You’ve been looking forward to this day for months. You’re at the airport, and you are ready to board a flight that will take you to your rented yacht. You finally proceed to begin your Virgin Islands yacht charter vacation. As you pass through the new airport body scanner, it crosses your mind that you may be concerned about the radiation and what this exposure could mean for you.
Some researchers agree.
ARE AIRPORT BODY SCANNERS SAFE?
“We are very concerned about that being imposed on travelers,” says Dr. Robert Stroud, a professor of biophysics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). In a letter sent to the White House, Stroud and his researchers shared their concerns. “I don’t think we do know what risk we are taking. X-rays are intrinsically ionizing radiation. They damage human tissue,” says Stroud.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Government assure the public that passing through the body scanner is safe. A TSA spokesperson even stated, “We consider it a miniscule amount of radiation.”
SCIENTISTS DISAGREE
The scientists at UCSF believe that it is time for outside scientists to take a closer look at airport body scanners and their risk.
“I do think it is time for an independent investigation that really allows people to understand what the risk is that they take going through the scanner,” says Stroud.
“If you have a concern about the exposure to x-rays coming from the body scanner, simply opt for the pat down,” says Sheeder. “When you are on your way to enjoy a luxury yacht charter in the islands, the last thing you need is more travel-related stress!”
In January we informed our readers of a new Italian yacht tax signed into law in December 2011. The tax is effective May 1, 2012. It assesses a fee for each day a yacht is in service in Italian waters.
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Superyacht industry experts, like Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters, and others, urged Italian authorities to analyze the economic impact of the pending legislation.
“Our concern was the quest for increased tax revenue might have a far-reaching effect on both the charter industry. In addition, ancillary businesses that support yachting such as marinas, fuel brokers, shipyards, and tourism offices,” said Sheeder. “Even if you exclude charter revenues, support-related industries on their own generate €200,000,000 in annual revenue.”
To their credit – the Italian lawmakers listened.
AMENDMENT ON TAX
On Tuesday, February 21, the 10th Commission of the Italian Senate for Industry, Commerce, and Tourism passed the Grillo and Cutrufo amendment to the Italian berth tax legislation. The amendment stipulates the berthing tax will only be applied to Italian citizens who own a vessel, even if the yacht flies a foreign flag. Foreign citizens who own a boat or Mediterranean yacht charter vessel are exempt from this tax, regardless of their length of stay in Italian waters.
INDUSTRY COMMENTS
Fulvio Luise, President of Federagenti Yacht Division, expressed his satisfaction comments. “The passing of this amendment is an important recognition to the economic impact the yachting industry has in Italy and we look forward to welcoming new and returning megayacht clients to Italian waters this summer.”
Sheeder echoed Luise’s sentiments:
“This amendment will allow Italy to continue to compete on an equal playing field with neighboring countries for the charter sector of the Mediterranean yachting market. We’re hopeful that the Italian yacht charter market will continue to flourish for many more years.”
“I’m planning a 10 day private yacht charter in St. Tropez and the South of France in July. My broker say VAT is 20%. That’s seems a lot. Is there way to not pay this?” Xavier E, Barcelona, Spain
“The bad news, Xavier, is all charters that take place in a European Union (EU) country are subject to VAT (Value Added Tax). However, we have good news as well – there is a simple, legal strategy that can cut your VAT expense in half.
Instead of paying 20%, this strategy will reduce your VAT to 10% of your base charter fee – a significant savings!
Each EU country can set their own level of VAT on commercial yachts for hire. In France, if the yacht undertakes a coastal cruise in French territorial waters, the VAT is 20% of the base charter fee (the base fee is the cost to rent the yacht before factoring in other running expenses such as food, dockage, etc.). So, for example, if you began your charter in Saint Tropez, and cruised along the Côte d’Azur and concluded your trip in Antibes, you would incur a VAT expense of 20%.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT VAT
However, IF you plan a portion of your charter to cruise in international waters, your legal responsibility for VAT drops to 10% – a savings of 50%!
