Luxury Yacht Charter

The largest private luxury yacht built in Britain has been delivered to the UK's wealthiest woman, and her maiden voyage to the Caribbean is now underway.

On Friday, March 2, the 90 meter motor yacht VAVA II left the Devonport shipyard in Plymouth.  The vast 314 foot superyacht - with a reported price tag of £100 million - was commissioned for former Miss UK Kirsty Bertarelli, 40, by her billionaire husband Ernesto Bertarelli, 46.

The Swiss pharmaceutical tycoon - reputedly worth £6.8 billion, making him the 81st richest man in the world and the fifth richest in the UK - had megayacht VAVA II built by Plymouth-based Pendennis Plus (formerly Devonport Yachts).

The Caribbean yacht charter vessel features a fold-down beach club and a pool which can be varied in depth to cater for guest preferences.

Superyacht VAVA II was designed by Redman Whitely Dixon, with interior styling by Remi Tessier. The yacht is built to SOLAS-36 passenger ship standards and will set a new standard in the charter market for 2012 and beyond.

Kirsty Bertarelli (formerly Kirsty Roper) won Miss UK in 1988 when she was 17. She now lives in Switzerland.

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View the world's largest yachts available for hire at http://www.1800sailaway.com/brochure/largest-yachts

We've all heard the saying, "Up the creek without a paddle," but what about without a rudder?

A British company is hoping their invention will catch on with boaters and the yachting community -- a rudderless saucer-like watertoy called a "Circraft."    

Round, revolutionary, and radical, the aquatic flying saucer is one part James Bond boat and one part personal watercraft, like a waverunner or jetski.

Aside from its appearance, what makes this new watertoy truly unique is the lack of a rudder for steering.  Directional control comes from the operator leaning to one side or the other - lean left go left, lean right and the Circraft will do the same. 

Want to stop? Simply flip the throttle to neutral and the saucer will glide to a halt (and like a waverunner or jetski, a safety cut-out cord connects the outboard to driver for safety in the event of any mishap).

Powered by a small outboard engine, the Circraft can hit maximum speeds of 40 mph and can carry one to two riders.

Will we see charter vessels like Benetti motor yacht DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER or the highly-popular James Bond motor yacht CASINO ROYALE replace their conventional waverunners with the Circraft?  There are compelling reasons charter vessels may wish to add these water-saucers to their aquasports inventory.  Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters explains:

"Personal watercraft are restricted from use in many destinations;  for example, passengers on a Virgin Islands Yacht Charter are often frustrated to learn the waverunners on their rented yacht may not be used in the British Virgin Islands.  The Circraft is rated as a Category C vessel, similar to a motorized tender, and doesn't carry the same restrictions that hinder the use of waverunners and jetskis by charter guests."

Priced from £5,000 (about $7900) plus tax for the boat with 20hp outboard and customized trailer, they are comparable, if not cheaper, in price to most waverunners.

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Live the James Bond 007 lifestyle of adventure and exploration, at least for a week, on a private yacht for hire.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to reserve your luxury yacht charter today. 

It seems renting a luxury yacht charter vessel for the upcoming London Olympic Games is the easy part.  Securing a place to dock your megayacht will be the real challenge.

Event organizers are expecting a scramble for berths along the Thames river and its series of meandering canals.  Some of London's waterways pass within 100 meters of the Olympic stadium at Stratford, and last minute space is unlikely to be available. 

Some vessels like the 99 meter legendary Mediterranean yacht charter motor yacht CHRISTINA O have already arrived in London to stake out a berth, nearly five months in advance of the Games.

One vessel, the 175 meter luxury cruise liner MS Deutschland berthed in South Quay as part of a 36 hour warm-up visit last July.  With the trial run a success, MS Deutschland now has a confirmed berth for the Games and will provide accommodations for the German Olympic Committee.

Back in May, 2011, we reported on berths being offered at the Royal Docks, adjacent to the ExCel Centre (the venue for Boxing, Wrestling, Fencing, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis).  As of March 1, local authorities report less than half of the 50 premium superyacht berths remain available.
  
"One thing is certain." says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters. "For the month of August, 2012, London will be the luxury mega yacht charter capital of the world."

