Imperial Charter Directory - 2019 edition

...

C H A RT E R D I R E C T O RY 2 0 19

LUXURY

YACHTING

360°

...

...

As yachts have grown ever larger and more complex, our role at Imperial has become ever more important – and with each passing year, we have further broadened and integrated our operations to reflect that…

We have worked tirelessly to make that advantage count. While some yacht charters are merely holidays afloat, we are committed to doing more. From the yacht, the crew, the location and the itinerary to the food, the activities, the service and the support, an Imperial charter is not just a week away. It’s a perfectly tailored expression of your personality, your preferences and your ambitions.

As a global, multi-faceted company, we offer the market’s most complete, most bespoke and most modern superyacht service.

From initial concept, through design and construction, to maintenance, charter, marketing and finance, we are equipped to take charge of every element of the yachting experience and it’s precisely this unflinching 360-degree approach that has enabled us to forge ahead in the charter market.

Welcome to the 2019 Imperial Charter Directory.

Welcome to a better yachting experience. ...

Evgeniy Kochman, CEO Imperial Julia Stewart, Monaco Office Director

We preside over a charter fleet of a scale and calibre unmatched anywhere in the world. It includes exclusive access to 80-metre plus superyachts like RoMEA (Abeking & Rasmussen 81.8m) and to thrilling charter platforms like LILI (Amels 55m). It also includes access to newly available yachts like LEGENDA (Mondomarine 41.4m); and it involves the same quality of crew, the same fastidious shore support, the same 24-hour concierge service and the same in-house experience that has won us such an impeccable reputation on the world’s superyacht stage.

...

WELCOME

...

AMADEA L Ü R SS E N 106.10m

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CONTENTS ...

YAC H T D I R E C T O RY ...

8 WHY IMPERIAL?

10 0 C H A R T E R I N D E X

THROUGH-LIFE EXPERTISE FROM PROVEN PROFESSIONALS

E V E RY ST Y L E , E V E RY S I Z E , E V E RY D E ST I N AT I O N

10 C H A R T E R T I P S

102 T H E I M P E R I A L F L E E T

T H E S I M P L E W AY T O B E G I N Y O U R C H A R T E R E X P E R I E N C E

A G L I M P S E I N S I D E T H E W O R L D ’ S F I N E S T C H A R T E R YA C H T S

12 YA C H T I N G C A L E N D A R 2 019

15 4 D E B U T C H A R T E R

P R E ST I G I O U S L I F E ST Y L E E V E N TS F R O M A R O U N D T H E G LO B E

A C A P TA I N ’S AC C O U N T O F L E G E N D A

14 T H E A R T O F ‘ H I G H - E N D ’

16 0 T H E P E R F O R M A N C E F L E E T

W H Y L U X U RY M AT T E R S : P E T E R H A R R I S O N , R I C H A R D M I L L E C E O E U R O P E

PAC E W I T H PA N AC H E : A C H A R T E R I N T H E FA ST L A N E

18 T H E I M P O R T A N C E O F T H E I N D I V I D U A L

16 6 T H E S A I L I N G F L E E T

CLIENT-DRIVEN FOCUS WITH NOBISKRUG CEO, HOLGER KAHL

E L E M E N TA L T H R I L L S F O R T H E S A I L I N G A F I C I O N A D O

22 I N V I T I N G N AT U R E I N S I D E A B E T T E R B R E E D O F YA C H T W I T H C E L E B R A T E D D E S I G N E R , S A N D E R S I N O T

SERVICES ...

176 N E W C O N S T R U C T I O N

CRUISING GUIDE ...

28 W E S T E R N M E D I T E R R A N E A N S P I R I T U A L H O M E O F T H E S U P E R YA C H T C H A R T E R 32 T H E R E A L R I V I E R A F I R S T - H A N D R E F L E C T I O N S F R O M T H E C O T E D ’A Z U R 48 EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN A N C I E N T P L AY G R O U N D S I N C R O A T I A , T U R K E Y & G R E E C E 62 N O R T H E R N E U R O P E M A R I T I M E H OTS P OTS F R O M B E R G E N TO ST P E T E R S B U R G 66 INDIAN OCEAN TROPICAL ESCAPE AMONG THE MAGICAL MALDIVES 68 POSTCARD PERFECTION SEYCHELLES MEMORIES FROM THE BRIDGE OF LILI 76 C A R I B B E A N I C O N I C M E LT I N G P OT O F P I R AT E S , R U M & R E G G A E 84 THE AMERICAS F R O M A L AS K A TO A N TA R C T I C A : A C O N T I N E N T R E D I S C OV E R E D 92 S O U T H E AS T AS I A R E M OT E I S L A N D S ; A - L I ST R E T R E ATS ; U N I Q U E C U I S I N E

U N ST I N T I N G C A R E , U N L I M I T E D A M B I T I O N 182 S A L E + P U R C H A S E T H E P U L L I N G P O W E R O F A G L O B A L YA C H T I N G S P E C I A L I S T 18 4 YA C H T M A N A G E M E N T M A X I M I S I N G T H E P L E A S U R E O F YA C H T O W N E R S H I P 18 6 YA C H T M A R K E T I N G INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS WITH PROVEN RESULTS

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

006 • 007

...

AMORE VERO OCEANCO 86.00m

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

WHY IMPERIAL? SPECIALIST CREDENTIALS

...

...

At Imperial, Luxury Yachting 360° is not just a company motto; it’s the guiding principle behind a full-spectrum approach to all things marine.

It even attends to the vital logistics of your shore-based experience – including restaurant reservations and nightclub bookings; tickets for concerts and sporting events; as well as exclusive transfers by jet, helicopter or luxury car. At Imperial, your ‘Off-the-Yacht’ pleasures are an integrated part of the Luxury Yachting 360° experience. The options are of course boundless, but with first-hand knowledge of even the most far-flung destinations, allied to an in-depth understanding of each and every yacht, Imperial is well placed to devise your ideal charter plan.

From design and build to management, marketing and brokerage, every element of the yachting experience is orchestrated with patience, precision and expertise - and when you charter one of the company’s yachts, that same approach is central...

Imperial’s handpicked, multilingual team manages a fleet of the world’s finest yachts, crewed by the industry’s most experienced professionals and deployed among the planet’s most seductive cruising grounds.

However, Imperial doesn’t just match your needs to the right yacht, the right destination and the right cruising plan. It also inspects the yacht, negotiates the best terms, helps with embarkation and provides continued support during your charter.

From Alaska to the Great Barrier Reef; from Turkey to Antarctica; from 20-metre motor cruisers to 100-metre-plus megayachts and from hedonistic A-list resorts to remote tropical sanctuaries, an Imperial charter is not just a holiday. It’s a carefully tailored expression of your personality and ambitions.

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

FIVE REASONS

...

WHY IMPERIAL? ...

QUALITY

...

Its charter fleet comprises the world’s most exclusive yachts, spread across the seven seas, not just in peak season, but all year round.

S E RV I C E

...

Imperial’s experienced, multilingual 24-hour concierge service is ready to assist, seven days a week, at any time of year & in any part of the world.

PEDIGREE

...

The Imperial team’s extensive experience of global circumnavigation means authentic, first-hand knowledge of every conceivable charter option.

EXPERIENCE

...

Highly experienced brokers, captains & crews are painstakingly recruited & then trained to meet Imperial’s stringent internal standards.

FLEXIBILITY

...

A personalised approach enables a fully bespoke itinerary, tailored to your tastes in all regards.

008 • 009

...

AMADEA L Ü R S S E N 10 6 . 10 m

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CHARTER ESSENTIALS TEN KEY QUESTIONS

1

2

3

4

HOW DO I BOOK A CHARTER YA C H T ?

CAN THE

C A N I TA K E MY

CAN I TAKE

DOES IMPERIAL

I T I N E R A RY B E

OWN STAFF?

THE KIDS?

OFFER CORPORATE

...

Call the Imperial team and you will be assigned a charter broker – a specialist who will listen to your requirements, from destination and timings to interests and special requests. A recommended yacht and itinerary will then be presented to you on the basis of this conversation.

TA I LO R E D T O R E F L E C T MY TASTES?

...

Absolutely. Tell Imperial about the ages, tastes and profiles of those involved, because an itinerary can be designed to encompass everything from cultural tours, sporting events and active pursuits to lazy days ashore or long, undisturbed evenings at anchor.

...

That depends on whether there is adequate capacity to accommodate extra personnel. If so, you can certainly take your own staff but if not, Imperial is always able to organise first-class staff on your behalf.

...

RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 8 1. 8 0 m

...

It’s fine to take children on board and if you talk to your broker in advance it may even be permissible to take the family pet. The yacht, destination, crew and itinerary can also be orchestrated to suit your needs, with family-friendly catering, destinations and pursuits all built into the plan.

5 CHARTERS?

...

Yes. Whether you book a charter yacht for client entertainment or staff reward, it makes a fresh and invigorating change from the norm. It can be the perfect hideaway for discreet business negotiations – and with some vessels capable of accommodating dozens of people at a time, there are very few venues that can match it for an upmarket conference.

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

10 K E Y Q U E S T I O N S

...

HOW TO CHARTER ...

Whether you are new to yachting or a seasoned adventurer, Imperial’s expertise in the charter industry enables it to create and oversee a broad range of fuss-free yacht charter experiences. Its specialist teams are well equipped to answer any queries you might have but for those starting out, these ten basic questions are a good place to begin.

6

7

8

IS A CORPORATE

CAN I SELECT A

CHARTER SIMILAR

SPECIFIC CREW?

T O A H O L I D AY CHARTER?

10

HOW SHOULD

ARE THERE ANY

WHAT ABOUT

I CONDUCT

HIDDEN COSTS?

TIPPING?

MYS E L F ?

...

Just relax.

There are no prescriptive expectations. Dress in whatever way makes you feel comfortable and behave in whatever way enables you to enjoy your charter to the utmost. Your crew will always be rigorously professional and entirely discreet.

...

In addition to the basic charter cost, there is usually an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA) of around 25%.

This enables the crew to stock up on fuel and food in accordance with the input of your charter broker.

Any funds left over will be returned to you.

...

The timing and scale of any tips are of course at your discretion.

However, the average is around 10% of the charter value and this can be paid at the end of your voyage, either directly to the Captain or indirectly via your broker.

0 10

...

Yes. Like a holiday, you can specify the venue and the duration; you can organise it around a specific highprofile event such as the Cannes Film Festival; and you can benefit from the same comprehensive level of staffing as a luxury charter, with all service and catering provided.

...

The crew tends to come with the yacht, so repeat charter customers will often specify a particular vessel in order to be certain of a reunion. However, if this is your first charter, tell your broker what kind of crew you favour. From relaxed and outgoing to slick and formal, a yacht can then be selected to match your preference.

9

• 0 11

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

2 019 C A L E N D A R DATES FOR THE DIARY

CALENDAR

...

2 0 1 9 ...

From the globe’s most iconic art, fashion and luxury events to the finest international yacht shows and sporting classics, the 2019 yachting calendar is rich with possibilities.

Provisional dates correct at time of publication but may be subject to change

...

RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 8 1. 8 0 m

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

JA N U A RY 4 – 2 3 ST B A R TS M U S I C F E ST I VA L 19 – 2 7 B O O T D U S S E L D O R F 24 – 27 MONTE CARLO RALLY 25 – 27 ST M O R I T Z S N OW P O LO W O R L D C U P 31 – 3 F E B S U P E R YA C H T C H A L L E N G E , A N T I G U A

F E B R U A RY 14 – 18 YA C H T S M I A M I B E A C H 16 – 2 0 L O N D O N F A S H I O N W E E K ( A W 19 ) 2 5 – 6 M A R P A R I S F A S H I O N W E E K ( A W 19 ) 2 6 – 2 M A R D U B A I I N T E R N AT I O N A L B OAT S H OW

MARCH 7 – 9 O R I S C L A S S I C C A R R A L L Y, M A L L O R C A 9 – 12 L O R O P I A N A C A R I B B E A N S U P E R YA C H T R E G A T T A , V I R G I N G O R D A 12 – 15 M I P I M I N T E R N A T I O N A L P R O P E R T Y E V E N T, C A N N E S 2 5 – 31 B V I S P R I N G R E G A T T A & S A I L I N G F E S T I V A L 2 8 – 31 P A L M B E A C H I N T E R N A T I O N A L B O A T S H O W 2 9 – 31 A R T B A S E L , H O N G K O N G

APRIL 5 – 7 BAHRAIN F1 GRAND PRIX 12 – 14 C H I N E S E F 1 G R A N D P R I X , S H A N G H A I 11 – 14 S I N G A P O R E YA C H T S H O W 13 – 21 M O N T E C A R L O R O L E X M A S T E R S T E N N I S 17 – 2 3 P A N E R A I C L A S S I C YA C H T R E G A T T A , A N T I G U A 2 7 – 01 M AY P A L M A S U P E R YA C H T S H O W 3 0 – 3 M AY M Y B A C H A R T E R S H O W , B A R C E L O N A

M AY 9 – 13 L O N D O N O N W A T E R 14 – 2 5 F E S T I V A L D E C A N N E S 18 W O R L D S U P E R YA C H T A W A R D S , L O N D O N 24 – 26 MONACO F1 GRAND PRIX 2 3 – 2 9 J U L STA R S O F T H E W H I T E N I G H TS , ST P E T E R S B U R G 2 8 – 9 J U N F R E N C H O P E N T E N N I S , R O L A N D - G A R R O S , PA R I S 2 8 – 31 L O R O P I A N A S U P E R YA C H T R E G A T T A , S A R D I N I A 2 9 – 2 J U N L E S V O I L E S D ’A N T I B E S

JUNE 6 – 8 ST P E T E R S B U R G I N T E R N AT I O N A L E C O N O M I C F O R U M 11 – 18 A U G R O YA L A C A D E M Y S U M M E R E X H I B I T I O N , L O N D O N 13 – 16 A R T B A S E L 2 0 – 2 3 C H I N A I N T E R N AT I O N A L B O AT S H O W, S H A N G H A I 21 – 2 3 J U M P I N G I N T E R N A T I O N A L D E M O N T E C A R L O 2 8 – 13 J U L M O N T R E U X J A Z Z F E S T I V A L

J U LY 1 – 14 W I M B L E D O N T E N N I S C H A M P I O N S H I P S , L O N D O N 12 – 21 J A Z Z A J U A N , A N T I B E S 13 – 2 0 P A N E R A I B R I T I S H C L A S S I C W E E K , C O W E S 16 – 2 0 N I C E J A Z Z F E S T I V A L

AU G U S T 1 – 5 SY D N E Y I N T E R N AT I O N A L B OAT S H OW 7 – 15 T I M E I N J A Z Z F E S T I V A L , S A R D I N I A 16 – 15 S E P L U C E R N E S U M M E R F E S T I V A L 18 – 2 0 O P E R A H O U S E C U P R E G A T T A , N A N T U C K E T 26 – 8 SEP US OPEN TENNIS, FLUSHING MEADOWS, NEW YORK 28 – 7 SEP BIENNALE CINEMA VENICE

SEPTEMBER 6 – 14 N E W Y O R K F A S H I O N W E E K ( S S 2 0 ) 12 – 17 C A N N E S YA C H T I N G F E S T I V A L 14 – 18 L O N D O N F A S H I O N W E E K ( S S 2 0 ) 19 – 2 5 M I L A N F A S H I O N W E E K ( S S 2 0 ) 21 – 2 8 R E G A T E S R O YA L E S D E C A N N E S 2 5 – 3 0 PA R I S FA S H I O N W E E K ( SS 20 ) 2 5 – 2 8 M O N A C O YA C H T S H O W 27 – 29 RUSSIAN F1 GRAND PRIX, SOCHI 28 – 6 O C T L E S V O I L E S D E ST T R O P E Z

OCTOBER 4 – 7 FRIEZE LONDON ART FAIR 5 – 6 P R I X D E L ’A R C D E T R I O M P H E , P A R I S 31 – 4 N O V F O R T L A U D E R D A L E I N T E R N A T I O N A L B O A T S H O W

• 013

DECEMBER 5 – 8 ART BASEL, MIAMI BEACH

012

NOVEMBER 23 – 25 ABU DHABI F1 GRAND PRIX

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

RICHARD MILLE Q&A WITH PETER HARRISON

01

RICHARD MILLE ...

IN PURSUIT OF PERFECTION I N CO N V E R S AT I O N W I T H P E T E R H A R R I S O N, EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA CEO OF HAUTE HOROLOGIST, RICHARD MILLE

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

...

What is the Richard Mille brand all about?

Horology is a very traditional sector. Nothing much has really changed in the way watches have been made in about 200 years, but when we came along, we devoted an enormous amount of time to working with new materials. So, for example, we changed the base plate of a watch, which was traditionally made of brass, to carbon nanofibre – and that altered the way the plate performed under pressure. There was a bit more flex to it and we put very small springs under several parts of the plate so that it could move more freely but still do its job. Perfecting that required six years of R&D (Research and Development) but since then, we’ve developed a lot of other materials.

