mediterranean Yacht Charter Vessels Abolished

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Looking for a change of scenery? We get it. “Pandemic fatigue” is starting to set in for most of us. Indeed, the idea of escaping the “Covid blues” sounds better and better every day. Covid travel restrictions are important to know.
For many affluent travelers, a holiday luxury yacht charter is very appealing. After all, if you have to practice social-distancing, why not set up camp on a private yacht?
Unfortunately, much of the Caribbean is still imposing harsh restrictions on tourism. For example, mandatory tourist quarantines are in place in the British Virgin Islands. It is the most popular yacht charter destination in the world. We anticipate these restrictions will still be in effect for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.
Travel restrictions in the Bahamas have relaxed significantly compared to the start of the year. Still, there are strict guidelines for Bahamas yacht charter guests.
Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.
These rules apply to every guest over 10 years old. Each passenger on your yacht must get an RT PCR nasal swab Covid-19 test 5 days or less before arrival. Test results from any other type of COVID-19 test are unacceptable. Passengers under the age of 10 do not need to be tested. All tests must be negative for entering the Bahamas.
Each guest must complete a travel health visa, along with submitting a negative Covid-19 test,. The application is available online. First, go to www.travel.gov.bs. Second, select “International,” and create an account. Fill out your visa information, upload your negative test results, and submit your application. Allow up to 72 hours to receive an approval confirmation. IMPORTANT TO NOTE, you need to print the approval document and bring it with you. You must present the document to Bahamian officials when entering the country.
5 Little Known Facts About The Bahamas
You must opt-in for health insurance when you complete your health visa application. Specifically, you will be covered for any Covid-19 health issues during your time in the Bahamas. For example, the cost of a mandatory rapid antigen test (required on day 5 of your visit) will be covered. You’ll also be covered if you require quarantine (up to $7000) or medical evacuation (up to $50,000). Charter guests staying 4 days or less pay $40 for coverage. Visitors staying more than four days pay $60.
You are required to take this test if you stay in the Bahamas for 5 or more days. You must quarantine aboard your charter yacht while you await the results of the test. Don’t worry, results are typically texted or emailed within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT NOTE, a rapid antigen test is not required if you have no plans to go ashore during your charter.
Charter guests are required to answer an online health questionnaire each day. This survey is used to identify potential Covid-19 symptoms. Any guests who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms during their charter will be required to take a rapid antigen test. Any positive results will require a Covid-19 RT-PCR swab test.
There are rules and requirements to follow when onshore. For example, wearing a face mask is mandatory in public places, except on the beaches. Additionally, social distancing is expected wherever possible in public areas. Finally, be aware that some of the individual islands have evening curfews.
It’s nice to know we can escape to the Bahamas during the holidays. Specifically, since so many restrictions are still in place in our hometowns. As they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.” Test it out! Everyone can enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter vacation IF we follow the guidelines listed above.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters
Jana Sheeder, President and Co-owner of 1-800 Yacht Charters says,
This has been an unsettling year for everyone. You owe it to yourself, friends, and loved ones to appreciate and enjoy the holidays. Relax and reflect upon all that we have, and do. Take time to smell the roses and to express gratitude. Show yourself some love and plan a well-earned vacation. Push away the stress,k and leave the fatigue behind. Welcome mindfulness and wellness. Make memories and celebrate another year of togetherness. Please stay safe, follow the rules, and take Covid-19 prevention seriously. Regardless, please have a WONDERFUL holiday. Love, Jana
This entry was posted in News Special Events Frequently Asked Questions Educational Yacht Charter Caribbean and tagged covid-19 blues, pandemic blues, mindfulness, covid education for yachting, Covid-19, yacht charter Bahamas, covid education for yacht charters, rules for covid, Bahamas, covid travel restrictions, wellness yacht charter, yacht charter rules during pandemic, do children need covid testing, what are covid requirements for yacht charter, who is exempt from covid tests in the bahamas, covid-19 guidelines, Bahamas yacht charter, covid nasal swab test, travel to bahamas, Jana Sheeder, health visa information, travel during covid, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, how do i get a health visa for travel?, pandemic fatigue, catamaran charter, Covid blues, covid fatique
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COVID 19 update from 1-800 Yacht Charters. The Bahamas have again closed their borders to most USA travelers. The closure is in response to the spike in Covid-19 cases.
Fortunately, private yacht charter vacations are exempt. Accordingly, 1-800 Yacht Charters will continue to Deliver the Superyacht Experience™ to their clients.
Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Minnis addressed the nation on Sunday. He announced the closing of all airports and seaports to tourists from the United States. The ban takes effect Wednesday, July 22, 2020.
Both private flights and private yachts are specifically exempt for the new ban.
In other words, our private yacht charter vessels and crews can still welcome-aboard guests in the Bahamas. The Superyacht Experience™ will continue. The yachts will provide guests with a platform for adventure and discovery. Every charter will reman an opportunity to reconnect with family, and embrace diverse cultures.
Private flights to the Bahamas are easy to arrange. The flight from Miami to Nassau is as short as 40 minutes. Our charter specialists will handle all logistics. from the time you leave your home, until you step aboard your yacht.
Obviously, certain Covid-19 protocols remain in place. Requirements include proof of a negative COVID-19 RT PCR test. The test must come from an accredited laboratory. It also must be taken within 10 days of arrival. In addition, an electronic health visa is a must. Applications may be submitted at http://www.travel.gov.bs. Helpful tip: applications can take up to 72 hours to process. Make sure to leave adequate lead time!
We stay on top of all Covid 19 update information. For a list of available yachts and “summer saver discounts,” call our team at 1-800 Yacht Charters at at 305-720-7245 for immediate response. We’d love to plan a yacht charter vacation for you like this one!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Caribbean Destinations News Educational and tagged Covid-19 pandemic, airport closures, seaport closures, the superyacht experience, covid-19 update, Bahamas closes its borders, Covid-19, How to plan private flights?, Bahamian Prime Minister
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“When these difficult times return to normal, our family is interested in booking a yacht charter for late summer in Greece.
We’re worried if unforeseen coronna (sp) virus issues could arise we might be forced to cancel, and we don’t want to lose our deposits.
Is there anything we can do to protect ourselves?”
-Vanessa A, East Fallowfield, PA
“Hi, Vanessa. The short and simple answer is:
‘YES. There are things 1-800 Yacht Charters can do to protect you should you need to cancel your charter due to Covid-19 issues.’
There are insurance products available for trip cancellations, but they are not uniform in their coverage options. I have developed and implemented a 2-part strategy to protect our clients.
1. FREE Cancellation Policy (penalty-free Covid-19 refund policy)
2. Modified Charter Contracts with a Covid-19 protection addendum
You can stop reading here, and know we’ve got your back. Please read on, if you want a more in-depth explanation…”
–Jana L Sheeder, President, 1-800 Yacht Charters
As a general rule, yacht charter contracts are written to protect the yacht owner and his/her asset (the yacht). This is in the event of damages or cancellations. The rationale is simple. Specifically, the client may be paying thousands of dollars to enjoy a vacation on a yacht. However, the owner’s exposure is far greater. Moreover, many yachts are worth millions of dollars. Owners wisely use a well-crafted, legal charter agreement to protect themselves.
One example of how owners protect themselves is known as the “Force majeure provision.” This clause is inserted into most luxury yacht charter agreements. It gives the owner the right to cancel a charter due to “Acts of God.” These are acts/events that prohibit the yacht and crew from proceeding with the charter.
Understanding Force Majeure in Yacht Charter Agreements
This relates to the Covid-19 virus situation. Under the force majeure provision, a yacht owner has to return the charter money to the customer. This is if the yacht cannot perform due to marina closures, virus-infected crew members etc. That’s good news for the charter customer. However…
IF the charterer is the one who cancels, things work differently. Even due to Covid-19 issues (for instance, due to a quarantine or flight cancellation), the Owner has the right to claim ALL of the installments paid and due from the Charterer. In other words, the Charterer forfeits any and all monies paid to date for the charter! The owner is not obligated to reschedule or to give the funds back.
We believe that the force majure provision is the main reason potential charterers withdrew their inquiries for spring and early summer. Some clients willingly canceled their trips. They know they would lose their initial deposits. They wanted to stop the bleeding now. Stop it before second and third deposits were due as the charter dates draw closer.
1-800 Yacht Charters now offers a penalty-free Covid-19 refund policy* on a large selection of luxury charter yachts. To insure the yacht owners comply, we prepare an addendum to the standard charter agreement. This addendum clearly states the owner of the yacht agrees to a full refund. This is if the charterer is forced to cancel due to Covid-19 issues.
Now charterers can protect their deposits in 2 ways. They can either reschedule their trip(s) to a future date or receive a complete refund.
