YVC 2-2.indd - gemsres.com
Transcription
YVC 2-2.indd - gemsres.com
THE T O N LY R LIFESTYLE A V E L MAGAZINE D E D I C AT E D TO www.YachtChartersMagazine.com YA C H T VA C AT I O N S VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2 2005 Pure Excellence M/Y Jasmin, an expedition-style vessel specifically designed for charter with luxurious, elegant comfort BONUS!INSIDE: JET LIFESTYLE SECTION CARIBBEAN St. Vincent & The Grenadines CROATIA SPECIAL FEATURE: RESTORATIONS LUXURY GOODS Baggage Excess The Dalmation Coast LUXURY CARS THE RIVIERA SHOW PREVIEW The Myth & Reality of St. Tropez A KIRCAALI MEDIA PUBLICATION PLUS 2005 Bentley 2005 Monaco Yacht Show SS Delphine... Charter a Piece of History Restored to Her Former Glory 2 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 3 t a b l e o f c o n t e n t s 22 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2 2005 f e a t u r e s 10 The Scent of Pure Excellence M/Y Jasmin, an expedition-style vessel specifically designed for charter with luxurious, elegant comfort Of how many vessels in the world, when first you see them, can you 28 A Step Back in Time The unspoiled islands of the Mergui Archipelago Imagine a charter destination that has more than eight hundred tropical islands spread over fourteen thousand square miles of Indian Ocean. truly say that you were awestruck? Quietly, but conclusively. Awestruck. 16 She’s a Lady A classic steam yacht gets restored to her former glory Originally launched by the Dodge family in 1921, SS Delphine is now grander and more sophisticated than ever, 32 Shark Diving The ultimate in private yachting adventure We’ll take you inside the luxury world of cage diving with Great White sharks and show you how to plan your personal National Geographic-style adventure in comfort aboard your own private yacht. having incorporated every amenity today’s charter guests desire. 22 All Decked Out The five-deck, 280ft Annaliesse has raised the bar in yacht charter Purely for Pleasure The myth and reality of St. Tropez Even if you’ve never been to St. Tropez, you’ve probably already seen the famous clock tower and the multi-million dollar yachts berthed shoulder to shoulder at the quayside. You’ve probably also heard talk Lavish accommodations, state-of-the-art communications, of the boutiques, luxury hotels, restaurants and bars bursting with and plenty of space for entertaining provide guests celebrities; all glitz and high-living. Certainly everyone has formed with the perfect mix of business and pleasure. 4 36 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 an impression before they arrive. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM around the world in 80 ways ® YACHT BROKERAGE | NEW CONSTRUCTION | LUXURY YACHT VACATIONS | CHARTER MARKETING the yachting professionals it’s no wonder you feel in your element Both the human body and the earth’s surface are approximately 70% water. We are perfectly attuned to water’s amazing properties of serenity and contentment. For the ultimate experience, call The Sacks Group Yachting Professionals. We represent the world’s finest charter yachts, offering exceptional crew and five-star service in premiere destinations! Put your next vacation or corporate getaway in the hands of our Charter Professionals. Call today for your copy of our “2005 Charter Fleet Directory”. www.sacksyachts.com 1600 SE 17th Street • Suite 418 • Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316 9 5 4 . 7 6 4 . 7 7 4 2 • fax 954.523.3769 • info@sacksyachts.com VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 5 t a b l e 40 o f c o n t e n t s 52 64 22 57 c o l u m n s 40 44 48 52 56 58 60 62 94 Croatia: The Dalmation Coast d e p a r t m e n t s 8 Unspoiled islands of the Med Caribbean: St. Vincent and the Grenadines 9 Don’t miss this spectacular part of the Caribbean Designer Profile: The Value of Professional Guidance YV&C speaks with renowned yacht designer Ward Setzer Yacht Show: Simply the Best in the Big Boat Business 64 66 The Monaco Yacht Show will thrill you with super yachts and a jet set ambiance to match Company Profile: Classically Stylish and Etnerally Chic Camper & Nicholsons International luxury yachting vacations have it all Fractional Ownership: Follow the Sun 68 74 Owning a piece of a yacht guarantees a warm escape all year long Luxury Goods: Baggage Excess These bags have character, consider taking one on your next charter! Cruising Cigar Man: Travel Humidors 88 Recommended Yacht Charter Brokers Recommended Air Charter Companies Editorial Megayachts, Sharks, and Blue Marble Luxury Goods 2005 Bentley aRnage R Yacht Profile Galaxy Travel Log Just Add Water! Food & Wine The Fish That Laid the Golden Eggs Event Photo Albums Newport Yacht Management 90 Genoa Yacht Charter Meeting Safe Harbor for your cigars Show Recap: Newport Yacht Management Charter Show special:private jet charters & travel 78 When You’re Ready to Fly Privately 84 The Essential Addition to a Yachter’s Agenda 6 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM RECOMMENDED YACHT & AIR CHARTER BROKERS Alpha Yachting offers crewed yacht charters in Greece, Croatia, Italy, France, Turkey, Spain and the Mediterranean sea. We are proud to offer a wide selection of luxury charter yachts for hire in Greece (group and private charter) to meet all your needs. All our yachts are clean, fully equipped and well maintained, our crew members are polite and can help you with all your travel needs, charter a crewed mega motor yacht, motor sailer, sailing yacht, skippered sail boat, bareboat, catamaran and set sail from Athens Greece to the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, Rhodes, Crete, Zakynthos, enjoy your sailing holiday cruises in Greece. Alpha Yachting Greece is managed by Manos Komninos, an established Naval Architect with over 20 years experience, who is not only a Yacht Broker, but who can suggest the ideal yacht for your vacation in Greece. Contact: Manos Kominos +30-210-968 0486 info@alphayachting.com | www.alphayachting.com Angela Connery Yacht Charters ACYC offers you the finest selection in both sail and motor yachts with full crew on a worldwide basis. If you’re looking for that special charter vacation experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories - let Angela Connery Yacht Charters help you with the details of your plans. Contact: Angela Connery 877 741-4448 acyc@comcast.net | http://www.acyachtcharters.com Bartram & Brakenhoff philosophy has been to provide unequaled integrity and service to the yachtsman who is interested in unique, high quality yachts. Their willingness to be a consultant and assist its clients in obtaining their yachting requirements in all areas is one of their strongest attributes. This concept has been successfully practiced throughout Bartram & Brakenhoff’s history and will continue to be the mainstay of their operation. Today they are considered to be a leader in the worldwide brokerage industry. Their firm specializes in the marketing, sales, donation, and charter of high quality and high caliber sailing, power, and luxury yachts, both new and used. Bartram & Brakenhoff prides its reputation as being one of the most well-respected and ethical companies amongst our peers in both the brokerage community and with new construction yards worldwide. Due to its locations, they are ideally situated to provide the highest level of service year round. Contact: Pila Pexton 401 862-1977 pila@bartbrak.com | http://www.bartbrak.com Beka Cornish Yachting Thinking about taking a luxury yachting vacation? Before embarking on your search for the perfect yacht, it is important to decide what type of ‘on the water’ experience you are looking for. In the ever growing charter yacht section of our web site, we offer our visitors the choice between sail and motor yachts of all sizes. If you have not chartered before we can help you decide which type of luxury yacht best meets your needs. If you cannot find what you are looking for, just let us know your requirements, and we will do the searching for you. Contact: Sid Cornish +34 971213073 sid@beka-cornish.com | www.beka-cornish.com Blue Water Yacht Charters was established in 1983. With over 20 years experience in bareboat and crewed yacht charter and management, we are uniquely qualified to assist in the planning of the best vacation you ever had. Our high percentage of repeat clients speak for themselves. Discretion and confidentiality are guaranteed. CYBA Contact: Karin Garrett 800 732-7245 yachts@bluewateryachtcharters.com | http://bluewateryachtcharters.com Camper & Nicholsons International manages more large yachts for charter than any other agent. The Camper & Nicholsons International team prides itself in providing the best inside knowledge on boats, destinations, and all travel arrangements. Visit cnconnect.com for photos and details of boats and destinations and call us for a tailored proposal. Contact: 561 655 2121 info@media.cnyachts.com | http://www.cnconnect.com Charter Brokers of Alaska Custom Charters... First class yacht and sportsfishing voyages in pristine Southeast Alaska and Inside Passage waters. Wildlife viewing, sightseeing and fishing with captains with a wealth of local knowledge and experience. Crewed or “Skippered Bareboat ” adventures on one of our fleet of well appointed vessels - motoryacht or sail. We can tie your charter in with hunting trips, visits to Denali, remote lodges and other magnificent places. Contact: 1-888-530-2628 info@charterbrokersofalaska.com | http://www.charterbrokersofalaska.com Delta Air Elite Fleet Membership. Fleet Charter. Fleet Management. Delta AirElite offers a portfolio of helpful services for those who utilize and own business jets. Whether you prefer on-demand charter services, require guaranteed availability on a particular aircraft, or need a worry-free management solution for your own jet, Delta AirElite has the infrastructure, resources, and know-how to make the business jet experience a simple one. Contact: 800-927-0927 Contact@AirElite.com | www.airelite.com Dream Sailing specializes in luxury, crewed sailing yachts from 55ft. based in St. Tropez, France and the British Virgin Islands. We offer a warm welcome and the opportunity to taste the glamorous and exciting world of yachting on an affordable scale. DreamCatcher is our flagship; other yachts are also available. Contact: Michelle Blore + 33 6 64 03 70 20 info@dreamsailing.co.uk | http://www.dreamsailing.co.uk 8 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Executive Jet Management /NetJets Executive Jet Management’s charter services team is dedicated to providing you with the attention you deserve and the responsiveness you demand. A fleet of over 80 aircraft across the United States, convenience and comfort, safety and security, ultra-personalized service and professionalism - air travel on your own terms. Executive Jet Management is a NetJets company with 40 years of aviation expertise. (A Berkshire Hathaway company) Contact: Jeff Cropper 877 356-5387 fly@ejmjets.com | http://www.ejmjets.com Golden Yachts offers a fleet of seven luxurious motor yachts, including the 83m mega yacht m/y O’MEGA. Experience combined with concentration to the finest details, along with highly trained crew is what has made Golden Yachts a leader in the yacht charter market throughout the East and West Mediterranean. Contact: Iro Orri +30 210 967-3203 contact@goldenyachts.gr | http://www.goldenyachts.gr Jet Aviation Business Jets a division of the Jet Aviation Group of Companies, provides private jet charter services. Worldwide, Jet Aviation is the largest international provider of executive aircraft charter services and offers a variety of services to corporations and individuals. Three international coordination centers in Zurich, Switzerland, Teterboro, New Jersey and Hong Kong, China arrange all planning and reservation needs 24 hours a day. Contact: +1 800 736 8538 charter_usa@jetaviation.com| http://www.jetaviation.com Marcrista offers luxury cruising and relaxed sailing to remote pristine reefs and tropical island destinations. Your fully crewed charter on Marcrista is personalised and can include attention to your special interests – sailing, snorkelling, diving, adventure cruises, romantic honeymoons, game fishing, marine photography, marine biology, seabird life, isolated reefs, frontier wilderness locations, pristine sand cays, lush tropical rainforested islands, coastal rainforests, the south pacific’s best reefs, historical cultural aboriginal tours, outback wild life and fishing safaris. Contact: Mobile 0418 339 753 sail@marcrista.com.au | http://www.marcrista.com.au MLW Aviation The Ultimate B757 Now Available for Charter - Dallas Love Field Request Charter Quote or Contact your preferred charter broker. Contact: info@N801DM.com Ocean Charters yacht accommodations are standard to five star deluxe. Boats and yachts range in size from 35 feet to 200 feet, power or sail. This is the secret alternative to the cruise! Crewed yachts provide vacations and a price range to fit each and every budget. We personalize itineraries allowing the client to pick and choose their stops. A crewed charter at any level allows for relaxation, basking in the sun or cruising from island to island with the highest level of personal service a vacation can offer. Contact: Susan Wallace Whiteman 800 922-4833 susan@oceancharters.com | http://www.oceancharters.com Ocean Cruise large yachts since 1985. Luxury Yachts Worldwide Partners for a Yachting Life. Charter services: more than 300 yachts worldwide, mostly personally inspected by us; cruising areas worldwide; selection of the most suitable yacht and crew; preparation of contracts; stakeholders of your payments; meticulous charter preparation (special requests, transfers, etc.); stringent check of yacht chartered and performance check. Contact: Capt. Rags Wheldon 954 524-9366 usa@ocyachts.com | http://www.ocyachts.com Ocean Yachts is for all of you dreaming of a private cruise on a unique, and crafted sailing yacht. The Ocean VIP Club has the perfect answer. Their team’s care and superb service along with a fleet of new Ocean Star 51.2 (51ft.) and Ocean Star 56.1(56ft.) “Elegance”, equipped with many extras, will make your wishes come true. Contact: +30 210 9855518 info@ocean-yachts.com | http://www.ocean-yachts.com Paradise Yacht Charter specializes in locating private yachts for both corporate and personal entertaining throughout the world. We spend weeks every year traveling throughout the world inspecting these yachts, meeting their crews and making sure that they meet our standards for luxury yacht chartering. Whatever power yacht or sailing yacht you choose and wherever you choose to charter - you can be assured that we have seen the yachts we are recommending - and are not just working from a picture book! Our experience and personal service will insure we find the perfect yacht for your “Charter in Paradise” Contact: Rebecca Riley pycmail@bellsouth.net | http://www.paradiseyachtcharters.com Peter Insull Yacht Marketing ensures that you have none of the cares yet all the pleasure that comes with cruising on the world’s finest yachts. The success of a charter depends upon matching the right yacht, the right crew and the right cruising area to the differing requirements of individual clients. With many years’ experience in the chartering of large yachts we are uniquely placed to help you with every detail, from on-board entertainment and leisure facilities, food and drink, to help and advise on co-ordinating flights and transfers and the planning of your cruising itinerary. There is simply no substitute for experience. Contact: Fiona Maureso +33 (0)4 9334 4455 charter@insull.com http://www.insull.com SeaDream Yacht Club Twin, luxury megayachts, SeaDream I & II rated by Conde Nast readers as best at sea for Service and Cuisine. The award winning yachts accommodate up to 55 couples for special events such as incentives, meetings, family reunions, birthdays or anniversaries in the Caribbean, Mayan Riviera or Mediterranean! Contact: Bob Lepisto 305 631-6100 info@seadreamyachtclub.com | http://www.seadreamcharter.com South Seas International Yacht Broker In pochi anni e con l’aiuto di preziosi collaboratori ne fa una delle società più quotate in Italia. Oggi l’ufficio, situato alle spalle di uno dei più antichi borghi marinari del Mediterraneo, può far fronte ad un vasto mercato, la società, infatti, si avvale della competenza e della professionalità che i titolari, Danilo e Davide del Tufo, hanno ereditato dai lunghi anni di attività svolti dal padre e grazie alla quale soddisfano le esigenze dei clienti, sia con il brokeraggio che con il charter delle imbarcazioni gestite. Contact: +39 081 245.24.01 ddt@southseas.it | http://www.southseas.com Stabbert Maritime offers expedition yacht charters for discriminating travelers seeking first class adventure while enjoying the ultimate in luxury yachting. Stabbert Maritime has over 50 years of experience in providing expedition charters around the world. Take a look and see how they may accommodate your charter dreams. They provide quality vessel management service for select yacht owners and have undertaken numerous overhaul and refit projects. See what their engineering and management expertise can do for you. Contact: 212 541-6950 lindsays@stabbertmaritime.com | http://www.venture-pacific.com The Sacks Group The Sacks Group Yachting Professionals is a leader in luxury yacht vacations worldwide on vessels from 60’ to over 200’. Choose from over 1,500 yachts and cruise to classic destinations or exotic locales. Services also include charter marketing, yacht brokerage and new construction, call (954) 764-7742 or visit www.sacksyachts.com. Contact: 206 547-6161 http://www.sacksyachts.com | info@sacksyachts.com Trimarine We specialize in large groups of up to twenty. Most of our groups are divers or contain divers, though some are not. There will always be scuba instructors on board. Large families, friends, YPO’s, clubs and affinity groups all come. We also run some Headboat trips for individuals to join. Contact: Annie 800 648-3393, or 284 494-2490 cuanlaw@surfbvi.com | http://www.BVIsailing.com TSH OneAero We are cooperating with a selection of reputable and certified air charter operators worldwide. They work with efficiency and discretion providing our clients with the highest level of safety and comfort. As your charter broker we arrange your trip making sure you get the best possible price and the best service. Contact: Thierry S. Huguenin 242 327-1485 charter@tshone.aero | http://www.smartaircharter.com Valef Yachting Valef Yachts offers the largest fleet of crewed yachts for charter in Greece. There are more than 400 yachts, motor yachts, motor sailers and sailing yachts, accommodating 4 to 49 passengers in comfort. We offer permanent fully trained and experienced multilingual crews. Valef Yachts ensures excellent quality and reasonable prices on all food and beverage orders. Ask for our “private jet” charters. Contact: 800 223-3845 info@valefyachts.com | http://www.valefyachts.com Yacht Charter Group From world-famous celebrities to some of the world’s most powerful and influential business people...Yacht Charter Group caters to the Elite! You will be pampered like Royalty on “Our Fleet of Floating 5 Star Hotels! -- with Gourmet Chefs and World Class Crews...all created to fulfill your every fantasy! Contact: Lisa Kearns 561-835-0226 GaryYCG@aol.com | www.YachtCharterGroup.com Yachting Greece has an extensive knowledge of Greek charter yachts that make it the best choice when it comes to a yachting holiday in Greece. Understanding and fulfilling charterers’ requirements is their chief goal. Contact: +30 210 3233057 info@yachtingreece.com | www.yachtingreece.gr Yachting Parterners International can help make your dreams real when it comes to luxury yachting. Founded in 1972, they are one of the world’s premier yacht brokerage houses, with over 150 years’ combined experience in the marine business. Their services embrace everything from yacht chartering, acquisitions and sales to construction and management and are based on a meticulous, first-hand knowledge of today’s luxury yachting world. Contact: 800 626 0019 (UK) +44 0 1273 571722 (French) +33 0 4 93 34 01 00 ypi@ypi.co.uk ypi@ypi.co.uk | www.yachtingreece.gr YCO The YCO Charter Management division takes pride in understanding what makes a successful yacht charter truly great. Our first-hand knowledge of the world’s finest charter locations, coupled with access to the world’s finest yachts, guarantees you a yacht and an itinerary that will perfectly suit your expectations and desires. The YCO Charter Marketing division draws on our experience to manage your yacht’s calendar, maximizing charter potential to fully capitalize on your expenditure without compromising your own yachting enjoyment. With our powerful marketing campaigns, you’re safe in the knowledge that we’re reaching every potential charter client, worldwide. Contact: +377 93 50 12 12 charter@ycoyacht.com | http://www.ycoyacht.com YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM NOTE: THIS LIST IS PROVIDED AS AN ADDITIONAL SERVICE TO OUR READERS. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS. Alaska Charter Yachts is a consortium of ten small owner operated charter yachts offering the best of customized charter cruises in Alaska. Cruising, whale watching, wildlife, fishing, gourmet food, kayaking, hot springs, fishing, crabs and shrimp. Come let us show you the REAL Alaska we know and love. The Cruise Ship Alternative! Contact: V. Joyce Gauthier 206 310-2309 info@alaska-charter-yachts.com | http://www.alaska-charter-yachts.com EDITORIAL Publisher Fuat Kircaali fuat@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3001 EDITORIAL Editor at Large Jeremy Geelan jeremy@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3027 Managing Editor Jacques Marten jacques@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3040 Associate Editor Vasif Sayil vasif@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3040 Contributing Editor Stevan Roberts stevan@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3040 International Editor Tami Beatty tami@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3040 Assistant Editor Kim Hughes kim@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3025 ADVERTISING National Sales Carmen Gonzalez carmen@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3021 International Sales Miles Silverman miles@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3029 Advertising Director Robyn Forma robyn@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3022 Marketing & Sales Manager Jim Hanchrow jimh@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3066 Europe & Mediterranean Belkis Alpergun belkis@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3021 PRODUCTION VP Production Jim Morgan jim@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3033 Art Director Alex Botero alex@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3031 Art Production Editor Abraham Addo abraham@yachtchartersmagazine.com | 201 802-3037 KIRCAALI MEDIA President & CEO Fuat Kircaali fuat@kircaalimedia.com | 201 802-3001 VP Marketing & Sales Carmen Gonzalez carmen@kircaalimedia.com | 201 802-3021 VP Advertising Sales Miles Silverman miles@kircaalimedia.com | 201 802-3029 President SYS-CON Events Grisha DaVida grisha@sys-con.com | 201 802-3004 VP Production Jim Morgan jim@kircaalimedia.com | 201 802-3033 VP Information Systems Robert Diamond rob@kircaalimedia.com | 201 802-3051 SUBSCRIPTIONS 1-888-303-5282 subscribe@yachtchartersmagazine.com MAILING ADDRESS 1314 East Las Olas Blvd | Suite 500 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 EDITORIAL OFFICE 135 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Montvale, NJ 07645 Tel. 201 802-3000 Fax. 201 802-9600 www.YachtChartersMagazine.com International Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine (ISSN #1549-3830) is published quarterly (4 times a year) by Kircaali Media, Inc. COPYRIGHT © 2005 BY KIRCAALI MEDIA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL, INCLUDING PHOTOCOPY OR ANY INFORMATION, STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM, WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. FOR PROMOTIONAL REPRINTS, CONTACT REPRINT COORDINATOR. KIRCAALI MEDIA, INC., RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REVISE, REPUBLISH AND AUTHORIZE ITS READERS TO USE THE ARTICLES SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION. ALL BRAND AND PRODUCT NAMES USED ON THESE PAGES ARE TRADE NAMES, SERVICE MARKS, OR TRADEMARKS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE COMPANIES. WORLDWIDE NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION CURTIS CIRCULATION COMPANY, NEW MILFORD, NJ 201 634-7400 NEWSSTAND DISTRIBUTION CONSULTANT GREGORY ASSOCIATES/WRDS, 732 607-9941 bjgassociates@cs.com FOR LIST RENTAL INFORMATION: Kevin Collopy: 845 731-2684, kevin.collopy@edithroman.com Frank Cipolla: 845 731-3832, frank.cipolla@epostdirect.com Megayachts, Sharks, and Blue Marble Jeremy Geelan, Editor at Large Pull up Anchor with YV&C’s Latest Issue...and Enjoy WRITTEN BY JEREMY GEELAN jeremy@sys-con.com Did you know that in November, Great White Sharks congregate in the waters around the Farallon Islands, a protected national marine sanctuary located 26 miles outside of San Francisco Bay? Or that Makauba marble from Brazil is blue? Or that the average cost of the vessels on Forbes.com’s recent list of the 10 most expensive yachts in the world was $64.37 million? T hese are the sorts of unexpected and delightful facts embedded in the richly varied articles we have the pleasure of bringing you in this issue of International Yacht Vacations & Charters magazine. Such tidbits are mere appetizers of course. The main meal comes in the form of the meticulous and in-depth insights provided by our writers into some of the finest vessels in the world. In this issue, for example, you can spend time with them aboard the 120ft M/Y JASMIN, the 280ft P/Y Annaliesse, the 120ft M/Y Kayana, the 70ft M/Y Velista, and the 258ft SS Delphine. Jamie Matusow reports from Monaco on the resplendent Delphine – like an elegant floating castle, unique in her style and definitely one of a kind. Miriam Cain files a destination report on the “ludicrously perfect” Dalmation coastline of Croatia, while Michelle Blore and Alan Oliver bring us au jour on St. Tropez. Rebekah Mitchell looks at “adventure yachting” and shows how to plan and enjoy a personal National Geographic-style adventure in comfort aboard your own private yacht. If cage diving with sharks is something you’ve always yearned to do, this is the perfect way to satisfy your dream: a perfect marriage of luxury and high adventure! One of the world’s most sought-after yacht designers is Ward Setzer, whose vessels have claimed no fewer than three of the nine International Superyachts Society Design Awards given out in the last three years. We bring an exclusive profile of Setzer in this issue. Paula Farquharson previews for YV&C this year’s Monaco Boat Show and Paul Johnson transports us to the remote Mergui Archipelago off the south-west coast of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. Enjoy the issue. We hope that it will help you decide on your next destination and with your competitive research if you are considering a yacht charter, whether what you have in mind is motoryachting the islands of the Grenadines, or savoring the bygone age of steam. Above all, we hope that something you read in YV&C will cause you to fall head over heels in love, in advance, with your next charter vessel. The last word goes not to our own writers but to Ward Setzer: “Whether as an owner, guest or charter passenger,” Setzer observes, “living on board a modern yacht affords every luxury, accommodation and communications technology as the finest home or office, not to mention the ultimate in privacy and service from a dedicated crew.” YC V INTERNATIONAL YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS® IS THE REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF SYS-CON MEDIA INC. KIRCAALI MEDIA IS USING THE MARK PURSUANT TO A LICENSE AGREEMENT FROM SYS-CON MEDIA YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 9 YACHT PROFILE The Scent of Pure Excellence M/Y JASMIN M/Y JASMIN Reflecting the current trend for expedition-style vessels and specifically designed for charter, she combines sturdy, ocean-going capability with luxurious, elegant comfort. 