Recently, fitness expert Jillian Michaels took to social media. This to recount what she described as a disastrous Italy private luxury yacht charter vacation. (No, it was not our charter.) She detailed arriving to find the yacht, “…not only filthy, but it had no hot water, no air con when not docked, no wifi, partial electricity, it was clearly in total disrepair.” Via Facebook, the fitness guru warned her social media followers to beware of online scams. “These scams are becoming extremely prevalent…so be careful when you are dealing with rentals of any kind,” she wrote.
Michaels’ online posts were picked up by mainstream media. Television’s syndicated newsmagazine, “Inside Edition” even cover it.
Michaels’ comments lead us to two points:
*Was this a scam? In our opinion – NO.
*Could more have been done to avoid what the press has coined as a “Vacation from Hell?” ABSOLUTELY!!!!!!
“I’m confident this is not scam,” states yacht charter maven Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. Hers is a company that specializes in discreet private luxury yacht charter vacations for celebrities and UHNW.
“While we were not involved in Ms. Michael’s charter, the client did use a professional charter broker from a well-known company – a competitor of ours with lots of experience and a solid standing in our industry.”
In fact, that charter broker’s actions were scrutinized by the Ethics Committee of the Charter Yacht Brokers Association. The Committee unanimously found the broker acted in good faith and did not commit any ethics violations.
Clearly, however, something went awry for the charter to end after just 4 days of an expected 12 day trip. Exactly what happened is still not clear. Both sides are pointing the finger at each other. Michaels feels she was duped. The charter brokerage asserts Michaels was in violation of her charter agreement.
If the yacht was, as Michaels asserts, “…in disrepair,” it needs addressing. The question that must be asked is, what more can a prospective yacht charter customer do to ensure the yacht is fully operational and what we refer to in the industry as, “charter ready?”
Sheeder suggests two easy steps.
First, ASK FOR A CHECKLIST. This list attests all electrical and mechanical components required for a successful charter are fully-operational. “We have a simple checklist similar to a pre-flight checklist used by a pilot to make sure a plane is safe and ready for takeoff,” says Sheeder. “In essence, we are directly asking the Captain of the yacht prior to the execution of the charter agreement to confirm the yacht is in Bristol (clean) condition, that the watertoys (waverunners, tender, etc.) are fully-operational, the yacht’s generators and central air conditioning system are working correctly, etc. We even directly ask if there are any foul odors emanating from the toilets and bilges, or fumes from the engine room.”
Sheeder reviews the checklist results. She informs the client of any issues. She confirms the timeframe required to make any necessary repairs.
“If we, together with the client, are not completely comfortable with the situation or the crew’s ability to guarantee an exceptional private yacht charter experience, we move on and look for another yacht.”
Sheeder revisits the checklist with the captain three or four days prior to the charter to see if any last minute problems have occurred. “Yachts are complex, mechanical vessels with many moving parts that can develop problems – just like an automobile. Many problems are eliminated or minimized by ongoing maintenance, but sometimes, things break unexpectedly. By checking prior to the charter, we can inform the client of the situation as well as estimate the time it will take to make the needed repairs. Most situations are minor and the charter can proceed with no unexpected ‘surprises’ for the client and their guests.”
Second, REQUEST REALTIME VIDEO/CURRENT PHOTOS.
Many charter brochures feature beautiful photos or videos of the charter yacht. But do the photos contain dates? Is the video current? How do you know?
Sheeder suggests using current technology apps to make certain what you see is what you get. “We try to personally inspect the yachts we recommend to our clients, but a lot can change from the time we saw the yacht at a boat show or a private viewing, and the time the client charters the vessel,” says Sheeder. “We have our online charter brochures date coded in our computer. If the images are old, we reach out to the yacht owner and his management team and request current photos. Even casual videos shot on cellphones can capture the overall condition of the boat, and most crews are eager to show their vessel in the best possible light.” Ask questions. We are at your service.
Sheeder also recommends apps like Apple’s FaceTime for iPhones, and Facebook Messenger and Google Duo for Android phones.