Some may have been influenced by the aviation, automotive or marine industries, but our bold commitment to productive technical change is a really central part of what makes us different.

So your R&D is driven by practicality rather than lifestyle?

Yes indeed. That’s always the first goal – to enhance the performance of the watch, whether that’s in terms of its timekeeping, in terms of its compact proportions, in terms of its lightness or of its comfort. You can see parallels in the automotive sector with companies like McLaren; or in sport with the likes of Formula 1. Whether you’re trying to go faster or corner flatter, the final cost of the car is unrelated to what you’re trying to achieve at the outset. But of course these are not standard or run of the mill products.

If we want to make a watch that does X, Y and Z, achieving that could take three years or it could take ten years – so by virtue of the time and the R&D that goes into it, you inevitably end up with something which is very exclusive.

Is there an overlap between high-end horology and yachting?

Absolutely. In fact, there are quite a few areas. The kind of high-end yachting I personally do is Maxi racing, where you’re looking to shave off weight and achieve aerodynamic gain. You’re looking for all sorts of areas to make your boat go faster and perform better in different conditions and the margins are extremely fine. Research and development into carbon techniques is vital in the quest to make things lighter – and I think, when you’ve got people who are prepared to invest huge amounts of time, effort and money in order to save a few grams and enhance overall performance, that is a very clear crossover indeed. ...

01 Richard Mille is the main sponsor of Les voiles de St Barth 02 Richard Mille, watchmaker at work 03 Peter Harrison, CEO – Europe, Middle East & Africa

02

03

014 • 015

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

RICHARD MILLE Q&A WITH PETER HARRISON

04

05

...

...

Explain your relationship with your brand ambassadors.

Where possible, we like all our brand ambassadors to wear our watches while engaging in whatever happens to be their sporting field. Sometimes that’s possible; sometimes it’s not. But, for example, with Felipe Massa, the Formula 1 driver who’s just retired, having been an ambassador for us for ten years, we had some amazing feedback. Right from the beginning, we wanted him to wear a tourbillon watch and he wore it every day throughout his career. When he had his big crash in Hungary, both he and the watch came back in one piece and the G-forces he created in that instant are impossible to replicate within an R&D department. You simply can’t tell what will happen to a watch until you find someone willing to wear it and test it, so we get a lot of feedback from professional runners, from athletes, from motorcar drivers and now from sailors as well.

What’s been your most memorable experience on the water?

We managed to get a 72' going 26 knots downwind in quite a big sea off St Barths earlier this year. We were lucky enough to be followed by a drone, which managed to capture the moment forever. It’s a day’s sailing I’ll never forget.

Do you carry out much work within the yachting industry?

We’ve worked and will continue to work with North, the sail makers. In fact, we adapted their NTPT (North Thin Ply Technology) carbon, which was originally intended for sails, for use in the construction of watchcases. That was a really interesting crossover and it was commercially important too because it hadn’t been done before.

And of equal value to us is the profile of yachting. You’re never going to get the chance to jump into an F1 car with Fernando Alonso and do a couple of circuits with him while he’s racing in Le Mans or in the Indy 500. But in places like Sardinia and St Tropez, there are some great sailing conditions and it’s a chance for people to experience yacht racing at the highest possible level. A lot of our team is made up of ex America’s Cup Sailors - and people really enjoy that because it’s a genuine thrill and it’s precisely the element for which some of our timepieces have been designed.

What is the best thing about yachting?

I love being on and beside the sea but I have to be active and involved. I enjoy the spectacle and the scenery but the decadent side of it is not for me. What I really love is the adrenaline of close racing. It can be in a 72' or in quite a small boat like a J70, but either way, I love the combat of sailing with great tacticians and strategists. I’m fortunate in that I’m able to combine that with my day job and it’s a level of sport I never thought I’d be able to compete in when I started sailing 15 years ago.

What’s your favourite yachting destination?

St Barths. I like the reliability of the trade winds to get over there and the sailing’s really exciting with lots of natural marks to go round. Whether you’re doing the Caribbean 600, which is a fantastic offshore race, or whether you’re just doing a high-level, well-run regatta like Les Voiles de St Barths, it’s a great place to be.

If you could own one yacht, what would that be?

Great question. I’ve often thought about it – and if it was just one, I’d probably go with a TP 52. It gives you the flexibility to do lots of different things. You can race it and you can take it offshore but it handles like a dinghy, which I love. But just in general, I very much enjoy technology. I quite often see PINK GIN, the 53m Baltic yacht, going round the bay in front of me - and I love the fact that someone out there said: “Right, I want the biggest carbon monohull, single-masted sloop in the world.” I don’t think she would be very exciting to race but it’s just wonderful that she got built.

So how do you see the role of high-end luxury?

I remember someone saying to me that in all industries at the highest level, whether it’s yachting, horology or cars, it’s ultimately the duty of the rich man to employ the artisan – and I think that’s a very interesting approach. If you are in the fortunate position of ordering a new watch or a new boat, you’re employing engineers and technicians for work that then carries on into the broader marketplace. I think there’s some truth to that and it’s a useful idea to bear in mind. Whether in yachting or in watches, we do an enormous amount of R&D and it’s our clients who enable us to commit ourselves to that and to work on things that might not otherwise get done. At the top level, we’re able to do things and to try things that seem to make little commercial sense, but which are ultimately of great benefit to the industries we love. ...

04 Richard Mille ambassador, former F1 driver, Felipe Massa 05 Richard Mille is a key partner of Les voiles de St Barth 06 A unique spirit of competition & conviviality defines Les Voiles de St Barth 07 The thrilling excitement of racing with the crew 08 Le Mans classic 09 Alain Prost wearing the RM 70-01 Tourbillon Alain Prost 'Cycling' Watch 10 Richard Mille, Founder, Richard Mille 11 Painstaking precision is at the heart of high-end horology

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

06

07

08

09

10

11

016 • 017

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

NOBISKRUG Q&A WITH HOLGER KAHL

01

NOBISKRUG ...

THE CONSTRUCTOR’S PERSPECTIVE I M P E R I A L TA L KS TO H O LG E R K A H L, C E O O F N O B I S K R U G, 03 A B O U T U N I Q U E YA C H T P R O J E C TS , CRUISING IN THE BALTIC & THE FUTURE OF CHARTER

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

...

What makes Nobiskrug different?

At Nobiskrug, we are not a mass builder. It would of course be possible to boost our production lines and take more on, but this is a highly individual business with a strong and intensive focus on the customer. If you have too many jobs underway, you run the risk that each project will become a number – and here, each project has a face. In most cases it’s the face of the client and that’s part of what drives us to push ourselves, because at the heart of each project is the knowledge that we’re working for a unique individual.

What is the practical impact of that individuality?

It enables us to concentrate on the personal needs of the client rather than having to commit to too many projects and losing focus. A one-off yacht is the most luxurious thing you can buy, so it deserves this level of concentration and that’s why Nobiskrug is special. It is special because of its size, its focus and its central ideal about building individual products for individual clients.

Do you enjoy the challenges of that unique ‘one-off’ approach?

Absolutely. Individual builds are much more interesting than the semi-custom approach because everything is different. There is never a moment when you get bored. You’re permanently challenged by technical and commercial issues and that’s what makes our segment of the industry so exciting.

Presumably, you get some quite outlandish requests from your clients?

Our clients do tend to expect that our individual approach means they can have everything they want, but we still have to build yachts that follow the rules so not every wish can be granted without compromise. Instead, there’s an ongoing process of moderation that we carry out among the designers and technicians with the desires of the client at the forefront of the discussion. We have to explain to the client exactly why there might be certain restrictions and why this or that might be a valuable alternative.

We have to come to a solution that feels right for the customer. It’s just a question of how effective you are at the moderation stage.

So how does your collaboration with Imperial work?

It all started with Imperial managing a yacht that was built here about seven years ago (the 73.5m superyacht, PROJECT 783, delivered by Imperial in 2012 and managed by the company until its sale was finalised in 2017). At the time of delivery, it was sold to a new owner who was assisted by Imperial during the buying process and who appointed Imperial to manage the yacht. From then on, we collaborated on that yacht, talked about new projects and built some new motoryachts together, so it’s a collaboration that has covered the full range of Imperial services. That includes everything from the management side; from the advisory side during a sale and purchase project; from the advisory side during the construction period; and from the advisory side when there is a project under investigation to assess whether a client wants to make a purchase or not. It’s really easy to work with a company that has that kind of scope, experience and expertise. ...

01 Nobiskrug success story, PROJECT 783, 73.5 m 02 Holger Kahl, CEO Nobiskrug 03 The iconic SAILING YACHT A, 143.0 m

02

03

018 • 019

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

NOBISKRUG Q&A WITH HOLGER KAHL

04

05

...

...

What is the best thing about a charter holiday?

Well for me, the crucial question is what is the difference between being a charter guest and the owner of a yacht. Coming from the ownership side, you have your individual yacht conceived specifically for you; whereas if you’re chartering, you must have a certain tolerance by accepting aspects of the yacht that don’t necessarily match your personal wishes. But flexibility is key to the pleasures of charter. You can jump from one yacht to another whenever you like and it’s much easier to visit different parts of the world because you simply go to the place where a yacht happens to be. So a yacht that is good for charter must have real flexibility, both as an efficient owner’s yacht and as a versatile platform for multiple guests.

What kinds of on board toy do you most value in a place like the Baltic?

As you mostly anchor rather than lie at a berth in this area, the pursuits I like most are the noiseless ones - the stand-up paddling; the kiting; the surfing; being out with the dinghy and fishing. It’s not a place that works well for jetskis, dive boats or submarines.

It’s more about down-to-earth things that enable you to enjoy the surface of the water and a little bit of wind.

It sounds like you often tend to build with charter in mind?

Absolutely. We verify from the beginning whether charter should be an option because that flexibility has to be permanently factored into the layout and the operational effectiveness. For instance, if we look into the owner’s area, the private living space and dressing areas should be of an appropriate size and comfort but you also need to draw a clear line between what stays private and what is available for charter guests - and this also informs the layout of the guest cabins. Are they for a single family or do they need to be made more equal, so that there is no sense of ranking among cabins when guests come on board? There are so many things to consider when charter is likely to be involved, but that’s when sitting down with a company like Imperial makes so much sense. With their ability to advise owners on the construction of highly individual yachts, as well as their extensive charter experience, our collaboration is always very productive on both sides.

What’s you favourite cruising destination?

Definitely the Baltic region - the Swedish and Norwegian archipelagos, as well as the Danish islands. That whole area of Scandinavia is fantastic for cruising, with glorious landscapes, clean water, plenty of options for marinas and lots of cruising possibilities. And the big advantage is that the weather is not that reliable, so it’s not overcrowded like so many regions of the world. It’s just a question of wearing the right clothes but, if you have a summer like 2018, it is the most fantastic area – much better than the Caribbean; much better than the south of France. Maybe there are not that many discos or Michelin star restaurants on the beaches, but being outside in a beautiful landscape, on deep water but close to the land is very attractive.

For cruising, for sailing, it’s the best region in the world.

What yachting developments will we see in the next decade?

Whether for private use or for charter, flexibility in the deck areas is a trend that will continue. We will see much more open deck space that can be exposed to the sun but with the potential for it to become an air-conditioned area too. And accompanying that will be the issue of bringing more daylight into the superstructure. I know we’ve seen big windows before but this is a trend that will go further than ever before. After all, the client doesn’t want to sit in an enclosed space. They’re in some fantastic environments out at sea so they want to enjoy it. They want to see the horizon and that’s something they can only do if they have huge windows. However, it needs to be done right. They need to comply with regulations, be strong enough to resist green water and be effectively insulated with regards to temperature. The outside of the yacht must also be properly designed, because if you’re looking out of a window at a railing or a bulwark, that doesn’t make any sense. They must be smart solutions that work from a living as well as a technical point of view – solutions that make the yachting experience even better. ...

04 05 06 07 08

PROJECT 783 under construction at one of Nobiskrug’s German shipyards The impressive stern decks of PROJECT 783 Silent toys are the preferred option on Scandinavian waterways The Norwegian archipelagos are among Mr Kahl's favourite destinations PROJECT 783, underway alongside her flotilla of tenders and toys

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

06

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

07

08

020 • 0 21

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SINOT Q&A WITH SANDER J SINOT

01

SINOT ...

THE DESIGNER’S PERSPECTIVE I M P E R I A L TA L KS TO S A N D E R J S I N OT, FO U N D E R O F S I N OT YA C H T A R C H I T E C T U R E & D E S I G N , A B O U T W H AT M A K E S T H E YA C H T I N G E X P E R I E N C E S P E C I A L

...

...

How did you come to work in yacht design?

My educational background is in industrial design. I started my career in New York at the agency of Henry Dreyfuss and worked on industrial products, as well as aeroplanes, trains and speedboats. Upon my return to the Netherlands, I built a successful design agency, combining branding with industrial design, interior design and architecture, working globally for multinational firms. Then 12 years ago, a meeting with Henk de Vries from Feadship led to a vast expansion of our business in the Yachting and Residential industries, for the Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWI) client group. We now employ nearly 50 diverse and highly skilled employees in order to properly serve this demanding clientele with the highest level of architecture and design.

Has your varied background made you more fastidious with your yachts?

Absolutely. Not only does it help inform a yacht’s style, but it also makes me more knowledgeable about the use of certain materials, which not only work well from a functional and producible aspect, but also help bring the details together. You often see a beautifully designed profile but from the interior aspect, from inside out, there are still a lot of conversations to be had. So for us, it’s all about a complete design and a complete design philosophy. We understand that if you divide these things up, you can still have a nice interior and you can still have a nice exterior. But the match is seldom successful. ...

01 ART OF LIFE, exterior architecture design concept for MYS 2018 02 Sander J Sinot, Founder of Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

02

022 • 023

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SINOT Q&A WITH SANDER J SINOT

03

...

...

Are your designs more practical than most?

Well in many ways, yes. But it also depends on the type of client. Every year, we make a concept for the Monaco Yacht Show that is quite different to anything that has gone before. We try to inspire the market and our clients with something new. On the one hand, that is - and should be - an icon on the water. But on the other, it should not be just an icon. It’s about striking that balance between the iconic art piece and the way the yacht is actually used. In that regard, we are in the middle.

What kinds of toys do you most value on a yacht?

There’s so much variety in the kinds of toy you can have on board your yacht now but for me, it’s all about the SCUBA gear. It is far more beautiful beneath the water than most people realise – and in many ways, a yacht is a means of interacting with nature both above and below the surface.

What do you look for in a shipyard?

They need to be an A-brand, with extensive building experience and they need to be daring enough to try something new. Enlarging the glass facades or windows in the hull or superstructure comes with technical challenges. Certain yards are willing to see those challenges as opportunities while others prefer to stick to proven technology.

But to enjoy your work and to get the best possible results, you need to choose a partner who is happy to push the boundaries.

Is that why you enjoy working with Imperial?

Certainly. Recently we did a project that went very smoothly. We had a great client who appreciates our style and gave us the freedom to pursue our direction. And that’s enjoyable because, once you have that ‘chemical click’, things really fall into order. You don’t need too many sessions; you don’t need too many explanations.

Once you have your goal set, it’s easy to roll it out - and with Imperial ensuring the utmost clarity of communication throughout the process, it was even easier. We had a really good experience.* If you could own just one yacht, what would it be?

I couldn’t pick just one but, in all cases, a yacht should feel like your home. You should feel welcome as soon as you enter it; it should be your favourite place in the world - so colour-wise and form-wise, it should not be over-designed. Of course, the details should be in order and of a very high quality, but it should not feel overdeep in materials and colours. There should be a certain serenity. Not necessarily monochromatic, but a natural palette of tones and colours, with some popping colours in art pieces – the beautiful reds of Rothko or the blues of Yves Klein. But for sure it should be your own environment where you can completely relax.

Is that what yachting is about for you - serenity and relaxation?

Well sometimes, yes - but it’s really about your state of mind and the particular part of the day. For instance, sometimes you want to be active, sometimes you want to relax with friends and sometimes you want to party, so a yacht should be able to offer all of that; it should facilitate every desire. But I think being near the water, with your toys to hand; enjoying the water itself and not feeling like you’re contained in a floating capsule – that’s yachting at its best. Of course, every yacht needs interior spaces and it should always feel safe, but it should also feel open, so you never lose that sense that you’re in touch with the water.

* In 2018, Imperial confirmed the signing of a 77-metre superyacht project with Nobiskrug, Winch Design and Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design, which is set for delivery in 2021.

Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design studio will be in charge of the interior design

What’s your favourite cruising region?

I love the Caribbean. The British Virgin Islands is a special place because there’s so much variety in terms of sailing and diving. It’s a wonderful environment. But Croatia is also great because there are so many islands, so many beaches, such flexibility in cruising itinerary and it’s not crowded at all. If you go to the Cote d’Azur, there are a lot of boats and it can be very hard to find a little spot that gives you any real privacy, but in Croatia, you can still find a beautiful little bay between a couple of islands and have it all to yourself.