10 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM WRITTEN BY JEREMY GEELAN Of how many vessels in the world, when first you see them, can you truly say that you were awestruck? Quietly, but conclusively. Awestruck. M /Y JASMIN, with her dark blue hulk, flared bow, white superstructure, and her flawless fully-faired finish, is such a vessel. Berthed conveniently at Atakoy Marina, just 15 minutes’ drive from Istanbul’s main Ataturk airport. When I boarded her, the JASMIN is the only yacht I have ever yearned immediately to circle over in a helicopter to enjoy an aerial view before going on board. From the very first moment, it is crystal-clear that you are entering not just “another superyacht,” but an incredibly unusual, one-off, memorable creation. And for some reason my first instinct was to want to see her from above, from the aft, from every conceivable angle, because her expedition-style lines are quite simply breathtaking. Hopefully the adjoining photo (facing page) will allow you to share the “helicopter perspective” that I wasn’t able to! Entering a World of Unsurpassed Comfort Within moments of entering the main saloon from the aft deck, you become aware that this is no ordinary vessel. Above and beyond the exquisite saloon, about which more momentarily, the JASMIN’s full-beam master stateroom is also located on the main deck, making the transition from main saloon to master stateroom a journey of just a few seconds. This is the kind of shamelessly convenient luxury that the majority of 5-star hotels cannot surpass. Before returning to the main saloon, since that’s the tasteful crucible in which one’s first impressions of JASMIN as an exquisitely designed charter vessel are formed, let me recap a little of the background to this remarkable yacht, since the same fierce passion for excellence evident in the chunky, long-range exterior and the elegant, finely crafted interior was evident right from the project’s inception. To know “The JASMIN Story” – her pedigree, if you like – is to want to connect with it, savor it, and ultimately want to charter it. Because it isn’t often one gets the opportunity to charter an unadulterated Dream Machine. I was fortunate enough to learn the background story first-hand, from JASMIN’s operations YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS manager, Sansal Ilgün – WHO studied as an engineer in Istanbul, with an overwhelming interest in naval architecture which led to the editorship of a yachting magazine before he became the point man in Turkey for RINA (Registro Italiano Navale), the standards and inspection organization. Meantime the soon-to-be owner of JASMIN, Mr. Murat Vargi, telecoms entrepreneur, had decided to build a superyacht. On visiting in Holland the design office of renowned Dutch naval architect and marine engineer Dick Boon, a veteran in the business, Mr. Vargi at once saw that this was whom he wanted to design an expedition-style boat for him. He also knew that what he wanted was not a 50 meter vessel but a 35 meter version – it ultimately ended up a 37 meter version (that’s to say a 120 footer), in order to accommodate certain design elements. But what Vargi needed too was someone to run the project, to supervise the whole thing from soup to nuts. Not just its construction at the RMK Marine Shipyard in Istanbul, but also the budget of the overall project, including the all-important timetable so that the vessel could leave the shipyard and make its debut in May 2003, as the 15th International Yacht Charter Meeting in Genoa, Italy. A 6-month planning phase was followed by 24 months of actual building. With his engineering and naval-architecture background, and his managerial flair, Sansal Ilgün was perfect for the role. The construction ran completely to schedule, and M/Y JASMIN was indeed first presented at the IYCM in Genoa, right on time. Since 2003, JASMIN has already seen two full years of service, in 2003 and 2004. As the 2005 season opened, the prospects looked very good, particularly with the mounting interest that the world is now showing in the Turkish coast, with its wide range of coastal town and harbors. Master Suite The master suite is located on the main deck and features a king-size bed and two bathrooms. Joint Venture in Excellence Back to that main saloon. If the fons et origo of the overall project to commission JASMIN back in 2001 was Murat Vargi, the interior that makes her what she is in 2005 was created by Eva Cadio and Rima Abi Chahine of the Istanbul design company AC.T Studio, working closely with Birgül Vargi. It was this team that came up with the formula that makes JASMIN so mouth-wateringly gorgeous to be aboard, with its rich dark woods – predominantly African mahogany, beautifully glossed – and pale fabrics. Just as Swarovski cut-crystal light sources dot the deckhead, so the collective genius of this design team shines discreetly through wherever on JASMIN you look – and I mean absolutely wherever. Nowhere is it more in evidence, for example, than in the bridge. As befits the rugged ocean-going nature of JASMIN, this is not a bridge just for glancing at; it is a bridge for sitting down and partaking of and Dining Dining is offered on the upper deck and on the main deck levels. VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 11 YACHT PROFILE Jasmine Specifications Overall length:..............36.84m (120 feet) Built: ...................................... RMK Marine Cruising speed: .......... 12.5 knots cruising 13.5 knots max Accommodation: ...................... 10 guests in 3 double and 2 twin cabins Crew: ..................................................... 7/8 Special Features:........... Spacious Master cabin provides 45 m2 of living space. The four cabins on the upper deck have large windows, two of these cabins have direct access to the upper deck Tenders & Toys: ...........1 x 15’ Castoldi jet 1 x Ivela Marina TT 530 tender (5.3m) with 100hp outboard, 1 x 2-seater Kawasaki jetski Ultra 145hp, 1 x Double trouble, 2 x 1-person kayak, wakeboard with adjustable fittings, snorkelling, waterskis, kneeboard, fishing gear Cruising area: .................... Mediterranean Sun Worshippers Sun worshippers are accommodated in front of the bridge, on the upper deck or in the aft cockpit. in! While Captain Tansel Mısırcı, who previously served 10 years in the merchant navy as Master, takes care of navigating the ocean passage of your choice, you can ensconce yourself at the polished mahogany table with its comfortable all-round bench seat and follow the action. For safety and operational reasons the state-of-theart bridge has an unsurpassed 360-degree view, and anyone sitting at the table can enjoy it too. The World Is JASMIN’s Oyster If the prospect of cruising non-stop at 11 knots for 5,000 miles is too daunting (for that is what JASMIN is capable of thanks to her astute 12 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 design and exceptional fuel efficiency), not to worry. Just because she is ocean-going, MCA compliant, with full classification from Lloyd’s Registry of Shipping, doesn’t mean she can’t also sail gently up the Bosphorus, to enjoy the sights and sounds of her home waters, or head off toward Italy’s Amalfi Coast – whatever her superyacht guests prefer, JASMIN can oblige. At a cruising speed of 10 knots JASMIN doesn’t even need both her engines. Perfect Down to the Last Detail In so short a space it is, quite literally, impossible to do a craft like JASMIN full jus- YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Boys don’t grow up, their toys just get bigger. �������������������� �������������� ��������������� Chartering fine toys since 1983. ������������������� � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ���������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� YACHT PROFILE WhileYou’re In Istanbul If chartering M/Y JASMIN from its home port, Istanbul - embarking as I did in Atakoy Marina, for example - then don’t miss out on a visit to Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar ( Kapali Çarsi, Covered Market). With well over three thousand different shops, it is Turkey’s largest covered market offering beautiful Turkish carpets, glazed tiles and pottery, copper and brassware, apparel made of leather, cotton and wool, meerschaum pipes, alabaster bookends and ashtrays, and all sorts of other excellent wares. Importantly, a dozen restaurants in the bazaar allow you to have lunch in the midst of your shopping. It is closed on Sundays, bear in mind. If you prefer to eat elsewhere, then I could not recommend anywhere more delightful than the Topkapi Palace Konyali, where you can dine on traditional Turkish fare - a total of 700 diferent dishes from soups to deserts - while savoring a magnificent view of the Bosphorus. Konyali has become known to many kings, queens, presidents, prime ministers, princes, and princesses all of whom got to know Turkish cuisine through Konyali. Highly recommended. About the Writer Jeremy Geelan is edtior at large of International Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine. jeremy@sys-con.co 14 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 tice, because what makes it special is quite simply its almost limitless welter of innovations, such as the two VIP guest cabins each having their own door onto the aft deck, transforming them into mini-master-cabins in their own right; or the unexpected facts that the table on the aft deck can be lowered to coffee table height while (for example) water sports are in full flow, or that – Turkish to the core – JASMIN is fitted with an olive tank to store the very best virgin olive oil for use in the gourmet dishes served on board – in JASMIN’s dining room that sits ten comfortably around its oval mahogany dining-table. Or indeed outside on either the main or the upper deck, where versatile deck tables are designed to seat up to 16 guests comfortably. There are 4 guest cabins in all, in addition to the 45-square meter master stateroom, and JASMIN has so many sunbathing areas that privacy is assured even when all staterooms are occupied. Showcasing Collective Genius In the main saloon deck of JASMIN, on a bookshelf heaving with tempting volumes about Turkey and about yachts, I noticed a copy of Volume 17 of The Superyachts, produced in 2004. I immediately devoured editor Roger Lean-Vercoe’s introduction and acknowledgements, in which he discusses what features confer the status of “superyacht” upon a vessel. The answer’s not straightforward, Lean-Vercoe writes, since what makes a superyacht isn’t so much overall length, displacement or even cost. What distinguishes a superyacht from what is merely a “well-built large boat” – in his view – is not so much that the vessel is generally large (though, almost certainly, it is over 35m /115ft in length) but that it’s a yacht “which meets the highest standards of design and construction. In addition, it is a yacht that excels in one or more particular fields, be it craftsmanship, the ornateness of the interior, or even the sheer size of the project.” It will not I think surprise anyone reading this article to learn that JASMIN, inevitably, is one of the vessels listed. Deservedly so, because it excels not in one, or even two, but all three of the fields of excellence Lean-Vercoe mentions. A superyacht like JASMIN, in other words, is a showcase; not just for the owner of the yacht, but also for the naval architect, interior designer, stylist, builder and craftsmen who have devoted a sustained period of their life to the creation of an amazing collective work of art. The scent of JASMIN, in short, is the scent of excellence itself. Who could ask for more from a superyacht? Come. YVC Information If you would like more information regarding booking a charter aboard Jasmine, please contact Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing Les Résidences du Port Vauban, 19 avenue du 11 Novembre, 06600 Antibes, France +33 (0) 493 34 22 42 charter@insull.com www.insull.com YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Sale & Purchase New Construction Yacht Charter Charter Management Yacht Management C&N marks are registered trademarks used under licence by CNI. Photos: Jérôme Kélagopian Crew Placement www.cnconnect.com • Monaco +377 9797 7700 • Antibes +33 492 912 912 • Cannes +33 497 041 050 • London + 44 207 491 2950 • Fort Lauderdale +1 954 524 4250 • Miami +1 305 604 9191 • Palm Beach +1 561 655 2121 • Mexico +52 55 56 31 40 29 • Palma De Mallorca +34 97 140 3311 feeldifferent RESTORATIONS A classic steam yacht gets restored to her former glory Originally launched by the Dodge family in 1921, SS Delphine is now grander and more sophisticated than ever, having incorporated every amenity today’s charter guests desire. 16 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ost captains display a certain affection for their vessels, but Norwegian Captain Morton Hansen speaks of the 258ft SS Delphine as if she were a paragon, describing her as though she were an elegant, refined woman of whom he’s enamoured, and one for whom he shows the utmost respect. “She’s a lady,” Hansen says emphatically. “Treat her right, and she will give back.” And indeed she has. The opulently appointed steam yacht has responded well to a lengthy restoration process that has both brought her up to today’s standards and revived the beauty and glamour of her past. When the current owners came upon SS Delphine in Marseilles in the mid-’90s, abandoned and disheveled, she still retained her fine bones and air of good breeding. “It was love at first sight for my father,” says the owner’s daughter, Ineke Bruynooghe, “and he bought her immediately.” Bruynooghe, a trained art historian, envisioned the possibilities for her father’s purchase, and began a restoration project that took almost six years. The vessel’s basic design remained intact, but she had been poorly refurbished in the 1960s. Bruynooghe’s goal was to restore Delphine to her original 1920s splendor, so she immersed herself in an historical research project that lasted for nearly two years before the actual work began. Bruynooghe located many original drawings and photos as a guide to historical accuracy, and was able to trace some suppliers of the yacht’s original furnishings. “The original arrangements were still there and we kept them as accurate as possible,” she says, though the yacht was in such a poor state, they had to pay special attention to where they were standing or “we [would wind up] one deck below.” Once the original style and décor were established, Bruynooghe, who was personally involved in every aspect of the restoration, faced the challenge of figuring out how new features could be integrated into the old style. For example, air conditioning ducts and electrical cables were placed inside the ceiling beams. Bruynooghe documented her extensive research in an elaborate book that took nearly a year to write. M bigger and better vessels, and although he used his yachts mostly for cocktail parties and as a base for watching yacht races, he sought something with additional overnight guest space. Thus, the idea for a steam yacht that could accommodate up to 20 guests was born. Unfortunately, Dodge’s untimely death prevented him from realizing his dreams, but his wife Anna executed his plans for the yacht. SS Delphine was launched in 1921 in Michigan. Thanks to a quadruple steam expansion engine designed by Dodge prior to his death, she could travel at a rate of 15 knots. Only the finest materials and furnishings, including many by Tiffany, had been used in her design. There was even an electrical lighting fixture – a rarity at the time and a sign of great wealth – suspended in the cupola over the huge dining table. Dodge’s family enjoyed Delphine for several years until she caught fire and sank. Anna Dodge recovered her, and the beautiful vessel once again steamed through the Great Lakes region. The onset of World War II, however, set SS Delphine on a much different course. No longer was she used as a pleasure yacht. She was acquired for use by the U.S. Navy, and toward the end of the war, she became a venue for historical strategy sessions run by world leaders such as U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Although Anna Dodge bought Delphine back at the end of the war, she was later commissioned, under a variety of names, for work with charitable organizations and as a training ship for merchant seamen. Then came several purchases by companies with intentions to restore her, but none of their plans were ever carried out. Finally, a company from Singapore, with connections in France, arranged for SS Delphine’s transatlantic journey. She arrived in Marseilles, but once again, their plans to restore her were never undertaken. She sat abandoned for several years until 1997 when the Bruynooghes came into the picture and had her towed to Belgium for restoration. The family had been in the yacht business for over a decade and, ironically perhaps, the father was an avid collector of vintage automobiles. Delphine was to be their first yacht restoration project; their goal was to introduce a unique, historically based experience into the charter market. SS Delphine’s History SS Delphine Today The story of SS Delphine began prior to 1921 when she became the dream of American automobile mogul Horace Dodge. Dodge, who was as much a fan of boating as he was of cars, had always enjoyed spending time on the Great Lakes in Michigan, and started his own boatbuilding business. He was always trading up for SS Delphine may be a tribute to a bygone era, but her modern-day comforts and amenities make her an enviable choice for an ultimate vacation or corporate charter. According to her owners, SS Delphine is the only surviving steam-powered yacht from the 1920s, and the only steam yacht of her size available for char- WRITTEN BY JAMIE MATUSOW YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 17 RESTORATIONS Delphine Lounge (to the Aft) The Delphine Lounge has two parts divided by Corinthian columns and two red curtains. The aft part covers the bar, a buffet Yamaha disklavier piano, a small Italian playing table and the staircase downstairs. The forward part is the sitting part of the lounge with sofa’s centralized around two low tables. H&A Dodge Suite SS Delphine Proposed Itinerary Ten Days along the French and Italian Riviera Day 1 Guests arrive at Nice Airport to be met by the crew of SS Delphine. Limo transfer to the yacht’s home port of Monaco for boarding. After settling in onboard, set sail for a short cruise to the Bay of Beaulieu (6 miles, 45 mins) for lunch at anchor and an afternoon of water sports. Return to the port of Monaco for the evening. Day 2 Morning cruise to the famous Pampellone beach near St. Tropez (44 miles, 5 hrs), and anchor for lunch and water sports. Late afternoon cruise to St. Tropez (9 miles, 1 hr) and anchor in front of the port for the night. Tender transfers to the town for shopping and nightlife. Day 3 Morning cruise to Cannes, stopping on the way in the Bay of Agay in the Esterel (15 miles, 2 hrs) for lunch at anchor. Late afternoon cruise to Cannes (12 miles, 1.5 hrs) and anchor in the bay for the night.Tender transfers for those who wish to go ashore. Day 4 Morning cruise to the Bay of Villefranche (22 miles, 2 hrs 45mins) for lunch and water sports. Late afternoon cruise to the Port of Monaco (9 miles, 1h 15mins), berth in the port for the night. 18 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Day 5 Morning cruise to St. Jean Cap Ferrat (6 miles, 45 mins), anchor for lunch and the afternoon. Late afternoon cruise to Marina Portosole, San Remo, Italy (18 miles, 2 hrs 45 mins), berth in the port for the night. Day 6 Set off after breakfast for a day cruise to Portofino (73 miles, 9 hrs), arriving after 7pm. Anchor in front of the town. Dinner onboard then tender transfers ashore to explore this pretty fishing village. Day 7 Cruise to Porto Venere near La Spezia (35 miles, 4 hrs), arriving in time for lunch. Afternoon excursion to the Cinque Terre and back to the yacht for dinner and night at anchor. Day 8 Cruise to Viareggio in the heart of Tuscany (20 miles, 2.5 hr). Shore excursions to Pisa, Lucca, and Florence can be arranged for those who wish to visit. Night in Viareggio. Day 9 Cruise back to Portofino (55 miles, 6.5 hrs), stopping on the way for lunch at anchor and an afternoon of water sports. Last night onboard, anchored in front of the town. Day 10 After breakfast, short cruise to Genoa for disembarkation. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ter. Bruynooghe says her unique, fully functioning original steam engines offer guests something they don’t get on newly built yachts with diesel engines: silence and no vibration. Her quadrupleexpansion steam engines are still oiled by hand, and the crew includes three engineers whose sole duty is to keep the engines primed and running smoothly. Captain Morten once again sings “his lady’s” praises when he extends an invitation to guests to visit the engine room. “One of the highlights [of cruising on SS Delphine] is to see the workings,” he says proudly. Wander through the expansive rooms or around the vast and elegant decks of SS Delphine, and you’ll marvel at the seamless blend of oldworld style and modern-day comfort and convenience. To the greatest extent possible, every original detail of the 1921 ship has been painstakingly reproduced. “She is unique in her style, one of a kind,” says Bruynooghe. “If you see a lot of yachts in the bay, you can easily pick her out – unlike modern yachts that all look the same. If you love antiques and lots of varnish and brass, Delphine is for you. She is like an elegant floating castle.” However, although she looks like a beautifully preserved museum exhibit, Delphine is a fully operational yacht, equipped with all of the latest technology to comply with modern SOLAS regulations and to ensure the comfort and safety of her passengers. SS Delphine accommodates up to 28 guests, though 26 is ideal. A crew of 24 is standard , but 30 can be accommodated – in separate quarters in the bow – to suit special requests such as musicians, hairdressers or masseuses. Luxuriously furnished guest suites all have en-suite baths, satellite TV, safes, minibars, music systems, and telephones for satellite/intercom use. Wi-Fi is available on the promenade deck, in the yacht’s smoking room, which is replete with oversized tufted leather furniture. On this deck, you can also relax on one of the silk-upholstered, elegantly carved, period sofas in Delphine’s lounge. The yacht’s two classic wooden tenders from the 1920s, still raised and lowered manually, can be found here as well. On the main deck, you’ll find the music room, complete with a baby grand piano. Once again, the gracious past meets the decadent present on the beautiful, spacious boat deck where white wicker chaises surround a large raised Jacuzzi/swimming pool that can be filled with either sea water or fresh water. In the lavishly decorated dining room, located on the main deck, furniture and fabrics from SS Delphine’s 1921 launch have been authentically duplicated down to the original lighting that bespoke Dodge’s wealth. Tables can be arranged in a variety of ways to accommodate a buffet for 100 or a sit-down dinner for all 28 onboard guests. Beveled glass cabinets hold porcelain collections including one of Napoleonic figurines. There is YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS SS Delphine’s vast promenade decks are a feature that cannot be found on modern yachts VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 19 RESTORATIONS With her large yellow smokestack and graceful lines, SS Delphine stands out in any port SS Delphine Specifications LOA .................................................. 257.8ft Beam .................................................35.5ft Draft ...................................................14.6ft Gross ton ........................................... 1961 Power .......2x quadruple steam expansion engines, each 1500HP Maximum speed......................... 12 knots Cruising speed ...................... 8 to 9 knots Cruising radius ........................2000 miles Fuel consumption ............ 1000l. per hour at cruising speed, 120l. per hour in harbor for one generator Guests ..................................... 26 up to 28 This is 22 in 11 double bed of which two are king-size VIP rooms and 4 in one cabin with bunk beds. All cabins have the same comfort and have fully equipped bathroom. Exceptional there can be 28 guests by adding one small room with 2 bunk beds and bathroom Crew ..................24 in standard conditions maximum 30 on extra request. Flag ................................ Madeira, Portugal Classification society .................. RINAVE, Portugal classed as passenger vessel less then 36 passengers Ship has ISM and ISPS code implemented Navigation ................. system equiped for A1+A2+A3 zone 20 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 another huge dining table on the promenade deck, where you’ll also find the yacht’s many water toys, including a small fleet of WaveRunners – a type of transportation Dodge certainly never envisioned. He would also likely be surprised at what has become of the area down below, which he originally designed as a storage room to hold spare engine parts. In perhaps the greatest effort by SS Delphine’s designers to accommodate today’s charter guests, the space has been transformed into a multi-room relaxation area complete with a large, fully equipped gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, massage area, hairdressing salon, and even a Turkish bath. Beautiful mosaic work wends its way throughout. With SS Delphine’s tremendous indoor and outdoor spaces, including multiple bars, dance floors, and lounges, Captain Morten stresses that she provides the perfect space for entertaining, and says, “There are no limitations on this boat.” He cites a recent wedding that was held onboard for 150 guests. The couple chose to take advantage of the historic nature of the vessel by following a 1920s theme. Guests arrived in port in vintage cars, dressed in period costume as flappers or Charlie Chan lookalikes. Another resplendent use of the vessel’s expansive space occurred during the past Grand Prix in Monaco. A McLaren Mercedes MP4-20 was positioned on her gleaming promenade deck and charter guests held a huge formal party in the area surrounding the luxury automotive centerpiece. Here in Monaco, SS Delphine stood out from the crowd of contemporary yachts in her home port where she had been relaunched and baptized by Princess Stephanie in 2003. Among the guests attending the royal ceremony? Diana Dodge and David Dodge (Horace Dodge’s grandchildren) who had not been onboard SS Delphine in 35 years. Although they were born after their grandfather’s death, and thus, after the original launch of Delphine, they were sure that he would have been proud of her comeback. YVC About the Writer Jamie Matusow is a freelance writer based in New York. jbmatusow@optonline.net Information SS Delphine accommodates 26 guests in 1 master, 1 VIP, 9 doubles (8 on lower deck and 1 on main deck ), and 1 cabin with 4 berths. She is based in Monaco year round. Daily charter rate: €50,000 (high season) and €35,000 (low season) plus all expenses, VAT exempt. Contact: Peter Insull’s charter department; charter@insull.com; Telephone: + 33 4 93 34 22 42 Fax: + 33 4 92 90 43 73 www.ssdelphine.com YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Rent A Greek Cruising Palace And sail among the 4,000 Greek islands FOUNDED IN 1969 THEN YOU CAN SELECT YOUR OWN ENVIRONMENT, YOUR OWN SCENERY, YOUR OWN ISLAND! Charter a motor yacht, motor sailer or sailing yacht (for 6 to 84 guests, from 60’ to 325’ and $1000 to $65,000 per day for entire yacht with its full crew) from VALEF YACHTS, agents for the largest fleet of crewed yachts for charter in Greece. IT COSTS NO MORE THAN BEING ON A CRUISE SHIP But • You can plan your own itinerary with your own captain • Your food with your own chef • Your drinks with your own steward, or leave it up to them to…pamper you. VALEF YACHTS LTD. International Headquarters: 7254 Fir Rd., P.O.B. 385, Ambler, PA 19002 U.S.A. Tel: (215) 641-1624 • (800) 223-3845 • Fax: (215) 641-1746 E-mail: INFO@VALEFYACHTS.com • Website: VALEFYACHTS.com YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 21 MEGAYACHTS All Decked Out The five-deck, 280ft Annaliesse has raised the bar in yacht charter 22 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Main saloon Lavish accommodations, state-of-the-art communications, and plenty of space for entertaining provide guests with the perfect mix of business and pleasure. WRITTEN BY JAMIE MATUSOW W ith the launch of the spectacular 280ft P/Y Annaliesse in 2004, Liveras Yachts’ director Kiri Kyriacou says his company has opened a new market in yacht charter. “Several years “ago,” he says, “we set out to design a yacht to accommodate 36 guests.” The result was an opulent, floating palace with an unsurpassed level of luxury. At a charter rate of $120,000 per day (or $800,000 per week), Kyriacou says the yacht’s leisure complexes and state-of-the-art business facilities are particularly well-suited to corporate use, though large families would be equally appreciative of her many amenities. He says that to the best of his knowledge, Annaliesse is the largest and newest SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) vessel built specifically for the charter market. To appeal to corporate accounts, considerable attention was paid to relaxation as well as to business. One of Annaliesse’s most unique features is a full-service super spa, with separate male and female – as well as communal – areas to accommodate clients of various cultures. Here, on the lower deck, guests can take advantage of a full range of services from facials to massage. The center includes a large area surrounding a marble Jacuzzi, a relaxation YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS room for quiet time after treatment, and private his-and-hers sections that each include a steam room, sauna, cold plunge pool, and a Jacuzzi. The ceiling is enhanced with stars, and lit with fiber optics that create a light show of sorts. While you gaze at an array of brilliantly colored underwater life swimming to and fro in a full-wall aquarium separating the his-andhers-relaxation/meditation rooms, you can contemplate what your next beauty treatment of the day will be. Two full-time crew are on hand to revive your sea-blown damage in a salon that offers hair, skin, and nail treatments. If you’re feeling more active or need to burn a few calories from last night’s gourmet feast, a full gym with treadmill, rowing machine, cycles, and free weights can help assuage your guilt. Do you have your children along? No need to worry if you didn’t bring along your nanny. A large, brightly colored playroom, complete with a slide and a ball scramble will help keep your little ones content. Even the giant master suite is designed to be conducive for small children accompanying their parents. A twin stateroom is part of the over-1300sq.ft luxurious suite located on the upper deck. Here, the owner’s stateroom features a king-size bed and a 42in retractable television with built-in DVD player. Panoramic windows provide an awesome 180-degree for- VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 23 MEGAYACHTS The Chef Suggests... Head chef Eduardo Salvador, who has served as chef onboard all of the yachts in the Liveras fleet, once again heads the galley on Annaliesse this season. Originally from Bilbao, Spain, he has vast experience in Italian and Spanish regional cuisine as well as international cuisine. Eduardo has also served in England and France, including a position at the Hotel la Cote D’Or under the three-star Michelin chef Bernard Loiseau. He is fluent in English, French, and Italian, as well as his native Spanish. Here is a sampling of menus you can expect from Salvador while onboard Annaliesse. Enjoy! Italian Menu Cabillaud Poelé au Beurre de Ciboulette, Tomates séchées et Polente aux Fèvettes ~ Roast Cod in a Chive Sauce, accompanied by sun-dried tomatoes and polenta with broad beans ~ Magret de canard aux olives, Penné au Pistou ~ Duck in an olive sauce, accompanied by penne in pesto sauce ~ Gateau Sicilien à la Ricotta et son Coulis de Fraise ~ Sicilian Ricotta Cake in a strawberry coulis French Menu Foie Gras Poele Chaud aux Raisins, Pains D’Epices et Petits jus au Muscat ~ Hot Foie Gras with Grapes accompanied by spicy bread and Muscat Sauce ~ Carré D’Agneau du paysan provencal, sauce au Romarin ~ Rack of Lamb in the Provencale Style perfumed with rosemary ~ Crème Brulée A L’Orange et Grand Marnier Crème Brulee perfumed with orange and Grand Marnier International Menu Mille Feulle de Thon, Noix de Coco et Coriandre Fraiche sur son lit de Mesculun ~ Grilled Tuna with Coconut and Fresh Coriander on a bed of mesclun ~ Sauté de Volaille au Curry, Petits lègumes du moment et son Riz Madras ~ Sauteed Chicken Curry with market vegetables and Madras rice ~ Feuillantine aux Pommes à la Cannelle et Crème Anglaise ~ Apple Cake perfumed with cinnamon and vanilla cream 24 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Dining saloon ward view. A remote-control system enables you to operate the window coverings from your bed. The all-white Afion marble bathroom, complete with skylight, is a suite in itself with two walkin closets, a double Jacuzzi tub, two basins and separate his-and-hers areas that include showers, toilets, and bidets. An adjacent fully equipped study in the suite completes your private home away from home. Fifteen additional lavish staterooms are available to accommodate the rest of your party. These include a VIP suite on the bridge deck (with a separate television lounge and pullout sofa for two), 10 staterooms on the main deck, and four on the upper deck. Each of these minisuites pampers you with the finest handmade fabrics and accoutrements, with special attention given to silk curtains, raised carpets, and an array of unique lighting systems. Large en-suite bathrooms finished in cool Michelangelo marble lie within. Depending on which deck you’re on, the marble will differ, for each level boasts a different type. Upon entry into the multilevel entrance lobby on the main deck, you’ll be wowed by the large slabs of blue Makauba Brazilian marble that surround the grand staircase on each landing from the lower deck to the bridge deck. If you’re too tired to manueuver the stairs, a separate guest elevator holds six, and runs from the lower deck to the sun deck. A separate elevator carries the crew. Annaliesse’s main deck provides one of the largest areas for entertaining of any private yacht. Comfortable sofas and groupings of armchairs in neutral colors are arranged amidst marble columns in the main saloon. Relax and listen to an accomplished musician on the yacht’s gleaming grand piano as you sip your favorite beverage while awaiting dinner. All 36 guests can be seated at once in the grand dining room at two tables. Mirrored ceilings, gorgeous linens, and theme lighting set the mood for yet another unforget- table evening aboard. Afterwards, you may want to head to the saloon on the bridge deck or to the vessel’s cinema, located on the upper deck. For lunch or on an evening with particularly nice weather, two tables on the bridge deck also offer dining for 36, al fresco, with candlelight and flowing white linens. Should you dock in port or welcome friends or associates who are flying in for the evening, head for Annaliesse’s sun deck where a helipad can accommodate several different types of helicopters. Once the passengers have disembarked, the helipad can be covered and easily transformed into a dance floor, with plenty of surrounding room for cocktails and conversation for up to 100 guests. During the day, the vacant helipad can be converted into a circular sunbathing terrace with easy access to the 20ft Jacuzzi/plunge pool that lies forward. When you tire of lying around on one of the luxurious sun beds, activities galore await at the large, teak swimming platform where you’ll find much more than access to the warm aquamarine waters. Annaliesse carries just about every water toy imaginable, including two 25ft tenders, four WaveRunners, a Laser sailing dinghy, water skis, kayaks, windsurfers, inflatables and tows, fishing tackle, PADI certified scuba diving equipment, and two scuba scooters. A full diving center is also available. So relaxed you’ve forgotten about the working world? When duty calls, there’s a fully equipped business center on the bridge deck in addition to private office space in each of the staterooms. Direct-dial telephone links and access to e-mail and the Internet are pretty much assured thanks to the vessel’s $45-million dish network. Should security be an issue, have no fear. Once again, Annaliesse’s designers have taken into account the needs of high-powered players. There are alarm systems throughout, and even an underwater surveillance system that’s monitored 24 hours a day to see if any objects are approach- YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Health spa Master suite Annaliesse’s five decks ensure that 36 guests can always have plenty of privacy when desired Specifications Length ......................................... 