“Short of the client’s inspecting the yacht themselves, there’s nothing better than a live video feed, with a real-time conversation with the crew, as they walk through and film the yacht and the client watches live.”
So you are considering a private luxury yacht charter for your next vacation. First, probe beyond the tantalizing online yacht brochure. Second, ask your broker if they use a pre-charter checklist. Third, ask them to provide current photos or real-time streaming video of the yacht in its current condition. If they do not or cannot, beware. Consider hiring a broker who can go the extra step to protect your vacation investment. Take these simple steps prior to arriving for your charter. You greatly minimize the chances of anything less than a memorable holiday at sea.
Winter is just around the corner. In addition to getting away, take advantage of pre-season specials on yachts. Those based in the sunny Bahamas, South Florida, and the Caribbean are ideal for your tropical sojourn. Your private yacht charter holiday is only a phone call away.
In conclusion, call 1-800 YACHT CHARTERS [toll-free north America +1.800.922.4824 or international +1.305.253.7245] for more information, or email info@1800yachtcharters.com We are eager to plan The Superyacht Experience for you.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Frequently Asked Questions Educational and tagged scam or not, iPhone, Questions to ask, Jillian Michaels, Does your charter broker, scam, Real-time conversation about charteryacht, yacht charter scams, condition of yacht, vacation from hell, yacht holiday, yacht charter ethics, Jana Sheeder, facetime, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, google duo, yacht charter specials, android, celebrity, live video streaming, Facebook
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More news from High Power III. She has been continually in the news since her late 2011 launch. She now offers yacht charter incentives. The yacht has gained notice for her award-winning chef, Heather Kaniuk. In addition, her unique and elegant wellness spa deck received notice.
Now comes word the Caribbean yacht charter vessel hopes to lure more US-dollar business, by combining a rate reduction with complimentary extra charter days.
Effective immediately – for each week of charter booked, the customer will receive an additional 2 FREE DAYS OF CHARTER. Thus, charterers can pay for 7 days and receive two more complimentary days onboard Rossi Navi luxury motor yacht HIGH POWER III (ex-Numptia).
In addition to the free days, the yacht has has another special. She converted her rates. In specific, from 490,000 EUROS per week to 490,000 US DOLLARS per week. The effect of the foreign currency conversion results in a real dollar savings of $144,000 per week. This is the equivalent of a 23% price break. All rates are plus running expenses.
“This foreign currency conversion will have a special appeal to our US-based clients who have seen the value of the dollar pale in comparison to the Euro for the past 8 years,” says yacht maven Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters. “Not only does this mitigate the loss of purchasing power of the foreign currency translation, but it provides a significant incentive to book this yacht at a deeply-discounted price.”
The Italian-built superyacht accommodates 12 guests. Onboard amenities include an elevator between all decks, fireplace, super inflatable slide, and a massive 3D big screen TV. High Power III’s unique spa deck offers a fully-equipped gym, steam room, sauna, beauty salon, and massage room, plus forward exterior bar & dining areas on the spa deck to create the ultimate at-sea oasis.
Come enjoy a wellness vacation aboard motor yacht HIGH POWER III. For reservations, contact 1-800 Yacht Charters at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/explore-our-yachts/high-power-iii/book-now/.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Special Offers Yacht of the Week and tagged Numptia, elegant spa deck, private luxury yacht charter, Jana Sheeder, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, yacht charter specials, High Power III, luxury yacht charter maven, yacht charter discount
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The 56 meter Turkish gulet yacht REGINA makes an announcement. In specific, she offers a special rate for select dates this December.
She offers full-week Caribbean yacht charter vacations between December 11 and December 25. Her weekly base rate is reduced to $80,000. Specifically, that is a savings of $10,000.
007 movie enthusiasts remember the 183 foot Pruva sailing yacht REGINA. She stars in an appearance in the James Bond 007 thriller, “Skyfall.” In the film, she is “Chimera.”
The modern Turkish sailing yacht accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms.
