Harbour Magazine No.7 by hillrobinson

Our Global Yachting View | No 7

Cover

Our Global Yachting View | No 7

WELCOME To have joined Hill Robinson at such an exciting time in the company’s history is an honour for me and, it is with great pleasure, that I welcome you to the latest edition of HARBOUR magazine. Kurt Fraser Sales & Marketing Director

As you will see, HARBOUR showcases a new brand identity for Hill Robinson; one that acknowledges the company’s heritage whilst confidently looks to its future.

Letter from Nick Hill

With adversity comes opportunity, and the Hill Robinson Group has faced the challenges of the past year with admirable drive and determination. I must take this opportunity, on behalf of the Partners to thank the entire Hill Robinson team for their hard work and commitment – we are truly a company that is greater than the sum of its parts. The team at Hill Robinson continues to grow, and we are pleased to have welcomed several new members to the sales and marketing team at both Hill Robinson and Moravia Yachting in recent months. By expanding our skillset and adding even greater depth to our knowledge and understanding, I believe our mission to provide unparalleled support and service is assured. Across the board, the industry is enjoying exponential growth and there has never been a better time to own or charter a superyacht. Yachting is one of the few pastimes able to offer complete safety and security and within HARBOUR, you’ll find inspiration for destinations to be discovered, advice on new build and refit, and a selection of vessels from our charter fleet for your review. This year marks 20 years in business for Hill Robinson, a feat that is celebrated in the following pages. As we look ahead to the next 20 years, we thank our clients for their loyalty and support, and hope to serve their requirements with the same level of dedication, discretion and drive moving forwards.

Our Global Yachting View | No 7

20 Years: A Retrospective

Natural Selection

Racing for Recognition

Top Flight Service

What The Future Holds

Palma: A Superyacht Hub

The World’s Most Exciting New Marinas

Super Scuba 86

Treasures Of Arabia

Hill Robinson Recruitment: Taking The Personal Approach

The Red Sea Riviera

Inside Les Voiles D’Antibes 40

The Services Owners Need Most 42

Building Better 48

Optimising The Yacht Owning Experience 51

Introducing Moravia Yachting 57

Striving For Equality

100

117

100

177

Ionian Island Bliss

174

Talking Turtles

110

177

How To Master Charter

Bahamas Splendid Isolation

116

186

Our Charter Managers

Expert Insight: President Barrett Wright

117

Our Charter Fleet

188

142

Submarines & Superyachts: The Matchmaking Process

Spotlight On: Savannah Yacht Center 193

Let’s Talk About Sharks 196

Swimming With Sharks

110

149

Hill Robinson: Italy 150

Hill Robinson: Cyprus 152

Balearic Charter Discovery 158

The Rise And Rise Of Expedition Yachts 168

The America’s Cup Effect

196

20 YEARS A RETROSPECTIVE Written by Roxanne Hughes

—— It’s April 2001 and as Nick Hill and Niall Robinson take the keys to their new Antibes office, the superyacht industry holds its breath — here comes a game changer.

Right from day one, Hill Robinson chose integrity and trust as cornerstones for the business. Niall had been working for Peter Insull’s prior to the company’s formation and both Partners identified the importance of collaboration ahead of competition. “A lot of people saw us as a threat — particularly some of the large brokerage houses — to some extent they were right, Nick and I were a dynamic combination, but actually they needn’t have been concerned in those early days. It took us five years or so to really get going,” reflects Niall.

Nick and Niall first met during their time on boats. Niall, working his way up from deckhand to Captain and Nick, working as a First Officer

“We never could have predicted the company would grow in the way

and Captain prior to completing an MBA in London and subsequent

it has. Of course you can imagine and hope for success, write down

employment at Camper & Nicholsons. They travelled together,

your aspirational goals, but I don’t know if we really believed it at

sailed together and finally, decided to form a business together.

the outset,” comments Niall. “We really had no clue how successful the business would become,” adds Nick. “I had done and re-done

“Niall and I had always toyed and joked with the idea of doing

the business plan so many times, ‘we’ll structure it like this, we’ll do

something together but it wasn’t until I found myself unemployed in

it like that’ but by the time we came to open the doors in April 2001,

late 2000 that the opportunity really presented itself,” comments Nick.

the first business plan was in the bin and we had to adapt. Seems to

“I was keen to be an independent consultant or project manager but

have worked!”

then, when you are on your own, there’s a danger of getting one boat, one client or one project, then you go from one to the other without real progress. Talking to Niall, we recognised that the superyacht industry was expanding, the market was expanding, and that’s

“Of course you can imagine and hope for success, write down your aspirational goals, but I don’t know if we really believed it at the outset”

when we said ‘let’s do something’.” Fast forward 20 years and the Partners, now including Karl Hartmann who joined the duo in 2006, can attest to heading up one of the most successful names in superyachting, with 12 international offices and over 200 staff members. “The atmosphere and energy still feels like a start up!” proclaims Niall. “Throughout our 20-year operation, we have continuously looked at how

The company’s growth has not been without its challenges however,

we grow, evolve and expand – that spirit’s in our DNA. Complacency

and along with the majority of companies their progress was hampered

gets you nowhere and we have always been conscious of staying

by the global economic crash in 2008. “Prior to the crash, we had

ahead of the curve.”

already become quite a big company — reaching our first real peak in business — and the crisis meant we had to scale things back a bit.

The company has developed into one with a particularly unique

It didn’t stop us though, and now we’re in an even stronger position,”

proposition: delivering the extraordinary, all over the world. With a focus

says Niall.

on technical, operational and compliance for their clients, as well as sales and charter and a whole menu of other services, on the ground

Throughout the company’s 20-year legacy, any other challenges seemed

resource and real-time intelligence is available from St Tropez to Saudi

to be owner-led, as is the way with a service-orientated business such

Arabia, Australia to the Arctic. No matter where Hill Robinson clients

as Hill Robinson. “The owners and their teams are always a challenge —

choose to cruise, Hill Robinson’s ability to serve and support is assured

you’re dealing with personalities and passions,” explains Nick. “It’s actually

and it’s the breadth and depth of specialist capabilities that has set the

one of the things I find most difficult — Niall is much more patient

company apart.

than I am!”

Hill Robinson founders Niall Robinson (left) and Nick Hill (right).

20 Years – A Retrospective

Image: Partners – Nick, Karl and Niall in 2018

One of the things the Partners of Hill Robinson have noticed during

For Partner Karl Hartmann, leading such a talented team is a true

their time in the superyacht industry, is the incredible shift towards

pleasure. “It’s been nearly 15 years at Hill Robinson for me! A special

professionalism and regulation. “The whole industry has become

place where for me, personally, my wings were spread and I learned

significantly more professional than it was 20 years ago, and that’s a

to fully dedicate myself and my life to the creation of some amazing

welcome change,” says Niall. “People are better qualified, there are

projects. 14 years later, I can say it remains an incredible honour to

systems in place and there are checks and balances, and that’s really

lead this team and inspire them with the drive to perform and

benefitted us — we exist to provide that infrastructure.” For Nick,

achieve great things together.”

with that professionalism comes even greater opportunity, “there are so many specialists you can call upon and there’s so much more scope for collaboration — it’s a more dynamic way of working and it better serves the owner.” All three Partners point to the company’s teamwork as the basis for its success but undeniably, their individual characters and personality traits have an impact. “I’m very independent,” comments Nick, “I was a terrible employee but I think the lessons I’ve learned have made me a better leader.” For Niall, it’s more about the methodical approach: “We both

“The longer we work together, the more I see that the teamwork is important. We want to make this company appealing for people, to make it the best work environment possible — attracting the best staff and retaining them”

like to analyse problems and find solutions, neither of us would simply shrug and just shut a door. We have very different personalities but we’ve got a lot of things in common. Sometimes our solutions to a problem might be different but we always have faith a solution will be found. That continued when Karl joined us as Partner, and when Mark Robinson added his strength to the team as CFO.” With a strong team comes strong teamwork, and a setup that rewards employee dedication and longevity. Trina Davies, Head of Accounts, was the company’s first employee and remains at her desk in the Antibes office: “I really can’t believe that this is my 21st year with Hill Robinson. The company has grown exponentially over the years — it’s fantastic, and I’m extremely proud to have been a part of it. Nick, Niall and Karl

On attaining their 20th anniversary, all three Partners are keen to look to the future rather than don rose-tinted glasses. “Both Niall and I can confidently say that we wouldn’t be where we are, were it not for our team,” says Nick, “and there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t appreciate how lucky I am.” Niall echoes that sentiment, “I’m obviously incredibly proud to have been part of something that has enjoyed such exponential growth but always, when I’m asked this kind of question, I have to say that what I am most proud of is our team — the way they perform, communicate and work together is something quite remarkable.”

are always keen to champion the Hill Robinson team and I really must thank them for their dedication to all of us, particularly this last year.”

The Hill Robinson family, Dec 2019.

R O F G N N I O I C T I A R GN O C E R

Racing for Recognition

—— A shadow shape-shifts across the crest of a dune. Moments later, nine and a half tons of Kamaz truck crashes nose down, belching exhaust fumes into the air. These 13-litre, tundra trouncing leviathans are just part of the ‘Mad Max’ style cacophony of machinery; tackling all that can be thrown at them on the Saudi Arabia Dakar Rally. The Dakar Rally was originally the brainchild of Thierry Sabine, who became lost in the Libyan desert during the 1977 Abidjan-Nice Rally. Having been rescued and repatriated to France, his ethos for Dakar is maintained in the event today. He stated it should always be: “A challenge for those who go. A dream for those who stay behind.” Thierry Sabine tragically died in 1986, in a helicopter crash during the rally, still referred to as ‘The Black Year’. Sabine did not know that he would inspire a 44-year legacy that would see the competition visit Europe, Africa and South America. By his hand, a Dakar victory became a goal for car manufacturers like Citroen, Mitsubishi and Porsche. Factory teams vied for the prestige of winning, thus proving their reliability, with huge budgets and multiple entries. The rally became a rite of passage for professional drivers from all disciplines like Ari Vatanen, Colin McRae and Jacky Ickx.

“A Dakar victory became a goal for car manufacturers like Citroen, Mitsubishi and Porsche. Factory teams vied for the prestige of winning, thus proving their reliability”

In 2020 the Dakar took up residency in Saudia Arabia, and it is easy to see why. The country’s varied topology and topography makes it perfectly suited to this specialist ‘go anywhere’ event. The country has an enthusiastic fan base and when asked about the scale of opportunity for the event’s future, Dakar director David Castera has commented: “Saudi Arabia offers many new places and areas where you could organise five Dakars without repeating stages.”

Kamaz trucks traverse the dunes.

Racing for Recognition

The Dakar is still acknowledged as the planet’s toughest test of motoring endurance by both privateers and factory teams. The event sees man and machinery pushed to the very edge of performance as they pilot motorbikes, quads, trucks, specially designed prototypes and buggies to victory. The ability to keep the challenge and dream alive is the key to the rally’s continuation. This year saw a new and even more challenging route, which started and finished in Jeddah. Comprising an enervating 8,000km across 12 timed special daily stages that encompassed mountains, dunes, rocks, mud and the infamous ‘fresh fresh’ that the Dakar is renown for. The 2021 incarnation, with all its unique challenges, truly crystallised the ultimate rally Sabine had imagined.

“The event sees man and machinery pushed to the very edge of performance as they pilot motorbikes, quads, trucks, special designed prototypes and buggies to victory”

Saudi Arabia is very much becoming a focus for international motorsport at the highest level, not just due to its wealth; but because it has always held a healthy and fanatical interest in following all types of four-wheeled action. Globally, the evocative 1980s green and white Williams Saudi livery of Alan Jones’ car, which won that year’s Drivers Title, will never be forgotten; less so the 2016 World Rally Championship Nissan Patrol of Adel Hussain Abdulla. Both, however, illustrate the longevity of historical Saudi commitment to the motoring gladiator’s cause. The recent success of Formula E in the country, with its environmentally lit night race; along with its designated Riyadh Street Circuit in Diriyah, showed commitment to be all-embracing and forward-thinking. Then, earlier this year, it cemented its hierarchical position with Formula One completing Saudi Arabia’s motorsport trinity; and taking up its rightful place, in the Kingdom’s petrolhead portfolio.

A motorbike navigates the rocky terrain.

Racing for Recognition

The new Formula One circuit will welcome its first Grand Prix competitors in December 2021.

The Saudia Arabia Grand Prix will follow Bahrain and Abu Dhabi in the

This ‘best of both worlds’ circuit is already idyllically set on the Red Sea

Formula One calendar, becoming the third race in the Middle East in the

and has been designed with supremely fast-flowing sections. This allows

2021 season. In December, Jeddah will once again resound to the sound

provision for multiple crowd-pleasing DRS zones, providing overtaking

of exhausts; both teams and fans will experience the spectacle of the

opportunities for drivers. With average speeds of 250kph (155mph),

sport’s fastest street circuit.

and 27 gruelling corners (including esses and chicanes) the circuit will be the second longest, after the current driver’s favourite of Spa Francorchamps (Belgium), at 3.8 miles.

“The Saudia Arabia Grand Prix will follow Bahrain and Abu Dhabi in the Formula One calendar, becoming the third race in the Middle East in the 2021 season”

Saudi Arabia is now unique in encompassing so many high-level motorsport events with such divergence of disciplines. It has fulfilled Thierry Sabine’s mantra. The ‘Land of the Two Holy Mosques’ provides some of the most incredible challenges for those who take part, to be viewed by those who can but dream...

Designed by Herman Tilke, F1 circuit supremo, Jeddah has been conceived with some key driver and fan pleaser elements in place. Ross Brawn, F1 manager of motorsport, is keen to stress they worked closely with Tilke, ”to ensure we have a track that provides exciting

Written by Rob Bellinger

wheel-to-wheel racing for our fans and challenges all of the drivers.”

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS —— Achieving 20 years in business is a significant milestone for any company. For Hill Robinson, it’s more than just a celebratory moment and a marker in the road; it’s an opportunity to look forward and to map out what the next 20 years might look like for this industry-leading firm.

The strength of Hill Robinson is its people.

Hill Robinson has always taken a client centric

To secure future success and safeguard another

A strong statement, but this resolute mantra is

approach and their focus on continuous

20 years in business, Hill Robinson is further

what has underpinned the company’s success

improvement, to surpass expectations and

investing in its people: ensuring the internal

to date and, for newly-appointed Chief People

requirements, has enabled the company to

resource is a perfect match for the external

Officer Jane Stevenson, it’s the key to the

explore smarter solutions and streamline

service that’s required. Throughout the COVID-19

company’s future.

business processes for its clients — resulting in

pandemic, Hill Robinson continued with their

a turnkey solution that offers peace of mind.

expansion plans, brought new team members into the fold and took the opportunity to build

“From the Partners to the team members and the supply chain, the wealth of knowledge

Whilst their clients come first, Hill Robinson

held within the Hill Robinson value chain is

also place a purposeful focus on their role

unparalleled,” comments Jane. “Whilst our

within the wider industry. “Our resources and

core business is yachting, our network and

processes are continually developed, and we

understanding spans everything from corporate

share that innovation and advancement with

services and business management to the

our stakeholders across the superyacht sector.

hospitality and luxury travel sectors.”

It’s extremely important to us that we remain relevant and at the cutting edge of day-to-day

The business has grown from a boutique start-

operations,” explains Jane.

up based in London to a globally respected full-service powerhouse, employing over 200

During the last year, organisational

people. Over the years, the Hill Robinson

development and the streamlining of

Group has quietly built a reputation as a highly

processes have been driving forces behind

capable and, above all, discreet operation.

the company’s activity, with increased quality being the aim. The company’s efficiency

“ The greatest lesson the last year has taught us, is that in adversity there is always opportunity. The one caveat to that is that one has to be agile, willing and open to new thinking and ideas. Hill Robinson is proudly so.” JANE STEVENSON CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER HILL ROBINSON

Karl Hartmann, Partner at Hill Robinson, has been

is often praised by clients and industry

with the company for nearly 15 years and in

associates alike, but the extraordinarily high

that time has seen the team achieve enviable

level of service Hill Robinson deliver to their

industry acclaim. “For the last 15 years, the

clients is truly what sets the company apart

Whilst the true impact of COVID is yet to be

Hill Robinson world has been my oyster and

from competitors.

seen, Hill Robinson keeps a watchful eye on international politics and various external

permitted me to spread my professional wings.

on human resource and skillsets company-wide.

The amazing passion within the team, the

“Our dedicated approach and intrinsic

factors that have the potential to effect the

collective drive and knowledge, assures me

teamwork has served us well so far, and it’s

business’ operation, but Jane is confident

that anything is possible. With the trust of our

this continued creativity, progressive policies

that the company’s global awareness holds

clients, we achieve the truly unbelievable and I

and open-minded day-to-day operation that

them in good stead: “We function within an

look forward to being part of what comes next.”

will take us into the future,” comments Karl.

international economy and global sphere —

Written by Roxanne Hughes

“Our team don’t really perceive themselves

we continually discuss, review and evolve

as having a ‘job’ to do, they see it as a

as required, and this, if anything, simply

fundamental responsibility to our clients.”

makes us stronger.”

MARINAS THE WORLD’S MOST EXCITING NEW

The World’s Most Exciting New Marinas

“An on-site heliport complete with a dedicated heliport lounge and elevator, will enable guests to access their yachts in complete privacy”

—— Finding the perfect base for your superyacht has always been one of the biggest challenges of ownership — and when it comes to world-famous hotspots with a complete package of amenities, competition is fierce.

The heart of the French Riviera: Port Vauban Port Vauban is the largest marina in Europe by tonnage, with more than 1,600 berths, including 19 superyacht slips on the aptly named IYCA Quay. Located in the glorious town of Antibes, the marina is just a 20-minute drive from Nice international airport — or a speedy fiveminute helicopter transfer. While certainly one of the most conveniently located marinas for exploring the best of the French Riviera, Antibes offers plenty of draw of its own. The charming Old Town is just a stone’s throw from Port Vauban and immediately enchants with picturesque terraces and winding cobblestone streets. For a taste of life by the

Though long-established spots are often worth the wait for their

ocean, the Cap d’Antibes peninsula is alive with chic beach clubs

locations alone, heavy investment in marina developments worldwide

and sea-view restaurants.

is offering an increasingly exciting range of fresh options to those looking for the ideal home berth.

Port Vauban’s International Yacht Club Antibes (IYCA) is also a central attraction and is slated for a radical transformation of its own as part

In recent years, marinas have become far more than just a safe port

of the marina’s renovation project. “The new IYCA will look like a vessel,

of call, and many are now exclusive luxury destination resorts within

The Explorer, and is designed by renowned French architect and urban

themselves. Such examples are Porto Montenegro (Montenegro),

planner Philippe Prost. There are many additional state-of-the-art amenities,

Christophe Harbour (St Kitts), Canouan (St Vincent and the

including a crew area with a lounge and fitness centre, as well as an

Grenadines), and Gelendzhik Port (Black Sea, Russia).

upper deck lounge bar for owners and captains. The stern will provide an on-site heliport complete with a dedicated heliport lounge and

Sustainability, technical capability and availability define this wave of

elevator, enabling guests to access their yachts in complete privacy,”

marina developments, and perhaps none more so than Port Vauban in

says David Rayon, Sales Manager at Port Vauban.

Antibes. Located on the French Riviera, nestled between Monaco and St Tropez, Port Vauban has long been a staple of yachting on the Côte d’Azur, with the rich maritime heritage of Antibes evident at every turn. Announcing an impressive €130 million investment into a groundbreaking renovation project earlier this year, however, the historic marina has made it clear they are preparing to step firmly into the future. Offering coveted long-term leases, state-of-the-art facilities, a brand new yacht club and sweeping environmental initiatives, Port Vauban is set to become one of the world’s most advanced marina complexes.

Written by Gemma Fottles

The new yacht club at Port Vauban has been designed to replicate the lines of an explorer yacht. Olivia Gordon-Bourcart, Head of Commercial Development. The dockside promenade will provide amenities for marina users, tourists and locals.

The World’s Most Exciting New Marinas

The Bastion Saint-Jaume is an integral part of the marina’s renovation and development.

—— The future is green on the Cote d’Azur As well as being a fantastic spot for owners and crew alike, the new Port Vauban is also committed to becoming one of the most environmentally conscious marinas out there. Here we talk to Port Vauban about their eco credentials. What does Port Vauban offer owners looking for increasingly sustainable yachting options? We are all too aware that nature has been taken advantage of and often devastated for economic reasons. We can, and we must, reverse the trend. Some of the environmental advances made in 2020 in Port Vauban include replacing all our thermal vehicles with electric vehicles, improving the waste reception centre and our 2020 “Clean Port” certification — the result of in-depth work carried out by the port teams for the environment. A fish nursery project was also launched in the harbour in 2015 — a process that has the double advantage of putting the ecosystems back on track and supporting the economic activities that remain linked to the harbour.