85.3m (280 ft) Beam ........................................... 14.44m (47 ft) Design Draft................................4.15m (13.7 ft) Main Engines ....................... 2 Caterpillar 3606 2030KW each at 1000rpm Propulsion System ........................Four-bladed, controllable pitch by KAMEWA Stabilizers ...Retractable type by FINCANTIERI Diesel Generators ...........3 Caterpillar 3412 TA, 500KW each 1 emergency Speed ......................Maximum speed 18 knots Cruising speed .................................... 16 knots Economy speed .................................. 14 knots Range ................... At economy speed 6500nm Air Conditioning .Heinen & Hopman Eng. B.V. All modern technology .................. Navigation/ Communication/Monitoring and Control/ Audiovisual/Security Systems Classification Society .......... DerNorske Veritas (DNV). The vessel complies fully with SOLAS and the latest IMO Regulations as a passenger ship for international voyages - +1A1 Passenger Ship COMF-V3 and US Coastguard Regulations NVIC 1-93 for foreign passenger vessels. Naval Architects .....Alpha Marine Ltd (Greece) Exterior Styling ......Alpha Marine Ltd (Greece) H. Poulias (Greece) Interior Design .... Alpha Marine Ltd H. Poulias Builder ................... Neorion Shipyards (Greece) YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 25 MEGAYACHTS 8 Days in Greece Captain Yevgen Yaroshenko joined Annaliesse this year following a 20-year career at sea. He graduated in 1984 from Odessa High Engineering Marine Academy and has held an Unlimited Masters License since 1994. His five years of experience as captain onboard P/V Golden Princess and his extensive experience with Eurasia International Ltd. have led him to the helm of Annaliesse. Captain Yaroshenko is fluent in English, Russian, and his native Ukrainian. Following is one of the itineraries he plans to follow this summer: DAY 1: ATHENS – KITHNOS (5 hrs) Under the shadow of the Acropolis, your charter on Annaliesse will embark in Athens. Once you’ve unpacked your bags, the yacht will set out for a tour of the Cyclades island chain. One of the first islands you’ll visit is Kithnos, a typical example of Greek island life that is unaffected by the trappings of modern tourism. Rugged rocky coastlines offer many sheltered bays for a quiet night at anchor. DAY 2: KITHNOS – SYROS (3 hrs 30 mins) After a robust breakfast, the yacht will head on a short cruise toward the island of Syros, where the port of Ermoupoli is said to be the “Queen of the Cyclades.’’ Once you have sampled the delights of the town, there are numerous bays in which the yacht can anchor for water sports. DAY 3: SYROS – TINOS (2 hrs) Next on our tour of the Cyclades is the mountainous and wooded island of Tinos. The spectacular Church of Our Lady draws pilgrims from throughout the Greek islands. After a stroll and perhaps a luncheon on shore, water-sports enthusiasts can enjoy the afternoon playing with some of the yacht’s toys. DAY 4: TINOS – MYKONOS (1 hr 30 mins) Next comes one of the most popular destinations in Greece: Mykonos. A cosmopolitan air combined with picturesque, whitewashed, limestone houses and old-world windmills won’t disappoint any visitor. Shopping is superb and the nightlife is sure to stimulate the senses as we mark the halfway point on our itinerary. DAY 5: MYKONOS – NAXOS (2 hrs 30 mins) After the fun of Mykonos, you may be ready to once again pursue more restful scenery, so the plan is to set out for Naxos, the largest and most fertile island in this chain. Steep peaks with rich vegetation growing on terraced slopes are a grocer’s delight with olives, citrus, and figs to name just a few. DAY 6: NAXOS – SIFNOS (4 hrs) With underground treasure pouring from her ancient gold and silver mines, Sifnos was once a mecca of wealth in olden days. Admire the scenery and imagine the lifestyle of simpler times from the remains of the medieval village of Kastro. DAY 7: SIFNOS – SPETSES (7 hrs) The next stop on our Cycladic tour is Spetses, where impressive homes and civic structures demonstrate this island’s longtime prosperity. Since there are no cars on the island, you can hire a horse-drawn carriage to show you around this scenic location. DAY 8: SPETSES – ATHENS (5 hrs 30 mins) Alas, as the sun rises on the last day of the charter, Annaliesse will cruise back to the disembarkation port in Athens. 26 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 ing while in port or at sea. There are also cameras located at the bow, main mast, main deck, engine room, and swim platform. Monitoring stations are located in the bridge, crew quarters, and in the master suite. With more than 25,000sq ft of deck space to cover, even a crew of 34 needs some electronic help once in awhile. However, as with any charter, the experience is only as good as the crew, and Annaliesse has set high standards. The nearly 1:1 ratio of exemplary crew to guest ensures that your time aboard will leave you wanting for nothing. There is even a small medical suite and a nurse on call 24 hours a day should the need for any medical treatment arise. Annaliesse is currently in the south of France for the summer season, but in late October, she will head for the Caribbean and beyond. With a range of 7,000 nautical miles at 14 knots, a steel hull and superstructure, and aluminum deckhouses, Annaliesse can easily cross the Atlantic, navigate the Panama Canal, and head for the western coasts of Mexico and the U.S. What were once the dreams of Annaliesse’s designers and builders have been fulfilled. “We’re very proud of her,” says Kyriacou. YVC About the Writer Jamie Matusow is a freelance writer based in New York. jbmatusow@optonline.net Information Contact: Liveras Yachts, Monaco; Tel: +377 97 97 45 10 info@liverasyachts.com YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Extravaganc ���� Becka- Cornish Relaxation Extravagance You set the limit to the you want to enjoy... Relax and have sweet dreams ...or you can just ������������������������������������������������ ��������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������ ���������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������� ������������������������������ ASIA A Step Back in Time The unspoiled islands of the Mergui Archipelago 28 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Imagine a charter destination that has more than eight hundred tropical islands spread over fourteen thousand square miles of Indian Ocean. Imagine mountainous, jungle covered islands that teem with wildlife, spectacular waterfalls that tumble directly onto white sandy beaches fringed by pristine coral reefs. Imagine no tourists and indigenous hunter-gatherer tribes with an exotic culture who live nomadic lives aboard their tiny boats. This place really does exist – it is the Mergui Archipelago off the south-west coast of Myanmar. WRITTEN BY PAUL JOHNSON T hat they exist in such an incredibly unspoilt state is entirely due to historical accident. For 50 years following the independence of Myanmar in 1947, isolationist policies served to keep foreigners out. Since 1997 access into the Mergui Archipelago became possible. Today a small handful of licensed operators offer luxury yacht charter and dive adventure trips into the remote wilderness of the Mergui Islands. Just a four hour drive away to the south lies the island of Phuket in Thailand, a popular mass tourism destination which is now experiencing a condominium property boom. The Mergui Archipelago takes its name from the historical trading port of Mergui with a superb natural harbour at the northern end of the archipelago. Established around 1500, Mergui’s strategic position ensured its rapid growth into a major trade entrepôt. Sailing ships of the time, faced with the fickle winds, uncharted reefs and pirates of the Malacca Straights to the south, preferred to offload their trade goods in Mergui. From here the goods were trans-shipped by elephant convoy across the Malaysian Peninsula to the ancient kingdoms of Ayutthaya, Cambodia and southern China. The invention of the steam driven cargo ship lessened the importance of Mergui and it gracefully declined into the sleepy market town it is today. The flora and fauna of the Mergui Archipelago have never been properly surveyed. A preliminary survey in the 1930s by the forestry department of the British colonial government listed the following as resident in the islands: tiger, leopard, bear, elephant, rhinoceros, wild boar, sambar, barking deer, tapir, mouse deer, flying lemur, gibbons, macaque monkeys, sea otters, pythons, cobras, crocodiles, monitor lizards, leatherback turtles and hawksbill turtles. Much of this wildlife remains undisturbed to this day. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Overhead the birdlife is equally prolific and unusual. Great flocks of noisy hornbills fly past every dawn and dusk. The jungle covered islands are home to the exotic “bird of paradise”, parrots and tiny sunbirds. Around the shoreline reef egrets, sea eagles, Brahminy kites, fishing owls and nocturnal night herons catch fish for a living. Of the eight hundred islands of the Mergui Archipelago only a dozen or so are inhabited. Many of the islands are huge; some are larger than Singapore. A ban on logging in the Mergui has prevented the widespread deforestation that is common elsewhere in Asia. As a result, all of the islands are covered in thick jungle with majestic stands of Burmese teak, mahogany, strangler figs and other indigenous vegetation. Most beaches are backed by trees that tower to over 150ft tall while overhead there is the constant cacophony of birds and small animals feeding in the forest canopy. The beaches are covered in animal tracks – the only human footprints in sight are the ones behind you. Jungle walks in this area, while demanding, are also very rewarding with glimpses of the elusive wildlife and superb views through the forest of the deep blue ocean beyond. The dramatic scenery continues underwater with magnificent coral reefs around many of the islands. The snorkelling and scuba diving in this area is superb. Sharks, whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, mobula rays and fish are prolific. In March and April each year, large numbers of sperm and humpback whales visit the area. Two years ago we had a memorable opportunity to snorkel with two sperm whales that were resting on the surface. Unfortunately, over the last few years some areas have been badly damaged by the destructive practise of dynamite fishing. The Myanmar Government has reacted very positively to lob- Young Buddhist acolytes SV Ilala A 63ft cutter rigged sailing sloop which has been operating in this region for 8 years. Ilala offers sailing, scuba diving and kayaking. www.ilala.net MV Taipan IV A 64ft luxury motor yacht which is available for charter in the Mergui Archipelago from 2005 onwards. www.taipan.org About the Writer Paul Johnson is the owner of Ilala Yacht Charters which offers adventure sailing, kayaking and diving holidays into the Mergui Archipelago. All photographs courtesy of Ilala Yacht Charters. ilala@ilala.net VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 29 ASIA Waterfall An icy cold mountain waterfall tumbles directly into the sea “The Moken are peaceful people and are a source of complete fascination to anthropologists as they still cling to their traditional nomadic, hunter-gatherer existence” 30 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 bying by environmental groups and is now working actively to stop dynamite fishing and has also introduced new legislation banning shark fishing in the Mergui Islands. These are certainly steps in the right direction. The indigenous people of the Mergui Archipelago are the Moken (also known as Salones). These gentle, peaceful people are a source of complete fascination to anthropologists as they still cling to their traditional nomadic, hunter-gatherer existence despite attempts to settle them in permanent villages. Traditionally the Moken do not fish. They are hunter-gatherers mainly living off shellfish collected in the inter-tidal zone. They also free dive for shell fish and sea cucumbers, sometimes diving to amazing depths ballasted by large stones tied to their waists. The Moken also occasionally hunt wild boar and small deer in the forest with the aid of their dogs. Each Moken family group lives on a flotilla (ban) of traditionally built wooden boats (kabang). Each member of the family also has a personal dugout canoe that he or she uses for foraging. When the Moken move from island to island, these dugout canoes are towed in a long chain behind their kabang. We occasionally come across the Moken in the Mergui Archipelago. They pull into a nearby beach in their flotilla of boats. Adults, children, cats, dogs, chickens and ducks leap off each boat and rush into the jungle to forage. Suddenly, at some hidden signal, people and animals come rushing back out of the forest and jump on the boat just before it leaves for another anchorage. Their arrivals and departures seem random and follow no obvious pattern of time or tide. Sometimes the Moken cautiously approach our yacht with a gift of rock oysters or maybe the haunch of a wild boar after a successful hunt. They are always delighted when we give them a gift in return – a roll of cloth or an old dive mask. Yacht charters into the remote Mergui Archipelago depart from the town of Kawthaung which is on the border of Thailand and Myanmar. From the regional transportation hub of Bangkok there are daily flights to Ranong which is on the Thailand side of the Pak Chan river border with Myanmar. A half hour trip on a local longtail boat transports you across the Pak Chan river to Kawthaung to join your yacht. Myanmar visas are issued on arrival. YVC Information Emerald Yacht is a US based booking agency that offers two superb yachts for charter in the remote Mergui Archipelago. Contact Skip Mansfield for further details. Email: skipmansfield@compuserve.com Tel: +1 941 639 4442 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ��������� ��������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������� � � � � � � � �� � � � �� � � � � � � ������������� ��������������������������������� ��������������������������� ������� �������������������������� ��������������������������� ������������ ������������������ ���������������������� ��������������������� ���������� ������������������������� ���������������������������� ���������������������������� ��������������� ����������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 31 YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS ���������������������������������������������������������������������������� DIVE CHARTER Shark Diving The ultimate in private yachting adventure Private adventure yachting is the “end all be all” for discriminating travelers. It is a world that is continuously in transition as new global destinations and adventure possibilities are discovered. We’ll take you inside the luxury world of cage diving with Great White sharks and show you how to plan your personal National Geographic-style adventure in comfort aboard your own private yacht. A New Era of Exploration U WRITTEN BY REBEKAH MITCHELL About the Writer Rebekah Mitchell is a freelance writer who lives in San Francisco. rebekah@rmcommunications.com 32 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 ntil ten years ago, high-end travelers had limited options for satisfying their adventure bug. Now well-heeled explorers have expanding opportunities to climb Mount Everest for $100,000 or rent their own private game preserve in Kenya. According to the World Tourism Organization, an agency of the United Nations, “eco-tourism and nature tourism are growing three times faster than the tourism industry in general.” Today’s active vacationers want unique far flung experiences with nature and they’re willing to pay for them. As a result, the two vacationing styles have merged, forming a new trend known as “high-end eco-tourism” that has become more popular than ever. This was the realization of Patric Douglas, CEO of Absolute Adventures-Shark Diver (www. sharkdivers.com). Douglas is best known for taking clients Great White shark cage diving at Isla de Guadalupe, Mexico. His operation is based out of San Diego, California. “More and more of my clients are seeking the experience of a lifetime, and something truly extraordinary that stands out from all their other vacations. Shark diving gives them a thrilling way to be closer to a rare and fascinating predatory species.” Growth and Allure of Shark Diving Once relegated to the world of extreme thrill seekers and scientists, shark diving has grown in popularity as an eco-friendly alternative to other adrenaline adventures such as private heli-skiing and guided rock climbing. However, unlike other extreme sports, cage diving with sharks is quite safe. Despite the fact that the movie “Jaws” kept us out of the ocean long after its debut, more people die from bee stings than shark attacks. Great White sharks remain one of nature’s most beautiful yet misunderstood creatures. They are really shy and slow moving animals. Viewing them under water is more than just an adrenaline rush. It is poetry in motion. Most people emerge from the cage with a sense of calmness and a newfound respect for the species. Unfortunately the Great White shark and other shark species are rapidly becoming extinct. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM According to the World Wildlife Federation “a rising demand for shark skins, fins, meat and other parts has led to a worldwide boom in shark fishing. And as sharks are at the top of the food chain, the slaughter of 100 million a year has severe repercussions for the whole marine ecosystem.” This is one reason why so many people are signing up for cage diving trips. There is no better time than the present to see these incredible creatures in their environment. Shark Diving Charter-Industry Inside Tips There are two ways to cage dive with Great White sharks: book or build. If you want to book, Douglas introduces CEOs and private clients to shark diving adventures aboard the M/Y Kayana. This 120-foot yacht was designed by renowned European ship craftsman Jon Bannenberg to cross the Atlantic on her own hull. Owned and operated by CEO Expeditions (www.ceoexpeditions. com), the Kayana is capable of taking passengers anywhere in the world in the lifestyle to which they are accustomed. Her shared interior spaces are warm, open, and exquisitely furnished. You’ll find plenty of room on the upper deck for sunning, enjoying the view, or perhaps a soak in the hot tub. The extraordinary aft deck is beautifully appointed with teak decks and furnishings. The main salon features madrona paneling and plenty of comfortable seating, where you can spend time relaxing, playing games, reading, or watching your personal shark diving movie with family and friends. The dining area can seat ten and showcases a unique, beautifully stamped copper table. Accommodations fit ten guests in five luxurious double staterooms, including the full beam master stateroom located midship. Each stateroom is comfortably furnished and equipped with its own entertainment system complete with satellite television. The private staff aboard the Kayana also take the finest care of you, from personalized dive masters that see to your cage diving needs, to bait wranglers that bring the sharks towards the cages for close-up viewing, to a private videographer who will document your adventure from topside and cageside vantage points. To further enhance guests’ experience, the master chef uses the freshest ingredients available to create mouth watering specialties - even cooking the day’s local catch upon request. Each meal is a culinary masterpiece. For one four-course dinner, the chef on the Kayana served tomatoes stuffed with wild greens in a beet vinaigrette with balsamic syrup, followed by seared ahi in a soy glaze with pickled ginger and seaweed salad, followed by a roasted pillar of beef and lobster tail with gorgonzola mashed potato, mushroom sauce, and roasted asparagus, followed by a chocolate tuile (a thin, crisp, cup-shape cookie) with vanilla ice cream and blueberries inside a spun-sugar cage. Guests can also sample wines from the owner’s own personal collection, one of the finest private cellars in the Northwest, along with their meal. “Shark diving has never been attempted on this scale before,” says Douglas. “It’s a perfect marriage of luxury and high adventure.” Alternatively, a few private yacht owners and eco-adventurers build their own shark diving cages to offer a lifetime experience to their onboard guests. In fact, Douglas and his team designed and built custom cages for one client who took his family Salmon shark diving off the waters in Gravina Bay, Alaska, aboard their 160-foot Delta yacht. On that trip, the owner hired Douglas to guide the boat crew through the lessons of safer shark diving. Risks and precautions Did you know that more people are struck by lightening each year than attacked by sharks? The truth is that cage diving with Great Whites can be safe, provided that divers take the following precautions: • Only cage dive in cages made from 100% steel or anodized aluminum pipe that feature an escape hatch through the top, should a shark breach the cage • Ensure all divers are certified, and have basic training on breathing and clearing their mask • Keep hands and arms inside the cage at all times; do not prod the sharks with poles, spears or other devices • Stay inside the cage or stay on the boat – but don’t stand on the swim platform or on top of the cage. Sharks can swim blindingly fast in pursuit of what they think could be a seal, when it’s only you in a wetsuit The main salon features madrona paneling and plenty of comfortable seating, where you can spend time relaxing, playing games, reading, or watching your personal shark diving movie with family and friends. M/Y Kayana The M/Y Kayana cruises the waters of Alaska and the Pacific NW. During the winter months she heads down to Costa Rica, the Caribbean and Bahamas. Dine in exotic locations, enjoy the breathtaking panorama from the spacious aftdeck, bask in the sun or have fun snorkeling, diving, fishing, jetskiing or a number of other recreational activities. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 33 DIVE CHARTER About Great White Sharks • The scientific name for Great White Sharks, Carcharodon carcharias, comes from the Greek words carcharos meaning “ragged” and odon for “tooth” • Great Whites grow to an average length of 10-24 feet and weigh between 25005000 lbs. • The Great White Shark is the only Apex Predator to not be tamed or kept in captivity long term; it has few ocean predators • Seals and sea lions, collectively known as pinnipeds, are their preferred food • However, the Great White’s biggest threat is man. Around 100 million sharks are killed every year for their fins because shark fin soup is an oriental delicacy SOURCES: WWW.GREATWHITE.ORG AND WWW.BITE-BACK.COM The dining area can seat ten and showcases a unique, beautifully stamped copper table. Offering Your Own Cage Diving If you decide to offer Great White shark cage diving aboard your own private vessel, ensure you hire an expert and extra crew to join you on your trip. Here is a brief description of how cage diving works. Unlike scuba diving, cage diving requires wearing only a scuba suit, mask, boots, gloves (optional), and weight belts. Cages are typically built from one-inch anodized aluminum pipe, welded at the seams, with horizontal bars across the sides, and flotation tanks attached a few feet below the top. Out of water, it resembles a large public phone booth. Submerged in the water, three-quarters of the cage rests below the surface and one quarter bobs about the surface. This free space gives divers a chance to clear their masks or communicate with the Dive Master on the boat. Depending on the size of the cage, four to six divers can comfortably fit during one full rotation. Air is supplied to divers by huge tanks which are located on the boat. Individual regulators are attached to the tanks using long hookah-style hoses. Lastly, the cage is always attached to the stern of the boat. Divers first enter the cage from the open stern of their boat, through a hatch at the top. After each diver is settled into the cage and ensures the regulators are working properly, the hatch is closed and the fun begins. Divers can also wear an underwater 2-way radio communications system to remain in constant contact with the boat. The amount of time spent in the cage depends on water conditions, weather, and quality of shark activity. For the most part, divers can stay submerged in the cage for up to one hour without getting too cold. When and Where to Shark Dive Before planning your cage diving trip, take into account the best seasons and locations for shark diving. In the U.S. from September through November, Great White sharks congregate in the waters around the Farallon Islands, a protected national marine sanctuary located 26 miles outside of San Francisco Bay. In the early 1980s, researchers discovered that these islands attracted huge populations of adult Great Whites that returned year after year to feed on the resident California sea lions and elephant seal populations. Off the coast, water temperatures average about 50°F and visibility only extends 20 feet, which makes it the least desirable place for larger yachts to cage dive. In the late 1990s, shark aficionados tracked the Great White shark population migration from September through November to a small barren island situated 200 miles off Mexico’s coast called Isla de Guadalupe. Here, the warmer 65° to 80°F water temperatures and 100 foot visibility make Isla de Guadalupe an ideal spot for cage diving with Great White sharks for both U.S. and Mexican visitors. Internationally, a few coastal towns in South Africa including Protea Banks, Gansbaai, and Cape Town offer cage diving from April through September. In these waters temperatures range from 55° to 65°F and visibility extends to 50 feet. The best known spot in South Africa is Dyer Channel (otherwise known as “shark alley”), a 20 feet deep body of water that lies between Dyer and Geyser islands. At this location, Great Whites come to dine on the resident population of 30,000 to 45,000 Cape Fur seals. Lastly Southern Australia and popular spots, such as “Scuba Zoo” on Flinders Reef in the Coral Sea and the Neptune Islands off Adelaide, boast large populations of Great White sharks. In this region, diving with Great White sharks best occurs from April to September when water temperatures are their coolest. Because of the 60° to 70°F temperatures and clearer visibility, shark photographers prefer shooting footage here more than any other place in the world. While there are hundreds of eco-adventures available in the world today, shark diving gives people a rare and thrilling opportunity to see predatory creatures in their natural habitat, as long as they remain on this planet. If you cage dive with Great White sharks aboard a luxury chartered vessel or your own private yacht, you will enjoy a safe and unique way of witnessing the rare grace and beauty of these species with the luxury of Four Seasons accommodations. It’s an experience that 99 percent of the world will only watch on TV. “It’s really the cutting edge of adventure,” says Douglas with a smile. “No pun intended.” YVC Information To charter this trip or any yacht you see in this issue of YV&C, please contact any of the recommended charter brokers listed on page 8. 