Would you like to review the Covid-19 charter addendum? Send an email request to info@1800yachtcharters.com today. Please include your full name and phone number in your email. In conclusion, we have your back. Our team at 1-800 Yacht Charters values your business and vacations. We protect you.
*This new policy does not apply to all yachts. It also may depend upon the charter destination and charter dates. Certain restrictions apply. Please check with your yacht charter consultant before proceeding with your reservation. More importantly, clarify this before making any deposits or payments.
This entry was posted in News Educational and tagged trip cancellation insurance, What if I cancel my yacht charter?, luxury yacht charter agreements, Jana L. Sheeder, 1-800 Yacht Charters opinion, owners rights, Covid-19, How does Force Majeure Provision work?, client rights, yacht charter client rights, yacht charter owner rights, Acts of God, strategy, client protection, yacht charter refunds, contract addendum, trip cancellation, Force Majeure, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, how am i protected for yacht charter booking?, contract clauses
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Your hometown lockdown is lifted. Your arm hurts like heck where they stuck you with the Pfizer-BioNTech.
Things are getting back to normal. You are vaccinated, and oh-so-ready to reschedule that summer 2020 yachting escape.
Don’t worry. France, Italy, and Spain are right where you left them. So, what to do after Covid?
Close your eyes. Do you see the beaches? The dockside cafes? Imagine laying poolside – on the sundeck of superyacht ALFA NERO…
Unfortunately, even with much of Covid in the rearview mirror, the drudgery of getting to the Mediterranean sinks in.
Without question, it’s a LONG flight to the Med. Getting directly onboard a superyacht after hours in the air is not appealing. Understandably, no one wants to waste their first day on the sea, feeling dog-tired and irritable.
Fortunately, there is a simple solution to reducing jet lag and stress before your yacht charter begins. What is the solution? Check into a boutique property and decompress for a day!
A pre-charter layover is a great way to unwind after traveling. Let your yacht crew scramble with last-minute preparations. You will be relaxing in a calming, resort environment.
You can lay by the pool, or catch up on some needed sleep. Certainly, a stroll around town and a late-night espresso in a nearby café will have you in the right frame of mind.
Then, the next day, your crew picks you up from the resort and whisks you away to your awaiting superyacht.
Here are three, can’t-miss layover hospitality venues to help you get your groove back before you board your luxury charter yacht.
First, this new resort is scheduled to open in July, 2021. It is located in a quiet, almost-hidden cove in Xarraca Bay. Four-com magazine describes the resort as, “This magical cove with unobstructed sunset views and special energy is where the golden hour lasts until the Cinderella hour. Sundowner, guitar, or loved one in hand, anything feels possible. Live layers of programming and experiences will constantly evolve to celebrate music, art, sustainable fashion, spirituality, pioneering wellness, culinary exploration and culture, all synonymous with the island.” How’s that for a glowing endorsement?
We’re big fans of resorts with access to a beach and a deep-water bay. In fact, after a day of unwinding, your yacht’s crew can bring the ship’s tender right up to the beach. You and your companions can enjoy a short tender ride to your awaiting yacht. And let’s be honest – is there anything cooler than seeing your yacht at anchor, knowing everyone is watching you as you tender over and board on the aft swim platform???
The Gritti Palace, Venice
Second, this noble former palace and now hotel dates back over 500 years. It overlooks the Grand Canal in the heart of Venice. In fact, each of the hotel’s 82 guest rooms and suites offers unobstructed canal views. This is an intimate private residence masquerading as a hotel. Enjoy delicious Venetian cuisine at the Club del Doge restaurant. Too tired for dinner after a long flight? No problem. Just grab a table for cocktails on the terrace at the Riva Lounge. The next day, your yacht’s tender can pick you up at the property’s own dock. This is reminiscent of the Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival!
No, it’s not a typo. The question marks have been inserted for a reason. Indeed, we did promise you the name of three hospitality venues for the perfect pre-charter layover.
So why the secrecy, you might wonder? The reason is simple. It’s our passion at 1-800 Yacht Charters, to Deliver The Superyacht Experience™ to you. Part of that experience is the creation of a bespoke luxury yacht charter vacation for you and your travel companions. Anyone can write a blog with a list of beautiful hotels and resorts. We prefer to listen to you; to hear about your style preferences. Basically, we want to understand your motivations and expectations when you travel.
