NEWS

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.

===========================

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

At the recent ShowBoats Design Awards gala, the winner of the annual Young Designer of the Year Award was announced in front of an international audience of yacht owners and leading luxury yacht charter designers.

Michael Givens was declared the 2011 winner, taking home €5,000 in prize money, and topping a competition that drew 30 entries from 20 countries.

Additionally, the winner and the top five finalists are presented with a host of unique opportunities aimed at advancing their design careers, including complimentary access to the two-day Superyacht Design Symposium and an all-expenses paid trip to see the design and construction of Lürssen yacht charter vessels under construction at the builders shipyards in Bremen and Rendsburg, Germany.

The competition hosted by ShowBoats Media, is a worldwide initiative to uncover the yachting industry’s up-and-coming creative talents.

Contestants submitted design portfolios and were judged by an elite panel of internationally known yacht designers including Andrew Winch, Dickie Bannenberg & Rob Humphreys.

"Being called on stage to accept the Young Designer of the Year Award was the most exciting moment of my life," beamed Givens.  "It is truly astonishing to be starting out in this industry and have had the opportunity to attend such a prestigious event. The award, along with the entire experience, will be cherished."
    
============

Charter an award winning yacht like sail yacht TWIZZLE, or motor yacht EXUMA.  Contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html  to charter your own private luxury yacht today. 

How do you top yourself if you're the creator of a multi award-winning superyacht? Easy - build the same yacht again - only bigger and better.

Following in the footsteps of the acclaimed 45 meter Aquos Yachts motor yacht BIG FISH, the 50 meter motor yacht STAR FISH is currently under construction at McMullen & Wing. 

Projected to launch in April of 2012, Aquos motor yacht STAR FISH is based on the same hull form as M/Y BIG FISH, but will include six staterooms and accommodation for 14 crew, as well as a flexible owner’s deck with optional forward-facing cabin and both fore and aft decks.

 
The unique arrangement by Greg C. Marshall Naval Architects, allows the skylounge deck to be dedicated solely to owner’s use, or to be incorporated in the yacht’s public space scheme during luxury yacht charter outings. The captain’s cabin and wheelhouse will be located on a fourth deck with a dramatic flying bridge and observation pod above it.

We first introduced our readers to McMullen & Wing yacht BIG FISH in January 2011, as the vessel set out on an around-the-world odyssey.  Along the way, the owner, designer, and builders continued to collect awards and platitudes  for the edgy, angular, and dramatic megayacht, specifically created for sea-going adventure.

================

For additional charter information, contact the megayacht specialists at SailAway Yacht Charters.

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.

==========================

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.

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).

======================================

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 popular classic schooner ELENA, a modern recreation of the famous 1928 Trans Atlantic record holder designed by Nathaniel Herreshoff, has announced plans to offer Caribbean yacht charter vacations this winter.

Sailing across the pond from the Mediterranean, sail yacht ELENA is already reserved for the New Year's holiday week, but has many other prime dates available through April, 2012.

Fantastic performance under sail will make S/Y Elena a favorite for sailing regattas, while her luxurious 5 cabin interior will appeal to families more interested in conventional sail boat charters.  True to her racing spirit, this reincarnated superyacht promises both beauty and grace under sail as well as uncompromising speed.

Guest cabins are exquisitely finished with mahogany paneling while all interior ornamental details closely follow the original Herreshoff drawings. The beautiful varnished mahogany panels are accentuated by white painted ceilings and ceiling beams.

In tribute to the original designer and builder, each cabin is named after a famous Herreshoff schooner: 
Katoura, the Owner’s cabin, boasts a large double bed, and the wide dimensions allow space for a full writing desk.
The Westward cabin also offers a double bed, as does the optional Captain’s cabin, Irolita. The two twin cabins, Ingomar and Mariette, are located adjacent to one another on the starboard side.

Ensuite bathrooms have separate showers and toilets and are finished with elegant, period-simulated fittings. There is ample closet space and an abundance of natural light through the overhead skylights as well as three portholes in every stateroom, and four in the owner’s cabin.
 

