Superyacht

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

A 45 meter luxury yacht has just completed a $1 million dollar refit and is keen to secure bookings this winter and spring in the Bahamas.

Motor yacht CLAIRE, a 150 foot Trinity yacht charter vessel is currently available for hire in the pristine waters of the Bahamas, after undergoing weeks of maintenance and remodeling.  

Launched in 2003, the 2011 million dollar "facelift" included new décor and furniture, a new audio/visual entertainment system, installation of large screen TV’s on all exterior decks, and a new aft deck and dining area that converts to a cinema lounge.  In essence, everything on board is either new or renewed, top to bottom.

Trinity motor yacht CLAIRE offers accommodation for 10 guests in 5 staterooms.

The weekly charter rate is $150,000 per week, plus running expenses.

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For further information about motor yacht CLAIRE and chartering in the Bahamas, please contact the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

Whether in the galley of a superyacht or the kitchen of a fine restaurant, Chef Geoffrey Fisher relishes the opportunity to blend creativity, talent and knowledge to transform everyday ingredients into stunning, delicious creations.

While the 35 year old Fisher, born in Manchester, England, is at the top of his profession, he continues to hone his skills.  "I push myself (sometimes) 16 hours a day,” says Fisher. “Being a chef is all about passion. If you don’t have it, don’t go there. It’s long, unsociable hours. It’s not a job; it’s a way of life. Being a chef, you learn something new every day, by working with other chefs, reading books, even watching cooking programs on TV."

His lessons in cuisine and hospitality began early in life, as Fisher washed dishes in his parents’ restaurant in Lancaster, England. He watched the chefs and thought, “I could do that!” His mom and dad recognized his talent and encouraged him to get a formal culinary education.

Fisher attended Lancaster & Morecambe College and took a three-year chef/catering course. He learned everything from general basics and waiting to theory and cooking. He won "best student chef" three years in a row and became runner-up in the national competition, Nestle Toque d’or. In between classes, Fisher worked for his parents in their restaurant.

By age 24, Fisher was head chef at the Swag and Tails, a restaurant in Knightsbridge where he stayed for nearly four years. “It was here I learned how to deal with people, order food, costing and the unpleasant duty of how to fire people,” he said.

Looking for a new adventure, Fisher decided to join a friend in Europe who was chef on the 47-meter M/Y Commitment, which happened to be on charter at the Monaco Grand Prix.  A week onboard and Fisher was hooked and started looking into a career in yachting.

With a little help from the chef onboard sail yacht TWIZZLE,  Fisher landed a job onboard motor yacht WHEELS, and quickly learned charter chefs must be flexible. “I make a point of having a chat with them (charter guests) as soon as possible when they arrive to find out not only what cuisine they like, but also what they don’t like, or if they have any allergies. Talking with the guests is important," says Fisher.

Fisher also learned the pressure of working on a yacht for hire can be intense.  "The pressure in restaurants is tense, but completely different on yachts. On yachts, it’s intense because you never stop cooking. When it’s not the guests, it’s the crew," states Fisher.

After his stint onboard M/Y WHEELS, Fisher joined the crew on motor yacht SLIPSTREAM, where he is still the executive chef.  As to his future plans, Fisher says, "In time I would like to own a small restaurant in Malta. In the kitchen, it’s said you’re only as good as your last service. In yachting, I always say, you’re only as good as your last charter.”

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Rent private yacht - Enjoy the gourmet services of the world's best chefs on a yaching holiday.  Contact the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html for further details. 

The biggest highlight of snorkeling during a Caribbean yacht charter is usually swimming among schools of fish, or seeing sea turtles and sting rays from afar. However, one charter yacht hopes to offer visitors the chance to frolic with a much larger marine animal.

Richard Branson's yacht, the sail catamaran NECKER BELLE, is offering two humpback whale watching charters this spring in the Silver Bank, a region in the Atlantic midway between Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

From January to March, humpback whales mate and calve in the Silver Bank, before migrating to colder waters.  According to Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, "you can slip into the water and snorkel with the calves as their mothers watch from a safe distance below."

Two weeklong expeditions are scheduled on the 105' catamaran NECKER BELLE, owned by adventurer and business tycoon Sir Richard Branson.  Charterers may choose either 16 - 23 February or 8 - 15 March, 2012.  

Launched in 2003 and rebuilt in 2009 at Azzura Yachts, Australia, the sail yacht NECKER BELLE was a finalist in the World Superyacht Awards 2010 in the "Best Refitted Yacht" Category.  The yacht received a Judges' Special Commendation.

