Largest Yachts

Available in the Caribbean from 21 January to 21 February 2012, motor yacht SIREN is offering a special discounted rate to lure charter customers.

With permission of the yacht's owner, SailAway Yacht Charters is extending a 15% price break for any 7-night charter between January 21 and February 21, 2012.   The special rate is €400,000 per week, plus running expenses - a savings of €76,000, based on the published rate of €476,000 per week.

One of the largest luxury mega yachts available for hire, this vessel can accommodate 12 guests in 6 suites.

At 73 meters in overall length, this 2008 yacht was built by one of Germany’s most renowned shipyards - Nobiskrug. Motor yacht SIREN is certainly one of the most important mega yachts in the world today. Her design and build quality are second to none. The yacht’s deck spaces are a marvel in terms of style and usability.

Power and Motoryacht Magazine ranks this yacht at #53 on their annual list of the World’s 100 Largest Yachts.

Key Features:
►Minimalist design creates a feeling of balance and harmony
►Generous deck spaces provide an inspired platform for outdoor living, including an outdoor cinema.
►Vast array of water sports equipment
►Main stateroom's private balcony
►Full Gym
►Ondeck Jacuzzi

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For a list of all yachts offering winter and spring discounts, contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

Christened in September 2011, the proud owner and entire charter market eagerly await the arrival of the spectacular new 2012 motor yacht VAVA II from  Pendennis Plus (formerly Devonport Yachts).  At 96 meters in length, motor yacht VAVA II is one of the largest yachts ever built in the United Kingdom.

The former Devonport Project-55 now yacht VAVA II features a Redman Whitely Dixon exterior, with interiors by renowned designer Remi Tessier.

Sea trials are nearly completed and the yacht will soon join the global charter market.  The impressive superyacht is built to SOLAS-36 passenger ship regulations and will set a new standard in the charter market for 2012 and beyond.

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Other  large-capacity yachts available for hire include 36-passenger motor yacht CHRISTINA O,  40-passenger motor yacht LAUREN L, and the 26-passenger motor yacht SHERAKHAN.  For more information, contact the SailAway large boat specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Recent reports in the Indian press seem to indicate a new yachting culture has hit Indian shores.  Globe-trotting Indians are starting to flaunt express cruisers and speedboats as new symbols of wealth, some event turning to renting large yachts for family vacations.

According to Malav Shroff of Mumbai-based Mahindra Ocean Group, "After you have luxury cars, upmarket living spaces, high-end accessories and farm houses, where would you spend your money? Yachts are becoming elements of aspiration for many."   

Anju Dutta, a sales broker for Marine Solutions says sports cruisers are hot picks. "We have sold 45 Sea Ray sports boats and cruisers in the last year...in places like Goa, Cochin and Kolkata," she says. Marine Solutions also gets demand for premium Italian models like the Ferretti 570 motor yacht. More commonly seen in the Mediterranean yacht charter market, such as the Ferretti motor yacht NUMBER OF COWES, interest in both buying and chartering mid-range Ferretti models in India is on the rise.

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters has been monitoring the increased demand for yachts in India.  "Mumbai is the country's yacht capital, says Sheeder. "The number of motoryachts in the city has increased form 100 to over 200 in the past three years. The city has over 700km of waterfront exposure and the Maharashtra government has plans to develop multiple marinas.  This is truly an emerging yachting market."  

While many Indian-owned yachts are used exclusively by the owners, others are now available for charter both in India and in ports around the world.  Vijay Mallya owns the 95-meter motor yacht INDIAN EMPRESS which Sheeder and her company offer for hire at a weekly rate of €600,000 plus expenses. 

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Rent Private Yacht - Contact SailAway at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today to join in the fun, and discover the joys of luxury yacht charter vacations.

For years, the name Lürssen has been synonymous with some of the most luxurious, and certainly the largest yachts available for charter.  Mammoth-sized vessels such as the 70 meter motor yacht MARTHA ANN and the 60 meter motor yacht SOLEMATES are testaments to the 130 yr old German shipbuilder's dedication to craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

The latest launch by the acclaimed builder is no exception.  Lurssen motor yacht ACE has the distinction of being the first superyacht to splash down in 2012.  She measures 87 meters, and left the company's shipyard in Rendsburg on January 9th. Motor yacht ACE is designed by Andrew Winch Design.  Her exterior is both unique and instantly recognizable.

The unanswered, million-dollar question: Will motor yacht ACE enter the luxury yacht charter market in 2012?

Stay tuned...

