We’ve all seen the images. They include a silhouette of a sailing yacht. Also nearby is a secluded beach. The sun is setting in the background of all photos. Massive superyachts are docked side-by-side in a marina along the Côte d’Azur. Imagine you and your family inserted in the yachting images. Enjoy la belle vie.
CAN I AFFORD A PRIVATE YACHT CHARTER?
Is it realistic to think you can afford a holiday at sea on a private yacht?
WHAT IS A YACHT CHARTER ALL ABOUT?
To answer that question, let’s start with understanding exactly what a yacht charter is all about.
WHAT Is A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
You’ve stayed at a resort. You have enjoyed the premise of a yachting vacation on a crewed yacht. From accommodations, to meals, activities and amenities, you have it all. Everything you and your family need are available in one location. The biggest difference is next. Your location “moves” when you charter a yacht!
EXAMPLES OF CHARTER DETAILS
Take, for example, a Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel. Other travelers stay ashore and see the same view from their hotel window. Each day you can wake up and experience a new location. Your yacht cruises from island to island. Forget a virtual online slideshow. This is the real deal!
While onboard, you’ll be pampered by a crew of trained professionals – from a captain to navigate, to a host/hostess to serve you, and a chef to prepare your meals. The actual number of crew depends on the size of the yacht you charter and the level of service you request.
Just like the resort, the yacht offers accommodations, areas to relax and socialize, and a wide variety of recreational toys to enjoy – like snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards. The larger yachts offer a wider variety of toys and amenities, including wave runners, cinema rooms, exercise equipment – even ondeck Jacuzzi spas.
There is one more distinguishing difference when compared to a resort. It is completely private. Only you, your family/friends, and professional crew are onboard.
WHERE Are Luxury Yacht Charter Vacations Offered?
Again, the comparison to seaside resorts best illustrates the locations available for enjoying a yachting holiday – if it’s on the ocean, chances are there are yachts in the area available for hire!
Here’s a partial list of the most popular destinations for chartering a crewed yacht:
Caribbean – the islands of the Caribbean are popular in the winter and spring months, with sailing yachts heavily congregates in the breezy Virgin Islands, and larger motoryachts based in the celebrity-popular cosmopolitan areas like St. Martin and St Barths.
Mediterranean – the summer playground for Europeans, charter yachts can be found throughout the Greek islands, as well as along the Italian and French Riviera. In recent years, new cruising grounds in the Med have become increasingly popular, such as the Spanish Balearic Islands and Croatia.
Florida and the Bahamas – unlike Europeans who often take long, multi-week vacations, Americans take shorter holidays, often for no more than a long weekend. Staying closer to home becomes important when travel days are limited, so the idea of a Florida yacht charter escape is very popular, with the nearby Bahamas a strong option as well.
HOW Can I Afford A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
If you guessed that we would once again go back and look at a resort for the answer – you’re right!
The price options for enjoying a crewed yacht directly compare to the prices of staying at a resort. Basic resorts in popular destinations can be very affordable for a family vacation, and so too can be the cost of a private yacht charter. Conversely, ultra exclusive resorts in posh settings charge premium rates – as do the most luxurious private yachts.
To put this into realistic perspective, here’s a sample of yachts and their prices:
SAILBOAT – sail yacht MORE MAGIC is a 68 foot Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel with accommodations for up to 6 guests in 3 staterooms. Her all-inclusive charter rates start at $18,000 per week
MOTORYACHT – the 80 foot motor yacht JODI LEE offers both Bahamas and Florida yacht charter vacations for up to 6 passengers. Here base rate is $26,000 per week, plus a little extra to cover food, fuel, and dockage.
SUPERYACHT – up to 12 affluent travelers can explore the Mediterranean onboard the 2017 Amels yacht HERE COMES THE SUN, a 272 foot yacht with a crew of 25. Her weekly rate is Euro €1,200,000 with additional fees for food, fuel, and dockage.
WHO Do I Call To Plan A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
The owners of charter yachts rely on a network of professional yacht charter brokers. Importantly, as a go-between. In specific, for owners and yacht charter seekers. Our company, 1-800 Yacht Charters, delivers The Superyacht Experience™ to clients. Important to note, for over 30 years. In addition, Forbes recognizes us as Best Private Cruise.” We maintain a database of more than 500 crewed charter yachts worldwide.
ONLY 1-800 Yacht Charters offers an industry first, Best Price Guarantee and makes a donation to your preferred charity, in your name, when you make your reservation. We promote reusable water bottles and eco-tote bags for your use. Specifically for your return home. This way, you protect the oceans and the environment.