Four guest cabins provide accommodation for 8 guests.  The master cabin offers a queen bed. Two VIP staterooms can convert from double to twin berths. The fourth cabin offers a double bed.  All staterooms offer ensuite bathrooms.  An additional 2 guests can be accommodated in the saloon - the sofa converts to a double bed. For the adventurous the two aft deck sun pads can be transformed into outdoor berths (removable tent-style structures protect guests from the elements) - great for those wishing to sleep under the stars! A shower is available in the day head for those using the outdoor berths or saloon.

The price per week is $130,000 and includes the yacht, professional crew, and the guidance of whale expert Tom Conlin of Aquatic Adventures.   Running expenses such as food, bar, and fuel are extra.    

When whales are sighted, charterers will have the opportunity to leave the yacht NECKER BELLE on an inflatable raft, led by naturalist guide Tom CONLIN, to get close to the whales.  There are a few situations in which snorkeling is not possible, like when two males are fighting for territory or a few males are trying to impress a female whale. But the calves are very curious and non-aggressive, and snorkelors are taught to approach them using slow, gentle movements.

“Being in the water and seeing a whale is a life-changing experience," says Sheeder.  "You’ll never forget it."

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For reservation information to swim with whales in the Caribbean, contact SailAway Yacht Charters at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html today.

The massive new 70 meter motor yacht NUMPTIA has been continually in the news since her late 2011 launch. The yacht has gained notice for her award-winning chef, Heather Kaniuk, as well as her unique and elegant wellness spa deck.

Now comes word the Caribbean yacht charter vessel hopes to lure more US-dollar business, by combining a rate reduction with complimentary extra charter days.

Effective immediately - for each week of charter booked, the customer will receive an additional 2 FREE DAYS OF CHARTER.  Thus, charterers can pay for 7 days and receive two more complimentary days onboard Rossi Navi luxury motor yacht NUMPTIA.

In addition to the free days, the yacht has converted her rates - from 490,000 EUROS per week to 490,000 US DOLLARS per week.  The effect of the foreign currency conversion results in a real dollar savings of $144,000 per week - the equivalent of a 23% price break. 

All rates are plus running expenses.

"This foreign currency conversion will have a special appeal to our US-based clients who have seen the value of the dollar pale in comparison to the Euro for the past 8 years,"  says yacht maven Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters. "Not only does this mitigate the loss of purchasing power of the foreign currency translation, but it provides a significant incentive to book this yacht at a deeply-discounted price."

The Italian-built superyacht features accommodations for 12 guests. Onboard amenities include an elevator between all decks, fireplace, super inflatable slide, and a massive 3D big screen TV.   Numptia's unique spa deck offers a fully-equipped gym, steam room, sauna, beauty salon, and massage room, plus forward exterior bar & dining areas on the spa deck to create the ultimate at-sea oasis.  

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Come enjoy a wellness vacation abord motor yacht NUMPTIA.  For reservations, contact the SailAway destination specialists at http://www.1800sailaway.com/inquiry.php?y=numptia.

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

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

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

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

WELLNESS VACATIONS...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Staluppi, the luxury yacht charter world's archetypical yacht owner is at it again. Driven by imagination and pride, Staluppi has taken possession of his 16th megayacht. 

Launched on Saturday 26th November 2011 at the state-of-the-art Benetti shipyard in Livorno, Italy the 60 meter Benetti FB253 is the boat's official identification, but like so many of his earlier yachts, the vessel has been christened to honor another James Bond classic novel and film - motor yacht DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER.

Based on the shipyard's famed naval architecture and engineering, the elegant external line of the new Benetti FB253 M/Y (Motoryacht) DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER is characterized by compact forms and dynamic slender lines.  This balanced combination of traditional design elements and modern innovative stylistic solutions has become the benchmark of Benetti's distinguishing mark throughout the world.

Long a fan of the James Bond 007 saga,  Staluppi's earlier creations included the aptly named motor yacht OCTOPUSSY, motoryacht MOONRAKER, motor yacht THUNDERBALL, M/Y THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH, and the popular Bahama yacht charters mega yacht CASINO ROYALE, a fixture at the posh Atlantis Resort and Marina on Paradise Island.

Although M/Y CASINO ROYALE and his latest effort M/Y DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER were built for true luxury at sea, Staluppi's earlier James Bond boat creations were built with a singular focus - SPEED.  Setting records as some of the fastest superyachts in the world, it was the 43.5 meter motor yacht OCTOPUSSY which broke the 50-knot speed barrier 20 years ago and brought the name of New York-born John Staluppi to the attention of yacht aficionados.

With a background that is now well-known, the self-made millionaire left school when he was 16 and worked as a mechanic in Brooklyn before going on to develop one of the most successful car dealerships in North America -- a business that enabled him to indulge his passion for racing fast boats, and then later for building megayachts.