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Lürssen yachts currently available for charter include the aforementioned M/Y MARTHA ANN and motoryacht SOLEMATES as well as the 60 meter motor yacht ARKLEY and the 63 meter motor yacht POLAR STAR.  For more information about the "Lure of Lürssen," contact the SailAway megayacht experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

Anyone who follows our daily nautical blogs knows we love two things  - the world's largest yachts...and gadgets (especially gadgets that can be utilized and enjoyed during a luxury yacht charter).

With the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show underway in Las Vegas, it's time to pick our favorite new gadgets for 2012.  Here are our top three new gadgets of CES 2012:

GRIFFIN TWENTY
Megayachts like Feadship yacht charter vessel LADY BRITT and the themed James Bond boat Benetti motor yacht DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER feature iPod docking stations integrated into a ship-wide audio system.   For yachts without a centralized audio system, the Griffin Twenty should prove to be a popular addition to onboard entertainment options. 

The Griffin Twenty streaming audio device turns any Apple AirPort Express into a full stereo system.

The device has a simple, elegant design, just a plug for the AirPort Express and a large dial for volume. As its name implies, the Twenty has an internal 20-watt amp and outputs for left and right stereo speakers, plus a kickin' subwoofer. The concept is simple - the dial controls the volume, while the rest of the interface is taken care of through your iPhone, iPad or computer.

ROKU STREAMING STICK
Many Caribbean yacht charter vessels offer satellite TV as well as WiFi while dockside.  What's often missing is the charter guests favorite online content. 

Using the new HDMI MHL standard, the Roku Streaming Stick plugs into a port on newer TVs. The stick instantly gives any compatible set access to all of Roku's online content, from providers such as MLB, Netflix, and Pandora. The stick requires no dedicated power, features built-in WiFi, and is set to  launch in 2012 for under $100.

GO PRO Wi-Fi BACPAC
Whether enjoying a bareboat charter or a vacation on a fully-crewed yacht, waterproof cameras are a must.  YouTube is saturated with amateur vids of adrenaline junkies riding waverunners, bananas, and zipping along with underwater scooters.

The Go Pro name has become synonymous with adventure/sports photography, and the Wi-Fi BacPac and remote combo kit will users even more control over their favorite cameras.  Just snap the BacPac onto an HD Hero2 and you can control the camera from a durable, waterproof wrist-ready remote.  Using the Go Pro app, you can also control the camera from a smartphone, tablet, or computer via a peer-to-peer Wi-Fi connection. 

The BacPac also lets you stream a live view from the camera to your mobile devices, making sure you're getting just the right shot.

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Seen any great new must-have gadgets?  Contact the SailAway tech geeks at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html with your favorite new gadgets and apps, and we'll share your comments with our readers.

Last week, we reported on an increase of newly-built superyachts entering the market, in combination with fewer weeks of yachting vacations being sold.

In the category of yachts from 30 to 50 meters (about 100 to 165 feet), there was a 28 per cent increase in the number of yachts on the charter market in 2010. At the same time, the same market segment saw a reduction of 10.7 per cent in weekly base rates.

A decrease in the number of charter weeks sold worldwide (down 9 percent in 2010, from 2009) and increased competition due to a growing number of new yachts, means owners must look for new ways to attract potential customers.

So what is emerging as the newest marketing trend in 2012 to lure new and repeat clients?

WELLNESS VACATIONS...

Spa and Wellness Charters - the largest yachts in the world have accepted the challenge to compete with the world's best land-based spas. Exercise equipment, once a novelty on yachts and relegated to a small area on deck, has given way to fully-equipped onboard fitness centers and workout rooms. 

NFL Washington Redskins owner Daniel Snyder, for example, recently purchased the Amels motor yacht LADY S

The recently-launched 70 meter motor yacht NUMPTIA provides an entire deck for wellness.  The existence of an true "Spa Deck" shows how unique this Italian-built yacht really is.

A sauna, steam room, and fully-equipped gym are complimented by a private outdoor area with comfortable sunbeds. Adjacent massage and beauty rooms serve as suitable options for total relaxation. Breakfast, light lunches, even barbecues can be enjoyed outside on the spa deck as well, for the outside forward area has been set up with a bar and barbecue.

Look for 2012 to be the year onboard masseuses and wellness crew members offering aromatherapy, meditation, and yoga classes becoming commonplace on many of the world's newest yachts.

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Rent private yacht - Ease your mind and body with a wellness vacation.  Contact the SailAway charter specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

The tiny island nation of St Barts once again played host to celebrities, business icons and the world's largest yachts to celebrate New Year's Eve 2011.

