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.
A new, higher VAT (Value Added Tax) rate went into effect. All charters that commenced after July 20, 2015 in Greek waters are subject to the tax.
Greek yacht charter vessel at anchor
LEGISLATION
The new legislation raised the overall VAT from 13% to 23%. Specifically, lower rates apply to certain charters, based upon the duration of the hire.
There are two VAT categories for charters lasting 3 days or longer:
Category I – vessels licensed to perform international cruises: 9.2% (previously 5.2%).
Category II – vessels licensed to perform long range cruises within Greek waters: 11.5% (previously 6.5%).
SHORT-TERM CHARTER APPLICABILITY
For charters up to 48 hours, there are no discounted rates. Full VAT of 23% is due (previously 13%).
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, points out the new VAT rates affect ALL charters taking place after July 20, 2015 – even if the charter agreements were signed in prior months. “With the current economic crisis in Greece, we’ve been anticipating some form of VAT austerity,” says Sheeder. “With each charter agreement we prepare, we add a clause indicating that the charterer is responsible for any increase in VAT – this way, there are no surprises. The more details we cover with our clients, the smoother their Superyacht Experience will be.“
QUESTIONS FOR VISITORS
How will the increase in VAT on private luxury yacht charter vacations in Greece effect the number of yacht charters?
Will clients seek alternate destinations or, “grin and bear it” to enjoy a Greek yachting holiday?
FREE GIFT WITH YOUR ANSWER
Let us know your thoughts. We will share your comments with our readers AND send you a free complimentary Eco-tote bag! Email your comments (and your mailing address!) to info@1800yachtcharters.com
Looking for a last minute European getaway before the kids head back to school? If you are, one of the most popular Mediterranean yacht charter vessels is offering a deep discount to woo your interest.
From August 15th, motor yacht CLOUD 9 is offering 14 days for the price of 12 – a savings of over €100,000. To further entice you, the yacht will waive all delivery fees for a cruise in Croatia and/or Greece.
Stylish and exceptionally comfortable with 5-star cuisine, CMN line 60 yacht CLOUD 9boasts a huge Owner’s suite, a VIP stateroom with a balcony, as well as a gymnasium and plenty of watertoys.
Oh – we almost forgot, the yacht just installed a brand new waterslide!
Scottish-born Captain, Colin Boyle, has created a special, scenic sample itinerary for a charter commencing in Split and concluding 14 nights later in Zante! Take a look at the first three days of this Eastern Mediterranean adventure:
DAY 1 – SPLIT Join CLOUD 9 in Split – a 20 minute drive from the international airport. Immediate departure for a nearby anchorage to swim and relax. Remain at anchor overnight.
DAY 2 – HVAR Hvar – truly one of the highlights of Croatia. The city has an extraordinary history and a great social atmosphere. The tiny harbor fills quickly with anchored yachts and we must arrive at noon. We’ll dinghy our guests ashore where they will find vineyards, lavender fields, walks and clean beaches. For the evening, Hvar offers great cafes and restaurants – and the best in Croatian wine. The bars and cafes remain open late into the night.
DAY 3 – KORCULA Depart Hvar for a passage to Korcula, the home of Marco Polo. Once at anchor, the protected bay is the perfect place for a day of watersports and swimming. After dinner, we’ll dinghy ashore to walk the ancient streets to window shop and listen to the street musicians.
DAY 4 – MLJET NATIONAL PARK
An early morning passage brings us to the Mljet National park, a peaceful, and beautiful anchorage. Here, we’ll find steep, rocky slopes covered with dense pine forests that hide a 12th century monastery built on a small island in the middle of a lake. That’s right, an island on an island! The lake is generally 4 degrees warmer than the sea, and a good place to swim. Hiking, guided tours and bike rentals are also available.
All that in the first 4 days – imagine what adventures might be in store for the next 10 days???!
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER CROATIA
Would you like to charter this gorgeous lady? Contact 1-800 Yacht Charters at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ right away!
The island of Cyprus continues to gain popularity as a yacht charter destination. Karpaz Gate Marina (KGM) is a new luxury marina in northern Cyprus. It is scheduled to open in early June, 2011.