While many charter yacht owners prefer to remain anonymous, Staluppi's vision and passion bring fervor and excitement to a very conservative industry. After all, there aren't many yachts aboard which guests are greeted by frosted-glass panels delicately etched with the silhouettes of Bond girls! 

The customized, whimsical James Bond boat themes are a refreshing breath of fresh air in an industry of white, cookie-cutter production boats.  Let's hope Staluppi doesn't run out of 007 movie titles, or his passion, any time soon.

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Live the adventure - come explore an exotic destination on a James Bond boat. Contact SailAway Yacht Charters' 007 agent headquarters at http//www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html to arrange your luxury yacht charter.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yesterday, a client texted us from his 170 foot Feadship yacht charter vessel. "@ anchor next 2  yacht Eclipse & Larry Ellison motor yacht Rising Sun...no 1 else here!" 

Normally, with less than a week before New Year's Eve, the quay at Port du Gustavia is already packed with yachts, stern-to and packed like sardines, side-by-side.  The annual St Barts yacht charter scene is the place to be, as A-list celebrities and corporate CEO's spend the week yacht-hopping and partying. 

So far this week, the big names - and big boats - have not arrived.

A recent yachting industry report ads credence to the first-hand observations in St Barts.  The annual Superyachting Index analyses the global luxury yacht industry. The Index has three sections (new construction, brokerage, and charter) and covers yachts 80 feet and larger.

According to Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters, "A lack of demand continues to put downward pressure on charter rates. A weak global economy coupled with a significant increase in the number of available yachts for hire means more yachts are competing for charter business.  Add to this a host of other heavily-discounted vacation options, such as upscale villa and resort ski packages, and the number of clients electing to go boating has dwindled to 2006 recession levels."  

The Index supports Sheeder's assertions.  The size of the yacht charter industry grew more than 23 percent in 2010. As of 2009, there were about 850 yachts available for charter. In 2010, the number of yachts available rose to 1,049.

This trend is especially evident in the category of yachts from 30 to 50 meters (about 100 to 165 feet). There was a 28 per cent increase in the number of these yachts on the charter market in 2010. Consequently, the same market segment saw a reduction of 10.7 per cent in weekly base rates.

In addition, the overall number of charter weeks sold worldwide in 2010 decreased by 9 percent from those of 2009. That means that in addition to increased competition, there were fewer clients booking.

All luxury travel companies are looking forward to a healthier economy.

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For further information about the global megayacht market, contact SailAway President Jana Sheeder directly at jsheeder@1800sailaway.com or via the web at  http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We first introduced our readers to the Dan Snyder - owned Amels motor yacht LADY S back in October, after the NFL Washington Redskins head honcho purchased the 70 meter megayacht.

Word now comes that motor yacht LADY S is offering a special deal in the month of January:
Enjoy a Caribbean yacht charter with your family and friends for 9 nights, but pay for only 7.

This special deal shaves $142,000 off the charter rate. 

A superyacht with great ambiance and onboard facilities, special features include vast shaded outdoor space, a Jacuzzi pool with swim jets, and ample sunbathing areas. There is also a fully-equipped gym, massage area, and Hammam (Turkish sauna), as well as an elevator serving all levels.   Zero speed stabilizers keep the yacht from rocking in any rough weather.

Here's a complete list of the yacht's key features and amenities:

● The interior has undergone a complete makeover including new salon parquet flooring and soft furnishings/furniture and curtains in Hermes fabrics throughout.   

● A huge double Owner’s suite incorporates a library / office and twin his & hers shower and Jacuzzi bath

● 5 guest staterooms:  A VIP cabin, 3 double guests, and 1 cabin with 2 single berths and a Pullman.

● A 7th cabin for staff with 2 singles and ensuite shower

● Brand new Hermes and Puiforcat fine china, Baccarat glassware, and Ercuis flatware

● Linley accessories such as vases and cocktail trays

● New Pizza Oven

● New Teppanyaki Grill

● New Bang & Olufsen televisions with movie-theater surround sound throughout

● New JVC 4K high definition projector in the main salon

● Heated Jacuzzi dip pool with swim jets and in-water exercise bar

● Brand new Summit deck furniture and all new deck cushions

● Turkish Sauna/shower room

● Well-equipped gym including two brand new Woodway treadmills, Techno Multi Cross training platform, a Synchro Excite and stationary bicycle

Based in Antigua, her weekly winter charter rate is $497,000 plus running expenses. 

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To charter Lady S, please contact the SailAway luxury yacht charter destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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