With fireworks bursting overhead, many revelers made their way to the £59 million island estate of Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich for his annual party.  Estimated to cost £5 million (about $7.7 million US Dollars), the star-studded event featured a live performance by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Many stayed on the Russian's 536 foot superyacht ECLIPSE – the world's largest private yacht with two helicopter pads, a submarine, and two swimming pools.  Other yachts anchored in the harbor or along the quay included the 377 foot motor yacht LUNA,  Feadship yacht charter motor yacht DREAM, and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen motor yacht TATOOSH.

Some of the A-list celebrities and guests seen on yachts, and in restaurants and clubs included Star Wars creator George Lucas, designer Marc Jacobs, singer Jon Bon Jovi, media tycoon Rupert Murdoch, and music mogul Russell Simmons and his Australian actress-girlfriend, Melissa George.

Revelers on yachts came ashore in tenders, before being whisked off in chauffeured cars to the various parties taking place across the island.

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To plan your own special event on a private yacht, contact the destination pros at SailAway at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

As the year draws to a close, luxury yacht charter maven Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, is beaming.  "We've closed our year with the addition of 40 brand new 2011 models to our global network of yacht charter vessels.  The largest of our new offerings is the 81 meter Feadship motor yacht AIR, followed by Proteksan Turquoise yacht TALISMAN C and Rossi Navi motor yacht NUMPTIA, both 70 meters in overall length."

With a reputation for offering the newest and largest yachts in the world's best destinations, Sheeder and her team at SailAway spend countless hours identifying potential charter yachts. "Rarely do we add any yacht to our fleet that is more than two to three years old, " says Sheeder.  "Even when we consider classic-styled yachts, we prefer to promote modern reproductions of famous yachts.  Clients know they can turn to us for yachts that are on the cutting edge of new technology and styling."

An example of Sheeder's pursuit of modern yachts is the newly launched 47 meter sail yacht GERMANIA NOVA, a replica of a classic racing schooner first launched in 1908. Says Sheeder, "Turn of the century guests onboard the original yacht would marvel at the technological comforts onboard this modern vessel. From satellite televisions to 5.1 Dolby surround sound, the only thing 'old' on this yacht is the classic design."

Many of the new yachts are award winners in global design competitions, such as the annual ShowBoats Design Awards.  "We pay close attention to these competitions," reports Sheeder.  "The best designers and naval architects in the world judge these yachts.  Odds are great that if the best minds in the industry like a boat, our clients will, too."

Recent award winners promoted by SailAway to their clients include late 2010 launch Perini Navi motor yacht EXUMA (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Displacement Motor Yachts 100′-199′), and the 42 meter Holland Jachtbouw motor yacht CALLIOPE (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Semi-displacement Motor Yachts).

As to the new year, Sheeder is even more optimistic.  "Our research indicates that 72 new megayachts were ordered in 2011, the largest at 100 meters, and an average length of almost 43 meters. Eighty per cent of these newly-built yachts will be launched in 2012 or 2013, and we'll surely have an entirely new inventory of yachts-for-hire to present to our clients!" 

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To charter a newly launched yacht in 2012, contact SailAway's charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

They say, "Time flies when you're having fun."  It seems like yesterday we were looking forward to the launchings of 2011's newest yachts, and planning charters for special events like the 2011 Cannes Film Festival and the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix.

As the year winds down and clients make their last-minute preparations for Christmas and New Year's Caribbean yacht charters, we take a minute to look back at our most popular yachting-related stories of 2011:  

Must-Have New Gadgets for 2012 - Our Top Three
Going on a Virgin Islands yacht charter is loads of fun, but getting there can be tedious.  Having a cool new gadget on hand is a great way to kill some time...

Blake Lively and Leonardo DiCaprio SailAway Onboard Steven Spielberg Yacht
While gossip websites circulated a series of photographs purporting to show the "Gossip Girl" actress posing naked, Blake and Leo were seen relaxing and laughing onboard motoryacht SEVEN SEAS, Speilberg's multi-million dollar superyacht, during the recent Cannes Film Festival 2011...

Leave Your Clothes Behind - Top 2 Clothing Optional Caribbean Yacht Charter Destinations
It has been said a great vacation is all about escaping. For many, that means escaping the confines of their homes and the rigors of their work.  For others, it is best achieved by escaping the confines of their clothes...

Top Three Well-Traveled Celebrity Couples
From après-ski private chalets in Vail, to multi-deck behemoth superyacht vessels in the Caribbean, some celebrity power couples take traveling to the extreme...