In conclusion, looking for a great deal on your next yacht charter vacation? Check out our current money-saving private luxury yacht charter specials!!!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations Special Offers Educational and tagged yacht charter specials, holiday special rate, Regina, Skyfall, Chimera, sailboat yacht charter, sailing yacht, Daniel Craig, James Bond, sail yacht charter, Turkish gulet, sailboat charter, 007
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Yacht charter special! Sailboat MATELOT has a 20% discount for June, 2011 bookings.
The 80′ sailing yacht MATELOT joins the Croatia yacht charter fleet. She is offering a €5,000 discount for all weekly rentals for June. Charters must be confirmed between now and April 30, 2011. The yacht’s regular weekly rate is € 25,000. This rate is plus all running expenses. The yacht was built in 2005 and refit in 2010. She is is in like new condition. She spent the winter in the shipyard in New Zealand.
She has Italian styling by Nauta Design. Her architecture is by Farr Yacht Design. The yacht is a Southern Wind 80. She offers 3 comfortable guest staterooms. Matelot is the ultimate in performance sailing.
The yacht has a full beam master stateroom. This room is located forward of the panoramic deck salon. The stateroom features a walkaround king bed. Additionally, it has a settee and vanity writing desk. It features an ensuite bath with stall shower.
She has 2 identical guest cabins amidships. They are aft of the salon. Each similarly has twin lower single beds and ensuite heads. The heads have stall showers.
Crew quarters and galley are fully aft with separate companionway.
Veteran British crew are Captain Angus Fuller and Chef Jessie Fuller. They have several charter season experience in Croatia and the Adriatic. They are joined by an additional crewmember.
Mrs. Seven joins MATELOT in offering discounted charters. She is a 30 meter vessel for 8 guests. This yacht gives a 33% discount off high-season rates for sailing vacations in Croatia. The special is for now through May 15, 2011.
This entry was posted in News Yacht of the Week and tagged yacht charter croatia, Mrs. Seven, Matelot, Nauta Design, sailing yacht, sailing yacht charters, Croatia yacht charter, discount, yacht charter specials, sailboat yacht charter
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Motor yacht SEAGULL II (54 meters / 12 guests) – from now until August 25th, this incredible Croatia yacht charter vessel is offering 9 days for the price of 7 – € 105,000 (save over 20%).
Motor yacht IONIAN PRINCESS (45.73 meters / 12 guests) – when it comes to memorable Greece yacht charters, this vessel is your home away from home. The yacht has a gap from August 15th to September 2nd for any charters between Athens, the Ionian Islands, Croatia and Venice. The longer you go, the greater your savings:
14 days – € 225,000 (30% discount)
10 days – € 185,000 (19% discount)
7 days – € 140,000 (12.5% discount)
Motor yacht MOONMAIDEN II (39 meters / 10 guests) – this classic yacht is available for the gap from now until August 18th (in the South of France / Corsica) at € 35,000 per week (regular rate € 56,000 per week – a savings of nearly 40%). After September 14th, the yacht is available at a discount of 50% off the low season rates. Pay just € 26,000 per week for any charter moving in the direction of Sicily, north towards the South of France.
Motor yacht ASHA (28 meters / 8 guests) – splash into summer savings onboard this sexy, modern yacht. Available in the Western Mediterranean, any August (high season) charters will be priced at low season rates. Asha’s charter rate WAS €47,000 per week…NOW €40,000 per week
Prices include yacht and crew. Meals, bar, dockage, fuel, and other running expenses are additional. Taxes may be extra, depending upon the yacht and the point of embarkation.
Take advantage of these and many more last minute specials. Contact our destination specialists HERE and ask for the best available rates for your preferred travel dates!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Special Events and tagged summer savings, Croatia yacht charter, Seagull II, yacht charter specials, Asha, Moonmaiden II
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A weak US dollar could keep summer tourists away. Superyacht owners of charterboats in the Mediterranean are offering deep discounts.
Yacht owners offer 10% to 25% discounts on weekly rentals in June. Hopes are that price beaks will lure charterers to the med. Specifically, the Côte d’Azur and Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
Check out these great June summer-savers:
Take advantage of these and other super summer rates in Europe, the Bahamas, and even New England, USA. Contact our destination experts HERE to book right now.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Special Offers and tagged discounted yachts, reduced prices, sail on sale, Heesen, yacht charter specials, JEMS, yacht owners, Victoria Del Mar, travel discounts, discounted travel
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While it is fairly common to see superyachts offer reduced rates for low-season private luxury yacht charters, it is rare when a 47 meter yacht announces reduced rates for the highly-sought summer dates of July and August.