Arranging your luxury yacht charter vacation is an honor for us. Please call us toll-free in North America (+1.800.922.4824) or locally and internationally (+1.305.253.7245), or go to our convenient booking/contact form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/
For those who wish to take a Virgin Islands Yacht Charter vacation this year, Lady Sheila may just be the yacht for you.
WHO IS SHE?
This yacht is one of the newest luxury motor yachts in the renowned Benetti yacht charter fleet. She is 44.20 meters (145’) in length and can comfortably accommodate up to 12 yacht charter guests in her five luxurious staterooms.
HER INTERIOR
Lady Sheila’s main saloon has a uniquely chic wooden floor finish with both light and dark wooden strips laid out from port to starboard. The soft furnishings of her large lounge suites include orange cushions which give life to the elegant white interiors.
There is a big hurdle for large families and groups. These people seek to enjoy a private yacht charter vacation in Malta. The hurdle is partially lifted by the yachting registration authorities in Malta.
Specifically, late December, 2016, Transport Malta made a change. They are the administrative authority that oversees regulations for yachts flying the flag of Malta. They introduced new guidelines for private yachts. In addition, the rule applies to yachts carrying more than 12 guests.
RESTRICTIONS IN MALTA
This issue is long a stumbling block to the charter industry. Most private charter vessels are restricted to carrying no more than 12 passengers. Moreover, even if enough cabins were available to accommodate more than 12 guests. Yacht owners who wanted to bypass this restriction had problems. They were forced to build their vessels to standards established for commercial ships and cruise liners. This added enormous costs to the project. Most yacht owners elected to avoid the extra costs and burdensome regulations. They build luxury charter vessels for 12 or fewer guests.
Maltese authorities saw an opportunity to reduce restrictions on private yachts built to high safety standards, and to allow these safe, well-built and professionally-operated vessels to carry more than 12 passengers. Ivan Sammut, registrar general for the Maltese flag, explain how Malta saw a gap in the market. “You have to evolve to stay relevant in this marketplace,” states Sammut. “Malta hopes to be more than just a European flagging alternative; we have a holistic view of the superyacht market and want to become a turnkey destination for private and commercial superyachts alike.”
NEW CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES
The new certification summary is in the “Guidelines for Pleasure Yachts Carriage Capacities.” It is part of an ongoing Maltese initiative to introduce contemporary standards. Specifically, in the area of private yachting. To qualify, a superyacht seeking to register in Malta and fly the Maltese flag.
Must be over 24 meters.
Not navigate beyond 150nm (nautical miles) from safe haven.
Be in class and in possession of the necessary stability booklet.
Comply with the Maltese Commercial Yacht Code.
Comply with all applicable international conventions.
Carry requisite safety equipment based on the number of persons on board.
Maintain a crew compliment in line with the commercial yacht code.
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, views the new regulations as long overdue. “It’s discouraging to turn away a large, extended families of 13 or more from their dream of enjoying the superyacht experience together on one yacht. We anticipate many superyacht owners with vessels that feature cabins and capacity for more than 12 guests to register their yachts in Malta. This is one more contemporary component in the growth of our private luxury yacht charter industry, and we hope other flagging authorities will follow Malta’s lead.”
Presenting superyacht Allure. She is a 67 meter (220 foot) luxury motor yacht available for those thinking of taking a Greece Yacht Charter vacation this year. You may choose to rent this private yacht and charter it to provide you with a mother ship with additional specialized water toys, as well as a helicopter deck.
ACCOMMODATIONS
She accommodates up to twelve guests comfortably in six (6) luxury cabins. What makes them luxurious? For instance, these guest staterooms have ample space, and each comes with its own private balcony.
SPECIAL FEATURE
The yacht interior offers large large oval windows on the main and sky lounge decks through which to enjoy amazing ocean views.
In January, 2014, we alerted our clients to new rules. These rules regard a VAT increase imposed on Croatia yacht charter rentals. The government increased the VAT rate from 10 % to 13%. This was to combat the country’s economic woes.
We, therefore, focused on saving money for clients. We encourag our clients to commence their charters in nearby Montenegro. They could then cruise into Croatian waters, tax-free.
In spite of this, good things sometimes come to an end…
Effective this month, new regulations take effect. These eliminate the loophole that allowed tax-free cruising in Croatia.
WHAT’S NEW
This February, the Croatian Ministry of Maritime Affairs made an announcement. The regulations that govern the Croatia yacht charter market were amended to, “…bring the regulations in line with other European Union Member States.” The main change was, therefore, the imposition of VAT on charters starting outside of Croatia.
As succinctly explained by 1-800 Yacht Charters company President, Jana Sheeder,
“As of May 1st, 2018, charters commencing outside Croatia that then cruise into Croatia, will now have to pay 13% VAT on the time spent in Croatian waters.”