European Prince Encourages Superyacht Industry to Go Green
The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has introduced a program to encourage the builders of the world's largest yachts to use timber from sustainably managed forests...

World's Newest and Largest Yachts on Display in Monaco
Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway reflects on the Monaco Yacht Show - one of the greatest showcases of luxury charter vessels in the world.  Each year, approximately 100 megayachts from 25 to 90 meters long are on display.  What makes this show truly unique is the number of new yachts on hand.  About 40 of the newest  superyachts delivered in the past 12 months are on exhibit...

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Make 2012 a year to remember.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to arrange an unforgettable yachting vacation with your family and friends.

Known for exceptional achievement in building semi-custom luxury mega yacht charter vessels, Westport Yachts has launched motor yacht LEGACY, the latest new build in the company's flagship Westport 164 series.

The tri-deck 50 meter motor yacht LEGACY can accommodate twelve guests in unsurpassed luxury.

Prized by owners for the artistry of the yacht's contours as for the substance of its construction, the Westport 164 represents a landmark achievement in large yacht design.  Developed using leading-edge three-dimensional modeling and structural software applications also used in the aviation industry, Westport yacht LEGACY has met every objective for speed, ride, maneuverability, integrity, and overall quality.  



The modern exterior is credited to world-renowned designer Donald Starkey and naval architect William Garden.  Their collaboration created a refined hull form for exceptional ocean-going performance, plus an innovative accommodation plan which balances interior and on-deck spaces for maximum enjoyment and versatility.  The yacht's contemporary styling will ensure lasting appeal, and should prove popular with Caribbean yacht charter clientele. 

No word as to when the yacht will be available for charter consideration.  With 15 popular Westport yachts currently available for hire in the South Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean, Westport aficionados hope to soon see this magnificent yacht on the charter market.

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To charter a Westport yacht, contact the SailAway yacht vacation specialists at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html  today.

Chef Renee Kappetein, aboard sail catamaran WORLD'S END, bested over a dozen talented luxury yacht charter chefs in the 50th annual Antigua Charter Yacht Show culinary competition.

Renee, the live-aboard chef on the Fountaine Pajot Galathea 65 catamaran took first prize
in the division for yachts under 100 feet.  Second place was awarded to Adrian Martinon aboard catamaran LADY ALLIAURA. 

Third place honors went to chef Caro Uy onboard Sunreef 70 catamaran MUSE.  Readers might remember Caro from her profile in September outlining her passion for cooking and her love of travel.

Other winners included second place to Heather Kaniuk aboard motor yacht NUMPTIA in the superyacht division for boats 160 feet and larger;  and chef Melinda Heinze onboard the world's largest luxury sailing catamaran HEMISPHERE in the 100 to 159-foot category.

Kappetein's victory earned him a profile story in an upcoming edition of Showboats International magazine, a silver-framed certificate, a magnum of Piper champagne, a Liat airline ticket to anywhere in the Caribbean, a Williams-Sonoma gift certificate, and a stay at the 5-star Antigua Yacht Club Marina Resort.

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Come spend a week with family and friends aboard the Fountaine Pajot 65 catamaran WORLD'S END.  Your crew will escort you to the most beautiful anchorages in the Caribbean.  Discover magnificent islands, nature and warm and friendly new cultures. The itinerary, activities and the menu will be based on your preferences, to guarantee you and your guests a unique experience to cherish for a lifetime. 

Contact the SailAway Yacht Charter destination team today to book your luxury yacht charter vacation.

The ancient city of Istanbul will play host to the seventh annual World Superyacht Awards
at the luxurious Çırağan Palace Kempinski on 5 May, 2012.

Combining a glittering awards ceremony with a gala dinner/dance, the Awards , often dubbed the “Oscars” of the superyacht industry, will be attended by an elite guest list of megayacht owners from around the globe.

While the nominations include private yachts as well as charter vessels, it's the newest and largest yachts for hire that seem to steal the show each year.  Some of the winners at the six annual installment in London, May 7, 2011 include:

► BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT - 1,300 GT to 2,999 GT
Winner: SYCARA V
 

► BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT - 500 GT to 1,299 GT
Winner: MARY-JEAN II
 

► BEST DISPLACEMENT MOTOR YACHT under 500 GT
Winner: EXUMA 
Judges’ Commendation: BIG FISH  

► THREE DECK SEMI-DISPLACEMENT OR PLANING MOTOR YACHT
Winner: CALLIOPE 

► MOTOR YACHT OF THE YEAR
Joint Winner: Eclipse
Joint Winner: EXUMA 

► BEST SAILING YACHT - 45 meters and up
Winner: Zefira
Judges’ Special Award: ATLANTIC
Judges’ Special Award: KOKOMO
Judges’ Commendation: TWIZZLE 

► BEST SAILING YACHT - 30 meters to 44.99 meters
Winner: IMAGINE 

Straddling the Bosphorus Strait separating Europe and Asia, Istanbul embodies the best of both cultures. The city has been the capital of three empires, each leaving a heritage of amazing architecture and monuments.