34 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 35 RIVIERA Purely for Pleasure The myth and reality of St. Tropez Even if you’ve never been to St. Tropez, you’ve probably already seen the famous clock tower and the multi-million dollar yachts berthed shoulder to shoulder at the quayside. You’ve probably also heard talk of the boutiques, luxury hotels, restaurants and bars bursting with celebrities; all glitz and high-living. Some people are put off, others are drawn by curiosity. Certainly everyone has formed an impression before they arrive. 36 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:1 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM I t’s hard to imagine that just after the end of the Second World War when the owners of a local fishermen’s bar decided to open a dance cellar, everyone laughed because they couldn’t believe anyone from outside the village would ever come. In 1944 the quay Suffren, today lined with super yachts, was jagged with craters from the mines detonated by retreating German forces during the Allied landings. The nearby pastel houses, including the famous Bar Senequier, were tattered and pockmarked by shrapnel. However, earlier in the century, St. Tropez had been patronised by a number of artists and writers and already had a reputation as something of a creative melting pot. When the dust settled, the village soon began to attract musicians, film stars and other celebrities. In the mid 1950s the fishermen’s bar expanded again to become the Hotel de la Ponche and Club 55 opened its doors on the Pampelonne beach. At the same time, Brigitte Bardot made her film debut in Roger Vadim’s “And God Created Woman” instantly immortalising the myth of “la vie Tropezienne” to the outside world. The partygoers arrived in force as word spread and, before long, the jet-set could drop anchor safe in the knowledge that they would bump into their friends. Today, the same establishments that contributed to its initial success are still amongst the most popular. In a world where fame is often fleeting and based on large marketing budgets, St. Tropez is a rare phenomenon. “It’s not what I expected at all” is the comment we frequently hear from guests arriving on our YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHELLE BLORE AND ALAN OLIVER About the Writers Michelle Blore and Alan Oliver both quit successful careers in London to move to the French Riviera. They now run Dream Sailing (www.dreamsailing. co.uk), a yacht brokerage specialising in luxury crewed yachts, including their own 55ft sailing yacht, DreamCatcher of London. alanandmichelle@dreamsailing.co.uk VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 37 RIVIERA Zita Settled here attracted by the bohemian lifestyle Place des Lices Locals and tourists alike bustle around the colourful stalls laden with fruit and vegetables “St. Tropez is purely for pleasure; a theme park for adults where you can rub your toes in the sand whilst still wearing your stilettos” 38 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 yachts. No one’s particularly sure what they did expect but the pretty cobbled streets, stone archways and patchwork pastel houses always come as a pleasant surprise. Whilst the wealthy look on, the less well-heeled gaze across from the other side of the passerelle and lick their ice creams. But beyond the clutter of postcards, churned-out paintings and the usual tourist paraphernalia, St Tropez has genuine charm and authenticity. Take a visit to the art gallery La Musée de l’Annonciade to see St.Tropez through the eyes of the more famous painters who gathered here in the early twentieth century. You’ll recognise the light and the colours: the purple hills, the sun-washed buildings and the blazing sunsets. The light and atmosphere that Matisse, Signac and Marquet captured on canvas hasn’t changed and you can still sit on the terrace of La Ponche in Picasso’s favourite corner to appreciate his view of the bay. Stroll around the alleyways and stop by Zita’s little garden shop on the Rue Aire de Chemin where you’ll find an eclectic and very Tropezienne mix of straw hats, wind chimes, clothing and soaps perfumed with essential oils. You’ll find an eclectic and very Tropezienne mix of straw hats, wind chimes, clothing and soaps perfumed with essential oils. Not long before she arrived in the ’70s, the town had such a reputation that any teenagers unable to produce a legally witnessed letter from their parents permitting them to be there on their own, were frog-marched out of town by the police! On Tuesday or Saturday browse the market in the Place des Lices; locals and tourists alike bustle around the colourful stalls laden with fruit and vegetables, olives, flowers, herbs and spices, brightly patterned tablecloths and traditional straw shopping bags. In the evening it’s the preserve of the boules enthusiasts who while away the hours under the plane trees, fortified by glasses of aniseed flavoured Pastis. But at the end of a hot afternoon the best place to take refuge is in the Bar Sube where you can sink into one of the deep, polished leather armchairs. Upstairs from the Quai Suffren, it has the feel of a colonial yacht club and is the ideal place to remain incognito. Last time I was there, Mr. Armani was quietly enjoying a drink with friends, a comfortable distance from the crowds. It’s also the best vantage point to want to watch what’s going on outside - take your seat on the narrow terrace at about 5:30 p.m. and be entertained by the ballet of superyachts berthing in the port. So where’s the glitz? Well, only the French could combine deluxe with pure bohemianism in such style. Here, designer labels mingle with market stall finds and straw hats. You might leave the Ferrari in the garage and take the Mini-Moke instead but you can still pop into Dior and pick up some arm candy to show off when you dine at the Byblos (they’ll even bring a little stool for you to put your new handbag on). One thing is essential though – a yacht. Originally cut off landside by the densely forested Maures hills, St. Tropez has always been visited by sea; the Greeks, Romans, Saracens and Catalans all left their mark here and in the fifteenth century the town needed its own militia to keep the pirates at bay! Today, access is hampered by the motor car – in mid-summer the road into town simply grinds to a halt! But nowadays, the seaborne invaders are more welcome and the comings and goings of everything from tenders to eighty metre yachts is orchestrated with amazing precision. The only drawback being that everyone’s anchors get tangled into an unholy mess every night and the port divers earn a very good living sorting out the spaghetti next morning! YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM St. Tropez Pretty cobbled streets, stone archways and patchwork pastel houses To visit St.Tropez without a means of getting afloat is like going to the races without your binoculars – you’ll miss most of the action and you’ll never understand what all the fuss is about. Going to the beach? You’ll need the yacht because it’s on the other side of the headland to the town! Every evening hundreds of yachts arrive, decanting their guests onto the quayside still salty and often still in their bikinis and beach wraps to enjoy an aperitif or browse around the chic boutiques. And for those who come to see and be seen, the deck of a yacht makes a perfect stage! But it’s the sailing yachts that are really in St. Tropez’s blood and the pressure rises every October during the “Voiles de St. Tropez”. For seven days the romance of sail reigns supreme with not a motor yacht in sight. From classic yachts to up-tothe-minute carbon fibre racing machines, the Old Port is lined with thoroughbreds of a wilder kind. The sea churns and sails crack as the world’s most powerful sailing yachts jostle for position in the bay. This is St. Tropez’s annual rendezvous with its YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS roots. Many of the locals are seasoned sailors and even the graveyard has a prime sea view. Even so, you won’t find any celebrities buried here; it’s a very exclusive club – only third generation born and bred Tropeziennes are allowed underground! Perhaps it’s this determination of the locals to keep some things for themselves that contributes to St. Tropez’s lasting appeal. A resistance to change and a healthy respect for tradition and continuity of ownership has kept many of its institutions in the hands of the same families from one generation to the next. Added to this are the people like Zita who have settled here, attracted by the bohemian lifestyle, and who bring another dimension to what is a very multi-faceted community. Whatever the reason, there’s nowhere quite like it. St. Tropez is purely for pleasure; a theme park for adults where you can rub your toes in the sand whilst still wearing your stilettos and someone will pass you a glass of chilled Champagne. One thing’s for sure, when God created Woman he also created St. Tropez. YVC Information DreamCatcher of London charters from $9,936 per week in the Mediterranean, for up to six people. In the winter, she is available for charter in the BVIs. Contact: Dream Sailing, info@dreamsailing. co.uk or www.dreamsailing.co.uk VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 39 CROATIA The Dalmation Coast Unspoiled islands of the Med WRITTEN BY MIRIAM CAIN Diversity is the key to a good sailing area and Croatia has it in spades, with excellent marinas as well as secluded, deserted anchorages. Like a setting from classical antiquity, the quintessential cruising grounds of the Dalmatian coastline are ludicrously perfect. 40 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 T he notion that the Mediterranean was discovered, popularised, exploited and, in many cases, ruined does not run true for the Dalmatian Coast, where hundreds of islands scattered along the Croatian Adriatic remain beautifully preserved. We have, at least in part, Communism to thank for this. In Tito’s Yugoslavia, foreigners were barred from owning property so there was no opportunity for outsiders to blight the coastline with holiday villas or hotels catering to mass tourism. Having faced their share of conflict and war, the islands have fortunately remained relatively unharmed. Glorious remnants of the past still pile up one on top of the other – Illyrian, Roman, Christian, Venetian and Austrian influences ooze from the architecture and cuisine, and the Croats pride in their heritage is evident wherever you go. Flying over the islands of southern Dalmatia en route to Split Airport, the excited shrills of five girls from London rang throughout the aircraft. After a short flight, transferring from Split Airport to the new Kastel Marina was painless (for us anyway, our driver Mario might not have the same opinion). Escorted aboard the 50-foot sailing yacht by our skipper Robbie, the excited shrills continued. Whether these were due to our awe of the new vessel in Sail Croatia’s fleet or the six-foot blond skipper is uncertain – I think it was a mixture of both. The yacht itself, a Beneteau 50, earns admiration for its deportment at sea but also for its impressive bow-to-stern finish, the sparkling teak deck, the roomy saloon and cabins, and, most importantly to us girls, the striking dark hull, making our home for the week the most attractive in every harbour we entered. With over 1,400 islands floating tantalisingly in the azure waters of the Adriatic, the Dalmatian coastline is around 350km long, stretching from Brioni in the north to Korcula in the south. With hidden coves, olive groves and perfectly formed white-stone villages, each island has its own special charm. After a peaceful night in our roomy cabins and a hearty breakfast of flaky pastry rolls filled with hot cream cheese, a delicacy left by the Turks, we happily sailed away from the mainland towards our first island, Vis. The Croatian equivalent of Capri, without the prices and crowds but with its own blue grotto, Vis is one of the furthest islands from the mainland and the nearest to Italy. Arriving in port in the late afternoon, we were heartily welcomed for a seafood dinner at the Pojoda Restaurant, which also doubles as a cookery school for men. If you like fish, Croatia is the place for you. The Dalmatians have always lived off the Adriatic Sea and although fishing has given way to tourism as the main earner, locals are still great fishers and in the late afternoon you can see groups of men gutting the fish they have caught that day. Sailing along the southern coast of the island we discovered several military tunnels dotted along the cliffs, which were used as munitions depots during the Second World War. Vis played an important part in the War. Tito used it as his base in 1944, establishing a hilltop retreat in the security of the caves of Mount Hum. From here he devised his strategies as the British Navy in the harbour provisioned forays against the YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Revelation S tabbert Maritime World Class Service to Exquisite Destinations Revelation Specifications: Legacy Specifications: For more information, • Length 180’ • Length 110’ contact Lindsay Stabbert • Number of Guests: 12 (6 cabins) • Number of Guests: 6 (3 cabins) 206.547.6161 x116 • Number of Crew: Captain + 7 • Number of Crew: Captain + 3 Fax: 206.547.6010 • Charter Rate: $90,000 + Expenses • Charter Rate: $35,000 + Expenses Cell: 206.383.1321 • Summer Destinations: Alaska / Pacific NW • Cruising Destinations: Alaska / Pacific NW lindsays@stabbertmaritime.com photos by Dana Jenkins & Neil Rabinowitz • Winter Destinations: Mexico YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Legacy VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 41 Beneteau 50 Admired for its deportment at sea but also for its impressive bowto-stern finish, sparkling teak deck, and roomy saloon Information To charter this trip or any yacht you see in this issue of YV&C, please contact any of the recommended charter brokers listed on page 8. About the Writer Miriam Cain is the communications and publications manager for Camper & Nicholsons International. She is also the managing editor for the the luxury travel magazine Sea & I. 42 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Germans. After climbing the 282 steps to the now unadorned cave, with an insight into the islands’ history along the way from local winemaker Oliver Roki, we were ready for the local delicacy of fresh octopus and potato that had been stewed in Roki’s red wine all afternoon. Colonised by the Greeks thousands of years ago, the islands almost certainly owe their wineproducing heritage to the Greeks who first planted the vineyards. The neighbouring island of Hvar is known to have some of the best wine in the world, thanks to 320 days of sunshine a year. In the 13th century Hvar was governed by the Venetian doge and the main town of the same name owes much to Italian influences. Centred around a Baroquestyle harbour (the largest in the Adriatic after St Mark’s in Venice), Hvar Town could not be better designed for a stroll around the many cafés that line the piazza, harbour and tiny medieval streets known as kala. Retaining a feeling of remoteness despite being one of the largest islands and one of the closest to the mainland, Brac is most famous for its scores of interesting villages built mainly out of local stone. The island is a great source of stone worldwide (the White House is built of Brac limestone) and its masons work all over the Dalmatian region. Built into the side of a cliff face is the immaculately maintained 14th century monastery, Pustinja Blaca, which is a pleasant 45-minute stroll upfrom the valley on the south side of the island. Home to monks since 1551 (the last remaining left in 1963), the inhabitants of the monastery and its local community tilled the land and created a thriving and wealthy area producing wine and the finest cheeses and smoked ham that are now famous to the area. The latter, Prsut, is said to be superior to its Italian rival, Parma ham. After our stroll we were treated by the caretakers to local wine to quench our thirst, but unlike the 12 men who consumed 12 gallons over eight hours while carrying the monastery’s grand piano for the last monk, Nikola Milcevic, we refrained from the last few gallons in eager anticipation of returning to our yacht and skipper, both of which we had become quite attached to. After a swim in the early evening and a short sail to the island’s beautiful bay of Lucice, we were back to eating and drinking. Our stewardess, Zrinka, was eager to recommend off-the-tourist-track restaurants and sights and, ever eager to please, she arranged our final supper in the most peaceful restaurant. It is family-run by local celebrities and we were treated to artichoke, pea and prosciutto stew accompanied by stories of the past conflicts and an insight into the idyllic island life. Stepping up on deck the next morning we found that Robbie and Zrinka had raised the sails early to ensure we had time to explore the old town of Split before our flight home. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Split is one of the best-known places in Dalmatia. The city grew up around the vast site of Diocletian’s Palace, the waterfront residence completed by the Roman emperor in AD305. Over the centuries, the three hectares of towers, fortifications, vaults, slave quarters and apartments have been turned into a warren of shops, restaurants and cafes, and so the social centre remains within the walls of the palace. The entire Dalmatian scene is alluring and exploring it on a yacht is especially appropriate, given that much of it comprises islands and coves that are not easily accessible. The most interesting spots are known by word of mouth and it is recommended that those new to the area or fresh to sailing enlist the help of Sail Croatia’s experienced skippers who can both guide guests and develop their sailing skills. Sail Croatia can also provide charter yachts between 35-56 feet on a bareboat basis or fully crewed. For further information visit www.sailcroatia.net. For yachts over 100 feet, visit www.cnconnect.com to view Camper & Nicholsons International’s large fleet available for charter along the Dalmatian coast. YVC YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ������� ���������� ������ � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ������ ��� ����������������������� � ���� ������������������������������������� ������������� ��� �� ����� ����������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������� ���������� ���� ��� CARIBBEAN St.Vincent and the Grenadines Don’t miss this spectacular part of the Caribbean Mention a Caribbean cruise and most people assume you’re talking about St. Martin / St. Barths or perhaps the Virgin Islands. People usually do not think of the Southern Caribbean which includes St. Vincent and the Grenadines. However, that is starting to change. “The Caribbean is the most beautiful place in the world” said one of the guests cruising aboard the M/Y Velista, “and the islands of the Grenadines are so spectacular that there is no way to describe this with photos or words – you literally have to see it to believe it!” C WRITTEN BY REBECCA RILEY ouple this beauty with the economics of $2.60 EC to $1.00 US and fuel that in some places costs less than $1 per gallon and you have the makings of a great yachting destination. Add to that a great motor yacht like Velista and you have an incredible charter experience waiting for you. Velista’s new owners, Antonia Philip and Wilfred Espinet, had invited a few lucky people to cruise with them as they took the 70' Maiora Motor Yacht Velista www.myvelista.com from Fort Lauderdale to her new home in Trinidad. Day One About the Writer Rebecca Riley is president of Paradise Yacht Charters, Inc., and has been in the yacht charter business for almost 15 years. She loves traveling to new and unusual destinations and finding great locations for that “perfect” charter. (www.paradiseyachtcharters.com) rjrmail@yachtchartersmagazine.com 44 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 I joined the trip in St. Lucia and had been sailing for less than an hour when we cruised by two of what have to be the most photographed scenes in the Caribbean; Marigot Bay and the Pitons. Thank goodness for digital cameras and a laptop – I had taken more than 40 photos in the first two hours of our trip! Fortified with the best Bloody Caesars on the planet, just one of Antonia’s specialties, we settled in for our crossing to St. Vincent, about four hours from St. Lucia, where we would begin our journey through the Grenadines. As we approached St. Vincent I was in awe of the incredible lushness of the Mesopotamia hillsides. We were told later that afternoon that it had rained the night before and every plant was showing its richest and deepest color. There was only one basic color, green, but there were no less than a hundred shades of that color on the palate Mother Nature had painted on this lush island landscape. We chose an anchorage between St. Vincent and Young Island which was literally a living picture post card. A small boat ferried guests from the mainland out to Young Island, a 35 acre island which has a hotel with a white sand beach that has chaise lounges for sunbathers, hammocks hung under thatched roofs – perfect for reading a book or taking a nap, tennis courts, a lovely pool and of course the water of the Caribbean. I loved our anchorage and prefer it to the Blue Lagoon just around the corner. Both, however, are quite lovely. As we witnessed the first of many spectacular sunsets, lights began to dot the hillsides around us and we sat on the upper deck doing our best to take it all in before it vanished. We were sure that a setting this perfect couldn’t be real. The shoreline offered several exceptional restaurants and we went to shore that evening to enjoy a fabulous dinner on the beach. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Day Two We awoke the next morning to the same idyllic setting. Nothing had vanished during the night – it was the same beautiful harbor that had been there the night before, confirming that this wasn’t a dream – but rather – St. Vincent and the Grenadines! We spent the day visiting friends who lived on the hillside overlooking the harbors, the yacht club and beautiful Caribbean water and thoroughly enjoyed life on St. Vincent. It didn’t take long to realize the intense passion of the islanders. They are very dynamic and emotional people – especially when it comes to cricket! The World Cup Games will be held in the islands in 2007 and people are already vying for tickets to the games, hotel rooms and transportation. (If you would like to attend, you might want to start making plans now!) Much of our afternoon was spent in heated discussions regarding the best teams, the best players and how best to see the games. The M/Y Velista is already getting inquiries from people wanting to charter her for the entire tournament. A yacht will be the perfect way to see the games as it will provide both hotel room AND transportation to the games which will be on various islands throughout the Caribbean. Just settle in to your stateroom – and enjoy the games. No packing and unpacking or fighting security hassles at the airports – just luxury and relaxation! Day Three The next morning following a special West Indies style breakfast complete with homemade “bakes” and salted cod – we headed to Bequia (pronounced BEK-way), just a short cruise from St. Vincent. As we pulled into peaceful Admiralty Bay – we were met by one of the locals who meet all the yachts that pull into the harbor and lead them to an anchorage that will hold them securely for the evening. These locals will bring you supplies if you wish and offer an assortment of fresh seafood, including lobster and conch (called lamby in this part of the world). They will also offer taxi service to those without a dinghy. Their colorful boats are a trademark of Bequia and play an integral role in her history. Bequia is a whaling island and even today – on rare occasions stringently policed by international regulations – the entire island gets involved in the capture of a whale. Their boats – while small – are incredibly well built and in no way lack in seaworthiness. Their bright Caribbean colors add to the island atmosphere and are typical of the spirit of the people in these wonderful islands. Once you are secure – it’s time to take the dinghy and zip into town. There are several little shops, a fresh fruit and vegetable market, lots of vendors selling models of the famous Bequia boats and of course – be sure to get to Frangipani in time for Happy Hour. This is a great place to meet the locals as well as other yachties and sample some of the great Caribbean rums and beers. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Day Four The next day we pulled up anchor and headed to Mustique. If you can imagine: an entire island of picture perfect cottages; rainbow colored fishing boats; a story book school house; not just well manicured lawns – but an entirely manicured island; magnificent island estates that are home to people such as Mick Jagger – who hosts a beach party every year to fund the school, Tommy Hilfiger – who sponsors the soccer team, Brian Adams, Phil Collins and more, then perhaps you have tiniest glimpse of what it’s like to be on Mustique. As you approach the island you realize even from a distance that this is not your typical Caribbean island. Even the beach looks as if it has been staged for a movie set with perfectly placed coconut palms, colorful fishing boats on the shore and the flags of Basil’s, the infamous Mustique bar and restaurant, welcoming you to the island. The island is one of extreme contrasts: fishing boats to megayachts and quaint cottages to mansions with guests houses that would rival most homes. And it is all picture perfect. If you want to venture beyond Basil’s and the beach and check out the rest of the island, you can call Michael who will pick you up in his covered jitney and take you around the island showing you the best beaches, the magnificent Cotton House Hotel, the airport (flying the flags of the countries of property owners on the island) and of course – the island homes of some of the famous residents. If you like Blues - a good time to visit is in January or February when they have their two week “Blues Festival”. Money raised during the event is used to send children of St. Vincent to secondary school. You can learn more about this event by going to www.basils-mustique.com or www.dana-gillespie.com. Our next stop was Canouan, home of the Raffles Resort and Trump Real Estate Development. This M/Y “VELISTA” Specifications Builder: ............................................... Maiora Type: ........................... Flybridge Motor Yacht Length:................................................... 69.5’ Beam: .................................................... 18.5’ Draft: ........................................................... 6’ Year Launched: ..................................... 1998 Accommodates: ............................. Sleeps 6 .................... in three staterooms plus 2 crew Construction: ................................Fiberglass Engines: ....................... Two MTU 12V183 TE ...................................................1,150hp each ..................................................... hours: 1200 Speed: ................................... Max: 29 Knots ...........................................Cruising: 23 Knots ........................................ Fuel: 1,870 US Gals ........................................ Water: 535 US Gals Generators: ......................Two Kohler 19 kW ......................................... 