So how do you do this? Here’s how: When you are planning your itinerary with the yacht’s captain prior to the commencement of your charter, let the captain know that you would like to, “visit a port that requires you to cruise in international waters and beyond the coast of France.”
HOW CAN I SAVE TAX?
You could, for example, leave the French coast and cruise to the island of Sardinia. This is approximately a 5-7 hour cruise from the South of France.
SPECIAL TIP
Ask your captain to undertake this crossing overnight, while you and your guests are sleeping. Then, when you rise in the morning, you’ll be able to spend a full day, or longer along the coastline of this fabled Italian island before heading back to France.
So there you have it. With a little strategic planning, a slight deviation in your St Tropez yacht charter can result in big savings; possibly thousands of Euros depending upon the cost of your charter.”
ASK US A YACHT CHARTER QUESTION
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and 1-800 BAREBOAT
Have a question about a yacht charter vacation?
Submit your question to me, and my team will help you.
If we print your question in our blog, we’ll send you a complimentary Eco-tote bag.
Planning on walking the red carpet at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival? Or sitting front row at the 2016 Monaco Grand Prix? If you are, the owner of one of the world’s largest yachts for hire has put forth an enticing offer for participating and spectating at these fabled Côte d’Azur special events.
SUPERYACHT SPECIAL
The 72 meter super yacht AXIOMA has announced a 15% discount for any static, special event yacht charter booked by the end of 2015. That equates to a savings of €73,500 off the winter weekly rate of €490,000.
A Cannes Film Festival yacht charter is the ideal venue for both social gatherings and conducting business. Docking within feet of the entrance to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès is perfect. It is the primary building where films are screened. In addition, studio execs meet with prospective buyers here. Many attendees choose yachts to hold private business meetings in a more intimate setting. In the evenings, yachts often sponsor product-placement cocktail parties.
Just a few miles down the road, the principality of Monaco holds the annual Formula 1 race through the streets of Monte Carlo, and along the quay (docks) of the Port Hercules marina. A spectacular venue for watching one of the world’s most famous auto races, guests onboard yachts are just feet away from the action on the course.
The yacht is a 2013 build by Dunya Yachts. Interior design by Albert Pino. The 236 foot superyacht AXIOMA offers volume for hosting corporate events. The yacht boast six decks and more than 30,000 square meters of space. Amenities include a private outdoor cinema and lounge area, infinity swimming pool, and helipad. In 2014, the yacht received a World Superyacht Award for design excellence.
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.
COVID-19 GUIDELINES BELOW
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?
MUCH OF CARIBBEAN HAS TOUGH RESTRICTIONS
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.
BAHAMAS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.
Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.
GET TESTED BEFORE ARRIVAL
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.
SUBMIT A HEALTH VISA
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.
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.
TAKE A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST ON DAY 5
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.
SUBMIT A DAILY ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY
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.
FOLLOW ONSHORE SAFETY PROTOCOLS
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 BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS, RIGHT?
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.
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
Motor yacht JO, the 164-foot Benetti yacht charter vessel makes announcement. She plans to spend the winter season in the Caribbean.
AWARD-WINNING YACHT
Voted “Best Family Charter Yacht 2011“ by Superyacht World magazine. The 2004 Benetti motoryacht JO accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms.
CAPTAIN COMMENTS
Captain Ian Robertson reflects on this yacht. She is unique in the industry. For instance, the combination of a tranquil environment, and modern amenities.
“There is an atmosphere that radiates calmness, and you feel it from the moment you step aboard,” says Robertson. “The yacht as a whole is meticulously maintained, participating in two yard (maintenance) periods per year. Our owner understands the importance of updating tenders, watersports equipment, and the onboard entertainment equipment on a regular basis.”
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
“There are plenty of watertoys both for children and adults,” says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters. “The 12 crew members onboard motor yacht JO are among the best family-friendly professionals in the industry.”
FOODIE CELEBRATION
Foodies appreciate the talents of chef David Beltran. He cooks with both passion and flare. His signature dish is “Veal Zurich.” At mealtime, Beltran explains his menus to the guests. To make it fun, he speaks in rhyming couplets. He often interjects a few words in Italian, Spanish, German, and French!
SIMILAR SUPERYACHTS FOR RENT
There are similar yachts available for hire in the Caribbean. For example, 50 meter motor yacht WHEELS and 58 meter yacht SKYFALL. In addition, 45 meter motor yacht ILLUSION.
RATES
Rates for motor yacht JO range. They vary from $175,000 per week for non-premium periods to $225,000 per week for year-end holidays. Running expenses are extra.
After 30+ years in the business, 1-800 Yacht Charters is still doing the things that earned them the title of “World’s Best Private Cruise” as recognized by Forbes.com.
“We don’t charter yachts,” says Sheeder, “we deliver The Superyacht Experience™ to our clients.”
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and 1-800 BAREBOAT
Sheeder goes on to explain her company’s philosophy. “Our mission began with a simple question. ‘What would happen if we built our business for #generosity?’ Instead of assuming that people want to simply maximize self-interest, our decision to focus on generosity allowed us to cater to our clients’ deeper motivations to make the world a better place.”
“This focus has propelled us to move beyond the basic rental of yachts and to deliver a true Superyacht Experience. While our competitors focus on finding the customer the “right boat,” we choose to take a more holistic approach.”
HOW A YACHT CHARTER INQUIRY IS PROCESSED
When a #luxury yacht charter inquiry comes in, Sheeder and her team of consultants interview the potential clients to learn what makes them tick.
“Today’s affluent world travelers are looking for more than just a static vacation on a yacht, says Sheeder. “They’re wired, connected, and driven by sustainability and the greater social good.”
Furthermore, Sheeder says the clients hope to immerse themselves and participate in unique cultural events and #voluntourism. Their chartered yacht serves as a platform to an eco-friendly adventure. “It’s a chance to reconnect with family and friends, embrace diverse cultures, and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit,” says Sheeder. She chuckles and adds, “Besides, we often don’t even discuss particular yachts until our second or third conversation.”
SHEEDER CONTINUES
Sheeder admits some clients are puzzled at first. Most charter brokers immediately try to match the client to a particular yacht and crew. “At some point, they realize our entire focus is on them,” says Sheeder. “We share with them our sense of purpose, our commitment to promoting yachts and crews dedicated to protecting our environment, and how we created our business for generosity. Then, we explain our ‘Best Price Guarantee’ – something no other yacht charter brokerages offer in our industry.”
For Sheeder, focusing on generosity, sustainability, and taking the time to learn what motivates her clients is a recipe for success and fosters a deep sense of fulfillment. “We create a bond where we and the client work together [holding her hands together with fingers entwined] – synergistically – not only to create a special experience, but also to make a difference in the world.”
An association of charter brokers has announced an award to recognize luxury sailing charter vessels who adopt eco-friendly practices.
SAVE THE BLUE
The Charter Yacht Brokers Association International (CYBA) has launched the 2012 “Save the Blue”awards, as a continuation of the organization’s green initiative to reduce plastic water bottle waste by encouraging yachts to produce their own onboard purified drinking water.
YACHTS GO GREEN
Vessels available for charter can qualify for the award by meeting at least seven of the thirty criteria that CYBA has listed in an online survey. Many of the criteria are simple to implement and include green practices such as using biodegradable cleaners, buying sustainable seafood, and using recyclable shopping bags.
“By undertaking a few simple eco-friendly practices, the fleet of yachts for hire in the Caribbean can make a dramatic impact on the island environment. Our Team commends CYBA’s efforts.”