==========

Another classic-styled sailing yacht available this winter is the 47 meter schooner sail yacht GERMANIA NOVA.  For more information on these modern replicas, contact the SailAway charter desk at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

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. 

==================

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.

Normally, when you think of traditional gullets and motosailors, you envision Greece yacht charters and boating holidays along the coast of Turkey.

This winter, one Gullet is leaving Mediterranean yacht charters far behind, to relocate to the exotic island destination of the Seychelles.

Traditional gullet NIKOLAS is 73ft motorsailor built in 2006, and now available for hire in the Seychelles. At 23 meters (73ft) in length, and boasting a 6.6 meter beam, she is spacious and stable with plenty of room for large groups of family or friends.

Inside, Turkish gullet NIKOLAS is beautifully-fitted and boasts large wrap-around windows, allowing guests to enjoy views out across the turquoise waters of the Seychelles - while relaxing in air conditioned comfort. The yacht's salon offers a large U-shaped couch to starboard with a dining table and a fully stocked bar to port.

Motor sailor yacht NIKOLAS can accommodate up to 10 guests in 5 double cabins, each with an ensuite bathroom.

The yacht offers spacious outdoor areas - her aft deck has oversized sun pads and a large table for al fresco dining. There are further sun pads located on the fore deck, providing ample sunning areas.

A choice of attractive rates is available:

●  €12,000 per week, plus all expenses for up to 10 passengers
OR
●  €19,600 per week, all inclusive -  3 meals per day, 4 hours cruising fuel per day, and 24-hour generator use for air-conditioning.   A cash bar is available on board or alcohol can be bought locally, duty-free.

Current Bookings:
7 - 21 Dec, 2011                        Mahe to Mahe
23 Dec, 2011 -   1 Jan, 2012       Mahe to Mahe
13 - 18 Feb, 2012                       Mahe to Mahe

Located in the Indian Ocean, the islands of the Seychelles are an idyllic paradise.  Here you will experience white-sand beaches lapped by aquamarine waters, bright blue skies, and year-round sunshine.  Other yachts now available in this tropical paradise include Benetti motor yacht SILVER ANGEL, sail yacht PERLA DEL MARE, and motor yacht MOECCA.

=======================

Contact  the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to learn more about the Seychelles and yachting vacations in the Indian Ocean.

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."

============

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.

After this weekend's 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Feadship motor yacht JANA will hoist her anchor and reposition for the winter season in the Maldives. 

Expected to arrive in mid December, the classic 46-meter Feadship yacht charter vessel is currently available for a Christmas reservation. 

Motor yacht JANA, will remain in the Maldives through mid April and joins a growing list of yachts for hire in this Indian Ocean paradise. 



Other megayachts committed to the winter season in the Maldives include the 64-meter Benetti motor yacht SILVER ANGEL, sail yacht PERLA DEL MARE, the 60-meter motor yacht ARKLEY, and the 150ft motor yacht MOECCA.

Serving as a privately-chartered spectator yacht at this year's Formula 1 race in Abu Dhabi, Feadship yacht JANA will complete one more charter in Abu Dhabi in November before embarking for the Indian Ocean. 



The prospect of offering alternative destinations for winter charters is exciting for JANA Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.  "Our team is committed to expanding the destination options available to our clients," says Sheeder.  "A winter holiday in the warm waters of the Maldives is an excellent alternative to the traditional Caribbean yacht charter vacation." 



The Maldives offer visitors the chance to enjoy crystal clear water and sugar white, sandy beaches.   Located in the Indian Ocean,  the Republic of Maldives is an island nation formed by a double-wrapped chain of twenty-six (26) atolls. The winter water temperature is amazingly warm, about 31 degrees celsius (87 degrees fahrenheit), and the opportunities for snorkeling and watersports seem endless. There are hundreds of reefs, many in the shallow waters of enclosed lagoons.

"We hope to add even more megayachts to the growing list available this winter in the Maldives."