What’s your favourite cruising season?

I can be very enthusiastic about anywhere and any time - cold climates too because, when I was a marine, I visited a lot of fjords and explored the whole coastline of Norway. In some parts of that area, there are very few people and the natural landscapes are extraordinary. You see beautiful colours of blue in the ice and the water is so clear, the boat feels like it’s suspended in mid-air. The visibility is just incredible. You have 150-metre views when you’re diving, so I think it’s hard to say what my favourite season would be. I think I’m the perfect charter guest because I just love the planet I’m living on!

What kinds of design directions do you expect to see in the next decade?

I think yachts will become more open, so people can enjoy the scenery from the interior.

Having beautiful big windows in your hull, in your lounges or in your guest bedrooms brings an extra charter quality because it reminds you you’re at sea. You’ll see much more of your environment - and not just when you’re at anchor but when you’re sailing.

So you see glass as a structural building material?

Absolutely. We already do that on land – even in Japan where the buildings have to be earthquake-proof. But it’s also up to the clients to challenge themselves to become more knowledgeable about the possibilities. Glass technology today, with special coatings and layering, is incomparable to a few years ago. Windows of 12m x 3.5m are already possible and they’re strong like steel. But it still needs to be applied in intelligent ways.

For instance, on the one hand, you don’t want to have too much glass because then you’re in a glass bubble. A bit of architecture is useful. It’s nice to have a place to hang a painting and it’s nice to be able to dim the light or turn it off without being faced with mirror-like glass all around you. People will always want that degree of intimacy, so there needs to be a balance between where you want to have the large windows with a view and where you want to have an architectural environment, so you can feel more intimate and embraced. ...

03 04 05 06

Concept yacht, ART OF LIFE – stern lounge Concept yacht, ART OF LIFE – owner’s state room British Virgin Islands, a favourite cruising destination for Sander Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design studio and office, located in the Netherlands

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

04

05

06

06

06

024 • 025

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE ITINERARIES

2 019

...

CRUISING GUIDE ...

ITINERARIES ...

West Mediterranean – French Riviera • Corsica • Italian Riviera • Sardinia • Amalfi Coast • Sicily • Balearics East Mediterranean – Ionian Islands • Cyclades • Turkey • Croatia • Montenegro • Red Sea Northern Europe – Norway • Denmark • Sweden • Russia Indian Ocean – Maldives • Seychelles Caribbean – North Caribbean • Leeward Islands • Windward Islands The Americas – Alaska • Belize • Panama • Nicaragua • Costa Rica • Galapagos • Patagonia • Antarctica Southeast Asia – Indonesia • Philippines • Singapore • Vietnam • Thailand

026

•

027

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

WEST MEDITERRANEAN ...

With ancient maritime heritage, easy cultural elegance and radical contrasts between coastlines, the Western Mediterranean is the spiritual home of the yacht charter. From the fast-living glitz of the French Riviera to the dreamy, indulgent glamour of western Italy; from the hedonism and gentility of the Balearics to the pungent and unchangeable charm of Corsica’s timeless shores.

Now, as ever, the Western Mediterranean is a region of extraordinary allure.

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

French Riviera • Corsica • Italian Riviera • Sardinia • Amalfi Coast • Sicily • Balearics

WHEN TO GO APRIL – OCTOBER

028 • 029

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

A-LIST ADVE N TURE

...

The French Riviera is one of the most enticing destinations in the world. Here, between St Tropez and the Italian border, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean, shopping is an art form, eating out is high-end seduction and the streets are catwalks for the wealthy and well heeled. Its heritage is defined by glamorous personalities like Grace Kelly and Sophia Loren and its calendar is spiced with events like Monaco’s Formula 1 Grand Prix and the Cannes International Film Festival.

The Côte d’Azur remains the spiritual home of the superyacht and the world’s most indulgent A-list playground.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region French Riviera • Start Port Monaco • End Port Porquerolles • Distance < 110 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Marseille to San Remo • Peak yachting season May to August • Time zone UTC + 1 hour 1 M O N AC O

5 CANNES ILES DE LÉRINS

3 EZE

.. .

...

Monaco might be the world’s second smallest country but its reputation as the wealthiest and most glamorous place on earth is fully deserved. Ignore the beaches and head for the old town with its royal palace, luxury boutiques and beautiful urbanites. The Café de Paris, Louis XV restaurant and Casino de Monte Carlo are particularly memorable.

Eze is an impossibly picturesque Provençal village. Perching precariously on the edge of a steep cliff, its ancient zigzag streets are great for a stroll and there are plenty of art galleries, shops and restaurants to entertain. An alfresco meal at Michelin-starred Château Eza, overlooking your anchored yacht, is a truly indulgent experience.

2 VILLEFRANCHE

4 C A P D ’A N T I B E S

The sheltered natural yacht harbour of Villefranche-sur-Mer makes a fine anchorage for watersports against a backdrop of the 14th century citadel and port. Nearby St Jean Cap Ferrat, with its white sandy beaches, verdant hillsides and enviable peninsula setting, is home to some of the most expensive residential properties in the world.

Cap d’Antibes is a place of enduring legend. In addition to the expansive Juan-les-Pins beach resort, the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, with its private beach, spa and restaurant, is a wellestablished hotspot for touring glitterati.

A short distance inland lies Vence, one of the best preserved medieval settlements in the region and a famous hub for artistic inspiration.

.. .

7 PORQUEROLLES

...

...

The elegant, cosmopolitan city of Cannes offers everything from fine dining and luxury shopping to sparkling beaches and a vibrant nightlife. Across the bay, Île Sainte-Marguerite’s translucent creeks are great for a leisurely swim and the nearby Île Saint-Honorat is owned and run by Cistercian monks, who make and sell award-winning wines.

6 ST T R O P E Z

...

...

St Tropez is notorious for its high-end hedonism and nearby Pampelonne Beach has been a shining exponent of that ethos since Brigitte Bardot first embraced it in the 1950s. Today, the town’s old port is a great spot for superyacht cocktails and St Tropez tself is full of bars and nightclubs.

The star-studded Caves du Roy is a particular highlight.

Nice Cote d’Azur Airport 2

Cannes Mandelieu Airport

4 5

6

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Monaco – Villefranche-sur-Mer 15 Nm Villefranche-sur-Mer – Eze 10 Nm Eze – Cap d’Antibes 18 Nm Cap d’Antibes – Cannes 5 Nm Cannes – St Tropez 24 Nm St Tropez – Porquerolles 35 Nm

Toulon – Hyéres Airport

7

3

1

Just west of St Tropez, Porquerolles is a tranquil chain of islands and a protected nature reserve with ravishing white beaches and elegant coves. Robert Louis Stevenson was inspired to write Treasure Island here so if the French Riviera’s high-octane entertainments become a bit 2 much, the modest serenity of Porquerolles is the perfect tonic.

FRENCH RIVIERA A-LIST ADVENTURE

WHEN TO GO MAY – AUGUST

030 • 0 31

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

DESTINATIONS WEST MEDITERRANEAN

C O T E D ’A Z U R

...

THE CAPTAIN’S PERSPECTIVE ...

Imperial talks to Ben Meynell, Captain of M/Y RoMEA, about the fabled charter grounds of the French Riviera

...

...

IY: How would you characterise a charter on board RoMEA? BM: We pride ourselves on our standards of service. We aim to give the very best service that anyone can have so we’re in competition with six and seven-star hotels. We want to emulate that level of service on board but in a more relaxed and personal atmosphere than the big-scale hotel industry can achieve. So we very much tailor our services to the client. It obviously depends on where they’re from and what their requirements are but the aim of the game is to make it as luxurious and as relaxing as possible. We have repeat clients who come back to us specifically because of our ethos and the way we do things on board so we feel our service is at a very high level.

Does the French Riviera collaborate with you in that approach?

It does indeed. In the Riviera, you have the impeccable quality of the Monaco and St Tropez lifestyle and you have the relative solitude of places like Cap Camarat and the Porquerolles Islands a little bit further west. So there’s something for everyone here and that’s what makes it so good. You can be immersed among the stylish crowds of Monte Carlo or anchored among the islands off Cannes and have a walk ashore on a day when there are very few people around. It offers a good mix in that regard and it’s all within a very short distance. You can day trip between most of these places from St Tropez or Monaco and that allows us to tailor the itinerary to whatever desires our guests might have.

FRENCH RIVIERA WITH M/Y RoMEA

032

...

RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 8 1. 8 0 m

Q&A RoMEA CAPTAIN

â&#x20AC;¢ 033

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

DESTINATIONS WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

...

So the Cote d’Azur is about serenity as well as glamour?

Absolutely. Obviously, you don’t get the same degree of solitude as you might experience in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles, the Maldives or the Pacific. But we’ve spent a lot of time around the Cannes area on RoMEA and there are certainly places with far fewer boats – especially if you leave the stretch from Monaco to St Tropez and head toward the Porquerolles or further west. Places down south of Cap Camarat, like Cavalaire can be busy with French tourists but they’re not such a hotspot for the international crowd. Even further west toward Toulon and the Bandol wine region, there are also lots of beautiful bays, enabling you to enjoy the opposite end of the entertainment spectrum from the cocktails, the nightclubs and the boutiques of Monaco or St Tropez. In fact, the French President has a house in the area of La Lavandou (at an old military fort called Fort de Brégançon) so if he likes it, it must be good.

Are there any major gastronomic highlights?

There are multiple spots up and down the coast with regards to high-end food – too many to name. Monaco certainly has its fair share but for atmospheric high-end cuisine, I would head to the St Tropez area. For fresh fish, you’ve got some great restaurants there and the town’s side streets offer some beautiful places to dine. But having said that, I would say that RoMEA herself is a match for anything ashore and we do pride ourselves on that.

We have two very talented Head Chefs on board and our galley team is superb. We can present any style or technique of cuisine the guests require.

There’s obviously a difference in terms of the atmosphere, having a meal on board rather than in a shoreside restaurant, but people often say the food is better than anywhere they’ve ever been, which is a great compliment not only to the galley team but to our service staff as well.

Is RoMEA particularly well suited to a Cote d’Azur charter?

We’ve been based here since the yacht launched in 2015 and we operate mainly around this area during the summer months, so we have a good liaison with shore support, with Imperial and with local suppliers. In terms of what we can do for our guests, the word ‘can’t’ is not in our vocabulary.

We always want to be able to achieve whatever is required and, with the strong shore connections we have developed here over many years, we have a very big advantage.

What are the region’s most memorable destinations?

The Porquerolles Islands, just west of St Tropez are beautiful. It’s a little bit more difficult for a boat of this size to get there now because of restrictions in relation to the National Park, but certainly on smaller vessels, it’s a great area. I also love the area around Villefranche and Beaulieu-sur-Mer. It does get quite busy in summer, but the scenery below Éze and within the little bay of Villefranche is just stunning. I, personally, have been going there for many years and it’s a really wonderful spot to be anchored.

Are there any other places you like to show your guests?

Another anchorage our guests tend to enjoy is to be found among the Îles de Lérins - the islands just off Cannes. With the sun setting over Cannes and the island’s old castle and fort as a backdrop, that’s a gorgeous spot for an alfresco dinner in the evening. But what people don’t seem to realise is that there’s also an extraordinary amount of wildlife here. For example, there are a phenomenal amount of sperm whales that congregate in this area, from St Tropez up to Sanremo because of the canyons. So if you head just slightly off the coast, you can quite easily go whale watching around this area – and that illustrates how much more textured and interesting this place is than most people realise.

Where’s the best place for some high-end cocktails?

You obviously have the Nikki Beach style indulgence of Pampelonne Beach in St Tropez, but one of my favourite places to take our guests is Anjuna Beach, which is in Èze-sur-Mer. It has high-profile celebrities visiting all the time, the atmosphere is fantastic, the food is great and it’s a little bit more exclusive than the Pampelonne Strip. With the Èze mountaintop behind it and the fact that it’s the only bar on the beach, that would be a high spot for anyone looking for a memorably atmospheric cocktail next to the water with a beautiful backdrop – perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the French Riviera not only for its boutiques and its scenery but also for its style and atmosphere.

What kinds of toys are best suited to the region?

We have the full range of toys on board, from sailing dinghies and windsurfers to paddleboards, kayaks and jetskis. We have a whole inflatable set up for children too, so they can enjoy water park style activities at the back of the boat while their parents embrace a bit of child-free time. But while the most used toys on RoMEA in this part of the world are the jetskis and the paddleboards, there are also places on the French coast itself that are good for activities - like the Gorges du Verdon, where you can go for a hiking adventure. We have often taken people on excursions up into the mountains and we organise day activities for the children too, like pirate events and treasure hunts. Of course, our charter guests always tend to come with expectations about what they want to do, but we always try to tailor it and to make it better; to provide what they want but also to give them a much more enlightened experience than they were ever expecting.

Any advice to someone considering a charter in this region?

The possibilities are virtually endless. You can have the beach holiday; you can have the boutique shopping holiday; you can have the restaurant extravaganza. You can head for the mainland or the islands; for Italy or France; for the high-end sophistication of this coastline’s classic hub or the quieter, more rustic pleasures further west. So there are always options.

There’s always the ability to change from request to request and from one client to the next. You can mix it up and have everything you want within a very short stretch of coast and within a very short space of time - and that makes the Cote d’Azur unique in the world of charter.

FRENCH RIVIERA WITH M/Y RoMEA

Q&A RoMEA CAPTAIN

034 â&#x20AC;¢ 035

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

F R ANC O - I TALIAN INDULGENCE

...

The French island of Corsica is a lush, volcanic destination with a distinctly Italian flavour. On the east coast, the terrain is flat and beachy with a scattering of compact harbours, while in the west, a wild cascade of steep cliffs and rock stacks plunges unchecked into the open sea. Here, the complex deepwater shoreline creates a landscape that’s not just more dramatic but also more versatile for roaming superyachts. But whichever part of Corsica’s 600-mile coastline you favour, the island’s resolutely distinctive culture, cuisine and customs are a world apart from the mainstream charter destinations of Italy and France.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Corsica • Start Port St Florent • End Port Porto Vecchio • Distance < 160 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Corsica to Sardinia • Peak yachting season April to September • Time zone UTC + 1 hour

1 ST F LO R E N T

3 G I R O L ATA

...

...

The compact 15th century Genoese citadel of St Florent sits on the edge of some renowned fishing waters and wine producing regions. It is one of Corsica’s most vibrant port towns, with plenty of restaurants and some fine local beaches, not least in the form of Plage de Saleccia.

Just south of Scandola National Park lies a region of pristine coastal wilderness. At Porto, the 16th century watchtower and pretty marina are tempting; at Osani, the Plage de Gradelle offers fine views of the famous cliff structures at Calanques de Piana; and at Girolata, you find yourself right at the heart of the famous marine nature reserve.

With its resident population of TV celebrities, the ancient fortified town of Porto Vecchio enjoys a reputation as a distinctly prestigious destination. The narrow streets of the elegant old town and the pretty, café-lined marina enjoy a happy, languorous decadence – and the local beaches are first class

4 A J AC C I O

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

2 C A LV I

.. .

As the nearest port to mainland France, Calvi is a serious shipping hub with first-rate superyacht facilities. In classic Corsican style, the town’s convoluted web of ancient sun-drenched streets is wrapped in huge fortifications – and the continued existence of a fishing industry makes this steeply stacked town much more three-dimensional than most tourist resorts.

...

Tucked away in a hilly nook on the northern shore of a gulf, the scenery in and around Ajaccio is delectable. The old town is a traditional cluster of washed walls and shaded streets and the cafés, shops and restaurants are well up to par for the chic clientele that emanates from the lavish marina at Port Tino Rossi.

6 P O R TO V E C C H I O

...

St Florent – Calvi: 32 Nm Calvi – Girolata: 27 Nm Girolata – Ajaccio: 38 Nm Ajaccio – Bonifacio: 30 Nm Bonifacio – Porto Vecchio: 30 Nm

1

Poretta Airport

2

Calvi-Saint-Catherine Airport 3

Propriano Airport

4

6

Figari Sud-Corse Airport 5

5 B O N I FAC I O

...

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport

At the end of a narrow inlet between vertical cliffs, topped with craggy hilltop fortifications, the sunbleached Italianate citadel of Bonifacio is a spectacular destination. With an ancient harbour that is just as memorable as the interwoven alleyways of the old town, Bonifacio is a shining beacon for the gruff, organic loveliness of this salt-soaked island.

Cagliari International Airport

CORSICA FRANCO-ITALIAN INDULGENCE

WHEN TO GO APRIL – SEPTEMBER

036 • 037

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

...

THE LIGURIAN HIGH-LIFE

...