Can you tell us more about the 50 new Biohut nurseries in Antibes? In 2021, our priority will be to continue improving the quality of our water and strengthening our actions for biodiversity. The installation of 56 new Biohut nurseries do just that. Because of the quay’s straight design and an obvious lack of suitable habitat, ports become a trap for young fish, leaving them unprotected from predators. The Biohut process aims to restore the natural cycle. Once equipped, the quays and pontoons become shelters for many aquatic species. Why is it important to keep working towards a greener future? While it represents less than 1% of the total ocean surface, the Mediterranean Sea accounts for nearly 7% of the world’s marine fish species. The western part of the Mediterranean is one of the most diversified areas with nearly 350 species of fish. However, this biodiversity is threatened by pollution and also by coastal developments that reduce available habitats. That is why we must act today to maintain this richness and preserve our future fish population and the health of our oceans.

MARINAS TO WATCH With more yachts on the water than ever, we’ve handpicked a few of our favourite new marina developments from around the world.

43.78895, 7.59798

25.00306, 77.50749

Located just under eight nautical miles from Monaco's glittering

Although this exclusive marina opened its doors in 2010, Albany

shores, Cala del Forte is another fantastic marina development in the

Marina has managed to stay decidedly under the radar. Located on

Mediterranean. An ideal starting point for cruising the French Riviera

the paradisiacal island of New Providence in the Bahamas and able

and beyond, Cala del Forte is home to 178 berths for yachts ranging

to accommodate yachts up to 91 metres in length, its high-profile

from 6.5 to 70+ metres. Managed by the Port of Monaco, the marina's

founders include the golfing legends Tiger Woods and Ernie Els.

development is in response to demand for berths in the area. January

Privacy, glamour and impressive lifestyle amenities are central to life

2021 saw the launch of an exclusive shuttle service from Monaco to

on the island. An 18-hole championship golf course is undoubtedly a

Cala del Forte, ran via the 12-metre power catamaran Monaco One,

highlight, while the spa and wellness centre, state-of-the-art fitness

and the marina opened its doors in July.

facilities and growing selection of luxury real estate opportunities

CALA DEL FORTE, VENTIMIGLIA, ITALY

ALBANY, NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS

complete the package.

34.66690, 33.03859

44.40300, 8.91462

For those looking to get away from the milk run and experience a

A brand new city-centre marina facility with 26 berths for vessels from

different kind of Mediterranean yachting, there may be no better

30 to 110 metres, the Amico Waterfront Marina is the latest marina

destination than Cyprus. Located on the southern coast of the sun-

development on the Italian Riviera. Completed in April 2021 following

soaked island, Limassol Marina offers 650 berths for superyachts up to

18 months of construction, the new marina is located less than 500

110 metres and boasts plenty of world-class amenities — as well as a

metres from the leading refit shipyard Amico & Co, and boasts state-

secluded, sandy beach. From Ayia Napa to Larnaka, Limassol provides

of-the-art crew facilities ideal for extended maintenance periods. Just

seamless access to the treasures of Cyprus, while its location makes it

15 minutes by car to Genoa International Airport, Waterfront Marina

the ideal starting point for longer adventures into Asia, the Middle East

serves as a gateway to summer sailing in spectacular Italian cruising

and Western Europe. With facilities including an on-site shipyard for

grounds, from Portofino to the Cinque Terre.

LIMASSOL MARINA, CYPRUS

repairs and maintenance, Limassol is the perfect winter sun destination.

AMICO WATERFRONT MARINA, GENOA, ITALY

RECRUITMENT

HILL ROBINSON RECRUITMENT TAKING THE PERSONAL APPROACH

—— Anyone who has been in yachting for a period of time, from seasoned captains and heads of departments through to the greenest of crew, knows that the hottest topic on anyone’s lips is recruitment. Now, with a global pandemic thrown into the mix, the restriction of movement and a dearth of visas being issued, the recruitment process has become all the more complicated.

considerably in recent years, and Donna attributes that to two key factors: “The advent of social media and other platforms has led to a less personal approach. We discussed this at Hill Robinson and felt our more traditional, personable model works best for our candidates, fleet and the captains we connect with on a day-to-day basis. It’s highly valued.”

But the news is not all bad. Discussing the

them to fully understand regional needs

The advice she gives for candidates looking

topic with Donna Murray, Global Recruitment

and requirements. Uniquely, they are not

for a role in any department is to make sure

Manager at Hill Robinson, it is refreshing to

assigned to a department, such as interior or

that their certificates are up-to-date and valid,

learn that Hill Robinson’s recruitment model

deck, and instead each have their own yacht

and that their CV really highlights what they

has the ability to overcome. The company’s

clients from within the Hill Robinson managed

would bring to a yacht. Any form of additional

recruitment service came about on the back

fleet. This allows them to know the owners,

transferable skills, such as time in the hospitality

of a desire to keep owners and captains

captains, boats and their individual operational

industry, water sports instruction, nannying

happy, taking a face-to-face (when possible)

dynamics inside and out, which in turn enables

or mixology, really adds to a prospective

approach to fitting the right crew to the right

them to place the perfect candidates into their

candidate’s chances of finding a role to suit.

roles — ensuring that a happy crew stays

assigned roles. The fleet of over 50 managed boats, ranging

aboard and that the sought after longevity

The landscape of recruitment has evolved

is achieved. When asked if there are any

Regular check-ins with the captains and heads

from 28 metres to 130 metres, their non-

specifics that owners and captains are seeking

of department to discuss detailed briefs, as well

managed yachts and a land-based portfolio

these days, Donna explained, “it is all down

as the crew themselves, allows the recruitment

via Hill Robinson Elite Recruit, ensures that

to the individual yacht and situation — there’s

team to ensure that everything is running

the Hill Robinson Recruitment team is kept

no finite checklist, and this is why the Hill

smoothly and as expected. New candidates

busy year-round, but they always have

Robinson model works so well.”

are asked to register on the website and are

time, in whichever way they are able,

then invited for interview — in person where

for everyone involved.

The Hill Robinson Recruitment team comprises

possible — but on video at the least. This form

a group of ten crew specialists, the majority

of recruitment allows each side to get to know

of whom have a background in yachting,

each other better and forms the basis of the

and so understand the stresses and strains

familial Hill Robinson relationship. “Today, the

of finding that unicorn job and candidate.

communication is more electronic, but the

The team are strategically placed around

care and determination to find the perfect

the globe in key yachting hubs, enabling

match is in no way diminished,” adds Donna.

Written by Victoria Delany

“ It is all down to the individual yacht and situation — there’s no finite checklist, and this is why the Hill Robinson model works so well.” DONNA MURRAY GLOBAL RECRUITMENT MANAGER

INSIDE LES VOILES D’ANTIBES WITH CO-ORGANISER YANN JOANNON

Inside Les Voiles d’Antibes

From left to right: Brice Humbert, Yann Joannon, Thierry Piel and Maurice Carette.

—— Les Voiles d’Antibes is a classic yacht regatta with a reputation for fun on the French Riviera. By day, hundreds of competitive sailors head out in more than 80 classic yachts to go head-to-head across a series of impressive coastal races. By night, live music and legendary parties are attended by the thousand.

Les Voiles d’Antibes celebrated its 25th edition in 2020. What makes this regatta stand the test of time? Passion for classic yachts and passion for fun! What makes it so special year after year is what has always been our central philosophy: mixing a classic sailing regatta with a public event, with live music and fantastic parties every night. 25 years is a long time, but it seems that we started yesterday. We are really proud to have managed the event for so long — we certainly didn’t expect that would be the case at the outset — and to have kept the original identity and vision that we had at the beginning is special. The sailing yacht industry is filled with incredibly passionate people — it’s not necessarily about big money or high fashion. Many owners and crew have a family link with classic yachts, but every year, more and more people discover classic yachts for the first time.

Organised today by the same four sailing enthusiasts that established

It ignites a spark in them, and they want to get involved.

the regatta in 1996, Les Voiles is an event that is fuelled by passion and friendship. And it’s that winning combination, says co-organiser Yann

We know a few people who came to the first edition in 1996, and three

Joannon, that has enabled Les Voiles to become a permanent fixture

years later, they bought a classic yacht and have been participating in

on the international sailing scene.

the regatta ever since. They always say it was because of Les Voiles — they came to drink and listen to music in beautiful Antibes, but saw

In this article, Yann Joannon looks back at 25 years of Les Voiles d’Antibes,

the boats and fell in love with them!

and we delve into just what it is about this regatta that sparks such passion in spectators and participants alike.

Which boats are some of the longest-standing participants? The only classic yacht that has participated at all 25 regattas is the 14.8-metre 1963-built Outlaw owned by Mike Horsley, who was also the first private sponsor of Les Voiles d’Antibes. The second-longest contender is the 11.1-metre Bermudan sloop Crazy Life, with 21 years of participation to her name. Her owner, Dr Bernard Olivieri, is also the Official Doctor of the event and fell in love with classic yachts in Antibes in 1996. To complete the podium, we have Hallowe’en and Sagittarius both of which have competed at Les Voiles 18 times. Can you share just a couple of memorable moments from 25 years of racing? There are a lot of great memories in 25 years of Les Voiles d’Antibes! To choose only a couple, on the racing side, is hard! I think back to 2009, when we had only two yachts in the Big Boats class. We decided to do some match racing between them. On the third race, we had 35 knots

Written by Gemma Fottles

of wind and Moonbeam of Fife, and Moonbeam 4 raced in from Antibes’ old town. It was incredible for both crew and the public. Everyone was gathered on the ramparts to see those two gaff-rigged cutters of more than 30 metres battling like they were racing the America’s Cup!

Inside Les Voiles d’Antibes

“ Hill Robinson joined as our main sponsor in 2019. It’s a great collaboration and I would say it’s more of a partnership than a sponsorship. We share the same vision and enthusiasm. That’s why we get on so well; our main goal is to keep Les Voiles d’Antibes fun.” YANN JOANNON CO-FOUNDER — LES VOILES D’ANTIBES

Inside Les Voiles d’Antibes

Left to right: Nick’s yacht Dambuster, Niall’s yachts Brynhilde and Sardonyx.

Les Voiles is well known for its famous parties. What are your most

What is it about classic yachts that sparks such passion?

legendary party memories?

For me, it’s really about the history of the boats. Some of these boats

On the party side, I recall a collision one year between two vintage

are 120 or 130 years old. Owners tend to invest a lot of money in lovingly

yachts during the starting procedures. There were no injuries, but one

maintaining them, and they are still here, and they are still racing, which

yacht had some damage and needed a little carpentry work done.

is absolutely incredible. The cultural significance is also fascinating.

Making light of the situation, the crew were in good spirits and put all

The 1937-built 62-foot Manitou is a regular Les Voiles participant and

the broken wooden pieces of the boat on auction at the bar at the end

was JFK’s boat in the 1940s. It was nicknamed the Floating Whitehouse.

of the day. Every piece was sold. That evening was such a laugh and was

We have boats from famous owners like Humphrey Bogart or Errol Finn,

such a great moment for everyone there. They even auctioned a night

actors, industrialists and celebrities. You have the history of classic yachts

with the Captain in the end!

combined with culture, but the common factor is always a love of sailing. The owners’ and crews’ passion and dedication for maintaining these

Hill Robinson joined as the main sponsor three years ago, but owners

boats means that they are always ready to sail and transmit that heritage

Nick Hill and Niall Robinson have been racing Les Voiles since 1996.

to the next generations.

Tell us about your relationship? It’s a long story with Nick and Niall! They started Hill Robinson around

What do the next 25 years look like for Les Voiles d’Antibes?

the same time that we started the regatta — both in Antibes. They have

Les Voiles is always a great opportunity for owners, crew, the general

always competed in Les Voiles d’Antibes. Even though Hill Robinson is

public — everybody — just to enjoy life, enjoy sailing and enjoy the ocean.

well known for superyachts, they are originally from the classic yacht

We see the little kids walking on the docks, and they see those boats

business, working on many of those classic yachts we see today.

and their eyes just grow wide — maybe that excitement leads them to ask their parents to take them sailing. We want to share our event with a

When our long-standing sponsor Panerai discontinued their partnership

future generation of sailors, so they will hopefully be sailing for another

with classic regattas throughout the Med, we needed to find a new

100 years. The classic yachting universe is changing, and we will adapt

sponsor. We talked with Nick and Niall, and they wanted Les Voiles

ourselves to provide the best welcome and the best atmosphere for

to continue as it was, with the same values of friendship, motivation

owners, crews and the general public. We will keep the passion alive

and passion. So Hill Robinson joined as our main sponsor in 2019. It’s

and kicking for another 25 years.

a great collaboration and I would say it’s more of a partnership than a sponsorship. We share the same vision and enthusiasm. That’s why we get on so well; our main goal is to keep Les Voiles d’Antibes fun.

CORPORATE SERVICES

THE SERVICES OWNERS NEED MOST —— From enjoying a crisp glass of Cristal at sunset in Santorini to swimming in the balmy aquarium-like waters of the Similan Islands, exploring the world from the comfort of your personal floating six-star resort is simply an unrivalled experience. Behind these paradisiacal scenes, though, is the less-glamorous side of yachting.

Written by Kate Lardy

Many parts need to come together for a superyacht’s smooth operation:

How do your services reduce the owner’s risk?

a corporate ownership structure, a cohesive crew, compliance with

Andy: A big part of what we do is making sure that the yacht is run

regulations, and prudent cost control. Nick Hill, Partner at Hill Robinson,

in a compliant fashion. Let’s say you’re going to buy yacht ABC, and

and Andy Morgan, Director of Hill Robinson’s corporate services division

you form company ABC Limited. The job of the Hill Robinson corporate

based in the Isle of Man (Hill Robinson Limited), explain how they handle

services division will be to form that company and provide directorship

these considerations so owners can relax and reap the rewards.

services to that company. So then we are personally responsible for making sure that ABC Limited is compliant. We make sure anyone that

Why set up corporate ownership?

you engage to ensure the successful running of the yacht is doing their

Andy: Owners use a corporation primarily for limited liability purposes.

job properly, and reporting to us properly. We scrutinise everything

Let’s say in the worst-case scenario the yacht collided with an oil

because we have the ultimate responsibility for making sure the

tanker; that would come with untold personal liability. In the case

expenditure is accurate and the assets of the company are protected.

of a company, generally speaking, you’re limited to the assets that are held within that company.

How does this fit in with yacht management? Andy: I’m very much on the corporate side of things. Our responsibilities

How do you decide where to set up the ownership structure?

are in-depth on compliance, corporate governance, and making sure

Andy: We specialise in setting up VAT-efficient structures through the

that all the necessary filings are done for the company — the accounting

Isle of Man, Malta and the Cayman Islands. If you’re offering your yacht

records are kept and the financial statements are prepared. The yacht

commercially, you can register your company for VAT and recover VAT

management team is more focused on direct liaison with the crew,

on the basis that you’re undertaking a business: charter operations.

making sure that all maintenance and day-to-day operations of the

Typically, we would structure transactions like that through Malta.

yacht are taken care of.

For non-EU residents with non-EU registration, operating their yacht

What kind of compliance responsibilities does a yacht manager handle?

privately in Europe, typically the Cayman Islands is used — then there’s

Nick: We take responsibility for the technical reliability, the safety

no obligation to account for or pay VAT on the whole value of the yacht

compliance, and the flag and class compliance. So an owner is reducing

when it’s in Europe under a Temporary Admission regime.

his/her risk of problems with flag or port state control by delegating to a responsible and professional yacht manager.

UK clients, post Brexit, now fall under the same criteria as a non-EU resident client and have the ability to avail of Temporary Admission. And that’s opened up some opportunities for the Isle of Man. 40

“ Being a wealthy individual is not easy, believe it or not! Everybody needs something from you, and with so many stakeholders it can be hard to know who to trust. We provide a leaning post as a trusted partner — one reliable vocal point. We have a wealth of knowledge that we can draw on, we work to the Client’s expectations and, usually, we deliver beyond!” KARL HARTMANN PARTNER

How else does yacht management alleviate the stress of ownership?

Getting the right crew structure is about having the right crew contracts

Nick: Owning a yacht should be less hassle and less irritation. Every

in place and making sure that when crew join a boat they get proper

day you have on board should be enjoyable. If there’s a breakdown

training on board. Hill Robinson has a dedicated crew employment

or if the captain spent loads of money repairing or replacing the air

company, employing around 1,500 people. All of our crew have

conditioning, it’s annoying and we should stop that. A yacht manager

consistent contracts compliant with the Maritime Labour Convention.

should reduce costs. We can’t guarantee that everything will be

Each captain is trained in our procedures and one of our compliance

perfect because life’s not perfect, but we should be able to

managers will go on board to observe safety drills. In addition, we offer

reduce the things that annoy the owner.

enhanced on-board training so crew can provide better service to the owner and also improve their career prospects.

Shouldn’t a good captain be able to handle that? Nick: The captain can’t be lawyer, accountant, navigator, and human

How does professional yacht management affect the bottom line?

resources manager. Even a very good captain is not going to be the

Nick: Yacht management is like an additional insurance policy to not

answer to all questions. With their one point of view, they can never

waste money. Many things cost money due to incompetence, laziness,

give a fully balanced answer. With a yacht management company

or time stress. Yacht management can reduce those additional costs

that has a depth of experience and a team of more than just a few

and expenses with due diligence, comparative quotes, and assistance

people, you’ve got balanced judgment and comparative solutions.

to the captain. Say the owner wants the boat in Greece on the first of July — the captain will be stressed to do that quickly and may not be

What is the biggest source of frustration for owners?

concerned with the cost. Yacht management will obviously be checking

Nick: The central hassle is always the hiring and management of

the correct costs, for instance for the chef’s salary and flight to Greece.

crew. The people factor is the biggest challenge. A crew team is made up of a wide variety of qualified people; they’re extremely

Moreover, we (at Hill Robinson) spend more than €200 million a year on

intelligent, well qualified and highly talented. But equally we have

behalf of the yachts we manage, so we have incredible buying power.

to deal with a wide variety of nationalities, cultures, languages,

We get a very, very good price on fuel, and from insurance premiums to

religions and educational levels. So on a 50-metre boat with

provisioning and uniforms, we generally save 20 to 25 per cent on normal

12 or 14 crew, it’s a melting pot. It’s about putting together a

retail prices — and that is a discount that is passed on to the owner.

harmonious team. That’s all down to the captain’s leadership, and not many captains have had real leadership training or

Hill Robinson Limited is licensed by the Isle

real human resource management training.

of Man Financial Services Authority.

BUILDING

BETTER

—— It’s a common understanding that wherever the motoring industry goes, the world of yachting will follow, albeit a few years later. When motoring paved the way for hybrids; yachting followed suit. Likewise, when the automotive world made the shift towards electric, shipyards began developing batteries to power vessels. But while speedy innovation in motoring is made possible due to the millions of cars produced worldwide every year, yachting is a much smaller industry, powered by a relatively small group of owners and shipyards. As a result, progress can be slow and incremental, rather than revolutionary, says Kevin Laverty, Hill Robinson’s director of projects. However, this doesn’t stop designers and naval architects from dreaming. Nowadays, a brand-new yacht concept is unveiled almost every week, each claiming to be more innovative than the last. Designs range from the technically ambitious to the downright mind-boggling — Lazzarini’s swan-shaped Avanguardia, for instance, caused eyes to roll when it was unveiled in 2020. And while, for better or worse, there are no limits to the imaginations of designers, when it comes to the construction of such vessels, innovation has two barriers — owners and regulations. One might create a potentially world-changing concept

Sustainability is a pressing issue in the yachting arena, supported by a growing generation of modern-thinking owners. Kevin says: “Their design briefs are becoming more environmentally aware and there are one or two innovative owners who have built yachts designed for efficiency. Savannah from Feadship is a classic example with a push-pull dieselelectric propulsion arrangement. It’s a really cool way of, as far as you can, reducing your carbon footprint.” A huge advocate for sustainability, Feadship has invested heavily into the research and development of hydrogen and electric propulsion systems. Speaking of Savannah (2015), an 84-metre hybrid superyacht featuring Feadship’s pioneering ‘Breathe’ propulsion technology, director and CEO Henk de Vries says: “So far, it’s the most advanced we’ve done,” adding that it’s his ambition for all new superyacht builds to use only hybrid power or be fully electric by 2025. Also at the top-end of the marketplace are Lürssen, who share this vision. The German shipyard joined forces with Feadship to form the non-profit Water Revolution Foundation (WRF), which aims to create a science-driven approach to yacht building and neutralise the industry’s ecological footprint. From its 1997 hybrid yacht Limitless, to its more recent developments — R&D teams are currently testing the use of fuel cells to create emission-free yachts — Lürssen has already made strides towards this goal.

but if there isn’t an owner to buy into your vision, it won’t get built. Likewise, if it’s not rule-compliant, it’ll never hit the water. This is the challenge that many shipyards are facing, particularly as they push for a ‘greener’ industry. 42

Savannah (2015), an 84-metre hybrid superyacht featuring Feadship’s pioneering ‘Breathe’ propulsion technology.

Building Better

Images Black Pearl (Oceanco) is a ground-breaking project following the lead of Maltese Falcon (Perini Navi), in terms of a big DynaRig.

