Helm#13 by Ensign Media

www.helm-super yacht .com

ON LAND, AT SEA Architecture and marine design FLY AND CRUISE MJETS open up Asia HALF A CENTURY OF SUCCESS CRN celebrates 50 years

ISSUE 13 THIRD QUARTER 2013

FOUR WHEEL INVESTMENTS Classic cars worth collecting SUPERYACHT CENTRAL Phuket’s growing popularity SULTRY SWIMWEAR The Katalina collection

M/Y IMPERIAL PRINCESS

A member of the MoĂŤt Hennessy Louis Vuitton family

High performance Flybridge Motor Yachts and V Class Sports Yachts from 39â&#x20AC;&#x201C;130 feet

Singapore: Thailand: Malaysia: Indonesia:

+65 6271 8804 +66 7623 9739 +60 4626 6992 +62 2 1634 3934

| | | |

singapore@princessyachtssea.com thailand@princessyachtssea.com malaysia@princessyachtssea.com indonesia@princessyachtssea.com

SOUTH EAST ASIA www.princessyachtssea.com

New Yacht Sales Brokerage Charter Management

YAC H T I N G

Dedicated Service

Excellent Value Pre-Loved Yachts

MOONSAND - Sovereign 41m

www.boatlagoonyachting.com

Princess P78MY

Astondoa 102 GLX

Charter available Year: 2012 Hull: Fibreglass/GRP LOA: 24.10 m Cabins: 4+1 Located In:

Price: POA Engine: 2x MTU M94 1624 Top Speed: 34 Sleeps: 8+2 Singapore

Year: 2004 Hull: Fibreglass/GRP LOA: 31.45 m Cabins: 5 Located In:

Price: € 3,200,000 Engine: 2x MTU M94 2000 Top Speed: 28 Sleeps: 10 Phuket, Thailand

Princess P58

Princess P72MY BRAND NEW, ex demo

Central Sales Agents Priced to selll- Built by the famed Sovereign Yachts, Her elegant interior Deus design is truly a work of art with exquisite materials and detail. Her unique

Year: 2004 Hull: Fibreglass/GRP LOA: 41.10 m Cabins: 5 Located In:

Price: $ 9,900,000 Engine: 2x MTU 4000 Top Speed: 21 Sleeps: 10 Phuket, Thailand

Year: 2012 Hull: Fibreglass/GRP LOA: 22.58 m Cabins: 3+1 Located In:

Price: £ 2,090,000 Engine: 2x CAT C32 1622 Top Speed: 36 Sleeps: 6+2 Singapore

Year: 2007 Hull: Fibreglass/GRP LOA: 17.83 m Cabins: 3+1 Located In:

Price: £ 600,000 Engine: 2x Volvo D12 800 Top Speed: 33 Sleeps: 6+2 Singapore

A selection of Asia’s finest Charter Yachts

8 pax $US 46,000 wk/MYBA

25 pax from $US 5,500 day/all incl • • • •

Searay Sundancer 260 (2004) Searay Sundancer 280 (2007) Searay Sundancer 310 (2008)

Sales: Peter Mahony Brokerage:

Phuket

Princess P60 with Gyro Stabilizer - 12 pax $US 6,800 day/all incl

50 pax from $US 4,570 day/all incl 2, 900,000 4,100,000 £ 124,121 € 110,000

+65 9126 8806

• • • •

Princess V42 (2007) Azimut 43S (2009) Sealine Statesman 450 (1994) Apremare 45 (2002)

peter@princessyachtssea.com

| |

Bangkok

Koh Samui

10,900,000 € 459,000 £ 190,000 $ 395,000

• • • •

Princess P 54 (2011) Marquis 56 (2008) Monte Fino 68 (1995) Vitech 72 (1994)

Shi Lin Oh +60 1 9446 6880 Charter: Rico Stapel

Singapore

33,800,000 $ 899,000 $ 725,500 $ 985,000

Info@princessyachtsmalaysia.com

Penang

Jakarta

10-15 SEPTEMBER 2013

— T H E U LT I M AT E YA C H T I N G R E N D E Z -V O U S C

— W

Boat industry professionals, badge order: www.passportnautic.com 5

Join the british polo day around the world As British Cavalry Officers travelled the four corners of the earth, they learnt to play and love polo, spreading the game from Argentina to Australia. Polo is thriving everywhere it is played. British Polo Day celebrates the heritage of the game in each country, reviving some of the old rivalries whilst bridging cultures, in a quintessentially British Day. www.britishpoloday.com British Polo Day China, 13th October 2013 British Polo Day Mexico, 23rd November 2013 British Polo Day India, 14th December 2013 British Polo Day Thailand, February 2014 British Polo Day Australia, February 2014 British Polo Day Abu Dhabi, March 2014 British Polo Day Dubai, March 2014 British Polo Day France, June 2014 British Polo Day United Kingdom, June 2014 British Polo Day Brazil, July 2014 British Polo Day Germany, July 2014 British Polo Day Russia, September 2014 If you would like to attend a British Polo Day, please email: violet@britishpoloday.com 6

British Polo Day Singapore, 28th September 2013

Judging Supervised By:

Supporting Association :

Co-Sponsors:

Media Partners:

Recognising the ever increasing quality of residential properties in Southeast Asia

This year, Ensign Media has added another prestigious event to the calendar of regional property awards events. Recognising the 'best of the best' in the region's real estate, the property awards also provide investors with a valuable benchmark for excellence. Nominations are now open in a wide range of categories To nominate a developer, project, agent, architect or interior designer VISIT www.thailandpropertyawards.com www.philippinespropertyawards.com www.southeastasiapropertyaward.com Or contact jay@ensign-media.com

Official Supplier:

Organised By:

EDITOR’S NOTE Third Quarter 2013, Issue 13

After another round of successful luxury yacht shows in China, Singapore, Indonesia and Phuket, and with superyacht visits to the region reaching new heights, Asia is no longer the next superyacht destination — it is firmly established on the large vessel hit list. The arrival of such luxury vessels is a clear indication that Asia’s appetite for luxury living is getting stronger and there’s a real desire for all the associated indulgences that come with it. Economic growth brings diversity, and lovers of the finer things in life now enjoy an ever increasing range of appealing luxury options, spread across the region. Whether you are looking to drive the latest luxury car, charter a 30-metre yacht or purchase high-end jewellery or fashion items, there’s no shortage of choice for the best of the best. Leisure boating is more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. With global wealth shifting east, luxury bows are pointing in the same direction, and with them comes a whole host of appealing indulgences to match the aspirations of new breed adventurers. Enjoy the voyage...

Jules Kay Managing editor HELM Superyacht Lifestyle Asia Pacific jules@ensign-media.com

FERRETTI 720. NO REASON TO GO HOME.

Reﬁned armony of space. Refined, sporty exterior line guaranteed with continuous glazing right along the main deck that lights up the wide salon. A perfect balance between the classical-contemporary style and a modern taste for interiors, combined with generous spaces, typical of yachts measuring over 70’. a FERRETTIGROUP brand

CONTENTS Third Quarter 2013, Issue 13

Helm Superyacht Lifestyle Asia Pacific is published quarterly by Ensign Media (Singapore) Pte Ltd. Managing Editor Jules Kay – jules@ensign-media.com Editorial Contributors Tina Hsiao Thomas Jones Rebecca Foster Jay Walker Art director Ausanee Dejtanasoontorn SALES Singapore and China Nicholas Lim – nicholas@ensign-media.com Bangkok Waranyoo Siriwat – waranyoo@ensign-media.com Phuket Suphatra Pakdeewiroj – suphatra@ensign-media.com

Chief Executive Officer Terry Blackburn – terry@ensign-media.com Ensign Media Co.Ltd. SINGAPORE : 39 Arab Street#03-01, Singapore 199738. t: +65 6744 6903 f: +65 6744 6910 BANGKOK : 55 Bio House Bldg, 5th Fl., Soi Sukhumvit 39, Klongton Nua, Wattana Bangkok 10110. t: +66 (0) 2662 5195 f: +66 (0) 2662 5198 PHUKET : 23/4 Moo 3, Kwang Road, T.Vichit, A.Muang Phuket, Phuket 83000. t: +66 (0) 7626 4756 f: +66 (0) 7626 3561 www.ensign-media.com HELM Superyacht Lifestyle Asia Pacific magazine is distributed to marinas, 5 star hotels, private clubs and airline business lounges throughout Asia. Major newsstand distribution throughout South East Asia and Hong Kong. While every care has been taken in the production of this publication, the publisher takes no responsibility for any errors, loss or omissions that may occur. Currencies quoted are for information only. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. All rights are reserved.

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THE BREEZE Green marine and Clayton Reeves’ new Aeroboat.

32 SWIMWEAR SELECT The Katalina Collection

68 MARINA FEATURE Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket.

LUXURY LIFESTYLE Must-have accessories for the globally stylish.

AUTO RETURN Investing in classic cars.

74 PROPERTY Designer living in Asia

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SPECIAL FEATURE Architecture meets marine design.

50 YEARS of CRN Superyachts through the decades.

ONSHORE The upscale appeal of a private villa wedding.

FLY TO SAIL MJETS can take you straight to the jetty.

50 VESSELS Top class production and custom yachts.

THE WORD Regional analysis from the industry experts.

AQUATIC GADGETS The latests must-have marine toys.

62 DESTINATION Phuket is a hub for superyachts.

92 SOCIAL Events from around the region.

Tony Nixey M. +66 (0) 8705 66301 info@goboatingthailand.com www.goboatingthailand.com

Go Boating Thailand Co Ltd. RPM Marina, Phuket, Thailand

THE BREEZE

ART AND AERODYNAMICS

Green Marine, a leading BOATYARD in the construction of high performance composite racing and performance cruising yachts, has been selected by yacht designers Claydon Reeves as the official production partner for their extraordinary new Aeroboat.

“With Merlin engines now rare, production will be limited to a maximum of ten”

he arresting Aeroboat design will be brought to life in carbon fibre with wood veneers, powered by the Rolls Royce Merlin V12 engine, which famously powers the Spitfire WWII fighter plane. With a length of 14.6m, the boat combines old-school romance with contemporary technology and although intended as a high-speed day boat for up to seven passengers, it will have a small forward cabin, complete with double berth and bathroom. With Merlin engines now rare, production will be limited to a maximum of ten Aeroboats. Delivering up to 2,100hp and famed for their wonderful, full-throated roar, the engines will be fitted with two-stage exhausts providing a fully-silenced system when in port and the option to bypass when offshore for the full Merlin experience. The fit-out for each boat will be fully customisable to create a series of unique craft. The top speed will be around 50 knots.

James Claydon and Mike Reeves have been behind some of the most exciting concepts at Monaco Yacht Show for the past three years running, and their design concepts are more reminiscent of science fiction than traditional boating. Green Marine, meanwhile, has built a number of racing and performance cruisers, earning a worldwide reputation as a leading specialist in advanced carbon fibre moulding techniques. In recent years, the company has applied its expertise to superyacht hulls of over 40m in length and to a wide variety of composite components. “We are really looking forward to building the Aeroboat,” commented Green Marine technical director Geoff Stock. “Until three years ago, Green Marine worked out of the original Spitfire assembly plant at Woolston in Southampton, so the Merlin connection is part of our own story as well as an important part of the local heritage.”