SEA-ALLIANCE GROUP
Sea-Alliance Group is the marina’s management team. They have announced there will be visiting yachts participating in the Eastern Mediterranean Yacht Rally (EMYR).
EMYR
EMYR is an annual event. It attracts 55 to 60 sailing yachts. They travel around major ports of call in the Eastern Mediterranean.
THE MARINA
Yacht owners and sailing yacht customers will be the first visitors to use the marina. It is 90% complete at this time. Crew and guests will enjoy exclusive access to the facilities at KGM. Berthing will be free of charge. The marina is planning an evening of entertainment, including a welcoming party with local dignitaries.
Karpaz Gate Marina is the first luxury marina built in Cyprus, and a component of the new Karpaz Bay Resort (KBR). Located on the stunning Karpaz Peninsula in the north-eastern tip of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Karpaz Gate Marina has 300 berths, including 12 berths for superyachts up to a maximum of 55 metres in length.
SHORT-TERM AVAILABILITY
KGM should become an attractive destination for day and weekend trips, and where both large and small boats, and long- and short-term visitors, will be equally welcome. The management team has recently announced the opening of a beach club, scheduled to open in late 2011.
MARINA FEATURES
The resort will also include a children’s playground, a gym, restaurants, hotel, and a food and provisioning market. Onsite services will include a yacht brokerage, ship chandlery, sailing school, and a SCUBA diving center.
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER
To charter a yacht in the Eastern Mediterranean, contact our destination experts HERE.
The ancient city of Istanbul will play host to the seventh annual World Superyacht Awards
at the luxurious Ciragan Palace Kempinski on 5 May, 2012.
Çiragan Palace Kempinski – Istanbul
THE OSCARS
Combining a glittering awards ceremony with a gala dinner/dance, the Awards , often dubbed the “Oscars” of the superyacht industry, will be attended by an elite guest list of megayacht owners from around the globe.
WHICH YACHTS STEAL THE SHOW?
While the nominations include private yachts as well as charter vessels, it’s the newest and largest yachts for hire that seem to steal the show each year. Some of the winners at the six annual installment in London, May 7, 2011 include, for example
SYCARA V
BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT – 1,300 GT to 2,999 GT
Winner: SYCARA V
BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT – 500 GT to 1,299 GT
Winner: MARY-JEAN II
BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT under 500 GT
Winner: EXUMA
Judges’ Commendation: BIG FISH
THREE DECK SEMI-DISPLACEMENT OR PLANING MOTOR YACHT
Winner: CALLIOPE
MORE WINNERS
MOTOR YACHT OF THE YEAR
Joint Winners: Eclipse and EXUMA
THE SAILBOATS
BEST SAILING YACHT – 45 meters and up Winner is Zefira
Judges’ Special Award goes to ATLANTIC KOKOMO also receives Judges’ Special Award
Commendation by Judges goes to TWIZZLE
BEST SAILING YACHT – 30 meters to 44.99 meters
Winner is IMAGINE
WHERE IS ISTANBUL
Straddling the Bosphorus Strait separating Europe and Asia, Istanbul embodies the best of both cultures. The city has been the capital of three empires, each leaving a heritage of amazing architecture and monuments.
THE PALACE
Once an Ottoman palace, the Çiragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is located on the European shores of the Bosphorus. It has spectacular views over the strait. The palace is a 5-star resort. It is a registered member of The Leading Hotels of the World. Its 313 luxurious rooms include 20 suites in the hotel. In addition, 11 suites in the historical palace.
She concludes her first Mediterranean yacht charter season with grace. The 58.4 meter mega yacht KOKOMO won the International Superyacht Society (ISS) 2010 Award. In specific, for Best Sailing Yacht over 40 meters. The 2010 award ceremony held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
DESIGN
She has a beautiful jet black hull. In addition, her stark white superstructure is striking. Kokomo has simple lines and sleekness.
REDMAN WHITELEY DIXON
The modern, clean look is enhanced with extensive natural designs. For example, teak decks, carbon fiber trims, silver transom graphics, and cove stripe. Redman Whiteley Dixon designed a contemporary interior. It includes strong, rectangular themes running through the joinery and into the hardware and fittings. These linear shapes use light-colored eco-teak veneers with the grain running horizontally.
