There’s nothing more important than selecting a memorable destination for your first luxury yacht charter. It sets the tone for dreaming about future adventures in exotic locales. “Will it be a St. Lucia yacht charter this spring, or should we wait till summer and plan a Greece yacht charter vacation?”
But what about your fifth charter – or your sixth? You’ve “been there…done that…got the t-shirt.”
At that point, the focus shifts from destinations to accommodations – and the opportunity to experience the creature comforts of the newest and largest yachts in the world.
The preferred “brand” of superyacht now comes into play, and multi-repeat charterers find themselves daydreaming about a week “anywhere” on, perhaps, a brand new Perini Navi yacht charter.
At this point, selecting the right vessel for an odyssey at sea becomes a matter of personal tastes and expectations. But with dozens of yachts seeking rental business, how does a person choose?
Enter the professional charter broker.
More than a destination specialist, the charter broker knows the yachts and the crews that operate them. A good broker will work to identify a yacht and crew most compatible to a client’s lifestyle.
To do this, brokers attempt to delve into the customer’s personality and background by asking key questions: Where do you live? What are your hobbies? Do you like to entertain at home?
The answers to these type of queries helps the broker understand the overall lifestyle of the charterer. From this point, the broker can glean his or her records to identify yachts and crews that might be compatible with the charterer and his or her guests.
Jana Sheeder, the President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, explains the strategy. “If a client lives in a world of white-glove service and refined style, the broker must identify a crew that can deliver that same level of service.” She continues, “Crew, however, is only part of the equation, as the vessel’s decor and amenities must also be reflective of the client’s tastes.”
Many American clients prefer the style of a US-built ship, such as a Trinity or a Westport. European customers often prefer the old world elegance of a Feadship or Benetti.
For many multi-repeat customers, destination remains secondary to the pedigree of the yacht and the subsequent talents of the crew. Says Sheeder, “The key to success is understanding the client’s lifestyle before you begin to promote one yacht over another.” Sheeder concludes, “You don’t promote a yacht with an onboard spa and a masseuse to a client who doesn’t get manicures.”
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This entry was posted in Destinations Frequently Asked Questions Educational and tagged motoryacht charter, Mediterranean yacht charter, Destinations, caribbean yacht charter, St. Lucia yacht charter
Posted on“In each of the past three summer seasons, we have seen an increase in interest in Dalmatian yacht charter adventures in Croatia,” says Sheeder. “We are advising our clients to budget not only for the increase in VAT, but also for the higher excise taxes on fuel that were approved in November. In short, the cost to enjoy both a Croatia bareboat rental or a fully crewed yacht vacation will cost about 5% more in the summer of 2014.”
This entry was posted in Destinations News and tagged sailing yacht, Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter, VAT value added tax, Destinations, Jana Sheeder, 1800yachtcharters, Croatia, Waterfalls, sailboat charter, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, VAT, yacht charter croatia, luxury yacht charter croatia
Posted onThe 6th edition of the Perini Navi Cup has concluded, and once again several Perini Navi yacht charter vessels have participated and made a strong showing…
Competing in this year’s event were Perini Navi yacht PERSEUS 3 along with yacht MALTESE FALCON and Perini yacht SEAHAWK, and this year’s winner, sail yacht ROSEHEARTY – all currently available for rental through 1-800 Yacht Charters.
Also in attendance as spectator yachts were motor yacht EXUMA and sailing yacht FIDELIS and sail yacht MELEK.
Held September 2 through 5 in Porto Cervo at the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, the 2015 Perini Navi Cup featured three days of spirited racing along challenging courses through the islands of the La Maddalena archipelago. The intense sailing competition was punctuated by social gatherings and nightly soirees, all leading up to the gala dinner with entertainment by Andrea Bocelli.
Italy’s Perini Navi shipyard is renowned for the massive dimensions of the yachts they produce, as well as their commitment to cutting edge technology and luxurious finishes. In terms of deck space and interior amenities, they are unrivaled as charter yachts, and can be rented in the Caribbean in the winter and throughout the Mediterranean in the summer.
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1-800 Yacht Charters’ offering of a sampling of Perini Navi yachts for hire . We’d love to charter one for your special vacation. Contact us for availability.
This entry was posted in Good Times Special Events and tagged special events, Perini Navi, Destinations, sailboat charter, Maltese Falcon, Race, Porto Cervo, Andrea Bocelli
Posted onThe National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America has released a disturbing study detailing the threat of plastic pollution in the ocean, and its impact on seabirds. Plastic trash is found in 90 percent of seabirds. The rate is growing steadily as global production of plastics increases.
According to the Academy, the “Threat of plastic pollution to seabirds is global, pervasive, and increasing.”
The areas of impact facing the greatest threats are the southern boundary of the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic Oceans.
Plastic found inside birds includes bottle caps, plastic shopping bags, and tiny pieces the size of rice that have been broken down by the sun and waves.
After reading the study’s abstract, Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters commented on the health impact facing the seabirds. “Living along the coast of South Florida, I have seen the small plastic pieces of plastic that wash up into our mangroves and our shoreline,” says Sheeder. “The wildlife rescue groups that we support tell us sharp-edged plastic pieces can kills birds by punching holes in their internal organs. Some seabirds eat so much plastic, there is little room in their stomachs for food. Lack of food affects their body weight and jeopardizes their health.”