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The 2012 London Olympic Games take place from July 27 through August 12.  For a list of available yachts and up-to-date dockage information, contact SailAway special events coordinators at http://www.1800sailaway.com/special_events.php.

The Greek Coast Guard has reported motor yacht YOGI, a 62 meter Mediterranean yacht charter vessel has sunk off the coast of Greece this past Friday morning.  No one was injured as all crew were rescued.

Built less than a year ago in Turkey by Proteksan Turquoise, motor yacht YOGI was reported to be in trouble Friday morning in the area between the islands of Skyros and Psara, 19 nautical miles off the coast.
 

.................the crew onboard motoryacht YOGI as they await rescue by the Greek Coast Guard

A, "mechanical failure" has been blamed for the incident which occurred in strong seas and Force 8 winds. There were no reports of injuries as all 8 French crewmembers were rescued by three Greek Coast Guard helicopters, supported by a frigate from the Hellenic Navy.  The crew was transferred to Skyros Health Center as a precautionary measure.

Motoryacht YOGI had just completed warranty work in Turkey, and was en route to her berth in the south of France. Capt. Jean Louis Carrel told Greek authorities that although the weather was rough, he believed the sinking was due to a mechanical failure with the exhaust system.

On Saturday, Mehmet Karabeyoglu, head of Proteksan Turquoise, the yacht’s builder, commented: “What I find surprising is that [from] the first mayday call to the boat sinking was nearly seven hours.  They had power as you can see lights on [in the photos and video shot by the Hellenic rescue team].”

Ask whether any warranty work was done on the engines or exhaust systems,  Karabeyoglu said,  "She was just repainted, but we did no work in the engine room as it was perfect. No mechanical work other than routine service of the Cat engines. Perhaps they took bad fuel when they refueled in Istanbul.”

Proteksan Turquoise yacht YOGI was built in 2011 to ABS +A1, +AMS standards and was classed as Commercial Yachting Service (E). Her stunning profile and interior was designed by Jean Guy Verges, who has designed six other builds by the Turkish-based yard. This was the second of three superyacht vessels delivered by Proteksan in 2011.

Other yachts offered for charter by this builder are motor yacht BARAKA, motor yacht SIRIUS (ex LEO FUN), and motoryacht SEQUEL P.

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Editor's note: SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants sources learned today that a purchase offer had been made just days before the incident and had been expected to be presented to the owner...

While noise-canceling headphones have been around for years, one company hopes to convert entire rooms on superyacht vessels into quieter environments.

The Active Noise Canceling system by Videoworks relies on stand alone speakers that will be built into the walls of the yacht.

The system will work by detecting the frequency of noises coming from a cabin and then emitting a similar noise from the opposite side of the spectrum of frequency.  The clashing of the opposing sounds results in the cancellation of the audible portion of the sound wave.

While in most cases the noise is not completely eliminated, it does drop it to a significantly lower level, often sounding like a faint hiss.

The technology seems to work best when the noise is consistent and at a constant frequency - like the drone of the engines on a yacht charter vessel as it chugs from St Barts to St Thomas. 

The noise-canceling gadget relies on woofer speakers that measure 22.8 x 11.8 x 4 inches and can be hidden under leather or other soft materials.  They operate in the frequency range of 25 to 200 Hz and will detect any changes in frequency caused by the yacht's engines or generators.  Concert-level audio quality is assured via an advanced 32-bit analog/digital signal processor and a dedicated digital power amplifier.

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Take advantage of deep discounts on Spring Break charters in the Caribbean. Contact the SailAway yacht charter destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for more information.

Here's an opportunity to stretch a week-long vacation into a 10 night escape without paying one extra penny.

The 137'  Palmer Johnson motor yacht SYRENKA is offering 10 days for the price of 7, from now through the end of April, 2012 in the Caribbean.

The weekly rate is $85,000 plus running expenses.

Launched as motor yacht LADY JENN in 1984, the yacht's new owner just completed a major refit and the four-deck, 137-foot Palmer Johnson, now named motor yacht SYRENKA looks better than new.