Like its French equivalent, the Italian Riviera features narrow waterfront strips against an Alpine backdrop, with high-end shopping and first-rate cuisine. Here, however, the shore is littered with fishing villages, some of which (like Portofino) have achieved super-chic status; and others (like those around La Spezia) that retain an authentic salt crust on their tumbling technicolour buildings. There are plenty of extraordinary coastal walks, sheltered bays, secluded beaches and lofty cliffs, but what makes the Italian charter experience so special is that it fuses maritime tradition with 21st century luxury to better effect than anywhere else in the world.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Italian Riviera • Start Port San Remo • End Port Porto Ercole • Distance < 255 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Tuscan Archipelago • Peak yachting season April to September • Time zone UTC + 1 hour

1 SAN REMO

5 VIAREGGIO

3 P O R TO F I N O

7 P O R TO E R C O L E

.. .

...

...

...

As a historical refuge for the pampered elite, the balmy Ligurian resort of San Remo is arguably the showiest destination on the Riviera. This Roman settlement is a hotbed of ritzy, casino-style nightlife, the enormous harbour is a renowned superyacht hub and the bars, shops and cafés ooze with appropriate cosmopolitanism.

The fabled Italian fishing village of Portofino nestles between herb-strewn hillsides in a protected reserve at the apex of a turquoise inlet. Its pristine loveliness is deeply affecting but don’t discount the nearby port towns of Santa Margherita and Rapallo. They might be less gentrified, but for the charter yacht explorer, they’re every bit as memorable.

The promenade and the high-spec marina sit right at the heart of this traditional seaside resort – and while the town’s shipbuilding roots have largely given way to tourism, the youthful energy of the upmarket beach scene is extremely attractive. Viareggio also makes an ideal stopover for a daytrip to Pisa or Florence.

The Tuscan seaside resort of Porto Ercole wraps itself around a natural deepwater harbour with an expansive and entertaining marina at its heart. Up on the hill, various 16th century fortifications keep watch over the town’s pastel-coloured streets and the seasonal effervescence in and around the long promenade is brilliantly infectious.

2 G E N OA

4 P O R TOV E N E R E

Regional capital, Genoa, is the worldly counterpoint to the compact elegance of the outlying towns and villages. In addition to a buzzing arts scene, a plentiful supply of high-class dive sites and a beautiful old harbour, it offers several classical districts, where the manic mishmash of multicoloured villas plunges steeply to the sea.

The impossibly lovely headland settlement of Portovenere is a wonderful place to sit among the waterfront villas and revel in the quiet prestige, the rustic elegance and the maritime gentility of it all. From here, Cinque Terre is also within reach – a mountainous shoreline encompassing five famously unspoiled fishing villages.

.. .

6 ELBA

...

...

The Isle of Elba feels like a Caribbean paradise in the middle of the Med. Its shores are blessed with lofty headlands, sandy bays and protected rural landscapes. Its clear, richly stocked waters are great for diving and Portoferraio, the historic centre, is at once an authentic fishing town and a sophisticated leisure destination.

2

Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport

3

4 5 1

Nice Cote d’Azur Airport

Pisa International Airport

Siena-Ampugnano Airport RANGE Approximate nautical miles

6

.. .

San Remo – Genoa 65 Nm Genoa – Portofino 17 Nm Portofino – Portovenere 32 Nm Portovenere – Viareggio 22 Nm Viareggio – Elba 65 Nm Elba – Porto Ercole 50 Nm

7

ITALIAN RIVIERA THE LIGURIAN HIGH-LIFE

WHEN TO GO APRIL – SEPTEMBER

038 • 039

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

E XO T IC ARC HIPE L AGOS

...

With a shoreline closer to Africa than Italy, plus crystal clear diving waters, a beautiful climate and an assortment of caves, corals, wrecks, bays, cliffs and inlets, Sardinia feels like a very exotic destination. But while the lovely capital, Cagliari, offers all the cool indulgence the upmarket traveller could want, a really special Sardinian yacht charter has to concentrate on the northeast of the island. Here, the irrepressible vim of party resorts like Porto Cervo is supplemented with an astonishing wealth of secluded coves, sheltered anchorages and dramatic views and seascapes. With easy access to Corsica’s southern resorts, it makes an impressively versatile yachting playground.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Sardinia • Start Port Olbia • End Port Bonifacio • Distance < 70 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Sardinia to Corsica • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 1 hour

1 OLBIA

4 CALA DI VOLPE

7 B O N I FAC I O

.. .

...

...

While Sardinia’s famous Costa Smeralda gets all the plaudits, Olbia is a very engaging way to ease yourself into a Sardinian charter. In addition to a large marina, a historic centre and a range of chic cafés, bars and boutiques, this ancient port town sits in prime position for access to Sardinia’s most rewarding stretch of coastline.

Much loved by the touring glitterati, the illustrious hotel and beach resort at Cala di Volpe sits in the very bay that featured in 007’s iconic ‘Amphibious Lotus’ scene.

From here, infamous Porto Cervo is just a short hop north and the uninhabited islands of Soffi and Mortoria provide a wonderful yachting escape.

While Sardinia is a fine charter destination, there are few port towns in the whole of Europe that can match Bonifacio. Here, on the south coast of neighbouring Corsica, just ten miles across the strait, Bonifacio’s natural harbour nestles between a pair of vast cliff faces, topped with historical streets and fortifications. For sheer drama, it’s tough to beat.

2 TAV O L A R A I S L A N D

.. .

Tavolara explodes from the sea like a mountain peak – and with nothing but a restaurant, a bar and a beach, it is almost perfectly untouched. Remarkably, this tiny patch of land has been an independent monarchy ever since a 19th century Genoese sailor proclaimed himself King, so as unusual anchorages go, it makes a wonderful detour.

5 P O R TO C E R V O

Poretta Airport Calvi-Saint-Catherine Airport

...

Created in the 1950s as a superexclusive tourist resort, the pretty pastelcoloured village of Porto Cervo enjoys a yacht-friendly position in a natural port among verdant Mediterranean hills. With a feel-good party vibe, plus outlying archipelagos and a proliferation of coves, beaches and bays, this upmarket ‘built-for-purpose’ designer destination is in the yacht charter Premier League.

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

Propriano Airport

...

Olbia – Tavolara Island 10 Nm Tavolara Island – Porto Rotondo 15 Nm Porto Rotondo – Cala di Volpe 4 Nm Cala di Volpe – Porto Cervo 8 Nm Porto Cervo – La Maddalena 11 Nm La Maddalena – Bonifacio 17 Nm

7

6

5 4

3 P O R TO R OTO N D O

.. .

At the southern end of the Costa Smeralda, in the protective Cugnana Gulf, Porto Rotondo is a stylish tourist haunt, with gorgeous bays, first-class restaurants and a fine line in exclusive pampering for visiting yachtsmen. Just a mile across the gulf, Portisco Beach offers a white, sandy incline with warm, shallow waters and excellent watersports.

6 LA MADDALENA A R C H I P E L AG O

...

3 1

2

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport

Maddalena, the largest island in the archipelago of the same name, offers a trio of useful ports, plus a fine beach at Cala Spalmatore. But with outlying islands on three sides, the opportunities for a private anchorage are remarkably rich. Head for the southern side of Budelli Island for pristine bays and pink coral sands.

2

Cagliari International Airport

SARDINIA EXOTIC ARCHIPELAGOS

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

040 • 0 41

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

IN THE SHADOW OF VESUVIUS

...

This ancient playground of Roman Emperors courses with the charm and texture of a bygone age. Once a favourite among wealthy Etruscans as an escape from the heat and bustle of Rome, gentle sea breezes continue to temper the ferocity of the sun, making the Amalfi Coast the ideal summer retreat. This place of emerald waters, steep cliffs and fragrant lemon trees has something for everyone. The cliff-top walks and crystal clear dives are extraordinary; the steep, multi-coloured maritime towns and archaeological ruins are a big draw; and the classical seafood dishes and Limoncello are a gastronomic delight.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Amalfi Coast • Start Port Atrani • End Port Sorrento • Distance < 40 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Napoli to Palermo • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 1 hour

Naples International Airport

6

2

4

1

Aeroporto di Salerno Costa D’Amalfi

3

5

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Atrani – Amalfi: 1 Nm Amalfi – Praiano: 4 Nm Praiano – Positano: 5 Nm Positano – Isle of Capri: 16 Nm Isle of Capri – Sorrento: 9 Nm

1 AT R A N I

3 PRAIANO

5 ISLE OF CAPRI

.. .

...

...

With ranks of pastel houses propped up between the steep cliffs and the dozing harbour, this fine medieval town is a very attractive sanctuary from the eager crowds of nearby Amalfi. You can spend the afternoon on the sandy beach (a rarity in these parts) or step back in time among narrow cobbled streets, ancient vaults and sun-drenched piazzas.

As well as being an established favourite with Italian aristocrats, Praiano is the sunniest place on the Amalfi coast, with long balmy evenings and a more sedentary vibe than its neighbours. There are several secluded pebble beaches that can only be approached by boat, plus a remarkable inlet known as the Furore Fjord, just a short hop east. For those in search of low-key loveliness, it’s a major highlight.

Three miles west of the mainland, the Isle of Capri has been a VIP holiday retreat since the time of the ancient Greeks.

The Blue Grotto, a limestone lagoon with water that glows in contrasting shades, is a highlight on a fissured coastline tailor-made for charter exploration; and when you step ashore, the chic bars and boutique shops are well balanced by a loveliness unspoiled by time.

2 AMALFI

.. .

4 P O S I TA N O

Once the hub of a powerful maritime republic, Amalfi’s modern persona is more about panache than politics. Famed as the haunt of Hollywood actors who made a beeline for its winding medieval streets and slick Italian glamour, it remains a compact but dramatically staged archetype for this coastline’s colourful clash of sea, cliff and culture.

Positano, a dramatic cliff-top settlement and one of the most photogenic destinations in the Mediterranean, feels distinctly well heeled. The shops, the restaurants, the elegant, flower-scented streets and the dreamy Italianate sophistication of the buildings – it all combines to create a fiercely memorable stopover.

...

6 S O R R E N TO

...

Ever since its inclusion in the ‘Grand Tours’ of the early 18th century, Sorrento has been an unashamed tourist hotspot, but its beauty is no less striking for that. Here, at the brightly coloured conjunction of sea and mountain, valley and citrus grove, famous poets like Byron and Keats have come to revel in the narrow alleyways, sweeping views and café-lined squares.

AMALFI COAST IN THE SHADOW OF VESUVIUS

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

042 • 043

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

IN THE FOOTSTEPS O F O DYS S E U S

...

Positioned on the apex of trade routes with ancient Greece, Sicily was a natural hub for Greek expansion in the 8th century BC. Today, it remains a favourite yacht charter destination for travellers wishing to mix history, culture and art with a pleasant climate and beautiful beaches. To the north of Sicily lies the volcanic archipelago of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a fascinating region for active travel. It’s a place where harsh volcanic landscapes dotted with the ghostly remnants of ancient foundations contrast beautifully with whitewashed villages that gaze out over the sea on the fringes of each rocky outcrop.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Sicily & the Aeolian Islands• Start Port Syracuse • End Port Lipari • Distance < 200 Nm • Destinations 8 Alternative route South Sicilia via Agrigento • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 1 hour 1 SY R AC U S E

7 V U LC A N O

...

3 TAO R M I N A

...

5 ST R O M B O L I

...

...

Sicily’s capital is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek cities in the world. But while the archaeological gems of the northwest quarter enjoy particular renown, the Old City (Ortigia), a compact island and the original heart of the settlement, is the primary draw. Expect ancient palazzos rich in sculpture, alongside shops and nightlife that (despite its time-capsule loveliness) are among the most varied and vibrant you will find.

The glorious medieval town of Taormina, built into the side of a mountain by Greek colonists, is full of historical sites. The Teatro Greco is not to be missed; and parts of the ‘Gymnasium’, where athletes trained for the ancient Olympics, also survive. However, modern Taormina is also a lavish resort town, so for a shopping expedition to remember, head for Corso Umberto.

Stromboli, the ‘Lighthouse of the Mediterranean’, is actually an active volcano with a scattering of curious black sand beaches to the northeast. Habitation is minimal and the island’s famed beauty is of a harsh, elemental kind. Adventurous visitors can get a closer look at the daily eruptions on a guided hike, but a night approach by yacht gives an even better view of the flashes emanating from the crater.

With sulphurous emissions filling the harbour and hissing from the pavements, you can smell Vulcano long before you arrive. However, if you can tolerate the scent, it makes a memorable retreat.

You can visit its smoking crater, kayak its wild shoreline and bathe in its volcanic muds, before washing yourself clean in the sea, which fizzes with hot gases from the seabed.

4 M E SS I N A

2 G I A R D I N I - N A XO S

6 PA N A R E A

...

...

Giardini-Naxos enjoys a long crescentshaped beach of the finest white sand with memorable views out to sea. You can anchor off the bay and take the tender ashore for traditional pizzerias and smart waterfront cocktail bars along the promenade. Otherwise, why not head for the Old Town’s designer boutiques or the excellent seafood restaurants in the harbour itself.

...

Known as the ‘Doorway to Sicily’ (and the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Much Ado About Nothing’), Messina’s links to the arts has cemented its place as a must-visit destination. Originally named ‘Zancle’ due to the scythe-like shape of the harbour, the town’s colourful history is manifested in a busy architectural clash of churches, forts and ancient foundations that fan out from the Piazza del Duomo.

In the absence of cars, the best way to get around Panarea is by means of golfcart taxis. There are plenty of secluded bays, particularly in the southeast, where you can anchor up and head ashore for a hike to the ruins; and there are plenty of private beaches with stunning volcanic views. Otherwise, San Pietro, where luxury yachts create a vibrant summer vibe, is definitely the place to be.

8 L I PA R I Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, was formed by an ancient volcano, whose last eruption destroyed the town 1,400 years ago. Today, a picturesque harbour greets those arriving by sea and a pleasant afternoon can be spent wandering the cobbled alleyways of the elegant Old Town. Greek and Roman tombs can be seen in the park and some magnificent Aeolian artefacts can be witnessed in the Archaeological Museum.

5 6 8

Aeroporto di Palermo Falcone e Borsellino

7

4

3 2

Catania Fontanarossa Airport

1

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

...

Syracuse – Giardini-Naxos 50 Nm Giardini-Naxos – Taormina 2 Nm Taormina – Messina 27 Nm Messina – Stromboli 50 Nm Stromboli – Panarea 13 Nm Panarea – Vulcano 15 Nm Vulcano – Lipari 4 Nm

S I C I LY & T H E A E O L I A N I S L A N D S IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ODYSSEUS

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

044 • 045

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE WEST MEDITERRANEAN

...

S PE C TAC LE + SECLUSION

...

There are four primary islands in the Balearics chain – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – and with more than 300 days of sun each year, they enjoy a superb yachting climate. The thriving tourist industry often sees Mallorca and Ibiza dismissed as mere bastions of youthful excess, but with elegance and rusticity in equal measure, there is much more to these shores than that. Head for Menorca in the east or Formentera in the far west and the secluded coves, ancient monuments and protected marine parks conjure up an altogether gentler, more relaxed form of Balearic charter experience.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Balearic Islands • Start Port Mahon • End Port Ibiza Town • Distance < 270 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Barcelona or Valencia • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 1 hour 1 MAHON

...

3 P O R T D ’A LC U D I A

...

5 PA L M A D E M A L LO R C A

7 I B I Z A TOW N

Perched on a ridge above a saltwater inlet, Mahon is a very charming, small-scale and intimate city, with indisputably elegant Georgian-style architecture and a relaxed alfresco food culture that quickly salves the mind.

Though it enjoys a pleasant seasonal buzz, it’s rarely overcrowded outside of the riotous Nuestra Señora de Gràcia Festival in September.

Alcudia, northern Mallorca’s biggest holiday resort, offers plenty of white sandy bays with easy gradients and warm shallow waters. Meanwhile, in the old town, heaped up within the vast peripheral ramparts, a blend of boutique shops, lively markets and quality restaurants adds some mature continental chic to the region’s familyfriendly offering.

The elegant alfresco entertainment and suave cosmopolitanism of Palma de Mallorca make it a huge charter favourite. The glittering marina is full of outrageously high-end yachts and the town itself is a thriving year-round bastion of artistic and cultural vivacity, with buzzing bars and cafés, beautiful beaches and complex networks of atmospheric backstreets to explore.

Ibiza Town might be famous for Café del Mar, Pacha and the Sunset Strip, but this 24-hour party destination is as much about superyachts as nightclubs. Down at the marina, there is upmarket food and artisan shopping – and with 2,700 years of history, the crass neon glitz is well matched by high-end sophistication and cultural authenticity.

2 C I U TA D E L L A D E M E N O R C A

4 P U E R TO D E S Ó L L E R

...

6 L A S AV I N A , F O R M E N T E R A

...

With its commercial fishing fleet and its yacht charter luxury, its ancient charm and its modern energy, the west coast town of Ciutadella is every bit the equal of Menorca’s capital city.

The beaches are beautiful, the port is lined with colourful restaurants and the romantic square at Placa d’es Born is a fine base for old town exploration.

Having been the subject of substantial investment over the past decade, Puerto de Sóller’s harbour has become one of the island’s most lavish charter hubs. It sits in the arc of a generous bay, creating a sheltered playground for a picturesque anchorage and a half-mile beach that is tailor-made for watersports.