INTERNATIONAL SUPERYACHT SOCIETY (ISS)
The International Superyacht Society is the sole organization serving and representing the large yacht industry worldwide. Society membership is awarded to individuals and companies recognized for leadership and dedication. Specifically, to raising the standards of design construction, maintenance, repair and operation of large yachts. Yes, 1-800 Yacht Charters is an esteemed member. (big smile)
SUMMARY
In conclusion, looking for a charter boat in the Eastern Mediterranean? KOKOMO will be available summer 2011 in multiple locations. For instance, Croatia, Montenegro, or Turkey.
Croatia yacht charters are in for change. In November, the Croatian government voted on a fiscal consolidation package to reduce the country’s deficit. One of the measures included an increased intermediate Value Added Tax (VAT, or PDV, as it is called in Croatia) rate from 10% to 13%.
TRAVELER ADVISORY
Travelers experiencing a yacht charter vacation in Croatia know this increase. Costs passed from yacht owner to the charterer expected.
“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.”
DALMATIAN ISLANDS
Trips to the Dalmatian Islands in Croatia now challenge locations in Italy and France as the most popular Mediterranean yacht charter destination. Environment protection is critical in these national parklands.
HOW ARE THE CROATIAN ISLANDS?
They are wild and mostly uninhabited. Additionally, they offer a varied and diverse cruising ground for sail boat charters.
MUST SEE STOPS IN CROATIA
There are many “must-see” itinerary stops in Croatia. For instance, Kornati National Park, The Town of Split (a UNESCO City), The Islands of Hvar, Brac, and Vis, and Trogir, a World Heritage Organization City. Lastly, Plitvice Lakes National Park (photo above).
German grad student, Stefanie Behringer, is getting notice. Stefanie designed a hybrid propulsion trimaran motorboat. It is powered by diesel and electric jet skis. Behringer’s creation, if it makes it off the drawing board, would be the ultimate James Bond boat. The sleek, futuristic design is a real head-turner! The green-designed vessel is simple and efficient. A jet ski attaches to each side of the hull. While the jet skis are electric-powered, the 49 foot yacht is also powered by two Audi turbo-charged diesel engines. Audi’s concept design team assisted Behringer on the project.
SPEED AND PERFORMANCE
The motoryacht is designed to cruise above 20 knots, with a top end of nearly 30 knots. The vessel can be operated using just the jet skis for a 100-horsepower emission-free cruise. At high speeds, the diesel engines will kick in as well as recharge the jet skis’ batteries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Twelve passengers can move about comfortably on the deck, designed to feel like a lounge. A tinted glass panel above will shieldpassengers from the wind and sun.
LAUNCH DATE FOR BOND BOAT
Alas, don’t expect to see this vessel pop up anytime soon in theMediterranean yacht charter market. Audi has not announced any plans to move the multi-hulled motoryacht beyond the concept phase. Still, innovative designs like this bode well for the future of the yachting industry and talented young designers like Stefanie Behringer.
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER
Why wait for the future? Contact 1-800 Yacht Charters HERE and ask to arrange a charter on a yacht committed to reduced emissions and sustainable operations.
Planning a luxury sailing charter?, Or a week cruising on a motoryacht? Sardinia is truly a cruising paradise. Specifically, with crystal clear waters and quiet anchorages.
Today, we take a look at the island, itself. We surely recommend top four things to do in Sardinia.
VISIT THE TOWN
1. Visit BOSA. Away from the coast, much of the countryside is mountainous. It has innumerable charming villages and hotels. In addition, restaurants and incredible views. Along the coast, however, is a special small town worth a visit. It is Bosa. This 12th century town is situated on the west coast. Specifically, north of Oristano, in a valley on the Temo. It is the only navigable river in Sardinia.