The new regulations are not retroactive. Thus, any charters booked prior to the regulation change are exempt.
OTHER CHANGES
On a positive note, other regulation changes designed to encourage an increase in yacht charter Croatia activity will also go into effect. The government has lifted the restriction that banned non-European Union charter yachts under 40 meters from chartering in Croatia. As explained by Rory Jackson of SuperyachtNews, “These restrictions, which prohibited non-EU commercial vessels under 40m chartering in Croatia, had been implemented to bolster the domestic market. However, they proved to be more costly than beneficial.”
Non EU flagged yachts under 40 meters will need to secure a charter license to operate in Croatia. The license will be required even if the charter starts outside Croatia.
The Washington Redskins are currently 3-1 and in 1st place in the NFC East Division, heading into week 5 of the NFL regular season. What better way for team owner Dan Snyder to celebrate the squad’s early season success than to purchase a 224-foot superyacht?
Dan Snyder, Washington Redskins owner, buys yacht
AMELS SUPERYACHT LADY ANNE
The Washington Post recently reported Snyder’s recent purchase, Amels motor yacht LADY ANNE, one of the 100 largest yachts in the world. Snyder purchased the Mediterranean yacht charter vessel with a group of investors for approximately the same price that he’ll spend on two-thirds of his Redskins payroll for the year (or, as one sports journalist described it, “…the yacht cost $30 million less than it took to secure the rights to Albert Haynesworth in free agency!”).
YACHT PRICE
Motor yacht LADY ANNE was listed for sale at $86 million when it went on the market earlier this year, but sold for considerably less (sources estimate the price at or near $70 million – about one half of the cost to build the vessel).
YACHT BUILD
The yacht was custom-made by Dutch shipbuilders Amels for Jerome Fisher in 2006 and named after his wife. Fisher co-founded the shoe company Nine West and sold his interest to Jones Apparel Group for $885 million in 1999. The couple lived the grand life in Palm Beach until 2008, when, according to the New York Post, they lost $150 million in the Bernie Madoff investment scandal.
WHO OWNED LADY ANNE?
The Fishers, who spent last month cruising on the LADY ANNE off the coast of France, did not respond to requests for comment about the sale.
JANA SHEEDER, COMPANY PRESIDENT, COMMENTS
Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters reports. No expense was spared on what is regarded as one of the finest yachts afloat.
“The owners were intimately involved in every aspect of the yacht’s design…from period furnishings to modern pieces. The yacht has the unique feel of an early 20th century ocean liner.” The massive yacht boasts vast shaded outdoor areas, together with a large pool and sunbathing space. Indoors, there is a comprehensively-equipped gym, massage area, sauna, and home theater.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The yacht accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms with ensuite Jacuzzi bathrooms. The master suite is a self-contained apartment with his and her bathrooms. These baths featuring rare, pure white Thassos marble. It also has a private study and adjacent VIP cabin.
According to Sheeder, there is no need to be an NFL team owner, or a fan of the Redskins to spend time aboard this yacht.
Sheeder teases,
“While we might offer a discount to fans of my hometown team, the Miami Dolphins, we will happily charter LADY ANNE to anyone who loves spending private time with their family and friends.”
YACHT CALENDAR AND RATES
LADY ANNE is available for hire this winter in the Caribbean at a rate of $497,000 per week for year-end (Christmas/New Year’s Eve) charters, and $476,000 per week for all other weeks. The yacht returns to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2012 and is available at a rate of €497,000 per week for July, August, and special events (like the Monaco Grand Prix) and €476,000 per week for all other weeks. Food, drinks, fuel and dockage are extra expenses.
RENT A YACHT
Other yachts built by Amels and available for hire include motor yacht IMAGINE, motor yacht SPIRIT, and motor yacht Bel Abri. For more information, contact Jana Sheeder at 305-720-7245 or 1-800-YACHTCHARTERS (that’s 800-922-4824).
The owner of mega yacht ODYSSEY has relocated this Mediterranean yacht charter vessel to attend events in Monaco and the South of France.
At last, MIPIM yacht and Monaco Grand Prix yacht charter enthusiasts have another superyacht for their consideration.
The 38m super yacht ODYSSEY is now based in San Remo, Italy.
Her new close proximity to Monaco makes this one of the largest yachts available for Monaco Grand Prix charters, as well as static event charters in Cannes, France, such as the 2010 MIPIM.
Built in 2008 by Italy’s Rodriquez yard, she sleeps up to 11 guests in five cabins and has proven her worth as a Mediterranean yacht charter megayacht.
Asking 11 million Euros, superyacht ODYSSEY is now available for inspection by prior appointment for both sale and charter.