By listening to you, we can create the experience you desire – the one that will enrich your life…
Let’s do this. Contact us and tell us where you want to go yachting. We’ll ask you some questions and we’ll come up with several yachts for your consideration. Of course, we’ll also suggest a great hospitality property or boutique resort where you can chill before your charter! After Covid, it’s time to get back to normal!
Please call us at 305-720-7245 or fill out our convenient online yacht charter inquiry form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ .
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations News Frequently Asked Questions Reviews Educational and tagged Six Senses, Venice, Xarraca Bay, yacht charter vacation, spa endorsement, The Gritti Palace, Ibiza, Venice yacht charter, After Covid, boutique resort, vacation plans, golden hour, Covid-19, getting to Mediterranean, Venice Film Festival, strategy, Alfa Nero, Ibiza yacht charter, Superyacht Alfa Nero, wellness, Covid, layover, Venice Biennale
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Miami’s premier superyacht marina, Island Gardens Deep Harbour, is under new management. The “upgrade” in management, in our opinion, is long overdue.
The new name for the Miami Superyacht Marina is Yacht Haven Grande Miami at Island Gardens. The marina opened in 2016 and is the annual home of the SuperYacht Miami Show each February.
Island Global Yachting (also known as IGY Marinas) will operate the rebranded Miami marina. This destination offers 50 superyacht berths – for yachts up to a maximum length of 550ft. In-slip fueling is available. High-power electrical service is also available.
The marina is located on Watson Island. The island is ideally located between Miami Beach to the east and downtown Miami to the west. Indeed, the views of the Miami skyline are postcard-perfect. The proximity to trendy area hotspots is unbeatable. This deep-water marina is always our first choice for our Miami yacht charter clients. Nevertheless, the marina was less than ideal for the yacht crews as they awaited the arrival of our charter guests. Specifically, the marina lacked a captain and crew lounge. Furthermore, customs and immigration assistance was sketchy at best.
IGY has resolved these issues. There is now a crew lounge, as well as a conference room. Additionally, concierge services are available including valet and laundry/dry cleaning. On-site dining is also available. In fact, the newly re-opened dock-side café, aptly named, “The Deck” is described by Forbes as “Miami’s Hottest New Restaurant.”
We’re excited to take advantage of the new services and amenities. Apprehension gives way to anticipation, as we await the upcoming Superyacht Miami show (February 2021). We are unsure as to whether the show will go on or be well-attended in 2021. In specific, Covid, the pandemic, the Coronavirus changed the landscape of events. What’s exciting about the show? As an example, in the past, we transported prospective clients to the show via yacht tenders. The car parking lot was poorly maintained. We found it simpler, cleaner, more in tune with the theme, AND more fun to arrive via boat. Arrival by car is once again an option, with IGY concierge services in place.
Many of the Miami superyacht charter vessels we represent attend this yacht show. In fact, February weather is ideal for our company President Jana Sheeder to shoot yacht inspection videos of our favorite superyachts [such as Benetti yacht 11.11 and Lurssen yacht Martha Ann.]
We’re excited to welcome IGY Marinas to Miami. Moreover, we look forward to commencing more Miami superyacht charter vacations from this rebranded location.
In conclusion, book a superyacht with us for your own private luxury yacht charter vacation today! Contact your yacht charter brokers at 1-800 Yacht Charters at 305-720-7245. If you prefer, complete our online inquiry form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now/ .
We will be in touch with you right away to plan The Superyacht Experience™ for you!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News Special Events Educational and tagged Miami Boat Show, Yacht Haven Grande, Forbes, yacht charter videos, Superyacht Miami Show, Island Gardens, Miami Florida, Benetti video, Watson Island, IGY Marinas, yacht show, superyacht video walkthrough, Benetti, The Deck, yacht walkthrough, Miami, Miami's Hottest New Restaurant, business rebranding, Superyacht Marina, superyacht concierge services, Covid and boat shows, Lurssen yacht charter, yacht charter miami, superyacht concierge marina, Will there be boat shows in miami due to Covid, 11-11, Miami Skyline, Covid-19, Covid, Jana Sheeder, South Beach, customs and immigration, Coronavirus, special events and covid, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, motoryacht Martha Ann, downtown Miami, Superyacht Miami 2021, boat show, martha ann, sobe, Miami Beach, 1-800 Yacht Charter videos, Covid-19 pandemic
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The owner of super yacht KISMET, Floridian Shad Khan, announces a donation of $1 million dollars to help Covid-19 relief efforts.