The city is overlooked by the Castello Malaspina. The castle dates to 1112. To the south of the Castle, specifically on the north bank next to the bridge, is the Bosa Cathedral. This structure is from the fifteenth century. Inside is a splendid interior of marble statues. Additionally, nineteenth century frescos. The nearby Bosa Marina Beach is regularly voted the cleanest beach in Italy.
Travel Tip
Are you arriving via a luxury mega yacht charter vessel? If so, the Bosa Marina is just 2 kilometers from the town of Bosa. The marina accommodates yachts up to 50 meters. Most of the slips are for smaller yachts. For this reason, call in advance to secure a reservation. Especially during peak summer periods.
RIDE THE TRAIN
2. Ride the TRENINO VERDE. In the summer, the Trenino Verde tourist train runs from Palau. Further, south through the mountains. It is a beautiful route. For example, it meanders its way slowly through the hills. It is a way to see the interior of Sardinia. One of the stops is the small village of Sant’Antonio di Gallura. It is a true farming village on a hillside. Finally overlooking the Diga Liscia lake. The old center of the village is charming. It groups around the piazza and church of Sant’Antonio. The town has few visitors in the summer. However, it is a typical Gallurese working village. If you prefer to be surrounded by local residents rather than other tourists, this is the place for you.
Travel Tip
Stop by the Capichera winery. Pick up several bottles of their famous Classico white wines. These wines feature dry, rounded and mouthfilling flavors of juicy, aromatic fruit. In addition, a long, lingering finish, rich in tangy minerals.
SEE THE BEEHIVES
3. See the NURAGHI. They look like man-made beehives. The Nuraghi are stone dwellings dating back to the bronze age. They only exist on Sardinia. The exact use of these structures remains unknown. Scientists speculate they were possibly used as religious temples. On the other hand, possibly as military strongholds. There are over 6000 of these stones on the island. The most famous Nuraghe is Nuraxi su Barumini. In specific, it is designated a World Heritage Siteby UNESCO. Barumini is located at approximately 60 kilometers north of Cagliari. This is the capital of Sardinia.
EXPLORE THE PARK
4. Explore PARCO NAZIONALE dell’ ARCIPELAGO di MADDALENA. La Maddalenais a national park located in the north of Sardinia. On clear days, you can see the coastline of the French island of Corsica. Moreover, from the most northern island of La Maddalena, Isola Razzoli. Luxury sailing charter guests love this destination as most of the islands in this archipelago can only be reached by boat. Here, visitors glimpse unspoilt nature and stunning views. In addition, the kindness of friendly, local residents.
Travel tip – hire a local guide for a hiking excursion. A handful of residents trained and licensed are environmental hiking guides leading hiking tours of the islands. Scuba is another popular adventure in the archipelago and several dive operators have shops on La Maddalena including Area 11 Diverand Scuba Point.
Dazzling beaches, clear water, ancient fortress cities, and modern port towns make Sardinia a “must” stopover for any Western Mediterranean yachting vacation.
WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR SARDINIA?
Help us round out our list from a “Top four” to a “Top five” review. In specific, of the best Sardinia has to offer. Tell us your favorite thing to do there! Contact the 1-800 YACHT CHARTERS destination team with your travel tips for sightseeing in Sardinia.
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.
WHO IS YACHT KISMET OWNER?
Khan is an avid yachtsman and owner of the NFL Jacksonville Jaguars.
WHO RECEIVES COVID-19 DONATION MONEY?
The gifts will be distributed to multiple groups, such as
Florida’s First Coast Relief Fund – $400,000
Feeding Northeast Florida – $75,000
Clara White Mission supporting the homeless in Jacksonville – $75,000
Jacksonville Public Education Fund – $50,000
American Red Cross / Jacksonville chapter – $50,000
STATEMENT ON JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS SITE
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.
YACHT KISMET DETAILS
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.
WHAT IS SUMMER 2020 DESTINATION?
Multiple islands in the Eastern and Western Med. For example,
Albania
Balearic Islands
Canary Islands
Catalonia
Corsica
Costa del Sol
Croatia
Cyprus
French Riviera & Monaco … in addition,
Greece – Aegean/Cyclades Sea, Ionian Sea
Italy – North (mainland), Sardinia, Sicily, South (mainland)
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.
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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
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