===========

For more information about yacht charters in the Maldives, visit these online brochures:

Lürssen motor yacht ARKLEY

Saba yacht PERLA DEL MARE

Benetti yacht SILVER ANGEL 

Feadship yacht JANA   

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.

========================

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.

The 28 meter sailing yacht WHIRLWIND has joined the growing list of sailboats heading to the Caribbean for the winter and spring seasons, and is offering reduced rates to entice vacationers. 

is the ultimate Virgin Islands yacht charter sailboat for family of 6 to 8, with generous accommodations available in 3 guest staterooms. 

The sailing yacht offers three double cabins, two with a Pullman berth (thus the yacht can accommodate 6 adults + max 2 kids). One double cabin is located forward port side, and two identical cabins are positioned aft at either side of upper saloon stairway. Each cabin is equipped with its own en-suite bathroom and shower.

Onboard amenities include a Crestron-controlled multi-media entertainment system, a PlayStation game station for the kids, and iPod docking stations throughout the yacht.

Launched in 1988 by the fabled Holland Jachtbouw shipyard, the yacht features the classic styling of interior designer Andrew Winch who oversaw a major interior refit this year (2011).

The yacht is available for the year-end holidays at a rate of  € 32,760 per week.  At the conclusion of the holidays, special winter and spring rates will take effect, with the price dropping to € 19,950 per week (regular winter/spring rate is € 26,600 per week). All rates are plus expenses.

====================

For availability and further details, please contact the SailAway Yacht Charter reservations department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html

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.”

=============

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.

==========

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

The 203ft motor yacht ICON has announced plans to position for the winter and spring in the warm waters of the Caribbean. 

Built in 2010, motor yacht ICON offers acomodations for 12 guests in 6 staterooms and features a crew compliment of  16.

Designed for extensive world cruising, she is a high-volume megayacht yet appears sleek and elegant, with a contemporary design throughout. The yacht offers luxurious accommodations and an amazing “beach club” deck area with an adjacent fitness room, accessed directly from the lower guests cabins. 

Huge decks spaces, state of the art entertainment systems and an exceptional crew make this a first class Caribbean yacht charter option.

Caribbean winter rates for all weeks, December through April are listed at $475,000 per week, plus runnig expenses. 

===========================

Other yachts for hire this winter and spring in the Caribbean and Bahamas inlcude 191ft motor yacht CARPE DIEM, 183ft sail yacht FIDELIS, and 180ft motor yacht HARBOUR ISLAND.  Contact the SailAway yacht charter desk at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html our charter desk for more information.

Motor yacht JO, the 164-foot Benetti yacht charter vessel has announced plans to spend the winter season in the Caribbean.

Voted "Best Family Charter Yacht 2011" by Superyacht World magazine, the 2004 Benetti motoryacht JO offers accommodations for 12 guests in 6 staterooms.

Captain Ian Robertson reflects on what makes this yacht unique in the industry - the combination of a tranquil environment with modern amenities.  "There is an atmosphere that radiates calmness, and you feel it from the moment you step aboard," says Robertson. "The yacht as a whole is meticulously maintained, participating in two yard (maintenance) periods per year.  Our owner understands the importance of updating tenders, watersports equipment, and the onboard entertainment equipment on a regular basis."

"There are plenty of watertoys both for children and adults," says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters.  "The 12 crew members onboard motor yacht JO are among the best family-friendly crewmembers in the industry."

Foodies will appreciate the talents of chef David Beltran, as he cooks with both passion and flare. His signature dish is "Veal Zurich."  At mealtime, Beltran orates his menus to the guests, not in any traditional format, but in rhyming couplets - often interjecting a few words in Italian, Spanish, German, and French!

Similar yachts available for hire in the Caribbean include  50 meter motor yacht WHEELS,  58 meter yacht MI SUENO, and  45 meter motor yacht ILLUSION.