The 6th edition of the Perini Navi Cup has concluded. Once again, several Perini Navi yacht charter boats have participated. They made a strong showing. Perini Navi NEVER disappoints.
There were multiple PN yachts in attendance as spectator yachts. For instance, motor yacht EXUMA. sailing yacht FIDELIS, and sail yacht MELEK.
THE PERINI NAVI CUP
This year’s race 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 wonderful. After which, social gatherings and nightly soirees occurred. Lastlly, a gala dinner with entertainment by Andrea Bocelli in conclusion.
WHO IS PERINI NAVI?
Italy’s Perini Navi shipyard is renowned for the massive dimensions of the yachts they produce. In addition, their commitment to cutting edge technology and luxurious finishes. They are unrivaled as charter yachts in terms of deck space and interior amenities.
UPDATE! Sailing yacht SALPERTON IV renamed PALMIRA, and had full refit in 2017.
Built by Fitzroy Yachts, the sailing superyacht Salperton IV has recently been launched. Salperton IV is 45 meters in length. In addition, she is the latest superyacht to be built by Fitzroy Yachts of New Zealand. This yacht is one meter longer than Salperton III.
Fingers are crossed that the Mediterranean yacht charter fleet will soon welcome yacht Salperton IV to the family. Earlier incarnations of Salperton have spent years delivering mega yacht charter holidays to customers around the world. Two of the earlier vessels are still available for sail boat charters under the current names of Northern Spirit (37 meters) and Drumbeat (53 meters).
Sail boat charters are extremely popular in the Caribbean, and all eyes are upon this latest incarnation. The superyacht cost an estimated $30 million. She is 215 tons, took two years to build, and is the eighth megayacht that Fitzroy has built in the past 12 years.
Accommodations include four en suite state rooms and three crew cabins. For extra luxury, she also has a gym and a spa pool.
260,000 hours have gone into the construction of the (hopefully soon-to-be) luxury sailing charter vessel. She has many features. For instance, she is fully air-conditioned, has her own sewage treatment station, and can make 15 tons of water per day. Additionally, she carries 30 tons of fuel, and has a 850-horsepower Cat engine, in case there is no wind.
It is the second yacht the company has built for British owner, Barry Houghton. The earlier Salperton III was launched in 2007, the company’s 10th anniversary, and won two international awards the next year. The design concept for number IV was for a yacht which sails and performs even better than number III.
As with number III, Adam Lay Studio came back to create the yacht’s interior design work.
It has been reported that the yacht departed New Zealand today, with her owner onboard, for a three month Pacific cruise. The sailing yacht will then cruise the Caribbean, before heading up in the Mediterranean in the summer of 2010.
Our team is constantly looking for ways to improve The Superyacht Experience.™ Silent running yachts are a futuristic dream. On some superyachts, we’ve added the latest Molton Brown and Jo Malone personal care products to the staterooms and ensuite bathrooms. Other yachts now have expanded, large swim platforms. They have also converted the aft watertoy garages into contemporary “beach clubs” with lounge and spa facilities.
WHAT IF…?
But what if the next revolution to the experience was more sensory in nature and less tactile? Maybe the future will bring something that envelops the yacht with a calming, quiet sensation.
THE SUPERYACHT EXPERIENCE™
Maybe the future is already upon us…and the next revolution to The Superyacht Experience™ is the 262 foot hybrid yacht ARTEFACT.
The brand new megayacht was built in Germany in a shipyard on Eider River in Rendsburg. Nobiskrug yacht ARTEFACT has been deemed, “Our coolest project ever!” by her designer, Gregory Marshall.
SHHHH…
So what makes this superyacht revolutionary? The answer: SILENCE…
The yacht was built to operate in near-silent conditions. She draws energy from 248 feet of solar panels on her sundeck. A huge array of batteries store the solar-generated power. These batteries also allow her to operate for short periods without the need of combustion engines.
GOING GREEN
In addition to the overall sense of calm, onboard guests can feel good. They know their yacht serves as an eco-friendly platform to a unique experience at sea. First, running on hybrid power means less harmful emission into the atmosphere. Second, silent running yacht, of course. Third, Marshall designed the yacht with a variable-speed Azipod-propulsion and dynamic-positioning system. This allows the yacht to hover near or over fragile reefs without the need to drop a damaging anchor into the water.
YET MORE GREEN TECHNOLOGY
One last nod to green-design technology. Many of the yacht’s technical systems operate on recycled, filtered wastewater.
This new superyacht is one of the first to meet the stringent Tier III emissions regulations. These are by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
One day soon, we hope all luxury yacht charter guests can add “noise-free” to the checklist of their own superyacht experience…
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
Recent Comments