Of course, when such an opportunity presents itself, we want our clients to be the very first to know!
The 154 foot motor yacht ORIENT STAR is offering a 15% discount for any July and August bookings reserved by March 10, 2017. The discount applies to charters of one week or longer. In terms of savings, a Greece yacht charter vacation onboard CMB Yachts ORIENT STAR will cost €153,000 per week, versus the published rate of €180,000 per week. Running expenses, VAT, and optional gratuity are additional.
Read through this entire blog, then when you get to the bottom, you’ll discover a special bonus offer, just for Charterers who reserve this, or any other yacht, through 1-800 Yacht Charters!!!
Truly spectacular yacht, super yacht ORIENT STAR was built by CMB Yachts and radiates volume, comfort and style. Greece is primarily available in the most popular summer charter destination. Moreover, the yacht owner will also consider charter inquiries for neighboring Turkey.
Luxury accommodations for 10 guests include a master suite on the main deck, with a study (private office) area, walk-in wardrobe and a spacious en suite bathroom. Below deck there are 2 twin cabins, as well as 2 double staterooms.
This amazing yacht and her professional crew will offer you an unparalleled superyacht experience, in the birthplace of civilization – Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations Special Offers and tagged Eastern med, yacht charter Greece, Korres skincare, greece yacht charter, gift with booking, award-winning, special rate, specials, yacht charter specials, special offer, motoryacht, Eastern Mediterranean, Orient Star, motoryacht charter, Allure magazine, Awards
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The summer is heating up. In addition, special discounted rates are available throughout the 1-800 Yacht Charters global charter fleet.
Whatever your destination and desire – from spending sunny days exploring St. Tropez and the French Riviera; enjoying lobster bakes in traditional New England fashion; or enjoying water sports in the beautiful Bahamas, it’s not too late to book your dream holiday!
The Western Mediterranean is a summer playground for yacht enthusiasts. The heart of the Côte d’Azur remains the tiny principality of Monaco. From here, famous ports like Portofino, Cannes, and St Tropez are within a few hours by yacht. From its Michelin-star restaurants, hot clubs, and haute couture to the natural beauty of stunning coastlines and pristine beaches, the Western Mediterranean offers so much to explore.
Book the 197-foot (60.05 meter) Abeking & Rasmussen motor yacht DREAM in the months of August and September and receive a 10% rate reduction for charters of two weeks or more (her August rate is €350,000 per week and the September rate is €330,000 per week). DREAM is available in both East and West Med. This chic and stylish superyacht offers a Zen-like atmosphere and a variety of tenders and water toys for guests to enjoy. [maximum 12 guests]
If sailing is your thing, the 185-foot (56.4 meter) Alloy Yachts luxury sail yacht MONDANGO 3 is offering exceptional pricing throughout the summer in both the Eastern and Western Med. Reserve one week and receive a rate of €190,400 (a 15% discount on the charter rate); sail for two weeks and you’ll get a whopping 20%. Better yet –make this the sailing odyssey of a lifetime and book for three weeks for an incredible 25% discount! [max 10 guests]
Other Western Mediterranean Yacht Charter Specials:
The turquoise waters of the Adriatic are the perfect backdrop for a private yacht charter holiday in the Eastern Mediterranean. From the stunning scenery of Montenegro to the vibrant culture of Greece, you’ll be spoiled for choices when deciding on an itinerary.