Once an Ottoman palace, the Çırağan Palace Kempinski Istanbul is located on the European shores of the Bosphorus with spectacular views over the strait. A 5-star resort, it is a registered member of The Leading Hotels of the World. Its 313 luxurious rooms include 20 suites in the hotel and 11 suites in the historical palace.

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To attend the superyacht awards ceremony, contact the SailAway special events department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/special_events.php.

While there are numerous awards for megayacht designers and builders of the largest luxury yacht charter vessels, the crews of these floating works were often overlooked - until now.

A new competition has been organized by yacht management company Krystal Yachts, and the search is on for the world's best yacht crewmembers. 

Supercrew 2012 is designed to allow superyacht captains to recognize outstanding members in their employ.  Presented quarterly, and based on the exclusive nominations of captains, the award goes to the individual that best demonstrates the qualities of ability, attitude and going the extra mile.

Each quarter a panel of judges will determine the winner.  The winner will receive an engraved iPad and be included on the guest lists of all future Krystal Yachts events.

The competition is open to professional crew members who work on any luxury yacht.

Nominations for Supercrew 2012 open in January, 2012.

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Come experience the service of a highly-trained, professional crew on your own yachting holiday.  Contact the SailAway Yacht Charter specialists for further vacation details.

From gymnasiums, helicopters and onboard Kaleidescape movie theaters, today's modern superyacht has every affluent amenity imaginable.  Yet the most requested amenity by prospective charter customers remains one of the oldest, time-tested features:  the on-deck hot tub.
  
Is there a better way to unwind each night during a yachting vacation than enjoying a warm soak under the stars?

The benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy are well-documented - warm water therapy can promote relaxation, stress reduction and pain relief.  It's also a fun way to spend quality time with your travel companions  - sipping wine and planning your next day's adventures.

In the early years of the charter industry, most ondeck tubs were portable tubs - the same as those found in many homes.  Today's ondeck megayacht hydrotherapy tubs are permanent, built-in amenities, designed by naval architects and molded into the yacht's superstructure. 

Today we take a look at five of the best hydrotherapy tubs on five equally spectacular charter yachts:

SHERAKHAN
The 228-foot motor yacht SHERAKHAN has one of the largest sundeck hot tubs aboard any charter yacht.  The tub features an opaque bottom, allowing natural light to filter into the two-story dining room directly below.   

ST. EKATERINA
Benetti yacht charter enthusiasts like to brag about the hot tub onboard the 196ft motor yacht ST. EKATERINA (formerly motor yacht XANADU).  The large tub is within easy viewing distance of a two-way cinema screen. Charter guests can enjoy a film while soaking in the tub, and then not miss a single scene while moving over to the sundeck wet bar for a refreshing cocktail.

BATON ROUGE
The 205-foot Icon motor yacht BATON ROUGE  features an oversized sundeck hot tub that doubles as an endless pool with swimming jets for anyone wanting more than the regular water pressure. Overhead, cool-water jets shower guests in a light, refreshing mist.

ANDREAS L
Another Benetti motor yacht, the 196ft yacht ANDREAS L has a hot tub with submerged bar stools, for guests who prefer to enjoy their refreshments sitting upright as opposed to the common hot tub lounging position.

NUMPTIA
Leave it to the Italians to redefine the modern style of the ondeck hot tub.  The owner of the 70 meter (230 ft) Rossi Navi motor yacht NUMPTIA turned to Design Studio Spadolini, of Florence to create a modern hot tub masterpiece.  The floor-level tub and endless-style pool is the centerpiece on the yacht's sun deck, and features colored mood lighting, an infinity glass edge on one side, and two powerful waterfall-style showers dropping volumes of water into the pool. 

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Seen any other amazing hot tubs or onboard amenities on a yacht?  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html, send us a photo, and we'll share your images and comments with our readers.

The crew of a popular Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel has come up with a plan to be greener and save their customers money.

Recognizing many charter clients end up eating a meal or two ashore during a typical week-long yachting vacation,  sail catamaran SILVER MOON has announced a half board food option.