Building Better

Another WRF partner, Dutch shipyard Heesen Yachts has also been

So, what’s the solution? Kevin suggests that the return of motorsailer

pushing hybrids in recent years. It currently has two on the water:

yachts, which utilise the natural power of the wind, could be a step in

Home (2017), the world’s first hybrid with a super-efficient ‘fast

the right direction. “I think somebody could take some of the innovation

displacement hull form’, which is said to reduce fuel consumption

from Black Pearl (Oceanco), which is a ground-breaking project that

by up to 30%, and Home’s sister ship Amare II (2020).

followed the lead from Maltese Falcon (Perini Navi), in terms of a big DynaRig,” he says. “If you were to take some of that and combine that

While many shipyards are committed to stepping up the game in terms

with some of Savannah’s propulsion technology, that would probably be

of efficiency and sustainability, it’s important that owners are educated,

the biggest single push towards the green agenda that we could make,

too. “I thought after 2016 onward everything would be hybrid powered,

especially if you were innovative in your material choices. It’s the best

but unfortunately things haven’t quite turned out like that yet,” Henk says.

of both worlds.”

“If you break the mould once, people say ‘that’s very interesting’. But I tell them the technology is 10 years old. Often, what’s holding people back

When it comes to construction, shipyards are looking inwards and

is not so much the fear of innovation but the fear of the unknown.”

working on ways to improve production methods, reduce operational impact and improve efficiency, however this is complex due to the nature of the build process. “The way we build big boats remains pretty much the same as it was 30 years ago. It can be improved but the

“I tell them the technology is 10 years old. Often, what’s holding people back is not so much the fear of innovation but the fear of the unknown”

investment will be significant,” says Kevin. “One of the largest expenses is skilled labour. If you had sufficient volume, you would automate and reduce the expensive labour but, of course, it doesn’t translate very well with superyachts because of the uniqueness of every vessel.” Some shipyards are already using automated processes when they have a production vessel. Damen Yachting, for instance, installed automatic and semi-automatic welding machines at its production facilities in Romania. Kevin says: “That works when you’re putting together the basic

“The shipyards have a role to play in advancing ideas to owners, but

fundamental flat panels, but once you start stacking the blocks up to

innovation will only come from the owners,” Kevin adds. “I think the

make the hull, you’re back to a human with a welding torch. That’s still

advice is improving but the quest for innovation needs to be driven

the best way of doing it because the robot just can’t get into the spaces

into the market and driven by the owners.”

that a human can. For now, at least.”

Another hot topic of conversation right now is hydrogen, which some

From shipyard production facilities to designers’ workshops, there are

believe could spell the future of energy. In 2020, Dutch firm Sinot Yacht

plenty of exciting developments in the works but further investment into

& Architecture Design unveiled plans for the world’s first hydrogen-

research and education is needed to bring the yachting industry up to

powered superyacht. Named Aqua, the vessel is designed to run

the pioneering pace of the motoring sector. Watch this space.

entirely on renewable energy. Kevin, however, remains sceptical. “I think we’re only really at the beginning of the hydrogen journey,” he says. “Firstly, we are discovering how we can deploy this interesting ‘new’ fuel in a safe way, given its volatility compared to conventional fuels. Secondly, the infrastructure for large-scale production and distribution of hydrogen as a fuel is in its infancy. Further, the process of hydrogen harvesting by steam methane reforming or similar process derivatives emits carbon dioxide, so isn’t

Written by Rachel Ingram

perhaps as ‘green’ as we might like.”

Home (2017), the world’s first hybrid with a super-efficient ‘fast displacement hull form’.

CORPORATE SERVICES

OPTIMISING THE YACHT OWNING EXPERIENCE —— Owning a superyacht is meant to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Fun, relaxation, new adventures and spending quality time with family and friends in a luxurious setting are all among the benefits associated with ownership.

However, behind achieving such rewards are

The company within the Hill Robinson

Andrew is keen to point to the volume of

a series of key decisions for the beneficial

Group that oversees all this vital input, is

business growth year-on-year. The value of

owner. These predominantly relate to fiscal

the Isle of Man-based Hill Robinson Ltd,

the yacht and aviation portfolio now comes

and operational matters — like having a

which is fully-licenced in this highly regulated

into several billions of pounds.

tax-efficient owning structure; where the

area. It also works with a similarly positioned

yacht is registered, managing the financial

service provider based in Malta, with the

He explains: “Many yacht owners also own

challenges, VAT payments, and having access

latter now the leading registration

aircraft and we often find that engaging on

to the necessary expertise that can minimise

jurisdiction for superyachts.

a yachting structure may lead on to wider structuring conversations. The services

the complexities of yacht ownership, thus Andrew Morgan, who heads up the teams

we offer to yachts and aircraft are not too

within the Hill Robinson Corporate Services

dissimilar and we found the transition into

For Hill Robinson, this area is a crucial element

Division, emphasises the bespoke nature of

aviation structuring to be relatively seamless.

of the services they provide to clients. The

the services provided as the needs of each

We have successfully built the aviation fleet

company offers a comprehensive range of

owner vary according to what they may

over many years and have now extended our

services through its dedicated Corporate

already have in place. Some owners require

services to assisting with the formation of

Services Division, allowing them to meet all

a full package while others just take parts

air operating structures in Malta.”

client requirements in a package that is as

of what is offered. He states: “This unique

bespoke as the yacht itself.

service offering is extremely advantageous

Hill Robinson Limited is licensed by the Isle

for clients. There is exceptional collaboration

of Man Financial Services Authority.

enhancing the pleasures.

The Division might be described as the

between each division and having seamless

‘backroom team’ in meeting the specific needs

lines of communication between different

of superyacht ownership and the particular

departments is imperative when running

challenges it presents but this in no way

a compliant structure.

understates the very frontline role it plays.

The in-house specialists handle all the key

“We see this frequently on a day-to-day

elements: Incorporation, management and

basis where we will collaborate with other

control of tax-efficient ownership structures;

departments on the drafting of legal

the handling of EU VAT, Customs regimes

documents and can ensure that all angles are

and VAT registrations; compliance and EU

covered,“ he adds. “That said, as Directors

importation (allowing free circulation of

of the owning entity, we also need to offer a

vessels in EU waters); provision of professional

degree of independence and scrutinise the

company directors; and all other accounting

work undertaken on behalf of the other service

and professional services.

providers, on behalf of the owning entity.”

Written by David Robinson

“ The services we offer to yachts and aircraft are not too dissimilar and we found the transition into aviation structuring to be relatively seamless.” ANDREW MORGAN DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICES HILL ROBINSON LIMITED

The mission of Moravia Yachting is simple: to match discerning clients with their perfect vessel, with discretion and efficiency, adding the value afforded by our expert knowledge at every opportunity. Our expertise comes from experience and specialised understanding, accrued from years of successful charter bookings and sales transactions delivered with integrity, proficiency, and the close attention to detail that our clients deserve. We achieve this with an unwavering focus on each client’s needs and interests, confidently advising on every facet of their yachting requirements to ensure that their personal yachting experience is expertly fulfilled.

London

Kurt Fraser Sales & Marketing Director Kurt’s vast superyacht industry experience sees him perfectly placed to lead the sales, charter and marketing teams at Moravia Yachting. Having been responsible for the global brand representation of several notable companies and been involved with a number of brokerage sales himself, Canadian-born Kurt is a strategic and dynamic director with a clear vision for Moravia Yachting.

London

Monaco

Andy Holmes

Luisa Alesso

Lea Tintaud

Sales Broker

Charter Broker

With a background in the Royal Navy, an MBA from Imperial College London and extensive experience in investment banking and risk management, Andy’s strategic approach to superyacht sales and his attention to detail are invaluable in helping clients make the right decisions for their yachting ventures.

Raised on the Italian Riviera and now living in France, Luisa’s in-depth knowledge of the superyacht charter fleet ensures clients are matched with the right vessel. Luisa is an integral part of both Moravia Yachting’s retail charter service and charter sales team, and her meticulous organisational skills ensure accurate efficiency every time.

Lea was born in Paris and studied International Relations at the University of Genova, from where she obtained a Masters degree. Lea’s career to date includes a five-year period as a chief stewardess and several years in charter sales. Lea is also the Founder of Helichix – a company offering consultancy, support and advice to female helicopter pilots and engineers.

Fort Lauderdale

Monaco

London and Monaco

Alastair Callender

Lisa Christensen

Adam Papadakis

Charter & Sales Broker

Charter Broker

Senior Sales Broker

Recipient of the award for “Excellence in Innovation” from the International Superyacht Society in 2010, Alastair offers a unique perspective on the global superyacht fleet and has been involved in the charter, sale, marketing or design of over 100 yachts. Alastair is a member of IYBA and MYBA and has a degree in Boat Design with Professional Enhancement attained from Coventry University, UK.

Lisa studied marketing and communication in Singapore. After periods working in both Singapore and London, Lisa returned to her home country of France and is now based in Monaco. Lisa has been part of Moravia Yachting’s charter team since 2017 and, as a keen traveller herself, Lisa excels in creating inspirational and exclusive itineraries for clients.

Adam is a well respected superyacht industry professional with an impressive network of clients and contacts. His 20-year experience has seen him involved with several iconic new build commissions as well as many high-profile superyacht sales. Adam has a Masters degree in Marine Engineering and Naval Architecture and combining his technical acumen with a driven approach to business, has proven a valuable partnership.

Monaco

London

Debbie Marcow

William Molloy

Rob Lander

Charter Broker

Senior Charter Broker

Charter & Sales Broker

Part of the retail charter team, Debbie also has experience in charter management and charter broking. Having worked aboard superyachts as a stewardess, her first-hand experience and knowledge of superyacht hotspots worldwide affords her a valuable insight to both sides of the coin.

William has over 14 years’ experience as a charter broker, with more than 200 completed charters to his name. His early career includes nine years as professional yacht crew and a degree in Maritime Studies helped him turn his passion into a profession.

In addition to his role as a sales and charter broker, Rob has a keen interest in design and engineering and strives to keep himself informed of superyacht industry developments, innovations and trends. A well of information, Rob is able to advise clients on operational costs, compliance and financing.

Moscow & Monaco

Monaco

Roy Posthuma

Darina Posthuma

Niel Gow

Charter Broker

Sales Broker

Roy began his charter broking career in London and can already attest to closing over 100 charters. Based between Russia and the Netherlands, Roy travels throughout Europe to meet with clients and is a regular attendee at shows and events in the South of France.

Darina’s varied experience includes roles in finance, Formula 1 and the yachting industry. She has a degree from the Moscow Financial University and takes a proactive approach to business. Darina has her finger on the pulse of the wider luxury sector, which complements her role as a charter broker.

Niel has a degree in European Business obtained from Portsmouth University and the Ecole Supérieure in Bordeaux, and has first-hand experience working aboard both commercial and private vessels. With over 14 years’ industry experience, Niel’s broad knowledge and international network is integral to his role as a successful sales broker.

Our Services

Our home port of Monaco has taught us the importance of circumspection over size. By embodying the ethos of the Principality we have been entrusted to sell and acquire yachts on behalf of select clientele. In essence, Moravia promises discretion and yachting prowess for exacting owners, with a heightened understanding of service excellence.

Please contact one of our Charter or Sales Brokers for more information and to discuss your personal requirements.

MONACO

FORT LAUDERDALE

PALM BEACH

8 Quai Antoine 1er, Monte Carlo MC 98000, Monaco

1845 Cordova Road, Suite 212 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA

2010 Avenue B, West Palm Beach FL 33404, USA

+377 9310 2929

+1 954 792 6112

www.moraviayachting.mc

The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation

STRIVING FOR EQUALITY Written by Julia Zaltzman

Striving for Change

“H.S.H. Princess Charlene genuinely believes in sport as a wonderful driving force and a great opportunity for children”

—— For former Olympic swimmer H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco, setting up a Foundation that saves lives by fighting against drowning was not only a natural evolution to her career, but a necessary step. Established in December 2012, the eponymous Foundation tackles hazards around water on a global scale. Having grown up in South Africa where she witnessed the devastating reality of drowning numerous times, advocating awareness around the world is central to her vision. “My sister’s time as a professional swimmer made Her recognise the positive changes sport can bring to one's life, if you consider the values that come with it,” says Gareth Wittstock, Secretary General of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. “In a way, you could say that the Foundation was created as a powerful union between Her past career as an Olympic athlete and Her present responsibility, as Princess of Monaco, to inspire others and to champion a cause She holds dear to Her heart.” Within the first five years of launching, the Foundation had reached over 500,000 people in 33 countries. By partnering and collaborating with international organisations that share its goals, the Foundation develops education programmes to bring sport and swimming lessons to even the most remote and impoverished regions. In 2021, the Foundation has sustained the funding of projects in Monaco and France, as well as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ghana, Greece, Haïti, Japan, Senegal, Serbia and Sri Lanka. “In many areas of the world, children are not always offered the best chances,” says Gareth. “Too many children die from drowning every year because they don’t know how to swim, even though just a few swimming lessons could save their lives and help them feel more comfortable and confident in the water. The Foundation is lucky to always be able to count on the unfaltering support of its most fervent supporters and donators. It is thanks to them that the Foundation can 58

keep striving for a more just world for all children.”

To increase public awareness about its mission, raise funds for its projects and to set an example through the values of sport, the Foundation organises large-scale events every year. Headquartered in the yachting hub of Monaco, amidst of the Côte d’Azur and on the doorstep of the Mediterranean Sea, it is only natural that sailing and swimming events form a core part of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation’s activities. However, the Foundation’s Sport & Education programme caters to all sports. “H.S.H. Princess Charlene genuinely believes in sport as a wonderful driving force and a great opportunity for children,” says Gareth. “Thanks to our family’s long-standing passion for rugby, that game is naturally the figurehead of the Sport & Education programme.” Alongside the Fédération Monégasque de Rugby, the Foundation also organises Tournoi Sainte Dévote in Monaco. The 2019 under-12 rugby tournament welcomed 17 teams from 14 different nations. The Foundation also plans to host the Princess of Monaco Cup, a golf tournament, in 2021; a celebrity cup played with 18 teams in the ‘Scramble’ format. It raised enough donations in its first year in 2019 to renovate the Princess Charlene Municipal Pool in La Turbie and offer swimming lessons at Awutu Breku High School in Ghana. Out of all the initiatives that the Foundation allies with, supports and launches, there is one event that fully embodies its raison d’etre: The Water Bike Challenge. Established in 2017 and now the Foundation's flagship event, it typically involves mixed teams of professional athletes and amateurs competing on Schiller S1-C water bikes in a relay race covering a 21 kilometre loop in front of Monaco harbour’s sea wall. “The Water Bike Challenge has come to represent the Foundation and what it stands for, conveying the values of sportsmanship, camaraderie and good character,” says Gareth.

I N PR OFI L E

O’PTASIA F O R C H ART E R

YEAR

2018

BUILDER

GOLDEN YACHTS

LENGTH

85M (279')

GUESTS

CABINS

N AT U R A L S E L E CT I O N

Written by Roxanne Hughes

—— Design is often influenced by nature, whether observed from a nano, micro, macro, or mega perspective, and particularly so when it comes to yacht design; where the natural world heavily influences both the exterior and interior design as well as the yacht’s end usage and owner enjoyment.

The stunning artwork has a dark blue birds-eye maple background with shaded areas inlaid, and over six thousand resin dots, metalized with Dubai gold, represent the Milky Way galaxy. At the centre of the piece is a cluster of polished 23-carat almond-gold inlays, which represent the visible star constellations of the Northern Hemisphere. The larger background stars comprise 326 mother-of-pearl and 635 pāua shell dots in varying sizes. Another example of Silverlining’s natural leanings is their Antelope Cabinet, the pattern and colour of which is inspired by the wind-eroded sculptural shapes and rock striations of Antelope Canyon in Arizona, USA.

It was the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen who said, “There is no better designer than nature” and Albert Einstein is quoted as saying

Many of the workshop’s developments in patterns, structures, materials,

“Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better” —

and luxury finishes all come from studying the science of nature,

sentiments that luxury furniture designer, Silverlining, wholeheartedly

evidenced in another recent commission; the Torricelli Cabinet.

agree with. The design celebrates the Fibonacci sequence, the sequential As a company, Silverlining work in close collaboration with nature,

mathematical pattern that is found in all manner of natural guises.

generating creative ideas and pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship

Each number in the Fibonacci sequence is the sum of the two preceding

and finish. Even to the untrained eye, it’s clear that the wonders of our

numbers: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55… and so on. Known as ‘nature’s

world inspire their designs — from tiered rice terraces in China and

secret code,’ the sequence is widely seen in the naturally occurring

canyons in USA, to molten lava from a Hawaiian volcano eruption,

patterns of flowers, fruit and shells. One example is the spiral arrangement

flowing water and the night sky; shapes, tones and textures bearing

of seeds in a sunflower head: If you divide the spirals into those curving

resemblance to these natural wonders can be identified.

left and those right, you get two consecutive Fibonacci numbers such as 34 and 55 — or 89 and 144 for a larger sunflower.

One of the company’s most recent commissions is a constellation

artwork, which was developed in collaboration with Winch Design for

The cabinet’s transitioning ochre hues and the marquetry pattern of

MY Neninka. The piece celebrates our world and its chance positioning

the rippled sycamore celebrate two characteristics of sunflowers —

in space, through an inspirational snapshot of the night sky.

their colour and the Fibonacci sequence.

Natural Selection

“ Sustainability has been a key consideration not only when choosing the materials we work with, but also when finding ways of working with waste and implementing sustainable processes.” MARK BODDINGTON FOUNDER — SILVERLINING

Silverlining’s ‘Antelope Cabinet’ – inspired by the wind-eroded sculptural shapes and rock striations of Antelope Canyon in Arizona.

Another Silverlining design, the Hortensia Breakfast Table, is made from dyed woods and metal, and features mother of pearl marquetry inspired by the colours and shapes of the Hortensia (Hydrangea) plant’s flower. The marquetry technique required extensive development and the process for transitional wood dyeing had to be perfected. This is where the wood’s colour is changed from blue to black, touching on every shade in between. In addition, the technique required exacting precision to cut and inlay the silver petal edges and central white mother of pearl ‘Pistil’ inlays. Silverlining have continued their exploration into natural materials and processes, with extensive research and development currently underway. Sustainable wood bleaching using salt and UV light is one such example — both found in abundance in nature and beautifully non-toxic, as is the development of waxes derived from citrus fruit skins, which also have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Mark Boddington, founder of Silverlining Furniture comments: “Sustainability has been a key consideration not only when choosing the materials we work with, but also when finding ways of working with waste and implementing sustainable processes. For the past few years, we have been working closely with Bangor University‘s Bio-Composites Centre towards achieving new and fully sustainable techniques for wood and plant fibre bleaching, bonding, dyeing and finishing. The Research and Development team is also in regular contact with the University of Leeds and Brunel University London to improve our understanding of sustainable processes and see how we can implement these in our furniture making.” Every year, the company launches a new collection to showcase their creative ideas and newly crafted techniques, which then transform into live furniture projects for land, sea and air. Established for over 35 years, the company is renowned for its passionate creativity and dedication to craftsmanship. Today, Silverlining can proudly claim to have produced pieces that rest in situ within palaces and prestigious private residences, adorn the saloons of superyachts

Elements of Time Their recent ‘Elements of Time’ collection explored the use of waste or rejected materials using new techniques to create finishes that the Silverlining team sees as ‘neo-luxury’ — designs that are kind to the planet and mindful of the natural resources, whilst being visually stunning. Silverlining’s ‘Big Bang’ concept is a result of investigation into how to create decorative finishes from small fragments of wood veneer and other leftover materials. These elements can be seen at the centre of the design, surrounded by rhomboid shapes of blue-dyed quilted maple, rippled sycamore, and myrtle wood veneer. The fragments are retrieved from the wood waste of laser cutting and suspended in bio-resin derived as a bi-product from corn and soya. The concept is currently being developed into two artworks.

and bring aesthetic delight to clients all over the world.

T O P F L I G H T S E R V I C E 66

Top Flight Service

—— The origins of what is now the Hill Robinson Aviation division date back some five years to a particular request from an owner. In the period since, the aviation activities of the Hill Robinson Group have expanded and graduated into an all-encompassing Division that handles all aspects of aviation and the complementary relationship that is now commonplace between superyachts, private jets and helicopters.

Hill Robinson Aviation is effectively an airline within a full yacht services provider. The Division has the ability to deal with buying, managing, operating, charter, crewing and the maintenance of aircraft be they amphibious, fixed wing or helicopters.

“Hill Robinson Aviation currently manages a fleet of nine aircraft as a mix of fixed and rotor wing but additionally charters in other aircraft to meet the specific requirements of clients”

The use of private jets by superyacht owners is a well-

The Division provides a portfolio of services for the

established practice but what has been steadily increasing

movement of owners and guests to and from yachts,

over recent years is the number of superyachts that have

be it for a charter or an owner and their family;

helicopters on board. This growth has been in parallel with the

the movement of crew to and from a yacht, or the

expansion of the Hill Robinson Aviation division and helicopters

transportation of equipment and supplies to a yacht.

are now a significant part of the Division’s operations.

Thanks to the Division’s global capabilities and operation, location never need be an issue.

According to Hill Robinson Partner, Karl Hartmann, the overall objective of the Division is to be “a one-stop service

Brett Dutton, a Senior Aviation Manager within Hill

as an end-to-end supplier and stakeholder in meeting the

Robinson Aviation, spoke of the challenges that the COVID

specific needs of clients. If you wish to fly to your boat,

pandemic had presented, especially with the restrictions

call us to organise your transport.”

on travel for owners, guests, crew and company personnel.

he number of superyachts that have helicopters T on board has steadily increased over recent years.