LUXURY LIFESTYLE EIGHT & BOB www.eightandbob.com A beautifully structured men’s fragrance, with a fascinating story behind its creation. Albert Fouquet was the son of a Parisian aristocrat and perfume connoisseur, and would blend his own perfumes with the assistance of the family butler. He was on summer vacation in 1937, on the French Riviera when he met future president John F Kennedy. JFK was immediately captivated by Fouquet’s fragrance, and persuaded Fouquet to leave a sample of the cologne at the hotel the following morning. The perfumer obliged, and left a sample along with a scathing note, “In this jar, you will find the dash of French glamour that your American personality lacks.” Fouquet received a letter from JFK thanking him, and requested eight more samples adding, “if your production allows, another one for Bob.” Fouquet obliged, and labelled the perfume “Eight&Bob”.

akw

DRAGON WEDGE SANDALS, EMILIO PUCCI www.emiliopucci.com

TUSTING TAW LEATHER TOTE www.tusting.co.uk

The unique designs of Emilio Pucci have been showcased by some of the most influential style icons of the 20th century, including Jackie O, Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor. Pucci’s striking design signature has continued from strength to strength in the 21st century, and these dragon resin and calfskin wedges are no exception to Pucci’s distinctive style. The fierce and intricately carved dragons that intertwine to make up the wedge of the platform not only offer the wearer a significant height boost when they head ashore for cocktail parties, they make an unmistakably striking design statement.

Part of Tusting’s SS13 collection, the Taw leather tote is the perfect summer accessory for day trips ashore on a shopping spree. Available in a choice of cobalt blue, or zesty orange, the bag comes in bold colours, which contrast with the trim. The zipped top closure bag has a single main compartment, and also has an internal slip pocket and zipped security pocket. The medium sized bag is perfect to be carried in the crook of the arm, or held in the hand. Designed to improve with age, the leather will develop a patina over time.

SD 92’ - 110’ - 122’

SL 62’ - 72’ - 82’ - 88’ - 94’ - 104’ - 108’ - 118’

40 Alloy - 42 Exp - 46 Steel - 60 Steel

900 PAIRS OF HANDS, DRIVEN BY A SINGLE PASSION. THIS IS WHAT IT TAKES TO BUILD A SANLORENZO. Choosing a Sanlorenzo means combining elegance and design with the satisfaction of owning a truly unique piece. Because, for over half a century, every Sanlorenzo has been custom-made for its owner, like a tailored suit. Sanlorenzo yachts are built to the very highest standards

because they are made by people who constantly strive for the very best, right down to the smallest detail. e handcrafted tradition, passed down from father to son, and the complete customization of every boat, ensure that no other yacht will ever equal a Sanlorenzo.

Sanlorenzo Thailand & Malaysia Derani Yachts Co. Ltd, Phuket Boat Lagoon 20/37 Moo 2, Thepkrasattri Rd, Phuket 83000, Thailand. Tel. +66 (0) 76-239423 Mob: +66 (0) 818 93 0272 hakan@derani-yachts.com www.sanlorenzoyacht.com

LUXURY LIFESTYLE

INGENIEUR TITANIUM AND DUAL TIME TITANIUM www.iwc.com Technically speaking, these two timepieces are equally well suited to Formula One or superyachting. The new design line in the Ingenieur watch family is easy to identify. Instead of the characteristic bores, the bezels of these distinctive sports watches feature five screws. These secure the bezel firmly to the cases of the Ingenieur Double Chronograph and the Ingenieur Dual Time, which are made of titanium. Titanium is one of the materials IWC first introduced to the watch industry back in the early 1980s and has several outstanding properties. Only half the weight of stainless steel, it is corrosionresistant, antimagnetic and particularly skin-friendly.

GOLD PLATED VARIUS CHINA BLACK FOUNTAIN PEN, CARAN D’ARCHE www.carandache.com When you sign the next multi-million dollar order for a custom superyacht, Caran d’Ache’s China Black fountain pen is a fine tool for the job. Far more than an everyday writing instrument, the techniques used to apply the Chinese laquer draw on thousands of years of expertise and tradition. Few Western manufacturers possess the skill required to prepare and apply the unique sheen of Chinese lacquer. Caran d’Ache has applied the highly guarded techniques of great oriental masters to perfect the decoration of each fountain pen.

m|HEADSET, MOBIADO www.mobiado.com For those who live life in the fast lane, Mobiado’s latest Bluetooth headset is perfect when you need to maintain communication whilst on the go. Part of an internationally recognised luxury mobile phone brand, the m|Headset comes from Mobiado’s Precision collection. The gadget draws its design inspiration from industrial machinery and engineering instruments and is discrete and minimalistic in its appearance. The body of the headset is manufactured from a combination of anodised aircraft aluminium, sapphire crystal and mother of pearl. The m|Headset is available in black or gold mother of pearl.

SPECIAL FEATURE

LAND AHOY!

When compared to the pace of architectural evolution on land, innovation in yacht design has been noticeably languid. In many cases, it is the designers that cross over into marine architecture that make the biggest waves. | By Jody Chapman

“If eyes are meant for seeing, then beauty is its own excuse for being”

he resplendent 99m superyacht Christina O originally started life in 1943 as HMCS Stormont; a Canadian anti-submarine river class frigate. When Greek shipping magnate Aristostle Onassis purchased her as scrap in 1954 and converted her to an opulent oceangoing residence, he initiated a rumbling trend towards superyachting. Despite her age, not much has changed; she still ranks as one of the largest privately owned yachts in the world, and although they are on the small side; she has 18 staterooms and a master suite, huge deck spaces and plenty of living areas, she is white and shiny and does not look out of place in Saint Tropez or Porto Cervo. Compare her to any typical modern superyacht and it is somewhat surprising that sixty years have elapsed since she was launched. As a comparison from other design led industries; the 1950s saw the Jaguar XK120 become the fastest production car in the world and in London, the Royal Festival Hall was opened to the public. Compare these two icons to this generation’s equivalents; The Bugatti Veyron and Renzo Piano’s Shard and it is clear the design evolution is prodigious. Whilst yacht designers at large have been gently toying with the superyacht blueprint, the rest of the world has accelerated. Automotive designers and architects are driven by the desire to create something fresh and unique, whereas yacht design is all too often retrospective. The exceptions are almost exclusively the result of maverick clients or unconventional collaborations of product designers, architects even concept artists into the yacht development process.

MAIN: THE SHARD, LONDON TOP: M/Y CHRISTINA O

SPECIAL FEATURE

FEADSHIP M/Y VENUS

The creativity curve As anyone involved in the build of a private yacht will attest; the final result is largely the embodiment of the client’s ideas, not the designer’s, and only the bravest stand up against owners to push their own creative ethos. Yachts which are built with the clients as the judge and jury will tend to be nostalgic facsimiles of previous yachts, perhaps an sign that the superyacht design industry is still young and insecure and grappling with the concept of permanence. In contrast, the ancient art of architecture is as close as a designer can get to an eternal legacy. The most lauded architects are incandescently confident future-makers, not only do their designs have to look good now, but remain appealing for many generations henceforth. One such self-assured designer is Phillipe Starck. It is with a begrudging respect that he has ruffled feathers within the yachting industry; he is still an outsider despite having designed yachts since his striking Beneteau in 1988. He doesn’t consider himself a yacht designer and speaks publicly about the apathy he has towards the sluggish progress in

the industry. He considers the yachting business an insular, self-congratulatory dinosaur and as a result, says the design standard has evolved too slowly. His keynote speech at the Global Superyacht Forum in 2012 caused many red faces, but only the most leather skinned wouldn’t have been roused by the sentiment; that we can be do better. Starck is not one to rest on his laurels; Wedge Too was conspicuous for its ingenious subtlety, whereas the same cannot be said for the divisive U-boat inspired A. I am not alone in initially finding A’s silhouette, incongruous and uncomfortable, yet having seen her in the flesh last year; she is remarkably svelte and wears her 119m very well. This is the art of design; to manipulate scale and perspective to create a specific aesthetic. Feadship’s Venus is a triumph of engineering design, and at the same time a celebration of science in concert with art. The vision of the owner and irreverence of Starck mandated technical leaps in its construction, such as the use of glass as a structural material, or having the superstructure effectively independent from the hull. Not many shipyards would have

the courage to deviate so far from what has gone before. But that is how icons are created. It’s hard to conceive that when the Sydney Opera House opened in 1973 it was derided publicly for its brashness and deemed the Great Australian White Elephant. Danish architect, Jørn Utzon battled against the New South Wales government for nine years and resigned under a cloud well before the project was completed. It bent every conceivable design and construction tradition; from the use of computer aided design to the pioneering work with pre-cast concrete. Now we look upon it as a wonder of the world. Sometimes, it takes for society to catch up with designers, but it doesn’t necessarily win any popularity contests at the time.

won the first of her two Stirling Prizes). The 62 year old Iraqi-British architect has developed a distinctive style of asymmetrical, geometric fluidity. Her powerful curving forms have graced furniture, fashion and last year shrouded an 8m power boat design. Typically concept boats of this size are very automotive in their approach – however the Z-Boat is distinctively sculptural. Its jet-black facetted form is impossibly futuristic and shares little in common with naval architecture as we recognise it. Whether you appreciate its eccentricity or not, merely looking at it changes your preconceptions of what a small motor boat should look like.

Frustration is the catalyst to innovation and architects often dabble in different fields of design. Some of the most important modern architects such as Zaha Hadid and Sir Norman Foster have contributed to the world of yacht design, usually from a standpoint of being unimpressed with what has gone before. Zaha Hadid is not unfamiliar with shattering preconceptions; she was the first female and first Muslim to win the coveted Prizker Architecture Prize. She created the London 2012 Aquatics Centre and the much lauded MAXXI – National Museum of the 21st Century Arts in Rome (for which she

Z-BOAT Courtesy of Zaha Hadid Architects

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SPECIAL FEATURE

RIVERBOAT Courtesy of Heatherwick Studio YACHTPLUS 40 SIGNATURE SERIES Courtesy of Nigel Young - Foster+Partners

the hulls interlink like a Mobius strip to create a unified and synergistic volume. The organic shape encloses public exhibition spaces, meeting rooms and a bar, where visitors look out rather than forward, as in a conventional river boat. The vessel is under construction at a shipyard in SaintNazaire. Perhaps the most prominent and prolific architect disturbing the tranquil pool of traditional yacht design is Sir Norman Foster. His first yacht Izanami (now Ronin) was truly revolutionary; the 58.5m Lurssen launched in 1993 and looks like a battleship crossed with an insect. The unforgiving angled surfaces were very contentious at the time with yacht purists, although time is revealing her as iconic. Foster & Partners paid little deference to typical ship superstructures and instead used architectural reference to arresting effect.

Although not specifically an architect; Thomas Heatherwick is one of the most exciting designers alive today. His studio is responsible for the Seed Cathedral at Expo, Beijing 2010, the gorgeous Caldron at last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s London Olympics and the new Routemaster bus. He has even been given the daunting moniker as a modern day Leonardo Da Vinci. Heatherwick Studio was given the commission to create a river boat to travel the River Loire between Nantes and Saint Nazaire and symbolise the union of the two towns. The vessel had to be seafaring, so was designed around a conventional catamaran hull. Rather than the superstructure sitting atop,

In 2002 came collaboration with Wally on the 99â&#x20AC;&#x2122; sailing boat Dark Shadow. Shortly afterwards, Foster & Partners forged ahead with their YachtPlus fleet, a fractional ownership concept intended to lower the entry threshold into superyachting. Again, the design is a departure and more reminiscent of a gigantic tuna than a superyacht. The superstructure form is consequence of the requirements for the interior space; placed forward to maximise the provision of outdoor terraces and ensuring that the interiors are open to daylight and give oceanic views. As a result, the comparatively small (41m) yacht boasts accommodation for twelve guests and seven crew. Since YachtPlus, Foster & Partners have also completed the 56m sailing yacht Panthalassa with Ron Holland & Perrini Navi.