While a typical all-inclusive charter features 3 meals a day, the half board option includes all breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners, along with beverages, the standard ship's bar, and snacks.  All other meals are taken ashore at the guest's expense.

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway, explains the benefits of a half board option: "Part of the attraction of a yachting vacation is the chance to indulge in local customs and foods.  Sometimes, fresh food on the yachts goes to waste as the clients tend to eat ashore two or three times a week in the various ports of call.   The half board option cuts down on waste, preparation materials and cleanup," explains Sheeder.

Clients can save money, too, as the overall cost of the boating vacation can be reduced to reflect the fewer meals and food served onboard.

Here's the price breakdown on S/Y SILVER MOON:

Passengers        Half-Board   All-Inclusive
2                        $  8,000       $  8,600 
3                            8,560           9,200 
4                            9,115           9,800 
5                            9,775         10,500 
6                           10,325        11,100 
 


The sailing yacht SILVER MOON is a 44'  catamaran launched in 2002.  She offers 3 guest cabins, each with a queen berth and private bathroom. The yacht is equipped with wind scoops to limit the need for air conditioning.  The crew also purchases earth-friendly paper products, biodegradable cleaning products, and local organic produce when available. 

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Other catamarans available in the Caribbean this winter include the world's largest catamaran, the 145'  sail yacht HEMISPHERE, the 75' sail catamaran LADY ALLIAURA, and the 65' sail catamaran WORLD'S END.  For more information, contact the SailAway catamaran sailing charter experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Here's a staggering statistic: The number of megayachts worldwide has more than doubled in the last decade. While welcome news for the luxury mega yacht charter market, the development of new marinas sufficient in size to accommodate the largest yachts has not kept up with demand. 

The yachting community is still talking about this summer's incident in Antibes when a Saudi prince docked his 265-foot yacht in the last available slip at Millionaire’s Quay in Cap d’Antibes, leaving Russia's most prominent yachtsman, Roman Abramovich. to moor his 533-foot motor yacht ECLIPSE offshore. 

READ the full story at http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2029182/Roman-Abramovichs-1bn-yacht-dock-Saudi-princes-boat-parked.html

Fortunately, the international marina industry is capitalizing on cutting-edge trends to make sure modern new facilities are built to accommodate these yachts. 
 
Here's a quick look at the latest trends in new megayacht marina construction:

Quiet Waters

In the past, it was good enough to build a marina anywhere along the coast.  For the new, large megayachts, calm waters are a must.  Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters explains:  “As a megayacht owner, you don't invest millions of dollars in the construction and design of a comfortable vessel to end up rocking and rolling in an unprotected marina all night.  New marinas must put great emphasis in large slips in calm water areas."

Elbow Room
 
To accommodate larger vessels, current trends are for providing for no less than 1.5 times maximum LOA (length overall) fairways.  This will allow new facilities to anticipate and compensate for bigger and bigger yachts. 


Flotation

Another trend in modern dock design is the use of floating docks.  In the past, megayachts needed to be moored at fixed piers with high freeboard.  New floating dock systems will have higher freeboard capacity to accommodate the larger vessels.

Yachts and Watts

Adequate power is a real challenge for new marinas. Sheeder explains: "As the yachts continue to get bigger their appetite for more power increases as well.  This puts a large burden on the marina developer and the locality to provide sufficient electricity for these yachts.  New facilities will need to bring power to the finger piers to minimize line drop (a loss of electricity in the line as it travels over any distance), and deliver power in varying phases and cycles.

Other Trends

According to industry analysts other top trends include:

●  In-slip fueling and sanitary pump outs -  "Speed and efficiency are important issues," says Sheeder.  “Moving yachts is expensive and can be very time-consuming."

●  Vehicle-friendly piers  -  Accommodating vehicular traffic and convenient boarding.

●  Shoreside Facilities & Amenities -  Onshore facilities and amenities at modern megayacht marinas has become a major focal point.   Pools, fitness centers, crew lounges, and computer facilities will be the norm.  On-site concierge services will give crews, owners, and yacht charter clients access to entertainment options, restaurants, doctors and health clinics and more. 

●  Wireless Technological Advances  -  With larger yachts come larger crew complements.  Wi-Fi bandwidth at new marinas must be large enough to accommodate the demands of more crew members when they arrive in port and jump on Skype and the Internet.  Look for marinas to turn to emerging technology such as WiMAX 4G.  No hard wiring or link to the marina’s IT infrastructure is required. 