Top Flight Service

He remarked: “2020 presented many new and complex

The current focus of the Division is on refining its service

issues. We had to find solutions for getting crew to yachts

provision. Brett commented: “We are working to further

and securing flight personnel, but the year has helped us

develop charter options for existing customers and expand

establish clear structures and fix any shortcomings of

into aircraft management for new customers, as well as

the past.”

adding to our existing activities generally.”

Brett explains that in addition to coping with private jet

Part of Hill Robinson Aviation’s on-going strategy includes

flights and helicopter operations, the Division had been

special projects with a number of aircraft manufacturers

involved in a number of logistical movements, which had

including Airbus, Bell, Boeing, Bombardier, Gulfstream,

included the use of aircraft such as the huge Antonov 124.

Leonardo, Sikorsky and Viking. It also works increasingly with the other parts of Hill Robinson such as the

Hill Robinson Aviation currently manages a fleet of nine

Corporate Services division.

aircraft as a mix of fixed and rotor wing but additionally charters in other aircraft to meet the specific requirements of clients. Brett points to providing the type of aircraft that particular clients, especially American, European or Russian, for example, prefer. The Division also works with aircraft owned by clients. Handling the Division’s operations is a team of four with a fifth member joining soon. In addition to these in-house specialists, Hill Robinson Aviation can also call upon other professionals such as pilots, engineers and operation experts.

Written by David Robinson

P A L A Superyacht Hub —— The Balearics have long since emerged from the shadows of the South of France and cemented themselves as a preferred destination for superyachts.

Written by Sarah Forge 72

M A 73

Palma: A Superyacht Hub

—— A handy barometer for growth is the annual Palma Superyacht Show, which gathers strength each year and celebrated its eighth edition in June 2021. The Show makes a suitable bedfellow for The Superyacht Cup, the longest-running superyacht regatta in Europe, which marks its 25th anniversary in 2021.

Multitudinous reasons contribute to Mallorca’s

Like Mark, most base themselves at Mallorca’s

James Line, Captain of 32-metre MY Astralium,

appeal — attractive scenery, heart-of-the-

STP Shipyard in Palma (Servicios Técnicos

agrees with Mark: “STP is an outstanding

Mediterranean accessibility, a reliably warm

Portuarios) — one of Europe’s leading facilities.

facility that services vessels up to 120 metres in length and 1,000 tonnes in weight. It’s

climate, and high-end infrastructure, to name but a few — although it’s perhaps the

Mark continues: “STP is an ‘open’ model

refreshing, for example, not to be restricted

established refit and repair sector that carries

whereby we can choose which trades we work

to one paint company who’ve got special

most weight for floating assets.

with — more than 500 specialist high-end

dispensation to work in the shipyard. You have

companies are registered to work in STP —

freedom to choose. The same goes for Port

According to the Spanish Association of Large Yachts (AEGY), 49% of owners who bring their yachts to the Balearics each year do so to carry out maintenance. This activity fuels the economy of the islands, creating stable employment with the shipyards generating over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs between them, along with a €150 million annual turnover, while, the marine industry as a whole, produces over €400 million for the islands.

49%

OWNERS BRING THEIR YACHTS TO THE BALEARICS EACH YEAR TO CARRY OUT MAINTENANCE

should be based,” says Mark Stevens, Captain of 52-metre SY Red Dragon. “In this case, I am a captain who has made the decision on behalf of the owner and, as we run a summer-only programme, my preference is to conduct our winter work schedule in Mallorca.”

facility with few restrictions.” Sailing yachts are particularly well served in Palma. Nico Jacklein, of 47-metre Hyperion, is certainly a fan: “If we’re in Europe, Palma is where we choose to base the boat. Servicewise, it’s reassuring to know exactly what you’re going to get — especially for sailboats. Supply isn’t an issue; in fact, Mallorca has reached somewhat of a critical mass. As more sailing yachts breezed in, more companies

“Typically, it’s either us captains or the owner who makes a decision as to where the yacht

Adriano just down the coast, another modern

and we don’t have to shell out 15% commission for a shipyard manager. Trust me, this is a big saving. I have done my due diligence, looking at the UK, Italy and Spanish mainland, and Palma knocks it out of the park every time. The negative is that dockage is pricey, and can be hard to find, but it’s far from a deal-breaker.”

appeared on the scene, therefore it’s certainly worth seeking out trusted local representation to navigate which companies are the best.”

“ If we’re in Europe, Palma is where we choose to base the boat. Service-wise, it’s reassuring to know exactly what you’re going to get — especially for sailboats.” NICO JACKLEIN SY HYPERION

Palma: A Superyacht Hub

It seems many captains actively choose

James Butters, Captain of 43-metre support

This myriad of activities and value for money,

shipyards in the Palma area, over and above

boat MY Solution, agrees on the variety offered

prompts many captains to call the island

their European counterparts. The services are

by the island: “With only one day off a week,

home. “I’ve been settled in Mallorca for six

so good and the smaller scale of the island means

we don’t have boundless time to savour the

or seven years now, and it really is the

everyone’s ten minutes away — offering the

delights that Mallorca has to offer, but the

superyacht hub of the Mediterranean,” says

luxury of convenience.

catchword is diversity — diversity in the range

James. “It’s the ideal place for running into

of activities and diversity in the number of

and catching up with friendly faces from

cultures represented here.”

across the industry, and great for training

There was also unanimous appreciation for

courses. For crew, it’s always a highlight to

Mallorca’s recreational and leisure facilities. Sarah Kemp, Business and Marketing

“Everyone loves Mallorca,” says Nico. “The

Coordinator for Hill Robinson España, adds:

island has so much to offer, from caving to

“Palma was recently voted ‘the best place to live

stand-up paddleboarding. Even if moorings

in the world’. It has a picturesque and historic

are expensive here, and ordinarily they are,

old city, and beaches within walking distance.

it’s worth it to boost crew morale. Mallorca

With over 300 days of sunshine, the island has

is a happy place where life is easy and good.

everything one could possibly want. The office

And, if crew want to get home, the flight

here in Palma offers our clients personal daily

connections are more than decent.”

support, which is made so much easier by having all the key marinas in the same area.”

wrap-up or start the season in Mallorca.”

S U P E R S C U B A —— How would you invest $100,000? In 2016 the Mayor of Aydin, on Turkey’s Aegean coast, purchased an obsolete Airbus A300. The Mayor then asked that her newly acquired 55-metre-long passenger jet, with its 44-metre wingspan, be stripped and sunk in the crystalline sea.

Written by Tristan Rutherford

S U P E R S C U B A

Five years on, the Mayor’s Airbus is a scuba site par excellence. Scuba

It’s only in recent years that technology has opened the ocean to

divers embark via a hole in the fuselage — no boarding pass required —

marine explorers. Take electronic rebreather apparatus, which were

and other ‘passengers’ include spiny lobsters and black bream, as well

pioneered by the US Navy’s Experimental Diving Unit, among other

as silverine leerfish that shoal like a ghostly mirror. In the Airbus A300

James Bond inventions. Rebreathers allow divers to scuba stealthily for

cockpit, radar screens and thrust levers have been removed and only the

up to six hours, without leaving a chain of air bubbles behind. A dozen

three pilot seats remain. Needless to say, these seats make the ultimate

gadgets, from self-propelled monofins to sea scooters, can assist

Instagram post for veterans of the world’s longest airplane dive.

further. One of the latest devices to hit the market is a FIFISH — the world’s first 4K submersible drone, which allows divers to live stream

Innovative dive sites like this decorate yachting destinations all around

their swim in high definition, illuminated by 4,000-lumen underwater

the world. Like the sunken B-24 Liberator bomber near Vis, Croatia,

stage lights.

which has become an aquarium for yellow seafans and red snappers. Just off Oslo, Norway, the underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor

Today no destination is off limits. Diving locations once deemed

has tethered buoyant statues to the seabed by an ‘umbilical cord’ of

geographically impractical, or politically impossible, are within the

flexible steel. These statues float like phantoms in the tide. They can be

bounds of contemporary explorer yachts. Silfra, in Iceland, is one

snorkelled in summer or more adventurous visitors can dive the site in

example. Here, the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates have fissured apart. This has left a deep canyon in the earth’s crust, which can be both dived and snorkelled. Underwater explorers will be able to spot underwater springs and prehistoric-looking fish, known as Arctic char. The sea visibility at Silfra is 100 metres — possibly the clearest

“Today no destination is off limits. Diving locations once deemed geographically impractical, or politically impossible, are within the bounds of contemporary explorer yachts”

on the planet. Or take Qiandao Lake in China. The ‘Chinese Atlantis’ was formed in 1959 when a hydroelectric dam flooded and submerged 1,400-year-old ruins. Temple reliefs, dragon carvings and relics of the Tang Dynasty’s sunken Lion City will leave divers awestruck. Some dive sites have only recently become accessible, thanks to the emergence of the explorer yacht. One such site is Sipadan, deep in the Celebes Sea between Malaysia and The Philippines. A favourite location of Jacques Cousteau, the island was formed when living coral colonised

winter, when a hole is cut into the Norwegian ice to permit access. By every measure, the oceans are exploration’s final frontier. They contain the world’s longest mountain chain — in the mid-Atlantic — as well as more historical artefacts than are held by all the museums in the world combined. Yet only 5% of the seabed has been explored to modern scientific standards.

an extinct volcanic cone. Here ‘Whitetip Avenue’ is where gunmetal grey sharks hunt against a backdrop of purple sea fans and at ‘Staghorn Crest’ the coral rivals Singapore’s Botanical Garden for colour. This single lonely island hosts nearly 1,000 species of reef fish — ranking it among the most biodiverse places on the planet. Place the task of obtaining a rare permit to dive Sipadan in the hands of a Hill Robinson charter specialist, and you won’t be disappointed.

Super Scuba

ipadan, located in the Celebes Sea S between Malaysia and The Philippines. he submerged work of sculptor T Jason deCaires Taylor. diver swimming amongst a large A school of barracudas in Sipadan.

Super Scuba

The Red Sea has become another leading diving go-to. Not least as Saudi Arabia’s 1,500-kilometre western shoreline opens to luxury tourism. This strategic sea shelters the world’s greatest wreck dives. Like the 158-metre SS Umbria. In May 1940, as Italy entered World War II, the SS Umbria was deliberately sunk by her captain along with 100 tons of weapons, three vintage FIAT cars, several pizza ovens and hundreds of bottles of wine. Now a playground for butterfly fish, triggerfish, dolphins and wrasse, the Umbria remains utterly intact off the Sudan Coast.

“As Italy entered World War II, the SS Umbria was deliberately sunk by her captain along with 100 tons of weapons, three vintage FIAT cars, several pizza ovens and hundreds of bottles of wine”

Jacques Cousteau The man who kick-started the scuba diving revolution was Jacques Cousteau. Taking diving tech to the outer There’s just one caveat: Exploring the world’s most exciting dive sites

reaches of the world was the Frenchman’s credo. Cousteau

requires the support of a finely equipped yacht. Sudan, Malaysia, Iceland

essentially invented the explorer yacht, when he chartered

and other emerging destinations are bereft of yachting infrastructure. If

the 42m Royal Navy minesweeper Calypso from British

you wish to dive, you’ll require your own divemaster, captain and crew,

business magnate Loel Guinness. The fee? A token sum

as well as the barest essentials like food, water and fuel. Indonesia is a

of 1 French Franc per year.

case in point. The archipelago’s 17,000 islands are so distant that they are being explored by yachts at a glacial pace. Indeed, diving a new

Cousteau (who also created the aqualung, the world’s

Indonesian island every day would take 46 years.

first scuba device) kitted out the Calypso with even more inventions, such as a private two-person ‘flying saucer’

Can diving put a destination on the map? Just ask Turkey. Last year

submersible and a rudimentary sea scooter that looked

authorities sunk another, larger Airbus — a 65 metre-long A330 — in the

— and behaved — like a giant yellow torpedo. By creating

Aegean Sea. It will soon open as the world’s longest airplane wreck dive.

120 diving documentaries, Cousteau became the world’s

Although you may find that amberjacks and scorpion fish might have

first ‘diving influencer’, half a century before the term was

checked in before you.

coined. He inspired a generation of divers, while his TV shows are still syndicated globally today. Cousteau adored the Sudanese Red Sea so much that he lived in it. In 1963 the French diver built Precontinent II. This starfish-shaped ‘underwater colony’ tested humans’ ability to operate in a watery world of blacktail sharks and shimmering glassfish. The base had food, electricity and air piped in from above. Cousteau’s documentary film of the project, World Without Sun, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary the following year. The remains of Precontinent II, guarded by red sponges and parrotfish, can be dived today. In the Frenchman’s words: “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

Divers exploring the depths in Vis, Croatia.

TREASURES OF ARABIA As the ancient kingdom of Saudi Arabia opens up its secret wonders to international tourism, we take a look at the hidden treasures of this seldom-explored tribal nomadic nation.

Written by Marina Mici

Treasures of Arabia

—— From the green mountains of Asir and the shifting sands of the Empty Quarter, to the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, there is much more to Saudi Arabia than Islam and oil. Blending centuries-old customs and civilisation with modern riches, the landscape and vibrant culture of this well-known global powerhouse have long been kept out of sight, closed to foreign tourists with the exception of Muslims making their pilgrimage to Mecca. Just over a year ago, the Kingdom lifted its veil and finally opted to allow foreign travellers inside the Kingdom, permitting them to discover a treasure trove of unique landscapes and cultural sites. Saudi Arabia’s attractions range from pristine cruising grounds and sub-tropical atolls on the marine side, to desert-trekking, volcanoes and traditional Saudi life on land. For those looking to experience something genuinely special and access off-the-beaten-track adventure, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia holds the key.

Scuba dive the Red Sea Most people think of Saudi Arabia as a huge expanse of desert, but with over 1,000 miles of coastline along the Red Sea coast, the opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling are plentiful. Home to thriving coral reefs, wrecks and diverse pelagic marine life, many dive sites are still relatively unknown and Saudi is becoming something of a secret hotspot among scuba aficionados. Explore wrecks such as the Boiler Wreck and Ann Ann Wreck (both of which are suitable for beginners and advanced divers alike), or the great coral walls and small reefs that pepper the Farasan Banks on the southern coast. On just about any dive you will see stingrays, all manner of sub-tropical fish and a variety of sharks, including the elusive whale shark. Hike to the Edge of the World Just an hour’s drive (4x4 required) from the capital Riyadh lies a massive swathe of rocky desert escarpment known locally as “The Edge of the World”. Arguably the ultimate desert hiking experience, here you can trek through the Acacia Valley to the edge of these aptly named 300-metre high cliffs, where the views are apparently so awe inspiring that it feels like the edge of the world. Explore the Mars-like desert surface and discover Faisal’s Finger — a towering rocky structure rising more than 200 metres from the bottom of the desert plain. A series of hiking trails weave around this striking rock formation, providing more

Just an hour’s drive from the capital Riyadh lies a massive swathe of rocky desert escarpment known locally as “The Edge of the World”

rewarding views for the intrepid explorer and some amazing pictures to take home. Soak up Saudi culture Known as the gateway to Mecca, the historic city of Jeddah is worth a visit in its own right. The second largest city in Saudi Arabia and the largest sea port on the Red Sea, history literally oozes from its ancient

Island hop around Umluj Often referred to as the Maldives of the Middle East, the small coastal town of Umluj and the nearby islands were seemingly made for the waterborne. The waters lapping the palm-covered beaches are home to coral reefs comprising more than 300 species of hard coral (four times the number found in the Caribbean) and 1,200-plus species of fish (around 10% of which are unique to the area), 44 species of shark, hawksbill turtles and dugong marine cows. The most popular islands

streets and has seen it added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. Red Sea coral-coloured buildings line the historical area of Al-Balad (The Town), while the bustling Souq Al Alawi encapsulates the rich mix of influences and traditions that once flourished on this important trade route. Wander the winding alleyways taking in the scent of spices and oils, and peruse the market stalls selling everything from local crafts and textiles to handmade jewellery and perfumes from the Orient. Aim for sunset when the call to prayer fills the lanes and it is often a little cooler.

are Un Sahar and Libana, the latter of which is also part of the Red Sea Project that encompasses an archipelago of more than 90 islands lying between Umluj and the city of Al Wajh.

All photography by Matt Porteous at The Studio_M, provided courtesy of Pelorus.

There are over 100 tombs in the desert regions of Alula and Hegra.

Treasures of Arabia

Journey back in time

Camel Beauty Pageant

Journey to the otherworldly desert region of Alula and immerse yourself

Step back in time with a visit to the world’s largest camel market at

into the ancient Nabataean way of life at sites throughout Hegra —

Buraydah, where literally thousands of camels, goats and sheep are

the principal southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom and Saudi Arabia’s

traded every day by the local Bedouin tribesmen. February sees the

first UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is home to over 100 tombs,

month-long Camel Festival in the Dahana Desert near Riyadh, which

including the iconic Tomb of Lihyan Son of Kuza, Jabal Ithlib, The Diwan,

also includes the highly prized camel beauty contest. This pageant is

and Jabal Alhama, all important historical figures in Saudi’s past. Dig for

the highlight of the festival with more than 30,000 camels parading

artefacts alongside archaeologists still excavating the site and explore

in front of judges who judge which camel is the most comely.

the ancient settlement’s 200,000 years of human history. Bedouin glamping in the desert Surf sand dunes

Hegra is also a great place for desert stargazing. Far from the city lights

Lying to the southwest of Riyadh, the Khararah National Park features

and surrounded by mystical rock formations, the vast open landscape

miles and miles of sand dunes, perfect for sand boarding. The park is

offers total tranquillity. Sleep under a blanket of stars in a Bedouin-

situated next to the famous Red Sand Dunes, another popular site for

inspired encampment flanked by the dunes just beyond Alula Old Town.

boarding and other adrenaline-fuelled desert activities like quad biking.

As night falls, snuggle up in front of the campfire and get an eyeful of

Khararah is the perfect place to experience Saudi’s desert landscape

the night sky presenting, quite literally, a carpet of stars that few will

and gives visitors a window onto the Kingdom’s Empty Quarter; the

have seen before.

world’s largest sand desert. This 250,000-square-mile desert is one of the world’s least populated areas and covers more than a quarter

One thing is certain; Saudi offers a diverse spectrum of adventures

of Saudi Arabia’s surface area, boasting sand elevations of more than

that only a lucky few will have encountered before you.

500 metres in a landscape reminiscent of Luke Skywalker’s home planet of Tatooine in the Star Wars saga. Entering the Empty Quarter alone without a qualified local guide is not advised!

THE

RED SEA RIVIERA

THE NEW FRONTIER FOR ELITE YACHTING

Written by John Pagano

—— Just a short distance from the Mediterranean, through the Suez Canal, lies the pristine coastline of the Red Sea in north west Saudi Arabia. Along a section of that coastline, which stretches for 450 kilometres, are three unique resorts – AMAALA, NEOM and The Red Sea Project. Set to open in 2023, together they will redefine sustainable, luxury travel and make the ‘Red Sea Riviera’ the essential new destination for the elite yachting community.

Understanding the essence of yachting has played a pivotal role in the creation of the new resorts, particularly at AMAALA — an ultra-luxury destination inspired by the arts, wellness and purity of the Red Sea. The marina will offer berths for some of the largest yachts in the world (up to 180 metres) and provide a secure haven for yachts transiting the Red Sea or exploring Saudi’s pristine shoreline. The Experience AMAALA’s offering centres around three journeys — Events, Lifestyle and Underwater. John Pagano, CEO of The Red Sea Development Company and AMAALA, is keen to highlight the array of yachting occasions intended to take place, “As an event-driven destination, AMAALA will become a key location on the yachting calendar, hosting and supporting yachting events, from boat shows and regattas to gala awards and owner rendezvous.” Predictable weather conditions, dominated by sea breezes

Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea is a largely untouched world of rich

and anabatic winds, provide consistent sailing opportunities, without

experiences. Perfectly placed for all year-round activities, with

the risk of ocean-induced storms. Under the terraces of the AMAALA

stunning topography, clear waters and coral reefs teeming with

Yacht Club in Triple Bay, the event-focussed marina will accommodate

marine life, it is a dream for the elite yachting community. The

yachts up to 140 metres in length.

new Red Sea resorts will enhance this precious environment, with

sustainable development at their core. From NEOM’s offshore islands

“Signature events aside, the coastline of AMAALA and its numerous marina

to AMAALA’s iconic yacht club and regatta venues, and The Red Sea

hubs will entice an active sailing and yacht charter community,” adds John.

Project’s archipelago of more than 90 pristine islands, every aspect

“This will support resort guests and property residents with offshore reef

has been designed in perfect harmony with the natural world.

moorings, boutique marine berthing, sunset cruises and onboard dining.”

The Red Sea Riviera

The AMAALA Yacht Club in Triple Bay has been designed by HKS Architects.

