Superyacht

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.

Anyone who has enjoyed a luxury yacht charter can attest to the epicurean delights prepared and presented by some of the finest chefs in the world.  From select cuts of beef to freshly-caught seafood - only the finest ingredients are used.

Unfortunately, the same attention to detail is not always present ashore and back at home - especially when it comes to mislabeled seafood. 

Recent reports suggest that species may be mislabeled as much as 25 to 70 percent of the time for commonly swapped species such as red snapper, Atlantic cod, and wild salmon.  This mislabeling not only rips off consumers, but can hurt our oceans as well.

That's where you come in - the oceans need you, Sherlock Holmes!

The folks at Oceana, a celebrity-driven advocacy group for the protection of our seas, is recruiting "Seafood Sleuths" - volunteers to help identify seafood fraud. 

Simply put - they're looking for fishy seafood in your area, and need your help.

Do you have what it takes to be a Seafood Sleuth?

Seafood fraud covers a number of dirty activities that seek to skirt the rules and rip us off, including mislabeling seafood as a totally different fish. In the coming months, Seafood Sleuths will buy seafood from either a grocery store or a restaurant and send a small piece of fish back to Oceana.  The Oceana science team will work with a lab to use DNA to identify the fish species and report the results.

Earlier this year, Oceana tested seafood in the Boston area and found that 18% of the seafood purchased from major grocery store chains was mislabeled.  The Boston Globe published a two day story on seafood fraud in New England markets and restaurants and found 48% of the fish to be mislabeled.

You might wonder why this situation is not prevalent in the yacht charter industry.

Purchases of fresh foods for Caribbean yacht charter vessels, and indeed superyacht vessels everywhere, lies in the hands of the yacht's highly-trained onboard chef.  Most chefs personally visit the markets and select the entire fish, guaranteeing they are purchasing exactly the type of fish they want. 

So here is your opportunity to fight seafood fraud in your hometown — sign up to be a Seafood Sleuth NOW.

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To learn how to fight seafrood fraud, contact the SailAway mega yacht charter department at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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."
    
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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.

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking forward to a strong Mediterranean yacht charter season, the 30 meter sail yacht NOSTROMO cruises into 2012 with highly-competitive, reduced rental rates.

Beginning with the upcoming summer high season (July and August), rates have been slashed by 23% - from €45,000 per week to an attractive €35,000 per week. Rates are plus expenses.



Launched in 2009, the sleek, modern sloop was designed by Dubois Yachts and built by British superyacht builder Pendennis.  Since her arrival on the charter scene, Dubois sail yacht NOSTROMO quickly became a popular sailing yacht in France and Italy before crossing the Atlantic for service as a Caribbean yacht charter vessel. 

Pendennis yacht NOSTROMO boasts a beautiful interior, designed by Redman Whitely Dixon.  There are four cabins that can be converted to offer 3 modern double cabins and 1 single cabin with a bath.

Available in the Eastern Mediterranean, her experienced crew is keen to charter.  With attractive new rates, expect prime summer dates to be booked quickly. 

Similar yachts available this summer in the Eastern Mediterranean include  the 43 meter sail yacht CLEAR EYES, 38 meter gullet yacht ESMA SULTAN, 34 meter sail yacht ANNAGINE, and the 32 meter crewed catamaran charters superstar sail yacht IPHARRA.

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For further information contact the SailAway Mediterranean destination 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.
 

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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 55 meter motoryacht HUNTRESS is available for a Caribbean yacht charter in the area of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for a holiday charter, between 15 December and 30 December, 2011. 

To entice Feadship yacht charter enthusiasts, she is offering 8 days for the price of 7 - a savings of nearly $40,000!

With  accommodations for up to 10 guests in 5 comfortable staterooms, Feadship motor yacht HUNTRESS is poised to visit the beautiful multi-island nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.  Charter guests will enjoy a unique combination of fabulous cruising, rainforest eco-adventures, spectacular scuba diving and snorkeling, and classic Caribbean powder-white sand beaches.

Captain Jeff Guymon and crew are keen to welcome you onboard!

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Yacht HUNTRESS is priced at $275,000/wk plus running expenses.  For further details, contact the SailAway destination experts at http://www.1800sailaway.com/contact_us.html.

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

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

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

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

Quiet Waters

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

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


Flotation

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

Yachts and Watts

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

Other Trends

According to industry analysts other top trends include:

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

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

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

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

Future Expectations

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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










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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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