Marina developments are an amalgam of architecture and yachting and given Foster & Partners’ impressive portfolio of yacht projects, it’s easy to see why they were awarded the contract to design the prestigious Yacht Club de Monaco. The yacht club is a six storey structure but sits lightly on the reclaimed site as a transition between yacht and building. The glazed facades are complemented by sails, masts and flags. Even the technology borrows from modern sailing yachts; photovoltalics, solar thermal panels and seawater cooling systems. The development extends the city’s existing marina eastwards and accommodates a range of craft, from sailing boats to 100-metre superyachts. Sometimes the influence of marine design on land-based developments is taken out of context, as with the distorted ship atop the three columns of Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. It was intended as homage to the marine trade which runs through the veins of the country’s success. However, given the vast scale and the resulting viewing angle, it appears more like a huge metallic banana. It was

unfortunately and unjustly ranked as the fifth ugliest hotel in the world by the UK’s Telegraph newspaper. Often it takes a while for society to catch up and perhaps Marina Bay Sands is ahead of its time. Lack of confidence on the part of the designer, client or developer can be replaced with nostalgia. The unfortunate result being housing estates which are jelly mould versions of old English villages and yachts which look like clippers or 1950s gin palaces. New client demographics, advances in stabilising technology and progressive naval architecture have meant yachts are increasingly residential and less beholden to a traditional nautical layout; they can, as a result, be more architectural. The impression of travel and seafaring does not have to mean brass fixtures, navy piped cushions and lacquered teak. Yacht designers are increasingly looking landward for their inspiration, whilst land based designers are making inroads to the yacht design clique.

YACHT CLUB MONACO Courtesy of Foster+Partners

SPECIAL FEATURE

MJETS GULFSTREAM V

FLY IN, SAIL ON

Having operated in the aviation and specifically private jet industry for a decade, MJETS has established a reputation of serving its customers with the very latest fleet, the highest level of safety, security and privacy, matched only by its commitment to provide the ultimate in luxury private jet services. | by Tina Hsiao

“The ability to operate into and out of smaller airfields”

s the number of superyachts arriving in Asia increases exponentially, demand is growing from owners looking to connect with their vessels swiftly and comfortably. Private jet and helicopter services offer the most convenient way to reach a vessel and crew that are ready and waiting at a pre-arranged location to start a cruise or exploration voyage. MJETS is one firm that’s well positioned to meet the new demand. It was appointed by Airports of Thailand PCL to operate the first private jet terminal and Fixed Based Operation (FBO) facility in the Kingdom, based at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport. The company has since become the leading provider of executive aviation services in Bangkok, and has aggressively extended provision of these services in other airports in the region.

SPECIAL FEATURE MJETS CITATION X

MJETS offers top level charter services using its own fleet of modern aircraft, with support facilities including an executive lounge, nationwide ground handling and a comprehensive aircraft maintenance and hangar parking service to those who operate their own aircraft.

MJETS GULFSTREAM V

The MJETS private jet fleet currently boasts four aircrafts, each offering luxurious club seating and a full range of onboard amenities. The Cessna Citation X allows clients to enjoy the fastest business jet travel in the world, enabling non-stop missions as far afield as Japan or the Middle East. The Cessna Citation CJ3 and Citation Bravo provide flexibility and comfort for short-haul air charters. Meanwhile, the most recent addition to the fleet is the Gulfstream V, one of the longest range business jets in the sky, able to fly 12 to 13 passengers up to 10,742 km, which includes non-stop flights from Bangkok to London, Moscow or Cape Town. “We cater for a range of different clientele,” explains Simon D’Oyly, MJETS general manager. “From the most successful regional business people and their families, to executive management of blue-chip multi-national enterprises, to wealthy families holidaying in the region or chartering luxury yachts.

An extensive network created using the company’s experience in the region means MJETS can take its customers almost anywhere in the world, even to remote locations favoured by superyachts. The flexibility of tailoring an itinerary helps maximise their customers’ most precious commodity – time. MJETS’ key areas of operation include locations within Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar. Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia are also well frequented routes. “The ability to operate into and out of smaller airfields that are not served by scheduled airlines is one of the main reasons why people charter a private jet,” adds D’Oyly. “If the runway is long enough to land on and if we can obtain the requisite permits then this is simple. The market for yacht charter connecting to or from a private jet around Southeast Asia is really in its infancy, but in many respects this is

an ideal market, more so than Europe – there is so much more choice.” In Thailand, MJETS offers permanent facilities not only in Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport (DMK) but also at Hua Hin Airport and Phuket International Airport (HKT), each with full supervision and ground handling capabilities and both DMK and HKT offering a crew lounge. Technically, private planes are permitted to operate anywhere they can safely land and take off from. However, service providers also need to ensure that insurers will maintain their policies, which generally eliminates war zones such as Afghanistan or countries with UN sanctions in place such as North Korea. “Countries with problems of terrorism, specifically directed at foreigners or instability can be high risk and this would again be viewed unfavourably by MJETS in terms of placing our valued staff at risk,” D’Oyly adds.

MJETS Private Jet Terminal • Immigration and Customs On Site • Executive Lounge • Business and Conference Facilities • Crew Lounge and Shower Facilities • Pilots' Briefing Room • Flight Planning Centre • Baggage Service • Free Wireless Internet Connectivity

www.mjets.com

PLANE AND ISLAND VIEW

AQUATIC GADGETS 1

3 1. JET-SURF jet-surf.com Jetsurf is a high tech motorised surfboard designed and manufactured by MotoGP and Formula One engineers. It’s a monocoque hull made 100 percent from the highest quality carbon fibre. A specially designed two-Stroke 86 cubic centimetre engine provides an amazing 12HP with only 14 kg weight. JetSurf is equipped with an automatic electronic control unit with auto start function and a system for continuous running of the engine. Power to the starter motor and spark plug is supplied by three Lithium Ferron batteries. A digital charger is included for charging these batteries. A patented high tech exhaust system ensures maximum power and reduced noise in a very small space. JetSurf boards have a limited production, as they are manufactured 100 percent by hand. The global production is of only 20 boards per month. 2. HOV POD superyacht-hovercraft.com Imagine that you have voyaged to an exotic location to realise that you cannot reach the shore due to low tide conditions, or shallow water, submerged rocks, coral etc – the Hov Pod Hovercraft tender overcomes such restrictions. Also popular with superyacht owners who seek something a little different for guests to enjoy, whereas boats, RIBs and PWC tend to crash through waves, the Hov Pod has a natural built in air-cushion suspension fitted as standard. It has the ability to glide over the surface of the water to provide a far more comfortable ride, with a typical hover height of around 8 to 9 inches (0.25 metre) above the surface. The ride sensation is rather like levitation, allowing the driver to flit from surface to surface, from land to water and back to land. It can also perform 180 degree turns, or 360 degree spins – literally floating on air. The craft has one simple set of controls which can be mastered in a very short time. The Hov Pod can carry up to four people at a top speed of 40mph over any flat surface doing spins or tricks, or ride in over the top of the surf. The Hov Pod is the ultimate toy for those who want to have a little fun. 3. SEA BREACHER X geminaiwatercrafts.com The Seabreacher X is the latest and most advanced submersible watercraft that Innespace have built to date. This exciting new version is based on the dolphin-inspired Seabreacher J, but has a more aggressive shark-styled body. The X model also steps up the

performance envelope with a 260 hp supercharged engine, propelling the vessel to a top speed of 50mph on the surface and 25mph below. The Seabreacher X can sustain high speed dives and then breach the surface, launching the entire vessel clear out of the water. The new fully vectored thrust system mimics the tail articulation of real aquatic animals like sharks and dolphins. The custom tuned exhaust system also gives the vessel a more throaty growl as it tears across the surface. Some other high tech features include a snorkel mounted video camera that transmits live video to LCD screens for the pilot and passenger during dives, GPS navigation, and on board stereo system with iPod docking. 4. SUPERTRAMP aquaglide.net Built tough to withstand the demands of commercial use, SuperTramps are assembled using hot-air welded 31 oz. fabric-reinforced PVC tubes, double-dip galvanised steel frames, and powder-coated springs. The design includes a SwimStep access platform and anchor bridle. SuperTramp 23 accommodates up to five users at one time. Aquaglide SuperTramps are designed for superior bouncing performance and years of trouble-free service. Since trampoline performance is about focusing a jumper’s energy, a rigid, powerful frame is the only option for serious bouncing. Frameless designs absorb some of the jumper’s energy, reducing jump height. That’s why the SuperTramp model incorporates a rigid steel octan frame. Every trampoline has a ‘sweet spot’ where the spring energy converges. By offsetting the spring energy, the eight-sided octane frames provide a larger sweet spot and better bounce than a round trampoline. 5. FREESTYLE CRUISER SLIDER freestylesldies.com With over 10 years as the world leader in custom inflatables, Freestyle Cruise’s niche is “customisation”, which allows them to fit these slides and other toys perfectly to each vessel, with custom colours and logos.The Freestyle Cruiser from Freestyle slides is the world’s first custom made, sealed-air inflatable water slide for the yachting industry. Six unique models are on offer in all, which can be made individual and built to the exact specifications of a yacht. In addition to the slide Freestyle also produces a custom inflatable pool, which provides a safe environment to swim freely without the risk of floating adrift or concern for jellyfish.

STYLE

BEAUTY AND THE BEACH Katalina Collection offers sophisticated beach lovers a variety of high-quality beachwear in Thailand, Maldives and Malaysia and is expanding throughout Asia, including Singapore, Indonesia, and China. The company brings some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top fashionable and sporty swimwear brands to the region, including Gottex, Sunseeker Swimwear, Gideon Oberson, GTX, INO, Profile, Oakley Swim Ladies, Phax and Italian Parah. This year, Katalina Collection will also launch its own designs in Thailand, aimed at tourists, expatriates, and all modern, sophisticated women. katalinacollection.com

Photographs by | Brent T. Madison GOTTEX CRUISE 2013, ZANZIBAR.

STYLE

GOTTEX CRUISE 2013, RAINBOW GODDESS.

KATALINA COLLECTION 2013, JESS.

STYLE

SUNSEEKER SUMMER 2013, SAVANNA.

KATALINA COLLECTION 2013, ISOBEL.

DRIVE

FERRARI. Jelle vd Wolf / Shutterstock.com

CLASSIC CARS AS AN INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY With a bit of research and an eye for detail, classic cars are a far more stable and tangible asset than many other future planning products can ever claim to be. | by Phil Richardson

“Find a car you like, put it somewhere safe, look after it and then sell it in twenty years time for ten times what you paid for it”

nvestment consultants and purveyors of financial services stalk cyberspace on the look out for some unsuspecting soul to fall prey to their low- to medium- risk (read ‘extremely high risk’) investment opportunities. I know this because of late I have received at least twenty phone calls and double that in emails from such goons enquiring as to whether or not I have watched the gold prices on the news (I never have) and whether or not I would like to buy some of their gold (I never do). So what is the answer then to the future of financial planning? Pensions are clearly worth the square root of nothing, cash will earn more interest under a conifer at the bottom of the garden than it will in the bank. Property is less of a dead cert and nobody in their right mind would buy gold from a stranger on the end of a blocked phone number, surely? Cars, for me, are the only safe place to lodge your loot. How hard can it possibly be? You find a car you like, put it somewhere safe, look after it and then sell it in twenty years time for ten times what you paid for it.

DRIVE

“Quite possibly one of the last examples of a true driving machine.”

ASTON. Max Earey / Shutterstock.com

Take advantage M

y offering for your consideration is the Aston Martin Vantage, one of the last bastions of real driving-experience-based supercars.

There’s no bank of controls and electronic jiggery pokery to deal with. It won’t call your iPod whilst you Twitter your Facebook, and it certainly won’t change gears for you. I also believe that you have to open the doors by hand to get in and out, which is nice. The Vantage is therefore a real car, meant for driving, and with a 4.7 V8 mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox that transfers power to the wide rear wheels, that is exactly what you will do – drive.

Normally when Aston does this to one of their models, classic status is soon achieved and traffic police are kept busy. The news gets better too because now that Ford have no more control of Aston Martin, the overheads are down and that means no more sharing small items such as door handles, gearboxes and brakes with their co-owners. This is a very good thing. For a comparative bad thing, see the Aston Martin DB7. The car itself is, I must say, OK, but the appeal soon wanes somewhat when you start to recognise most parts as seen on your Uncle’s 1998 Ford Mondeo LX. This Aston Martin is quite possibly one of the last examples of a true driving machine. Most that follow will fall foul of gadgets, fail safe equipment, emission restrictions and who knows what next – hybrid engines perhaps? Perish the thought and buy this while you can.