The natural underwater environment is one of the principal gems of this

complement the VIP experience with yacht guests able to arrive by

coastline, offering some of the best Red Sea diving due to the mixture of

tender into a discreet porte cochere, with direct lift access to all floors,

shallow offshore reefs, cliff faces, deep water coral and seafloor depths

including the Skylounge — a private rental day suite secluded in the

of over 800 metres. From snorkelling, free diving and scuba diving to

uppermost corner of the yacht club and with spectacular views of

exploration by personal submarine, there are multiple opportunities

both the sea and mountain range.

for all leisure and academic underwater enthusiasts. Adhering to AMAALA’s purpose of creating positive sustainable practices and embracing the growing appetite of yacht owners for alternative energy propulsion, all marinas have electric Fast Chargers to serve

“It’s an ambition of AMAALA to setup dedicated research facilities that will support scientists along the coastline protecting and conserving the local ecosystem. There are plans to establish curated tours and expeditions with these research teams, while yachts with their own dive centres or submarines will also be able to venture into the blue”

electric-powered boats, and all water taxis, ferries and service vessels are commissioned as hybrid or non-carbon fuelled, with the futureproofed ability to change power plants as technology increases in marine propulsion efficiencies. Regenerative and sustainable tourism practices are fundamental to every new development along the Red Sea coastline, implementing carefully planned measures to improve the natural environment beyond just maintaining the status quo. Only 1.5 million visitors will be allowed to stay at the Red Sea Project and AMAALA per year, making this not only a luxurious adventure but also an exclusive one.

Yacht Club The AMAALA Yacht Club in Triple Bay will assert its presence as the home of yachting in the region. Designed by HKS Architects, its structural form was inspired by the foreshore, naturally eroded by the repetitive lapping of the Red Sea waves. Set over three floors, it will 97

I N PR OFI L E

O’PARI F O R CH ART E R

YEAR

2020

BUILDER

GOLDEN YACHTS

LENGTH

95M (311'8")

GUESTS

CABINS

IONIAN ISLAND BLISS —— Located on the western coast of Greece, the Ionian Islands are one GREECE of the most picturesque regions in the Mediterranean, offering a lush landscape of verdant pine forests, olive groves and beaches. Calm and predictable conditions, a turquoise sea and many secluded bays make this region perfect yachting territory.

Corfu 27nm

GREECE

Paxos

7nm 3

Anti Paxos

30nm

History paves the streets of Corfu and the islands of Paxos, Meganisi and Ithaca boast pretty harbour towns filled with traditional tavernas serving fresh, local cuisine. From cultural excursions to fine dining, water sports and scuba diving, there is something for everyone in this stunning island chain.

Levkas

12nm 5

Like other destinations in the Mediterranean, Greece’s

17nm

tourist season reaches its peak during the months of June, 6

July and August. To escape the crowds and experience cooler yet still pleasant temperatures, consider visiting in May, September or October.

Meganisi

Ithaca 22nm

Cephalonia

38nm

Written by Roxanne Hughes 100

Zakynthos N

Egremni Beach, Levkas.

101

Ionian Island Bliss

DAY

1 CORFU Corfu is an island rich in history and tradition.

Other places of interest include the various

The many conquerors that arrived on the island

medieval castles and monasteries and the hill top

throughout the centuries, including the British and

point of Kanoni, which overlooks the town and

Italians, left an indelible mark on the local culture

offers wonderful views towards the small

and this influx of influence is particularly evident

church of Vlacherna and Mouse Island.

in the town’s architecture and cuisine. An afternoon of water sports is best enjoyed off In the Old Town, two Venetian fortresses assert an

Paleokastritsa beach, where the waters are crystal

imposing presence alongside the various museums,

clear and protected from the wind. Above the beach

Orthodox cathedral and the church of Agios Spyridon

sits the village of Lakones with its 18th century stone

— protector of the island. For the town’s best cafes

houses and incredible views.

and restaurants, head to Liston Street — a paved street that is a copy of the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

“For the town’s best cafes and restaurants, head to Liston Street”

102

PAXOS Paxos is famed for its beautiful beaches and multitude of secluded bays. A key attraction of this island is in fact its size; it’s just 6.2 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, meaning you can easily walk from one side to the other. The western coast is largely uninhabited and dramatic limestone cliffs drop onto white shingle beaches, creating large caves that bite into the bright blue water. Along its eastern coast, the smaller islands of Panagia, Agios Nikolaos, Mongonissi and Kaltsonissi are just a stone’s throw away — great for exploring by tender. Paxos’ capital town, Gaios, curls around the natural harbour and this is where much of the island’s activity takes place. Despite being the capital, the town is still relatively small and narrow alleyways of 19th century Venetian buildings stretch back from the port towards

The colourful streets of Paxos.

the inland olive groves.

DAY

103

ANTI PAXOS Just a mile wide (1.5km) and two miles (3km) long, Anti Paxos is the smallest of the Ionian island chain and lies one mile south of Paxos. Known for its natural beauty, plentiful vegetation and gorgeous white-sand beaches, Anti Paxos is a quiet and remote paradise. Vrika and Voutoumi are the two main beaches, and both are idyllic anchorages for a lazy lunch on board or an afternoon of swimming and snorkelling. If you fancy lunching ashore, climb the 200 steps from Voutoumi beach up to the Bella Vista tavern. Apart from its beaches, Anti Paxos is home to some beautiful chalk-white stretches of coastline, a host of olive groves and several vineyards that produce a rich red with a delicious flavour.

Voutoumi’s turquoise waters.

DAY

104

Ionian Island Bliss

DAY

4 LEVKAS Levkas (also known as Lefkada) is a mountainous island covered in dense vegetation. Encircled by a coastline of sheer cliffs, the island offers deep coves and turquoise bays. The eastern coast slopes gently down to the sea and this side of the island tends to be more sheltered from the wind. In contrast, the western coast is steep but is lined with spectacular stretches of golden beach — Porto Katsiki and Egremni being the most popular. Levkas excels in natural beauty and the Dimosari waterfalls at Nydri are a highlight. They cascade down a 15-metre drop into a small plunge pool and are surrounded by a stone gorge. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

Colourful old houses in Levkas City.

105

Ionian Island Bliss

DAY

5 MEGANISI Lying to the southeast of Levkas is the island of Meganisi. Step ashore to wander the sleepy whitewashed villages of Katomeri and Spartochori or head to the southwest of the island to explore the marine cave of Papanikolis — it’s a 30-metre-deep cavern with a sandy beach inside it. The beaches of Meganisi are pebbled and fringed with eucalyptus trees. The lack of mass tourism on the island and peaceful way of living makes Meganisi a top destination for those who love seclusion and a more relaxed pace. The island is quintessentially Greek and although a little rustic at times, it’s all part of the charm.

106

Fresh, local fare is the dish of the day.

ITHACA Mythical Ithaca, home of Odysseus — legendary

Other locations on the island include the quaint

Greek King and hero of Homer’s epic, the Odyssey.

port of Kioni. Situated to the southeast, it’s less built up than Vathy but still has plenty to offer, including

Ithaca is a small yet unforgettable paradise. The

Lizzy’s Bar & Restaurant, which serves lunch with a

landscape is lush with greenery and small villages lie

breathtaking view across the bay.

scattered around the secluded coves. The west coast of the island is steep and almost barren in contrast to the green and gentle shoreline of the east. Vathy, Ithaca’s capital, surrounds the main harbour and is built in an amphitheatrical shape around the deep and sheltered bay. The closest beach to Vathy is Filiatro, and it’s particularly picturesque with trees

“Ithaca is a small yet unforgettable paradise. The landscape is lush with greenery and small villages lie scattered around with secluded coves”

that overhang the shoreline and dip into the sea.

DAY

107

CEPHALONIA On the northern tip of Cephalonia is the attractive and

When exploring the island’s eastern coast, pay a visit

typically Greek village of Fiscardo. Cephalonia is the

to the Melissani Cave. This incredible cave formation

largest of the Ionian Islands and of the approximately

holds a lake at its centre, surrounded by trees.

365 villages to be found here, Fiscardo had the incredible fortune of being left virtually untouched by the earthquake of 1953, which left many of the island’s buildings in ruins. Fiscardo surrounds the harbour, which is in turn surrounded by hills and the rich Mediterranean countryside. Cephalonia boasts some of the most beautiful and stunning beaches in the Mediterranean, including the internationally acclaimed Myrtos

“Fiscardo surrounds the harbour, which is in turn surrounded by hills and the rich Mediterranean countryside”

beach. In the south, the beaches are generally sandy whilst towards the north, the beaches and coves tend to be softly pebbled.

DAY

108

Ionian Island Bliss

DAY

8 ZAKYNTHOS Located to the south of Cephalonia, Zakynthos (Zante)

Vassilikos bay is ideal for water sports and on

is one of the most beautiful islands in the Ionian Sea.

shore, there are many cycling and hiking routes. Scuba diving trips can also be arranged.

Pictures of its iconic Navigo (shipwreck) beach are found in every travel journal and on the Instagram

The island’s main town, also called Zakynthos,

profiles of every travel blogger. The beach is a

has a mix of Venetian and Neoclassical architecture.

secluded cove, only accessible by boat, and has

The town’s main attractions, including the Byzantine

a shipwreck on its shore. It’s an idyllic anchorage

museum, the church of Agios Nikolaos Molos and the

— perfect for a late afternoon swim, followed by a

cultural centre are found around Solomos Square.

cocktail on deck. Other beaches to be found on the southern edge of Zakynthos include Gerakas, Vassilikos and Spiantza. In summer months, Zakynthos’ beaches become a breeding ground for the endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtle and the anchorage at Keri is an ideal spot to see them.

109

110

HOW TO

MASTER CHARTER

111

“We get to the heart of a yacht’s DNA to create a yacht specific marketing approach... We spend time on board each yacht to really get into those details.”

—— Charter is an attractive option for owners who are looking to get the most out of their yacht. Despite the best of intentions, few owners spend more than a few months (if not weeks) on board each year. Too much downtime for an asset as significant as a crewed yacht can be a worry, but charter presents some obvious solutions. The most significant benefit is revenue creation. Commercially-minded owners who are open to charter opportunities, particularly during peak seasons, can offset running and operational costs associated with yacht ownership, says Romina Rastelli, EU Charter Fleet Manager at Hill Robinson. “Effectively, while on charter, a proportion of berth and mooring will be paid by the charter clients,” she says. “The charter income would cover insurance costs and routine maintenance expenses, too.” Another big advantage in the West Mediterranean area is the exemption from Value Added Tax on all purchases, adds Romina, as long as the yacht is compliant with either the French or the Italian Commercial Exemption. It’s these types of arrangements where regular insight from a charter manager can prove invaluable.

KURT FRASER SALES & MARKETNG DIRECTOR HILL ROBINSON

“The charter manager is in charge of making sure the boat is compliant and has the proper VAT registrations in place, and for collecting the right certificates prior to the signature of the charter agreement,” advises Romina. “A boat which is fully managed by a professional company (rather than only charter management) is more likely to be successful and safe.” A yacht that performs well on the charter market doesn’t go unnoticed, either. Perennial charter vessels that are well-maintained often have loyal repeat clients who advocate the yacht to their peers. This serves three-fold. For yachts on the sales market, new yacht owners often charter before deciding to purchase. Furthermore, yachts that are already well established in the charter market are easier to establish in the brokerage community. And according to William Molloy, Senior Charter Broker at Moravia Yachting, there is a sales incentive attached, too: “A yacht with a tried and tested charter revenue stream may look appealing to certain buyers.” When advising owners on how to optimise their yacht for charter, William lists commercial compliance, maintenance upkeep and VAT registration in relevant cruising destinations. He also underlines the importance of sound, advanced planning for periods of owner usage, as well as keeping crew qualified and inspired. “The yacht needs to be in A1 condition, and the crew need to be happy, well-qualified and given time to rest and recover in between charters,” he says. “People, like machines, do break down if pushed too hard and not cared for. A good, solid, enthusiastic, fair and reasonable captain who is supported behind the scenes by a top management team will set the platform for a successful operation.”

112

113

How to Master Charter

It may seem incongruous that crew like to be on board a busy charter

Before accepting any charters, owners should ensure a proper MYBA

yacht. Turnarounds between charters can be tight and crew downtime

charter agreement has been established and validated by a professional

can be limited. But charters do serve as a welcome incentive for crew,

company. Aside from delivering peace of mind, it ensures that the

says Romina. “Charters keep crew active, which can result in less

yacht’s intended use is clearly outlined in the contract and verifies that

turnover and recruiting hassles, and can establish a strong and reliable

the agreement is both fair and financially viable. Again, this is something

culture onboard. This will benefit both the owner and charter guests,

that charter managers can assist with, but their role goes far beyond

and the gratuity also serves as an excellent motivator for crew.”

fiscal and bureaucratic requirements. The entire process is designed to insulate owners from risk and to ensure charter yachts are operated

According to Kurt Fraser, Sales and Marketing Director at Hill Robinson,

safely, professionally and to the highest service standards.

what sets Hill Robinson’s charter management service apart from other brokerage houses is its ability to get to grips with a yacht’s most notable

“A charter management company is dealing with every aspect, such as

features, to promote each yacht within its fleet in its best light.

marketing to generate repeat business, assisting with crew training on charter processes and regular inspections to make sure everything is in

“We get to the heart of a yacht’s DNA to create a yacht specific marketing

order and ready to welcome guests,” says Romina. “We offer advice on

approach,” says Kurt. “What is the personality defined by its crew? What

intricately planned itineraries in the most popular cruising locations and help

type of cuisine does the head chef specialise in? We take a close look

to identify the key features that makes a yacht unique. Most importantly,

at the entertainment facilities on board, the lifestyle amenities and the

we make sure that the boat is safe and ready for a busy season.”

water toys, and learn about the captain’s favourite locations for charter. We spend time on board each yacht to really get into those details.”

With the cruising industry in tatters and the desire for remote travel greater than ever, chartering a yacht has never been more appealing.

One of the issues that owners often experience when listed with a large,

With trustful and regular communications on your side, it’s never

traditional brokerage house is that they are one yacht amongst a hundred-

been more simple for owners to navigate a charter path to success.

plus others, adds Kurt. “It’s near impossible to apply a yacht-specific marketing strategy to promote an individual yacht within a supersized fleet. Our approach is to restrict our fleet to a certain size so that we can maintain a real focus on developing individual marketing campaigns. Hill Robinson was born out of highly specialised operational technical management and regulatory services, so our charter management technique is an organic extension of these deep levels of expertise.” 114

Written by Julia Zaltzman

CHARTER MANAGEMENT

OUR CHARTER MANAGERS —— Our charter managers are some of the most experienced and capable individuals in the industry. With first-hand yachting experience, impressive career credentials and marketing know-how, the team is best placed to advise on all your charter needs.

Kaisa Pace

Romina Rastelli

Charter Manager, Fort Lauderdale

Charter Fleet Manager, Antibes

Kaisa grew up sailing and became a licensed Captain and sailing

Romina’s yachting career began in 2001, joining one of the leading industry

instructor in her early twenties. After managing a charter company

firms and gaining valuable experience in several departments including

in the Abaco Bahamas, Kaisa started her land-based career with an

administration and accounts, yacht management and brokerage. Romina

established brokerage firm. Kaisa has been a charter manager and retail

has been with Hill Robinson for 10 years and is responsible for promoting

sales specialist since 2004, with extensive knowledge of cruising areas

the Hill Robinson charter fleet, management of the fleet’s calendar,

in the Caribbean and US, and a particular passion for the Bahamas.

administering bookings and supervising charters.

An extremely experienced charter manager, Kaisa has been an active member of the IYBA Charter Professional Committee for over eight years.

Julie Bichon Charter Manager, Monaco

Meagan Whelan

Julie started her career with a Monaco-based yachting company in 2010

Charter Manager, Fort Lauderdale

and she has been a charter manager ever since. She has excellent

Meagan joined Hill Robinson in January 2020. With a keen eye for detail

knowledge of worldwide cruising areas and has travelled to most.

and an interest in marketing, her past successes include designing

Julie also has a broad knowledge of cruising restrictions and legalities.

corporate newsletters and adverts, spearheading email marketing

Her background in sales and marketing is an asset to the company

campaigns, renovating websites and implementing social media

and as an extremely experienced charter manager, Julie is an active

strategies for various private clubs and maritime companies. With her

member of MYBA.

extensive experience in communications, Meagan is well placed to promote the charter fleet and administer bookings as a charter manager.

Camille Medina Charter Manager, Antibes After graduating from university in Australia, Camille took to the sea and toured the world working aboard a cruise ship before returning to land and commencing a role as a crew specialist. Camille joined Hill Robinson in 2015 and has been working as a charter manager for the last two years. A key member of the team, Camille inspects each vessel’s charter

116

credentials and represents the company at many international events.

CHARTER FLEET

OUR CHARTER FLEET —— In the following pages we will introduce you to the collection of charter yachts managed by Hill Robinson. Whether you are a charter guest planning the ultimate escape or a superyacht owner seeking the care and attention of a professional management team, our bespoke approach is designed to provide you with value, reliability, and the service excellence you deserve.

DREAM

106.5m (349'5'') SPECIFICATION REFIT YEAR

REFIT 2018

REFIT BUILDER OLYMPIC YACHT SERVICES CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

EAST MED

PRICE

FROM €2,000,000 PER WEEK

Fantastic yacht, she is a very impressive vessel indeed and certainly currently one of the best 36 pax vessels available today. Dream is an incredible achievement!

118

CHARTER FLEET KEY FEATURES — Wellness centre with massage room, sauna and beauty salon — Spacious 260m2 master stateroom with 180° panoramic view — Expansive sun deck with two-level pool and bar — Three formal dining rooms — Business centre and cinema room

AMARYLLIS 78.4m (257'4") SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2011

BUILDER

ABEKING & RASMUSSEN

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

UK (SUMMER)

BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN (WINTER)

PRICE

FROM €695,000 PER WEEK

KEY FEATURES — Schimmel piano with auto-play function — Full-beam master suite with panoramic private terrace — Spacious glass elevator — Large Jacuzzi pool with recessed lighting — Dedicated massage area — Multiple al fresco dining options

120

CHARTER FLEET

We enjoyed extraordinary service on board an impeccable yacht. We found her to be incredibly warm and welcoming and the owner’s deck was a private sanctuary we enjoyed immensely. Thank you to Captain Johan and your crew for all you did to ensure our family time was so special.

NOMAD 69.5m (228') SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2003/2020

BUILDER

OCEANFAST

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST & EAST MED (SUMMER)

PLEASE ENQUIRE (WINTER)

PRICE

FROM €380,000 PER WEEK

KEY FEATURES — Cinema room with an impressive selection of over 500 movies — Comprehensive LINN entertainment system throughout the yacht; all guest cabins have individual controls — Steinway piano — Massage area — 600 bottle wine cellar — Fully equipped gym 122

CHARTER FLEET

Designed for long range exploration and wellequipped with the finest amenities, superyacht Nomad offers the complete charter experience.

ETERNITY 65m (213') SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2010/2020

BUILDER

CODECASA

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

BAHAMAS (YEAR ROUND)

PRICE

$390,000 PER WEEK

Thank you to the crew for an amazing experience on board. We have been lucky to charter numerous yachts in the 65 metre range and we found Eternity and her delightful crew set a new standard in the Bahamas! We are forever grateful for the family memories and look forward to our return. 124

CHARTER FLEET KEY FEATURES — Art gallery throughout, featured pieces discreetly for purchase — Master ofﬁce with fold-out balcony, ideal for over-the-water dining/relaxing — 5.25m/17.3ft foredeck Jacuzzi that doubles as an exercise/ resistance pool — Dedicated sun deck gym with Peloton, punching bag, stability balls and yoga mats, etc

RARITY

55m (180'5") SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2008/2017

BUILDER

ROSSINAVI

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST & EAST MED

PRICE

FROM €235,000 PER WEEK

KEY FEATURES — Extensive refit in 2017 including a new bulbous bow — Elevator connecting all decks — Fully equipped and air-conditioned gym on the sun deck — New contemporary and modern interiors with dynamic photography and artwork —M assage facilities, either on the sun deck or in the cinema room for more privacy

126

CHARTER FLEET

Thank you very much for this great experience on board Rarity. The yacht is great and very clean. The crew is excellent! Especially, all girls were very friendly and supportive. The Chef... WOW!!! Excellent and very close to Michelin level. We loved his food!!!

ARESTEAS 50.75m (166'6") SPECIFICATION YEAR

2017

BUILDER

YILDIZLAR YACHTING

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

EAST & WEST MED

PRICE

FROM €150,000 PER WEEK

KEY FEATURES — Sophisticated and neutral interior design with warm and cosy lighting — Glass bottom deck Jacuzzi with changing lights, ideal for romantic moments — A comfortable and stable motor sailing experience — Indulgent relaxing area with fully equipped gym, sauna with Himalayan salt wall, cold bucket shower and massage room

128

CHARTER FLEET

Luxury sailing yacht Aresteas is one of the charter fleet’s hidden gems. By combining modern amenities with spacious guest accommodation and elegant interiors, she is a stand-out option for yacht charters.

HYPERION 47.42m (155'7") SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

1998/2015

BUILDER

ROYAL HUISMAN

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

EAST & WEST MED

PRICE

FROM €91,000 PER WEEK

Still buzzing after such a fantastic regatta! Thanks for making us all feel so welcome and looking after us so well. Your crew are a credit to you. Hope that our paths cross again soon.