As a result, the funds will be given to several northeast Florida organizations.
Khan is an avid yachtsman and owner of the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars.
The gifts will be distributed to multiple groups, such as
The Jaguars released a statement by Khan on the team’s website to announce the gift. It reads, in part:
“I want to say thank you to every group or individual who is personally stepping up for the people of Jacksonville during these uncertain times”
Obviously an incredibly generous person. We are so proud to charter his beautiful yacht and to be in the same industry.
Again, Khan owns the 312 foot superyacht KISMET. She is a 2014 Lurssen. Specifically, she accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms. The yacht employs a crew of 28 attend to the charter guests. The crew members also handle the daily operation of the yacht. In fact, yacht operations include food and beverage service, and all onshore logistics. Common logistics involve tours and event reservations, vehicle transportation, and airport transfers.
The yacht charters for €1,200,000 per week. Her rate includes the yacht, crew, and use of onboard amenities. Also included in rate is use of watertoys. Any local VAT and all running expenses (for instance, food, fuel, bar and dockage) are additional. Eastern and Western Mediterranean are available ports of call for summer 2020.
Multiple islands in the Eastern and Western Med. For example,
Livin’ Large With Queen B On Yacht Kismet in Italy
It should be noted that Khan plans to make additional contributions as needed. What a generous hero! He is ready to help his fellow Floridians combat the Coronavirus. As of March 30, the state of Florida reports 5705 cases and 77 deaths.
For additional information or to charter superyacht KISMET, please CLICK HERE today.
#covid-19 #donations #yachtcharter #coronavirus
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News and tagged Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter, donation, kismet, Covid-19, American Red Cross, French Riviera, Coronavirus, Feeding Homeless, NFL, Jacksonville Jaguars, Western Mediterranean yacht charter, queen b, superyacht owner, Cyprus yacht charters, Western Mediterranean, yacht owner, Eastern Mediterranean, Mediterranean yacht charter, Kahn
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Avid yachtsman Gregory Kutsen is the owner of Mantus Marine. His company manufactures and sells nautical items. For instance, boat anchors, boat lights, SCUBA gear, and other products. Mantus Marine products are found on many luxury yacht charter vessels.
Kutsen’s goal is to make everyone’s boating experience more enjoyable and safer.
“We constantly look at new ways of solving existing problems.” Gregory Kutsen
Apparently, Kutsen’s company mission goes beyond the marine industry. Greg Kutsen, nautical business owner, is also Dr. Greg Kutsen, MD. Kutsen is an emergency room physician in Houston Texas. There’s a critical shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) in his community. As a result, Kutsen and Mantus Marine are shifting from building anchors. Now, they convert snorkel masks into PPE medical devices to address the shortage!
Kutsen sees firsthand the importance of medical equipment to protect the hospital workers in Texas.
“I work as an ER Doctor so the shortage and the need for PPE was very clear (amid the COVID-19 pandemic).”
Mantus Marine has several innovative solutions to address the needs of health care professionals and hospitals. They use 3D printers to convert snorkel masks into BiPAP ventilator masks. They also design and produce acrylic intubation shields.
The masks and shields are donated to local emergency rooms and ICUs in the Houston area.
Simultaneously, the anchor manufacturer addresses the immediate shortages of PPE in health care systems. A recent media article states
“…(using their connections with) international supply chains…Mantus Marine purchased over 1.5 million surgical masks, 100,000 *KN95 masks, and 70,000 face shields to help supply hospitals across the state, including the Memorial Hermann and Methodist Hospital systems in Houston and regional hospitals and clinics in the Dallas area.”
Yes, you read it* correctly in the quote. Masks donated were KN95 (not N95) masks. KN95 masks are made in China and have a different fit than N95 masks, among a few other differences. Both are authorized for use during the Covid-19 pandemic. For more information about the differences in KN95 and N95, click here.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and her team are proud to acknowledge Dr. Gregory Kutsen and Mantus Marine. These heroes solve problems and make a difference. Both on sea and on land. APPLAUSE AND GRATITUDE.
#yachtcharter #thesuperyachtexperience #coronavirus #facemasks
This entry was posted in Gadgets Yacht Charter News Educational and tagged What's the difference between N95 and KN95 masks?, Covid-19, Coronavirus, pandemic, masks, ventilators, heroes, 3d printing, Mantus Marine, Dr. Greg Kutsen, Covid-19 pandemic, 1-800 Yacht Charters, KN95 masks, N95 masks
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