Rally your returns “Whether you’re buying this for an investment or simply to annoy the neighbours, both are very possible”

eing brutally honest, the Lancia was not the first rally sports car that came into my head when I was thinking of something suitable for this category of purchase. I wasn’t thinking about the Subaru Impreza WRX STi or the Ford Focus RS either, although perhaps I should have been. Irrespective, the car that finally won my internal debate was the Lancia Delta

Integrale Evo 2. Perhaps it’s because I own one, coupled with the fact that they are already over 20 years old. Maybe it is just a case of reminding the world of an existing super classic in the making. The only problem with an old Lancia is reliability – or rather, lack of it. So make sure you take care of it well. As an alternative, if there is nothing else to be said about modern Japanese cars, you can’t deny their bullet proof nature is impressive, no matter what is dealt to them. The Mitsubishi Evolution X is certainly no exception, if you want a four wheel drive, turbo charged, Grand Theft Auto replica that you could store away and forget about for a while, but don’t want to pay US$23,000 extra for a Nissan Skyline GT-R (lets face it, can’t be that much, if at all better than the latest offering from Mitsubishi) then the Evo 10 is a pretty safe bet. There are a few downfalls such as its thimble-sized fuel tank and its gearbox which, with only five forward cogs, means that if you did accidentally break the speed limit on a motorway then it could well get very noisy in the cabin (sorry read that as more noisy). Whether you’re buying this for an investment or simply to annoy the neighbours, both are very possible.

MISTUBISHI. Art Konovalov / Shutterstock.com

DRIVE

“ This standard looking estate car will take you, four other occupants and some golf clubbage to 155 mph”

AUDI. Max Earey / Shutterstock.com

Fast enough to make you furious W

ith the Audi RS6 Avant I offer up yet another 4 wheel drive. I was going to write about the BMW M5 Touring, but then I realised that waxing lyrical about BMW M Sport cars is neither new nor particularly interesting – especially when the Audi RS6 Avant is, in fact (quick hide), a much better car.

The problem with buying or considering BMWs as a future classic is twofold, Firstly, you have the difficulty of which of the many models to choose from, and second, you will have had to have owned at least one other BMW in the past, which probably means that you enjoy wearing Formula 1 replica polo shirts, Oakley sunglasses, Puma driving boots and your wife is applying fake tan as you read this article. Audis on the other hand, have only just started to attract the modern day moron. And so far, they cannot understand the difference between an S-Line A6 and an RS6, so my tip is to get in fast before the cover is blown.

With just short of 600bhp available (the Starship Enterprise had 607bhp, I believe) this standard looking estate car will take you, four other occupants and some golf clubbage to 155 mph, which is faster than if you had been pushed out of an aeroplane. It handles the speed and the power well too. In the BMW M5 there’s alot of electronic thinking going on to stop you from killing yourself as you watch the back end coming past the drivers door window, but with the Audi, the thinking has already been done back at the factory – by humans no less, which ensures the carnage you could quite possibly create doesn’t actually happen in the first place. The downside is that prices are likely to stay stable for well looked after examples, which is good news for investment purposes, but bad news really because in reality you will most likely to be unable to leave it in secure, climate controlled storage when all that track day or country road fun awaits behind the blip of a roller shutter or the creak of two oak garage doors.

Aim within your range

nfortunately, even cars are far from a simple investment option. Of course, there are various models to avoid for various reasons, such as the Ferrari 250GTO, for example. Nothing wrong with it at all -- it’s a beautiful machine, but there were only 39 ever built and if they ever do come up for sale then they tend to fetch around US$35,000,000 each. Conversely at the other end of the scale you have the likes of the Morris Marina, which also never comes up for sale because they were rubbish and almost all of them were thankfully crushed many years ago. So taking a fair stance, ignoring the unattainable and the unwanted, what is out there just waiting to offer you good returns long after the online scam artists have retired to Spain to sell timeshare?

It doesn’t matter whether you never had the immense pleasure of taking a Range Rover off road, just driving one down rural roads or through city boroughs is enough to make you smile from ear to ear. Right now you can pick up the diesel models with low miles for bargain prices, but if you really want maximum bang for your buck then seek out the petrol V8 models – I say this not because I dislike diesel engines, even though that is true, but simply due to the fact that to date there are virtually no classic cars on the market with diesel engines. I do not want to be held responsible for someone spending their grandma’s inheritance on a highmile, smoke belching 2.5 DSE oil burner, only to find that in five years time you could double its value by filling up the fuel tank. A Range Rover is quite simply unbeatable in all conditions and in the same way that the early Land Rovers are now fetching good money, despite selling in huge volumes (a big price capping factor when considering classic cars of the future) these modern elegant Birmingham built behemoths, if they are looked after well, dealer serviced and the miles kept down, will certainly provide for a good return in years to come.

RRover. Max Earey / Shutterstock.com

“A Range Rover is quite simply unbeatable in all conditions”

FEATURE CRN PROFILE

A HISTORY OF SUPERYACHT SUCCESS Founded in Ancona, Italy, under the name Costruzioni e Riparazioni Navali – the CRN shipyard this year celebrates its 50th Anniversary. Part of the Ferretti Group since 1999, its extensive and prestigious line-up of vessels are admired globally for their design innovation, flexibility and attention to detail.

“CRN Shipyard launched its 120th megayacht in January of this year”

stablished by Sanzio Nicolini in 1963, the CRN shipyard immediately made its mark on a market that targeted select customers. From the outset, this has been the guiding principle behind CRN and has earned it a position among the world’s top builders of mega yachts. The first line of 23m hulls built were known as “Super Conero”, but were followed by larger, more extravagant vessels, built in co-operation with important designers who helped spread the brand worldwide. CRN yachts are designed by the highly specialised technicians and engineers at CRN Engineering and the Centro Stile CRN, a team that constantly looks for aesthetic, functional and innovative solutions, and collaborates with some of the world’s most important international marine architects and designers. An equally collaborative relationship between the shipyard and its clients contributes to the realisation of seafaring masterpieces where materials such as steel and composite find their maximum expression. In short, exclusive luxury homes at sea.

The early years When Nicolini met Carlo Riva, founder of the legendary Sarnico shipyard, a long and fruitful relationship began that lasted from 1970 until 1978. During this time CRN built eight boats for Riva — six “Marco Polos”, derived from the “Super Conero” line, and two “Vespucci”, one of which became the personal yacht of Carlo Riva. Throughout the seventies, CRN adapted to the needs of a refined clientele, who were mostly interested in megayachts between 28 and 40 metres. The production rate was about two or three very characteristic vessels per year. Some of the most important yachts built during that period were M/Y Bagheera (38m in 1973), M/Y Gazella (31m in 1974), M/Y Moneikos (35m in 1976), M/Y Caribe III (35m in 1979) and M/Y Santa Cruz Tres (36m in 1979). In 1978, CRN built its first megayacht over 40m, Fath Al Khair (47.2m), whose owner was the Emir of Qatar, Al-Thani.

A decade of growth Throughout the eighties, CRN were mainly Greek owners and leading families form countries the Middle East such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar. In order to attract and, above all, retain such particular clients, bespoke services became increasingly important with the owners involved in the build process from before signing the contract and beyond the delivery of the vessel. 1983 was an important year in the history of CRN with the delivery of an innovative vessel for a passionate owner with very personal tastes, Gianni Agnelli, head of Fiat. The M/YF100 was designed by Gerhard Gilgenast an is an unmistakable example of a vessel designed for long voyages journeys in any kind of weather conditions. Its profile moved away from the idea of classic luxury and was described as being “almost monastic”. This is how the first luxury explorer was created. Another milestone year was 1988, which saw the launch of M/Y Azzurra (47m), for American owner Edward Sacks, an American client, which also bears the Gilgenast signature design. The interiors were created by Paola Smith, a leading name in the United States for interior design, and the yacht proved an international success, achieving charter rates of US$100,000 per week.

FEATURE CUSTOM BUILDING

Designed for diversity The 1990s marked a slowdown in superyacht production for CRN as its main client base in the Middle East was dramatically affected by the Gulf War. The owners decided to diversify the shipyard’s activities during the period, extending into refit and the exclusively commercial vessels. Seven CRN superyachts were launched in ten years, all of them significant in terms of their size and design evolution. The list comprised M/Y Awal II (65m in 1990), M/Y Maracunda (50m in 1990), M/Y Lady Anne PB (40m in 1994), M/Y Pegaso (48m in 1996), M/Y Sahab IV (50m in 1997), M/Y Pestifer (50m in 1998) and M/Y Numptia (61m in 2000). The last megayacht to launch in that decade was characterised by its accentuated and defined round bow, designed by CRN in collaboration with the design firm Studio Scanu and acclaimed worldwide. When CRN became part of Ferretti Group in 1999, the first step of the new phase was a project called “Magnifica”, a 43m superyacht launched in 2001, the first hull of what was to become a very successful line. The shipyard in Ancona carried on its expansion in 2001 by joining forces with Custom Line, a company bought in 1996 by the Ferretti Group, specialising in the production of fiberglass maxi-yachts ranging from 26m to 37m.

Nestled in the channel of Phang Nga Bay on the NE coast of Phuket, Yacht Haven Marina offers international facilities with warm Thai services. We aim to make your stay in Phuket truly special. Located on the edge of spectacular Phang Nga Bay Fully serviced 280 berth marina Yacht care-taking and management services Skilled contractors for all your needs Only 15 minutes from international airport and luxury resorts Wireless internet, fitness, and swimming pool

FEATURE M/Y CHOPI CHOPI - 2013

In 2002 CRN reached further strengthened its know-how and production capacity by purchasing the adjacent shipyard Mario Morini, a historical name in ship building. The union between the two shipyards created new, imposing premises covering 80,000 sqm, and the capability of building 15 superyachts at the same time. Innovative vessels followed one after the other, reaching five a year, and the CRN fleet grew rapidly. M/Y Kooilust Mare (2003) and M/Y Saramour (2005) were two 46m vessels inspired by Magnifica and designed by Nuvolari & Lenard. Meanwhile, the concept of fully customised megayachts was also introduced. This led to a successful collaboration with Studio Zuccon International, the first result being the 54m M/Y Ability in 2006. Next came M/Y Givi (60m in 2007), followed by M/Y Maraya (54m in 2007), M/Y Romance (57m in 2008), M/Y Tacanuyaso MS (60m in 2008), M/Y Blue Eyes (60m in 2009), M/Y Mimtee (60m in 2010). Also in 2010, Nuvolari & Lenard once again

joined forces with CRN to build the splendid M/Y Azteca (formerly Clarena II), which at 72m was a new record. In January 2012, the Ferretti Group was acquired by SHIGGruppo Weichai, which invested a total of 374 million euros to become the majority stakeholder. Like all the brands in the group, CRN has maintained its strong brand identity and remains proud of its heritage. The shipyard’s most recent launches include 60m M/Y J’Ade (2012), and the Navetta 43 M/Y Lady Genyr (2013), which once again drew global praise for their interiors and innovative solutions, such as J’Ade’s unique floodable garage for tender launches, a beach area and combined saloon. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in style, CRN Shipyard launched its 120th megayacht in January of this year, the 80m M/Y Chopi Chopi, the largest vessel ever built in its half a century history.

VESSELS

SPECIFICATIONS LOA 26.82m Beam 6.3m Naval architect Princess Yachts Interiors Princess Yachts Engines Twin MTU 12V 2000 M93 (2 x 1822mhp), Twin Caterpillar C32 A (2 x 1825mhp), Twin Caterpillar C32 A (2 x 1925mhp)

www.princessyachts.com/flybridge/ princess-88my

HER ROYAL HIGHNESS

Powerful, agile and gracefully elegant, the new Princess 88 Motor Yacht epitomises everything her royal title would suggest, and thanks to her unique deep-V hull design, which utilises the very latest resin infusion technology, her performance and handling are as efficient and impeccable as her looks.