This extremely popular luxury yacht charter vessel is now appointed with a refreshingly comfortable new interior featuring supple leathers and Ralph Lauren soft furnishings in shades of blue, white, ivory, and brown. Other enhancements include extra-wide passageways, an elevator, and wheelchair accessibility on three decks. A wheelchair is also available onboard.

On the main deck, an inviting conversation area leads forward to the dining salon with seating for ten guests at an oval table. One deck up, the spacious sky lounge serves as the yacht’s central gathering spot. The 50” flat panel TV in the lounge is surrounded by a large, circular settee with seating for 10, with additional seating in the aft ringed by oversized viewing windows.  Sliding glass doors open to the guest deck with shaded settees and another large table for al fresco dining.

On top level serves as the sun deck, and comprises two large areas, both of which can be shaded by a rollout awning.  One area is fitted with a semicircular settee and table - perfect for cocktails or breakfast.  The second seating area offers four lounge chairs, two large wicker chairs, a wet bar, and grill.

The full-beam master suite, located on the main deck, is tastefully appointed in a medley of fine woods and natural fabrics and includes an oversized ensuite bathroom. Adjacent to the master suite is a smaller cabin with a small double bed. Four additional ensuite staterooms are located on the lower deck: a VIP suite with queen bed, two additional queen staterooms, and one twin-bedded stateroom.

Onboard recreational equipment includes a 17’ Novurania tender for transporting guests, and a golf cart for shoreside explorations.

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Take advantage of this or many other special offers this winter and spring in the Caribbean.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for information on yacht charters in the Caribbean.

An award-winning chef and his catamaran have introduced a special, reduced rate for early spring in the Caribbean.

The spectacular luxury sailboat catamaran WORLD’S END has slashed her price, from $36500/wk to $24000/wk, plus all expenses.  The special applies to charters commencing in either February or March, 2012.

At 20 meters, the Fountaine Pajot Galathea 65 model catamaran WORLD’S END is the largest cruising vessel ever built by this manufacturer.   She marks a new flagship for sail boat charters in the Caribbean.    

Readers may recall our December 17 profile of chef Renee Kappetein as he 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.

An outstanding creation from architects Berret Racoupeau and Coste Design, the Fountaine Pajot catamaran sail boat WORLD’S END has been carefully designed with all of the safety, performance, and comfort elements to satisfy the most discerning guests.  Safe and exhilarating sailing performance is generated from its mastered displacement, powerful sail plan and expanded waterline length.

The generous cockpit of the Galathea 65 is fully protected from the elements and features a deck lounge and sun-bridge for relaxing. The extraordinarily spacious interior features a panoramic saloon, dining room and gourmet galley.

The Master Cabin sets new standards in decadence and style with a study area, lounge and large bathroom with dual vanity sinks. Each guest cabin features an ensuite bathroom, king size beds, large portholes and a style that rivals the world’s top luxury hotels.

The yacht also includes an office/library, dressing rooms and laundry.

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Plan a family escape to the Caribbean this spring.  Contact the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for a list of special offers!

The new Louis Vitton spring 2012 collection urges customers to, "Embrace the spirit of travel," and SailAway Yacht Charters is here to help you embark on that journey - in style.

Now through April 30, book a 7-night Mediterranean yacht charter onboard the 27 meter motor yacht COCA VI and receive a free Louis Vuitton Travel Bag*  - courtesy of COCA VI and SailAway. 

The name Louis Vuitton is synonymous with style, craftsmanship, and luxury travel.  Arno Leopard motor yacht COCA VI exemplifies those same high standards. 

Launched in 2000 and refit in 2008, Motoryacht COCA VI is in spotless condition.  She has to be seen to be believed. She offers accommodations for six guests in three staterooms, a Jacuzzi tub on the sun deck, and a spacious master suite. 

Based in Antibes, France, along the famous Côte d'Azur, her weekly rate is € 35,000.00 plus all running expenses. 

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*Certain restrictions may apply.  For reservations and full promotional yacht charter, contact SailAway at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

For the remainder of the winter Caribbean yacht charter season, two megayachts have decided to forego regular a la carte charter pricing to offer all-inclusive rates.

Motor yacht GLAZE and sail yacht BLISS have each set a flat weekly rate for charters taking place in the warm waters of the Caribbean from now until the end of April, 2012. 

Typically, megayachts charge a base rate for the actual rental of the yacht, and then charge extra for all running expenses (items such as food, fuel, dockage, bar, etc.).  

The all-inclusive rates include three meals per day, normal bar and table wines, generator fuel, main engine fuel for an average of 3 hours of cruising per day, ship’s laundry, and airport transit fees and dockage fees for the first and last nights.

Only special requests, such as vintage wines, champagnes, use of cellular phones, etc. will result in extra charges.

Launched in 2007, Trinity yacht GLAZE (ex motor yacht LADY MICHELLE) is 161 feet long and offers accommodations for 10 to 12 guests.  Features include a panoramic sky lounge, vast sundeck with an enormous sun pad, Jacuzzi tub on deck, and a wet-bar and grill for dining al fresco.

At 121 feet, sail yacht BLISS features the comforts of a motoryacht and the spirit of a wind-powered sailboat.  Built in 2009, this sailing megayacht offers flexible and luxurious accommodation in three ensuite cabins, two of which can be configured as doubles or twins. Four additional Pullman berths allow her to accommodate up to 10 guests in total, making her a perfect choice for families.

Motoryacht GLAZE will offer an all-inclusive rate of $210,000 per week. while sailing yacht BLISS will be priced at $98,000 per week.

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For yacht charter availability and further details, contact the SailAway charter specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html, and for more great yacht charter specials, visit: http://www.1800sailaway.com/brochure/listings/yacht-specials

Finding convenient flights can be a real challenge when planning a Caribbean yacht charter.  Fortunately, one megayacht owner had decided to do something about it.

For any 10-night or longer charter completed before April 15, 2012, the 161’ Trinity motor yacht ANJILIS will provide complimentary roundtrip flights on a mid-size Hawker jet, to either the Caribbean or the Bahamas, from any airport of your choice along the U.S east coast.

Getting to the islands has never been any easier...

Launched in 2009, Motor yacht ANJILIS features a sophisticated, contemporary take on Art Deco-inspired architectural elements. The interior of the yacht has been fabricated in exotic woods, custom marquetry, and stone inlays.

The Trinity yacht charter vessel accommodates up to eleven guests in the most stylish ensuite staterooms, each outfitted with custom Italian linens and amenities. The full width main deck master stateroom, complete with a private study, is especially elegant with hand-tufted wool and silk carpets. State-of-the-art electronics and entertainment systems are featured throughout the yacht including Wi-Fi connections, Creston wireless touchscreen remote, and a Kaleidescape movie and music library system.

Other amenities for a perfect yachting holiday include spacious outdoor areas for al fresco or formal entertaining; aqua toys from kayaks to dive gear; and a unique sit-down bar in the main salon surrounding an electronic organ.

Outdoor entertainment areas include a bar and day head on the sun deck, as well as private outdoor dining for the entire charter party on aft upper deck, and outdoor dining and bar on aft main deck.  For those rare, chilly evenings, both the outdoor aft upper deck and aft main deck are heated with radiant ceiling panels.  On the more common warm, spring nights, the aft main deck can be cooled with external air-conditioning.

A Creston wireless audio/visual system and the computerized Kaleidescape music and movie servers are accessible through DVD players in all cabins and salons.  Satellite TV and iPOD docking stations are located throughout this superyacht, with surround sound and Blu-Ray disc players in the salons and Owner’s suite.  For children of all ages, a Karaoke and Sony Playstation 3 game console can be enjoyed in the Twin stateroom.

The numerous televisions onboard include:  Main salon: 71” TV & 7.1 surround sound, Skylounge: 60” TV & 7.1 surround sound, Sundeck: 32” TV, Aft Skylounge Deck: 42” TV, Aft Main deck: 42” TV in motorized drop down ceiling enclosure, Owners Stateroom: 42” TV & 7.1 Surround Sound & 32” TV in Lounge, Owners Baths: 20” TV each, Owners Office: 20” TV/ computer monitor, Guest staterooms (4) total: 32” TV in each.