240/120 Volts 60Hz ...................................................... Hours: 400 Cricket The locals are intensely passionate about the games. The World Cup Games will be held in the islands in 2007 and people are already vying for tickets! VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 45 CARIBBEAN 1,200 acre resort offers lovely hillside villas, a luxurious spa and an 18 hole Par 72 golf course. This is the perfect stop for those golfers who don’t want to take a cruise because there is no golf course! Canouan offers a quiet anchorage for the yacht and guests can get up as early as they like and head to the golf course. For those guests who might not have golf at the top of their list of things to do – how about a day in one of the spa huts receiving a host of spa services? A spa hut is yours for the day – some like the huts in Bali – out over the water – and spa services are given in your hut: massages, manicures, pedicures, facials and more. After a day on the island – head back to the yacht and enjoy another magnificent Caribbean sunset. Day Five “ If you can imagine an entire island of picture perfect cottages; rainbow colored fishing boats; a story book school house; not just well manicured lawns – but an entirely manicured island!” Information If you would like more information regarding booking a charter aboard Velists, please contact Rebecca Riley at Paradise Yacht Charters, Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, FL. You can email her at: chartermail@bellsouth.net or call her directly at 954-462-0091 46 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Today we headed to the Tobago Cays, a beautiful archipelago running down to Grenada. You can almost walk from one island to the next. The water is so intensely blue that the most beautiful aquamarines would pale by comparison. There is very little in terms of development on these islands so you should come prepared with anything you may need such as food, water, ice and supplies. However, the local entrepreneurs with their fast boats seem ready and very capable of bringing fresh lobsters and even making quick runs to nearby Union Island – the largest island in the area – for supplies including things like fresh baked bread. We spent out first night in Mayreau in a quiet lagoon with a beautiful beach called Saltwhistle Bay. We met some people from France who have visited this area four to five times a year for the past fifteen years!! Ashore there is a small hotel with five cottages (eight rooms), a beach bar and restaurant. For more info on this resort go to: www.saltwhistlebay.com. Day Six The next day we continued winding down through the Cays – stopping for lunch and a leisurely swim on one of the many white sand beaches. You can even arrange with one of the locals to prepare lunch of grilled lobster, fresh fish and local side dishes for you and have it waiting for you on the beach when you arrive. We ended our day at Union Island, the largest island in the Cays and anchored in Clifton Anchorage. The water is myriad shades of blue caused by the sand bars and reefs. Beautiful to look at but something you probably don’t want to navigate after dark. Arrive early and head to Happy Island, a restaurant and bar on a tiny little spot in the middle of harbor owned and operated by Janti, a most delightful host. There are tables and chairs on the beach, hammocks and more tables and chairs under the thatched roof. With just four hours notice he’ll prepare an island BBQ for you and your guests on the island – a fun way to spend the evening ashore on your own private island. Janti monitors VHF channel 16 and can be reached at happyisland@unionisland.com. Happy Island was the perfect place to end our cruise through the St. Vincent Grenadines. Tomorrow we would cross the channel to Carriacou – the Grenadan Grenadines. Day Seven Carriacou is a pretty, well developed island. Nice houses dot the hillside and the town of Hillsborough offers all the conveniences you might need when pulling into a port. We stayed in Tyrell Bay where Johnny Walker – the man, not the scotch - is building a new marina/yacht club that will accommodate the largest of yachts and offer the finest in yachting facilities. Tyrell Bay is one of the best sheltered anchorages in the Grenadines and the marina will be a perfect place for yachties. The approach is easy and there will be great facilities. The marina portion should be complete by the start of the 2005/2006 winter season. There will also be approximately 30 very upscale residences built when the marina is complete. Day Eight Our last stop before Trinidad was Grenada. Known as a safe haven during hurricanes, Ivan in 2004 caused major damage to this beautiful island. This was the first hurricane to hit in the area in more than fifty years. We were pleasantly surprised to see that the island is back to normal and that most of the damage has been repaired or is being repaired. The economy is booming and this is a great stop on your island tour and the perfect place to begin or end your cruise of the Grenadines. Grenada offers wonderful facilities for yachts – we stayed at the Grenada Yacht Club – and has wonderful stores for stocking up with anything you might need. Of course there is also the local marketplace – a colorful place with lots of fresh local vegetables and spices. Don’t forget, Grenada is known as the “Spice Island”, so this is also a great place to stock up with the freshest of spices. During the afternoon we visited Grand Anse Beach, one of the most beautiful in the islands, then toured St. George’s University, a sprawling modern campus offering a myriad of degrees to students from all over the world (www.sgu.edu). What started as a medical school has grown to include degrees in many different fields. The evening brought us back to the Grenada Yacht Club. We were joined by friends from Grenada for drinks on the upper deck and enjoyed the refreshing sweet breezes of the island. The day – and our exploration of the Grenadines – was over. Tomorrow Velista would go home, to Trinidad, and we would say goodbye – until the next time. YVC YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM PROFILE YV&C speaks with renowned yacht designer Ward Setzer The Value of Professional Guidance PHOTO: RANIMUSTAFAPRODUCTIONS.COM Internationally acclaimed yacht designer Ward Setzer is a preeminent expert on the yachting lifestyle. Setzer-designed vessels have claimed three of the nine International Superyachts Society Design Awards given out in the last three years. His 84’ express cruiser Wombat graced the April 2005 cover of a yachting magazine, and in a recent issue of another magazine, an editor wrote that Setzer’s “critical eye for form and function have propelled him into the ranks of the world’s most sought-after yacht designers.” 48 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM S etzer explains that the rising popularity of yachts (pleasure craft 80' and above) and superyachts (150' and above) has much to do with advances in design and technology that have elevated on-board travel and living to a new level of comfort. “Whether as an owner, guest or charter passenger, living on board a modern yacht affords every luxury, accommodation and communications technology as the finest home or office,” he said, “not to mention the ultimate in privacy and service from a dedicated crew.” Stay connected or be blissfully unavailable – it’s up to you. And no, Setzer insists, you don’t need to be a billionaire to enjoy the same luxuries and pleasures that await on board the world’s finest motoryachts. However, navigating the waters of yacht ownership and chartering requires expert guidance to help you make informed decisions. Setzer’s voyage into the world of yacht design began with a simple love of the sea combined with a passion and talent for visual art. A native of Virginia, he graduated from N.C. State University as an architect and trained in naval architecture at Maine Maritime Academy. Early in his career he worked under the tutelage of Jack Hargrave, the original designer for world-renowned Hatteras Yachts, and became a top manager and designer at Hatteras before founding his own company in 1991. Based in Cary, N.C., Setzer Design Group works with discerning clients and leading shipyards in the U.S. and around the world, concepting, designing and supervising the production of yachts and superyachts in many styles from modern to classic, expedition and blue water types. When he’s not in his studio or traveling to meet clients and builders, Setzer enjoys sailing, power cruising, surfing and fishing around the world with his wife and two teenage sons. Setzer attributes numerous influences to his design sensibilities, including the naval architecture and yacht design of Jack Hargrave, Francis Herreshoff, William Hand and Bill Garden, the classic steam powered yachts of the 1920s and 30s, automobile and aviation design of the past 20 years, architects Paolo Soleri and Peter Graves and, as an overall designer and inventor, Leonardo DaVinci. A versatile, visionary talent, Setzer is known within the yachting world as a guy who can do it all. If he can’t find the right fixture, he’ll design it himself. If the right tool doesn’t exist, he’ll design one and make it himself. He not only designs the hulls and exteriors, but the systems, engineering and even the interiors – the entire vessel from YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS stem to stern. Among his peers and competition, he stands alone as a designer who can not only draw a boat, but build one. While the Setzer design portfolio has grown to include sportfishing boats, explorers, and classic express cruisers, the newest Setzer launches are tri-deck superyachts. Recently christened were the 130' Magic and the 152' Lia Fail, two of the largest composite construction yachts ever produced in the Pacific Northwest. At the time of its launch in January 2005, the 130' by 27' Magic was the largest full displacement project ever produced by Northern Marine of Anacortes, Wash. Following the launch, Magic made her initial open water voyage down the Pacific Coast, through the Panama Canal, and was delivered to her owner in Palm Beach. Both the interior and exterior styling reflect Setzer’s signature look – classic, clean lines with modern touches, always with a nod toward the timeless nautical aesthetic that so deeply influenced the designer. Lia Fail, launched in March of 2005, is the first yacht in the Opus line of luxury tri-deck motoryachts from Northern Marine. At 152' by 29.5' it is the largest vessel ever constructed by the shipyard. Like Magic, the silhouette, shadow lines and exterior detailing of Lia Fail are an artful blending of classic and contemporary design. Within the main saloon, staterooms, lounges, dining room and galley, the woodwork alone is a stunning example of Setzer’s obsession with detail and style. While luxurious and superbly crafted, there is a conscious absence of overstatement throughout Lia Fail, and a premium on comfort. Setzer calls on his skills and passions as a naval architect, master yacht stylist and a lover of all things aquatic to translate his clients’ dreams into a build- Magic 130’ Tri-Deck Surprise 115’ Expedition Yacht VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 49 PROFILE Setzer Staff Ward Setzer with Shelly Peterson, Designers Kevin Burns and Andrew Major. PHOTO: RANIMUSTAFAPRODUCTIONS.COM ”Design is a journey, and an endless learning process. No matter what level our past projects have reached, we continue to strive to innovate with each new design. A designer must above all else be an artist able to control, manipulate, and craft any medium to results beyond cliché. The result remains that each new project goes a step beyond all expectations” — Ward Setzer 50 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 able plan, and then guide the plan through construction to final launch. Even beyond the christening and initial sea trials, his relationships with the boat and its owners often continue for years. “We become like family,” he said. “It’s part of our responsibility to design vessels that are not only one-of-a-kind works of art, but safe and seaworthy as well – the old naval term is ‘duty of care,’ and we take that as seriously as we do the art of comfort and luxury.” One example from Setzer’s portfolio of custom superyachts is a recent design commissioned by an owner who wanted a vessel to take him, his family and friends to the world’s best surfing locations. Setzer, an avid surfer himself, designed the 150' yacht to nimbly negotiate challenging coastal reefs and underwater hazards, and included enough on-board jet skis and motor launches to reach the breaks. A special room was also designed to accommodate the surfers’ boards, wet suits and other gear to make the experience as complete and thought-through as possible. So what makes a good boat, and how does one determine what kind of yacht is best for them? As in all design, according to Setzer, it’s in the bones. Below any beautiful skin there must be a well-designed seagoing hull form. There must be advanced engineering, electronics, systems and safety features. Add to that a proper balance of exterior and interior details that are both practical and distinctive, in keeping with the owner’s vision and personal style. “A great boat to one person may not be so to another, so the purpose and intended use is key,” said Setzer. “The environment of one of our vessels in Fiji is totally different than that of one based in south Florida, just as a boat based in the Mediterranean is specifically designed for that location. It all starts with listening to the client and knowing what kind of experience they most desire.” Today, approximately 6,000 yachts are under active commission around the world, a number that has doubled in the last 10 years, according to a magazine report. Roughly 100 new yachts will be launched this year, ranging in price from around $5 million for an 80' vessel to an average of $20 million for a 150' superyacht. The average cost of the vessels on www.forbes.com’s recent list of the 10 most expensive yachts in the world was $64.37 million (noticeably absent from the list were two of the world’s largest yachts, 400+ foot behemoths owned by competing software moguls Larry Ellison and Paul Allen). Owners spend at least an additional 10 percent of the purchase price in annual maintenance and operating costs, plus captain, crew, fuel and supplies. To Ward Setzer, it is not a question of how big or how expensive a boat is, but how well the design will enable and enhance the quality of the experience the owner has envisioned. “Our philosophy isn’t concerned with how many or how big,” Setzer said, “but rather with putting original masterpieces out there – unique to their owner’s requirements – while being objects that do not visually pollute harbors around the world but rather enhance them.” Setzer admits, however, that worldwide demand is growing for bigger and bigger yachts. This spring he unveiled the design for a new 210' megayacht, his biggest ever. The exclusivity of the yachting industry, with affluent clients seeking the ultimate in quality, luxury and uniqueness, affords the yacht designer the opportunity to provide a level of engineering, innovation and artistry limited only by one’s skill and imagination. “As designers,” he said, “we are in the right place at the right time to practice a craft we love.” Owning a yacht of any size is a commitment only to be undertaken with the most trusted professional guidance. That guidance can come from a designer such as Ward Setzer, a shipyard, a boat captain, a yacht broker or another owner. Be advised that signing with a yacht broker in the process of buying a boat is similar to signing with a real estate agent. If you sign with a broker, the broker is entitled to a commission on the sale whether he had anything to do with the sale or not. Thus, there are brokers who will hard-sell any potential buyer to “list” that individual, should he move forward in the process. Caution and good judgment are critical when considering representation in the boat-buying process. “Do your homework,” Setzer advises. Likewise, Setzer insists, do competitive research if you are considering a yacht charter. Safety, comfort and service while on the water are essential for you and your friends, family or business associates to enjoy the yachting lifestyle to its fullest. YVC For more information on Setzer Design Group, visit www.setzerdesign.com YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM www.ocean-independence.com 30 years of experience in luxury yacht vacations Best yachts. Best places. Best crews. Brokerage Fort Lauderdale | Antibes | | Charter Barcelona | | Düsseldorf Call Ray Weldon in Fort Lauderdale at +1 954 524 93 66 or +1 800 929 9366 or send an email to charter@ocyachts.com Former companies: New Construction | Geneva | | Consulting Services Monaco | Palma de Mallorca | | Management Uster | United Kingdom | Zürich YACHT SHOW Simply the Best in the Big Boat Business PHOTO: PIERRE PETTAVINO The Monaco Yacht Show will thrill you with super yachts and a jet set ambiance to match For luxury yachting enthusiasts, what better combination than a display of the world’s best super and mega yachts anchored in the prestigious and fairytale port of Monaco with its magnificent views of the Alps and the Mediterranean sea, nestled between its equally exotic neighbours of the French and Italian Rivieras. The guaranteed weather is perfect WRITTEN BY PAULA FARQUHARSON for taking a test sail of these giant symbols of elegance and sailing perfection. The balmy temperatures also facilitate plenty of outdoor partying with an elite crowd, an added attraction for those who will gather this September from the 21st to 24th at Port Hercule for the world’s premier luxury yacht show. 52 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOS: PIERRE PETTAVINO T he reason to visit is because the Monaco Yacht Show (MYS) is the only nautical trade show in the world with a focus on boats of 20m and over. It will not fail to impress you - the location alone is one of the keys to its success. Gigantic and sumptuous yachts with their tall masts reach up to the French Alps, shadowed by miniature skyscrapers that make up the small but richly endowed town of Monte-Carlo, which clings to cliffs that hover over a blue azure Mediterranean Sea. This tiny principality of Monaco and its beautiful old town, Monte Carlo perched high on “the Rock” has traditionally drawn the jet set thanks to its privileged image, which continues to sparkle. Despite the sad passing away of their much loved head of state Prince Rainier III (husband to the late Princess Grace and founder of the Monaco Yacht Club) in April this year, Monegasques have found renewed life with the recent appointment of his only son Prince Albert II, who assumed state responsibilities in July. The special occasion was celebrated by throwing a huge outdoor party for residents. Another milestone was reached recently in June when the MYS organisers celebrated its 15th year anniversary with a splendid party at the exclusive Méridien Beach Plaza hotel, taking the occasion to YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS announce changes that will improve this year’s show, if that is possible. The show’s success is already evident in the quality and volume of super yachts and international visitors that attend. For the past seven years it has seen considerable expansion but this year organisers have decided to halt the growth, limiting the total surface area to 14,000sqm, in favour of providing a more accessible and user friendly show for the 21,000 visitors expected. What’s New this Year? New features include increasing the size of the air-conditioned areas on Darse Sud and Parvis Piscine as well as confining the show to within the port’s perimeter for easier access. Luc Pettavino, the show organizer, states, “Monaco seems to be an obvious choice for holding a yacht show. It is an exceptional backdrop, which conveys an image of luxury and exclusivity.” PHOTO: LAURENT DI MICHIEL Information Monaco Yacht Show 57, rue Grimaldi Monte-Carlo 98000 Monaco Tel: +377 93 10 41 70 Fax: +377 93 10 41 71 www.monacoyachtshow.com For private individuals the entrance fee into MYS is €40 Euros per person, per day. Under 12 year-olds are free. For yachting professionals, a 4-day package costs €40 per person. What’s So Special? The common denominator that sets these yachts apart is not just their size, but that they are all outstanding in their class, and for the most part unique one-offs. The MYS is the biggest floating display of yachts from 20 to over 80 meters, of which 60% are between 40 and 50 meters, and 15% are over 50 meters. About the Writer Paula Farquharson is editor of The Riviera Times newspaper. Originally from Ireland, she worked in New York and is now based in Nice, France, where she learned to sail. PFarquharson@yachtchartersmagazine.com VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 53 YACHT SHOW The Monaco Yacht Show is the only international yacht show devoted exclusively to luxury yachting, featuring the biggest in-water display in Europe of super and mega yachts in an international showcase of luxury products and luxury yachting. You will also find every type of luxurious accessory and interior decorating idea with which to pamper your yacht from teak decks, Jacuzzis, and satellite telephone systems to mini-submarines. The advantage of the MYS is that it brings together all sectors of luxury yachting, including many of the world’s leading shipyards, brokers, engine makers, naval architects, designers, tenders, equipment manufacturers, and a growing number of service providers - the full spectrum of the industry related to yachts over 20 meters is well represented. Who Is Attending? PHOTO: LAURENT DI MICHIEL Apart from the Prince, who traditionally makes an appearance, amateur enthusiasts, wealthy owners and shipping magnates, there will be 590 exhibitors and 93 yachts (up from 65 yachts 5 years ago). Potential clients will be present for the world previews of 30 to 40 motor and sailing yachts on their world premier launches or being delivered in 2005. There will also be 37 brokers, 46 naval architects and interior designers in the designer gallery, 15 refit and repair shipyards, 202 equipment manufacturers, 74 service providers, 17 luxury brands, 16 tenders and 12 federations – enough to educate you on all aspects of the business and discover new and exotic charters and destinations to steer that dream yacht. Don’t forget despite the mega sizes in evidence at this event there is an entry level for everyone in chartering. Expect to hear the chatter of multiple languages around you as exhibitors in attendance will be representing more than 38 nationalities, but English is widely spoken. High Purchase Power Shopping A selection of the big yachts to be seen Tiara (2004): 54.27 meters sailing yacht from Edminston & Company at Berth E10. Ambrosia III (2005): 65 meters motor yacht from Benetti at Berth EO1 Admiral 31 (2005): 31.5 meters from Admiral CNL at Berth N13 White Lie (2005): 47.5 meters motor yacht from Camper & Nicholson International at Berth EO5 Blue Moon (2005): 61 meters motor yacht from Feadship at line Blue Moon (2000): 51.29 meters motor yacht from Fraser Yachts at Berth E13 Floridian (2002, refit 2005): 66.44 meters motor yacht from International Yacht Collection at Berth TO2 Phocea (1975, refit 1997/99): 75.15 meters sailing yacht from Nigel Burgess Group at Berth N01 Salacia (2005): 33.7 meters motor yacht from Nigel Burgess Group at Berth T Central 2nd Line Haida (1929, refit 2005): 71.1 meters motor yacht from Ocean Independence at Berth T Central 2nd Line Lady Christina (2005): 62 meters motor yacht from OceanCo at Berth T03 Annaliesse (2004): 85.3 meters anchored outside the harbour Shiver (2005): 32.9 meters motor yacht from Sunseeker International at Berth CO3 54 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Behind the relaxed feel to this superb show is a flurry of high level negotiating for the purchase and sale of some of the most expensive yachts in the world. Potential customers are invited to seminars, dinners, drinks parties on board or in any of the prestigious restaurants and night life haunts that echo the jet set and tailor-made lifestyle yacht owners enjoy. So if you are shopping for a yacht, expect top notch treatment from those trying to woo you to buy. Add to that the thrill of a test drive of one of these big babies and you are in for a few days to remember. But most exhibitors are happy to let anyone visiting the show to step on board for a browse – it’s not necessary to flash a platinum credit card. So why not mark the date in your diary and look forward to a unique experience with a cocktail of mega yachts, Riviera revelry and sightseeing opportunities unique to this sought-after part of the sailing world. YVC YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM LUXURIOUS PRIVATE YACHTS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD FOR CHARTER Relax on one of the hundreds of private beaches in the Caribbean. Experience the excitement of Monaco, St.Tropez, Cannes or anywhere in the Riveria. Explore charming New England OR . . . venture to the new charter “hot spot” the incredible coast of Croatia. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS PARADISE YACHT CHARTERS + (954)462-0091 chartermail@bellsouth.net www.paradiseyachtcharters.com VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 55 COMPANY PROFILE Classically Stylish and Eternally Chic Camper & Nicholsons International luxury yachting vacations have it all M/Y Kanaloa Kanaloa represents a refined example of understatement, where interior finish standards and quality of life on board have been raised to achieve a level of satisfaction seldom seen on any yacht. Her open deck areas offer a relaxing combination of Jacuzzi , sunbathing pads and bar area on the top deck with a cleverly-designed satcom arch and awning that provides shade. Her full-width master cabin offers good views on both sides, and with no side decks forward, maintains privacy. 56 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM There are few who can resist the allure of the charter lifestyle, and for those who step on board a luxury, crewed yacht, the truly unique experience and the opportunity to M/Y “KANALOA” relax is far removed from the hectic schedule of everyday life. P roviding a passport to some of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world, enjoy the world in the private splendour of the 48m Kanaloa. With mouth-watering cuisine, exemplary service and world-class accommodation, a vacation onboard Kanaloa extends far beyond the limits of any five star experience. Kanaloa is a beautiful example of subtle yet exceptional style. Her Zuretti designed interior generates a calm ambience, perfect for relaxation. Meanwhile, her extensive deck areas offer many appealing attractions, such as a Jacuzzi, huge sunbathing pads and a bar area on the top deck with a subtly designed satcom arch and awning for some welcome shade. Whether anchored to swim and laze in azure waters, or dine formally or informally under the stars – a yacht charter through CNI will infinitely broaden your horizons. Any island, any direction, anywhere you want to go – the opportunities are endless. Journey along the historic Amalfi Coast and the more remote Italian islands. City-hop with a summer cruise along the United States’ North East Coast. Alternatively, if a glamorous, jet-set social life is more to your taste, we can arrange for your charter to tie in with one of the many world-famous events: the Monaco Grand Prix, the America’s Cup, or the Cannes Film Festival. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS There is no other industry that equals the intimate first-hand experience that charter brokers have of each yacht - its food, décor, crew, facilities and accommodation. Trained to customize a holiday to the individual client, CNI charter brokers guarantee to cater to your exacting requirements and tastes. Whether it is provisioning the yacht with your favourite wine; arranging a surprise anniversary party; or organising transfers, excursions, restaurant reservations or a game of golf, your yacht charter agent, captain and crew will ensure that once you step on board you have the time of your life. Wherever in the world you have dreamed of visiting, you can be assured there is no better way to see it than from the decks of your own private super yacht. Pure style all the way - there is simply no comparison. YVC Specifications Length:......................................157.48’ [48m] Beam: .......................................29.86’ [9.1m] Draft: ..............................................9.84’ [3m] Builder: ...................................................CRN Year: ....................................................... 1996 Engines: ..........................Two 2,285hp Deutz Speed: ...................................... 14 / 17 knots Leisure: ......................... 6.9m Nautica tender ...................................... 6.9m Custom tender .................................. 2 x Waverunner XL 800 ........................................ Aquafin sailing boat ............................................... 2 x windsurfers ........................................... 2 x Ocean Kayaks .................... Water skis and other water toys ........................ Scuba diving equipment for 6 ....................................Snorkelling equipment ..................................Light fishing equipment ...................... Precor EFX 546 Eliptical Trainer Prices to.....................US$195,000 per week Information Cruising Area Winter: ........................................... Caribbean Summer: .................... Mediterranean - West To inquire about chartering Kanaloa of any other yacht in the CNI fleet visit www.cnconnect.com or call CNI Palm Beach + 1 561 655 2121 CNI Fort Lauderdale +1 954 524 4250 or CNI London + 44 207 491 2950 Accommodations Cabin types: .... 3 Doubles, 2 Twins, 1 Single Cabins: ......................................................... 6 Guests: ....................................................... 