130

CHARTER FLEET KEY FEATURES — Large pilothouse and spacious saloon — Master cabin includes a luxurious office space and a relaxation area — Ample storage and state-of-the-art entertainment systems in each guest cabin — Swim platform and sun deck — Wine stored in a 200-bottle temperature controlled wine cooler

AUDACES 44.81m (147') SPECIFICATION

132

YEAR/REFIT

2014/2021

BUILDER

SUNRISE YACHTS

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

SUMMER 2021: BAHAMAS

WINTER 2021/22: BAHAMAS/

CARIBBEAN. SUMMER 2022: MED

PRICE

FROM $175,000 PER WEEK

Hill Robinson is delighted to launch the Audaces charter program, a new offering to the Charter Market destined for success. With careful attention and a strong base of knowledge formed from their own charter experiences, her new Owner is focused on delivering an unparalleled charter program in this range.

CHARTER FLEET

It was a last minute charter; Captain Igor did a great job pulling together provisions within 24hrs with no preferences – not easy! Overall a great trip and thanks again for making this happen last minute – team effort!

MY LITTLE VIOLET 45.60m (149'7") SPECIFICATION YEAR

2006

BUILDER

ABEKING & RASMUSSEN

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST MED & CROATIA

PRICE

FROM €180,000 PER WEEK

The service on board Island Heiress was impeccable, the boat is divine! The best part was spending time with my best friend in paradise and luxury beyond my wildest dreams. Best time ever, best crew ever! Thank you!

ISLAND HEIRESS 44.2m (145') SPECIFICATION

134

YEAR/REFIT

1996/2021

BUILDER

CHEOY LEE

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

BAHAMAS (SUMMER)

CARIBBEAN, BAHAMAS

PRICE

FROM $125,000 PER WEEK

JUST SAYIN’

40.21m (131'11")

YEAR/REFIT

1999/2021

BUILDER

TRIDENT

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

FLORIDA, BAHAMAS (WINTER)

PRICE

FROM $95,000 PER WEEK

CHARTER FLEET

SPECIFICATION

A warm and sophisticated tri-deck yacht, Just Sayin’ has recently been upgraded with interior refreshes, stunning art work, a freshly painted hull and a towed tender- making her an ideal choice for winter charters in Florida and the Bahamas.

KATHLEEN ANNE 39m (127'11'') SPECIFICATION YEAR

2009

BUILDER

FEADSHIP

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST MED & SPAIN

PRICE

€140,000 PER WEEK

What an amazing trip! Croatia was a wonderful surprise and the Kathleen Anne was a perfect fit for our family trip. We thank you all for the attention to every detail. You spoiled us and we appreciate each and every one of the great crew.

136

CHARTER FLEET

Indigo Star I’s impressive leisure and entertainment facilities, combined with large interior spaces make her the ideal charter yacht for socialising and entertaining with family and friends.

INDIGO STAR I 38m (124'8") SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

1995/2018

BUILDER

SIAR & MOSCHINI

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST MED & SPAIN

PRICE

FROM €78,000 PER WEEK

BAGHEERA 36.57m (120') SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2005/2021

BUILDER

PALMER JOHNSON

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST MED

PRICE

€88,000 PER WEEK

The only Palmer Johnson 120’ with an infinity pool Jacuzzi on the aft deck overlooking the swim platform. A fast, efficient and stable yacht, which delivers an adrenaline-fuelled and luxury charter vacation.

138

CHARTER FLEET

Mabruk III is ideal for families, combining fun and luxury with amazing features such as jacuzzi and sauna on the sun deck for the adults to relax, while the kids can entertain with the water slide and other toys.

MABRUK III 35.05m (115') SPECIFICATION YEAR

1999/2021

BUILDER

NOTIKA

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

WEST MED

PRICE

FROM €60,000 PER WEEK

ONLY NOW

34.60m (113'6")

SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2012/2021

BUILDER

TANSU YACHTS

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

GREECE (SUMMER)

BAHAMAS & CARIBBEAN

(WINTER) PRICE

FROM €80,000 PER WEEK

QUARANTA

34.10m (111'11")

SPECIFICATION YEAR

2013

BUILDER

CURVELLE

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

CROATIA &

MONTENEGRO 140

PRICE

€109,000 PER WEEK

HANNA

CHARTER FLEET

28.35m (93')

SPECIFICATION

LADY VICTORY 26.82m (88')

SPECIFICATION YEAR/REFIT

2004/2019

BUILDER

RAYBURN

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

NEW ENGLAND (SUMMER)

FLORIDA, BAHAMAS

(WINTER) PRICE

FROM $35,000 PER WEEK

YEAR/REFIT

2019/2021

BUILDER

RIVA

CABINS

GUESTS

LOCATION

FLORIDA / BAHAMAS

PRICE

FROM $75,000 PER WEEK

142

SUBMARINES & SUPERYACHTS The Matchmaking Process Personal submarines are the latest toy on the wish list of many a superyacht owner. For those wanting to add a submersible to their existing vessel, there are a number of challenges to overcome before they can take to the deep with casual, carefree ease. Hill Robinson’s Philipp Schöpfer explains how it can all be made possible.

Written by Jenna Mehdi

143

Submarines & Superyachts

“When a client is looking to accommodate a submarine aboard their superyacht, Philipp’s first piece of advice is to make sure they know what they are in for”

—— As project manager in Hill Robinson’s Special Projects Division, Philipp Schöpfer’s job role is nothing if not varied. The refit of superyachts to accommodate submarines is a service that has evolved over his four-year career at Hill Robinson, with clients increasingly looking for more from their yachting experience than to simply relax and unwind in luxury. Submarine exploration is an experience quite unlike any other, offering the chance to get up close and personal with new depths of the sea in total comfort. But as we will learn from Philipp, adding one of these deep-sea explorers to your toy garage is not as straightforward as some might think… When a client is looking to accommodate a submarine aboard their superyacht, Philipp’s first piece of advice is to make sure they know what they are in for. “It’s very easy to buy a submarine, but the mothership integration and ongoing operation is difficult, time-consuming and expensive,” says Philipp. In terms of practical requirements, available space and lifting capacity are the primary considerations. Despite their size, submarines are delicate pieces of equipment and are best stored in an enclosed space like a tender garage. If the submarine is to be stored out on the open deck, this must be strong enough to hold the sub’s weight for an extended period. Depending on the model, submarines can weigh anything from one to 16 tonnes, so the Hill Robinson team must also ensure the yacht’s crane has enough lifting capacity — or that the necessary upgrades are made.

144

“On our last project we made sure both the mothership and support vessel were able to carry the submarine,” says Philipp. “We investigated every aspect in meticulous detail, from the space and crane capability to the access and handling — doing lifting exercises for example to ensure smooth on- and off-boarding. We covered the full picture.” When it comes to projects like this, establishing hard and fast rules is near impossible. This first stage of the process is defined by the boat the owner is looking to use, where they wish to store the submarine and how it will be used. “There is no real length threshold — I’ve seen a submarine on a 30-metre open deck,” says Philipp. “Last year, U-Boat Worx released the NEMO which is their smallest submarine yet. It has a footprint of just two jet skis, and is around 2.5 tonnes. It can be stowed on the aft swim platform of most large motor yachts.” Space and lifting capacity ascertained, Philipp then asks clients the question: ‘Where do you want to go in your submarine?’ The location and depth of the dives will determine requirements; in remote locations where the nearest facilities could be several hours away, the mothership or support vessel will need its own pressure chamber or other autonomous safety equipment. Submarine specifications vary from anything between 100-metre and 1,000-metre depth capacity. “If the client only wants to see a reef, then 100-metres is plenty,” says Philipp. Visibility is often greatly reduced after 200-metres, Philipp adds, so it is important to ascertain owner expectations.

isibility reduces greatly beyond depths of V 200 metres, and for the majority of owners that’s more than sufficient. ill Robinson take charge of crew training for H safe submarine operation. I t’s possible for smaller, lighter submersibles to be carried on deck.

145

Submarines & Superyachts

Next up is the important issue of training crew. This also presents its challenges: “If the owner only has a certain number of crew members and can’t accommodate any more, we need to identify members of the existing crew who can be trained to operate the submarine.” U-Boat Worx recently set up its own training centre in Curacao, which was a great opportunity for Hill Robinson to train its own crew. Once the submarine’s on board accommodation is accounted for and training is underway, it should be smooth sailing — or diving — from there, right? Not quite. “You can’t just dive anywhere, you need permits,” says Philipp. “We have developed a good relationship with U-Boat Worx, and they know where their submarines are at any time — so if they have done a permit for somewhere, they can help with that service. Keeping in contact with the builder is really important.” The submarine will also require an annual class survey, which can take up to ten days, followed by a safety dive. This survey must be carried out when due, regardless of where the vessel is at the time. “A submarine isn’t like a jet ski,” Philipp says. “If you don’t use it for a year then licenses and insurance lapses and training becomes dated; and then you’re never going to use it. So the upkeep is pretty constant, but worth it.” To Philipp, relaying this information to clients at the outset of a project is of paramount importance. Training dives and charters are easily arranged these days, and Philipp advises every interested client to take a test dive before taking the process further. “Once they’re hooked, it is much easier to navigate the extra costs!” The result? Clients who see the project through are highly motivated, and the last project has been an incredible learning curve for Philipp and the team. “We have so much knowledge now and a great relationship with the builder,” he says. “We’re looking forward to the next project.”

Images: Philipp Schöpfer, Project Manager for Hill Robinson’s Special Projects Division. 146

Lifting capacity and stowage space is carefully assessed.

ITALY Written by Roxanne Hughes

—— Hill Robinson’s La Spezia office, located in the pretty Porto Lotti marina, has now been in operation for over two years and, in that time, has quickly established itself as the goto resource for the local yachting community.

Peta Rook, marketing and business development coordinator for Hill Robinson in Italy, adds how the office’s location affords unique industry insight: “During the pandemic specifically, we’ve been able to converse with several of the local yards and are delighted to see, with first hand surety, that the business of yacht building is booming.” According to 2020/21 global order book projections, Italy continues to lead the list for collective length and gross tonnage under construction,

The office’s prime location, poised between the shipyards of Sanlorenzo,

and this is where Hill Robinson Italia really comes into its own.

Baglietto, Ferretti and many other leading names in Italian superyacht

“Globally, yachts are getting progressively bigger, safety, security and

construction, sees the team well placed to project manage both refits

environmental legislation is getting tighter, and owners are becoming

and new build commissions, providing the on-the-ground resource and

more respondent to where and how budgets are spent,” comments Peta.

trusted representation that is synonymous with the Hill Robinson name.

“With the office located amongst neighbouring shipyards, we are able to advise clients and their representatives on the most suitable shipyard

Senior project manager, Pino di Mora comments: “From our La Spezia

for their project, based on yearly reviews of a yard’s key parameters

location we are pleased to provide owners, captains and crew with

(technically and financially), resulting in mutually beneficial advantages

technical consultancy and support, refit and new build management,

and delivering a higher level of service on both sides.”

Italian fiscal system advice, ISM compliance and yacht management. With our in-house business development specialist, we can also offer

These positive shipyard relations have given the office opportunity

crew placement, payroll and charter.”

to branch into crew training and development, starting with the Sanlorenzo Crew Academy. The first 2021 cohort began their 800-

An added benefit of this location for Hill Robinson, in the vicinity of

hour training in January and despite the disruption caused by

various local marinas, is that the team can easily tend to the regional

COVID-19, Hill Robinson Italia has been able to deliver its academy

fleet and introduce the possibility for non-fleet yachts to seek help and

programme with great success and students are now close to

support, selecting from the full range of Hill Robinson’s management

completing their STCW and Medical ENG1 qualifications. Sanlorenzo

services. The office also receives preferential marina rates, which are

have confirmed that five positions will be available within the shipyard

passed on to clients.

for successful candidates who wish to start their yachting careers in shipbuilding rather than on board.

When the office first opened in 2019, it ran a series of successful events

148

for fleet captains and crew. The events and technical seminars, at which

In the year to come, the La Spezia team intend to add crew placement

industry experts were invited to share information and advancements

to their remit of services, a provision Hill Robinson already has a strong

with other industry professionals and captains, cemented the new

hold of in other office locations. On the events agenda is the Genoa Boat

office position, signifying Hill Robinson’s relevance, competence,

Show, YARE, SeaTec, continuation of the company’s popular technical

and objective direction.

seminars and various social events for local crew.

PORTO LOTTI Porto Lotti is one of Italy’s most exclusive marinas. Located in a sheltered gulf, adjacent to the Cinque Terre National Park and close to the town of Lerici, the marina has its own repair facility and has been awarded the international Blue Flag in recognition of its outstanding services and status. Construction to extend the marina will commence in 2022 and this will allow Porto Lotti to welcome larger vessels. At this time, Hill Robinson looks forward to launching its new concierge service, which will be a first for the company.

149

CYPRUS —— Serving the eastern Mediterranean and delivering technical, operational, financial and commercial management services, as well as handling local refit projects, is Hill Robinson’s Cyprus office. The office is located in Limassol marina — the primary port of call for superyachts visiting Cyprus — and thus puts Hill Robinson at the heart of Cyprus’ yachting scene. Working closely with Hill Robinson’s international network of offices to provide a seamless service to clients, Hill Robinson Cyprus makes a significant contribution to the company’s growing presence and capabilities. The Cyprus office has several vessels under its direct management and the office is also responsible for the payment administration on behalf of the company’s fleet vessels. This ensures precise review, approval and subsequent remittance of supplier invoices, credit cards and ship’s cash utilising the online HRpay system. The Cyprus team also provide a stakeholder function to owners and charterers ensuring that charter fees, APA and VAT, where applicable, are paid in accordance with the MYBA Charter Agreement. The Limassol Boat Show has notably elevated Cyprus’ position in the European yachting industry and for office director, Stelios Kazamia, it’s an important date in the calendar. “We have exhibited at the Limassol Boat Show since 2018 and value this opportunity to represent Hill Robinson and further our local network,” comments Stelios. Looking to the future, the Cyprus team are striving for growth in regard to the number of vessels under management, and feel confident that their now well-established presence on the island holds them in good stead to do so.

Written by Roxanne Hughes 150

Images: The Hill Robinson Cyprus office in Limassol marina. Office Director, Stelios Kazamia.

BALEARIC CHARTER DISCOVERY —— Despite their obvious geographical closeness, each Balearic island has its own distinct personality. Mallorca is characterised by lofty mountain ranges, wide plains and a cosmopolitan capital city; Menorca is wilder, more barren, and steeped in history; Ibiza is the party-hard sister with a boho vibe; and Formentera is a luxury escape with no-filter-needed aquamarine water and pure-white sand.

The Balearic’s appeal is without question, but the practicalities perhaps are. With plenty of petite bays and coves to navigate, the islands tend to be more conducive to superyachts of smaller proportion. There are also physical and enforced restrictions on anchoring; the former due to summer overcrowding and the latter due to protection of Posidonia seagrass. To steal a march on the hordes and have your pick of the anchorages, a dawn cruise is required or one can wait for evening when the smaller boats have headed back to port.

Written by Sarah Forge

Traditional Mallorcan village.

152

Palma’s iconic Cathedral Basílica da Santa Maria.

MALLORCA Rounded by an 842-kilometre coastline, including the archipelago of

Ten kilometres on from Port Soller is Cala Tuent. With rare millenary olive

Cabrera, you could easily build a week-long itinerary around Mallorca

trees on the beach, it’s a tantalising stop-off — but it can get crowded. The

alone. Most agree, however, that west is best. Even those who have been

same can be said for the spectacularly deep Cala Sa Calobra at the mouth

cruising the west coast of Mallorca for the best part of 25 years are still

of Torrent de Pareis. This sliver of Mediterranean Sea between towering cliffs

discovering places they’ve never seen. For many, the island ranks among

will take your breath away. Head north, and you’ll reach Cala San Vicente and

their favourite coastlines in the entire Mediterranean.

the 20-kilometre-long Cabo de Formentor; where the Tramuntana ends and crashes into the sea. This is one of the most alluring locations in the Balearics.

Shaped by the UNESCO-protected Tramuntana mountain range, the west coast is a natural beauty and has two key harbours — Port Andratx to the

On Mallorca’s north coast, beauty is found in the extremities of the Bay

south and Port Soller halfway up.

of Alcudia. Cabo Pinar, the peninsula that separates Alcudia from the Bay of Pollenca, is rough and rugged with blue-green seas and, as the name

The natural harbour of Port Andratx acts as the gateway to this

suggests, dramatic pine-clad backdrops. It’s almost impossible to access

sensational 70-kilometre stretch of seaboard, and you don’t have to

by car, so the beaches are deserted. At the opposite end, the coves

travel far to find gold. A couple of kilometres’ cruising brings you to

around the town of Betlem are picturesque and quiet.

Cala d’Egos, a deep west-facing anchorage with an inaccessible, and therefore unoccupied, beach. It’s an ideal spot for sundowners

The east coast offers little shelter, but on a calm day it’s stunning. Cala Agulla,

and sunsets.

in the north, is a sublime white-sand bay and the flora and fauna-rich Cabrera, at the southern end, is designated National Park. Permission is required in

Mooring at Mallorca’s westernmost tip, St Elm, is limited due to the

advance to sail but it’s well worth the effort. There is a LOA limit of 30 metres

Posidonia restrictions but, the uninhabited island of Dragonera,

so if you’re in a large vessel, anchor off and explore by chaseboat or tender.

with cliffs soaring 360 metres high, is worth an up-close inspection. Back on ‘mainland’ Mallorca, Es Trenc is the subject of many a postcard. Further on, the perforated rocky peninsula of Sa Foradada provides

This sweep of powder-white sand and clear waters just 45-minutes’ drive

the true Kodak moment. From here, it’s just a few minutes to Cala Deia,

from Palma will leave you wondering if you’re in the Caribbean. The

a 70-metre wide beach with a pair of decent seafood restaurants, one

smaller boats tend to sit closer to shore, but you can anchor further back

of which, Ca’s Patro March, was used as a location for scenes in the

and still be in just five metres of water, making it an ideal spot for water

multi-award-winning TV series, The Night Manager. Find an anchorage

sports. Speaking of the Bay of Palma, this is where you’ll find some of

on the outskirts and use the tender for access.

the smartest restaurants and beach clubs — Nikki Beach, Puro Beach and UM Beach House are popular with the glamorous crowd.

153

IBIZA Visits to Ibiza can be categorised in two ways: party and non-party.

spot, Cala Conta, on the west coast. Just a few kilometres down that west coast, Cala Tarida is another winsome spot, as is Cala Molí.

Let’s start with ‘party’. At risk of making sweeping generalisations, a party crowd is likely to want to head to one of the island’s glamorous

Solitude seekers will love the bay of Es Cubells. Devoid of big-name

day-to-night beach clubs and then return to either of Ibiza Town’s

beach clubs, there are few people and the water is so deep that only

superyacht marinas (Marina Ibiza or Sovren Ibiza) to then launch into

bigger boats can anchor. Cala Llentrisca to the west is particularly

land-based evening entertainment. In this southwest portion of the

idyllic, with an old-school jetty for embarking/disembarking, while

island there’s Cala Bassa, an ever-popular see-and-be-seen beach

Port Porroig to the east is a more popular pit stop on the journey

in prime position for sunsets; the over-packed Cala Jondal, home to

back to Ibiza Town.

famous crowd-puller Blue Marlin Ibiza; and Playa d’en Bossa, where overhead aircraft noise competes with the loud music from Bora Bora

But, truthfully, you haven’t cruised Ibiza if you haven’t got up close

and Ushuaïa.

and personal with the twin islands of Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell in the far southwest. The larger of the two, Es Vedrà, soars 382 metres high

154

Non-partiers might prefer the diametrically opposite Cala Xarraca in the

and watching the sun drop behind the islands, drink in hand, is a sight

extreme north of Ibiza — wild escapism at its best — or ultimate sunset

to be remembered.

155

MENORCA Widely regarded as Mallorca’s little sister, Menorca is the easternmost of Spain’s sun-dappled Balearic Islands and this small island paradise moves to its own relaxed rhythm. Considerably quieter than Mallorca, the island is distinctly rural, and that is its charm. You could easily spend two or three days exploring the island’s breath-taking north coast with its jagged-edged outcrops and reddish sand, but a generous chunk of this water, some 5,199 hectares between Cap Gros and Punta des Morter, is dedicated marine reserve – the largest in the Balearics – and access is restricted as a result. This commitment to the environment and lean towards sustainable tourism has helped the island retain its incredible natural beauty and old-world Spanish charm. One cannot visit Menorca without calling in at the Port of Mahon. At six kilometres long, it’s the mightiest natural harbour in the Mediterranean and is overlooked by impressive Georgian mansions and a 13th century church.

FORMENTERA The baby of the Balearics, Formentera oozes rustic simplicity and is famous for its ribbons of white sand, turquoise-green waters, and feet-in-sand fish restaurants. Most superyachts head straight to Ses Illetes on the west. It’s undeniably captivating, but does have Posidonia restrictions, which are even harder to navigate when you’re competing with the crowds. The smart money heads to the other side, Playa Levante, which is equally Caribbean-esque and boasts a very cool beach club.