==========

Rates for motor yacht JO range from $175,000 per week for non-premium periods to $225,000 per week for year-end holidays.  Running expenses are extra.  To reserve yacht JO, click HERE at http://www.1800sailaway.com/inquiry.php?y=jo

With the demand for luxury sailing charter catamarans on the rise, the team at Lagoon recently introduced the all-new 2012 Lagoon 620 catamaran at the Cannes Boat Show.  Designed by the architects Van Peteghem and Lauriot Prévost (VPLP), the Lagoon 620 is an innovative solution to the needs of today's discerning Caribbean yacht charter client.  The  yacht seamlessly blends strength, comfort, and performance in a charter-friendly cabin layout .

The 2012 version of the Lagoon 620, features luxurious and comfortable interiors by Nauta.  In the dining room, the settees have been redesigned, as well as the ceiling, enabling more indirect lighting.  On the starboard side, the master cabin has also been modified, with a washroom now placed aft on either side of the cockpit access stairs.  This modification creates more storage space in the bedroom fro the charterer's luggage.  The forward starboard cabin, can now be called a true V.I.P. suite, with additional volume created by the repositioning of the master cabin's washroom.

The Lagoon 620 catamaran will be built in 4, 5 and 6 cabin versions, all featuring Nauta interior layout packages and incorporating wood finish, upholstery, inner liners, and more…

Exceptional living space, both above and below deck will continue to define Lagoon catamarans for years to come as the sophisticated choice for multi hull yacht vacations.

Catamaran multihull sailboats are also available for bareboat vacations (yachts without crew).  SailAway offers bareboat charter, also.

==============

Several newer-model Lagoon catamarans are already in service and available for hire, including the Lagoon 560 sail catamaran BACCHUS and the Lagoon 450 sail catamaran OKEANOS.  Contact the SailAway charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

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."

===========

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.

With the Mediterranean yacht charter season drawing to a close, two Euro-based superyachts have announced plans to relocate for the winter 2011/spring 2012 season.

The award-winning 60 meter motor yacht ARKLEY should arrive in the Maldives Islands by early December, while the impressive 52 meter motor yacht BEL ABRI will take a position in St Martin in the Caribbean.

Lürssen Yacht charter aficionados will recognize the Espen Oeino-designed motor yacht ARKLEY.  Built in 2009, this is a  world-class superyacht with true style and sophistication. Since winning the Motor Yacht of the Year accolade at the World Superyacht Awards, ARKLEY has offered an unrivalled charter experience and continues to receive high acclaim from clients.

The Lürssen-built yacht offers 12 guests relaxed and comfortable surroundings, draped in a contemporary Mark Berryman design.

Weekly rental prices start at €430,000 per week, plus running expenses.

=======================

Constructed by Amels in 2010 to a Tim Heywood design, motor yacht BEL ABRI is one of the most impressive charter yachts on the market today. The Laura Sessa interior design on  Amels yacht BEL ABRI creates a feeling of true comfort and space.  Accommodations for up to 11 guests are available in five guest staterooms.

Her weekly rental fee is €275,000 plus all running expenses.

=======================

Come explore the warm waters of the Caribbean.  Contact the SailAway destination team at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details.

Following discussions at the 2011 Monaco Yacht Show, the fabled team at Dubois Designs has entered a contract with an existing client for the construction of a 100m sloop.  

“We are pleased to announce the design contract for a 100m sloop,” says Ed Dubois.  “This will demand a 30 month design programme with construction expected to commence mid 2013 with completion 2016. Further information will be available late 2012.”

Expected to be one of the most spectacular private yachts, the main mast will tower 125 meters above the water.  Designed to be an explorer yacht, much of the luxury sailing charter vessel's volume will be dedicated to stowage space for tenders and equipment. This impressive sailing yacht will hold a maximum draft of 12.8m, accommodations for 20 crew in single cabins, and a unique hard top over the flybridge.

No shipyard has yet to be chosen for the construction, but Josep Juanpere Miret in onboard as the interior designer.

Ed Dubois was recently in the news for establishing a cancer fund for children.  Yachts designed by Dubois and his team have swept numerous superyacht awards in the past year.

==================

For a luxurious winter vacation on the water, charter a Dubois-designed yacht such as sail yacht KOKOMO or sail yacht TWIZZLE.  Contact the SailAway yacht charter desk at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details.