Future Expectations

What can we expect to see in megayacht marinas in the future?  Sheeder is confident that the industry will remain committed to eco-friendly technological advances. “We expect a continuing emphasis on unique destinations. As we look for incremental growth beyond traditional Caribbean yacht charter destinations, we must push for green technology in all new marinas. Energy efficiency, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship must be the norm in the future."

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Contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to experience the newest and largest yachts in the world's best destinations.

With the recent launch of their latest project, the 70 meter motor yacht NUMPTIA, Italian shipyard Rossi Navi Yachts has turned out a spectacular superyacht, from her unconventional layout to her uniquely crafted designs and top notch engineering. The overall styling of Rossi Navi yacht NUMPTIA transcends mere description.  Part modern, part contemporary yet classically-influenced, the yacht presents a delicate balance of timeless elegance and finesse. 

Interior designer Achille Salvagni is responsible for the yacht's unorthodox design, which fits the redefining onboard life according to the owner's wishes.  Utilizing a closely-matched color palette, highlighted with subtle lighting, a warm and welcoming atmosphere was created. Salvagni used natural materials, woods and natural stones, to give each deck a unique personality. One observer described the look as, "...a mesmerizing sense of style...that celebrates, almost worships, good taste and luxury in a rich yet subtle manner."  

Guests can easily move about by use of an elegant, centrally-placed circular glass elevator that visits all decks, except the sun deck.

The full beam master suite is situated on the main deck, forward. It consists of a study, reading area, central bedroom and television area. The ensuite bathroom offers a central bathtub and a shower area, and adjacent his and hers dressing rooms.  A sizeable VIP cabin is located on the bridge deck. Four guest cabins are available on the lower deck.

The existence of an true "Spa deck" shows how unique the yacht really is. The sauna, steam room, and fully-equipped gym are complimented by a private outdoor area with comfortable sunbeds.

After a workout, the adjacent massage and beauty rooms serve as suitable options for total relaxation. Breakfast, light lunches, even barbecues can be enjoyed outside on the spa deck as well, for the outside forward area has been set up with a bar and barbecue.










Rates begin at € 490,000 per week, plus expenses.   For more photos and details of the largest yachts for hire around the world, click here at http://www.1800sailaway.com/brochure/largest-yachts

Earlier this week, the 686-foot (209 meter) Yacht Express, the flagship of Dockwise Yacht Transport’s (DYT) fleet of semi-submersible ships, pulled into Ft. Lauderdale.  Onboard was a record breaking cargo of boats and luxury yacht charter vessels valued collectively at $270,341,000.   The gray and orange-colored super ship took a berth at Port Everglades and began an hours-long de-ballasting process that allowed sea water to flood its dock bay.  By early evening,  19 state-of-the-art luxury yachts safely motored out the back and into the waters of South Florida.

The largest of the vessels to off-load was Trinity motor yacht MI SUENO.  The 190’ (57.91 meter) megayacht had loaded on to Yacht Express in Genoa, Italy on October 6. She had just returned from the Monaco Yacht Show and was delivered to South Florida to enter the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Captain Glynn Smith explained the reason the 190'  Trinity yacht charter vessel is delivered via  transport ship:  “The reason that Mi Sueno is shipped must be credited to the yacht’s owner who really knows how to look after his crew and boat.  The crew needs time off after such a busy Mediterranean yacht charter season, and shipping...gives us that option."  

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, further explains how wear and tear on a yacht during the Atlantic crossing is avoided by using a transport ship.  "A typical Atlantic crossing can add 400 to 500 hours on a yacht's engines and generators, not to mention unforeseen incidents that might occur in the middle of the ocean.”

Several of the other yachts on Yacht Express have shipped with DYT multiple times, including the 163’ (49.70 meter) motor yacht CASINO ROYALE, the 160’ (48.78 meter) ODESSA (four times each), the 161’ (49.09 meter) ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM (seven times), and the 132 foot (40.24 meter) motor yacht MISS ROSE.

DYT had a second transport arrive from the Mediterranean this week. The ship Super Servant 4, arrived in Ft. Lauderdale on Friday from Palma de Mallorca, Spain, fully loaded with 24 yachts totaling $190,000,000 in value. Some of the sailboats were offloaded, bound for St. Thomas, USVI, in time for the Caribbean charter season.

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For more information about megayachts transported to destinations around the world, contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html .

This past Tuesday evening, October 25th, at the exclusive Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, the winners of the 2011 ShowBoats Design Awards were announced.  For the second year in a row, several mega yacht charter vessels proved popular with the judges and edged out private yachts for awards in design excellence.

