Luxury Mega Yacht Charter

The owner of the 130' Westport motor yacht MARY ALICE II has announced a special rate for Bahama yacht charters this winter!

Now through April 30, book a regular 7-night charter for $100,000 per week ($120,000 per week for 2011 year-end holidays) on motor yacht MARY ALICE II and receive an additional 3 nights for free!

In addition to the special rate of 10 nights for price of 7, the owner will waive all delivery fees to move the yacht from its home port in South Florida to the Bahamas - a savings of approximately $4000.

The yacht has also secured hard-to-come-by dockage at the famous Atlantis resort and marina in Nassau (Paradise Island), for the year-end holidays!!

The immaculately-kept 130' Westport yacht MARY ALICE II boasts brand new interior soft goods and AV equipment.  She accommodates 10/12 guests in 5 staterooms and will allow 2 more children to sleep on air mattresses in sky lounge.

Her ondeck Master suite has opening windows for fresh air, and blackout blinds for total privacy. Four guest cabins are located belowdeck and feature King beds, two of which can convert to twins.

Other amenities include a skylounge with satellite TV and an 8-person hydrotherapy hot tub.  Active guest will enjoy two waverunners, kayaks, underwater Seabobs, and a high performance 34' Regulator-brand towed tender.

Captain Kelly Esser and his crew of 5 look forward to treating their guests to the time of their lives in the Bahamas or Florida!

CLICK here to view a high-def video of the yacht and her amenities!

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For further information about chartering in the Bahamas, contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html

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.

Like it or not, information in "Real time" is a way of life.  Whether its the latest Tweet by Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore, the tumbling Euro in the continuing global debt crisis, or the 12th hour NBA lockout negotiations - we need our information now, as it happens, streaming live to our smart phones and laptops.

Staying connected is a way of life, even when we travel for pleasure.  The mega yacht charter industry, frequently viewed as pathfinders in embracing technology and gadgets, clearly understands the need to be wired.  Industry insiders report nearly 98% of all megayachts for hire feature onboard WiFi service for use of their guests.

But is WiFi all you need to stay in touch with the real world during a charter holiday?  According to Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, WiFi is only one part of the answer.  "Clients often ask if the yacht they are considering for their vacation has WiFi," says Sheeder. "What they really should be asking is, 'Does the yacht have VSAT.'"

Many yachts with WiFi capability can only access the Internet when they are in close proximity to a WiFi server.  Many marinas have WiFi servers;  but what happens when the yacht sets off for a remote cove for a day of swimming and snorkeling?  Unless the yacht has VSAT, the onboard WiFi capabilities are rendered useless.

VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) is simply a satellite system. The superyacht has a dome and antenna onboard that connects from just about anywhere at sea to a satellite in space. "Having VSAT onboard means the client can be anchored off the coast of a remote island during a Caribbean yacht charter, flip open their laptop, and use WiFi to connect to the Internet," explains Sheeder.

When booking your next yachting holiday, be sure to ask for a specific breakdown of the yacht's WiFi systems.

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For information about megayacht vacations in exotic ports of call, contact the SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Boasting a color scheme more common at the Monaco Grand Prix, the 37-Meter Heeson motor yacht AURELIA has announced plans to relocate this winter to Saint Martin, just in time for the launch of the Caribbean yacht charter season.  The stunning, brand new Heesen yacht, with a highly experienced charter crew, is available from mid December, 2011 through April 2012.

Inspired by the owner’s passion for racing cars, motor yacht AURELIA features an unusual exterior paint job from Dobroserdov Design.  The Bannenberg & Rowell interior of motor yacht AURELIA is race-inspired as well. Luxury yacht charter guests will be impressed by the richness of materials and elaborate details used to create the yacht’s interiors.

Accommodations are offered for 8 guests in four staterooms, each cabin named after racing car designers. The master suite is located forward on the main deck and three double guest cabins are positioned on the lower deck. Bertone (orange Lamborghini), Pininfarina (red Ferrari), and Zagato (green Aston Martin) are the racecar designers who inspired the décor of the guest cabins.

The yacht's key features include:

● Kaleidescape entertainment system
● Stabilizers to minimize rocking and heighten onboard comfort
● Huge outdoor deck space for entertaining and relaxing
● Impressive list of aqua-sport toys
● Highly experienced charter crew

Motor yacht AURELIA is available at the rate of €105,000 - €120,000 per week, plus running expenses (items such as food, fuel, bar and dockage).