“The baby of the Balearics, Formentera oozes rustic simplicity and is famous for its ribbons of white sand, turquoise-green waters, and feet-in-sand fish restaurants”

Relax in laid-back harbourside restaurants, visit the lantern-lit hippy markets of El Pilar de la Mola, or take a mud bath in the hot spring on the adjacent island of Espalmador. Formentera is admissibly a daytime place but for nightlife, it’s just a short run back to Ibiza Town, where the likes of Pacha, Lío and Heart will help you dance the night away.

156

With thanks to James Line, Captain of 32-metre Astralium.

156

THE ITINERARY DAY ONE

DAY FOUR

DAY SEVEN

Mallorca’s cosmopolitan capital

A beach lover’s paradise

A day of water sports with the Tramuntana

DAY TWO

DAY FIVE

An uninhabited nature reserve 10 miles off

Anchor for lunch under the 400-metre high

MENORCA

Mallorca’s southern tip

Isla Verde

Slow the pace and savour every second

DAY THREE

DAY SIX

Whether dancing or dining, Ibiza offers

Drop anchor in the sweeping circular bay

something for everyone

of Port Soller

PALMA

FORMENTERA

CABRERA

POLLENCA Mountains as your backdrop

ISLA VERDE & PORT ANDRATX

IBIZA

DAY EIGHT

of your last day on board

PORT SOLLER

BALEARIC ISLANDS

38nm

Port Soller

MENORCA

Pollenca

35nm

28nm

MALLORCA

Isla Verde & Port Andratx

Palma

30nm

73nm

IBIZA

75nm

Cabrera

13nm 4

Formentera N

157

The Rise and Rise of Expedition Yachts 158

—— With new possibility comes a new wave of interest, and expedition yachting is now something tantalisingly accessible to a broader audience than ever before. Offering plenty of storage, luxurious comfort and impressive cruising capabilities, the rise of expedition yachts has opened up the world. Expedition yachting has been a growing trend in the superyacht world for years. Once a relatively niche part of the superyacht market attracting only the most adventurous owners, today, those looking for a yacht built to explore are spoiled for choice. From pocket-explorer yachts to 100+ metre ice-hulled expedition giants, and from semicustom production models to innovative yacht support vessels: the expedition market is bigger and better than ever before. Working in tandem with one another, as interest in getting-off-thebeaten-track has risen, innovation has exploded. The 126.2-metre Octopus, built by Lürssen in 2003 was one of the very first large luxury explorers and demonstrated exactly what an expedition superyacht had to offer. 15 years later, the 116-metre Ulysses, delivered in 2018 from Kleven Maritime, reminded the industry what is possible when luxury is combined with a commercial platform and engineering.

From Octopus and Ulysses to smaller vessels such as the 68-metre

Looking to the future, it seems a safe bet that expedition yachting is set

Ragnar or 85-metre Bold, looking at the explorer yachts that have

to gain even more popularity. With travel restrictions and international

defined the market, it’s clear that shifting needs from an evolving

lockdowns resulting in a year of re-evaluation, emerging travel trends

landscape of clients means that more people are looking to use their

are a testament to that prediction. Self-sufficiency and autonomy have

yachts in different ways in increasingly unique destinations. And with

become a higher priority, interest in remote destinations away from the

huge technological advancements in yacht design and engineering,

crowds has gained even more traction, and intergenerational journeys

exploration capabilities can now be achieved aboard platforms that

are on the rise. Solid plans for bucket-list experiences are also starting

were once all but impossible.

to take shape for many, from a season spent exploring the winding fjords and awe-inspiring landscapes of Scandinavia to extended expeditions

With more options than ever, it’s not hard to see why owners are

with the entire family.

pointing their bow decidedly towards adventure. A far cry from the triedand-tested hotspots of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, yachtsmen

With an eruption of new and exciting yacht models to suit every

and women far and wide have been embarking on enviable adventures

brief, ocean exploration no longer requires the long labour of love

with their expedition vessels. Summers spent cruising through the idyllic

and heavy investment that it once did. Here, we look at three of the

islands of Indonesia; daring, once-in-a-lifetime adventures to the remote

most interesting shipyards and their unique models that are charting

waters of Antarctica; soaking up Australia’s hotspots from the Great

the explorer yacht landscape.

Barrier Reef to the Whitsunday Islands and beyond.

Written by Gemma Fottles

YXT 160

Lynx Yachts — Crossover series

Perhaps the most exciting offering from Lynx Yachts

Although a relative newcomer to the scene, Lynx

yet, however, is their latest. Revealed in 2020,

Yachts is a great example of not only making ocean

the Crossover Series combines the versatility and

exploration decidedly more accessible but also

storage capabilities of the YXT with the style and

thoroughly shaking up the expectations of what an

comfort of the Adventure. A unique layout sees half

expedition vessel can or should be. Based in the

the deck space allocated to carrying large toys and

Netherlands, the first models out of the Lynx sheds

exploration equipment, with the remaining square

were the innovative YXT line — a range of compact

metres designed as luxurious living spaces. Equipped

yacht support vessels that allow owners to extend

with a crane, the sun deck can host two Yamaha

their own yacht’s capabilities. The YXT was followed

Wave Runners and two jet skis, while the main deck

by the yard’s first range of pocket-explorers: the

accommodates an Air Nautique 21 and five-metre RIB.

Adventure series. Both 29 and 32-metre Adventure

A range of 1,800nm means that this model is ideally

yachts feature a shallow draft, an impressive sun

suited to a new type of exploration: mini-adventures.

deck and beach club area, as well as plenty of

The first 27.4-metre Crossover 27 sold quickly and is

room for toys.

scheduled to hit the water in 2022.

The Rise and Rise of Expedition Yachts

161

162

500EXP

The Rise and Rise of Expedition Yachts

Sanlorenzo Sanlorenzo has a long history in yachting, and today, the

made to get you to the Arctic Circle but look good while

Italian shipyard is one of the quintessential made-in-Italy

doing so. Owners benefit from Sanlorenzo’s speculative

superyacht brands. Combining an unapologetic Italian

build philosophy, making for shorter delivery times and

flair and a host of innovative design solutions in each of its

pre-engineered platforms, ideal for those who want to

models, the yard has become one of the most prominent

get cruising as soon as possible without any hassle.

luxury yacht builders in the sub-80-metre market. Best known for its trendy motor yacht models such as the 52Steel and

No yacht in this range has proven its worth more so than

recent 44Alloy, Sanlorenzo also has a more adventurous

Ocean Dreamwalker III, owned by an adventurous entrepreneur.

side to its superyacht range.

Wanting more space for toys and specifically a helicopter and a submarine, the client extended the length from 42 metres

Sanlorenzo struck gold with the unveiling of its EXP line

to 47 metres, inadvertently creating what would become

in 2015, and the yard has sold nine units of this offering

the 500EXP. Delivered in 2018, the owner has since explored

to date. Born as the 460EXP and naturally evolving to the

extensively, including his dream destination of Alaska.

larger 500EXP, this 47-metre modern-explorer is not only

163

SeaXplorer

Damen Yachting Dutch shipyard Damen is a name synonymous with reliable, ocean-going vessels. With Damen Yachting entering the superyacht scene in the early 2000s under their Amels brand, the yard has been at the forefront of some of the most exciting semi-custom superyacht developments in recent years and similarly shook up the shadow vessel concept with their Yacht Support vessels. Combining their expertise in these opposing fields, the SeaXplorer range was unveiled in 2015 as a hybrid between a heavy-duty carrier and a luxury cruiser. Ranging from 55 to 100+ metres, the SeaXplorer is as opulent and polished as she is a serious expedition vessel, capturing the essence of what a true world-explorer should be. Built on a proven technical platform and offering owners an impressive level of customisation, the first SeaXplorer 77, La Datcha, was delivered in 2020 and demonstrated these custom qualities in full force, with two helicopters, a mini-submarine, Turkish hammam and sauna, onboard medical facilities and a custom copper paint job. It was also one of the first yachts built to meet the new Polar Code Standards introduced in 2017, making her a vessel fit for near unrestricted cruising. Each SeaXplorer is designed to operate self-sufficiently for at least 30 days at sea with sophisticated zero-discharge waste management systems. A dedicated helicopter hangar and toy store keep landing craft and tenders protected from the elements and adds to the clean profile of the yacht’s design.

164

The Rise and Rise of Expedition Yachts

165

T H E A M E R I C A S C U P E F F E C T —— Could it be that the demand and desire to go sailing sits at an all-time high? If so, the reasons are obvious. We talk about FOMO, the Fear Of Missing Out. Well the fact is, for the past year or more we have been missing out! While lockdown restrictions prevented us getting out on the water, at least we had sailing heroics from the southern hemisphere to keep us on the edge of our seats with excitement.

While single-handed adventurers in the Vendée were surfing through the Southern Ocean aboard their semi-foiling IMOCA 60 keelboats, the Americans, British and Italians were locked in a three-way battle in the Prada Cup in Auckland. Whichever of the three challengers emerged victorious from the Prada Cup would go on to battle the defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the 36th America’s Cup. On which note it’s worth pausing for a moment to take stock, and thank our lucky stars that the Kiwis won the 35th edition of the Cup back in Bermuda 2017. Little did the New Zealanders, or the rest of us sailing fanatics, realise how fortuitous that result would prove. When the COVID pandemic struck the world in 2020, one of the safest places to be proved to be one of the most isolated civilisations on the planet, New Zealand. Jacinda Ardern’s government didn’t mess about

168

It’s not often we get to enjoy an overlap of the round-the-world action of

with half measures; every minor breakout of the virus was treated as

the solo adventure race, the Vendée Globe, with the qualifying rounds

a major crisis, which wasn’t popular with everyone. But it was New

of the America’s Cup. Living our lives vicariously through the exploits of

Zealand’s zero-tolerance approach to controlling the virus that

others has become more important than ever, with their achievements

enabled the America’s Cup to go ahead.

a huge source of inspiration to sailors and yachting enthusiasts alike.

The America’s Cup Effect

Among those who came to experience the action in Auckland first hand were the participants of the Mastercard Superyacht Regatta, which was timed to fit in between the end of the Prada Cup and the start of the America’s Cup match. Although numbers were significantly down compared with pre-COVID expectations, the seven sailing yachts and three motor yachts that participated enjoyed one of the best ever regattas according to Hayden Porter, CEO of the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. “Quite a few of our guests told us it was one of the best ever superyacht regattas they’d attended,” says Hayden. “We packed a lot into the four days, both on the water and on shore, and we set the bar high with the opening party where the goal was to highlight best of New Zealand culture and produce, with local seafood, a raw bar, and some of the best bands and performers in the country. On the water we had Harold Bennett, principal race officer for two editions of the America’s Cup, running the racing on the Hauraki Gulf. We were pleased to be able to host a world class event in every respect.”

“There was simply a big wish to just go sailing. The racing was not so much about the battle, the crews were not as aggressive as we’ve seen in the past, but we saw a return to where we started; simply enjoying being on the water.”

It was next the turn of regatta organisers in Europe to see if they could emulate the success of Auckland. The start of June saw the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS) and then at the end of the same month was the Superyacht Cup Palma, hosted by the Real Club Nautico De Palma. Jan Pachner, Secretary General of the YCCS, commented: “Sardinia ran strict controls permitting access to the island, and we established an agreement with one of the hospitals in Olbia for on-site testing before and during the regatta. We wanted to create the safest environment possible.” With the difficulties of the past year has come a shift in attitude on the racecourse, comments Jan. “There was simply a big wish to just go sailing. The racing was not so much about the battle, the crews were not as aggressive as we’ve seen in the past, but we saw a return to where we started; simply enjoying being on the water. I think this is healthy for the sport itself, this sense of going back to basics and having a good time with friends — it’s not just the heat of the competition.” Event director of the Superyacht Cup Palma, Kate Branagh, saw a similar desire to enjoy the simpler pleasures. “People were looking forward to just getting back on the water, whether it was to go racing or spend time with family and friends. It’s up to you and the environment you want to create around you, who you invite and what you choose to do on the water.”

171

The America’s Cup Effect

“One of the huge benefits of being based in Palma is that most of the boats were here already. If you were trying to organise an event in the Caribbean, you’ve got all the issues of getting the boats there, getting all the people there. Here in Palma, there are so many high-level professional sailors and there’s such a strong marine industry that you could run your whole boat without needing to fly any sailing or shore crew in for the event. So that self-sufficiency that we have in Palma gave me a lot of optimism prior to the event, along with the fact that our sponsors stood by us even when things seemed uncertain.” Meanwhile in the offshore scene, interest in the Rolex Fastnet Race is bigger than ever. With the 600-mile race still starting in Cowes but finishing for the first time in Cherbourg rather than Plymouth, the organisers at the Royal Ocean Racing Club have increased the maximum entry by around 100 boats to a total entry of 500 yachts. In January, 370 boats had entered within the first 30 minutes of online registration going live. Enthusiasm for the Fastnet had already been on the rise over the past decade but RORC racing manager Chris Stone cites two additional factors behind this year’s stampede: The Vendée Globe and COVID. A year ago in the darkest days of the pandemic, Chris had wondered whether we’d ever see a return to offshore racing, but by the middle of 2020 he was seeing the FOMO factor kick in and ever since a tumultuous demand to return to offshore when restrictions are lifted. “The Vendée definitely had an effect over the winter, with such a strong and inspiring group of competitors from Britain and France, and the huge following that Boris Herrmann attracted in Germany. The 2020 edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart didn’t go ahead, along with lots of other major regattas, so now there is a real sense of pent-up excitement and optimism around this year’s Fastnet.” The Vendée dares us to dream of the impossible, believes Allie Smith, Head of Group Events at Oyster Yachts. “Many people may look at epic sailing events which achieve international coverage like the Vendée Globe or the America’s Cup and think that they would love to do that but not in such an extreme way. We have owners who want to take their families and friends with them, to learn and grow in confidence en-route, and be assured of all the help they need – route planning, destinations and stop-overs advice, support with servicing and spares, and even providing extra crew. As soon as the dates for the Oyster World Rally 2024-25 were announced, we immediately received a large number of applications for places. We definitely believe the COVID pandemic has made owners reassess their life priorities and given the impetus to just go for it!”

Written by Andy Rice 172

TALKING TURTLES

174

—— Turtles are subject to almost all of the environmental pressures exerted by humans on the ocean. From the erosion and industrial development of coastlines to global warming and rising sea levels, boat collisions, pollution, plastic, overfishing, accidental catches and even the illegal animal trade: the turtle population suffers it all. These animals, a species that lived alongside

Over the last three decades, the population of

fully rehabilitated before their return to the

dinosaurs and stood by at the birth of the

turtles in the Mediterranean has dramatically

open sea. Some of those released back into

human race, have been adapting to changes

decreased, a decline that is largely due to

the wild are done so with a state-of-the-art

in climate and coastal marine environments

human activity. Whilst Loggerhead, Green

backpack that houses sensors to track their

for over 150 million years. This is not an easy

and Leatherback turtles are present, their

movements and deliver data on behaviour

existence however, and their fate depends

geographical distribution is strangely unequal.

and feeding habits.

on our ability to preserve their habitats and In our day-to-day lives, there are a number of

improve the health of the ocean.

steps we can take to ensure our actions don’t For Hill Robinson’s 2020/21 Christmas charity initiative, the company adopted turtles on their clients’ behalf. The adoption drive was facilitated by the World Wildlife Fund, with the adoption fees used to progress educational projects, monitor turtle movements and support schemes

“These animals, a species that lived alongside dinosaurs and stood by at the birth of the human race, have been adapting to changes in climate and coastal marine environments for over 150 million years”

hamper conservation efforts. Reducing marine debris and ocean plastic is priority number one but we can also make our yachting practices and beach visits more turtle friendly — remove recreational beach equipment (such as loungers and umbrellas) at night, fill in holes and flatten any sandcastles, put the engine in neutral if you spot turtles in the water and if

to protect Fiji’s fragile coastal habitats.

you want to observe nesting turtles, do so with an accredited guide or organisation.

All seven species of marine turtle are found in Fiji, with the islands having become the epicentre for nesting and feeding. The warm waters and coral

Loggerheads can be found throughout the Med

reefs are the perfect environment for turtles to

but are more common in the west, particularly

thrive, if the threats of poaching, plastic pollution

around the Balearic Islands, but they’re also

and climate change can be diminished.

found in Egypt and Turkey. The population of Green turtles resides further east, in the

Supporting marine turtles is also an initiative

Levantine basin and the Adriatic Sea.

of the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco, who focus their efforts on the Mediterranean

It would appear that the Loggerhead and

turtle population.

Green turtles are the only species breeding in the Mediterranean although not all the

The Mediterranean is home to six of the seven

Loggerheads in the region were born here —

known species of marine turtles. The Loggerhead

almost half of them hail from the northwest

turtle is the most common, followed by the

Atlantic and have crossed the ocean from

Green turtle and then the Leatherback. Making a

Florida, Georgia and Virginia to lay their eggs.

rarer appearance are Kemp and Hawksbill turtles, which have only been seen in the Mediterranean

The Oceanographic Museum has created a

seven and six times respectively, and the Olive

special rehabilitation basin, where the turtles

Ridley turtle, which has been seen just once

are cared for by the museum’s experienced

when it was found stranded on a Spanish shore.

team of healers, brought to full health and

A Loggerhead turtle cruises the ocean floor.

Written by Roxanne Hughes

175

Written by Roxanne Hughes

BAHAMAS SPLENDID ISOLATION —— Scattered across an area of 100,000 square miles and comprising more than 700 islands and 2,400 cays, The Bahamas are the Caribbean’s finest jewels. This sevenday itinerary will take you from Nassau to Compass Cay, exploring some of the most iconic locations in The Exumas. Kick off your shoes — this is barefoot luxury at its finest.

177

Ionian Island Bliss

DAY

1 ALLAN’S CAY Stepping ashore at Allan’s Cay, you’ll quickly understand why this island is often referred to as Iguana Island. The endangered Bahamian Rock Iguanas that inhabit Allan’s Cay are found here and on just two other cays. These lizards are a social and curious bunch, and it’s quite safe for you to feed them fruit and vegetables. If you don’t mind sharing the sand with your new reptilian friends, then pull up a lounger and bask in the sunshine.

178

HIGHBORNE CAY This privately owned island boasts nine beautiful beaches, nine properties and several 100-year-old plantations. The small-scale development was begun in the 1950s and the colonial style has an alluring charm. The shallow reefs that adorn the eastern shore of Highborne Cay offer fantastic snorkelling just steps from the beach, and to the northwest of the island lies the hull of a 16th century shipwreck, which is perfect for scuba diving.

DAY

179

Bahamas Splendid Isolation

NORMAN’S CAY At Norman’s Cay you’ll find the remains of a DC-3 plane that went down in the 1980’s. It’s a famous sight that every Instagram user will be familiar with and lying in just three feet of water, it’s easy for even the most novice snorkeler to see. Scuba divers in your charter group will enjoy a trip to Dead Head wall, a splendid wall dive with a 70-foot depth. If you fancy lunch or dinner ashore, we recommend the Norman’s Cay Beach Club at MacDuff’s.

DAY

180

DAY

4 SHROUD CAY A highlight of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, this small archipelago of cays and rocky outcrops surrounds a shallow tidal mangrove, which shelters sea turtles, lobsters and many varieties of tropical fish. If you venture along the tidal creek to the north, beware of its extremely shallow depth – this one is best by kayak! Another point of interest at Shroud Cay is Camp Driftwood and from the hilltop site there are great views.

181

Bahamas Splendid Isolation

DAY

5 HAWKSBILL CAY Hawksbill Cay has been uninhabited since 1900 and has spectacular soft sand beaches. Following the trails inland, you’ll find the Russell Ruins. The Russell family were loyalists who, escaping persecution, were given permission to settle on the island in 1785. The humble remains of one-room stone houses are all that remain.

182

WARDERICK WELLS CAY The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is part of the Bahamas National Trust and includes 176 square miles of virgin waters in which all living creatures are protected. Fish here are not only abundant but also curious and provide endless snorkelling excitement. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is the first of its kind in the world, famous for its impeccable beauty, outstanding anchorages and breathtaking marine environment.

DAY

183

Bahamas Splendid Isolation

DAY

7 COMPASS CAY Known for its notoriously friendly nurse sharks, Compass Cay is an incredibly beautiful spot with an unbelievable abundance of marine life including rays, angelfish, yellowtail and mangrove snapper, barracuda, puffer fish and groupers. A whole day is easily lost simply snorkelling around the marina. Your charter can end here at Compass Cay and the local airport offers short flights to Nassau for onward international travel. If you wish to extend your time in The Bahamas, continue south, island hopping at your leisure.