A VIP audience of superyacht owners and the industry’s leading creative talents were on hand to see the 188ft sail yacht TWIZZLE, a luxury sailing charter vessel, declared the winner in the Recreational Area for Guest Use and Interior Design categories.  Justin Redman of the design team at Redman Whiteley Dixon accepted the Neptune award for TWIZZLE.

Other charter yachts receiving honors included:

●  Motor yacht EXUMA - Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Displacement Motor Yachts 100′-199′

●  Motor yacht CALLIOPE - Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Semi-displacement Motor Yachts

●  Motor yacht BIG FISH - Naval Architecture Award: Motor Yachts

●  Sail yacht KOKOMO - Naval Architecture Award: Sailing Yachts

Motor yacht EXUMA , the 264'  yacht built by the Perini Navi Group and Picchiotti, and featuring exterior styling by Vitruvius Ltd and naval architect Philippe Briand, was also recognized with an Environmental Protection Award.


 
"For the second year in a row, the world's finest yachts for hire were in the spotlight," beamed Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.  "There's a deep commitment by these yacht owners to build vessels with amenities and aesthetics that are appealing to prospective charter clients.  We are so proud to represent these amazing yachts, as they are among the newest and largest yachts available in the world's best destinations."

Private yachts were by no means shut out of the awards.  The 312ft Blohm & Voss motor yacht PALLADIUM was the evening’s biggest winner, as designers Mick Leach and Mark Smith took home four Neptune Awards for Tender Design, Bespoke Furniture Item, Exterior Design & Styling and Interior Design.

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Many award-winning yachts are available for hire this winter and spring in warm weather destinations, including Grand Bahama,  St Barts, and St Lucia.  Contact the SailAway yacht charter destination pros at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details.

There's no denying it - megayacht owners love their toys and gadgets.  If it's new and trendy in 2011, you'll find it on a luxury yacht charter vessel - everything from Mercedes Benz-styled helicopters  to the latest Crestron touchpad-controlled CD/DVD players, and video game consoles.

Deep pockets and a zest for staying ahead of the pack keeps these owners in the hunt for the hottest gadgets on the market.  That same quest for the newest gadgets also means the owner's yachts are the perfect barometer for not only what is new, but also what gadgets are destined to go the way of the dinosaur.

If the purchasing whims of the owners of some of the largest Caribbean yacht charter vessels are any indication, expect to see these three tech gadgets phased out this decade:

At sea, megayacht skippers rely on radar and a whole host of maritime equipment to navigate.  But when the yachts arrive in a new port of call, the crews use standalone GPS navigation systems to use for shore excursions.  "Fewer yachts are carrying portable navigation devices like those sold by TomTom and Garmin," says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters. "Every crewmember has a mobile phone and many skippers have smartphones provided by yacht owner.  These modern phones all feature interactive maps and built-in navigational systems."

Digital Cameras
Digital cameras are common on yachts.  While at seas, crews use the cameras to take photos of mechanical issues, which can be downloaded and emailed to a shore-based engineer for analysis. With the recent unveiling of the Apple iPhone 4S, digital camera makers have much to be worried about. Apple's newest phone has an impressive 8-megapixel camera that takes in more light than earlier models and records HD video at 1080p. Until recently, such impressive specs were unique to digital cameras.  Increasingly, smartphones are taking over the low-end camera market.

Captain Peter Vasquez and his 118-foot motoryacht ISLAND TIME are regulars on the Bahama yacht charters circuit. Vasquez points out the appeal of one device that can perform multiple tasks. "Camera functions are being taken over by smartphones," says Vasquez. "There's little incentive to carry around a camera when I already have a phone in my pocket that takes quality pictures."

Video Game Consoles
From the largest yachts like Steven Spielberg owned 282' motor yacht SEVEN SEAS, to the newest yachts  like 2011 motor yacht NUMPTIA, popular video game systems such as the Nintendo Wii, Sony PlayStation® and Microsoft Xbox are installed in many of the staterooms for the use of onboard guests.

In the near future analysts predict consumers will forgo game consoles and instead
buy smart televisions with a gaming system built into it, or tablets with gaming apps and options "We've already witnessed the emergence of an iPad controlled boat app on motor yacht SOLEMATES," says Sheeder.  "The captain hands each guest their own iPad when they board.  These tablets offer control of all shipboard entertainment systems.  Yacht owners tell us they plan on shifting from video gaming consoles to more comprehensive systems with other entertainment options such as movies."

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What other electronic gadget do you think will be obsolete in the near future? DVD players?  E-readers?   Contact us at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html and let us know what you think and we'll share your predictions with our readers.