Formentera, a rocky little island south of Ibiza, is renowned as a fine wildlife watching destination and a tranquil refuge for the cruising yachtsman. The two main sections of the island are joined in the middle by a three-mile expanse of unspoiled beach and the island’s exposed position makes it a great spot for windsurfing and sailing.

...

...

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

2 4

5

Ibiza Airport

7 6

3

Palma de Mallorca Airport

...

Menorca Airport

1

...

Mahon – Ciutadella 43 Nm Ciutadella – Alcudia 35 Nm Alcudia – Puerto de Sóller 42 Nm Puerto de Sóller – Palma 50 Nm Palma – La Savina 80 Nm La Savina – Ibiza Town 12 N

BALEARICS SPECTACLE + SECLUSION

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

046 • 047

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

WHEN TO GO APRIL – OCTOBER

...

EAST MEDITERRANEAN ...

For those left cold by tourist artifice, the modest cultural authenticity of the Eastern Mediterranean feels very special. Croatia’s island-strewn Adriatic shore is tailor-made for sheltered cruising; in Greece, the ancient maritime folklore of the various archipelagos is a classicist’s dream; in the sultry, coral-rich shallows of the Red Sea, diving takes centre stage; and on Turkey’s Aegean coast, the fusion of east and west creates a thrilling cultural dynamic.

Ionian Islands • The Cyclades • Turkish Riviera • Croatia • Montenegro • The Red Sea

048

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

• 049

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

IONIAN O DYS S E Y

...

With 9,000 miles of coastline and 2,000 islands, the charter options in Greece are extraordinary. Places like Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes resonate with historical significance and the variety in location, scale and character of the archipelagos creates a bewildering choice. Do you opt for the Saronic Islands? The Cyclades and Dodecanese in the Aegean Sea? Or the Ionian chain off the mainland’s west coast? From uninhabited hideaways to bustling resorts and from beaches and seascapes to history and hedonism, a Greek yacht charter has the capacity to satisfy your wanderlust like few other destinations.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Greece • Start Port Corfu • End Port Zakynthos • Distance < 170 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Mykonos to Santorini • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 C O R F U TOW N

4 I T H AC A

...

...

The dramatically mountainous island of Corfu is a renowned walking destination, a hub for beachgoers and a treasure trove of archaeological remains. Corfu Town provides a pleasant blend of old and new, with a vast marina and highclass shops alongside a pair of fortresses and a resident population impressively unmoved by modernity.

Just between Kefalonia and the mainland lies Ithaca – an unspoiled yachting haven with good hiking, authentic tavernas, a fine beach at Gedaki and plenty of opportunity for diving and sea kayaking.

The rocky landscapes periodically give way to verdant olive groves and Ageri in Frikes is a Greek restaurant at the very top of its game.

2 PA X I

5 K E FA LO N I A

...

...

The dramatic caves, limestone cliffs and glorious beaches of the Paxi archipelago make them some of the finest cruising grounds in Greece. Paxos, the main island, offers lots of sheltered inlets so you can explore the rock formations or anchor up for some snorkelling; and Antipaxos, the second largest island, is a hotspot for local wines.

From Myrtos Beach and the steep sea cliffs of the northwest to the Melissani Cave in the east, Kefalonia is radically beautiful. Argostoli, the main port, was rebuilt in the 50s after an earthquake but the island retains plenty of historical sites and the variety and calibre of bays means huge flexibility for the visiting yachtsman.

3 L E F K AS

6 Z A KY N T H O S

.. .

...

Butted up close to Greece’s western shore with excellent shelter from the swells of the Ionian Sea, Lefkas Town is a natural centre for marine tourism and the shops, bars and restaurants reflect that.

The open sea coast offers fine beaches and Nydri and Vassiliki are ideal for watersports. Meganisi, with its quaint villages and sheltered anchorages, makes an attractive stop en-route to Ithaca.

The Ionian resort of Zakynthos is a classic Greek cocktail of party venue, coastal paradise and authentic island lifestyle.

The liveliest nightlife is to be found at Laganas; for seclusion, the west coast is ideal; and for somewhere in between, Alykanas is a great place to perch in a comfy taverna, munching on souvlaki and sipping cold beer.

1

LGKR Corfu Airport

2

Aktion National Airport 3

4

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

...

Corfu – Paxi 33 Nm Paxi – Lefkas 35 Nm Lefkas – Ithaca 35 Nm Ithaca – Kefalonia 20 Nm Kefalonia – Zakynthos 33 Nm

5

Kefalonia International Airport

Zakynthos International Airport 6

THE IONIAN ISLANDS IONIAN ODYSSEY

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

050 • 0 51

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

AEGEAN ISLAND ADVE N TURE

...

In the southern reaches of the Aegean Sea, between the Greek mainland, the Turkish Riviera and the northern shores of Crete, the Cyclades island group is arguably Greece’s most alluring destination. It’s a place where chalky, whitewashed walls, colourful rooftops, olive groves, vineyards and classical ruins perch above picturesque old harbours and deserted coves. It’s a place of shipwrecks, sunsets and sandy beaches; of honeymooners and romantic escapes. From the slow, traditional rurality of Syros to the ‘destination glamour’ of modish Santorini, the varied delights of this close-packed archipelago are easily accessible on a week’s charter from Athens.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Greece • Start Port Athens • End Port Santorini • Distance < 195 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Naxos and Delos • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 AT H E N S

4 PA R O S

.. .

...

With an enviable position just five miles from the city centre, Athens Marina puts you on the cusp of elegant streets, fast-paced urban entertainments and extraordinary archaeological sites. The Acropolis and Parthenon are of course major highlights, but the genteel Plaka quarter is also a memorable place for its authentic Greek cuisine.

While it doesn’t enjoy the exalted profile of its noisy neighbours, Paros is a major highlight for cruising yachtsmen. The relative absence of tourists makes the elegant capital much easier to enjoy and the proximity of smaller Antiparos to the southwest offers plenty of opportunity for a sheltered inlet and a private swim at anchor.

2 SY R O S

5 FOLEGANDROS

.. .

...

The island of Syros is not a carefully preserved tourist utopia, but an authentic Greek hub, with the bustling old Cycladic port town of Ermoupoli at its heart. While the bulk of the island is rural, Ermoupoli is an apex for ferry travel in the north, a fine gastronomic destination and a happily uncontrived four-season resort.

The modest size and sparse population of Folegandros gives it a remote, natural beauty as yet unaffected by tourism.

The port town of Karavostasi is a pleasant low-key experience and in accordance with its reputation as the ’Island of Peace’, the leafy town of Chora is closed to motorised traffic. This is as pristine as an Aegean hideaway gets.

3 M Y KO N O S

.. .

Mykonos is well established as a party destination, but it’s not just about all-night clubbers. It’s also a magnet for cruise ship visitors, preening fashionistas and touring celebrities. In addition to its cosmopolitan profile, Mykonos boasts some fine beaches, many with useful anchorages, plus a renowned restaurant scene and some crowd-pleasing Cycladic architecture.

1

Mykonos Airport

3

2

Naxos Airport 4

6 S A N TO R I N I

...

Romantic Santorini is the most classically beautiful island in the entire archipelago.

Blessed with dramatic clifftop towns such as Fira and Oia, plus rich vineyards and famous sunsets, its inverted C-shape offers plenty of shelter from the swells so you can anchor up in peace – and there are several smaller volcanic islands within easy reach.

Athens International Airport

5

6

Santorini Airport

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

...

Athens – Syros 76 Nm Syros – Mykonos 18 Nm Mykonos – Paros 25 Nm Paros – Folegandros 38 Nm Folegandros – Santorini 38 Nm

THE CYCLADES AEGEAN ISLAND ADVENTURE

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

052 • 053

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

COASTLINE OF CONTRASTS

...

Set against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains, on the boundary between the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, Turkey’s ‘Turquoise Coast’ is a vibrant clash of contradictions. On the one hand, it offers secluded coves, plunging landscapes and long, golden beaches. On the other, it blends ancient cities and oriental bazaars with the effortless opulence of first-rate eateries and glittering superyacht harbours. Here, on the overlap between east and west, Turkey’s kaleidoscopic Riviera also enjoys one of the world’s most charter-friendly climates, with more than 300 days of sun each year and some of the warmest waters in the Mediterranean.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Southwest Turkey • Start Port Bodrum • End Port Göcek • Distance < 155 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Göcek to Antalya • Peak yachting season July to August • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 BODRUM

2 KNIDOS

4 MARMARIS

6 GÖCEK

.. .

...

...

...

The Bodrum Peninsula is full of ancient ruins, entertaining bars and memorable beach resorts, but the city of Bodrum on the south side is the destination of choice.

Set around a complex, meandering waterfront with a magical harbour at its heart, this classical Aegean hub is guarded

by St Peter’s Castle, a medieval fortress perched high above the water.

Knidos is a 2,500-year old Dorian port city set against a steep, lighthousetopped outcrop. The remains of this once prosperous settlement are by no means pristine but the broad scatterings of pathways, buildings and temples are impressively atmospheric. Anchoring in the bay and taking the tender ashore on an exploratory voyage is a memorable trip.

Entertaining Marmaris Harbour enjoys a dreamy backdrop, with turquoise seas in the foreground and mountainous hillsides to the rear. There’s an attractive (if compact) old quarter, plus a 16th century hilltop castle gazing down over the scene.

Come here for the pleasant bay, the nightlife and the accessible diving and leave when antiquity beckons.

Göcek is a key charter hub on the Turkish Riviera, with a fine natural position and a first-class marina. The town offers excellent access to the coves and islands of this protected yachting region and there are also useful stopping points at Skopea Marina and at the Club Marina in beautiful Bungus Cove.

3 D ATÇ A

5 E K I N C I K / D A LYA N

Datça is the primary harbour town on the peninsula of the same name and it makes a useful base for land access to Knidos.

It has three beaches, one to the east, one by the main street and one (Taslık Plajı) at the end of the harbour with a pool fed by hot springs. The Datça Vineyard is well worth a visit.

The deeply inset, beach-lined bay at Ekincik makes a fine anchorage, with great shelter between long verdant slopes.

The scenic walks from Ekincik east towards the pretty riverside town of Dalyan are among the best in Turkey and the ancient ‘Kings’ Tombs of Kaunos’ (elaborate Lycian tombs carved into the cliff face) are not to be missed.

...

...

Milas-Bodrum Airport

1

4 5 2

6

3

Rhodes International Airport RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Bodrum – Knidos 23 Nm Knidos – Datça 24 Nm Datça – Marmaris 50 Nm Marmaris – Ekincik 20 Nm Ekincik – Göcek 37 Nm

Dalaman Airport

TURKISH RIVIERA COASTLINE OF CONTRASTS

WHEN TO GO JULY – AUGUST

054 • 055

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

CHARTER MASTERCL ASS

...

Croatia’s Adriatic coastline looks like it might have been engineered specifically with yacht charter in mind. From Italy to Montenegro, the west-facing shore runs south in stratified ranks of coastal landmass, generating not just extra shelter for charter yachts but also more interesting seascapes, more secluded cruising regions and a virtually inexhaustible supply of lovely anchorages. With more than 1,200 islands, allied to one of Europe’s sunniest climates and several of the world’s most glorious UNESCO-protected cities, this hallowed land of olive groves and vineyards offers enormous potential for a bespoke yacht charter itinerary.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Croatia • Start Port Split • End Port Dubrovnik • Distance < 155 Nm • Destinations 6 Alternative route Rjeka to Zadar • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 SPLIT

.. .

2 H VA R

...

4 KO R C U L A TOW N

...

...

Propped up against a mountainous backdrop, the ancient architecture of this exuberant city is thrilling. Though often used as an access point to the exotic charms of Croatia’s Adriatic archipelagos, it is a special destination in its own right, with plenty of bars, shops and restaurants and one of the most engaging waterfronts in Europe.

The buzzing tourist hub of Hvar enjoys a fine position for access to the outlying islets, sandy bays and sheltered anchorages – and the port of Hvar itself is a superb example of antiquity turned chic.

It has the suave, upmarket character of the Italian Riviera, complete with boutique shops and restaurants and a gregarious feel-good nightlife.

Traditional Croatian island, Korcula, is wonderfully calming. Like so many parts of this region, the land is awash with vineyards and olive groves and the main port city is so idyllic, it almost defies credibility. With its blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, swaddled in vast anti-piracy fortifications, this imposing coastal citadel is a treat.

Dubrovnik is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Inside its vast city walls, thousands of years of architectural heritage and cultural colour create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Whether you drink local wine at a harbourside eatery or feast among the ramparts at a world-class restaurant, simply being here is a pleasure you won’t forget.

3 BISEVO

5 MLJET

The tiny Dalmatian island of Bisevo offers some of the Mediterranean’s best fishing and in Porat Beach, one of its finest stretches of sand. However, the greatest attraction is Blue Grotto – a sea cave among the steep limestone cliffs of the eastern shore that glows an eerie blue as the sun rebounds off the white seabed.

Mljet is the island that is said to have captivated Odysseus for seven years – and at the national park in the west, that’s not hard to believe. With lots of fine anchorages, not least at Pomena and Polace, the island’s saltwater lakes are easily accessible by tender. Further east, Mljet’s famous shipwreck dive sites are equally compelling.

...

6 D U B R OV N I K

...

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Split – Hvar 24 Nm Hvar – Bisevo 24 Nm Bisevo – Korcula 32 Nm Korcula – Mljet 40 Nm Mljet – Dubrovnik 35 Nm

Split Airport

1

Airport Brac 2 3 4

5 6

Dubrovnik Airport

Tivat Airport

CROATIA CHARTER MASTERCLASS

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

056 • 057

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

DESTINATIONS EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

ADRIAT IC JEWEL

...

On the Adriatic Sea, just across the border from Croatia’s fabled maritime attractions, lies a 160-mile coastline as lovely as any in Europe. Fast achieving renown among charter fans, shoreside entertainments centre around pristine medieval towns and unspoiled coastal forest walks, while the country’s spectacular seascapes offer an enviable wealth of secluded coves, white sandy beaches and uninhabited islands. With a tangible sense of history dating back to the golden ages of the Greek, Roman and Byzantine empires, allied to its relative infancy as a tourist destination, modern Montenegro offers a charter experience of singular character.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Montenegro • Start Port Tivat • End Port Tivat • Distance < 150 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Montenegro to Venice • Peak yachting season May to October • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 T I VAT

.. .

3 KOTO R

...

5 B U D VA

...

...

Though Tivat itself might struggle to compete with some of Montenegro’s more charismatic old towns, the beautifully arranged harbour at Porto Montenegro is the perfect spot to begin and end your charter. With its position in the deep, sheltered Bay of Kotor, its chic waterfront boutiques, its elegant gastronomic scene and its impressive calendar of high-end events, it’s a lifestyle hotspot of international calibre.

Just past the islets of Perast, at the furthest reaches of the bay, lies the superb UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor.

With some parts of the city dating back to the 12th century, nearly three miles of fortified walls and a spectacular nautical heritage, Kotor’s medieval maze of cobbled streets, squares and churches feels every bit as extraordinary as its mountainous waterfront setting.

Budva is an established Adriatic destination with plenty of appeal. You can embrace the hedonism of Ploce Beach, bask in the private island luxury of Sveti Stefan, walk the town walls or inspect the museum’s Roman artefacts. But for many, the greatest pleasure is to be had simply hiding away in one of the Old Town’s intimate local eateries with authentic food and a famously warm welcome.

The busy, modern port town of Bar is home to one of the world’s largest fortified archaeological sites, some of the world’s most ancient olive groves and a scattering of first-class beaches. The Old Town is also very well preserved and, while Bar itself is not yet a major tourist hub, it makes an engaging stop-off en route to the superb beaches of Ulcinj.

4 ROSE

6 S V E T I ST E FA N

2 P E R AST

.. .

Though it comprises only a few interwoven waterfront streets, the tiny UNESCO World Heritage Site of Perast is a major charter highlight. With 16 grand palaces and 19 churches, its pristine Venetian loveliness is not to be missed. Although you can now hire bicycles and Segways, most visitors opt for a simple alfresco meal or a short trip to the artificial island known as ‘Our Lady of the Rocks’.

7 BAR

...

...

Perched dramatically at the tip of Lustica Peninsula, the rustic fishing village vibe of Rose makes it a popular holiday spot for prominent Montenegrins. While Forte Rose, an ancient Austro-Hungarian citadel, is a good spot for a drink, there’s little to beat a leisurely lunch of grilled octopus, washed down with a bottle of local Krstac at one of Rose’s seaside cafés.

Though Sveti Stefan is also the name of the shoreside town, it most commonly refers to the exclusive luxury island resort to which it is linked by means of a narrow causeway. With its tightly packed mishmash of 15th-century villas overlooking some of this coastline’s finest beaches, it’s not hard to see why this place is one of the most photographed sites in the whole of Monenegro.

Dubrovnik Airport 2 4

1

3

Tivat Airport 5 6

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Tivat – Perast 6 Nm Perast – Kotor 5 Nm Kotor – Rose 14 Nm Rose – Budva 20 Nm Budva – Sveti Stefan 4 Nm Sveti Stefan – Bar 16 Nm Bar – Tivat 46 Nm

7

MONTENEGRO ADRIATIC JEWEL

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

058 • 059

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE EAST MEDITERRANEAN

...

D I V E R’S DREAM

...

While Alexandria and Port Said on Egypt’s Mediterranean shore attract plenty of international tourism, the Red Sea is a prime region for an exotic yacht charter. Stretching between the Suez Canal and the Gulf of Aden with Africa on one shore and Asia on the other, the Red Sea is a glittering expanse of turquoise waters, replete with internationally acclaimed dive sites. It’s a place of vast reefs, pristine beaches and sun-baked desert; of five-star charter resorts that give way to unspoiled waterfront settlements and ancient desert shores. The Sinai Peninsula in the far north is the ideal starting point for a unique voyage of discovery.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Egypt • Start Port Hurghada • End Port Sharm-El-Sheikh • Distance < 80 Nm • Destinations 5 Alternative route Dahab • Peak yachting season All-year round • Time zone UTC + 2 hours

1 HURGHADA

4 NABQ

The yachting hub of Hurghada on Egypt’s mainland shore enjoys a cosmopolitan nightlife and a reliable tourist throng. Its hedonism is well balanced by the gruff tranquility of the old town and various land-based pursuits like camel riding and desert treks. The prettier town of ElGouna, a short hop north, also warrants a closer look.

Just past Sharm-El-Sheikh, on the eastern shore of the Sinai Peninsula, lies Nabq – an unspoiled Red Sea destination, with spectacular diving and useful shelter on the south side of the outlying islands. If you have the time, Dahab, further north, is a more modern, leisure-ready destination for roaming Aqaba Gulf tourists.

.. .

2 GIFTUN ISLANDS

.. .

...

Sharm-El-Sheikh International Airport 3

...

Sharm-El-Sheikh is the core base for most Red Sea exploration. It provides plenty of first-class beaches, easy-access to various dive sites and a broad choice of luxury waterfront resorts. The main strip at Naama Bay is the partygoer’s heartland, but there are also plenty of waterfront eateries and some atmospheric markets in the old town.

3 R AS M O H A M M E D M A R I N E PA R K

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

If you don’t object to the dive tourists who come for the clear, warm waters, sub-surface caves and astonishing corals, the Ras Mohammed Marine Park is a magnificent place to witness the Red Sea’s sparkling wildlife. If diving isn’t your thing, it’s just as good for an informal snorkel or a beach jaunt in the tender.

5

5 SHARM-EL-SHEIKH

The Red Sea is not short of uninhabited islands, but the Giftun Chain is particularly noted for its exemplary waters. There are plenty of places to find a good anchorage in the lee of the prevailing northerlies and although the islands are largely sunbaked desert, the subsurface diversity more than makes up for that.

.. .

4

...

Hurghada – Giftun: 20 Nm Giftun – Ras Mohammed: 25 Nm Ras Mohammed – Nabq: 22 Nm Nabq – Sharm-El-Sheikh: 12 Nm

1

2

Hurghada International Airport

THE RED SEA THE DIVER'S DREAM

WHEN TO GO MAY – OCTOBER

060 • 0 61

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE NORTHERN EUROPE

WHEN TO GO JUNE – AUGUST

...

NORTHERN EUROPE ...

With its ancient labyrinth of waterways, trade routes, imperial cities and virgin landscapes, Northern Europe is a magical yacht charter zone. From the wild glacial majesty of Norway’s west coast to the infectious feel-good vibe of Denmark, the stylish modernity of Sweden and the cultural treasures of Russia’s Baltic coast, it has the variety to satisfy even the most ambitious charter yacht explorer.

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

062

Norway • Denmark • Sweden • Russia

• 063

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE NORTHERN EUROPE

...

BALT IC BONANZA

...

In West Norway, where the fjords come into dramatic union with the open sea, Bergen grants easy access to thousand-metre cliffs, majestic waterfalls and blissful anchorages. For a more sophisticated slice of urban finesse, medieval Copenhagen, on the islands of Zealand and Amager, is arguably the most thrilling yacht charter base in Scandinavia. If true nautical flavour is what you want, Swedenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital is well placed, with the Baltic on one side and island-rich Lake Malaren on the other. And for an unmatched cocktail of opulence, confidence and cultural vitality try St Petersburg, a truly iconic charter destination.

N O RT H E R N E U RO P E S N A P S H O T

...

With wrecks, reefs and sheltered waters, Norwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diving is world famous.

Copenhagen is a world hub for Michelin-starred restaurants.

Sweden comprises more than 24,000 islands and 95,000 lakes.

St Petersburg offers 64 rivers, 48 canals and 92 miles of coastline.

2 C H O O S E D E N M A R K FO R . . .

1 C H O O S E N O RWAY FO R . . .

3 C H O O S E SW E D E N FO R . . .

4 C H O O S E R U SS I A FO R . . .

Opulent palaces Iconic museums Boutique shops Imperial heritage

. ..

...

...

Steep mountains Colourful towns Historic harbours Majestic fjords

Seafaring cities Fine food Striking modernity Elegant heritage

Island culture Healthy living Upmarket style Scenic splendour

...

2

Stockholm Arlanda Airport Bergan Airport 1

Pulkovo Airport

3

Oslo Airport

4

2

Copenhagen Airport

NORTHERN EUROPE BALTIC BONANZA

WHEN TO GO JUNE –AUGUST

064 • 065

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE INDIAN OCEAN

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

OCTOBER

...

INDIAN OCEAN ...

An Indian Ocean charter is about cutting yourself off from the rest of the world among remote island resorts, virgin palm forests, secluded coves and pearlescent coral atolls. The tiny tropical landscapes of the Seychelles and the Maldives feel almost overwhelmed by the ocean – and yet their blissful seclusion is splendidly tempered by unimpeachable opulence and some of the rarest marine life on the planet.

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

066

The Maldives • The Seychelles

• 067

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

DESTINATIONS INDIAN OCEAN

INDIAN OCEAN

...

THE CAPTAIN’S PERSPECTIVE ...

Imperial talks to Andrew Carter, Captain of M/Y LILI, about his charter experiences among the Indian Ocean’s most celebrated destinations ...

...

IY: How did you become the Skipper of a yacht like LILI? AC: I was born and bred on the eastern and southern shores of Australia and I was a young surf lifesaver by the age of about seven, so I’ve always been at home on the water. I did a little bit of dinghy sailing when I was younger too and my Step Father was a competition dinghy sailor back in the day, so the sea has always been in my blood and when I joined the superyacht industry 15 years ago, it felt like a very natural progression.

Tell us about your recent Indian Ocean charter?

Well just to get down there was quite a trek. It took us almost four weeks to make our way from the Mediterranean, through the Suez Canal, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. But when we arrived in the Seychelles, we spent a good chunk of that time about 100 miles west of Mahe in an area called Les Amirantes. It’s a very thin chain of islands that runs north and south, extremely exposed to the weather, extremely isolated. I think the sorts of people who are interested in chartering in areas like that really enjoy that feeling of isolation; of being off the beaten track and truly in the middle of nowhere. And actually, I think that’s what every yacht crew aspires to when they get into yachting. They dream about visiting these picture postcard places and that’s exactly what we did. It was beyond stunning.

SEYCHELLES PARADISE REDISCOVERED

068

...

LILI AMELS 55.00m

Q&A LILI CAPTAIN

â&#x20AC;¢ 069

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

DESTINATIONS INDIAN OCEAN

...

...

What are the challenges of operating in so remote a region?

First and foremost, it’s the weather. For example, the first stop on our trip was at a place called the Africa Banks, which was nothing more than a couple of sandbars that were only visible at low tide and a rocky outcrop no longer than a hundred metres long with a sandy beach and a shipwreck.

As you can imagine, even on the calmest days, you still have that rolling undercurrent. It’s not an above-ground wave; it’s just a groundswell that kind of envelops the boat and lulls you into this wonderful sleepy kind of movement - and if that’s not to the guests’ tastes, it’s just a case of tucking the boat into the lee side of the island a little bit more and trying to make them more comfortable. And of course the other big logistical issue when you’re so far away from everywhere else is provisioning. So the Seychelles certainly presents some challenges but there are always ways around them.

Having said that, the northwest coast of Thailand is also really special.

There’s an island group called the Similan Islands and one place in particular called Koh Tachai, which is truly amazing. Also further up from there, close to the Burmese border, you have a small island chain called the Surin Islands. Surin Tai in particular is a breathtaking spot, with a dive up there called Richelieu Rock, which is basically a sea mount that rises from thousands of metres down to just below the surface. It has the most amazing sea life I’ve ever seen – and our guests, who were extremely experienced divers, felt exactly the same. And then of course, you’ve got the Maldives, with so many astonishing little islands like Biyadhoo, Meeru and Kandholu, each of which offers something completely different. It’s just about immersing yourself in that classic Indian Ocean environment that most people dream about; really mind-blowing places you’ll never forget – and this region makes that amazingly easy.

What are the food highlights?

Well for us, without doubt, it was all about the amazing local fish – and the wonderfully different varieties of food the chef was able to prepare with it. We had mahi, tuna, grouper, sea bass - just so many types of fish, it was quite incredible. And the water is amazingly clear as well. In this part of the world there’s not a lot of water pollution going on, so it was really something to behold. In fact in the Africa Banks, there’s a shipwreck about 20 metres below the surface and at low tide, looking from above with the drone, you could actually see this thing as though it wasn’t even covered in water. It was the most incredible sight.

Which toys are particularly useful for this part of the world?

Apart from the usual stuff like the tenders, the small support vessels and the jetskis, we have three Seabobs on board, which are great for shallow waters. It allows our guests to access all those little nooks and crannies that might be off limits if you were swimming with fins. We also have a drone on board, which enables us to put together films and to capture still moments that we offer to guests at the end of the trip. And of course, we have SCUBA equipment, with dive compressors on board, plus two Master SCUBA Diving Trainers. These are the guys who actually train the trainers, so they’re at the very top level. In these sorts of areas, the Seychelles, the Maldives, Thailand, so much of the guests’ enjoyment comes from being on and beneath the water so to have two of these guys on board is a marvellous thing.

Is the Indian Ocean more about nature than shoreside fun?

Well the Maldives are geared around high-end tourism, with resorts built on what are sometimes manmade islands, so shoreside entertainments are well catered for there - but the further south you go from Mahe, the more remote and otherworldly it becomes. As for the Seychelles, nature is a central part of the experience, but you do have some very high-end hotel chains on the west and northwest coasts, where you can get yourself into a Campari Orange or a Café del Mar Sundowner kind of feel. In Thailand you can certainly do that around the Phuket area, but then you’re really getting a bit more engrossed in the mass tourism side of things, which for most people is not what the Indian Ocean is about.

What kinds of activity do you tend to organise here?

In the Seychelles, the Maldives and Thailand we have a beach barbecue set-up, with special facilities that we put onshore for the guests – chairs, tables, oil lanterns. And we cater for them on the beach with LILI just offshore in the background, so that’s always a nice buzz for them. It feels very bespoke and special – and I must admit it’s really an ideal part of the world to be doing that. It’s not something, for instance, you could do in the Mediterranean but it’s definitely something the guests love.

Does this region enable you to vary the itinerary?

Absolutely. It’s so off the beaten track that the possibilities almost make the decisions more difficult - but it’s a much higher value experience than the charter guest might get in other parts of the world. You can find an What were your most memorable destinations? anchorage or a beach with literally no one else there – and that’s the whole For me, the Amirantes Group is just unreal. The Africa Banks, Desroches Island, Remire Island – and moving back towards the Seychelles mainland, idea in this part of the world. Our guests aren’t necessarily interested in the you have places called Denis Island and Bird Island. In terms of the location milk runs of St Tropez or Monaco. They want the privacy, they want the beach to themselves and that’s what we’re able to offer. Of course, you have and the topography; in terms of the views and the feeling that you get to understand that you’re not going to get the shoreside services that you get being in places like this, it’s something I would find pretty hard to replicate in the south of France, but if you’re okay with that and you understand that anywhere else in the world. the yacht can look after you in remote places for long periods of time, then, apart from a few areas of the Pacific Ocean, like French Polynesia, there are not too many places in the world that can match it.

SEYCHELLES PARADISE REDISCOVERED

Q&A LILI CAPTAIN

070 â&#x20AC;¢ 0 71

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE INDIAN OCEAN

...

TROPICAL OCEAN ADVE N TURE S

...

Nowhere is more keenly tied to the sea than the Maldives. With 1,200 islands over 35,000 square miles of Indian Ocean, this tropical nation is more than 99% water. The remaining 1% comprises a scattering of charter-friendly coral atolls, each with a saltwater lagoon hemmed in by a circular reef and inhabited by the world’s most spectacular marine life. From huge pods of dolphins to whale sharks, sperm whales, manta rays and hammerheads, a wildlife tour here is not about searching; it’s merely about opening your eyes. With its astonishing oceanic backdrops, the Maldives is a tropical yacht charter like no other.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Maldives • Start Port Malé • End Port Malé • Distance < 260 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Ari Atoll • Peak yachting season December to April • Time zone UTC + 5 hours

1 MALÉ

5 KANUHURA

.. .

...

Malé is unlike anywhere else in the Maldives. Inside its mighty ring of seawalls lies a tight-packed high-rise cityscape, cut through with narrow streets and charged with the fractious clatter and bustle of an authentic 24-hour hub.

An artificial beach on the east of the city provides welcome relief with a cooling summer swim.

Genteel but informal Kanuhura Island is a place where classical villas perch on stilts above the water’s surface. In addition to the obligatory spa, there are five upmarket restaurants, a useful watersports scene and even a nightclub. Anchor off this lovely island and head ashore for a gourmet dining experience in spectacular surroundings.

2 H U VA F E N F U S H I

6 K A AS H I D H O O I S L A N D

Huvafen Fushi is an extraordinary oasis of five-star pampering in a delectable setting. Down at the shore, huge rays come to feed in the shallows by the chic beachside bar – and the tropical decadence continues elsewhere, with six gourmet restaurants, a famous subsurface spa and easy access to lots of equally alluring islets.

Unlike most Maldive islands, Kaashidhoo is perched out on its own in an expanse of oceanic terrain. Bananas, lemons and watermelons are grown here and the lagoon also provides shelter for various northbound boats. With a scattering of Buddhist monuments to supplement its classic Maldive allure, this is one of the region’s most diverse and multi-textured resorts.

.. .

3 R AS D H O O

.. .

The compact Rasdhoo Atoll comprises a near perfect ring of coral with Rasdhoo Island at its entry point and a pair of alternative resorts for visitors to consider in the form of Kuramathi and Veligandu.

It’s a popular daytrip destination from the neighbouring resorts and it’s also a great place to go diving with hammerheads.

5

4

...

6

7 DHIFFUSHI

...

On the eastern edge of the North Malé Atoll, Dhiffushi is one of the most tranquil islands in the Maldives. Well-regarded Meerufenfushi Island with its resort, spa, restaurant and bar, is only a short hop north, but with its slower, more relaxed pace, Dhiffushi makes the ideal refuge before a return to the happy mayhem of Malé.

4 L A N D A A G I R A AVA R U

.. .

At the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll lies Landaa Giraavaru and the famous Four Seasons Resort. With a vast natural lagoon and more than 40 acres of tropical island wilderness at your disposal, you can swim with rays and whale sharks, dine at one of three restaurants or luxuriate at the island spa.

2

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

7

...

Malé – Huvafen Fushi 16 Nm Huvafen Fushi – Rasdhoo 25 Nm Rasdhoo – Landaa Giraavaru 60 Nm Landaa Giraavaru – Kanuhura 35 Nm Kanuhura – Kaashidhoo 40 Nm Kaashidhoo – Dhiffushi 35 Nm Dhiffushi – Malé 42 Nm

3

1

Ibrahim Nasir international Airport

MALDIVES TROPICAL OCEAN ADVENTURES

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

APRIL

072 • 073

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE INDIAN OCEAN

...

PAR ADIS E RE DISC OVE RE D

...

A thousand miles off the African coast, in the western reaches of the Indian Ocean, the 115 equatorial islands that make up the Seychelles are the epitome of a tropical paradise. The natural arrangement of granite islands, curved coral reefs and sheltered saltwater lagoons makes the Seychelles an ideal venue for watersports – not least surfing, diving, fishing and kayaking. The chief cruising grounds tend to revolve around the three primary islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, but whichever region you choose, a Seychelles yacht charter encompasses steep, forested mountains, spectacular golden beaches and clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life.

S U G G E S T E D I T I N E R A RY

...

Region Seychelles • Start Port Mahé • End Port Praslin • Distance < 100 Nm • Destinations 7 Alternative route Desroches to Les Souers • Peak yachting season April to October • Time zone UTC + 4 hours 1 MAHÉ

3 F R E G AT E I S L A N D

...

...