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For further information or to charter your own private luxury racing yacht, contact the SailAway yacht charter specialists at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html. 

The beautiful 54 meter motor yacht SEQUEL P has announced reduced winter rates in the Caribbean.

To encourage last-minute holiday bookings, Proteksan yacht SEQUEL P has dropped her Christmas and New Year's Eve premium rates from $378,000 per week to $350,000 per week - a savings of 8%.

For non-holiday periods, charterers can enjoy a Virgin Islands yacht charter for $322,000 per week and pocket savings of $28,000 off the regular rate of $350,000 per week.

Launched in Turkey in June, 2009, mega yacht SEQUEL P was designed by London-based H2 designers, and built by Proteksan Turquoise Yachts Inc specifically for use in the luxury yacht charter industry.

The newest yacht to hit the Caribbean (and the mediterranean in summer), the vessel offers a fascinating interior with areas furnished in sycamore and macore woods, and a generous exterior deck space. 

Up to 12 guests are accommodated in 6 staterooms:  a master suite on the main deck, and 2 double, 2 twin (each with Pullman) and 1 convertible VIP cabin on the lower deck.  The VIP cabin can also be converted into a massage studio or office.
 

Special features include zero speed stabilizers, which reduce motion when the yacht is at anchor, amazing deck spaces, and well-planned entertainment areas.  For active guests, there is a full gymnasium, and a large inventory of aqua toys. To ease sore muscles after a day of activity there is a large ondeck Jacuzzi tub, as well as the services on a licensed masseuse.

Similar yachts available this winter in the Caribbean include the 2011 53-meter motor yacht SPIRIT,  the 2009 50-meter motor yacht WHEELS, and the 2010 55-meter HARBOUR ISLAND.

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To book a holiday escape in the Caribbean or Bahamas, contact the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

It's been said a Caribbean yacht charter vacation is a great way to kick the blues.  Now, a popular sailing charter yacht wants to help you sing the blues!

Book sail yacht MAKAYABELLA during the Bequia Mount Gay Music Festival (January 26th – 29th, 2012) and the yacht's crew, John and Sue, will provide the guests with complimentary tickets to both the Friday and Saturday night performances.

Outstanding performances by local, regional and international artists has made this music festival one of the “must see” fixtures on the Caribbean season’s calendar.  The event kicks off with Dana Gillespie and her London Blues Band’s performance on Friday night and lasts for four days.  The festival has received rave reviews since its inception and precedes the 14-day Mustique Blues Festival.

The main venue and stage is located at De Reef, right on the beach in Lower Bay, Bequia, with the big performances on Friday and Saturday night - followed by lazy Sunday afternoon “limin’” music to close out the weekend.

The cozy sailboat MAKAYABELLA can accommodate 6 guests in 4 cabins.  The Master cabin has a double bed, shower and toilet. 2 Guest cabins have a twin bed, shower and toilet.  A Guest cabin has a double bed, shower and toilet. All cabins are ensuite.  On warm evenings, the yacht offers air conditioning in the saloon.



John and Sue have taken guests to this event for the last few years and they report everyone has a great time. "We feel it’s a great event," says John, "and very much worth promoting as a focal point of a charter here in the Grenadines."

If you're a music lover and looking for a unique charter experience, plan a yachting holiday onboard sail yacht MAKAYABELLA around the festival's dates, and John and Sue will throw in the tickets - free of charge.

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To book a special event yachting vacation, contact the SailAway destination team 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.

Only weeks after the European Union Court of Justice declared the Spanish Boat Tax an “unlawful practice,” Spanish authorities made it clear they plan to ignore the guidance laid down by the EU.

At a recent conference in Palma, representatives from the Balearic region’s nautical industry discussed the contentious Spanish boat tax issue, and its effect on Mediterranean yacht charter vessels engaged in business in Spanish waters.  The tax also effects non-commercial pleasure boats as well. 

The conference was intended to look for ways to boost nautical sector revenues in the Balearic islands.  The primary point of discussion was the scrapping of the Matriculation (ISDMT) Tax which is judged to deprive ports in Mallorca and Ibiza of €10 million per weekend during high season.

To the dismay of the attendees, Javier Campillo, Chief Tax Inspector for the Balearics, said the Spanish boat tax is here to stay. Spain’s Matriculation Tax will continue to apply to all Spanish-registered yachts, including those on the Canary Islands Register (REBECA).

"This is unfortunate news for the luxury yacht charter market, and the superyacht owners eager to engage in commerce in Spanish waters," states Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.  Sheeder points out a legal challenge of  the Spanish position would be difficult.  "Even though the Spanish boat tax breaks the principle of freedom to provide services in the European Union, it is not actually illegal. The EU can declare the tax to be against principles and therefore unlawful, but it lacks the authority to declare the tax illegal."

The Spanish boat tax first drew widespread condemnation in May when the boating community in Spain and the Balearic Islands staged a daily protest of the tax during the Palma Boat Show.  Over the nine-day show, at noon of each day, yacht owners blasted their horns in the Bay of Palma to raise awareness of their lobbying.

Until further notice, the Spanish tax authority will continue to charge a Matriculation Tax of 12 per cent of the value of all Spanish-registered vessels.

For now, the stand-off between the Spanish government, the Balearic authorities, and the European judiciary will continue.

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Come explore the islands of  Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera - the archipelago known as the Balearic Islands.  Contact the SailAway Yacht Charter destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

Rick Hendrick, owner of NASCAR team Hendrick Motorsports and the 164' Trinity motor yacht WHEELS, escaped with only a broken rib and broken clavicle (collarbone) when his small plane lost its brakes and crash landed at Key West International Airport late Monday.  Hendrick's wife, Linda, suffered minor cuts and bruises.

The plane is registered to Jimmie Johnson Racing Inc. of Charlotte, N.C., and co-owned by Hendrick Motorsports and Johnson, the five-time defending NASCAR Sprint Cup champion

The Hendricks were the only two passengers on the Gulfstream 150 jet.  Co-pilots, James Klepper and Jay Luckwaldt, also escaped without serious injuries in the Monday night crash. All four were taken to Lower Keys Medical Center shortly after the 7:45 p.m. incident, where they were evaluated, treated, and released. All flew home to North Carolina on Tuesday morning.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Klepper announced he had “no brakes,” and when he attempted to brake, he also had no pressure. The jet skidded off the 4,800-foot runway and came to rest about three feet from an airport perimeter fence.

Hendrick, the patriarch of  one of NASCAR's most successful race teams, is also well known in the megayacht community.  His Trinity yacht charter vessel, motor yacht WHEELS is available for hire in the Florida Keys and throughout the Bahamas.  The 164'  (50 meter) yacht offers accommodation for up to ten guests in six suites comprising one owner cabin, two VIP cabins, two double cabins, and one twin cabin. 

Recently, the yacht was in the boating news when Hendricks added a 24-meter (80') superyacht sportfish tender to the megayacht's already impressive inventory of watertoys.

After Monday's crash, the runway was closed for about an hour but reopened when authorities determined the wreckage did not impact the landing area. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident.

“It was a real big scare, very frightening to hear," Hendrick Motorsports driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. told reporters in Las Vegas while attending an automotive trade show. "I’m very glad that he and everybody appears to be okay.”

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For a selection of  luxury yachts available for hire in the Bahamas visit SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants Bahamas at http://www.1800sailaway.com/bahamas.html

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 .

The owner of a 142 foot megayacht and America's premier yacht charter company have teamed up to bring you a sizzling Caribbean yacht charter winter special.

Motoryacht LADY J, in cooperation with SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants, are offering a $10,000 instant rebate to the next three charter customers to confirm a 7-night or longer booking in the Caribbean in January, February or March, 2012.

In addition, SailAway will pay for a "Homecoming Picnic" for you and your family and friends upon your return home after your luxury yacht charter vacation (up to $1000 in food and drinks).

"We understand the importance of finding the best values when planning a vacation," says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.  "The manager of motoryacht LADY J approached us with a courtesy discount of $5,000 for our customers.  We decided to match that offer with an additional $5,000 instant rebate."

"We also wanted the great feelings that come with a yachting vacation to last a little longer.  Our marketing department came up with the idea of a picnic for family-and-friends when the clients return home."
 
"It's a great way to share photos and stories about a wonderful vacation with your neighbors and friends."

Motoryacht LADY J is a 142’ luxury yacht.  She is currently in the shipyard undergoing improvements and will arrive in Antigua by December 1st.   The yacht features accommodations for 10 to 12 guests in 5 staterooms and operates under the capable leadership of Captain Sandra Yawn. 

The full beam Master Stateroom is located forward on deck, with private office, sofa and vanity. En-suite facilities include Jacuzzi tub for her, and separate stall shower for him, with two sinks and private bathroom.

Guests may choose from several options for each meal, whether seeking al fresco or air-conditioned dining between the aft deck, bridge deck, and formal dining salon.

The magnificent sun deck boasts Jacuzzi with oversized sun pads, 2 elliptical trainers, full wet bar and TV.

Activities abound with a 25’ towed Pursuit tender, 2 waverunners, snorkeling gear, 2 elliptical trainers, kayaks, paddle boards, fishing gear, and Wii and Xbox 360 game consoles.

Motor yacht LADY J is priced at $120,000 per week, plus running expenses, and is currently available for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  The instant rebate of $10,000 shall be deducted from the charter rate and a $1000 gift voucher for the Homecoming Picnic will be mailed to customers upon their return home.

Current Bookings:
● Nov 23-28: Nassau, Bahamas
● Dec 4-10: Antigua, Caribbean
● Available for Christmas and New years (10-night minimum)
● Jan 22-27: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
● Feb 23-Mar 1: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
● Mar 23-Apr 1: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
● June 3-10: Nassau, Bahamas
● June 21-28: Maine, East Coast USA

Lady J is also available to charter in New England, summer 2012.

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For additional information on this special offer, please contact the SailAway yacht charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html or 305-253-7245.

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.

Let's face it - we live in a society obsessed with all things new.  Our hottest celebrities are the young greenhorns with the fresh faces, and shows like the X-Factor scour the land for the next new singing sensation.  Trendy restaurants and clubs come and go, sometimes in a matter of weeks, and who would rent a car from Hertz or Avis built more than 1 year ago?

The same pressure to look fresh and new consumes the luxury sailing charter market, but with one twist - older yachts can undergo wildly-expensive makeovers and resurface looking brand new!

How do they get away with it?   The simple answer is: classic, repetitive design.

Except for a few curved windows here and there, the basic styling of a sailing yacht never changes.  Driven by the laws of physics and what shape is best to propel a wind-powered sail boat through the water, the basic, classic shape of sailing yachts has changed little over the years. 

Can you tell which of these yachts is only one year old and which is nearly 20? 

 

The yacht on the right, sail yacht SEA QUELL was launched in 1992.

With continual maintenance and owners willing to spend thousands of dollars for modern interior upgrades, yachts like SEA QUELL can remain active and competitive in the rental market with newer-model Caribbean yacht charter vessels.

This summer (2011) SEA QUELL underwent a major makeover, called a "refit" in yachting terms. It was her second major refit in three years!

Here's a list of the upgrades completed this summer onboard SEA QUELL:

●  New Teak Decks
●  New Navigational Equipment
●  New Winches  
●  New Sails
●  New Interior upholstery and soft furnishings


New custom-built Jacuzzi hot tub ondeck
New Satellite radio and internet/communications equipment

●  Oh...one more makeover item - a New Crew!!! 


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Sea Quell joins a growing list of sailboats available this winter and spring in the Caribbean including:

  59' sail yacht ON LIBERTY (€11,000 per week, plus expenses)

   67'  sail yacht MORE MAGIC ($18,000 per week, plus expenses)

  75'  sail catamaran LADY ALLIAURA ($45,000 per week, all inclusive)

To plan your own luxury yacht charter vacation, contact the professionals at SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html . We offer the best price guarantee!

New safety rules for the construction of superyacht vessels could prove a boon for the mega yacht charter marketplace, especially for charter parties of more than 12 passengers.

Bureau Veritas, the international classification society, is launching an updated set of classification rules for yachts.  The rules cover design, material and equipment certification and construction surveillance at the shipyard.  A major addition to the new rules is a set of standards applicable to very large luxury yacht charter vessels with over 12 passengers.

These new standards will bridge the gap between international conventions applying to passenger ships and yacht industry standards.

Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters believes the new regulations are long overdue.  "We've been fighting for new standards for a long time. The regulatory environment for luxury yacht charter vessels carrying more than twelve passengers has been confusing for years. Costly conventions developed for passenger vessels like cruise ships carrying hundreds of passengers were forced upon superyachts clearly built for large families and corporate charters."

According to Sheeder, the cost of compliance to non-conforming standards means charter yachts with the capacity to carry more than 12 passengers have been forced to only accept charters for 12 or fewer passengers. "Owners of yachts with accommodations for 13 or more guests were hesitant to spend the large sums of money needed to bring their yachts into compliance with cruiseship-level standards."  

"The result," says Sheeder, "is that only a handful of mega yacht charter vessels can legally accommodate more than 12 guests. "     

The new Bureau Veritas rules develop a set of requirements, close to the international conventions but customized to the yacht industry standards.  It is believed the new regulations will result in new charter yachts built to carry between twelve and thirty six passengers.

"The demand is there," says Sheeder.  "Large, extended families end up renting island villas or staying in resorts when no suitable yachts are available.  Hopefully, the new regulations will result in more available yachts for parties of thirteen or more."   

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Some of the yachts currently available for large families include the 36-passenger motor yacht CHRISTINA O, the 40-passenger LAUREN L, the 36-passenger motor yacht MOONLIGHT II, and the 30-passenger motor yacht RM ELEGANT.   For further information, contact Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters at jsheeder@1800sailaway.com

It's hard to believe the 2012 London Olympic Games are less than one year from now.  As the games draws closer, it's expected more than a dozen luxury mega yacht charter vessels will be available for hire along the fabled Thames river.

One of the first yachts to commit to the London games is the 75 meter motor yacht LEANDER. The massive superyacht will be available from the evening of the 27th July.

Yacht Leander features accommodations for twelve guests in a choice of ten luxurious staterooms, including two master suites on the main deck. In addition, up to four staff members (nannies, bodyguards, etc.) can also be accommodated in certain circumstances. White glove service is provided by the yacht's highly-trained crew of 25, headed by Captain Julian Cope.

In addition to a choice of roomy saloons and spacious deck areas, an assortment of amenities are available including a fully-equipped gym and swimming pool with counter current and Jacuzzi-style jets. Launched in 2003, yacht Leander is constantly maintained to the highest standards and her equipment is regularly updated.

Leander's weekly rate during the London Olympics will be € 455,000 plus all expenses.

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For a list of available yachts for hire during the Olympic games, contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Since her coming-out party at the Cannes Film Festival 2011, motor yacht SnowbirD has continued to turn heads along the Côte d'Azur.  Now, the spectacular 39 meter luxury ocean-going superyacht is heading across the pond to the warm waters of the Caribbean.  Offering fabulous accommodation for up to 10 guests, motor yacht SnowbirD will be the ideal St Barts yacht charter vessel for the winter and spring.

Built in Holland, Hakvoort motor yacht SnowbirD features an interior both traditional and modern in style. The full-beam owner’s suite includes a study, plus a stateroom with a king-size bed and a large walk-in closet.  There are four guest cabins on the lower deck, two double VIP staterooms, and two twin-bed guest rooms. All feature ensuite bathrooms.

The entertainment areas onboard the yacht are equally impressive, and boasts an open plan main lounge/dining area arrangement. The bridge deck sky lounge opens onto a charming aft area with built-in seating and a teak dining table.

The sun deck features plenty of open area for sunbathing as well as two large sofas and teak tables. A large Jacuzzi whirlpool tub accommodates up to six people, with an adjacent granite-topped wet bar.

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Similar yachts avaialble this winter in the Caribbean include Feadship motor yacht GO, Moonen motor yacht NORTHLANDER, and Sunseeker motor yacht BLACK and WHITE.  To book a winter escape of your own, contact the SailAway destination professionals at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Joining a growing list of luxury yacht charter vessels migrating to the Orient for the winter season, the 42 meter performance sailing catamaran DOUCE FRANCE will be available is Southeast Asia this winter.  Destinations will include Malaysia, Myanmar, the Andaman Islands, and most notably Phuket Island in Thailand - the "pit stop" on this week's installment of the reality TV show, The Amazing Race.

Viewers of this week's installment (episode 4) of the hit CBS

After struggling on the rock climb, the teams raced by boat back to a tiny fishing village on Phuket.  The frequent cutaway shots showing the nearby beaches were breathtaking. 

Click on the photo of the snowboarders to watch the full video (episode 4):   

Swaying palms, coral reefs, stunning rock pinnacles, shimmering emerald-colored seas, and charming island villages - these are just some of the attractions that await luxury yacht charter guests onboard sail yacht DOUCE FRANCE.  Captain Pascal and his professional crew have cruised these waters for many seasons and look forward to welcoming guests onboard to explore these stunning locations. 

The superyacht features accommodations for 12 guests in 6 identical cabins.  All are convertible and can display either a queen bed or two twin beds.   For active travelers, there is a great selection of aquasport toys including eight sets of SCUBA diving equipment. 

A list of other toys features:

21' Zeppelin semi-rigid tender
2 Laser Sailing Dinghies
Windsurfers
4 Sea Kayaks
Waterskis (adult, slalom, and skis for children & for acrobatics)
Wakeboard
Surfboard
Scurfboard
2 Donuts (single and double)
1 Flying Manta
Snorkeling equipment
Fishing equipment
BBQ

Rates begin at 90,000 EUROS per week plus all expenses.

Come and participate in your own amazing race onboard Douce France!

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For more information contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

When the British Antarctic survey ship, RSS Ernest Shackleton was drydocked recently in Denmark, the shipyard engineers and paint specialists there to check the condition of the hull paint were stunned. The ship had spent two seasons battering her way through ice up to 2.5 meters thick - ice packed with a high content of abrasive gravel and volcanic lava. To the amazement of the inspection team, the hull coating was virtually intact and undamaged.

This was in strong contrast to the Shackleton's previous drydocking, when almost the entire hull, bearing a conventional ice-going underwater hull coating, was practically stripped to bare, unprotected steel.

The difference lay in the fact that when the Shackleton left drydock in 2009, the hull was newly coated with Ecospeed, a glass flake vinyl ester resin underwater hull coating proven to have extraordinary anti-corrosion strength and flexibility.

The success of the new underwater hull coating on the Shackleton heralds a breakthrough in icebreaker protection.  Some observers foresee this as an opportunity for the expansion of Arctic luxury yacht charter. 

Leading the way for cold-water expedition yacht charters is motor yacht BIG FISH.  This 45-meter explorer was built in 2010 for an owner who wanted a yacht that could to travel to remote parts of the world, but which also had a contemporary, open style with floor-to-ceiling windows. Designed by Greg Marshall and built at the McMullen & Wing yard in Auckland, Big Fish visited Antarctica as part of her virgin circumnavigation of the globe.

Interest in expedition yacht charters has increased in recent years, according to industry maven Jana Sheeder of SailAway Yacht Charters.. "We see more expedition-style yachts enter the market each season," says Sheeder.  "Exploration vessels like motor yacht BIG FISH are opening the door to a new world of charter possibilities.  The new Ecospeed hull coating technology could mean even more yachts will be able to safely visit remote cruising grounds in both the Arctic and Antarctic. I can't think of a better way to learn about nature and our endangered wildlife."

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Motor yacht BIG FISH will participate in the upcoming 2011 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show.  To tour this yacht and other luxury yacht charter vessels during the show, contact the SailAway charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details.

FREE LIMO (details below)!

Back in September, we reported on the great values being offered for a Virgin Islands yacht charter during the Thanksgiving holidays.

Then, motor yacht SERENITY jumped on the band wagon and offered a fall special for a Thanksgiving charter in the Bahamas.

Not to be left at the dock, Trinity yacht charter motor yacht MI SUENO wants everyone to know she is also available for a Thanksgiving cruise, November 24 - 28, 2011.  Bookings will be accepted for either the Bahamas or the Caribbean.

The 190' (57.92 meter) motor yacht Mi Sueno was launched in 2010 by US-based Trinity Yachts.  The vessel accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms. 

Onboard amenities and special features include a large open air Jacuzzi on the sun deck,  wheelchair accessible elevator, gym/massage room, and WiFi and Kaleidescape central movie/music service throughout the yacht.

Her weekly rate of  280,000 EUROS (plus running expenses) will be pro-rated for a long Thanksgiving weekend cruise. 

As an incentive to book yacht Mi Sueno for Thanksgiving, SailAway is offering roundtrip limousine service to/from your home to your nearest major airport. 

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Come celebrate the holidays onboard a private yacht and leave the driving to us!  Contact the SailAway special event planners at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details.