Score a 15% discount on the impressive 139-foot (42.6 meter) CRN Ancona motor yacht EMOTION. Available in the Adriatic, EMOTION is well-suited for any type of guest. She features a variety of water toys, including Seabobs, wave runners, a jet board, and so many more. She is offering a special rate of €112,000 per week for the remainder of June. [maximum 11 guests]
Explore the ancient wonders of Greece onboard the 163-foot (49.9m) Benetti luxury yacht ALEXANDRA at the special price of €150,000 per week for the month of June (regular rate €161,000 per week). This stylish motor yacht has a variety of impressive amenities and accommodations. [maximum 12 guests]
The Adriatic can be your playground this June if you book a week on board the 147-foot (45 meter) Viudes Yachts motor yacht PRIDE at the special rate of €130,000 per week (regular rate €160,000 per week). Launched in 2013, PRIDE offers impressive interior volume and vast decks for alfresco living.
Living in North America and thinking about staying a bit closer to home this summer? We’ve got you covered! Warm, salty breezes and beautiful sunny days are on the agenda during your New England summer escape. Cruise from the bustling metropolis of Boston, to the luxury haven of the Hamptons, to the natural sanctuary of Maine. For a more traditional itinerary, kick off your adventure in Newport, Rhode Island and explore Martha’s Vineyard and the tiny fishing villages near Nantucket and Cape Cod.
The 157-foot (47.8 meter) luxury motor yacht COCKTAILS is available for $150,000 per week all summer (regular rate $185,000 per week). Built by Trinity Yachts, yacht COCKTAILS features an array of impressive amenities, including a nine-foot projection screen for al fresco movie nights, a karaoke machine in the skylounge, and a variety of water toys. Her exceptional crew is ready to deliver a memorable New England adventure for you and your family. [maximum 11 guests]
Another Trinity Yacht offering a great summer rate is the fast and fun 161-foot (49.07 meter) super yacht ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM. She’s priced at an introductory charter rate of $165,000 per week (regular rate after the summer will be $180,000 per week). Captain Mike Finnegan and his professional crew provide you with five-star service as you cruise the beautiful coastline of New England and enjoy all it has to offer. [maximum 10 guests]
The 150-foot (45.72m) Delta luxury superyacht KATYA is offering a discounted rate of $150,000 per week throughout the summer (regular rate $170,000 per week). Enjoy the cool breezes of the New England coast make good use of her expansive sundeck, featuring Jacuzzi tub and barbecue. An impressive onboard toy chest includes two tenders and a variety of water sports equipment. [maximum 12 guests]
OK, you want to stay close to the USA, but you want to feel the vibe of an island escape. For you, the best destination is the Bahamas. It is home to multiple things. For instance, beautiful islands, atolls and cays, and some of the clearest ocean waters on earth. The Bahamas are less than 1 hour by plane from South Florida. They are not only easily accessible, but they also offer a unique and laid back island vibe. In specific, they are perfectly suited for a summer holiday.
If you hurry and book by July 31, you can experience the Bahamas onboard the 164-foot (49.99 meter) Trinity superyacht AMARULA SUN and save 15% (regular rate $230,000 per week, now on special for $195,000 per week). This impressive superyacht offers five-star service and deluxe amenities. For example, a large swim platform and a sundeck with open-air Jacuzzi. In addition, a baby grand concert piano and a cozy fireplace exist in the skylounge.
Looking for a more intimate yacht? Book a week in the Bahamas onboard the 123-foot (37.49 meter) motor yacht TEMPTATION and enjoy a special rate of $60,000 per week through August 31 (regular rate $70,000 per week). Built by Palmer Johnson in 2005 and refit in 2015, she offers a fully-stocked toy chest, including 36-foot center console Yellowfin tender, a 15-foot wide-body Novurania RIB, two deluxe wave runners, paddleboards, wakeboard, water skis for children, and many more toys.
For more information on these sizzling summer deals, call 305-720-7245, email info@1800yachtcharters.com, or use our convenient online inquiry form here.
This entry was posted in News Special Offers and tagged Dream, Viudes Yachts, Monaco, Zen, Monaco yacht charter, Kanaloa, Amarula Sun, Emotion, yacht charter Greece, Alexandra, Abeking & Rasmussen, Hana, cocktails, Zoom Zoom Zoom, yacht charter Bahamas, specials, Katya, Western Mediterranean, yacht charter specials, Temptation, Eastern Mediterranean, Benetti, CRN Ancona, Alloy Yachts, Mondango 3, Pride, New England yacht charters
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