...

Mahé is often used as the central hub for a Seychelles charter holiday, but with around 70 beaches, plus a busy port and a lively market, the island is not without merit. Top entertainments include watching giant turtles, swimming with dolphins and hiking the tropical mountains of the Morne Seychellois National Park.

As one of the largest private island resorts in the entire archipelago, Fregate’s white sandy beaches are an important wildlife haven for Hawksbill turtles and Aldabra giant tortoises. Aside from the inherent pleasures of isolation, there are also some super-exclusive holiday resorts and villas here – ideal for those intent on serious escape.

Grande Soeur and Petite Soeur sit at the eastern perimeter of the inner isles, near Félicité and Ile Cocos. There are no moorings available but there are good anchorages on the western side of Grande Soeur, offering access to big ocean views, great walks, idyllic picnic opportunities and high-class diving in fish-rich waters.

With its bleached, powdery sands, scatterings of pink boulders and magnificent bays and coves, the Seychelles’ second largest island is a beach lover’s paradise. Diving off the north coast is also a treat and the UNESCO-protected Vallée de Mai primeval palm forest is a place of international importance.

4 LA DIGUE

6 CURIEUSE

.. .

2 SILHOUETTE ISLAND

.. .

Silhouette Island is a place of astonishing loveliness. The walking, diving and fishing are superb and as both a national park and a national marine park, that’s not likely to change. But there’s luxury as well as rusticity here, with a selection of high-end spa developments, not least in the form of the five-star Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort.

5 GRANDE SOEUR

7 P R AS L I N

...

...

La Digue offers a very low-key form of tourism, with a modest peppering of guesthouses and restaurants, plus some watersports operators, bicycle providers and horse-riding companies. However, it remains at heart a simple Creole island, with ox carts, plantation houses and blissful white beaches – and it’s all the more appealing for that.

Despite the absence of any hotels or restaurants, the protected island of Curieuse remains a key destination for day-trippers from neighbouring Praslin.

Its National Marine Park status means you have to pay to enter (and to moor overnight), but its mangrove forests, turtle breeding grounds and glorious dive sites certainly make up for that.

6 5 7

Praslin Island Airport

4

2

3

Seychelles International Airport 1

RANGE Approximate nautical miles

...

Mahé – Silhouette Island 18 Nm Silhouette Island – Fregate Island 41 Nm Fregate Island – La Digue 15 Nm La Digue – Grande Soeur 6 Nm Grande Soeur – Curieuse 11 Nm Curieuse – Praslin 8 Nm

SEYCHELLES PARADISE REDISCOVERED

WHEN TO GO APRIL – OCTOBER

074 • 075

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE THE CARIBBEAN

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

APRIL

...

THE CARIBBEAN ...

The Caribbean is littered with uplifting destinations. From the peerless exclusivity of Mustique to the festival energy of the Bahamas, the textured colonial heritage of the Virgin Islands and the piratical narratives of Antigua; from Florida in the north to Bonaire in the south and Barbados in the east – this vast, multicultural maritime playground is a place of Paradise islands, open ocean wildlife and thrilling historical intrigue.

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

Florida • Bahamas • Cuba • British Virgin Islands • Windward Islands • Leeward Islands 076 • 077

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE THE CARIBBEAN

...

T ROPIC AL C OC K TAI L

...

Between the Gulf of Mexico and the open Atlantic, the Northern Caribbean is a place where cruise ships and charter yachts mingle with vast marine migrations, vibrant island cultures and deep-rooted nautical heritage.

While once it was a hotbed of piracy, today its vibrant coral reefs are home to some of the world’s most legendary dive spots and wildlife sites. With its pungent mix of upmarket travellers, genial residents, lively tourist destinations and deserted tropical islands, it’s a truly memorable region.

F L O R I DA

...

From Palm Beach to Key West, the Sunshine State’s oceanic coastline marries city excitement with tropical seclusion to great effect. From the vibrant, Venetian-style superyacht hub of Fort Lauderdale to Miami’s Latin American vibe and the welcome serenity of the glittering Florida Keys archipelago, America’s cosmopolitan southwest is one of the greatest charter destinations in the world.

BAHAMAS

...

With around 700 islands, comprising everything from tourist hotspots to untouched swellings of reef and rock, the Bahamas is a destination of near mythical status. Shallow seas, warm water, fine beaches and exotic marine life make it a paradise for swimmers, watersports fans and anglers – and cultural tourists are also well served, with a relaxed lifestyle that continues to resonate with musical and nautical heritage.

CUBA

...

Cuba’s convoluted political history has given this island nation a fascinating patchwork of architectural styles, cuisines and striking regional peculiarities. With its proud heritage, its proliferation of iconic American muscle cars and the enduring musical vibe of its street culture, it’s not difficult to see why modern, effervescent Cuba is rapidly becoming a charter destination of choice.

5

6 4

March Harbour International Airport

3

1

Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport 2

SUGGESTED F L O R I DA I T I N E R A RY Approximate nautical miles

Miami International Airport

.. .

Fort Lauderdale (1) – Miami (2) 25 Nm Miami – Key Largo (3) 42 Nm Key Largo – Islamorada (4) 23 Nm Islamorada – Marathon (5) 28 Nm Marathon – Big Pine Key (6) 20 Nm Big Pine Key – Key West (7) 26 Nm

6

SUGGESTED BAHAMAS I T I N E R A RY Approximate nautical miles

...

Nassau (1) – Eleuthera (2) 60 Nm Eleuthera – Elbow Cay (3) 110 Nm Elbow Cay – Marsh Harbour (4) 7 Nm Marsh Harbour – Treasure Cay (5) 14 Nm Treasure Cay – Guana Cay (6) 9 Nm Guana Cay – Paradise Island (7) 105 Nm

José Martí International Airport

7 1

4

5 7

Lynden Pindling International Airport

3

2

Rock Sound International Airport

NORTH CARIBBEAN TROPICAL COCKTAIL

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

APRIL

078 • 079

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE THE CARIBBEAN

...

H E RI TAGE + E LEGANC E

...

The Leeward chain comprises several island nations, each with contrasting landscapes and cultural flavours.

From the international sophistication of ultra-chic St. Barths and Anguilla to the historical serenity of Antigua and the tropical tranquility of St. Kitts, its multifaceted profile is a treat for those in search of a diverse yacht charter. You can adapt your route to include some of the smaller destinations, like Barbuda, Nevis and Saba; or head further south for the dynamic, French-influenced islands of Montserrat, Dominica and Guadeloupe. However, with its Georgian harbour, world-famous beaches, sumptuous resorts and elegant capital city, the idyllic Caribbean island of Antigua is a critical stopover on any Leeward yacht charter.

In the far northwest of the region, the Virgin Islands is a different experience again. The US islands are more lively, developed and glamorous; and the British Virgins are smaller, more authentic and more intimate. Enjoy the pristine habitats of Prickly Pear Island or the carnival energy of St Thomas; the rustic marketplaces of Tortola or the laid-back swagger of Cruz Bay. With its year-round sun, floating bars, wreck diving sites and vibrant cultural colour, this Caribbean destination is tailor-made for charter yacht adventure.

SUGGESTED L E E WA R D I T I N E R A RY Approximate nautical miles

2

Clayton J Lloyd International Airport

.. .

1

St Maarten (1) – Anguilla (2) 13 Nm Anguilla – St Barths (3) 22 Nm St Barths – Saba (4) 25 Nm Saba – St Kitts (5) 37 Nm St Kitts – Nevis (6) 6 Nm Nevis – Antigua (7) 40 Nm

Princess Juliana International Airport 3

4

5

Robert L Bradshaw International Airport Vance W Amory International Airport

VC Bird International Airport

6 7

SUGGESTED VIRGINS I T I N E R A RY Approximate nautical miles

...

St Thomas (1) – Jost Van Dyke (2) 7 Nm Jost Van Dyke – Tortola (3) 14 Nm Tortola – Virgin Gorda (4) 12 Nm Virgin Gorda – Norman Island (5) 16 Nm Norman Island – St John (6) 13 Nm St John – St Thomas 4 Nm Beef Island Tortola Airport 2

Cyril E King International Airport

4

3

Virgin Gorda Airport 1 6 5

CENTRAL CARIBBEAN HERITAGE + ELEGANCE

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

APRIL

080 • 0 81

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

CRUISING GUIDE THE CARIBBEAN

...

C A R N I VA L CRUISING

...

The Windward Islands is a complex chain of volcanic landmasses that punctures the surface of the eastern Caribbean – and from the French-influenced gastronomic hotspot of Martinique in the north to the famous spice island of Grenada in the south, it’s a place very much favoured by the world’s yacht charter elite. With steep, tropical peaks wrapped in thick rainforest and sheltered coves visible only to inbound yachts, it has also provided the dramatic backdrop to several swashbuckling Hollywood films. As a charter destination, it offers a memorable scattering of reef, cay and islet and while both St Lucia and St Vincent are rich in rare wildlife, dramatic hiking routes and colonial heritage, the peerless privacy of Mustique makes it one of the world’s most exclusive retreats.

SUGGESTED W I N D WA R D S I T I N E R A RY Approximate nautical miles

.. .

Rodney Bay (1) – The Pitons (2) 19 Nm The Pitons – St Vincent (3) 49 Nm St Vincent – Bequia (4)11 Nm Bequia – Mustique (5)13 Nm Mustique – Grenada (6) 69 Nm

1

2

Hewanorra International Airport

3

ET Joshua Airport 4

5

6

Maurice Bishop International Airport

WINDWARD ISLANDS CARNIVAL CRUISING

WHEN TO GO DECEMBER –

APRIL

082 • 083

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CRUISING GUIDE THE AMERICAS

...

THE AMERICAS ...

From Alaska in the north to Antarctica in the south and from the Atlantic east to the Pacific west, the opportunity for adventure here is fantastically rich. Whether you favour the lost Mayan civilisations of Belize, the magnificent melting pot of Panama or San Francisco’s urban energy, this thrilling region of jungle-drenched volcanic landscapes and vast, creaking glaciers offers a variety and scale unmatched anywhere else in the world.

C R U I S I N G ZO N E S ...

Alaska • North California • Nicaragua • Costa Rica • Belize • Panama • Galapagos • Patagonia • Antarctica

WHEN TO GO JANUARY –

DECEMBER

084 • 085

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CRUISING GUIDE THE AMERICAS

...

LANDMARKS + HINTERLANDS

...

The ‘Pacific Northwest’, between Alaska and northern California, exhibits an invigorating dynamic between the wild and the well heeled. Alaska is a powerful affirmation of nature’s scale – from intimidating mountains and rolling glaciers to the fearsome spectacle of whales, bears and eagles. San Francisco Bay, however, is a hotbed of fabled urban icons, like Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, all wrapped up in a rich landscape of surfing beaches, verdant vineyards, yacht-friendly coves and National Parks.

N O RT H W E S T A M E R I C A S N A P S H O T

...

Much of old San Francisco was made from prospectors’ deserted ships.

Alaska has more coastline than the rest of the United States combined.

San Francisco is built on the tip of a peninsula with water on three sides.

There are more than 3,000 rivers and 3 million lakes in Alaska.

Juneau International Airport 1

San Francisco International Airport

1 CHOOSE A L AS K A F O R . . .

.. .

Humpback whales Virgin landscapes Vast glaciers Extreme isolation 2 CHOOSE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA FOR...

.. .

Dramatic cityscapes Wine tours Famous sights Maritime tradition

2

Los Angeles International Airport

NORTHWEST AMERICA LANDMARKS + HINTERLANDS

WHEN TO GO MAY – SEPTEMBER

086 • 087

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CRUISING GUIDE THE AMERICAS

...

TRANSOCEANIC E XPLOR AT ION

...

Though it might lack the slick gentrification of the world’s most exclusive yachting destinations, the unpasteurised wildness of Central America’s charter scene is a big draw. Dense jungle landscapes are littered with lakes, rivers, ancient architectural sites and smouldering volcanoes. The towns and villages abound with intoxicating Creole flavours and the unique twin-coast geography offers not just a Caribbean coastline full of desert island delights, but a Pacific shore with big surf beaches and open ocean sport. From exotic Belize to dynamic Panama, Spanish-flavoured Nicaragua and wild Costa Rica, the natural generosity of this yacht charter venue is the stuff of legend.

CENTRAL AMERICA SNAPSHOT

...

The jungles of Belize hide some of the world’s most valuable Mayan ruins.

More than 13,000 ships pass through Panama’s canal every single day.

Lago Nicaragua is home to more than 460 volcanic islands.

Costa Rica boasts the highest biodiversity density on the planet.

1 CHOOSE BELIZE FOR...

2 CHOOSE N I C A R AG U A F O R . . .

3 CHOOSE C O STA R I C A F O R . ..

4 CHOOSE PA N A M A F O R ...

5 CHOOSE G A L A PAG O S F O R ...

Atmospheric heritage World trade Cultural dynamism International glamour

Unique biodiversity Historical significance Outdoor exploration Untouched environments

.. .

...

...

Virgin jungle Mayan ruins Subsurface adventure Eco-escapism

Pacific fishing Wreck diving Outdoor adventure Creole culture

Volcanic landscapes Exotic wildlife Big surf beaches ‘Pura vida’ (the pure life)

...

...

Philip SW Goldson International Airport 1

2

Augusto César Sandino International Airport

3

4

Tobias Bolanos International Airport 5

Aeropuerto de General Villamil

Tocumen International Airport

CENTRAL AMERICA TRANSOCEANIC EXPLORATION

WHEN TO GO NOVEMBER –

MAY

088 • 089

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

CRUISING GUIDE THE AMERICAS

...

FRONTIER EXPEDITIONS

...

While Brazil might enjoy a reputation as the jewel of South America’s yacht charter scene, the regions in the far south offer something unmatched in the rest of the world. At the southernmost tip of the mainland, where the Pacific and Atlantic oceans clash at infamous Cape Horn, the opportunities for adventure are fantastically rich. Here at the bottom end of the Andes, Chile and Argentina exhibit a truly intrepid, ‘frontier-style’ yachting experience – and as you head further south, the extremes intensify at the Antarctic Peninsula, gateway to the world’s most inhospitable continent.

SOUTH AMERICA SNAPSHOT

...

A yacht charter in this part of the world is always reliant on the weather.

The blue whale is a regular visitor to the waters of the far south.

The northern peninsula is the only real point of access to the Antarctic.

The cruising grounds expand and contract with the ice and the seasons.

1 CHOOSE PATAG O N I A F O R . . .

...

Whale watching Rolling glaciers Mountain hikes Off-grid exploration Ezeiza International Airport

2 CHOOSE A N TA R C T I C A F O R . ..

...

Polar landscapes Expedition yachting Whale watching Pristine isolation

Comandante Armando International Airport

1

Rio Grande Airport

Ushuaia - Malvinas Argentinas International

2 2

SOUTH AMERICA FRONTIER EXPEDITIONS

WHEN TO GO NOVEMBER –

MARCH

090 • 091

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY 2019 V E S S E L S F O R C H A R T E R

...

LILI AMELS 55.00m

2 019

...

YAC H T DIRECTORY ...

T H E F O L L O W I N G PA G E S C O N TA I N A S T U N N I N G P O R T F O L I O O F S O M E O F T H E W O R L D ’ S M O ST G L A M O R O U S YA C H TS

098 • 099

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY 2 019 V E S S E L S F O R C H A R T E R

IMPERIAL FLEET V E SS E L

LENGTH

BUILDER

GUESTS

... ...

R AT E * W I N T E R / S U M M E R R E G I O N W I N T E R / S U M M E R

...

SAVANNAH ROMEA LEGEND TITANIA SOLO OKTO LADY BRITT 11.11 SARASTAR LILI ELIXIR IRISHA DA VINCI VERTIGE ENDEAVOUR 2 OURANOS KHALILAH ANDIAMO PRINCESS AVK ASYA ENTOURAGE LEGENDA OKKO

83.50m 81.80m 77.40m 73.00m 72.00m 66.40m 63.00m 63.00m 60.20m 55.00m 55.00m 51.00m 50.00m 50.00m 49.90m 49.90m 49.00m 47.60m 47.25m 46.70m 46.55m 41.10m 41.00m

Feadship Abeking & Rasmussen Icon Yachts Lürssen Tankoa Yachts Int. Shipyard Ancona Feadship Benetti Mondomarine Amels Amels Heesen Mangusta Yachts Tankoa Yachts Rossinavi Admiral Palmer Johnson Baglietto Sunseeker Heesen Admiral Mondomarine Mondomarine

12 12 26 12 12 10 12 12 12 12 12 10 12 12 10 12 11 12 12 12 12 10 10

€1,000,000 / €1,000,000 €875,000 / €875,000 €490,000 / €490,000 €525,000 / €630,000 €595,000 / €650,000 Please enquire / €400,000 $445,000 / €445,000 €650,000 / €650,000 $364,000 / €392,000 €290,000 / €315,000 $275,000 / €275,000 €280,000 / €280,000 €225,000 / €250,000 $250,000 / €240,000 €275,000 / €275,000 €210,000 / €210,000 €255,000 / €255,000 Please enquire / €275,000 €210,000 / €210,000 €240,000 / €240,000 €200,000 / €225,000 €135,000 / €135,000 Please enquire / €150,000

Indian Ocean, SE Asia / W Mediterranean Caribbean / W Mediterranean S America & Antarctica / Arctic & N Europe Red Sea, Indian Ocean, SE Asia / Mediterranean Caribbean / Mediterranean Please enquire / Mediterranean Caribbean / Mediterranean Caribbean / Mediterranean Caribbean / W Mediterranean Indian Ocean, SE Asia, Pacific / Mediterranean Caribbean / W Mediterranean W Mediterranean / W Mediterranean W Mediterranean / W Mediterranean Caribbean / Mediterranean Please enquire / W Mediterranean Mediterranean / Mediterranean W Mediterranean / W Mediterranean Please enquire / W Mediterranean W Mediterranean / W Mediterranean Middle East / Mediterranean Please enquire / W Mediterranean Please enquire / Mediterranean Please enquire / W Mediterranean

GUESTS

R AT E *

10 12 12 8 8 6 6 8

€115,000 €105,000 €98,000 €55,000 €39,000 €36,000 €45,000 €30,000

...