CYBA is hopeful these awards inspire others. For instance, captains, crews and owners. The association wants them to take more steps. In specific, to go green. Qualifying vessels are recognized at the upcoming charter industry winter shows in St. Thomas, Tortola, and Antigua.
Special mention will be given. Specifically, to the “Most Eco-friendly Sailing Yacht”
Catamaran Rafoly presents an exciting and fun yacht charter vacation option. The Blubay 92 catamaran will cruise the waters of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Mallorca has some of Europe’s finest championship golf courses. Mallorca is the largest of the Spanish.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
The yacht’s own golf pro helps guests select courses and make all arrangements during the 6 night charter, and the package includes 3 complimentary green fees.
In addition to the golf component of the trip, the package also includes airport transfers, all food and beverages (including ship’s bar), and use of the yachts onboard watersports inventory.
“Most golf-oriented vacations focus primarily on the golfer,” says Sheeder. “By adding a golf element to a yachting vacation, the non-golfers can have just as much fun as the golfers. We envision a group of 3 or 4 heading to the links, while others in the charter party go for an afternoon sail, or stop and anchor for a swim.”
Sheeder emphasizes that the location is what makes this package special. “The Balearics are to Spain what the Côte d’Azur is to France. There are numerous cafes, upscale boutiques, and nightclubs, and plenty of small coves where you can anchor and be away from the crowds.”
CATAMARAN RAFOLY OFFERS MULTIPLE COURSES
Golfers can hone their skills on any of 7 courses:
Launched in 2008, RAFOLY is a 92-foot luxury yacht charter catamaran, with accommodations for up to 8 passengers in 4 staterooms. She is a high class sail mega yacht, elegant and refined, and made for cruising with one’s friends and family on a vacation of a lifetime.
The requirement for cutting-edge watertoys onboard private yacht charter vessels is nothing new. There’s an ongoing battle between charter yacht owners to make sure their yacht has better toys than their competitor; hence the inclusion of jet packs, personal submarines, waterslides, and flying saucer-style waverunners.
PRESENTING THE WATER BIKE
now, a piece of exercise equipment found in nearly every superyacht gym – the stationary exercise bicycle – has crossed over to join the long list of “must-have” watertoys.
THE SCHILLER S1 – SOCIALLY-RESPONSIBLE TOY
Engineered for the water, the Schiller S1 water bike merges modern design, technology, and engineering, to deliver a stationary workout bicycle in an aquatic environment. Why stay cooped-up in a yacht’s gym, riding a stationary bike, when you can do your biking outdoors, on the water?
Fans of television’s, “The Amazing Race” on CBS, saw the Schiller S1 in action in the season premiere, as contestants peddled from Marina del Rey to Burton Chase Park in Los Angeles, California.
HOW DOES THE S1 WORK?
Upon first glance, the S1 looks large and bulky, until you realize the pontoons that keep it afloat and provide stability are inflatable. In fact, the unit folds down to 3 cubic feet and only weighs 60 pounds – compact and light enough for any deckhand to carry and place the S1 near the swim platform for the use of the charter guests.
A drive train attached to the pedals connects to a small propeller. The company reports a good rider can achieve a speed of 5 miles per hour.
“We’re committed to increasing the eco-friendly yachting options we can offer our clients,” says Sheeder. “So many travelers are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint both at home and while on vacation.” Sheeder continues, “The Schiller S1 waterbike is quiet, sustainable, and human-powered. It’s part of a new generation of watertoys that merge the pleasures of a yachting vacation with the responsibilities of protecting our marine environment.”
SHE CONTINUES
Sheeder concludes with a smile,
“…and as we saw on the season premiere of The Amazing Race, it’s a lot of fun!”
A SOCIALLY-RESPONSIBLE GREEN VACATION
Enjoy the ultimate green vacation on a fully-crewed Virgin Islands catamaran yacht charter this winter. Catamaran sailboats are roomy, stable, loaded with watertoys. They also utilize the clean energy of the wind to cruise through the water.
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