Sheeder echoes the concerns of scientists and environmentalists: “At current levels, virtually every seabird will be consuming plastic by 2050. If we don’t address this issue, we are looking at a major contributing factor to the possible extinction of many seabird species. We can’t let that happen.”
Sheeder feels her yachting industry can do more in terms of effective waste management to reduce the threat. “Almost all of the yachts we represent for private yacht charter vacations have the onboard capability to generate fresh drinking water. Now, when our clients request plastic bottled water to be placed onboard prior to their charter, we encourage them to forgo plastic and drink the yacht’s purified water.”
In lieu of plastic water bottles, Sheeder even offers her clients complimentary reusable beverage containers.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, cleaning plastic and debris from coastline near her home in South Florida
Sheeder is confident the tide can be turned. “While the report by the National Academy of Sciences paints a grim future, it also points out that effective waste management can reduce the threat. Protecting our future means preserving the marine environment and promoting responsibility onboard our yachts, in the seas, and along our shores.”
Sheeder further comments, “Everyone can do something. Even just one thing every day. It’s not hard to take that extra moment to help another. Sadly, so many prefer just to stick their heads in the sand rather than being role models and making a difference.”
She encourages others to:
Calling all eco heroes! Comment on this post and include your email address, and we will contact you to send you your own customized totebag so that you can be an #ecohero with us!
This entry was posted in News Educational and tagged eco-friendly, Giftivism and Generosity, yacht charter, Gratitude, Charity, Destinations, Conservation Efforts, Jana Sheeder, Make A Difference, 1800yachtcharters, wildlife, protect the environment, protect marine life, random acts of kindness, beach cleanups, Be the Change
Posted onThe restriction that kept superyacht charter vessels away from Thailand has officially been lifted, opening the door for more foreign-flagged yachts to offer vacation rentals in Thai waters.
In September, the Thai government issued a Royal Decree to allow yachts to apply for a Superyacht Charter License for Thailand. Until now, only Thai-flagged yachts were allowed to operate charters in the countries territorial waters, with foreign megayachts restricted from beginning and ending their trips in Thai waters (although temporary entry was allowed).
According to Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, the new license, in effect, has created a new destination for private yacht charter vacations. “We can now offer an exciting new cruising destination in Southeast Asia to our clients,” says Sheeder. “The decree will make it easier for charter yachts to relocate for the winter at the conclusion of the summer Mediterranean season.”
Thus far, 3 licenses were granted in Bangkok on the same day the decree was issued. The first license issued was granted to 41m OCEAN EMERALD, one of three identical charter yachts (OCEAN SAPPHIRE and OCEAN PEARL the others) well known in the Mediterranean.
In related news, Thailand’s Prime Minister has announced the new Thailand Yacht Show will take place at the Ao Po Grande Marina in Phuket in February 2016. Located in Phang Nga Bay, the marina is undergoing major upgrades including berths for up to 200 yachts, a permanent breakwater, provisioning outlets (ideal for Thailand bareboat charter clients), and luxury condos overlooking the marina.
For information on arranging a charter vacation in Thailand, email your request to us at info@1800yachtcharters.com, call us at 1-800-YACHTCHARTERS (1-800-922-4824), or use our convenient online form. We look forward to working with you.
This entry was posted in Destinations News and tagged 1-800 Yacht Charters, Destinations, 1800yachtcharters, Laws, yacht charter Thailand, bareboat charter, yacht charter southeast asia, Thailand yacht show
Posted onAsk anyone who has enjoyed a yachting vacation what activity they enjoyed the most, and chances are they will tell you, “the snorkeling.” Indeed, there is something magical about donning a pair of fins, strapping on a mask and snorkel, and exploring the world below the waves.
It is this opportunity to explore first-hand the undersea world that draws so many travelers to South Florida, to enjoy a Florida yacht charter vacation, and spend part of the time off the boat – and in the water.
With so many areas easily accessible and filled with interesting sights, we asked our charter department to put their heads together and come up with their favorite snorkeling spots in South Florida. In no particular order, here are their top 3:
1. PEANUT ISLAND (Rivera Beach)
Above the waterline, it’s hardly a remote, tropical oasis. This unique eighty acre public park is a man-made island situated in the Intracoastal Waterway near the Lake Worth Inlet in close proximity to the City of Riviera Beach, and the Port of Palm Beach. Locals take small boats, kayaks and rafts and float out to the park for picnics – and it can be super crowded on weekends. The real reason to visit this destination during a private yacht charter is the opportunity to snorkel around the island and the see the sea life. The list of creatures you can encounter is a long one – squid, rays, octopus, and thousands of brilliantly-colored tropical fish. If you’re lucky, you might even see a Florida manatee!
Tip: The best time for snorkeling is around high tide. The waters here are a bath-like 85 degrees well into September.