184

THE ITINERARY DAY 1

DAY 4

DAY 7

Embark in Nassau and cruise to Allan’s Cay

Shroud Cay is a small archipelago

Dive into a living aquarium at Compass Cay

for a meeting with the Iguanas

surrounding a tidal mangrove

DAY 2

DAY 5

The exclusive charm of Highborne Cay offers

Discover the 18th century ruins of days

snorkelling and scuba diving

gone by in Hawksbill Cay

DAY 3

DAY 6

Instagram-worthy sightseeing at Norman’s Cay

The centre of the Exuma Cays Land

ALLAN’S CAY

SHROUD CAY

HIGHBORNE CAY

COMPASS CAY

HAWKSBILL CAY

NORMAN’S CAY

WARDERICK WELLS CAY and Sea Park

BAHAMAS

Allan’s Cay

1 2nm

Nassau

Highborne Cay

Eleuthera

8nm

Norman’s Cay

Cat Island The Bahamas

7nm

Shroud Cay

3nm 5

Hawksbill Cay 9nm

Warderick Wells Cay

11nm 7

Compass Cay N

185

FORT LAUDERDALE

EXPERT INSIGHT: PRESIDENT BARRETT WRIGHT —— Heading up Hill Robinson’s US operations since 2015, there are few more informed industry leaders than President Barrett Wright when it comes to the US market. With a number of exciting yachts joining the US fleet, as Barrett reports, business is booming.

Written by Gemma Fottles

—— Here we catch up with Barrett in Hill Robinson’s US headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, who sheds light on the continued expansion of the US yachting market as well as shares her top advice for the growing number of first-time yacht owners.

How has Hill Robinson US evolved since you took the helm?

You joined Hill Robinson in 2011 but have been working in yachting

The US team expanded rapidly last year. Is this in response

for much longer. Tell us your journey through the business.

to an expanding US market?

I started working on boats as crew in 2003 and then moved ashore to

It’s a very active market right now in the US – I was involved in three

work with the Fontaine Design Group and Friendship Yacht Company in

closings between March and April alone. These were all brand new,

Newport, Rhode Island. We built a fleet of boats of 40, 53 and 75 foot.

first-time yacht owners, deciding to jump into it now. There’s been a lot

My husband later got a job in Florida, so we relocated, and I started

of growth within the team, mainly in response to the services needed

looking for a new opportunity in the industry. I was introduced to Hill

by our clients, and this compliments our aim of expanding our footprint

Robinson in 2011 and joined as a yacht and company accountant before

here in the United States. Last year we welcomed a new charter manager

taking on the yacht management and operation side of things. Having

to kick start the US charter management facet of our business and

worked on boats myself was a great insight into being empathetic to life

brought in an experienced marketing manager to help with the goal

on board. It allowed for ease of communication and being able to keep

of increasing our audience, both in the industry and outside. We also

blood pressures down, which is often half the battle! It was a fantastic

brought in more crew recruiters and technical managers.

way to really get to understand the complexities of yacht management. Six years ago I took over as President of Hill Robinson USA and kept the team going during a period of transition — and I’m happy to say the US operations are stronger than ever! I proved myself, kept the team going during a turbulent time, and officially took over as President.

186

Six years since I initially stepped into this role, and I’m happy to say that things are going really well. We opened another office in Palm Beach in 2017, and our US team now includes 16 people working out of our Florida offices. Our US fleet is up to 20 now and we’ve picked up some high-calibre clients, who are a fantastic addition to our charter fleet. So it’s been good. It has been a big learning curve, but it’s been exciting. It’s also been exhausting, but none of us would be doing this if we didn’t love it. It’s totally worth it.

“ I think more people have realised that yachting represents the freedom of being able to go where you want, when you want, with your own inner circle in complete privacy — and isolation if desired.” BARRET WRIGHT PRESIDENT — HILL ROBINSON USA

Did you also see a busy winter charter period?

I think a lot of people who have been on the fence about chartering

This season we’ve seen the Bahamas become very popular with charter

have now been tempted to give it a try. If you’re going to take the whole

clients and yacht owners. They have definitely been one of the most

family to somewhere fabulous, a luxury resort in Tahiti, for example,

proactive and organised destinations when it comes to pandemic

you’re still going to be looking at a hefty price tag to get the entire

protocols. They facilitated testing, safety controls and travel visas,

family there and stay for two weeks. So why not get on a boat, go where

and we saw that many clients took advantage of that ‘user-friendliness’

you want to, have everybody there together and call your own itinerary.

this past winter season. St Thomas had a similar approach.

I think more people have realised that yachting represents the freedom of being able to go where you want, when you want, with your own inner

The second half of 2020 certainly picked up as far as the US market was

circle in complete privacy — and isolation if desired.

concerned. As most people couldn’t go across to the Med, many yachts went up north and explored the east coast of the States. In some way,

What’s your advice for first-time yacht buyers?

a lot of owners in the US enjoyed having that rare opportunity to take

I really encourage first-time yacht owners to try working with a yacht

advantage of the boats staying here for the summer.

manager. We help owners and captains navigate the complexities of yacht ownership, management and operation, and that’s our added

What about the upcoming summer season?

value. We have this enormous knowledge base at Hill Robinson, with

We did see a number of charters booked for last summer rescheduled

200 people who work for the company with a huge expanse of hands-

to take place this summer, and there were a lot of owners who were

on experience. That is all available to our clients, and I encourage

extremely understanding and amenable to rescheduling. Flexibility

every single one to take advantage of it fully, even if it’s only to get

was key, and we are having a very busy season this year as a result.

started. Our goal is to work as a team to make sure the Boss is always looking forward to spending time on their boat, and that they have the

What are some of the key yachting trends you’re seeing in the

reassurance that every potential hurdle will be handled responsibly,

market right now?

accurately and with their best interests at heart.

Regarding the brokerage market, I’ve seen a lot of interest in smaller boats and a lot of boats selling quickly. Over here in the States, there is a very low inventory — if you see something, you have to act fast. When it comes to charter, we’ve seen a lot of requests for multi-generational family charters. Being able to have everybody together and be safe has been an integral theme to charter this year.

187

S P OT L I G H T O N

Savannah Yacht Center FACILITIES INCLUDE:

— 140 metre dry dock — Shiplift — Rail transfer system — Multiple workshops

—— Following significant expansion and an extensive refit of their own in 2019, Savannah Yacht Center has quickly become one of the leading refit facilities on the US east coast. A company whose founding philosophy is one of respect and integrity, the dedicated and service-led approach of their visionary team aligns closely with Hill Robinson’s own methodology. The Savannah Yacht Center is a deep-water facility,

entrepreneurial spirit and great importance placed on building lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with customers, partner companies and the local community. “The cornerstone of our success is our founder’s commitment to building a company with a reputation for unquestionable integrity and service,” comments Savannah Yacht Center Vice President, Jim Berulis. “While our facilities and operations have become decidedly more modern, our corporate philosophy has remained the same: to be successful, you must always earn the respect and confidence of those with whom you do business. That belief is not only the bedrock of our successful past but also the foundation of our bright future.”

purposefully designed for the refit, repair and maintenance of superyachts. The modern shipyard has the ability to host multiple yachts in excess of 60 metres, and offers over 366 metres of floating dock for in-water service. The shipyard is owned by the Colonial Group, one of the largest privately held companies in the United States. 188

The multigenerational company is guided by an

Written by Roxanne Hughes

“ The cornerstone of our success is our founder’s commitment to building a company with a reputation for unquestionable integrity and service.” JIM BERULIS VICE PRESIDENT — SAVANNAH YACHT CENTER

189

190

Spotlight On: Savannah Yacht Center

The shipyard can facilitate end-to-end refit and maintenance works.

The shipyard’s list of clientele includes some of the

“Establishing a working relationship with Hill Robinson

superyacht world’s most iconic vessels, with several

has helped us provide a better service to our customers.

notable Hill Robinson projects among them.

Hill Robinson is very familiar with how we work and their support makes for a smoother yard experience. Joint

In spring of 2019 Hill Robinson were appointed project

planning prevents delays and controls costs, and a

managers for the hull paint of a 78 metre Lurssen, and

good information exchange prior to the yard period

were appointed again in winter 2020 to project manage

allows the vessel to return to service sooner,” says

the exterior hull paint of the same owner’s most recent

Jim Berulis

purchase — a 60 metre Lurssen. The paint works were completed by Pinmar, who are just one of the many

Service facilities at Savannah Yacht Center include a

best-in-class affiliates the Savannah Yacht Center

140-metre dry dock, a shiplift and rail transfer system

has aligned themselves in partnership with.

for vessels up to 3,240 gross tons, as well as multiple warehouses and workshops for machinery and fabrication. For crew, Savannah Yacht Center offers a hospitable array of amenities. As well as the crew lounge, gym and fitness centre, there’s also a bar and bistro restaurant on site.

“ We have been delighted with the level of service provided to our clients at Savannah Yacht Center. 68-metre Aviva (Abeking & Rasmussen) has undergone works at Savannah Yacht Center on three occasions and in every instance, works have been completed to an exemplary standard, on time and in accordance with budget expectations.”

Visiting crew benefit from discounts and offers from local businesses just two miles down the road in downtown Savannah, and excursions can be easily arranged through the shipyard’s concierge service.

CHRIS WRIGHT SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER — HILL ROBINSON

191

192

LET’S TALK ABOUT SHARKS As apex predators, sharks play an important role maintaining the species below them in the food chain and they serve as an indicator for the general health of the ocean. As such, it is vitally important for us to understand sharks, to protect them, and to educate ourselves as to their necessity.

Written by Jim Dobson

193

194

Let’s Talk About Sharks

FATALITIES CAUSED BY SHARKS PER YEAR

150

FATALITIES CAUSED BY FALLING COCONUTS

450

FATALITIES CAUSED BY FALLING OUT OF BED

—— By helping to remove the weak and the sick, sharks are intrinsic to the population regulation of the many species in our oceans, and ensure species diversity.

With over 100 million sharks killed each year by fisheries alone, scientists have discovered that sharks are worth more alive than dead. According to Lee Campbell with Project Aware, “There’s one study of reef sharks in Palau which concluded that a reef shark was worth just over $100 if fished, but would be worth $179,000 per year through tourism, with that shark having a lifetime value of $1.9 million.”

Hollywood has made us afraid of sharks, portraying them as monsters, but they are often hunted down for the wrong reasons. Sharks need

When it comes to how dangerous sharks are to humans, 2020 was the

our help to protect them and we must educate ourselves about

deadliest year since 2013, with 10 unprovoked shark attacks resulting in

their necessity.

fatalities. Six of the fatal bites occurred in Australia, three in the U.S. and one in the waters of St. Martin in the Caribbean. Great white sharks were

Dispelling the Hollywood myth, you actually only have a one in 3.7

involved in six of the year’s 10 fatalities. Some scientists are attributing

million chance of being killed by a shark. Falling coconuts are more

the high number of great white shark attacks to global warming,

likely to cause you a problem (150 fatalities a year) or even falling out

changing fish populations and migratory habits.

of bed (450 fatalities a year). In comparison, sharks are responsible for an average of 13 deaths every year worldwide.

Expert Stefanie Brendl with Shark Allies says there is strong potential from eco-tourism, “Places like Palau and the Bahamas have greatly

Sharks also help fight global warming; a greater number of large

benefited from being shark diving meccas. Most importantly, by way

species like sharks in our oceans helps to reduce the carbon dioxide

of the ecosystem services that sharks fulfil for the planet, and us,

being released into our atmosphere. An ocean without predators

for free. We cannot replace that function once it’s gone.”

could be devastating for marine life, as well as life on land, and we will potentially lose the fish we rely on so heavily for food. Sharks and

Thoughtful tourism is important in the conservation of sharks. Choose

other large predators also absorb greenhouse emissions and can

responsible eco-tour operators, choose sustainably sourced seafood,

transfer this into ocean bed storage when they sink to the bottom

avoid plastics and chemicals that end up in oceans. And spread the

upon death. However, human poaching for shark fins and fishing

word from your amazing up-close experiences with these majestic

prevents this from happening, reducing the ocean’s intake of carbon.

animals, who could help to save the world. 195

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS

—— Cruising through the most beautiful and remote marine destinations is what inspires yacht owners around the globe. With crystal blue waters and unpopulated beaches surrounding tropical islands, yachties discover a unique world not typically available to the average traveller. Spectacular coral reefs, dramatic deep-sea drop-offs and cavernous caves offer up an entire underwater world of exotic marine life. One of the ultimate bucket list adventures is surely to swim with sharks, and have the extraordinary chance to encounter these apex predators eye to eye. Many assume that scuba diving certification is required for these adventures, but often that’s not the case and even novice swimmers can take a dip with a shark. Some operators will even bring a shark cage directly to your yacht for an experience your guests will never forget. We spoke with the world’s leading shark diving experts on selecting the best experience globally, from cage diving with Great Whites at Mexico’s Guadalupe Island to swimming with hammerheads in the Philippines while supporting the stability of the species. According to Dr. Craig O’Connell with the O’Seas Conservation Foundation, “The best dive companies make the animals a priority and the experience is about the animals rather than the person running the tours. If you do your research before booking your shark diving experience, you will notice the level of care each organisation has towards the animals, the environment, and your safety.” And if you want to make environmentally ethical decisions, should you avoid cage diving? Stefanie Brendl, founder of US-based nonprofit organisation Shark Allies says, “Cage diving opens the door to many more people meeting sharks, including the very young and old, 196

disabled people and those who are afraid of the ocean. It also provides

a safe way to observe species like Great Whites that, without a cage, should only be interacted with by extremely experienced, well-trained divers. In locations where one sees mostly reef sharks, cages are not needed, and when good operators accompany you, diving with tigers and hammerhead sharks is also possible without a cage.” Shark conservationist Dr. Andy Cornish, Leader of WWF Sharks, discusses the benefit of shark diving, “Diving with sharks — particularly the larger, more charismatic species — is one of the most exciting experiences out there for many recreational divers. Some people will travel around the planet for such an opportunity. Whole industries have sprung up to support shark-focused tourism in many locations (including snorkelling with whale sharks), and places like the Maldives, Galapagos Islands, the Bahamas, and South Africa have become internationally famous for their shark diving. Shark tourism has been positive, bringing in new income streams and creating jobs for local coastal communities, and in turn leading to better conservation.” And finally, shark research expert Dr. Mauricio Hoyos, with Pelagios Kakunjá, talks about the rapid decline in the shark population. “The overfishing of sharks happens because of the huge demand and a lack of management to ensure shark fisheries are sustainable. Around 100 million sharks may get killed annually, often targeted for their fins for shark fin soup.” Dr Mauricio expands further on the figures, “Researchers have recently determined that the global population of sharks and rays has crashed by more than 70% in the past 50 years, with massive on-going losses pushing many species towards extinction. We still have time to avoid many species’ collapse by understanding the importance they have in our marine ecosystems. We must start by educating ourselves and leave behind ignorant beliefs that sharks are mindless, dangerous animals. We must also identify the different threats they are facing in various countries to develop scientific, management and conservation programmess that will protect them.”

A school of sharks convene to feed. There are many unobtrusive ways to observe sharks in their natural habitat. Cage divers come face to face with a Great White.

197

Swimming with Sharks

—— Here are a few of the top shark diving locations for your next yachting adventure as selected by some of the world’s leading shark experts and divers…

MALAPASCUA ISLAND PHILIPPINES

OPERATOR

THRESHER SHARK DIVERS SHARKS

HAMMERHEAD & WHITETIP The Philippines has hundreds of shark dives featuring whale sharks, reef sharks and zebra sharks. But shark enthusiasts keep returning to the Philippines for one dive in particular — Monad Shoal in the tiny island paradise of Malapascua. Monad Shoal was made into a marine park to protect the sharks and contains the most prolific thresher shark sightings in the world. According to Andrea Agarwal of Thresher Shark Divers, “We have been able to put laws in place for the sharks and they are now legally protected with a police patrol to back it up. This has meant that in my 18 years there, the population of sharks has actually increased instead of decreased.”

BIMINI BAHAMAS

OPERATOR

NEAL WATSON’S BIMINI SCUBA CENTER SHARKS

TIGER & HAMMERHEAD Only two destinations offer dedicated tiger shark dives, South Africa and the Bahamas. Bimini at Tiger Beach, off West End, Grand Bahama, is the perfect destination for the Great Hammerhead Safari. As a cage-free adventure, you’ll wait in groups on the sandy bottom as the sharks circle for several minutes in crystal clear and warm water. Diving at Tiger Beach requires scuba certification, but there is also a Bullrun Shark Cage option for the less scuba inclined. Neal Watson, who runs Bimini Scuba Center, and is the most preferred outfitter among experts, says, “There’s a lot we can do to save the sharks. Find out where your seafood comes from, avoid longline fisheries and use your tourism dollars to visit locations and operations that help protect sharks.” 198

REST OF THE WORLD

Other popular shark diving destinations that were selected by the experts include Rangiora in French Polynesia, False Bay in South Africa, Gladden Split in Belize, Cocos Island in Costa Rica, Gordon Rock in Galapagos, and Molokai’s Fish Rain in Hawaii.

GUADALUPE ISLAND MEXICO

OPERATOR

HORIZON CHARTERS & INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES SHARKS

GREAT WHITE SHARK One of the four places in the world to dive with great white sharks, Isla Guadalupe is one of the most famous and highly recommended by every expert. Here you can dive with these huge sharks using open-top cages for safe viewing up-close. The remote island, located 150 miles off the west coast of Mexico’s Baja California, is only accessible by superyacht or ‘liveaboard’ dive boat due to its location, but it has an enormous concentration of great white sharks. Scuba certification is not required for this experience. Dr. Mauricio Hoyos says, “Cage diving is often controversial because baiting the animals has been linked with potentially negative effects including habitat use, surface behaviour, bioenergetics, conditioning, as well as an increase in the frequency of interactions with humans. At Guadalupe Island, the study of the effects of ecotourism is a priority for the local authorities in supporting the conservation of this species.”

VITA LEVU FIJI

OPERATOR

BEQA ADVENTURE DIVERS SHARKS

BULL, TIGER & REEF Billed locally as the “Best Shark Dive in the World,” the shark dive itself is located on the reef off the Southern coast of Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu, where you can experience up to eight species of sharks. Beqa Adventure Divers have worked closely with the Government of Fiji and the traditional owners of Shark Reef to have it designated as the protected Shark Reef Marine Reserve. The Reserve was created to study the resident shark population and, in turn, aid in the long-term conservation of sharks worldwide. Mike Neumann, Director of Beqa Adventure Divers, says, “As ecotourism operators, all of us need to strive to have the smallest possible negative impact on the animals and their habitat, and we also need to operate safely.” 199

I N PR OFI L E

200

MEAMINA F O R CH ARTER YEAR/REFIT

2009/2016

BUILDER

BENETTI

LENGTH

59.3M (194'6")

GUESTS

CABINS

201

202

OUR GLOBAL REACH MONACO

USA

8 Quai Antoines 1er Monte Carlo MC 98000 Monaco +377 9310 2929 monaco@hillrobinson.com

1845 Cordova Road, Suite 212 Fort Lauderdale FL 33316, USA +1 954 792 6112 usa@hillrobinson.com

201 Haverstock Hill Belsize Park, London NW3 4QG, United Kingdom +44 2074 435 596 uk@hillrobinson.com

FRANCE

USA

CYPRUS

Résidences du Port Vauban 17 Av du 11 Novembre 06600 Antibes, France +33 492 90 5959 france@hillrobinson.com

2010 Avenue B West Palm Beach FL 33404, USA +1 954 792 6112 usa@hillrobinson.com

Building F2, Marina Lemesou Street Limassol Marina, 3601 Limassol Cyprus +357 25 025 750 cyprus@hillrobinson.com

ITALY

CHANNEL ISLANDS

SAUDI ARABIA

Porto Lotti, Viale San Bartolomeo 394 19126 La Spezia, Italy +39 0187 532 270 italy@hillrobinson.com

PO Box 191, Elisabeth House Ruettes Brayes, St. Peter Port Guernsey GY1 4HW, Channel Islands +44 1481 816 6415 uk@hillrobinson.com

Office No 7, Second Floor, Shahad Al Tahliya Commercial Centre, 9170 Ash Shihri, 23326-3774, Jeddha, Al Andalus, Saudi Arabia +966 126 337 777 info@hillrobinson.com

SPAIN

ISLE OF MAN

AUSTRALIA

Avinguda de Gabriel Roca, 37B, 07014 Palma de Mallorca Spain +34 971 675 888 palma@hillrobinson.com

Second Floor, 14 Athol Street Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 1JA, British Isles +44 1624 622 523 iom@hillrobinson.com

G50, Level 1, Gold Coast City Marina 76-84 Waterway Drive, Coomera Queensland 4209, Australia +61 755 731 764 asiapacific@hillrobinson.com

GENERAL ENQUIRIES

NEW BUSINESS ENQUIRIES

VISIT

lovethesea@hillrobinson.com

new@hillrobinson.com

hillrobinson.com | hrcrew.com

Harbour magazine is published by Hill Robinson. Reproduction in whole or part without prior written consent of the publisher is prohibited. While every care and effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy and validity of the information contained herein, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions that may have occurred. Quoted dates, times, yacht names, particulars and prices are all subject to change and the publisher cannot be held accountable for misrepresentation prior to or post publication date. Copyright Hill Robinson 2021. All rights reserved.

OUR SERVICES

New Construction

Corporate & VAT Services*

Yacht Management

Charter Management

ISM/ISPS/MCA Compliance

Crew Selection

Operational Support

Crew Employment & Payroll

Financial Administration

ELITE Academy

Technical Support & Refits

Aviation Charter & Management

Condition Surveys

Retail Charter

Procurement & Spares

Sales & Purchase

www.hillrobinson.com *Hill Robinson Limited is licensed by the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority