Yacht Charter Destinations Luxury Yacht & Superyacht News

Newport Charter Yacht Show June 18-21, 2012

February 09, 2012

Under new ownership, this summer’s revamped Newport Charter Yacht Show (NCYS) guarantees charter boat owners, brokers, agents and boating enthusiasts a convenient one-stop location for presenting and exploring the endless possibilities of luxury yacht chartering. The four-day event is the only one of its kind in the U.S. and while catering primarily to the yacht charter trade, it also allows discriminating consumers (attending with brokers) to learn more about dream vacations on one of the many world-class yachts (ranging from 50 to 200 feet) that will be present.

Newport Charter Yacht Show to be held from June 18-21, 2012.

Newport Charter Yacht Show to be held from June 18-21, 2012.

Directly preceding the America’s Cup World Series in Newport, the NCYS will also showcase ancillary goods and services aimed at captains and crew and host a series of industry-focused seminars on destination cruising, maritime law and new technology.

About the Newport Charter Yacht Show

Newport Charter Yacht Show is celebrating 30 years in existence and is a showcase of luxury charter yachts alongside a display of ancillary goods and services for the charter industry. The four-day event is dedicated exclusively to yacht charter professionals; agents, owners, brokers and captains in the dynamic, picturesque setting of Newport, Rhode Island. The Newport Charter Yacht Show is now owned and operated by Newport Harbor Corporation (NHC). NHC also owns the prestigious Newport International Boat Show which takes place annually in September.

The Newport Charter Yacht Show’s core focus will pivot around a world-class display of luxury yachts and superyachts ranging from 50’ to 300’+ available for Charter as well as the services and amenities available to support yachts and their crews.

Potential categories on display at the Newport Yachting Center upland areas may include:

•Superyacht Industry (Builders, Shipyards, Brokerage, Charter, Engines, Electronics, Communications & Accessories)

•Products (Cars, Private Aircraft, Jewelry, Wine, Watches, Art, Clothing)

•Destinations (Private Clubs, Resorts, Real Estate)

•Services (Interior Design, Yacht Management & Wealth Management)

The Newport Charter Yacht Show is held in Newport, which is famously referred to as “America’s First Resort” and the yachting capital of the world. With a large, sheltered harbor within Narragansett Bay, Newport offers easy access to the Cape and Islands and is one of the primary destinations for chartering, cruising, racing and sailing during the summer months. Situated directly between New York City and Boston, Newport draws visitors from one of the wealthiest population corridors in the world.

FACILITY:

The Newport Yachting Center is able to accommodate vessels up to 300’, with long side tie runs, high-volume fueling, single and multi-phase power, CATV, Wi-Fi, and water, as well as a wide range of technical repair and support services along with easy access to adjacent downtown Newport.

FORUMS & SEMINARS:

To include highly-qualified speakers, industry experts, and forums specific to the Charter Yacht industry that will reveal the latest developments in new products and technology.

CAPTAINS & CREW:

Superyacht captains are influential in determining all aspects of yacht operations, destination cruising and vessel management. Therefore, a ‘captain & crew’ area of the event will include educational seminars and competitions geared specifically towards the workforce of these large vessels.

SUPPORTING EVENTS & VENUES:

Beyond the core focus of the Charter Yachts, participants will have access to local amenities such as fine dining, lodging, entertainment and a host of support services all within walking distance of the Newport Yachting Center.

NEWPORT HARBOR CORPORATION:

Newport Harbor Corporation is a leader in hospitality services and event production. NHC owns and operates:

•Newport Yachting Center & Marina

•Newport Charter Yacht Show

•Newport International Boat Show

•Newport Restaurant Group – featuring eight award-winning restaurants

•Castle Hill Inn – an internationally-recognized Relais & Châteaux property

This union of great show management with a high-level of hospitality and service ultimately will enrich the experience for attendees, exhibitors and sponsors, and places our company in the perfect position to host a wide range of yacht and yachting related functions.

‘Mallorca Superyacht Days’ in Port Adriano, Palma de Mallorca – Superyachts for sale and charter in Spain

February 09, 2012

The first ever ‘Mallorca Superyacht Days’ will take place at Port Adriano from April 28 to 30, 2012. The superyacht event will be attended by the island’s main yacht brokers and will host around 30 sailing and motor boats measuring over 24 metres long. The ‘Mallorca Superyacht Days’ at Port Adriano is the first event for selling and chartering superyachts to be organised in Spain. Admission to the event is solely by personal invitation, issued to customers and clients by the companies taking part

‘Mallorca Superyacht Days’ to be hosted by Port Adriano – Superyachts for sale and charter in Spain

‘Mallorca Superyacht Days’ to be hosted by Port Adriano – Superyachts for sale and charter in Spain

Port Adriano’s new installations, which possess all the services superyachts require, are the perfect setting for hosting this event. Just 30 minutes by car from Palma de Mallorca, Port Adriano is one of the Mediterranean’s most select marinas for yachts and superyachts, with a total mooring area of 25,000 m2 y 82 berths measuring from 25 to 60/80m.

As well as 10,000 m2 of repair areas, Port Adriano also possesses dry-dock equipped for superyachts, with a 250-tonne travel-lift and workshops. In addition, it has a shopping area with prestigious international brands, which was designed by Phillippe Starck.

Motor yacht LA PAUSA and APACHE II available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

February 07, 2012

Luxury motor yacht LA PAUSA, a Custom Line Ferretti Navetta 26 built in 2010 and the 2009 Baglietto motor yacht APACHE II,  a superyacht measuring 44,00m (144′ 4″) both are available for charter during the Monaco Grand Prix and both have confirmed berths for the event which is held from the 24th to the 27th of May 2012.

Luxury motor yacht LA PAUSA, a Custom Line Ferretti Navetta 26 available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

Luxury motor yacht LA PAUSA, a Custom Line Ferretti Navetta 26 available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

Motor yacht LA PAUSA and APACHE II available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

Motor yacht LA PAUSA and APACHE II available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

The 26m Ferretti charter yacht LA PAUSA is available for charters during GP Monaco with a confirmed berth in the Port, the exact location is indicated with a red arrow in the mage below. From left and right of the LA PAUSA yacht’s berth there will be 2 big screens installed with online translation of the race.

The charter yacht LA PAUSA is able to host up to 40 guests for a static cocktail reception in the Port and is able to accommodate up to 11 guests overnight in a Master cabin on main deck, 2 VIP double cabins and 2 Twins guests cabins with 1 Pullman bed. All cabin with en-suite facilities. La Pausa has a qualified crew of 4.

Motor yacht LA PAUSA features a combination of classical styling and elegance together with most innovative technology. She features large windows enabling natural light to filter into the living area and to every cabin, natural woods and leathers, a sky lounge on the upper deck and a large cockpit furnished with an extendable table.

The main deck features a comfortable saloon and dining area leading out into the cockpit. Luxury motor yacht LA PAUSA also has a sky lounge situated behind the helm on the upper deck with the captain, a clear view all around, with aft-deck access.

The luxury yacht LA PAUSA is able for a 5 day charter during the Monaco Grand Prix. The 5 day charter rate including the exceptional berth is only EUR 62,000 euro + 30% APA!

Another yacht that is available for a luxury yacht charter during the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix is motor yacht APACHE II. The Baglietto Motor yacht APACHE II is a superyacht measuring 44,00m (144′ 4″). Built in 2009, the external lines and the interior design of motor yacht APACHE II which is modern and minimalistic boasting a rich variety of natural materials were created by Paszkowski Design.

APACHE II available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

APACHE II available for Monaco Grand Prix charter with confirmed berth

M/Y APACHE II is ideal for event charters and offers entertainment at its absolute finest. She has the capacity to host up to 100 guests for cocktails at port with the possibility of a seated dinner for up to 40 (with rental furniture). A transparent tent can also be made available which fully covers sun deck and aft deck for protection from the elements.  The yacht APACHE II boasts a large sun deck with 360 degree panoramic views has a very flexible configuration for all sorts of events and has a professional and qualified crew. Motor yacht APACHE II can accommodate up to 10-12 guests overnight in 5 cabins comprising of a Master cabin, 2 double bedded cabins and 2 twin cabins with a Pullman bunk in each.

The APACHE II yacht already has a berth reserved for the Monaco Grand Prix, located on T Jetty not far from yacht LA PAUSA offering excellent views on the Quai Albert 1er and the giant screen. The berth is guaranteed until the 27th of February only and the total fee is €26,450.

Motor yacht APACHE II -  Top Deck ideal for event charters and functions

Motor yacht APACHE II - Top Deck ideal for event charters and functions

Luxury yacht APACHE II has a modern interior that provides a calm and spacious oasis. The stylish salon features a comfortable low lying L shaped couch and a low coffee table facing a large 42 inch pop up Plasma TV to port. The elegant formal dining room boasts 2 unique extendable terraces on the port and starboard sides, adjacent to dining area doors which increase the width of the dining room as well as providing a connection to the outside environment.

Superyacht APACHE II’s aft deck features a seating area and easy access to the swimming platform via stairs to the port side. There are also port and starboard boarding ladders. One of motor yacht APACHE II’s special features is her huge top deck that boasts room for Al-fresco dining, sun pads, a wooden steamer, sun loungers, a wet bar, ice maker, fridge, teppanyaki, 2 bimini shade covers.

90m superyacht PHOENIX 2 by Lurssen available for luxury yacht charters

February 07, 2012

The superyacht PHOENIX 2, a 90m (297’) Lurssen built motor yacht which was delivered last year is now available for luxury yacht charters. The Phoenix 2 megayacht is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter, based in the Virgin Islands and will also be available for select charters in the Western Mediterranean during the 2012 summer.

Motor yacht PHOENIX 2 available for charter

Motor yacht PHOENIX 2 available for charter

M/Y Phoenix² is by no means a sequel to the original 60m superyacht Phoenix that was launched at Lürssen in 2004. She was carefully designed and constructed to ensure that the essence of the original yacht has been kept, but as her new name appropriately suggests, she has been ‘squared’ in both her complexity and size making her a much bigger, better and more beautiful yacht.

Due to the success of the original yacht Phoenix, her owner employed the same designers and builders to construct the Phoenix 2 yacht which includes Andrew Winch Designs and the Lürssen shipyard.

Luxury Super Yacht Phoenix 2′s exterior was designed by Andrew Winch Designs, producing an elegant and contemporary line, complemented by more than 100 metres of stainless steel handrails. The Lürssen yacht Phoenix II’s interior boasts the imaginative use of furnishings, fabrics and furniture, influenced by the New York 1930’s era, which is also incorporated into her carefully designed unique general arrangement.

Motor yacht PHOENIX 2 -  Cruising

Motor yacht PHOENIX 2 - Cruising

Special features of the PHOENIX 2 include a cinema located on the lower deck and a fully equipped Spa deck offering Gymnasium, Hamman, Spa room with massage table and beauty salon. An elevator connects all levels, running from the lower deck up to the bridge deck.

The yacht Phoenix 2 is able to accommodate up to 12 charter guests in beautifully appointed guests areas that have been designed to offer an immense volume. The master stateroom is a full beam Deco Duplex apartment that provides unrivalled and undisturbed views out to sea. A private staircase joins the two floors together whilst a private foredeck complete with Jacuzzi offers exterior privacy to the client. The VIP Cabin transforms into a full beam suite with private sea terrace and bathing platform. The yacht has a further 5 beautifully appointed guests cabins each with ensuite facilities.

Motor yacht Phoenix 2’s social areas are spacious and include large an elegant main salon complete with a custom Steinway piano and a formal dining area. On the upper level the Sky lounge opens out to an inside/outside dining area complete with glass screens creating the ultimate in dining experiences.

The exteriors spaces of the Lursssen yacht Phoenix are just as grand, with 6 beautifully appointed exterior deck areas for guests to enjoy. The Sun deck boasts a large 7m swimming pool with swim jet, ample sun pads, separate Jacuzzi as well as an exterior cinema, while the oversize swim platform can be set up as an exterior “sea” lounge or beach club.

The yacht Phoenix 2 boasts an impressive array of water toys including 3 guest tenders and a talented crew of 28 including a 3-chef team. The yacht PHOENIX 2 charters at the rate of between EUR 800,000 – 850,000 per week plus all expenses.

92m Superyacht Mayan Queen IV by Blohm + Voss in Marlborough, New Zealand

February 03, 2012

The 92m superyacht Mayan Queen IV, built in 2008 by Blohm + Voss in Germany is currently cruising in New Zealand and was recently spotted anchored up in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds.  The impressive 92m (302 ft) motor yacht Mayan Queen IV is able to accommodate up to 16 guests and has a total of 24 crew members. The megayacht Mayan Queen IV was designed by superyacht designer Tim Heywood, with interior Design by Terence Disdale Design Ltd.

92m Mayan Queen IV in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand

92m Mayan Queen IV in the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand

Spanning 6 decks, the Mayan Queen IV yacht is listed as the 33rd biggest superyacht in the world and is an impressive site. The yacht has been in New Zealand since September last year and was one of the superyachts berthed in the newly redeveloped Wynyard Quarter in Auckland during the 2011 Rugby World Cup.  The yacht remained in Auckland until early 2012, receiving some maintenance and servicing work.

One of the largest yachts to visit New Zealand in the past 6 years and certainly one of the largest megayachts to grace Queen Charlotte Sound, the M/Y Mayan Queen IV is owned by Mexican billionaire Alberto Bailleres.  Alberto Bailleres chairs Mexico’s second-largest mining company, Industrias Penoles, which one of the world’s largest silver miners.

Mr Bailleres reportedly has a net worth of US$11.9 billion and was ranked at number 66 on Forbes magazine’s March 2011 list of the world’s billionaires.

Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, owner of the Chelsea Football Club owns the world’s largest superyacht Eclipse, also built by Blohm & Voss which is an imposing 164m (538)  in length.

Superyacht Mayan Queen IV - Profile showing Owners stateroom balcony.

Superyacht Mayan Queen IV - Profile showing Owners stateroom balcony.

Before making her way to the Marlborough Sounds, the Mayan Queen IV yacht was also spotted further south in Dunedin, turning heads as it made its way up Otago Harbour to its berth,  having sailed from Fiordland, where it had spent several days before the weather deteriorated. Motor yacht Mayan Queen has now left the Marlborough Sounds and is berthed in Wellington. Hopefully those onboard will enjoy a sunny Waitangi Day and weekend in the Capital.

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

February 02, 2012

In 2011 Sevenstar Yacht Transport achieved 23 sailings for loading and discharge in Australia. Sevenstar is on its way exceeding this amount in 2012, already having two sailings bound for Australia into both Newcastle and Brisbane over the past week. Other ports to be called into this year are Fremantle, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

Sevenstar Yacht Transport load and discharge first yachts in Australia in 2012

For 2012 – Sevenstar Yacht Transport has already had its first two sailings for the year bound for Australia calling into both Newcastle and Brisbane bringing a mix of both used and new vessels for local owners and boat brokers. “It’s an interesting time to be working within the marine transport industry” says managing director of Sevenstar Yacht Transport Australia – Mr. Dean Sharples “We’re seeing interest in both imports and exports of yachts with plenty of people taking advantage with the strength of the Australian Dollar.”

Just one and a half hours north from Sydney lies Newcastle City. Newcastle is the largest city within the Hunter Region of NSW and lies at the mouth of the mighty Hunter River. A City that is famous for its heavy industry as well as being one of the major coal export regions within Australia is now adjusting with the increasing culmination of yachts arriving on its doorstep. With the growing interest in yachts, Newcastle has become the gateway to endless possibilities for the yachting community. The region is becoming the embarkation point for those looking to cruise Australia’s shores or for those looking to ship their yacht overseas. This includes those eager to experience new cruising grounds abroad.

The ongoing arrival of Sevenstar Yacht Transport’s vessels, carrying dozens of yachts to and from the USA and Europe has seen this interest grow. Yachts, both power and sail, converge on the seaside city, bringing in work for the local marine industry. The managers at the Newcastle Yacht Club are kept busy with new customers and returning clients alike; all looking for somewhere to berth or engage one of the many local marine services in maintaining their pride and joy.

Sevenstar is currently planning for the next shipment of yachts for the end of February, loading in the USA and a March loading in the Mediterranean. As well as these sailings, the upcoming export loading of yachts from Australia across to New Zealand and back to the USA and Europe is closing in fast. The first of these shipments for the year will see a range of yachts loaded in Newcastle; local Australian builders taking advantage of selling on the international market; charter yachts looking for new opportunities of work in other regions and those looking for a new holiday experiences aboard on their own privately owned vessel. “The strength of the Australian dollar against the Euro and US Dollar is making holidaying on your own yacht in either the Caribbean or Mediterranean much more appealing.” says Dean. “And with the broad range of sailings that Sevenstar offers worldwide, now is a great time to see the world.”

Sevenstar Yacht Transport is the world’s leading provider of yacht transportation services on a lift-on-lift-off basis. A global network of destinations ranging from the familiar to the exotic, and its own fleet of around 125 independent carriers have propelled Sevenstar to the peak of its sector in just more than 25 years. Innovation, flexibility and competitive pricing have been the key to Sevenstar’s success. The companies’ customized approach and unique package of services is only set to increase as nobody else offers such a comprehensive service.

Luxury superyacht Sherakhan’s Caribbean charter special

January 31, 2012

An excellent opportunity has risen for those seeking a luxury charter yacht in the Caribbean that can comfortably accommodate larger parties of guests on board. Not only is charter yacht SHERAKHAN able to provide accommodation for up to 26 guests on board, she is also one of the most impressive superyachts available for charter. If booked before the end of February, superyacht Sherakhan is available for a very competitive rate of US$ 395,000.00 per week plus expenses in the stunning and popular Caribbean charter locations, including the British Virgin Islands (BVI), St Barts, Anguilla, St JohnSt Marteen (St Martin) and many others.

Impressive luxury superyacht SHERAKHAN

Impressive luxury superyacht SHERAKHAN

Sherakhan’s interior styling and layout work beautifully together, giving this unique yacht a feeling of grandeur and comfort. The additional commodities, such as the large glass bottom jacuzzi seating 18 people and themed staterooms make this vessel one of the very best available for charter.

Whether it is the luxury dining room for 22 guests with its immense 7m Atrium bathed in natural light filtered down through the glass bottom Jacuzzi or the joy of standing in the lookout house perched above the sun-deck, a massive 20 metres above the water line, Sherakhan superyacht is truly able to provide her charter guests with a peerless, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Yacht SHERAKHAN's inviting sun deck

Yacht SHERAKHAN's inviting sun deck

Once aboard the luxury charter yacht SHERAKHAN, one is amazed by the beautiful details, the enormous deck areas, astonishing woodwork and the incredible choice of outside furniture. Entering inside, guest will definitely be surprised by the beam of the vessel with the main saloon being about 20 metres long and 9 metres wide. The style of the yacht can be described as cosy and homely.

The main saloon is separated into two main areas; one side features a beautiful large dining table seating 22 guests and on the other side guests can unwind and relax on nice an cosy couches and homely armchairs. It also features enormous vases, a fireplace, a flat screen television, a bar as well as a small podium with a white grand piano. For al fresco dining, there is the outside area on the aft deck with a large dining table.

Impressive dining table aboard luxury yacht SHERAKHAN

Impressive dining table aboard luxury yacht SHERAKHAN

Accommodation aboard mega yacht SHERAKHAN is provided for up to 26 charter guest, in 9 double and 4 twin cabins. All the double beds are kings sized. All suites are equipped with a television, DVD, stereo, mini bar, safe, air-conditioning/heating, a vanity table, a computer point, relaxing chairs, saloon table, a very spacious walk-in closet, bathroom with toilet, bidet, Jacuzzi bath, double basin and shower. Apart from the accommodation for adults, there is a children’s cabin, themed accordingly. In addition there is a security cabin. These cabins are connected with the 2 suites next door, however can be used completely separately.

Al fresco dining aboard Sherakhan superyacht

Al fresco dining aboard Sherakhan superyacht

The 51 square metre master cabin is situated on the Owner’s deck together with two other suites of 31 square metres. This deck is completely outfitted for the Owner with a huge study. Located in the front of the yacht, with an amazing view of the sea, this cabin boasts its own terrace.  There is a large jacuzzi located in the middle of the suite. The special effects of this cabin must be seen to be believed. The outer deck on the Owner’s deck has comfortable chairs, footstools and even table lamps for the people who want to be outside at night and enjoy a good book or just want to sit in silence and enjoy the stars.

Superyacht SHERAKHAN Owner Suite

Superyacht SHERAKHAN Owner Suite

The wheel-house deck houses the Jacuzzi, loads of deck chairs, a bar, a B.B.Q. area, shade and of course the look-out house. Between the 2 funnels, the designers have created a real look-out house. Once you are up there, you will be taken by surprise! The height of this location is 20 meters above the waterline offering a 360° view; for the star watchers this is the ultimate spot….

Superyacht SHERAKHAN Guest Suite

Superyacht SHERAKHAN Guest Suite

Do not miss the opportunity to book the unique and important charter yacht Sherakhan for your next Caribbean holiday. Book by the end of February and charter Sherakhan at a competitive rate of only US$395,000.00  per week plus expenses. Contact our friendly team to help you organise your next unforgettable vacation.

Trinadad and Tobago - the Caribbean

Trinadad and Tobago - the Caribbean

Caribbean is a traditional hot spot for yacht charterers. It is one of the most popular charter location around with beautiful warm wether and crystal clean waters. The beaches are simply amazing, the culture is divers and interesting and perhaps most importantly, Caribbean has a huge selection of crewed yachts, luxury yacht and superyachts, which you can rent. The Caribbean is a natural wonderland with oceans laden with treasures, from tiny beach ridden coral atolls to substantial mountainous islands exuding rich and colourful cultures.

Vibrant Festivals in Barbados - Caribbean

Vibrant Festivals in Barbados - Caribbean

Most visited places around the Caribbean include Antigua, St Barts, Anguilla, St Martin, The British Virgin Islands, The US Virgin Islands, the Grenadines and many more. Follow this link to learn more about this amazing charter destination.

IGY Caribbean Anchor Pass program encourages mega yachts´ cruising in the Caribbean

January 31, 2012

Becoming an increasingly popular and convenient way to cruise the Caribbean all year round, IGY’s Caribbean Anchor Pass (CAP) is the method of choice for a large number of mega yachts looking to save on dockage, while keeping the freedom and flexibility to travel to several islands under one package.

Caribbean Islands - one of the best yacht charter destinations

Caribbean Islands - one of the best yacht charter destinations

Thus far, a number of mega yachts ranging in size from 99 to 154 feet have taken full advantage of the only program that encourages cruising in St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Lucia and Puerto Rico – collectively. Exclusively created for yachts over 80 feet, the CAP program was inspired from mega yacht captains who voiced the need for more flexibility in dockage with a program that allows them to roam the Caribbean throughout the year while enjoying the best-in-class luxury marinas.

Under the pass, yachts travel between 5 different IGY marinas across 4 destinations over the span of a full year, while only paying for 120 days. Anchor Pass holders receive priority reservations at significant savings off the daily dockage rate, all the while maintaining the flexibility to move about the network freely.

Participating marinas in the IGY Caribbean Anchor Pass are:
Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas
The Yacht Club at Isle De Sol, St. Maarten
Simpson Bay Marina, St.  Maarten
Rodney Bay Marina, St, Lucia
Palmas del Mar Yacht Club, Puerto Rico

“Over the last year, the Anchor Pass has grown to be a popular choice among IGY customers. The cost savings are significant and the flexibility of the program follows the very nature of transient mega yachts. We look forward to another successful year with the program as 4 yachts have already renewed their pass from last year.” says EVP of Operations for IGY Marinas, Kenny Jones.

Holders of the Anchor Pass all have positive feedback about the flexibility and convenience of the program, “We are very pleased with the professionalism shown by the staff at IGY Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas.  Our vessel will be traveling south through the Caribbean and on to Curacao and Colombia.  For our program and schedule, the Anchor Pass proved to be a link between the finest marinas in the Caribbean, while at the same time giving the assurance that the service and facilities will exceed those of most other marinas.”

“The IGY Anchor Pass has been a great convenience for us, knowing that we’ll have a dock when we wish, and has also has provided us with peace of mind. It is also wonderful that the marinas offer amenities such as a gym and lounges for our crew. Not only in St. Thomas, we can also count on the same service at other islands and the IGY marinas where we travel.”

“I would recommend the IGY anchor pass for anyone who is looking to spend time down here in the Caribbean. We have explored only Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, and IGY has made it as easy as possible to have a slip lined up and ready for us when we arrive. We found the marinas and staff to be very impressive, with everyone always willing to lend a hand if needed. For us it is an easy decision to choose the Anchor Pass, a choice we will be making again next year when we come back!”

Phuket Boat Show contributes to the growth of Andaman Marine Triangle

January 30, 2012

Phuket Island, belonging to the best yacht charter locations, is at the centre of Asia‘s growing marine leisure industry . It is one of the top five cruising destinations in the world and is the centre of the emerging ‘Andaman Marine Triangle’.

PIMEX 2012 – where luxury boats and lifestyle attract buyers from around the world

PIMEX 2012 – where luxury boats and lifestyle attract buyers from around the world

Consisting of Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi provinces, the Andaman Marine Triangle is home to some of the most stunning sailing grounds in the world, and location of choice for the filming of many international blockbuster movies.

The coastline of the Andaman Marine Triangle, and associated marine leisure industry, is the single largest asset for the area’s tourism industry, the promotion of which is lead by Asia’s largest in-water boat show, the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX). Held 29th March to 1st April 2012, PIMEX is to be held at the award-winning Royal Phuket Marina on the Island’s east coast.

Phuket is the gateway to the Andaman Marine Triangle with more than 200 direct international flights weekly from major tourist markets in Asia and Europe. The three provinces share the same coastline and marine environment, and together have become the marine playground for the rich and famous – the wealthy, the celebrities – and tourists from around the world.

With its long established and well developed infrastructure, Phuket holds a pivotal position in the Andaman Marine Triangle, and is home to four world-class marinas with a capacity of over 750 yachts.

As reported by Channel News Asia, “The amount of private wealth in Asia is estimated to triple to US$16 trillion by 2015, according to Swiss private bank Julius Baer’s annual wealth report done jointly with CLSA.” It is this growth in regional wealth, combined with the desire of boat owners wanting to relocate from traditional cruising grounds, that continues to fuel the growth of the marine leisure industry in the region.

In line with this growth, large-scale marine infrastructure in Phuket continues to develop. Further investment by established Phuket marinas is expected to be over THB500m, and a likely expansion of berth capacity of over 20%, over the next five years.