“The finest in luxury motor yacht design”

ince the launch of their first yacht in 1965, Princess Yachts have been quietly rewriting the rules of luxury cruising to the extent that their name has become synonymous with all that is the finest in luxury motor yacht design. Being part of the Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) family ensures they have become a brand of distinction around the world and their recent expansion into Southeast Asia is proving to be another great success. The layout of the exterior spaces on the Princess 88 offer appealing flexibility when it comes to making the most of life at sea. Wide side decks lead from the large cockpit to a secluded foredeck seating area and the fly bridge provides an exceptional space for relaxing or entertaining with a large dining table, bar, sunbeds and Jacuzzi. On the main deck, an innovative powered balcony, which folds neatly from the starboard side deck, also connects the salon with the anchorage through sliding glass doors. The interior styling and detailing uses custom-designed, hand crafted timber furniture to maximise the space available, while only the finest fabrics and finishes are used throughout. On the main deck the expansive salon and formal dining area are exquisitely furnished and bathed in natural light through large panoramic windows that run down either side. A stairway leads down to the lower deck’s four guest cabins, which include a forward VIP stateroom, a starboard double and twin port cabin, while to the rear is a palatial full beam stateroom, although room layouts can be customised to owners’ specifications. The wheelhouse and galley are separated from the main guest areas with discrete crew access ensuring the utmost privacy.

VESSELS

SPECIFICATIONS LOA 60m Beam 8m Builder or Naval architect Tim Heyward Interior designer Nuvolari Lenard Engines Twin Caterpillar 3512C diesels; 1500 kW

www.amels-holland.com

DUTCH COURAGE

The Amels 199’s bold distinctive style and powerful architecture makes it look like a giant scimitar slicing through the waves, providing dominion over the water for any owner as other craft veers out of the way in awe and envy.

“Overflowing with fresh ideas”

he Dutch, family-owned shipyard has excelled once again in terms of high performance with a limited edition custom yacht that not only promises but overdelivers — and in much less time than a fully customised yacht. The result is a leisure craft built for speed and comfort that is equally at home on transoceanic voyages or sailing coastal waters. The 199 is overflowing with fresh ideas and includes a massive 23m sun deck with Jacuzzi, in addition to the private rooftop deck with a second hot tub that can be accessed from the two forward VIP suites via a private staircase. Ample indoor lounge spaces and outdoor areas provide guests with an abundance of choices for relaxation. There’s even a portable touch-and-go and helipad that can be easily assembled on the top of the bridge, something that’s proving very popular with jet setting clients. The vessel can house up to 14 guests in seven rooms; a full beam master with private living room and office on the main deck, four guest cabins on the lower deck, and the two aforementioned VIP suites on the bridge deck. It’s been built with many green features, not least its low resistance hull, which means greater fuel efficiency, but the motoryacht also re-uses the heat from the Genset, has LED lights throughout, as well as a state of the art sewage treatment plant and is fully insulated. Having placed the tenders in the garage, the foredeck opens up the swimming deck area to create a ‘Beach Club’ room, a 35 sqm space that can be used as a gym, a bar, steam room or whatever an owner requests, and can be entered straight off the swim platform or from inside the boat.

VESSELS

SPECIFICATIONS LOA 29.26m Beam 7.72 Builder or Naval architect Ferretti Interior designer Ferretti Engines MTU 16V 2000 M84 or M93

ITALIAN STYLE TRIUMPHS AGAIN

At a little over 29m in length, the Ferretti 960 is the largest planing pleasure craft ever unleashed by the acclaimed Italian brand – guaranteed to certainly turn heads in any marina or on the open sea – if anyone can catch a glimpse as you speed past at full throttle, that is.

www.ferretti-yachts.com

“The true joy of superyachting comes to play”

he Ferretti 960 is a sight to behold, and although she preserves the slender hull design and waterlines of the previous flagship, the Ferretti 881, thanks to her smaller size she’s much more manageable in enclosed waters. The upside of this new design is that it is not always necessary to have a professional captain on board, saving on cost and adding the pleasure of absolute privacy. The main deck has a large air-conditioned salon, which comprises both living and dining areas, and an al-fresco dining table sits just outside. Both tables seat eight. Oak is the predominant feature throughout the salon and full height windows along the side draw in a pleasant amount of light. An over-sized C-shaped sofa sits in front or a large flat screen TV, and there is a full bar forward. On the transom, the tender hatch doubles as a large sofa when closed, but it is up on the fly deck where the true joy of superyachting comes to play with a Jacuzzi, a sun deck, a third dining table and couches. The master cabin sits forward on the main deck and runs the full beam, while the four guest rooms are found on the lower deck, two of which have convertible twin beds, great for kids. All rooms offer five-star comfort with polished oak accents, well-chosen interior design and furnishings, and are all en-suite. Great care has been taken in soundproofing the cabins from both outside and within, eliminating engine noise from outside and ensuring guests enjoy cosseted privacy in the cabins themselves.

VESSELS SPECIFICATIONS LOA 26.5m Beam 6.3m Builder or Naval architect Exequiel Cano-Lanza Interior designer Chantier Naval Couach Engines 2 x MAN V12 / 1800 HP, 2 x CAT C32 / 1900 HP

www.coauch.com

EXPERIENCE COUNTS

More than 100 years on since from Albert Couach invented the first marine engine in 1897, the French shipbuilders launched their new 2600 FLY in June for final trials before her world premiere unveiling at the Cannes Boat Show in September.

“Easy to handle thanks to innovative Couach technology”

amed for their craftsmanship and attention to the finest of detail Couach yachts are precision made vessels of desire, painstakingly crafted and honed by over 250 specialist pairs of hands, from boat builders to upholsterers, to create excellence on the water. The sleek new 2600 Fly is no exception, and is the perfect expression of what the shipyard does best. It’s a compact and functional yacht for sailing and living the good life on the open ocean. Designed to fill a gap in the 22-28m market, the boat is built entirely of Glass Kevlar fibre, a product more resistant to shocks and scrapes than aluminium or other composite materials, allowing for more aggressive handling, something appealing for a boat with a top speed of 32 knots and a nautical range of 700 nautical miles. Three retractable bow windows in the forward living area offer incomparable brightness and the illusion of having a balcony, something usually seen only on much larger yachts. Three external relaxation areas give guests many options to enjoy their time onboard together or to escape to a quiet space: the back deck, the cockpit or the fly bridge, where a collection of soft couches, sun beds and tables await. The yacht accommodates eight guests in four staterooms on the lower deck, with a full-beam master cabin midships. The other three cabins – a VIP, a double and a twin – are forward and there are two independently accessed cabins for a crew of four. The yacht is easy to handle thanks to innovative Couach technology, which includes zero speed gyroscopic stabilisers, and the contribution of her famous tunnelled V-shaped hull and a central keel, conferring unparalleled stability and steering ease. This means an experienced, hands-on owner would have no need for a captain.

VESSELS SPECIFICATIONS LOA 58.2m Beam 10.2m Builder or Naval architect CRN Engineering, Ancona Interior designer Zuccon International Project + CRN Interior Design Engines 2XMTU 12V4000M61 1500 kW @1800rpm

www.crn-yacht.com

OCEAN JEWEL

Forged from aluminium, steel and Italian know-how, and pushing 60m in length, the four-deck J’ade megayacht is a behemoth of style and pleasure that can carry up to 10 passengers across the Seven Seas to the Four Corners of the Earth in the lap of abject luxury.

’ade has an aggressive and captivating design with a style that is a blend of the classic and the modern, incorporating wood, leather, marble and metals which are perfectly complemented by the natural and artificial lighting in the internal spaces. The name of the vessel is no coincidence either, with much of the interior and exterior surfaces and decor presented in varying shades of the most regal of greens. Accommodation is in the form of an owner’s suite with a full beam bathroom on the front of the upper deck, and four VIP rooms on the lower deck, each with panoramic windows and all with en-suites. The salon is vast and inviting with a proliferation of comfortable couches and armchairs, all by Baxter, as well as a baby grand piano, and a dining area and bar with a large built-in aquarium. Outside on the deck spaces there are plenty more dining options, sofas and sun beds, as well as a swimming pool on the upper sun deck, whose teak surface stretches from stern to bow. A crystal lift links all the floors and there is even a Turkish hammam steam room and a private gym indoors. Many of CRN’s signature touches grace the design of M/Y J’ade, from the balcony on the master suite, to the panoramic windows in the salon bringing guests closer to the ocean. The beach club is located inside the stern hatch at water level, and for the first time on a CRN superyacht, a floodable garage has been added for easy access to the tender.

VESSELS

SPECIFICATIONS LOA 58.2m Beam 10.2m Builder or Naval architect CRN Engineering, Ancona Interior designer Zuccon International Project + CRN Interior Design Engines 2XMTU 12V4000M61 1500 kW @1800rpm

www.crn-yacht.com

A MEDITERRANEAN CLASSIC M/Y Matahari is one of the most spacious 52 metre superyachts on the market today, designed for worldwide cruising or as an appealing charter vessel.

illed to the gunnels with every onboard luxury imaginable, Matahari’s layout with cabins forward and aft, offers the perfect charter combination for two large families to enjoy time on board with a combination of communal time and total privacy. The four-deck vessel is built for entertaining and comfortably sleeps 14 in seven en-suite staterooms comprising a VIP room, five doubles and an ultra-luxurious master suite of generous proportions, with twin bathrooms. She has myriad relaxation areas, both indoors and out, including a 14-seat private dining room with adjustable mood lighting, and a spacious saloon, which can be fully air-conditioned or have all side windows removed for breeze ventilation, and opens up to the aft deck. Inside are a Steinway baby grand piano and a mesmerising, full-wall freshwater aquarium. A fully enclosed, 12-seat octagonal bar sits aft, perfect for evening revelry. The sleeping accommodation is on the lower deck and accessed via twin spiral staircases leading off the aft deck. Mid-deck there’s a gym, hydrotherapy/massage room, office and a full width sky lounge. On the bridge deck, the pilot house features portable wing controls that can also be set up aft for Mediterranean mooring, while up top on the sun deck there’s a Jacuzzi with a shaded bar, alfresco dining options and a full complement of water toys, including a 25’ Center Console Sportfisherman, a 17’ Novurania Rib and two jet skis. Having recently completed three years of fully booked seasons in the Mediterranean, Hong Kong, Maldives and around Phuket, M/Y Matahari underwent considerable engineering work and is now ready to delight a new owner. The current owner is very motivated to sell and has drastically reduced the price by 2 million dollars.

DESTINATION

Phuket has established itself not only as Thailand’s premier yachting destination, but also one of the most popular cruising locations in Asia, particularly for large vessels. | By Linda Cartlidge

ith Europe still dominating the on-water leisure scene during its summer season, the main question superyacht owners and captains ask when planning the rest of the year is: “What’s the difference between Caribbean cruising and the waters in Southeast Asia?” Gordon Fernandes, general manager of Asia Pacific Superyachts Phuket & Myanmar, has one answer. “The main difference is that we don’t have the high winds and big swells that you get in the Caribbean,” he says, referring specifically to Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Such advantages have been catching the attention of

superyacht owners and captains for a number of years now, with Phuket becoming a favoured port of call for superyachts. This has prompted improvements to the island’s marine infrastructure and also seen the emergence of a host of onshore services for yacht owners and their crew that includes everything from practical amenities such as dockside electricity and fresh water hook ups to agents that can handle customs and immigration procedures. “Yachts have the best of both worlds on Phuket”, adds Fernandes. “You can anchor in a secluded bay and enjoy cultural experiences during the day. There’s also a sophisticated nightlife of high-end beach clubs on offer on

ASIA SUPERYACHT RENDEZVOUS, PHUKET

Phuket in the evening. Visitors can enjoy sports, historical and cultural tours and great Thai food, followed by a relaxing sundowner on a white sandy beach. Or head up to Myanmar and choose from hundreds of deserted beaches to relax and make your own party.â&#x20AC;? Vessels can take advantage of a wealth of cruising options from Phuket, while also making the most of what is also a culturally fascinating region. The surrounding seas provide a wealth of fantastic yachting opportunities in a safe environment and during the cruising season that runs from November to April, owners and their guests can expect endless days of blue sky and favourable northeasterly winds.