2. KEY LARGO
The further south you head in Florida, the warmer the water gets, even in winter. It’s the warmth, both air and sea that draws boaters to the Florida Keys. Many charter yacht vacations begin in Miami. Key Largo, about a 2-3 hour cruise from Miami, is often the first night’s destination. This island is a snorkeler’s dream – shallow coral reefs, tropical sea life, and oh yeah – really warm water!!! In the summer, the water temp can climb to nearly 90 degrees – ahhhh…
Tip: A snorkel outing to John Pennekamp Coral Reef (underwater) State Park is a must.
3. DRY TORTUGAS (Key West)
At the southernmost tip of the chain of islands that make up the Florida Keys, is the island of Key West. 70 miles to the west lies Dry Tortugas National Park. 100-square miles of mostly open water with seven small islands makes this a great snorkeling destination. Rarely crowded, its accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of the Civil War’s Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, and abundant coral reefs and marine life.
Tip: After snorkeling, take a tour of the old fort, hosted by National Park Rangers.
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Did we overlook your favorite snorkel site??? Tell us where you like to snorkel in South Florida, and what makes it special. As a thank you, we’ll send you an Eco-tote bag that you can use to carry your towels and your snorkel gear. Leave us a comment below, fill out our convenient online form, or email us at info@1800yachtcharters.com
We’ll see you below the waves…
This entry was posted in Destinations Good Times and tagged yacht charter Florida, Destinations, 1800yachtcharters, Snorkeling, Dive sites, National Parks, Florida Keys, Key West, marine life
Posted onTake an iconic former world-record holding yacht launched in the 80’s, add the allure of James Bond Agent #007, toss in wads of dough for refinements and upgrades, and the result is the spectacular, all-new Heesen motor yacht OCTOPUSSY.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters took advantage of an invitation to privately preview the “NEW” vessel near the owner’s winter home in Palm Beach, Florida, before the yacht enters the Bahamas yacht charter market.
“We received an invitation to see the yacht at the conclusion of a 7 million dollar refit,” beams Sheeder. “To be the first in the charter industry to see this yacht in person as it returns to the market is so exciting – we can’t wait to share our report and photos with our clients!”
Boarding to starboard, amidships and entering the interior passageway, visitors immediately catch a glimpse of the spectacular new décor by Jeff Lincoln of New York. Looking aft, the salon and dining area boast sumptuous fabrics and textures. Sheeder notes how the designer stayed true to a classic yachting theme. “The clean lines defined by white-on-navy color patterns add a great, crisp nautical flair, similar to the classic nautical clothing designs of Ralph Lauren. You know you’re in a yacht but you feel like you’re in a modern New York City apartment. I also love how the blue highlights allow the interior areas to melt into the exterior decks and the dark blue hull.”
As Sheeder continues her tour of the yacht, crew members point out the numerous highlights of the refit.
“You can tell every mechanical system and all interior surface areas – from the headliner to the flooring and wallcovering, and all of the furniture – have been renewed or replaced,” says Sheeder. Heesen yacht OCTOPUSSY further benefits from a remodeled stateroom plan – with a combination of Queen and Twin berths as well as two Pullman berths for small children.
Additional highlights of the refit include the addition of a new sundeck, including extension of the uppermost deck, complete with raised sunpads and Jacuzzi-style hot tub. “Adding the small sundeck with a hot tub is a great idea,” says Sheeder. “Clients love to spend a day swimming and exploring the James Bond Thunderball Grotto in the Exumas in the Bahamas. After a day at play, there’s nothing like soaking sore muscles in a ‘Jacuzzi’ as the sun sets over the ocean…”
Built by Dutch shipyard Heesen in 1988, this iconic yacht was true to the James Bond theme that underlines all of the famous films – whether a plane, car, or boat, it had to go FAST! When first launched, the 143 foot vessel set a world record as the fastest superyacht in the world, hitting a top speed of 53.17 knots. “The added renovations, and extensions have slowed her down a bit,” says Sheeder, “but not by much.” Currently, the yacht can cruise at 25 knots, with a top speed of 35 knots.
“The combination of speed in a setting of comfort and panache makes this an ideal yacht for exploring the Bahamas,” explains Sheeder. “Other yachts are stuck offering the traditional charter itinerary in the general area of Nassau, but this incredible yacht can get to remote islands far removed from the tourist areas. After all, the idea is to enjoy a private yacht charter vacation – and this yacht can certainly deliver on that promise.”
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Take the “James Bond Yacht Challenge” and win a prize!
Tell us the names of three 007–inspired yachts currently available for charter. These are yachts named after actual James Bond movies.
Need a hint? The yacht “Octopussy” is named after the 1983 film of the same name starring Roger Moore as James Bond. Now you only need to name two more!
Need another hint? Go to www.1800yachtcharters.com and use the SEARCH box in the top right corner of the homepage to search on names of James Bond movies.
Email the names of three charter yachts named after Bond 007 flicks to info@1800yachtcharters.com, and we’ll mail you a special gift!
[Note: actual spies and secret agents are not eligible to play! LOL!!!]
This entry was posted in News Yacht of the Week and tagged yacht charter Bahamas, Bahamas, James Bond, motoryacht charter, Destinations, fast superyacht, Heesen, Refit, Jana Sheeder
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