Staying in touch with the home office is often important for corporate charter guests. Onboard communication systems include:  VSAT for broadband internet and VOIP (Seatel 4006); BGAN F55 for broadband internet and Satellite telephone and fax; wired and wireless networks throughout; cellular telephone (GSM networks); VHF radios with DSC; MF/HF radio with DSC; and Sat-C mobile earth station.

With accommodations for 10 to 11 guests, Trinity built yacht ANJILIS is available for hire at $235,000 per week, plus running expenses.

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Leave the cold weather behind and escape to the sunny Bahamas or Caribbean this spring.  Contact SailAway at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to plan your yacht vacation.

    
While a fire halted production at the shipyard of one of the most prolific builders of luxury catamarans, the company's President says it's business as usual just 5 days later.

After a fire in one of the production halls at the Sunreef Yachts shipyard in Poland on January 19, the catamaran manufacturer has already started rebuilding lost units. Some yachts under construction were destroyed, but the key moulds were saved and the shipyard has already begun adapting another production hall and moved the moulds to the new site.

Production was recommenced on January 23rd, and Francis Lapp, President of Sunreef Yachts, is, "...confident any delays in delivery due to the fire will not exceed 3 months."

Interest in crewed catamaran charters has increased dramatically in the past 5 years, thanks in part to the roominess and stability of these multi-hull vessels, as compared to their monohull counterparts. 

Sunreef Yachts is a leading designer and builder of luxury sailing and power catamarans in the 60 to 80 foot range. The company is known for its commitment to building yachts with luxurious accommodations, expansive living spaces, and  innovative designs.

Currently in service as Caribbean yacht charter vessels are Sunreef 62 sailing catamaran CATSY, Sunreef 70 power catamaran DAMRAK II, and Sunreef 70 sail catamaran SEAZEN II.

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Enjoy the comfort and space of a wide-body catamaran for your next Spring or Easter yacht rental.  Contact the SailAway catamaran specialists at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for list of available cats in the Caribbean.

If reports are to be believed, there's trouble in Paradis for Captain Jack Sparrow.     

People Magazine is reporting Hollywood A-list star Johnny Depp and his inamorata of 14 years, singer Vanessa Paradis are calling it quits.  According the the mag's cover story, Depp, 48, and the Chanel model, 39, have not appeared together at a public event for more than a year.

To the movie-going public, Depp is best known for his role as Captain Jack Sparrow, the central protagonist of the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise.  In the yachting industry, the actor is more familiar as the celebrity owner of a mega yacht charter vessel often seen cruising the pristine waters of the Bahamas.

This week's office water-cooler question: will the split lead Depp to rename his Bahama yacht charters motor yacht, VaJoLiRoJa?

The boat’s clever name comes from combining the first few letters of each family member’s name, partner Vanessa Paradis, Johnny, and their kids, Lily-Rose and Jack. 

If Johnny drops Vanessa, can we assume the multi-syllabic boat name will shed its current first syllable - leaving us with JoLiRoJa?  We kind of like that - if you say it fast enough it sounds like, "Jolly Roger"  — a perfect name for this 156 foot yacht of distinctive character.

But wait, what if its Vanessa forcing Johnny to, "Walk the plank?"  If she keeps custody of the yacht, the new name could be VaLiRoJa.   Has a nice sound to it - kinda rolls off the tongue...

Perhaps the best name for the yacht is RANSOM, as in Depp's reported $300 gross profit sharing booty from Disney's Pirates movie franchise.  

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View our favorite celebrity-owned mega yacht charter vessels, then contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to plan your own adventure at sea.

Hoping to counterbalance her carbon footprint, the owner of Trinity motor yacht BATON ROUGE has introduced a policy of carbon offsetting her fuel.

"This commitment to a greener future is also an acknowledgment of the high expectations of the yacht's charter clients,"  says luxury yacht charter maven, Jana Sheeder.  "The carbon offsets of the yacht’s engines with equivalent emissions reductions from verified green energy projects allows clients to integrate their own commitment to susatainability into their vacation experience."

Joss de Rohan Willner, captain of the 63-meter motor yacht BATON ROUGE wanted to address the yacht's environmental procedures.  "We decided to address her greenhouse gas emissions through a program of carbon offsetting. The approach needed to be practical, effective and flexible to suit the yacht’s busy schedule. We are pleased to be working with Yacht Carbon Offset to introduce this measure for 2012.” 

Yacht Carbon Offset’s Managing Director Mark Robinson said: “We are delighted that Baton Rouge has selected Yacht Carbon Offset to neutralize the carbon footprint from her engines. For such a prominent and active yacht, it is natural for environmental performance to be a priority. We thank the Owner’s team and all on board for their support”

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Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to learn how you can add a green component to your next yachting holiday.

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.

Part art studio, part South Beach nightclub, the avant-garde motoryacht SEA FORCE ONE has reduced her rental rates for the upcoming Mediterranean yacht charter season.

The 54 meter megayacht is now available at the reduced rates of €250,000 per week, plus expenses (was €280,000 per week, plus expenses) for low season, and €270,000 per week, plus expenses (was €300,000 per week, plus expenses) for high season (July and August) and for special event charters such as MIPIM and the Cannes Film Festival.
 
Admiral Mariotti motor yacht SEA FORCE ONE is a superyacht in the truest sense of the word.  Apart from her shiny black hull, her "wow factor" is over-the-top: fold-out sea terraces, extravagant décor, unique objets d′art, countless watertoys, and extensive entertainment equipment including a disco bar with DJ console and home cinema.

Sophisticated illumination throughout the interior creates a pleasant ambience on board, a la dance clubs like Pearl and Nikki Beach 

The yacht features accommodations for up to 10 guests in five themed cabins with king sized beds.
 
For special event charters, the yacht can host up to 80 guests for cocktails and up to 30 guests for formal, seated dinners.

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Looking for the perfect special event yacht in 2012?  Contact the SailAway destination pros at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for a complete list of available yachts and rates.

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.

Following a downgrade in credit ratings of nine euro zone countries, Reuters reports the euro is likely to post further losses in the coming week after it dropped on Friday the 13th to its lowest against the U.S. dollar in nearly 17 months. 

As the euro continues to slide opportunities to secure value prices on Caribbean yacht charter vacations will flourish, says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.

"Many of the yachts we represent for mega yacht charters are owned by European investors.  They set their rates in Euros - a currency that is being battered by the downgraded credit ratings of euro zone countries like France, Spain, and Italy," says Sheeder.

American travelers looking to secure rental vacations on European-owned superyachts are seeing their US dollar stretch further than in the past two charter seasons.  "US-based travelers were on the short end of the stick for quite some time," says Sheeder.  "As their dollars continue to strengthen they can upgrade to larger yachts without paying more money. The foreign currency pendulum is definitely swinging in their direction."

The growing inventory of luxury vessels for hire, coupled with low demand due to the global recession is further putting pressure on charter rates.  "The shrinking euro plus excess inventory and low demand is creating tremendous value for United States residents looking to charter in the Caribbean this winter and even in the Mediterranean this summer," explains Sheeder.

The 70-meter motor yacht NUMPTIA, for example, recently announced a euro rate reduction, combined with extra free charter days for the remainder of the Caribbean season.  

Sheeder and her advisors believe the tumble is not over.  "The breakdown in talks between Greece and its creditor banks means Greece is on the verge of collapse. This could continue the downtrend in the euro," states Sheeder. 

Some currency strategists see the euro possibly hitting $1.25 by the end of next week, with a target of between $1.21-$1.22.   The euro plunged to a low of $1.26240, its weakest level since late August 2010, on the EBS trading platform. On Friday the 13th, it last traded at $1.26830, down 1.1 percent on the day. The euro, down slightly on the week, posted its third straight weekly loss, based on EBS data.

"On the bright side," says Sheeder, the tumbling euro will provide a significant incentive for  Americans to book European-owned yachts at a deeply-discounted price for many months to come."

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REVIEW LUXURY YACHT CHARTER SPECIALS AND INCENTIVES at http://www.1800sailaway.com/brochure/listings/yacht-specials.

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.