Areas such as Phang Nga Bay, with over 100 islands to explore, provide year round sheltered cruising to nearby islands. The endless coves and bays offer surrounding white sand and privacy, with plenty of delightful hidden spots to relax and enjoy as you look forward to the next adventure just around the headland. For this reason, the Andaman Sea is fast becoming one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier destinations for superyacht visitors, which also means fabulous charter opportunities. Close cruising choices from Phuket include the Racha Islands and Naka Islands, while the tiny Kai Island is a renowned (though often busy) snorkelling spot. Larger

DESTINATION PHANG NGA BAY, THAILAND

ANDAMAN ISLANDS, NARCONDAM

vessels, however, tend to strike out for more distant archipelagoes, and Phuket is the perfect base for voyages to the Similan Islands, Myanmar’s Mergui Archipelago or even India’s pristine, volcanic Andaman islands. “Superyacht owners are particularly impressed with the Similan and Surin Islands as you can enjoy 30 plus feet of visibility around the lovely uninhabited islets there,” says Fernandes. “And Myanmar’s abundance of lush, tropical deserted islands also makes for some unique and remote cruising.” Many captains return to Europe from Southeast Asia with tales of having visited these pristine islands and remark on the quietly beautiful anchorages, all commonplace in Thailand, Myanmar and The Andamans. Such reports have encouraged more and more owners to head for Phuket every year so that they and their guests can enjoy world-class cruising, swimming, diving and snorkelling – untroubled by crowded bays. “Word of mouth among captains sharing down the pipeline has been a prime motivator,” says Captain Charlie Dwyer of the S/Y Yanneke Too, co-organiser of the annual Asia Superyacht Rendezvous.

When superyachts frequent any destination in the world, demand swiftly increases for professional and experienced agents on the ground to ensure smooth and trouble-free cruising. Captains know in advance that due to the formalities required for entering countries like Thailand and Myanmar, the paperwork is best handled with the help of an agent, otherwise boats can expect a lengthy bureaucratic check-in process . “We are a very busy private yacht that operates worldwide,” says the captain of 58m M/Y Annaeva. “Our agents [Gordon Fernandes and Toby Koehler] were instrumental in taking care of Annaeva while we cruised this beautiful part of the world. Their attention to detail, good advice and professional attitude made even our most difficult and complicated plans come together flawlessly. The complexities of this region were expertly taken care of.” Although local government offices can be strapped with red tape, agents can help owners bypass the bureaucracy and the queues. They also know the nuances of local procedures and can therefore troubleshoot problems in advance of a yacht’s arrival. “There are a lot of rules and regulations, but in general

the local officials welcome superyachts,” says Fernandes. “Crews are given visas on arrival, but for longer stays it’s recommended that a visa is obtained before the crew arrives. In Thailand, most nationalities also get a visa on arrival at the airport.” Visitors looking to charter or even buy a boat in Thailand also have a wealth of options on Phuket. Princess Yachts Thailand, based at Boat Lagoon Marina, offers a full range of luxury new and used boat sales with additional owner services and yacht management, as well as a dedicated charter yacht division. Simpson Marine also operates out of Phuket, representing top global brands such as Azimut, Lagoon and Beneteau Yachts. Meanwhile, Lee Marine’s range of new boats are amongst the world’s best and most respected brands on the market, including respected Italian brands like Ferretti, Riva and Pershing, and even customised explorer yachts by Cantiere Delle Mare. In the past few years, the services for superyachts arriving to Phuket have improved considerably. The most obvious upgrades include better marina facilities and berth expansion, better provision supplies and suppliers, better parts availability and a higher quality of sub-contractors for engineering and maintenance work. PRINCESS YACHTS

All of these improvements have inspired a dramatic increase M/Y ANNAVEA

DESTINATION

YACHT HAVEN MARINA, PHUKET

ASIA SUPERYACHT RENDEZVOUS, PHUKET

in the number of superyachts visiting the island with some 55 vessels over 30m reported at Yacht Haven Marina alone during the last high season. The marine infrastructure in Southeast Asia and specifically on Phuket is expanding at pace with marina extensions planned, along with more onshore services for owners and their crew. Ferenandes notes that here are also more engineering companies based in the region and most of the big brand names like CAT, MTU, Northern Lights can be serviced. “Overall, with time, most projects can be completed,” he advises. Other developments also support the growth in leisure yachting around Phuket. More luxury resorts, villas and apartments have been added in recent years providing attractive accommodation options ashore and Phuket airport is being expand to cope with continually growing schedule of direct international flights, which already includes arrivals from destinations such as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore and Frankfurt. Captains and owners also learn about the great cruising opportunities around Phuket thanks to the island’s popular

regattas and sailing events. The Phuket King’s Cup is the largest event on the Asian Yachting Grand Prix circuit, while The Bay Regatta in February and Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Race Week in July also attract large numbers of international entries. The prestigious Asia Superyacht Rendezvous held every December is supported by Feadship and last year welcomed 10 spectacular superyachts, including three Feadship vessels, M/Y Callisto, M/Y Samax and M/Y Helix. Royal Huisman’s award-winning sailing vessel S/Y Twizzle, two Indonesian Phinisi’s, as well as S/Y Yanneke Too, S/Y Asia and S/Y Shamoun and M/Y Maverick. “The social gathering brings attending superyachts together for festivities and fun and many of the boats stay on for an extended cruising holiday”, adds Captain Dwyer. “We specifically design the programme to make sure all the invited participants can relax and enjoy themselves. We respect the yacht owners’ privacy, and there’s no hassle or people telling them what to do. It’s all about having a good time and bringing together some fantastic boats for a few days of fun in a wonderful location.”

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Book MY Olympia 76’ for a private 1 Day Charter and enjoy 2 Complimentary Room Nights at Twinpalms Phuket Resort (from THB 140,000) Book MY Olympia 76’ for a private 2 Days/1 Night Charter and enjoy 4 Complimentary Room Nights at Twinpalms Phuket Resort (from THB 228,100).

Email us at book@andaman-cruises.com for further information.

MARINA FEATURE SUNRISE AT AO PO GRAND MARINA

GATEWAY TO THE ANDAMAN

Home to an ever expanding choice of modern, full service marinas, Phuket has established itself as Southeast Asia’s premiere yachting hub. Ao Po Grand Marina is one exclusive marina complex that is quickly becoming a major player in the island’s burgeoning luxury boating scene. | By Adrian Ho

“Ao Po Grand Marina is built to accommodate large vessels. The entry to the marina is 50m wide, and the boat ramps have launching and haul-out facilities”

e has constructed buildings, roads, a harbour and even an airport, but Thai builder Premchai Karnasuta, a fishing and scuba diving enthusiast, had always wanted to build a marina. With the help of his friend Kasem Chiarasomboon, he found a 150 rai (approximately 59 acre) piece of land in the northeast of Phuket, sitting at the gateway to Phang Nga Bay. When Karnasuta learned that the water in the adjoining bay was deep enough, he realised that he had found the perfect location to build his marina. The property was purchased and planning for the project followed quickly thereafter. In 2006, construction started and in 2008, the Ao Po Grand Marina opened for business.

Location and facilities For many, sailing is not just a hobby, it also becomes a way of life. Once the urge takes hold, owners want to be able to drop everything and head off on their yacht without delays or obstacles. For this reason, the 200-berth facility at Ao Po offers 24-hour marina access and,conveniently, has no tidal restrictions. That means berth holders can sail at any time of the day – at any time of the year. As of June when this article when to press, over 200 vessels ranging from smaller sailing craft to superyachts were docked at Ao Po, proving that open access is well appreciated.

TOP: MANAGING DIRECTOR KASEM CHIARASOMBOON. BOTTOM: MARINA MANAGER DERRICK VAN DEVENTER.

“It’s low season now but our marina is full,” explains marina manager Derrick van Deventer. “The temperature is still warm and there’s low traffic. The condition’s are still excellent for sailing. That’s the case 12 months in a year, and it’s what makes Ao Po so attractive.” Adding to the ease of movement, the marina features extra-wide pontoon walkways large enough to allow golf carts to ferry owners and their crew to the boats. The berths can accommodate vessels ranging from 10m up to over 80m, and each has access to metered water and electricity, as well as free wifi. A security system is also in place covering the entire marina and the boatyard. Ao Po Grand Marina is also built to accommodate large vessels. The entry to the marina is 50m wide and a hard stand with 47T Roodberg hydraulic trailer is also available for larger yachts, allowing them to be slipped as opposed to lifted when being

MARINA FEATURE

AO PO GRAND MARINA

transported. Meanwhile, the boat ramps have launching and haul-out facilities for trailerable boats. Many of the berth holders at Ao Po Marina are repeat visitors from Europe, Russia and Australia. Van Deventer says most of them keep coming back due to its convenient location, warm weather conditions and modern facilities. And as more people discover Ao Po and get excited about its ongoing expansion project—which will see the creation of a larger residential and commercial community— he is confident that the client list will continue to grow. “Ours is one of the best cruising grounds in Asia,” says Khun Chiarasomboon, who is the managing director of Ao Po Grand Marina. “We are, after all, at the gateway of Phang Nga Bay, and from here it is easy to make day trips to Racha Islands, Phi phi Islands, Krabi, Surin Islands and the Indian Andaman Islands. You can also sail away to Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, wherever you want to go.” Super-sized yachting Recent years have seen a succession of increasingly large vessels arrive on Phuket and the list of bookings at the marinas for the next cruising season suggest the trend is set to continue. “Eight years ago, a 60-foot boat was already considered big, but now, an 80-foot yacht has become the norm,” van Deventer explains. “As the number of boats coming in increases yearly, the size of the

MARINA FEATURE

TOP AND BOTTOM: MARINA LIVING DEVELOPMENT

vessels is also increasing.” Some notable superyachts that have moored at Ao Po Marina include M/Y Archimedes, S/Y Twizzle, M/Y Mayan Queen, M/Y Elandess, M/Y Latitude, M/Y Meridian and S/Y Vertigo. In the latter half of this year, eight new superyachts from Europe are already scheduled to arrive. Apart from the ideal sailing conditions and the international boating events, what also attracts mariners to Phuket is the availability of quality yachting services—from simple repairs, painting, carpentry, metal and engineering work to marine equipment, crewing and charter services. “Thai workmanship is best in Phuket,” adds van Deventer. “Every marine service imaginable is here and the prices are very competitive. We actually have Malaysian and Indonesian clients come here just to have their boats serviced.”