12 Crew: ...........................................................11 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 57 FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP Follow the Sun Owning a piece of a yacht guarantees a warm escape all year long WRITTEN BY JAMIE MATUSOW If you’ve been toying with the idea of purchasing a yacht, but don’t want the burden of maintaining one, owning one for a few weeks a year can be the answer. H About the Writer Jamie Matusow is a freelance writer based in New York. jbmatusow@optonline.net 58 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 ave you ever sat on the finely groomed sands of a five-star beach resort and gazed enviously at a yacht offshore, thinking how nice it would be to incorporate a sea excursion into your vacation? Have you thought about purchasing a yacht, but are not sure just how much you would use it? If so, you may be intrigued with a program that enables you to own a yacht—for three weeks a year. You’ll have no worries about crew or maintenance, no worries about transporting it to seasonal locations. All you’ll have to do is schedule your three weeks a year and everything will be arranged for you. Just as with upscale vacation homes, yacht fractional ownership is a growing trend. David Perich, VP of sales and marketing for Luxurious Lifestyles at Sea (LL at Sea), based in Fort Lauderdale, explains why the idea is becoming increasingly popular. “Our program is designed for the person who wants to own a $5- or 6-million yacht, but will use it for only about three weeks a year.” With fractional ownership, participants still own property, but are not tied to all the responsibilities that go along with it. Owners don’t have to pay out a large sum in the beginning, and after three or four years they can sell the yacht and upgrade. That’s why, says Perich, unlike other companies that offer joint ownership of previously owned yachts, LL at Sea features a brand-new vessel for their program. Careful consideration was put into just what type of boat would work best to meet the demands of fractional ownership participants. As their premier offering, LL at Sea has selected a 2005 80ft Hatteras motoryacht with an open bridge, four staterooms, and separate crew quarters. “It’s constructed and manufactured in such a way,” says Perich, “that it’s easy to maintain and get parts if needed.” And, he adds, “It’s got an incredible PC monitoring system.” The yacht also boasts spacious bars and entertainment areas, plasma screens throughout, and plenty of water toys including snorkeling equipment, Jet Skis, and a tender. A shallow draft makes it easy to get in and out of small coves, and a wide beam ensures a smooth ride. While the yacht itself is gorgeous, Perich stresses that it’s the company’s dedication to service that makes LL at Sea’s fractional ownership opportunity so desirable. He emphasizes that “no” is not a word when it comes to honoring owners requests. He has been in the high-end concierge services industry for more than two decades and says he knows what affluent clients demand and how to comply with their wishes. The company has even enlisted experts in the yachting and hotel industries to prepare detailed itineraries designed to show owners’ exactly what they can do in any number of days they have available. “Follow the Sun” is the company’s slogan, because they plan to locate the yacht according to the season. Summers will find it as far north as Annapolis, while a hint of cold will send it down toward Fort Lauderdale and on to the British Virgin Islands. A full-time three-person crew – consisting of captain, first mate, and chef – will be at your disposal 24 hours a day. The yacht is being offered with 1/12th ownership interests, entitling each owner to 21 days aboard. (The remaining days will be used for relocation of the yacht, crew vacations, and scheduled services.) An annual fee covers cleaning, insurance, maintenance, crew services, and seasonal movement of the yacht. Variable costs per week include fuel, dockage, food, and drink. For those who want all the advantages of owning a yacht without the responsibilities, a fractional purchase can be the way to go. YVC Information For more information, contact: David Perich at Luxurious Lifestyles at Sea, 866 577-7701, www.luxuriouslifestyles.net YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Realize the Dream FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP OF ONE OF THE MOST EXCEPTIONAL YACHTS IN THE WORLD Luxurious Lifestyles at Sea 866-577-7701 4830 W. KENNEDY BLVD., SUITE 695 FAX: 727-372-1972 • INFO@LLATSEA.COM TAMPA, FL 33609 WWW.LLATSEA.COM This offer is not directed to residents in any state [or the offer is void in any states] in which registration of the timeshare plan is required but in which registration requirements have not yet been met. This advertising material is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of timeshare interests. LUXURY GOODS Baggage Excess These bags have character, consider taking one on your next charter! Resilient Made by Bric’s, a 50+ year old luggage company from the Lake Como area in Italy, these bags will be easy to pack, easy to carry and hard to damage – the material is waterproof and highly resistant to impact. “Bojola” Tuscan box car, $930 and Tuscan valise $525 Available at www.brics.it Minimalist When all you need are the essentials, such as a bathing suit and a pair of shoes, this distinctly Prada bag fits the bill. Prada canvas and leather bag, $985, Available at www.neimanmarcus.com Chic Perfect for smaller essentials such as shoes or toiletries, the Louis Vuitton Antigua collection seems to be the perfect choice for your charter to the Caribbean – or anywhere. Sac Week-End $910, Medium Tote $630 Available at www.vuitton.com Lavish From the Schedoni family, the exclusive maker of custom leather goods for yacht manufacturers such as Benetti, Ferretti and Riva and luxury car manufacturers such as Ferrari and Mercedes Benz, Schedoni leather goods easily parallel their maritime and automotive counterparts. TR-022 $2,800, TR-020 $2,600 Available at 305-529-9999 or www.schedoni.com 60 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ��������������������� ��������������������������� Customized crewed charters aboard 10 of the finest owner-operated Alaskan yachts available Whale watching • Gourmet food • Great family trips Wildlife encounters • Quaint small villages • Fishing, Crab, Shrimp Sea kayaking, Hiking • Quiet isolated anchorages Come be a part of the real Alaska with experienced Alaskan Crews www.Alaska-Charter-Yachts.com Info@Alaska-Charter-Yachts.com Greek Islands Sailing Explore the beauty of the Greek Islands in one of our charter yachts, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime. Use our 25 years of experience to plan your itinerary, and choose the perfect yacht for your vacation from our large selection of yachts. Visit our website http://www.alphayachting.com USA: 1-954-234 2203, email: info@alphayachting.com GREECE: +30 210 9680486/7, Fax. +30 210 9680488, mano@otenet.gr YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 61 CRUISING CIGAR MAN Travel Humidors Safe Harbor for your cigars Laser Engraved Having your name, company logo, or an event that you attended on your travel case goes the extra mile WRITTEN BY GARY KORB Before you sail off to the next port of call with your cigars, you’ll need a travel humidor that will keep your precious cargo out of harm’s way. Whether it’s a simple pocket humidor or an elaborate attaché case, the humidor must do two things for your cigars: keep them fresh and protect them. A About the Writer Gary Korb is the resident cigar guru at Famous Smoke Shop (www.FamousSmoke.com) in Easton, PA. He has been enjoying the wonderful world of cigars for over 25 years. gary@yachtchartersmagazine.com 62 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 ccording to Michael Chunko, President & CEO of Csonka Worldwide, one the cigar industry’s leading makers of customcigar cases, a good cigar case will keep the cigars properly humidified. A great cigar case will provide good humidity, but will do so with style, elegance and a lot of security. You don’t want your cigars rolling around loose. So what does the cigar smoking traveler need to consider before choosing the proper case? “I look at three things with regard to making a buying decision,” says Chunko. “First, the amount of cigars you want the humidor to hold while you travel. For most people, a 4-5 cigar case is perfect because it’s a good size for the golf course, the casino, business meetings, dinners, etc. Additionally, if you’re traveling, it gives you some space to add cigars you may buy on your trip. “Secondly, what are you trying to accomplish? For some cigar smokers, plastic baggies are fine, but most cigar enthusiasts want a humidified case that holds their cigars securely and reflects their personal sense of style. That goes to the third aspect: being comfortable with the size of the case, its design, and even the color.” Another way to truly customize your case is with laser engraving. “This has been a big success with many of our corporate clients who have had cases customized YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Davidoff 90810 This humidified Davidoff 90810 travel model offers a genuine wood finish like your home humidor for everything from sales meetings, to awards dinners, to golf outings, fundraisers and other events. We’ve customized cases for wedding parties and even for rock bands like Aerosmith. Being able to have your name, company logo, or an event that you attended on the case really goes the extra mile.” Michael Chunko The best travel humidors are lined with Spanish cedar, include a humidification device, have some form of padded material, preformed slots, or a brace to hold the cigars in place, and include additional accessories like a cutter and a hygrometer. Only 20-25% of the cases physically include a humidity device. If you count the popular “finger” style leather cases, which actually pull the humidity out of your cigars (true!), the number is even lower. “Built-in humidification should be the primary reason for anyone to buy a travel case,” say’s Chunko. “Otherwise it’s just a case.” Some humidity devices are better than others, particularly when it comes to travel. The popular green floral “oasis” foam used in most desktop and display humidifiers works well in a desktop environment, and as a result, many travel cases also come with similar floral foam humidifiers. Chunko prefers to use terracotta humidity elements in his cases. Travel case humidifiers fluctuate a lot, and when not in use, dry out. When floral foam dries it has a tendency to break up and emit a potentially hazardous dust. According to his research, the government has published an MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) on floral foam. The reason why oasis foam is fine for desktop humidors is they are continually moist so they rarely YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS dry out completely. The terracotta device absorbs and holds water well with no disintegration of the material, so it’s much safer, cleaner and it has more longevity. Wick-type humidifiers can also be used in lieu of floral foam. Csonka also includes pipettes in many of their cases. These are capped, refillable, eyedroppertype devices that hold distilled water. They can be used to replenish any loss of humidity in the travel case right then and there, so you don’t have to wait until you get home to refill. Some other important things about cigar humidors and humidity: the wood inside the humidor plays the biggest role in humidification, because the wood holds much more moisture than the humidifier alone. The humidifying device is only there to maintain the ebb and flow of the system as the wood continually absorbs and releases moisture. Although most cigar smokers are focused on keeping their humidity at an “ideal” 70%, the truth is, the acceptable range is actually 65-75%, so you have a lot more headroom than you think. Even on the water, where one might presume that the humidity is relatively sufficient, you can still encounter fluctuations. You can be in one part of the world one day where the climate is damp and a few days later, somewhere else where it’s very dry. This further drives home the basic precept of the case being able to maintain proper humidity no matter where you are on the planet. So, before you decide which case is right for your particular travel needs, kick the tires; inspect the case for size, quality of materials and functionality. The rule of caveat emptor greatly applies here. You’ve invested good money in your cigars. Protect them well and they’ll love you back. Happy sails! YVC “A great travel humidor provides proper humidity, safety and style” The Csonka Traveler Everything you need to keep your cigars safe and sound VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 63 LUXURY GOODS 2005 Bentley Arnage R REVIEW BY JOSH MAX D esigned for speed as well as style enthusiasts, The Arnage R’s a sweet pleasure to drive, look at and be seen in. You can wear pajamas as you arrive at any function and people will still treat you as though you were royalty. It takes a bit of getting used to its sheer weight; even cracking a door or popping the trunk is like opening a bank vault. Though most people associate a car of this value with a chauffeur, you’ll want to navigate it yourself, it’s that much of a pleasure behind the wheel. A 6.8-liter V-8 with twin turbochargers rockets you ahead as though you’re driving a sports car. Unlike some engines in big, heavy cars which can lag when you’re trying to step on it, the Arnage R’s monstrous furnace allows you to hurtle through space instantaneously. As you drive, your entire body is soothed, coddled and exhilarated all at once; eyes, nose, ears all get the Bentley experience. Expect plenty of attention in your neighborhood and beyond. Handling for ’05 is better thanks to suspension improvements and the car turns more sharply than ever before, no small feat given its weight of 5,699 pounds. Bentley’s added round Xenon clear-lens headlights with integrated turn indica- 64 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 tors, and a new hood. With a nod to 21st century technology, the car’s electronically programmed to adapt its settings to suit the road surface. A DVD entertainment system, personal computer with wireless keyboard, television set and a bevy of audio systems, including multi-CD changers and an MP3 player, are available. BMW’s Rolls Royce Phantom and Daimler-Chrysler’s Maybach may carry more heart-stopping stickers, but there is absolutely no compromise in the Arnage R’s design, speed and flash for its lesser price. Interior Signature Bentley, all leather, chrome, class and comfort. There’s a new center console, a new control panel for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and a new switch pack with repositioned controls for window lifts, seat and mirror switches. 2005 Bently Arnage R Specifications Price: ................................................$211,990 Engine:................. 6.75 litre, turbocharged V8 Horsepower: ...................................... 400 hp Torque: ....................... 646 pound-feet torque 0-60: ............................................5.5 seconds 0-100 mph ........................................ 15.4 sec Top Speed: ..................................... 168 MPH Mileage: .......................... 10 city; 14 highway Miles Driven: ............................................200 Body Material: ................Steel - Monocoque Exterior A signature rounded, old-school English-looking rear and a Fort Knox-style hood with sharply carved lines angling in toward the grille create an image of elegance, class and means. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM BVIsailing.com GALAPAGOSsailing.com 800-648-3393 YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 65 YACHT PROFILE PHOTO: THIERRY AMELLER GALAXY T he recently launched 56m GALAXY from the Italian yard was designed inside and out by Stefano Natucci. Her vibrant interior is filled with exotic timbers and leather panelling, and a glass lift which also acts as an atrium. With plenty of areas for dining, including the semi circular dining room on the upper deck which can be opened onto the aft deck for alfresco dining. Information To inquire about chartering Galaxy or any other yacht in the CNI fleet visit www.cnconnect.com or call CNI Palm Beach + 1 561 655 2121 CNI Fort Lauderdale +1 954 524 4250 or CNI London + 44 207 491 2950 66 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Information Prices From: .............................. €175,000 per week Cruising Area Winter: ........................................... Caribbean Summer: .............. West/East Mediterranean Accommodations Guests: .......................................................12 Crew:...........................................................13 Cabins: ..........................................................6 Galaxy’s Owner’s suite on the main deck has panoramic views from the saloon. The VIP cabin is on the upper deck and four more guest cabins on the lower, comprising two doubles and two twins. Specifications Length:............................................ 184’/56m Beam: .............................................34’/10.4m Draught: ...........................................10.2’/3m Builder: .............................................. Benetti Designer: .............................. Stefano Natucci Interior Designer: ................ Stefano Natucci Year: ........................................................2005 Engines: ................................ Twin Cat 3512B Cruising Speed: ...............................15 knots Leisure Novurania 660dl with twin 90hp Yamaha O/B’s, 2 x Yamaha Wave Runners, 2 x Sunfish sailboats, 2 x Kayaks, Windsurfer, Assortment of towable toys YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM DESTINATIONS... — CARIBBEAN — MEDITERRANEAN — NEW ENGLAND — FLORIDA/BAHAMAS — ALASKA — GALAPAGOS ISLANDS If you’re looking for that special luxury vacation experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories – let Angela Connery Yacht Charters help you with the details of your plans. Call Toll Free 877.741.4448 © COPYRIGHT 2004 ANGELA CONNERY YACHT CHARTERS, INC. INTERNATIONAL YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS MAGAZINE www.acyachtcharters.com YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 67 TRAVEL LOG Just Add Water! The adventerues of running a yacht from Maryland to Florida About the Writer Stuart Snyder has traveled all over the world and has experienced most of life’s luxurious pleasures. As a dotcom success, he has built and owned luxurious villas and a resort and has refined the traveling lifestyle. He has owned a number of yachts and currently owns a luxury travel and charter company. Catering to the most refined clients, www.WorldClassLuxury.com provides yachts, villas, and private jets around the world. rss@worldclassluxury.com 68 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Thirty-five years ago I sat on mom’s lap riveted to her every word as she told stories about Jacques Cousteau (whom I met), pirates of the North Atlantic, and ghost ships galore. Little did I know that I would revisit these stories in real life. Yes, my mom is a saint, and she inspired me to pursue my dreams. Here is one of my fondest. WRITTEN BY STUART SNYDER T here are three North American motorized voyages that I have wanted to make and that everyone should make once in their lifetime. This is my story about one of the most exciting. By the way those voyages are... 1. Driving from Cabo san Lucas, Mexico, to San Francisco. 2. Driving from Massachusetts to Key West, Florida. 3. Running a yacht from Annapolis, Maryland, down the Intracoastal Waterway to Florida, the Bahamas, and beyond. I’m no Hemingway but, if you bear with me, you’ll know what not to do when traveling the Intracoastal. My most recent journey started on a cold and forbidding day in December, 2004. I departed from the Indian River inlet in Delaware bound for Annapolis after purchasing a refurbished Hatteras Sports Fisher. The very first day was an expensive disaster as we took on water, lost an engine, and limped into a small town in Delaware at two in the morning. The Delaware Bay can be very unforgiving in late December. On the first leg I spent $20,000, lost one of my best friends, and almost died running in fog that was thicker than a bad batch of turkey gravy. It might help if I give the readers a little background on my world. In December of 1999 my dot-com company was purchased by a Fortune 25 company and was part of one of the largest e-commerce purchases in dot-com history. Yeah, it only took me 20 years to become successful overnight! There were years in which my maids made more money than I did...The day it hit I cried like a baby, having achieved my life-long dream at the age of 39, or so I thought. I started a charter company to provide my clients with yachts, jets, and villas all over the world. I felt my special insight as an owner and luxury traveler would enable me to provide valuable knowledge to my clients and friends. On with the show...part of the joy and excitement of any voyage is the anticipation. Months before my departure I lived on the Internet, finding software, cruising guides, and Intracoastal war stories every day. My provisioning included the prerequisite trip to Target with mom in tow, buying all the staples for my voyage. Although I tried to become familiar with various ports of call beforehand, I refused to chart arrival dates, not knowing what my daily mileage would be. This turned out to be appropriate as I spent three weeks awaiting the Daytona 500, and two more weeks awaiting the Super Bowl. My pretrip planning included $3,000 worth of maintenancerelated work in order to be shipshape. Although I have lived on yachts before, I have not captained one for any distance so for this trip I decided to hire a licensed captain for the first leg. What a mistake. I departed day one full of zest and lathered with Old Spice – I couldn’t hide the euphoria I had looked forward to this day for years. Day one was overcast with 15 knot winds and 4’–6’ seas in the Delaware Bay with the wind temps at 36 degrees. We were headed for Annapolis through the C and D canal. Two hours into the voyage the port engine began to blow black smoke and I recommended that the captain shut it down so as not to cause damage to the Volvo Penta. He chose to ignore that request and we spent the next 30 minutes losing more and more power. The seas were around 6 feet and, as any seasoned mariner knows, running in bad seas with one engine is no picnic. Finally the captain went below and noticed that we were taking on water as a 5-inch strainer had blown and was literally pumping seawater 4 feet into the air filter. Diesel engines may be water cooled, but it’s not wise to cool them through the turbo chargers. So with a bellyful of seawater and making 5 knots we changed course and headed for the nearest and only marina! We limped into the marina at 2 a.m. after 10 hours of rough sees and ice crusted all over my foul-weather gear. The next morning I awoke to a spectacular winter morning in Delaware. Canadian geese dotted the skies, reminding me YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ��������� ������������������ ������������������ ������������������� �� ��������������������� �� ����������������� ���������������������������������������� �� ���������������� ����������������������������������������� �� ���������������� �������������������������������������� �� ������� ������������������������������������ �� ������� ����������������������������������� �� ������������������������ � ��������������������� ������������������������� ������������������������ (Restored to almost brand new condition!) �������������������������������������� ���������������������������� ���������������������������������� ����������������������������� ������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������ YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS ����������������������������������������� ������������������ ����������������������������� VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 69 TRAVEL LOG of my childhood years hunting and fishing on the Eastern shore of Maryland. Right out of Michener’s Chesapeake! The flyway was littered with these marvelous creatures heading south as if to lead the way...how I yearned to be with them. Then the mechanic yanked me back to reality with the “good news”: the captain had blown a piston due to running the engines too long after noticing the smoke. I knew that this layover would take some time so I called on a lifelong friend that I had not seen in years. Ronnie and I first met when the headmaster of our private school decided to make examples of us by putting a bowl on our heads and giving us a haircut. The next week we got caught selling firecrackers at school – we became immediate best friends. One week and $7,000 later I fired up the engines with my friend Ronnie on board and my resolve to move on unbroken. The Delaware Bay was again very rough with seas around 6 feet. Winter on the bay is unbearable, as winds rip in from Aqualibrium Here is the Spectacular “Aqualibrium” 132’ CRN Ancona built and designed by Walter Franchini. 70 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 the northeast creating those dreaded nor’easters. Running into these winds is merciless as the only other vessel we saw was a 150’ Coast Guard cutter. Ahhhhhhhh, the C and O Canal. Built to connect the top of the Chesapeake Bay and the Delaware Bay for commerce, this waterway is pristine and calm, as it is protected from the elements. What a beautiful site! As I turned the yacht and headed west, I cranked the Volvo Penta up to 2600 rpms and held my breath as the turbos kicked in – 25, 26, 27, 30 knots and screaming! Seconds later 30, 27, 26, 25 and belching white smoke. Ronnie ran below and pulled the hatch as the port engine bled white smoke and belched diesel oil. Eight days and counting, I had made 38 miles. Should make Florida by Feb. 2006! Ronnie was petrified and truly thought we were sinking. What started out as a civil day trip quickly became a shouting match as I desperately needed him to help and he was paralyzed with fear. Ronnie bailed in a fit and I was left alone again, one less friend and lots more heartache. The mechanics from Dover arrived shortly thereafter and took my Hatteras pack to the marina. Three days before Christmas I was informed that the vessel need four more pistons as a result of the first incident, and the only pistons were 18,000 miles away at the Volvo plant in Sweden. Since Volvo celebrates Christmas and New Years, the parts would not ship until January 2, 10 days later, so two more weeks in Dover, Delaware. The good news was that they were expecting a warm front for Christmas and the temps reached a scorching 29 degrees. Next time you plan to go south for the winter, remember that you have to get there first. My winter clothing choices were foul-weather gear: overalls and duck shoes, in two styles yellow and orange. Fortunately Ronnie left me a camouflaged full-face hat...very stylish and perfect for Dover as the hunting season was in full swing. Onward and upward. The mechanics finished the job Friday afternoon as I prepared to depart with renewed vigor and a bellyful of turkey. When I received the bill I confused it with a bill of sale: $13,500 – cash. Of course, the banks were closed until Monday. So three days later I paid my bill in cash and then paid the mechanic to load my 15’ jet boat on the bow and strap it down for the long journey ahead. Big mistake, when you want something done right, do it yourself. This would haunt me for the next 500 miles. After checking the weather and saying my Hail Marys I went back to the Delaware Bay and headed due south. Alone and fearless, I throttled up. The air was cold and crisp and at first light the engines purred their approval. Four hours later I began to appreciate the value of proper training. Twenty years before I had gotten my pilot’s license. Little did I know it would save my life. When the dew point approaches the air temp, fog develops. True to form and 20 miles out in the middle of the shipping channel, the fog rolled in like a Hitchcock movie and the seas were my angry friends. Having learned to use radar while flying, I turned on my trusty Furuno and navigated in 0 visibility by radar alone in one of the busiest shipping channels on the east coast. What I failed to realize was the scope was set on an 8-mile range when it should have been at 1/2 miles. As I entered the mouth of the Delaware Bay/Atlantic Ocean my jet boat broke free of its straps and bounced on the bow like kids on a trampoline. It smashed its way through both salon windows and YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Searching for the best in boats, resorts and equipment? Platinum Television, a leader in educational programming produces several national television shows designed to be both informative and entertaining. Bringing the latest in watercraft, high-tech nautical innovations, electronics and even resort destinations to millions of viewers across North America, upcoming shows will feature these industry leaders - LIFTS DOCKS ACCESSORIES www.pierpleasure.com 800.658.7010 www.purefishing.com www.berkley-fishing.com www.lvgg.com 866.500.1816 For more infor mation about Platinum Television or any of their educational features please call 1.800.597.1186 or visit them online at www.platinumtelevision.com YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 71 TRAVEL LOG “My first leg I spent $20,000, lost one of my best friends, and almost died running in fog that was thicker than a bad batch of turkey gravy.” 