PIMEX plays an integral role in creating and stimulating demand for marine products and services in Asia. The leading consumer show in Asia, over 5,500 visitors attended the 2011 Show to view the USD100 million of boats on display, and marine and lifestyle offerings.

PMEX connects buyers with sellers in the marine and luxury lifestyle space, and with the largest in-water display in the region, allows potential buyers to view boats first hand. International buyers often then choose to leave their boats in Phuket’s marinas so they can enjoy the facilities and surrounding cruising grounds at their leisure.

The trend of marina growth can be seen expanding from Phuket to the Andaman Marine Triangle, with two new marinas in Krabi – Krabi Boat Lagoon and Krabi River View – and another – Port Takola Marina – in the pipeline, adding almost 400 berths to the triangle when complete.

Over one billion baht of marina infrastructure development is expected in the Andaman Marine Triangle over the next five years.

This bodes well for the continued growth of the region’s marine industry, as marinas in the Asian region are filling up. PIMEX is positioned as a key marketing and promotional tool for Phuket and beyond, helping to position the Andaman Marine Triangle as the marine leisure playground in Asia.

PIMEX showcases Phuket Island, Thailand and the Asia region to the marine leisure world globally. Attracting an international clientelle, organisers confirm markets of growing importance for the show and for the regional marine industry in particular, are Russia and China, with Thai buyers also on the increase.

“We welcomed over 15 visitor nationalities to PIMEX 2011 and of particular interest was the growing numbers of Russians and Chinese. Also, a number of exhibitors noted a growing trend of Thais showing interest in buying into the marine leisure lifestyle,” commented  PIMEX Show Director, Andy Dowden.

PIMEX 2012 exhibitor, Matthew Steinert of Prout International (China), added, “PIMEX is a key consumer-show boat show in Asia and we are looking forward to a successful 2012 Show.”

Targetting High Net Worth Individuals and marine leisure enthusiasts, top international boat brands on display and represented at the Boat Show, include Azimut, Bavaria, Beneteau, Boston Whaler, Elan, Fairline, Feeling, Ferretti Yachts, Formula, Fountaine Pajot, Galeon, Gulf Craft, Hanse, Jeanneau, Majesty, Monterey Boats, Nautitech Catamarans, Nautor Swan, Oryx, Pershing, Prestige Yachts, Princess, Privilege, Prout, Pursuit, Riva, Riviera, Sea Ray, Seawind Catamarans, Selene Ocean Trawler, Silvercraft, Sunseeker, Trawler Catamarans, and Tiara Yachts. Alongside them will be leading marine brands and lifestyle products including luxury real estate and marina developments.

“We are seeing more interest in exhibitors from China, Australia and New Zealand in particular this year. PIMEX has become the boat show in Asia to showcase boats, marine and lifestyle products to a large international audience,” added Dowden.

SEEK Phuket in 2012 supported by Yacht Solutions

January 26, 2012

In 2012, Yacht Solutions will be supporting SEEK Phuket. SEEK was formed in 2011 by a diverse group of passionate and committed civic, NGO and business leaders in Phuket. SEEK stands for “Society, Environment, Economy, Knowledge”, which main effort is to create a sustainable Phuket while enriching lives and communities.

Phuket - a popular yacht charter destination

Phuket - a popular yacht charter destination

SEEK aims to work with the marine business and co-ordinate with Phuket marinas to put a code of conduct in place that incorporates long term recycling, water runoff, water quality testing and bilge tanks dockside. Also to ensure that all pleasure craft should also have a standard code of conduct. Other marine considerations will include pollution Prevention for Marine Debris to Protect the Andaman Sea Coastal Economy, reducing vessel Pollution, restoring and maintaining valuable ocean and coastal habitats and resources, marine life protection and regional sediment management and increasing public awareness of ocean and coastal issues and encouraging individual stewardship.

Phuket Ocean Week is to be held in conjunction with SEEK ECO Festival in July 2012.