To help drive such services, Chiarasomboon says there is increasing support for the boating industry coming from the local business community, but it is not just the local companies that are gaining ground. International firms have also been making their presence felt around the island. In fact, established charter companies like Sunsail and The Moorings have already set up shop at Ao Po, choosing the marina as a location for their main offices in Asia. The island also hosts four internationally recognised regattas each year, as well as the annual Phuket International Boat Show. A marina lifestyle community An ideally situated modern marina would not be complete if it only catered to visiting vessels. Demand for marina-based services and residences has been on the increase in destinations like Phuket and the owners of Ao Po Grand Marina are addressing this demand by building luxurious private residences for sailing enthusiasts who wish to live close to their boats. Construction has already started on Ao Po Marina Living, an exclusive four-storey project that will house 28 luxury residences with a maximum of four units per floor. The one- to four-bedroom units will have a private access elevator with integrated state-ofthe-art access control and a video surveillance security system. The two- to four-bedroom units will feature a foyer, a crossair ventilation system and spacious double-sided terraces. The interiors of the residences will also boast uniquely modern Aseana designs. In addition to the residences, commercial establishments such as restaurants, retail outlets and offices for marine-related businesses will also be added as part of the Ao Po community. A clubhouse, fitness centre, locker rooms, a swimming pool, plus a 5,000 sqm man-made lagoon will also be part of the amenities available for

residents and berth holders. Finally, an 80-room boutique hotel is in the offing, although the full details have to been finalised. Marina Living will be launched by the end of the year, but Chiarasomboon says that even before the official launch, 50 percent of the residences have been sold. “There is great interest in our project,” he says. “It’s a good indication that the marina industry here is only getting bigger and stronger. We’re creating jobs and providing homes for future residents, which is all good for Phuket’s economy.”

Operating hours: Marina access: Coordinates: Radio frequency: Number of berths: Berth-side amenities: Maximum draft: Fuel: Security: Pilot services: Reservation services: Charter services: Other facilities:

08:00 - 17:00 hrs, 7 days a week 24 hours with no tidal restrictions Lat 08 06 075 N / Lon 98 26 739 E VHF radio watch channel 69 (from 08:00 - 24:00 hrs) 200 (for boat lengths up to 80+ meters) Electric power supply (single phase 16A, 32A, 63A, 25A and 200A), metered water, free wifi access. 2-7 metres Shell 95 gasohol, Shell V-power diesel, standard and high capacity fuel pump (up to 400 litres / minute) 24-hour security, CCTV cameras in the entire marina as well as the boat yard. Available Available Sunsail, The Moorings, Five Star Sea Cruises, Tawan Cruises, Andaman Cruises, Thai Luxury Charters Extra wide pontoon walkways (4.6m), transportation with golf buggies and hand trolleys, various berth sizes and marina entry (50m), boat ramp with launching facilities for trailerable boats, haul-out facilities, hardstand with 47T Roodberg hydraulic trailer.

PROPERTY

DESIGNER LIVING IN ASIA

Top quality architecture and design excellence are increasingly applied to Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contemporary luxury homes with unique new properties continuously being built in countries across the region. Numerous signature homes are located close to the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tropical coasts and oceans, and their architecture and interiors offer a glimpse of the innovative approaches being applied to upscale living in the Asia Pacific.

Celadon, Koh Samui, Thailand

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Contemporary luxury homes in Asia are raising the bar in terms of designâ&#x20AC;?

Situated on a remote hillside overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Celadon villa by GFAB Architects is a holiday home built for an English family on the west coast of Koh Samui in Thailand. The property has already garnered great interest for its innovative architecture, awe-inspiring location and meticulous adherence to ecofriendly design.

PROPERTY

Sandy Island, Sentosa Cove, Singapore Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sentosa Cove is one of Southeast Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious waterfront addresses and the 18 individually designed villas at Sandy Island are considered the ultimate in luxurious exclusivity. Designed by legendary Italian architect Claudio Silvestrin, the award winning residences are characterised by monolithic facades, entirely clad in top quality imported stone, with four floors of luxurious interior living space carefully designed to blend with the lush surroundings.

W Residences, Sentosa Cove, Singapore Also located on Sentosa Cove, The Residences at W Singapore have created quite a buzz with their blend of branded chic, serviced convenience and quayside amenities. Designed by WATG, a pioneer in global innovative architecture, the concept was to relate the buildings to the surrounding water and views which include luxury craft moored in the nearby One 15 Marina.

PROPERTY

Renovated Mansion, Penang, Malaysia Perched 400 ft up on one of the only plateaus on a prominent hill overlooking Penang sits an impressive 9,000 sq ft, privately renovated mansion. Laid out over three floors, the house spans an impressive 3,000 sq ft on each level and is furnished with rare antique collections picked up over the years by the owners in countries such as Myanmar, Japan and China.

Ribbon House, Hong Kong Island A privately owned residence facing the South China Sea and recently refurbished by boutique Hong Kong based design studio FAK3. The main design feature is the staircase in the centre of the home, which penetrates the entire four storey structure, creating an open transition through each floor. The rooms are fluid, with spaces flowing into one another organically.

PROPERTY

Aqua Boracay, Philippines The first branded resort residence on the tropical island of Boracay in the Philippines, Aqua Boracay is designed by celebrated global residential and hotel design company, yoo. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors create a subtle transition between the stunning open-plan living and dining areas and the expansive wrap around terraces offering sweeping ocean views.

Bespoke designs on Bali Bali is home to some of the most unique and attractive private villas in Asia, particularly in terms of their interior design. Moroccan-born designer Zohra Boukhari grew up in Belgium, but moved to Bali 18 years ago and has since applied here cross cultural inspirations to the interiors of numerous hotels and private villas on the island.

ONSHORE

GET ME TO THE BEACH ON TIME

In top tropical hotspots such as Phuket, Koh Samui and Bali, private villas not only provide luxury accommodation for holidaymakers, but are increasingly sought after as upscale destination wedding venues. | By Tina Hsiao

estination weddings are now high on many would-be couples’ wish lists as they offer the chance to combine a dream holiday with a perfect day. The luxury, convenience and multi-dimensional spaces offered by private rental villas have made them popular venues in countries where a beachside or seaview ceremony can be easily arranged. The growth in villa weddings across may even extend to superyachts as people search for ever more exclusive and personalised settings to tie the knot. For now, however, it’s luxury holiday homes that draw most interest for those in search top tier celebrations. “Around 30 percent of our business now from weddings,” says Wayne Hue, director of sales and marketing at Luxury Villas and Homes (LVH), a villa rental and management company with a portfolio spanning Phuket, Koh Samui, and Bali. In fact, thanks in part to the wedding boost, LVH’s Phuket villas have brought an impressive return on investment for their owners in recent years. “Even though we haven’t had that long to compare, for our Phuket villas we’ve seen between 30 to 40 percent in rental returns over the past two years,” adds Hue.

“What a couple can plan into the day is endless” The Signature Weddings, a sister company of LVH, was set up specifically to offer bespoke villa weddings on Koh Samui and Phuket, with a team of event planners in place to arrange everything from celebrants and Thai dancers to floral decorations and fireworks. Wedding organisers remove the hassle of the tedious legwork and offer on-the-ground contacts and connections, but in mature markets such as Phuket, couples can also opt to do this themselves, with caterers, hair and makeup artists, florists, and photographers on the island all on the top of their game. Looking at the bottom line, at the end of the day with all expenses factored in, an wedding held at a luxury villa versus a comparable five star hotel would cost the same pretty penny. But as with any events, it’s the small things that count -- the myriad unsung intangible factors that add up to a smooth-running day to remember.

Regardless of the chosen destination for the big day, villa weddings are increasingly becoming the popular choice for a number of reasons: Totality and privacy: With the whole villa catering exclusively to the one event, the couple can make a day (or a week) of the wedding. Guests can arrive whenever they wish to make full use of the villa facilities, and the bride and groom can enjoy pre- and post-ceremony celebrations with no set schedule or open bar hours to adhere to. Likewise, as a private venue, couples and their guests need not worry about strangers loitering about the buffet line or splashing around in the swimming pool. Inspiring surroundings: A wedding villa is in essence a home, which means all the facilities and amenities are in place to entertain guests when the couple canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. Larger villas are often equipped with an AV room to chill out in, a large lounge to gather in, a games room for the teenage guests, private pool, landscaped gardens, and stunning views, be it mountain, coast or even right from the beach. Depending on how a couple wants their wedding album to be themed, the chances are there is a villa offering the exact backdrop to the photographic memories. Flexibility: With no one other than invited guests, what a couple can plan into the day is endless, be it professional spa therapists to offer

Villa Tievoli One of seven villas in the gated Sava estate, situated 20 minutes north of Phuket International Airport on Natai Beach, Villa Tievoli is a beachfront wedding dream. The sprawling villa features six double bedrooms, four of which have en-suite bathrooms with another bathroom shared between two pool-level bedrooms. At the heart of the villa is a double-height living room with oversized sliding glass panels that look out over the length of the infinity pool and beach beyond. Indoors, a large television room features a large plasma TV with 3D viewing options, and on the other side, a billiards table enroute to the fully-equipped kitchen.

poolside massages, a game of volleyball set up on the lawn, or seaside mah-jong frivolities into the early hours of the morning. Dining options are also endless, be it a D-I-Y barbecue feast on the beach or a formal sit-down dinner in the comforts of the air-conditioned indoors. No gathering is complete with drinks, which couples can source at wholesale prices without having to cringe at corkage fees. Child-friendly facilities: No offspring-towing guests will be able to have fun unless their children are safe and kept entertained. With a villa, parents can safely leave their children in the AV room to watch a DVD, or let them frolic in the pool or garden, safe in the knowledge that there are no random strangers around. There is also always the possibility of arranging for a babysitter, again keeping the children in proximity to the watchful eyes of parents. Should the after party drag out longer than the kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; eyes can stay open, bedrooms and living room sofas provide perfect temporary nap spots so the adults can continue enjoying the party. Proximity to the ceremony: Especially with larger hotels, getting from the designated hair and makeup room to the actual ceremony might be a bit of a trek, which in a tropical destination, can be even worse than it sounds. With everything contained within a villa, the couple can charter their own short path to the altar, again, without worrying about prying eyes.

Flanking the 25 metre-long swimming pool are three bedrooms on one side. On the other, a glass windowenclosed dining room arm connected to the kitchen can be closed off or opened to flow out onto the outdoor living area. A built-in barbecue, long bar counter, and plenty of sofas and seating comprise the outdoor entertainment area. An unobstructive awning is stretched across the entire terrace area in case of tropical showers. Between the swimming pool and the beach is a wellmanicured lawn, with an open air sala gazebo off to one corner. Fronting the villa is a 200 metre stretch of golden sand providing literal front row seats to the sun setting under the Andaman waters right in front of the villa. With a choice of indoor and outdoor entertainment space, be it poolside, on the lawn, or right on the beach, Villa Tievoli is ideal for weddings and parties of up to 150 guests. Multiple villas within the estate can also be rented out for larger gatherings.

THE WORD

THE SUPERYACHT INDUSTRY IN INDONESIA

From the humble beginnings of a handful of very adventurous visiting Superyachts, the numbers have grown steadily to an expected total surpassing 70 visitors this year. They say that imitation is the purest form of flattery – we are very flattered by the opening of other yacht agencies in recent years.