72 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 I had to do the unthinkable. I climbed from the fly bridge to the bow and slid violently along with the jet boat as the boat pitched relentlessly. Twenty minutes after relashing the jet boat to the bow, I crawled back to the bridge knowing that one slip would mean instant death as hypothermia would have set in had I went overboard. Unfortunately, my hands were frozen as the bridge was neither heated nor waterproof. The plastic window bridge covers had ripped due to the winds and I had to remove the center cover so I could try and see through the fog. Now the radar starts blinking. But since the scope/range was improperly set, I was unaware that the tiny blip on the screen was not 8 miles away but 1/2 mile. As I gingerly peered through the fog, fortunately I noticed a strange shadow dead ahead. Slowing down I saw the outline of a huge towboat creeping slowly toward the west. I approached from the north at a perpendicular angle, and at about 60 yards out I looked behind the vessel and did not see the towline. Confident that she was running unfettered, I began to edge behind her stern. My spidey senses were tingling, so I decided to do a 360-degree turn just in case. Sixty seconds later a 300 foot barge laden with an entire junkyard blurred my entire view. Full stop! Full stop! I came within 50 yards of hitting the barge and almost cut between the two vessels. Had I done this my running gear would have ripped off and I would have sank in seconds and the following day would have reappeared...in the obituaries! Ironically, 15 minutes later the fog cleared and I passed the same inlet I had left three weeks earlier, far wiser and very humbled. It was at this point that I began to understand the challenges that the mariner faced throughout time. Two hundred years earlier, at the exact same spot as the towboat incident, the S.S. DeBreak had encountered foul weather and was swallowed whole by sea. The Debreak was an 18th century sailing vessel laden with gold and was returning to port when a violent storm took all souls. I had experienced the same life or death incident at nearly the same spot and survived. As I pulled into Ocean City, Maryland, at dusk I was still alone but no longer fearless, I kissed the dock and hugged my yacht. Some tests make you, others break you. Fortunately I was bowed but not broken. With renewed vigor I awoke the next day to sunshine and happiness. I had survived my first test and hoped the worst was behind me. One thing is a must when traveling the Intracoastal – transportation. Fortunately I brought along a sports bike, which provided me with the freedom to spread my wings. I spent the next three days recovering from my ordeal and repairing the damage done by the jet boat. Having spent summers nearby, I relished the chance to relive my old haunts in Ocean City. Most of the bars had long since closed but Skeeter on the bay was still open and was a lively and spirited club even for a 44year old like me. I departed Ocean City with a smile and headed back out to the Atlantic to run south to Norfolk. On the way I saw the conning towers that dotted the beach built during WWII to watch for the Nazi U-boats that were patrolling the Eastern Seaboard. In those days hundreds of thousands of tons of ships were being sunk every month right off our shores. My generation does not appreciate the sacrifice made by the “greatest generation.” I come from a proud military family. My father was an officer at the Naval Academy and a distinguished judge. My uncle was a Nazi camp POW survivor and escapee. Seeing these reminders, I paused to remember those valiant mariners and military men and women who protected our shores. Interestingly enough, the Atlantic has sandbars that appear 10–15 miles or more at sea. As I passed Chincoteague, Virginia, I saw the horses that Chincoteague is famous for. According to legend, a Spanish galleon laden with horses had grounded in the 1700s. The horses swam ashore to nearby Assateague where 300 years later the local firemen round up the horses every July 4th and have an auction to raise money for the locals. If you have never been, I highly recommend Pony Swim week in Chincoteague. As I pressed on, the sea rose to 4’ and my jet boat became loose once again. The fogs returned and I pushed on with the reassurance that I was not in a shipping channel. The depth finder started to beep and I found myself in 10 feet of water, 10 miles out to sea. It is quite unsettling to go through this so far out knowing if I grounded, it would have been very difficult to get help before dark. It’s always wise to leave at first light just in case you have problems. When you add darkness to problems at sea, you amplify the terror. So I slowed down and journeyed on mindful of the pea soup fog. I finally rounded the tip of Virginia and crossed the largest estuary in the world – the spectacular Chesapeake Bay. Famous for blue crabs, oysters, rockfish, and much more, the Chesapeake is home to generations of watermen. Just seeing the Chesapeake oyster boats brought me back to my boyhood in Annapolis as my folks provided me with the world’s best childhood! What I failed to realize before the voyage was the extent of reminiscing I would experience. The new memories that flooded my life were becoming equally as thrilling as my previous experiences. Many of us live our whole lives looking to the future for answers. I believe these answers can also be found by revisiting our past and learning from it. Take a dream trip, remember your youth, and appreciate your past. We don’t have a lot of time here together. Please stay tuned for more exciting adventures as I continue to head south on my voyage. YVC YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM “It’s yachting, not cruising” “Certainly you did not invent yachting BUT you sure have perfected it!” Ann Weisbecker, Maryland, USA “The dream you never want to wake up from.” David Simpson, UK When you charter a SEADREAM mega-yacht you will provide an exclusive experience for your guests in an atmosphere of luxury and casual perfection that is unmatched by any resort hotel or large cruise ship. SEADREAM is perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, small groups, or as a charter for meetings, incentive rewards, executive retreats or simply a celebration with family and friends. SEADREAM Charter Coordinators will work closely with you to ensure that your event is customized to meet your every desire. With only 55 ocean view staterooms and an award winning crew of 92, be prepared to be “Splendidly Spoiled”. In 2004 and 2005 Berlitz rated SEADREAM YACHT CLUB “Utterly Exclusive” above luxury. SEADREAM made the Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List, scoring a perfect 100 for Service and higher than any other passenger vessel for Cuisine. Travel+Leisure 2004 World’s Best Awards recognized SEADREAM I and II the highest of all vessels in Service, Cuisine and Value. 2003,‘04,’05 May – October: Visit the yachting ports of the Mediterranean, the enchanting Greek Islands, and the beautiful shorelines in the Adriatic and Black Sea. November – April: It’s SEADREAM’S Caribbean with the intimate yachting harbors and secluded bays of The Grenadines, Windward and Leeward Islands and the British Virgin Islands. For our most current pricing and itineraries please contact your travel professional, yacht broker or SEADREAM YACHT CLUB 800-707-4911 305-631-6100 www.SeaDreamCharter.com 2601 South Bayshore Drive, Penthouse1B, Coconut Grove, Florida 33133 FOOD & WINE The Fish That Laid the Golden Eggs Sturgeon: A gourmet’s best friend Few delicacies make as perfect a match for a vacation at sea as caviar. Long associated with elite connoisseurs, caviar has, in the words of James Beard, “been present at more important international affairs than have all the Russian dignitaries of history combined.” C WRITTEN BY SCOTT ROSE About the Writer Scott Rose writes on a variety of topics, from luxury items to art, music and literature and even classic antique auto repair. His food-related pieces have appeared in such prestigious organs as Bon Appetit. He has an unshakeable conviction that a New Year’s celebration without caviar would be like a yacht vacation without a boat. scottcaliente@earthlink.net 74 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 aviar is to a yacht vacation as a Lalique glass “Spirit of Ecstasy” hood emblem is to a black Rolls-Royce: you can proceed without it, but why on earth would you want to? Any number of littoral locales, from Beaulieu-surMer on the French Riviera to the White Sulfur Hot Springs on the Alaska coast, make a sublime backdrop for the sensual ritual of consuming caviar. Raising a silver-tip-handled, mother-of-pearl spoon, you inhale the bouquet of the caviar and, pleased to find it has just the very lightest suggestion of a sea perfume, you let the orbs glide onto your tongue. Inhaling but a whisper of air, you press the eggs against your hard palate, reveling in the subtle marine foretaste which is followed by a truffle-tinged nutty-fruitiness and finally a marked oceanic flavor overlain with hints of the edible gold leaf used in Indian cuisine. You savor the delights of the cumulative taste sensations lingeringly, as if they were a Caribbean sunset. We know that many different fishes provide roe which, when of high quality and used in a fine recipe, are worthy of our taste buds. Yet we also know that only three members of the sturgeon family produce what may legitimately be called caviar: sevruga, osetra and beluga. True, the cultivation of increasingly sophisticated aquaculture techniques in such places as California and the Aquitaine region of France have of late been producing sturgeon caviars which earn seals of approval from cognoscenti; nonetheless, for a variety of reasons, Iranian caviar from the Caspian Sea is currently superior to others. The word caviar evolved from the Persian “Khag-avar,” which means “the roe-generator.” In Medieval Russia, caviar was known as a peasant’s food, but by the time Shakespeare wrote the famous line from Hamlet which explains that a certain play was too refined to be enjoyed by the general public, “twas caviary to the general,” caviar had gained its association with connoisseurship and luxury. In 1971, when the Shah of Iran, Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, mounted a celebration of 2,500 years of the Persian Empire, an actual ton of caviar was provided, and of course eaten by the guests. When partaking of this delicacy, forgetting the painstaking efforts requisite to its production can be easy. All equipment to come in contact with the fish and the caviar is first sterilized. The sturgeon are caught in nets and transported live to the fishery where they must be washed several times and then anaesthetized in advance of having their egg sacs removed. Were a sturgeon to be killed first, she would release a bitter tasting chemical into her roe. Once the roe sacs have been removed, they are delicately lashed open with birch switches. The caviar master must evaluate the grade of the eggs in order to select the correct mesh screen over which to gently pass them with his hand. This step separates binding tissue from the eggs. Each harvest of sevruga, osetra and beluga that is, literally, worth its salt receives a grade of 1 or 2; criteria for the grading include the uniformity of the eggs as regards size, color, egg separation, fragrance, pellucidness and hardness of the shells. After the eggs have been separated into a tub, the absolutely correct, discreet amount of dry salt is added to them and oh so carefully but thoroughly mixed in; a lesser quantity of salt is desirable though it renders the product more perishable. The eggs are then placed on a fine mesh screen for drainage. Packaging the caviar in containers requires utmost fastidious delicacy; once the eggs have been carefully put inside, the lid must be manually pushed down so that the air inside is forced out as the container is sealed. Writing in her book Caviar, Susan Friedland said: “There are caviar lovers who swear they can tell the identity of the [caviar] master by rolling a bit of caviar around their tongue.” YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM No Limits Yachts in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, is experienced at flying Iranian caviar into its marinas for an initial provisioning. They have their own helicopter, small airplane and fast boat to replenish your caviar supply during a charter. Well connected in the Caribbean food world, they can also arrange for a guest chef from a leading restaurant to prepare a caviar-themed meal during your vacation. They even would be able to assemble a caviar picnic and then fly you and your company to an uninhabited island for the memorable adventure of consuming it. Tim Nelson of Seven Seas Yacht Charters in Nokonis, Florida, is a seasoned professional who not only can guide you to the ideal boat for your charter vacation but who also has a special familiarity with the crème-de-la-crème of sea-faring chefs; he can arrange for a world-class caviar expert to work magic in your galley. Andrew Buys of the Barrington-Hall Corporation, an international yacht charter company in Ft. Lauderdale, advises that should you wish to take a caviar cruise with caviar featured in at least one dish of each meal, your best bet would be to have a principal chef assisted by a caviar expert. For the ultimate elite caviar experience, you must try Almas caviar. Almas is the Russian word for diamonds; this white caviar with a heavenly flavor and a buttery texture is culled from Caspian Sea beluga sturgeon over 100 years old. Generally, the older the fish and the lighter the color of its roe, the more exquisite the caviar. Excellence combined with rarity has its price; Caviar House in London sells a kilo of Almas caviar in a 24-karat gold tin for £16,000, or about $25,000. For more modest tastings, a £800 tin is available. While purists will tell you that premium caviar should always be enjoyed by itself, it would seem a tragedy to forgo such pleasures as sliced lobster tail and caviar on croutons, sea bass with a caviar sauce, or scallops in a cream sauce prepared with both sevruga and beluga caviars. Like wine, caviar has a rich and inexhaustible culture; it is an interest to be cultivated over a lifetime. Beyond the actual caviar are all the fine points of caviar accouterments: the présentoirs, the golden serving shovels, and the mother-of-pearl serving plates. Ideally, one should be able to, if not identify the caviar master from one taste of his product, then at least to recognize the difference between sevruga, osetra and beluga when blindfolded. At present, 50% of premium caviars are sold to airlines to be served to their first-class passengers. I hope this article serves as a stimulus for increasing the quantity of premium caviar consumed aboard yachts. YVC THIS INDEX IS PROVIDED AS AN ADDITIONAL SERVICE TO OUR READERS. THE PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME ANY LIABILITY FOR ERRORS AND OMMISSIONS. Author Forrest Webb gave his 1975 nautical mystery novel the alluring title of Caviar Cruise. Who among us would not like to simultaneously indulge our passions for yachting and caviar? Russia’s Orthodox Cruise Company offers a caviar cruise starting at Rostov-on-Don, progressing to Volgograd and thence down the Volga to the Caspian Sea. Meals always feature at least one dish incorporating Russian caviar; menus intriguingly include items such as sturgeon soup and recipes using milt, the sperm of the male sturgeon, traditional in Russian cuisine and quite popular in France where it is known as laitance. The surest bet for being able to receive premium Iranian caviar during a yacht vacation is to take your vacation in the Mediterranean; the relative proximity of the area to the Caspian as well as the Europeans’ savoir-faire in obtaining it are most propitious. With that said, premium caviar can be flown to any marina in the world, though one does have to be cognizant of the necessary advance planning. The high end of the caviar trade is very strictly regulated in order to protect the sturgeon as a species. Much documentation is required by law when Iranian sevruga, osetra and beluga are sent from one country to another. ADVERTISER INDEX ADVERTISER URL CONTACT Alaska-Charter-Yachts www.alaska-charter-yachts.com info@alaska-charter-yachts.com PAGE 61 Alpha Yachting www.alphayachting.com info@alphayachting.com 954-234-2203 61 Angela Connery Yacht Charters www.acyachtcharters.com 877-741-4448 67 Bartram & Brakenhoff www.bartbrak.com Pila@Bartbrak.com 401-862-1977 31 Beka Cornish www.beka-cornish.com info@beka-cornish.com 27 Ben’s Yacht Services www.westcoastjeeps.com saltibusb@slucia.com 758-459-5457/7160 69 65 Blue Water Yacht Charters www.bluewateryachtcharters.com 800-732-7245 Camper & Nicholsons www.cnconnect.com 954-524-4250 15 Charter Brokers of Alaska LLC www.charterbrokersofalaska.com 888-530-2628 67 100 Delta AirElite www.airelite.com 877-323-5387 Dream Sailing www.dreamsailing.co.uk info@dreamsailing.co.uk 33 6 64 03 7020 Executive Jet Management www.executivejetmanagement.com 800-797-6306 7 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show www.showmanagement.com 800-940-7642 89 39 Gevril www.gevril.com 845-425-9882 99 Golden Yachts www.goldenyachts.gr contact@goldenyachts.gr (30) 210 967 3203/4 2-3 Irma Fishing & Trading www.irmafishing.com irmafishing@hotmail.com 632-288-3401 69 Jet Aviation www.jetaviation.com/privilegedtrave 1-888-430-JETS 85 Luxurious Lifestyles at Sea www.llatsea.com info@llatsea.com 866-577-7701 59 Marcrista Luxury Charters www.marcrista.com.au (61) 418 339753 67 800-922-4833 61 MLW www.N801DM.com Ocean Charters www.oceancharters.com 83 Ocean Cruise www.ocyachts.com charter@ocyachts.com 954-524-9366 51 Ocean Yachts www.ocean-yachts.com info@ocean-yachts.com 30 210 9855518 69 55 Paradise Yacht Charters www.paradiseyachtcharters.com chartermail@bellsouth.net 954-462-0091 Peter Insull www.insull.com fiona@insull.com (33) 493342242 13 Platinum Television www.platinumtelevision.com 800-597-1186 71 SeaDream Yacht Club www.seadreamcharter.com 800-707-4911 73 South Seas International www.southseas.it ddt@southseas.it 39 081 245 24 02 65 41 Stabbert Maritime www.stabbertmaritime.com lindsays@stabbertmaritime.com 206-547-6161Ext.116 The Sacks Group www.sacksyachts.com info@sacksyachts.com 954-764-7742 Trimarine Boat www.bvisailing.com 800-648-3393 5 65 Valef Yachting www.valefyachts.com info@valefyachts.com 215-641-1624 21 Yacht Charter Group www.yachtchartergroup.com 877-752-5001 47 Yacht Vacation & Charters Magazine www.yachtchartersmagazine.com 888-303-5282 79 YachtFest www.yachtfest.com 858-836-0133 81 Yachting Greece Ltd. www.yachtingreece.gr info@yacthingreece.gr 30 210 3233057 Yachting Partners International www.ypi.co.uk ypi@ypi.co.uk 800-626-0019 35 YCO www.ycoyacht.com charter@ycoyacht.com (377) 93 50 12 12 43 YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS 76-77 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 75 Luxury Yacht Charters in Greece and East Mediterranean Sea ������� COPYRIGHT© YACHTING GREECE LTD. Be our guests! ������� Yachting Greece Ltd. 12 Lekka Street, Athens 10562 Greece Tel (+30) 210 3233057 Fax (+30) 210 3257553 24 Hour Phone (+30) 697 692 6649 info@yachtingreece.gr www.yachtingreece.gr JET LIFESTYLE SECTION PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL When You’re Ready to Fly Privately It’s time for Jet Aviation’s Privileged Travel Program Wr i t t e n b y D e n i s e To r r e 78 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������� ����������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������� ����������������������� ������������������ ����������������������������������� �������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������� �������������� ��������� ���������� ��������������������� �������� ���� ���� ���������� ������������������ ����������������������������� ����������� �������������� ����� ����� ����������������� ����������������� ������������������������� ��������������������������������� ���������������������������� ������������������������������������ ����������� ������������������������ ��������������������������� ����������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ����������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS 2005 79 JET LIFESTYLE SECTION PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL I n a time well before many of today’s air charter and fractional companies came to be, there was Jet Aviation. Since 1967, Jet Aviation has enjoyed as fine a reputation as there is in the crowded field of private air travel. Are You Ready for Privileged Travel? Now, if you’re reading this, most likely you’re a sophisticated traveler, successful business person, or entrepreneur who likes the idea of taking control – of your time, your money, and your lifestyle. Safety, security, and privacy are important to you when you fly. So are saving time, scheduling freedom, and control – over everything from whom you fly with, to when and where you fly to. If this description fits you, read on to learn more about the Privileged Travel jet card program from Jet Aviation. Jet Aviation launched its jet card program in late 2004 among a field of many competitors. In May, the company decided it was time to invite some travel journalists on a Privileged Travel flight to demonstrate what sets their program apart. The idea was to fly to a particular destination for a luncheon, and The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV, was selected. The objective was to showcase Privileged Travel, and how flying as a Privileged Travel cardholder changes the way one flies forever. The event even had a name, “Privileged Traveler for a Day.” We spoke with Robert Seidel, senior vice president and general manager of Jet Aviation Charter and the Privileged Travel Program, about the day’s events. Here’s how it went. Flying to Lunch “Our guests were transported to Teterboro Airport in New Jersey by private luxury auto. From curbside, it was just a few yards’ walk to our Challenger 604 aircraft. “After the required identification checks, we all boarded, the plane began to taxi, and we were airborne in a matter of minutes. Private jet aircraft fly well above commercial air traffic and adverse weather conditions, and you would be surprised at how much of a difference this makes in travel time and comfort,” said Seidel. Already, a very great difference from commercial travel was noted 80 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 by all. But there was more to come. When the cabin service began, guests were served a perfectly chilled flute of Veuve Clicquot and bit delicately into similarly chilled shrimp and other hors d’oeuvre. They then spent the little over an hour flight learning about Privileged Travel, and the ins and outs of private aviation in general. The Privileged Travel Card comes in 10, 25, 50, and 100-hour denominations, and three categories: Classic, Elegance, and AvantGarde, Seidel said. You can truly create your own jet card – just select the number of hours you want to fly and match it up with the type of aircraft you want to fly in. Prices range from $45,000 for a light jet 10-hour Classic Card, to $1,292,000 for a large cabin 100-hour Avant-Garde Card. All cards include gourmet catering, concierge assistance, and a dedicated customer service representative to book your trip and fulfill all your service requests. According to Seidel, when the company first conceived the idea, “Our first goal was to come up with a product that not only met demand, but offered a flexible, affordable solution for clients who may not be familiar with traditional air charter.” “A second goal,” Seidel said, “was to introduce unique components to our program that would ultimately set us far apart from competitors. That was the 10-hour card. The Privileged Travel 10-hour introductory card allows new entrants to private aviation to experience our charter services without a major financial commitment. They can upgrade at any time and we’ll roll their unused hours into the new card of their choice.” “Touching down at Lewisburg Airport, literally within seconds we were deplaned and picked up by our hosts at The Greenbrier resort,” Seidel said. “In little over an hour we had left the city behind and were now safely tucked away in the Allegheny Mountains where a mild, misty day was in progress. But that did little to dampen our spirits.” Land Closer to Your Destination “What our guests soon realized is that, when you fly privately, thousands of airports are available for you to fly into, not just the few hundred available to commercial travelers. Often, that brings you much closer to your destination than was ever possible flying commercially,” Seidel notes. And the short ride to the resort illustrated that fact. The little luncheon group dined in Sam Snead’s Restaurant, perched over a vista that surveyed The Greenbrier’s three golf courses, “Our first goal was to come up with a product that not only met demand, but offered a flexible, affordable solution for clients who may not be familiar with traditional air charter.” YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 81 JET LIFESTYLE SECTION PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL looking even greener against the day’s gray skies. If your knowledge of golf is limited only to the Woods, Singhs, and Mickelsons of today, then you may not remember when Slammin’ Sam was king of the links for almost four decades from the late 1930s to the 1960s. These courses and this restaurant are a pantheon to the man who was The Greenbrier’s pro golfer for his entire career. Patrons at this restaurant can view the collection of golf balls from Snead’s 35 holes in one, among many, many other items of golfing memorabilia on display in this museum-like setting. How to Tell a Good Charter Service Provider Of the many questions asked over lunch, one that stood out was, “How do you know a good charter service provider from one that may not be up to par?” The difficult answer is, unfortunately with a free marketplace, there are literally thousands of people portraying themselves as charter service providers in the industry today. One way to differentiate one from another is their willingness to show you their facilities and talk about their rigorous safety standards. They will 82 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 be proud to discuss their recurrent training for pilots and their stringent maintenance procedures. They’ll have a round-the-clock operation seven days a week, and be ready to take your call when you want to travel, or even just change your itinerary. Believe it or not, not every charter service provider offers these most basic of aviation necessities. Another way is to look at their resources. Does the company have a “bricks and mortar” facility, or are they just a Web page on the Internet? These days it can be difficult to distinguish a bona fide aviation company from one that has only an Internet presence. Now more than ever, it’s buyer beware. “Privileged Travel clients should know that from Denver, to Düsseldorf, to Dubai – Jet Aviation has facilities all over the globe in North and South America, Europe, the Middle and Far East,” Seidel said, “In fact, we operate over 60 aviation service facilities worldwide. We’re never far from where you need – or want – to fly.” On the way back to Teterboro, things went just as smoothly – and quickly. We were dropped off at the airport by The Greenbrier, immediately boarded the plane, and were aloft in seconds. The guests qui- etly savored the day’s sojourn as the dessert cheeses and fresh fruit made the rounds in the cabin, along with some fabulously fragrant German Rieslings. Endless Possibilities Imagine the possibilities. We could have flown anywhere, to storied St. Andrews for a round of golf or to St. Tropez for a swim. You could take clients to lunch, or the family on vacation. A group of friends could purchase a 10-hour card and jet away to the golf courses of their dreams. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of Privileged Travel. But on this particular day it was White Sulphur Springs, in all its pastoral loveliness. We had gone to West Virginia for lunch, and were back in New Jersey the same afternoon. “We knew we had made some new converts,” said Seidel. So next time you are suddenly seized by the need for what is possible, remember the Privileged Travel card and the day you read about it. Your choices and possibilities will suddenly multiply the day you decide to become a cardholder. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM JET LIFESTYLE SECTION PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL The Essential Addition to a Yachter’s Agenda The best choice when flying to your vessel Wr i t t e n b y B o n n y P h i l l i p s a n d A l e x a n d r a S p e n c e r M ore and more yachtsmen choose to arrive at their docks via the most reliable and personalized transportation possible – private jet travel. 84 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Commercial airlines are fast becoming a non-option, due to the outrageous lines, stifling inconveniences, and the lack of courtesies and respect that all travelers deserve. The numerous, customized programs and selection of destinations that private jet travel offers couldn’t be more flexible or dynamic. Private jet companies such as Worldwide Jet have taken the industry by storm, and the success has been overwhelming. Worldwide Jet in particular has revolutionized travel with a unique one-way priced, non-stop service called the Transcon Platinum service. This service operates in all directions between Florida, California, and the New York regions. Whereas most jet charter providers charge round-trip prices even when only a one-way trip is desired, Worldwide Jet offers their Transcon Platinum Service as a bold and extremely successful new approach to booking charter, with the emphasis on the needs and best interests of the client. When this feature is paired with the company’s standard global operation and exceptional onehour dispatch, Worldwide Jet easily leaves the competition in their contrails. More and more affluent and discerning travelers are making the switch, and ruing not having done so sooner. “Private jet travel allows me to choose just about any destination, which aircraft I want to take me there, and what kind of wool blankets I want on the flight – they’ve got every possible luxury open to me. Pinch me, I’m dreaming. Travel isn’t supposed to be this easy or luxurious!” Comments like these from actual customers are causing others to take notice that private jet charter has been one of the best options in the travel industry for decades. Private jet travel is clearly a luxurious, safe, and dependable choice for those who demand the utmost in service and safety when traveling by air. Though your yacht may be your most trusted vessel in the water, allow a company like Worldwide Jet to provide you with a private jet of the same caliber. To book a flight with Worldwide Jet: (760) 327-2780 or (877) 281-2400 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM The Ultimate Jet Travel Card Client Benefits: • Available in 10, 25 or 100-hour cards • No capital risk - no hidden fees • Occupied hours only - no empty-leg charges • Wide variety of aircraft to choose from • Up to 40% round-trip bonus feature • Unsurpassed safety record For more information and a complete travel card program overview, contact one of our Privileged TRAVEL™ representatives today! 1 888 430 JETS Jet Aviation’s aircraft charters to, from and within the United States are operated by New World Jet Corporation, an air carrier licensed by the FAA and registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. JET LIFESTYLE SECTION PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL The Jet Charter Experience It’s only a phone call away Wr i t t e n b y P e t e r L a n d e s m a n C onsider today’s traveling environment – arriving at the airport 2–21/2 hours before your flight after parking your car in a remote lot. You’re spending unproductive time waiting to go through multiple security procedures. Then, consider the time you spend waiting for your flight to take off. You’ll probably be sharing that flight with at least 150 strangers. When you arrive at your destination, an endless walk awaits through expansive concourses. Then you spend more unproductive time attending to your baggage and ground transportation. And your experience is the same whether you’re paying the premium prices for firstclass travel or a bargain fare. And it doesn’t look to get any better in the future. Airline traffic is expected to double by the year 2015 and few additional runways are planned. Fewer new major airports are proposed beyond the 450 or so that currently serve the nation. The picture gets bleaker when you consider that 70% of all airline traffic funnels through only about 30 hubs. Now consider a similar trip on a jet charter. You begin your trip by arriving at your departure point about 15 minutes before your flight departs. And don’t worry about adjusting your personal travel schedule to an airline’s. You travel on your terms, whenever it is most convenient for you. In many cases, you either park your car or are dropped off within feet, not miles of your jet. Going through security is no longer a hassle, because you and the rest of your traveling party have already been pre-screened. Want something special to eat and drink while you are flying? Want to decorate your aircraft with your favorite flowers? Not a problem, it’s all arranged for you before your flight. If this is a business trip, you will engage in confidential discussions without the worry of other passengers that might be listening in. You’ll be able to spend your travel time preparing for that critical meeting or making last minute changes to that important pre- 86 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 sentation. You’ll arrive at your destination, refreshed and prepared. Your ground transportation will be within a few feet of your jet to meet you and you won’t need to search for your luggage on a carousel. What’s even better, you’ll choose from up to 5,500 airports serving private jets instead of being limited to the 450 or so congested airports currently serving commercial airlines. In many cases, private jets will fly you to and from airports that are much closer and more convenient for you. Want to take advantage of all that chartering a jet offers? Chartering private jets has never been simpler. Worldwide, there are more than 2,400 charter operators with more than 13,000 jet-powered private aircraft. But, according to Al Pod, CEO of Cincinnati-based Executive Jet Management (EJM), a NetJets Company, not all charter is equal. “Choosing a quality charter company requires careful research,” says Pod. Only the leading jet charter companies, like EJM, have the largest fleets, featuring the newer and most modern jets and the extensive infrastructure and systems to support their operation. That means more choices available for you plus the assurance of an experienced crew on safe, secure, and superbly maintained aircraft. Pod also points out that flight operations at Executive Jet Management are more secure than an airline’s. “No one steps aboard one of our airplanes whom we don’t already know or who hasn’t had a background check,” says Pod. Flight manifests are carefully verified against IDs prior to any departure. All the security screening takes place well before your flight, so you get to avoid the long lines and the hassles. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision when choosing an air charter service: • Don’t ask for a specific type of aircraft: Often, someone looking into charter will request a specific type of aircraft because he or she has some previous experience with it. However, it might not be the most comfortable, efficient, or cost-effec- • • • • tive aircraft for the trip. Instead, describe your travel needs. Ask the operator to recommend the best aircraft type for a particular trip. Determine where the operator’s fleet is located: If the location of the aircraft is not in line with your specific trip requirements, you may end up paying a premium for the trip. This is due to “ferry time” charges. Executive Jet Management operates one of the nation’s largest charter fleets. With 80 private jets based at more than 60 locations throughout the U.S., the possibility that ferry time charges will be applied is minimized. Determine the size and depth of the operator’s fleet: Many operators with limited fleets will try to convince you to use a specific aircraft because it’s the only aircraft the operator has available, not because it comes closest to meeting your needs. Executive Jet Management operates a fleet of private jets with cabin sizes that can comfortably seat as few as five passengers all the way up to large cabin aircraft that can handle up to 18 passengers. Determine whether your operator is brokering your trip to another operator: If so, does the third party offer the highest standards in safety, pilot training, maintenance and service for the aircraft they charter? Executive Jet Management, which maintains one of the very highest standards in the aviation industry, is one of the very select few U.S. aircraft charter, management, shuttle, and maintenance companies to become ISO 9001:2000 certified. In addition EJM has been awarded the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Diamond Award for aircraft maintenance training excellence for 11 straight years. As with most things, you get what you pay for: Check out the operator not only by comparison pricing but also by checking references. You can also inquire at the local FAA office regarding the operator’s charter certification and safety history. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM PRIVATE JET CHARTERS & TRAVEL • Compare quotes intelligently: Is it a hard quote or a “soft” estimate? What services are included with the charter? What will appear as an additional cost on the invoice (landing fees, catering, wait/ ground time)? • Be certain the operator has true 24-hour service: If you need to change your itinerary or cancel your trip, you should be able to reach a knowledgeable representative of the operator 24/7. In the same vein, it’s important to supply the charter operator with a reliable way to contact you should they need to update you on operational or weather changes during non-business hours. • An operator should be more that willing to show you around the facilities: This will allow you to become familiar with the different aircraft available for charter, and help establish a comfort level with the company’s operation. • Establish a relationship with one charter operator you know you can trust: Typically, by concentrating all your business with one operator you can obtain volume discounts. It can also lead to a much more efficient use of your time and more consistent, topquality service. Chartering private jets isn’t just for the business traveler. More and more people are taking advantage of all that chartering a private jet has to offer for their personal and vacation travel, too. Taking your families and friends with you on a chartered private jet is the perfect way to get started on that special vacation. You get to travel on your terms and on your schedule, with convenience and in comfort, and with ultra-personalized service. Imagine how much more time you will be able to spend enjoying yourself and the company of your guests that would otherwise have been wasted on traffic, long lines, and congested airports. You’ll arrive rested and relaxed, and ready to enjoy whatever your vacation has in store for you. Those who have experienced the pleasures of flying on private jets will tell you that you will never want to travel on commercial carriers again. Get started on creating your private jet travel experience – it’s only a phone call or click away. About the Writer Peter Landesman, a market manager for Executive Jet Management, is a marketing industry veteran with over 20 years in retail market research, product line management, and direct marketing. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Cessna Citation Excel Raytheon Hawker 800XP Raytheon Hawker 1000 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 87 YV&C SPONSORED EVENT Newport, Rhode Island 2005 International Yacht Charter Meeting Newport Yacht Charter Show Photo Album T he 23rd Annual Newport Spring Charter Yacht Show took place at the Newport Shipyard in Newport, Rhode Island. This year, more than 30 charter yachts and more than 100 charter brokers, press, and industry professionals participated at this annual event. Newport Charter Yacht Seminar presented speakers such as Brian Piers of Homeland Security and Customs, Robert Peck of MARSH Insurance, Rupert Conner of Luxury Yacht Group, and Kurt Bosshardt on Contract topics. Tom B. Rowe, managing director and Patty Martin, charter fleet manager of NYM Worldwide greeted the crew, captains and attending delegates of this year’s event. Churchill Yachts, Cox Marine, Fraser Yachts, International Yacht Collection, Koch Newton & Partners, Luxury Yacht Group, Merle Wood & Associates, Newport Yacht Management, Nicholson Yacht Charters, The Sacks Group, and independent charter yachts participated with their Summer 205 New England fleets. YachtChartersMagazine.TV covered the entire event with exclusive interviews and reports from the docks. Karin Garrett of Blue Water Yacht Charters, Inc., Michael Hutton of Charter Index, Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Jim Hanchrow (R) of YV&C greets Robo of S/Y Endeavor - a past winner of The America’s Cup. Robyn Forma of YV&C with the Captain of M/Y On Seafari, a participant in the Yacht Hop as well as in the Concourse de Chef at the NYM Spring Charter Show. The chef on board S/Y Trinity XIV, a participant in the Concourse de Chef, smiles as the judges sample her creations The chef’s Concourse de Chef entry on board S/Y Trinity XIV looked divine. S/Y Trinity XIV at the Newport Spring Charter Show in Newport, RI. Jim Hanchrow, Robyn Forma, Carmen Gonzalez and Fuat Kircaali of International Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine. The Concourse de Chef judges sit down at their first meal of the contest, on board S/Y Trinity XIV, to sample and critique the chef’s preparations. The skies, for the most part, were typical of New England during the NYM Spring Charter show this year. Some of the yachts in the NYM show as seen from the deck of S/Y Trinity XIV, also a particpant in the show. As you can see from the lovely ladies here, professionals from many industries related to chartering were in attendance at this year’s NYM event. Jennifer Saia of The Sacks Group greets us as we arrive for the Yacht Hop on board M/Y On Seafari. Arriving at the Yacht Hop during the NYM Spring Charter Show. Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine was once again a sponsor of the NYM Spring Charter Show in Newport. The judges in the Concourse de Chef are greeted by the Captain on board S/Y Trinity XIV. The judges in the Concourse de Chef take notes as they sample the fare on board M/Y Independence 2, also a participant in the Yacht Hop where the food was marvelous as well as the entertainment! The culinary theme on board M/Y Independence 2 was Tuscan as you can see from the presentation at the entry to the main salon. An invitation to enjoy “An Italian Summer Aboard the Independence 2,” Under the Tuscan Sun was displayed as wel Rupert Connor of Luxury Yacht Group makes a presentaion on compliance issues to the attendees of the FYBA seminar during the NYM Spring Charter Show. A memer of the US Department of Homeland Security addresses the audienece at the FYBA seminar during the NYM Spring Charter Show. The Captain and First Mate aboard Massimo, from across the dock at the NYM Spring Charter Show. 88 (L to R) Patty Martin, Charter Fleet Manager, and Tom Rowe, Managing Director, of Newport Yacht Management (NYM) , the organizers of the NYM Spring Charter Show, with Jim Hanchrow, Robyn Forma, Carmen Gonzalez and Fuat Kircaali of YV&C. VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Cathy Amann, Director, Emerging Segments, with American Express speaks to the attendees of the Florida Yacht Brokers Association (FYBA) Seminar during the NYM Spring Charter Show. See You Next Year! YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM 46th Annual October 27 - 31 2004 Photo by Forest Johnson/Show Management Sponsored by: One World...One Boat Show * THE WORLD’S PREMIER SUPERYACHT and FISHING BOAT VENUE * Over 1,700 boats to shop - with more than 1,100 in water * Most complete selection of Yacht Builders, Designers, Decorators, and Manufacturers in The World * Air-Conditioned Exhibition tents full of Engines, Electronics, Accessories, Clothing, Art and Equipment * Broward County Convention Center features: 3 Air-Conditioned floors full of fishing boats, supplies, electronics services and more! Dates & Times Thursday, October 27th “Prime Time Preview” Friday, October 28th Saturday, October 29th Sunday, October 30th Monday, October 31st Owned & Sponsored by: Six Locations 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 10am - 6pm Sponsored by: * * * * Bahia Mar Yachting Center The Greater Broward County/ Fort Lauderdale Convention Center Hall of Fame Marina * Las Olas Municipal Marina Hyatt Pier 66 Marina * Marriott Portside Marina For Travel & Hotel Accommodations: (866) 877-3083 identitytravel.com City of Fort Lauderdale www.showmanagement.com - Toll Free (800) 940-7642 or (954) 764-7642 YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 89 YV&C SPONSORED EVENT 2005 Genoa International Robyn Forma, Advertising Director of YV&C, David Legrand, Charter Marketing Manager of Fraser Yachts Worldwide, Captain Battaglia of M/Y Lady Lola, and Carmen Gonzalez, Senior VP of Sales & Marketing of YV&C. Kyri Kyriacou, Director, Anna- Maria Hernandez, Director, and Andreas Liveras, Chairman, of Liveras Yachts and P/V Annaliesse. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. David Legrand (l) of Fraser Yachts Worldwide with an aquaintance (we presume!). Grisha Davida of the SuperYacht Conference and YV&C with Jay Rainey of The Antigua Charter Yacht Meeting (Dec 7-12, 2005) Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. Carmen Gonzalez (left) and Robyn Forma (right) of YV&C with the Captain of M/Y Titan. Watch Robyn’s interview with the Captain on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. A beautiful view of Genoa on the deck of S/S Delphine, a luxuriously restored 1920’s steam yacht. See the feature on S/S Delphine in this issu of Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine. Robyn Forma of YV&C , Ineke Bruynooghe, who oversaw and spearheaded the entire restoration of the S/S Delphine, and Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C. Take a video tour of the S/S Delphine at YachtChartersMagazine.TV Robyn Forma of YV&C, Valeska, Georgette Adamou and Kass Johnson-Halliday of the St. Maarten Charter Yacht Exhibition (December 5-8, 2005) and Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma of YV&C with Begum Dogulu (center) of Begum Yachting. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma with the familiar Carabinieri from last year’s IYCM photo album. Robyn Forma of YV&C, George Pappas of Big Blue Yachting and Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C. Watch George’s interview from the IYCM on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. Ann Poux of the IYCM and Mike White of the Mediterranean Yacht Broker’s Association and CavendishWhite with Grisha Davida of YV&C. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Captain Achim Fischer of M/Y Rebellious and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Watch the interview on YachtchartersMagazine.TV Colin Squire of YachtFile with Grisha Davida of Yacht Vacations & Charters Magazine. Grisha Davida of SuperYacht Conference, Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Captain Rags Welton of Ocean Cruise and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Corinne Desmougins of Fraser Yachts Worldwide with Robyn Forma of YV&C outside the YV&C exhibit area. Grisha Davida of YV&C with the Luise Associates of Naples, Italy. An attentive member of the IYCM staff. Grisha Davida of YV&C, Patrick McHugh of Orca Sailing and Robyn Forma of of YV&C. Watch the interview on YachtchartersMagazine.TV Two lovely members of the IYCM staff. The Hon. Alex F. Downie of the Isle of Man Department of Trade and Industry, YV&C’s neighbor at the IYCM exhibits. Watch the Isle of Man interview on YachtChartersMagazine. TV Susan Wallace Whiteman (r) of Ocean Charters and a fellow agent. Grisha Davida, Poran Bal, Robyn Forma and Carmen Gonzalez aboard M/Y Seven Sins. A new launch just out of the shipyard and at the IYCM. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma of YV&C with the Captain and crew of Suhela Sultan. The chef’s masterful preparations onboard Suhela Sultan. More of the chef’s creations on Suhela Sultan. It looked delicious but we didn’t touch. Some of the yachts on display at the IYCM 2005. Smooth Operator and Rebellious grace the harbor in Genoa. Robyn Forma of Yacht Vacations & Charters with a crew member from S/Y Fair Lady and fan of YV&C. Another well attended show. Robyn Forma and Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C with Martin Bott (center) of Yachting Partners International. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma sit with Captain Aaron of M/Y Four Wishes. Aaron was a little camera shy for a YachtChartersMagazine.TV interview. We’ll get you next time, Captain! 90 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Grisha Davida (second from left) sits with Valeska (l) , Georgie (second from r) and Kass (r) from the SCYE organizing committee. YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Yacht Charter Meeting Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Martin Bott, Marketing Manager (second from left), Alex Braden, Managing Director (second from right) of Yachting Partners International (YPI) and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Chris Webley of Charter Index, Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma of YV&C, and Tim Nelson of Seven Seas Yacht Charters. Watch Carmen’s interview with Tim on YachtChartersMagazine.TV Two crew members from an attending yacht at IYCM. Robyn Forma of YV&C with our friend from the IYCM bar. Marina Genova Aeroporto founders. Watch the YachtChartersMagazine.TV Chris Webley and Michael Hutton of Charter Index with Kim Vickery (c) of International Yacht Collection. A crew member from an attending yacht a the IYCM. Attending yachts at the IYCM. Andrew Hanna of Ocean Partners International enjoying the show and a nice cigar. Francesca Carbone of IYCM with an IYCM staff member and exhibitors. Kassed Harb, Managing Director of Bluebonnet Maritime and Tourism enjoying a cold drink at the Pesto Bros Revelers at the Pesto Bros booth festivites. Enjoying the hospitality at the Pesto Bros booth during IYCM 2005. Emmanuel Baeten of Ocean Partners International and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Sona and AJ from B&Y Charters. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV p/v Annaliesse Cruise Director Nikos Tourtoglougolu, Peter Fiorini Lowell of S & D Yachts Limited Malta, and the Captain of p/v Annaliesse. Maurizio Bucci, Deputy Mayor of Economy and Tourism of the Municipality of Trieste. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV Monica Fonseca and Sandra Quiroz of Sea Independence. Two fellow IYCM 2005 exhibitors from Malta. George Pappas, Managing Director of Big Blue Yachting and Tim Clark, Senior Broker at of Ocean Cruise. Grisha Davida of YV&C with Captain Brian Chick of M/Y Mosaique. Grisha Davida of YV&C, Steve Elario, Director and Kim Vickery, Charter Divison, of International Yacht Collection and Fuat Kircaali, Publisher and Managing Director of YV&C. Oscar Faragher and Alison Craddock of Quantum Leap Design Group enjoying the show. Robyn Forma of YV&C with Anna Ramfou of Melitas Marine. Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Mike White of CavendishWhite and Robyn Forma enjoying the IYCM recption. Fellow partygoers at the IYCM reception. A lovely Ann at the IYCM reception. Georgie and Valeska from St Maarten Charter Yacht Exhibition enjoying the IYCM reception Mike White of the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association and the IYCM Organizing Committee addressing the crowd at the reception. Attending Yachts at the IYCM 2005. Carmen Gonzalez nd Robyn Forma of YV&C with Peter Insull of Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma at a makeshift lemonade stand at one of the attending yachts. Grisha Davida of YV&C with Tork Buckley of The Yacht Report. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Captain Mario Zanasi of S/Y Christianne B and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 91 YV&C SPONSORED EVENT Fellow exhibitors at the IYCM 2005. Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Nick Jeffery of Nick Jeffery Yacht Publicity and Robyn Forma of YV&C, Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. Robyn Forma of YV&C,, Georgette Bouradjdi and Fiona Maureso of Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing and Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, on board S/S Delphine. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV. Kiki Hagmann and Christoph Hagmann off Navigators at the YV&C expo tent. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma of YV&C with Aqua Marine Services. Fuat Kircaali of YV&C with Joanna and Monica from Yachting Pages Marine Directory Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, Jennifer Saia of The Sacks Group and Robyn Forma of YV&C . Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C, LeAnn Morris Pike, Charter Agent at The Sacks Group and Robyn Forma of YV&C. Watch the interview on YachtChartersMagazine.TV Andy and Jay from The Antigua CharterYacht Meeting. Diane Fraser of Fraser Yachts Worldwide and a fellow broker from Fraser. Some of thecrew members from M/Y Titan. Some of the crew members on board p/v Annaliesse. Robyn Forma of YV&C with Lisa Cavicchioli, Charter Marketing Agent for Fraser Yachts Worldwide. Anna Tabone, Marina Manager of the Grand Harbor Marina in Malta, Kyri Kyriacou, Director of Liveras Yachts and Robyn Forma, Advertising Director of YV&C at the wonderful party on board p/v Annaliesse. George Pappas of Big Blue Yachting (l) on board for the Annaliesse party. Mr. Andreas Liveras greets guests on board p/v Annaliesse. Mr. Liveras boogies down with a party-goer on board the Annaliesse. David Legrand of Fraser Yachts Worldwide and Kelley Smitten from Elite Yacht Charters. Robyn Forma of YV&C with host Mr. Liveras on board Annaliesse. Partygoers on board Annaliesse. As you can tell, the food was plentiful and spectacular on board Annaliesse. Sorry gentlemen! Hon. Alex F. Downie from The Isle of Man Dept of Trade and Industry on board Annaliesse for the party. Carmen Gonzalez and Robyn Forma from YV&C with the Chef and Captain of p/v Annaliesse. Carmen Gonzalez of YV&C with Captain, Chef and fellow party-goer on board Annaliesse. Begum Yachting enjoying the Annaliesse party. Captain Morten of S/S Delphine with Robyn Forma of YV&C. Michael Hutton and Chris Webley of Charter Index with an Annaliesse crew member. Boogying down on board Annaliesse. Anna-Maria makes certain everything is going smoothly on board p/v Annaliesse. Ann Landry (r) of Koch, Newton & Partners and another partygoer on board Annaliesse. Ineke Bruynooghe (r) of S/S Delphine and fellow party-goer on board Annaliesse. Ann Landry of Koch, Newton & Partners gets down on board at the Annaliesse party. The food was aplenty for the party-goers on board p/v Annaliesse (including Jennifer Saia of The Sacks Group in the background). Carmen Gonzalez (l) of Yacht Vacations & Charters with Jennifer Saia (r) of The Sacks Group. Party-goers, including Alex Braden (second from r) of Yachting Partners International, get down on board Annaliesse. Fiona Maureso of Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing having a blast on board for the Annaliesse party. Georgette Bouradjdi (r) of Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing and friend on board Annaliesse. 92 Georgette Bouradjdi (l) of Peter Insull’s Yacht Marketing and friends. VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 The YV&C team with the Charter Index team enjoying an authentic Genovese meal. See you Next Year! At the 2006 Genoa International Yacht Charter Meeting YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM ���������������������������� ����������������������������� ����������������������������� ������������������������������������������ �������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ������������������������� � ����������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������� �� ���������� � �������� � � ����������������������������������������� � ��������������� YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS ����������������������������� 93 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 attending yachts Newport Yacht Management Charter Show Recap Ace Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Ace Johnstone Chris Dowling 48’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Aurora Belliure Chris Renner 67’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Bandera Hinckley Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain ChurchillYachts BlackTie LH 54 Christophe Ribault 54’ Sail Aurora Sail Bandera 57’ Sail Black Tie LOA Sail/Power Sail Blue Moon Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power TBD Blue Moon CT Jonathon Davis 56’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NYM Catriona Herreshoff Bounty Paul Gardiner 57’ Sail Catriona Sail Commander Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NYM Commander Nordhavn 40/11 TBD 40’ Power Easy Rider 94 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Koch Newton Easy Rider Horizon Zachary Paap 70’ Power YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Newport Yacht Management Charter Show Recap Extraordinary Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Cox Marine Extraordinary Nautor/Swan Bob Davidson 63’ Sail Independence 2 Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power The Sacks Group Independence 2 Broward Matt Braisted 106’ Power Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power ChurchillYachts Irishman Palmer Johnson Harold Moyer 92’ LOA Sail/Power Irishman Sail Island Voyager Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain Flagship Island Voyager Broward Donald Campbell 93’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Churchill Yacht Partners Katerina Offshore 80 Ben Fisher 80’ Power Katerina Power Katina Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power The Sacks Group Katina Hargrave John Drugach III 99’ Power Katya Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power LuxuryYacht Group Katya Sunseeker Lance Bondhu 94’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Merle Wood Associates Kipany Dave Johnson Westport 94’ Power Kipany YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Power VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 95 attending yachts Newport Yacht Management Charter Show Recap La Dolce Vita Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Fraser Yachts Worldwide La Dolce Vita Hargrave Andrew Law 109’ Power Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Broward Bernard Calot 103’ Power Lady Deborah Clearing House Yacht Name International Yacht Collection Lady Deborah Lady O Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Lady O Horizon MY Matt Vought 82.4’ Power Le Cochon Noir Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Le Cochon Noir CNB JensThor Madsen 74’ Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power LuxuryYacht Grp Lori Sue Westport Greg Gaus 106’ Power Sail Lori Sue Massimo Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power TBD Massimo Sunseeker Andrew Gromeeko 68’ Power Moondance 96 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Cox Marine Moondance Bristol Kyle Lyman 56’ Sail YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM Newport Yacht Management Charter Show Recap Mustang Sally Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Koch Newton Mustang Sally Trinity Brad Carpenter 124’ Power Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power NicholsonYachts Oasis Bristol Graham Furlong 60’ Oasis Sail On Seafari Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power The Sacks Group On Seafari Broward Keith Romer 108’ Power Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Marine Construction Management Paraiso Fontaine Custom Mark Welch 108’ Sail Paraiso Sovereign Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Northrup & Johnson Sovereign Broward Gui Garcia 120’ Power Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power Broward Roger Smith 103’ Power Taipan Clearing House International Yacht Collection Taipan Trilogy YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS Clearing House Yacht Name Type/Builder Captain LOA Sail/Power ChurchillYachts Trilogy Stephens Mike Witters 90’ Power VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 97 Newport Yacht Management Charter Show Recap NYM History Newport Yacht Management was formed in 1980 by the late Nigel Henderson, a former Yacht Captain of wide repute. In 1984 Tom Rowe joined the company and concentrated on developing a retail sales identity for the company. Prior to joining NYM, Tom sold new and used yachts in New York with McMichael and in Newport with Bartram & Brakenhoff. Stephen Connett Sr., president of Naiad Inflatable of Newport, Inc., works in conjunction with NYM. He started and ran the St. Georges’ School Semester at Sea Program for 27 years. He is a licensed captain, an experienced seaman with a thoroughgoing knowledge of yachts and safety at sea. Newport Yacht Management is a full service company within the confines of the marine industry. We help our clients with every aspect of ownership from acquisition to sale, from maintenance to the day-today running of their yachts. Our practical, hands-on knowledge combined with years of experience gives us a significant advantage over the competition, whether we’re supervising the diverse tasks involved in the creation of an owner’s dream or the myriad complexities of a major refit or simply helping a charter client pick out the perfect yacht and destination for the vacation of a lifetime experience. Whether you currently own a yacht, plan to purchase or build “your dream,” the NYM team is there, ready to provide for your every need. A yacht can be an excellent investment and ownership should be a pleasant, worry-free reward. See if our plan, “Making the Sea Work for You,” isn’t the best way to go yachting. 2006 Show dates: Mid June 2006 (firm dates will be announced shortly) With Appreciation To All Our Sponsors! City of Newport Distinctive Charter Yachts 98 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM YACHT VACATIONS & CHARTERS VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 99 ��� ����� �� � � �� � � � ���� � � � � �� � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ������ � The easiest way to join the jet set. FLEET AND FLEX JET MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS FROM DELTA AIRELITE. Now it’s easy to fi nd private jet travel that suits your needs. With two flexible membership options from Delta AirElite, you can choose your category, or choose your jet. Buy 25, 50, or 100 hours in our light, midsize, or large jet category with Fleet Membership. Or, if you prefer, choose 25 hours aboard a Bombardier Learjet or Challenger aircraft with our Flexjet Membership program. All with guaranteed availability, Medallion ® status in the Delta SkyMiles ® program, and 24/7 customer service. Pick the program that’s right for you and spend more time ripping waves with your shortboard. Fleet and Flexjet Membership. Nothing could be easier. www.AirElite.com/member 100 VOLUME:2 ISSUE:2 2005 877.DAE.JETS (323-5387) YACHTCHARTERSMAGAZINE.COM