“Owners and Crew now feel confident when exploring this vast archipelago”

one month vacation during 2005 persuaded me to drop anchor for good in Bali, which is testament to this island’s magical draw. Contact from captain friends and acquaintances about the lack of superyacht facilities and agency support birthed Indo Yacht Support / Yacht Support Group. The industry has changed dramatically in just eight years. Most notably, the signing of a Presidential Regulation (PERPRES 79, Tahun 2011) that eases yacht entry, domestic movement, visa and customs restrictions. IYS have moved from lobbying role to assisting the MONEV committee ensure correct implementation as an ongoing process; with on-line systems coming soon. Increasing traffic has brought more support services and opened up many remote corners of the country. The first dedicated superyacht terminal (known as Big Boat Quay)

has opened in Bali; a publicprivate partnership between the Port Authority and private stakeholders. A number of 30 meter sized yachts have been purchased and are now based locally. All these developments add to the economic and social benefits that established tourist destinations and remote coastal communities gain from superyacht visits. Owners and crew now feel confident when exploring this vast archipelago, as even previously uncharted waters are within well supported reach. The above and below water sights are astounding; cultural and historical immersion opportunities abound. Hotspot Area Each issue I will feature one area that is happening and popular. The first place (in no particular order) is Cenderawasih Bay; home of the whale shark experience. Yachts enter this huge bay on the northern coast of Irian Jaya’s “Birds Head” peninsula either at Manokwari (when coming from Raja Ampat) or Biak (if coming from Palau, Philippines or PNG). This area is home to many different tribal groups and one will see locals wearing traditional costume; most famous of which is the “Koteka” penis sheath. They carve beautiful and explicit

wooden sculptures which make an unusual souvenir. There are countless opportunities to snorkel and dive over WW2 wrecks and pristine coral reefs. The National Park area covers the southwest corner and one must take a ranger with you when visiting. Local fishermen await on floating Bagans to provide a unique experience to swim with whale sharks. Due to the bay’s topography and tidal flows, an abundance of plankton means the whale sharks live here all year round. The Park is home to more than 200 species of fish and other marine life: colourful reef fish, sharks, dolphins, blue whales, hawksbill / green / leatherback turtles, and even dugong. IN GENERAL: the paperwork and scale of Indonesia can seem daunting at first but with accurate advice and proper planning, the experience more than compensates. Officialdom has eased since Perpres 79; however it is still customary to check-in and tip local port authorities. Tradition expects that one seeks permission from the village headman to visit and dive around remote islands – a much more satisfactory system than port clearances, in our opinion. Knowledgeable pre-planning,

quality provisioning & bunkers, informative dive and cultural guides, plus dependable agent support are now all readily available; making any visit to Indonesia a wonder-filled, memorable vacation. To have developed these resources in just eight years is a remarkable feat; due in no small part to the pioneering work with government and local authorities done by Indo Yacht Support and the newer industry stakeholders. It is not the Med – but that’s yet another reason to visit. Captain Cilian Budarlaigh is a founding partner and the marketing manager for The Yacht Support Group, a maritime tourism consultancy in Bali, offering specialised superyacht support, logistics and repair services to visiting yachts. Before relocating to Bali, he skippered and raced large classic yachts in the Mediterranean and Caribbean in a career spanning 13 years. www.indoyachtsupport.com www.yachtsupport.org

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THE WORD

WHEN YES MEANS NO

Face-to-face interaction in Asia is so delicately complex, that after two years of living in Singapore and being interested in the art of communication, I feel no closer to the burning question: “How do you do business in Asia?”

“Asian etiquette leaves little manoeuvre for being wrong”

hen I say business, I don’t mean when to process tax returns or arrange pension plans, but how to nurture steadfast professional trust between suppliers, clients and customers. Given a language gap, the temptation is to hide behind emails, but it is so easy to misinterpret the syntax. Phone calls can be awkward, staccato affairs and tend to end in the Brit-aboard method of shouting to be understood. So, there is nowhere else to hide, you want to do business; you need to iron those slacks and go shake some hands. If you Google “how to do business in China” you will be overwhelmed with the lists of hazards, pitfalls and oddities that must be avoided; things like (and I quote ad infinitum) “you can condemn Mao Tse Tung, but never criticize Deng Hsiao Ping”. I for one am bound to get that the wrong way round and be deemed an anarchic outcast. By the time you have avoided taboo subjects, obeyed seating hierarchies, exchanged business cards correctly and given the right gifts in the appropriate order, it’s no doubt you will

be too intimidated to try and actually converse with your hosts. The good news is that, manners and deference will take you a long way and that “how to do business in Asia”Google searches provide only lazy lists of anecdotes. Common sense will prevail and unless you are trailblazing the Silk Road during the Tang Dynasty, it’s likely that your counterpart will be familiar and understanding of any cultural anomalies. However, there are social communication subtleties which can be most bewildering: Primarily an aversion to saying ‘no’. Asian etiquette leaves little manoeuvre for being wrong. To admit that one is unable to do something is akin to personal insult. As a westerner I have a quirky habit of praising failure, but it does not translate and I have little nous of ‘keeping face’. Mianzi (the art of keeping face) is, however, deeply ingrained into Chinese culture: “Face is a sense of worth that comes from knowing one’s status and reflects concern with the congruency between one’s performance or appearance and one’s real worth. (Huang 1987)” This means face is a sociodynamic concept based on status and dignity and is very carefully constructed and nurtured. It is therefore extremely important to respect and understand

how it influences what is said, particularly in the context of business conversations. In its most baffling form, mianzi will mean shaking hands, affirmative words and profuse head nodding, yet still having not come to an agreement. The skill is to be able to read between the lines, to be aware of non-verbal communication. Western interaction tends to cross many diverse cultures, languages, histories and social organisation, therefore verbal communication has evolved to be implicit. Conversely, cultures which have a homogeneous background or rigid social organisation tend to have high contextual communication which can be largely non-verbal. This means that individuals (who share the same contextual skill) can communicate without any words having been exchanged and that even in conversation, it is not the words delivered but the combination of the way they are intoned and the body-language which conveys the true meaning. In relation to keeping face, Asian counterparts can often find the austere, brutal language Westerners use to communicate, brash and insulting. Disenfranchised with ‘dress-down-Fridays’ and brainstorming-whilst-playingpool attitude towards the work place, I find it refreshing that

business meetings in Asia are particularly courteous and etiquette profoundly rigorous. Yet I was dismayed to find in forums online the same degree of mud-slinging happens on the internet here as in the West. Perhaps then, given the comparative recent multiculturalism; internet forums provide a level platform, where different cultures can express themselves in clumsy, direct terms without the embarrassment of being offensive in a social context; empowering individuals to voice opinions anonymously without the intricacies of communication or worrying about keeping face. Maybe I shouldn’t be so worried and it’s merely a difference of communication culture I will however, undoubtedly continue to apologise profusely for nothing in particular, advertise my failings and keep my darkest opinions to myself, I am British after all (sorry about that). Jody Chapman is designer and managing director at Seventy Seven Design; a yacht design and project management company based in Singapore.

THE WORD

ONBOARD EXPERIENCE MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Sometimes an aesthetically pleasing boat does not imply it is working and sailing perfectly. In the end, the designer’s target is not solely to create a beautiful marine object but especially to conceive a functional project that sails properly.

“Designers who sail the boats or yachts conceived are able to feel what they transmit”

long time ago, before opening my own studio I worked for an engineering studio that designed big chemical carriers, ships with many pipes and schemas on board, a technically complicated job.

is a true challenge. In my experience, if the designer studies as many details as possible during the project phase, there will be a greater chance of achieving a better result at the end of the job when the boat is launched and tested into the sea.

At that time we only worked with Autocad and Microstation programmes, although all projects were started off by hand, designed by experienced and highly qualified people. One of these men, having great experience and knowing my passion for yacht design, once told me, “It is not important that the boat is floating but that it is sailing properly.” Never a statement was truer.

However in some cases this doesn’t happen because there are different designers involved in the same project, and every group is working as if in a “watertight compartment”. One of the basics of a successful project is communication between all the members of the design team, as this allows them to create not only a beautiful object, but one that also works well.

When a designer starts to conceive a new project, the first concept is a mix of dimensions, sketches, ideas and designer sensations. In the end the aim is to create a beautiful and functional object which meets all the owner’s requests. Easier said than done. It is not easy to achieve such results because a boat or a yacht is a concentration of parameters and finding the right balance between them

In some cases, designers do not sail their boats when completed, missing a chance to gather important data and improve future projects. It is my personal opinion that sailing a vessel is important and designers who sail the boats or yachts conceived are able to feel what they transmit. We can call this onboard experience and I always try to bring my collaborators onboard for this reason, because as designers we spend many hours in front of the computer, but it

is important that we touch, with hands, what we design. I’m currently taking part in the sea trials for one of my new projects, being a member of the crew and racing on board in regattas together with skilled people. As always it is a great experience working with these people as it allows me to understand the right set up of the boat and to understand with real data what we thought on paper. Sharing feedback, opinions and solutions is a work in progress that enriches and makes the project even more successful. Above all the judgements you may get, only one truly counts — the judgement of the sea. Gianluca Adragna is a naval architect who designed and built the "Regina di Cuori", winner in its category of the Coppa d'Autunno – Barcolana, known as the biggest regatta in the world. He has also designed several powerboats and sailing boats since founding Adragna Yacht Design in 1997.

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THE WORD

CHARTER CHALLENGES

I have chartered numerous yachts in the past and always ended up thinking it was not just the best way to spend a holiday… but the rest of your life. Unfortunately, restrictions, rules, conditions and cultures are all barriers that must be overcome in Asia to making this dream come true.

“Some countries have evolved at a different pace than others when it comes to marine leisure activities”

ven as an experienced boater in the West, making the best of a yachting trip to Asia is not always as easy as it seems, especially when there is half the earth between you and the destination, and centuries of cultural differences. Some countries have evolved at a different pace than others when it comes to marine leisure activities and have instituted different rules and regulations to cope with their vision. This creates a gap between marine cultures to the point where the necessity of some rules in one country may seem obsolete and/or unnecessary in another. Why develop new technologies or force a local island population to apply sophisticated regulations when they are not ready and it does not make local sense? Such differences frustrate

quite a few charter operators who are trying hard to make their mark in a growing international market. The industry as a whole has tried to level down the differences by developing an international yachting association known as MYBA, whose goal is to insure that technical and safety standards are respected. The MYBA achieves this standardisation by working closely with government organisations, coastguards, international maritime organisations, insurance companies and lawyers to make sure they provide an industry standard throughout the world. Although there have been numerous talks between local and regional marine associations (such as TMBA - Thai Marine Business Association), the association has yet to reach an understanding in this part of the world. A unified approach is still needed to help the Asian industry reach a level acceptable in the eyes of the global community, which in turn would develop the industry further and give more job opportunities to locals. Another issue is a lack of infrastructure. The prospect of re-fuelling is a mission on its

own. What fuel or non-fuel is available? Have they cleaned the tank properly? Are you sure it’s marine diesel? A captain might face these questions (and a lot more) when his owner decides to explore something beyond the well worn routes to the Caribbean and Mediterranean. A lack of support in more remote places such as Myanmar is understandable in a barely open country attempting its first steps into an unknown international scene. In addition, local law will require strict surveillance 24/7, even aboard your yacht. A local guide is compulsory and usually provided by local authorities, who must also be given a detailed itinerary to be respected at all times.

Despite these issues, new and exciting opportunities arise with the opening of new routes and destinations. One example is the famous resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte, St-Helena. The promotion the Governor’s Cup Regatta between Cape Town and Jamestown, as well as the prospect of a soon to be opened international airport (opening February 2016) are examples of the dynamic change in marine routes and charter destinations around the globe. When such opportunities influence the industry, we should not ignore them, but should accept the challenge to develop them further, together with the local people and for the benefit of all.

Guillaume Chaillot is a marine industry consultant and has been working in the luxury yachting sector for 10 Years in Australia and the Asia Pacific Region.

CMY

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SOCIAL

Helm Magazine played an active role in the success of this year’s Singapore Yacht Show at One 15 Marina. The magazine’s editor Jules Kay hosted the Gala Dinner at W Singapore Sentosa Cove, where the Helm Singapore Yacht Show awards were also presented, with the winners including Princess Yachts, Sunseeker’s M/Tanvas, Royal Huisman’s S/Y Twizzle and Simpson Marine. Helm Magazine also hosted two social events at the show: the popular annual Superyacht Social for the delegates at the Asia Pacific Superyacht Conference, this year held at Sabio by the Sea, as well as an exclusive invitation-only event aboard M/Y Star. The events were sponsored by Rubicon Wines, 6Drunk Men, 88Black and Zwiesel Kristallglas. Both gatherings were a great success, bringing together professionals from the industry as well as HNWIs with a strong interest in luxury boating. In June, the Helm team were once again welcoming guests aboard a superyacht, this time moored in Marina at Keppel Bay. The magazine was co-sponsor for Simpson Marine’s exclusive gathering aboard 52-metre M/Y Matahari (see vessels section), which also included a live pianist and a rare opportunity for invited guests to view jewellery from Mouawad collections, worn by royalty, celebrities and connoisseurs of exquisite jewellery around the world.