...

...

PERFORMANCE FLEET V E SS E L

LENGTH

FLEUR DECEMBER SIX MIA MINX IGELE NELENA MX5 SHAWLIFE

35.20m Sunseeker 33.00m Ferretti Yachts 32.10m Gulf Craft 27.01m Princess Yachts 23.98m Ferretti Yachts 22.60m Princess Yachts 21.44m Pershing 21.25m Princess Yachts

...

...

BUILDER

...

... ...

SAILING FLEET V E SS E L

LENGTH

BUILDER

GUESTS

... ...

R AT E * W I N T E R / S U M M E R R E G I O N W I N T E R / S U M M E R

...

AQUIJO VERTIGO PERSEUS^3 SEAHAWK TWIZZLE Q

86.00m 67.20m 60.00m 58.60m 57.49m 51.75m

Oceanco – Vitters Alloy Yachts Perini Navi Perini Navi Royal Huisman Alloy Yachts

12 12 12 12 8 10

Please enquire / €550,000 Please enquire / €245,000 €250,000 / €250,000 €250,000 / €250,000 €235,000 / €235,000 €180,000 / €195,000

SE Asia, Pacific / Please enquire Please enquire / Mediterranean Caribbean / Mediterranean Caribbean / Please enquire SE Asia & Pacific / Please enquire Caribbean / W Mediterranean

...

...

...

* Charter rate begins at this figure – stated sum represents the minimum weekly charter rate. Rates & charter lengths vary.

• Charter rates are quoted per week for the hire of the yacht but a charter period can be of any length.

• Charter periods are calculated pro-rata against the weekly rate. High season rates apply to the most popular charter periods, i.e. July / August & Christmas / New Year are also normally applicable to all major events such as the Monaco Grand Prix & the Cannes Film Festival. Low season rates applyto all other periods.

• All rates are correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.

CHARTER INDEX SPECIFICATION SUMMARY

10 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 101

...

RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 8 1. 8 0 m

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

MOTOR YACHTS FOR CHARTER

...

IMPERIAL FLEET ...

C R E AT E T H E S E T T I N G FO R U N FO R G E T TA B L E E X P E R I E N C E S A B O A R D O U R 2 018 P O R T F O L I O O F M OTO R YA C H TS

...

RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 8 1. 8 0 m

10 2

â&#x20AC;¢

10 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

S AVA N N A H S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 83.5m / 273’11” • Builder Feadship • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 24 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from €1,000,000 / week • Summer rate from €1,000,000 / week Winter cruising area Indian Ocean & South East Asia • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

Spectacular & expansive interior • Underwater observation lounge Spa with Hammam, massage, facials & nail treatments available Elevator serving all interior decks • Exceptional swimming pool • Multiple skylights

SAVANNAH 83.5 METRES / 6 CABINS

10 4 â&#x20AC;¢ 10 5

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

RoMEA 81. 8 0 M E T R E S / 6 C A B I N S

Ro M E A ...

L E N G T H 81.80 METR ES

10 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 107

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

RoMEA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 81.8m /268’ 4” • Builder Abeking & Rasmussen • Guests 12 in 4 double & 2 twin cabins • Crew 23 Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from €875,000 / week • Summer rate from €875,000 /week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

One of the biggest motor yachts available in the Mediterranean • Elevator • Indoor & outdoor cinemas Six large staterooms with owner’s full-beam private area including an extra children’s double cabin • Impressive selection of water toys Outstanding interiors decorated with high-end luxury furniture • Beach club with steam room & Jacuzzi Exclusive spa with all facilities, including dedicated massage/beauty therapy areas

RoMEA 81. 8 0 M E T R E S / 6 C A B I N S

10 8 â&#x20AC;¢ 10 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LEGEND S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 1974 (rebuilt 2015) • Length 77.4m / 253’ 11” • Builder Icon Yachts • Guests 26 in 8 Double & 5 Convertible cabins Crew 19 • Cruising Speed 11 knots • Winter rate from €490,000 / week • Summer rate from €490,000 / week Winter cruising area Antarctica & South America• Summer cruising area Arctic & Northern Europe .. .

Impressive charter records in remote destinations • Class-1 ice-breaking hull • Luxury entertainment on board including gym & cinema Certified helipad • Balinese Spa • Impressive selection of toys with snow scooters & 3-man submarine

LEGEND 7 7. 4 M E T R E S / 13 C A B I N S

11 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 111

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

TITANIA 73 . 0 0 M E T R E S / 7 C A B I N S

TITANIA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2006 (refit 2018) • Length 73m / 239’ 6” • Builder Lürssen • Guests 12 in 7 Double cabins Crew 21 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from €525,000 / week • Summer rate from €630,000 /week Winter cruising area Red Sea, Indian Ocean, South-East Asia• Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

Extensive refit in 2018 • Flexible accommodation • Vast spaces and exclusive amenities Massage room & beauty salon with on board masseuse & beautician • Exclusive pool with swim-up bar Glass windowed gym with panoramic views & personal trainer • Jacuzzi

112 • 11 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

SOLO 72.00 METRES / 6 CABINS

SOLO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2018 • Length 72m / 236’ • Builder Tankoa Yachts • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 18 • Cruising Speed 15 knots • Winter rate from €595,000 / week • Summer rate from €650,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

Oversized beach club with a lounge/bar area, hammam & sauna with a sea view & balcony • Harmonious interior layout Infinity pool on the aft deck & large Jacuzzi on the upper aft deck • Private touch-&-go helipad converting into a dance floor Owner’s deck including a private studio & terrace with Jacuzzi • Fully-equipped Gym & massage room with sea views & folding balcony

11 4 • 115

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

OKTO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2014 • Length 66.4m / 217’10” • Builder International Shipyard Ancona • Guests 10 in 5 Double cabins Crew 17 • Cruising Speed 16 knots • Winter rate from Please enquire • Summer rate from €400,000 / week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area Mediterranean .. .

Entertainment facilities include dedicated Massage/Beauty therapy room, Jacuzzi & Cinema Private Owner’s balcony • Striking grey & black pinstripe decks • Six-metre swimming pool Elevator from Lower deck to Bridge deck • Gym on Top deck with floor to ceiling windows

OKTO 66.40 METRES / 5 CABINS

11 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 11 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LADY BRIT T 63.00 METRES / 7 CABINS

LADY BRIT T S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2011 • Length 63m / 206’ 8” • Builder Feadship • Guests 12 in 5 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 16 • Cruising Speed 13.5 knots • Winter rate from $445,000 / week • Summer rate from €445,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

RYA training establishment for jet-skis • Outdoor & indoor cinemas Dedicated Wellness Spa with Elemis treatments • Authentic Finnish spa with separate fold-down platform to the ocean Michelin star award-winning chef • Extensive watersports equipment including aqua glide fun park

11 8 • 11 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

11 . 11 63.00 METRES / 6 CABINS

11 . 11 S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 63m / 206’ 8” • Builder Benetti • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 16 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from €650,000 / week • Summer rate from €650,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean & Bahamas • Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

Art Deco interiors • Master suite with 180-degree views & private Sun deck Steam room & Massage room • Oversized Jacuzzi on Sun deck

12 0 • 121

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

SARASTAR S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 60.2m / 197’6” • Builder Mondomarine • Guests 12 in 5 Double & 1 Twin cabins Crew 15 • Cruising Speed 18 knots • Winter rate from $364,000 / week • Summer rate from €364,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean• Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

Sleek & modern exteriors • High-end custom designed interior with onyx, exotic marbles & semi-precious stones Beach club & large swim platform • Gym • Impressive selection of water toys

SARASTAR 60.20 METRES / 6 CABINS

12 2 â&#x20AC;¢ 12 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LILI 55.00 METRES / 6 CABINS

LILI ...

L E N G T H 55.00 METR ES

12 4 â&#x20AC;¢ 12 5

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LILI S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 55m / 180’5” • Builder Amels • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 13 • Cruising Speed 13.5 knots • Winter rate from €290,000 / week • Summer rate from €315,000 /week Winter cruising area Indian Ocean, South-East Asia, Pacific • Summer cruising area Mediterranean .. .

Customised Amels 180 Limited Edition, launched in 2017 Exclusive layout with two Master cabins: Owner suite and its private aft deck on Upper deck, and VIP stateroom on Main deck Folding balconies on port and starboard main deck and VIP cabin • Beach club with steam room 105” LED Samsung with surround sound on Main deck salon and AVIT - Sonos/Vidabox system throughout the vessel Gym on Main deck with treadmill • Four-metre swimming pool with counter-current jets

LILI 55.00 METRES / 6 CABINS

12 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 12 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

ELIXIR 55.00 METRES / 5 CABINS

ELIXIR S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016 • Length 55m / 180’5” • Builder Amels • Guests 12 in 3 Double & 2 Twin cabins • Crew 13 Cruising Speed 13 knots • Winter rate from $275,000 / week • Summer rate from €275,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Part of the popular Amels 180 Limited Edition series • Master cabin with fold-down balcony Sundeck with Jacuzzi, BBQ and backlit onyx bar • Sky lounge cinema • Large array of Gym equipment Impressive set of water toys, including jet skis and Seabobs

12 8 • 12 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

IRISHA 51 . 0 0 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

IRISHA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2018 • Length 51m / 167’4” • Builder Heesen • Guests 10 in 5 Double cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 15 knots • High Season rate €280,000 /week • Low Season rate €280,000 / week Summer cruising area West Mediterranean • Winter cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Sleek silhouette inspired by a modern jet fighter aircraft, with a 25-knots top speed Eye-catching metallic blue hull and glass cockpit • Expansive exterior designed as an elegant outdoor living space Sliding doors transform the aft deck into a winter garden • Open-air Jacuzzi located on the sundeck Ultra-contemporary interior design • Beach club with massage area • Non-stop action thanks to a very wide range of water toys

13 0 • 131

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

DA VINCI 50.00 METRES / 5 CABINS

DA VINCI S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 50m / 164’1” • Builder Mangusta Yachts • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 1 Twin cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 21 knots • Winter rate from €225,000 / week • Summer rate from €250,000 /week Winter cruising area West Mediterranean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

The largest Mangusta available on the charter market • Maximum speed up to 38 knots Wide side decks with impressive sightlines • Jacuzzi with large sunbeds & lounge areas on bow Wide & bright open-plan interior • Impressive selection of water toys

13 2 • 13 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

VERTIGE S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 50m / 164’ • Builder Tankoa Yachts • Guests 12 guests in 5 Double & 1 Twin cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from $250,000 / week • Summer rate from €240,000 / week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area Mediterranean .. .

Very sleek lines & elegant behavior at sea • The best outdoor spaces for sea lovers Large sundeck with Bar, sound system & Jacuzzi • Interior made of teak furnishings & cream & beige colors Full-beam master suite including two side balconies • Full selection of tenders & water toys

VERTIGE 50.00 METRES / 6 CABINS

13 4 â&#x20AC;¢ 13 5

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

ENDEAVOUR 2 49.90 METRES / 5 CABINS

E N D E AVO U R 2 S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 49,90m / 163’9” • Builder Rossinavi • Guests 10 guests in 3 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 8 • Cruising Speed 12 knots • Winter rate from €275,000 / week • Summer rate from €275,000 /week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Ample sunbathing areas • Beach club • Contemporary interior, including Cinema Full-beam Master cabin • Exciting list of water toys

13 6 • 13 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

OURANOS S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016 • Length 49.90m / 163’ 9’’ • Builder Admiral • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Convertible cabins Crew 12 • Cruising Speed 16 knots • Winter rate from €210,000 / week • Summer rate from €210,000 / week Winter cruising area Mediterranean • Summer cruising area Mediterranean .. .

Named as the most silent superyacht in her category as per RINA standards • Generous volumes & aggressive design Beach club terrace aft including Gym & Massage room • Jacuzzi on Sun deck • Elevator serving all decks Six-cabin layout including an impressive Master cabin • Contemporary interiors with two large salons

OURANOS 49.90 METRES / 6 CABINS

13 8 â&#x20AC;¢ 13 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

KHALILAH S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 49m / 160’9” • Builder Palmer Johnson • Guests 11 guests in 4 Double & 1 Twin cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 20 knots • Winter rate from €255,000 / week • Summer rate from €255,000 /week Winter cruising area West Mediterranean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

Striking and masculine lines with an eye-catching golden hull • 110 square metre aft deck Large Beach club • Sunpads & Jacuzzi on bow • Innovative windows from floor to ceiling Interior decorated with a vibrant palette of fabrics and colours • Unique artwork • 2-star Michelin trained Chef

KHALILAH 49.00 METRES / 5 CABINS

14 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 141

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

ANDIAMO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 47.60m /156’ 2” • Builder Baglietto • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 15 knots • Winter rate from Please enquire • Summer rate from €275,000 /week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

Eye catching 2,200 litre glass-fronted infinity pool, complete with waterfall Contemporary interior by Baglietto’s design partner Paszkowski features high-end finishes in onyx and lacquered ebony Great volumes and amazing living spaces • Sun deck of 140 sqm • At anchor stabilizers Reverse-angled wheelhouse windows • Dedicated onboard cinema

ANDIAMO 4 7. 6 0 M E T R E S / 6 C A B I N S

14 2 â&#x20AC;¢ 14 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

PRINCESS AVK 4 7. 2 5 M E T R E S / 6 C A B I N S

P R I N C E SS AV K S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016 • Length 47.25m /155’ • Builder Sunseeker • Guests 12 in 3 Double & 3 Convertible cabins Crew 11 • Cruising Speed 16 knots • Winter rate from €210,000 / week • Summer rate from €210,000 /week Winter cruising area West Mediterranean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Second Sunseeker 155’ ever launched with a large array of the latest technologies on board • Flexible furniture layout on Sun deck Beach club with sauna & shower • Holistic interior design with balconies unfurling from either side of the main deck saloon Floor to ceiling windows in Master & VIP cabins • Large set of water toys

14 4 • 14 5

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

A SYA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 46.70m /153’ 3” • Builder Heesen • Guests 12 in 3 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 9 • Cruising Speed 10 knots • Winter rate from €240,000 / week • Summer rate from €240,000 /week Winter cruising area Middle East• Summer cruising area West Mediterranean .. .

Sophisticated exterior design with elegant traditional lines • Zero-speed stabilizers & Sun deck Jacuzzi Balance of cosy nooks & large entertainment areas • Contemporary interior with moderate deep colors • Vast selection of water toys

ASYA 46.70 METRES / 5 CABINS

14 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 14 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

ENTOURAGE 46.55 METRES / 5 CABINS

ENTOURAGE S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2014 • Length 46.55m / 153’ • Builder Admiral • Guests 12 in 3 Double & 2 Convertible cabins • Crew 9 Cruising Speed 12 knots • Winter rate from €200,000 / week • Summer rate from €225,000 / week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Tasteful contemporary & minimalist decoration • State-of-the-art Egg Zero custom media system Magnificent Sky lounge on Upper deck • Owner suite including sauna & private Gym • Large salon with piano RYA-approved jetski school • Abundance of water sports equipment, including Seabob F5s

14 8 • 14 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LEGENDA 41. 10 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

LEGENDA ...

L E N G T H 41.10 METR ES

15 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 151

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

LEGENDA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2009 (refit 2015) • Length 41.10m / 134’10” • Builder Mondomarine • Guests 10 in 3 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 7 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Winter rate from €135,000 / week • Summer rate from €135,000 / week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area Mediterranean .. .

Famous Mondomarine series superyacht • Never available on the charter market before • Multiple upgrades on board Large exterior socialising spaces, including Jacuzzi on Sun deck • Experienced Captain & crew Versatile layout • Full-beam Owner stateroom on Main deck • Large selection of water toys

LEGENDA 41. 10 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

15 2 â&#x20AC;¢ 15 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

01

THE CAP TAIN’S PERSPECTIVE ...

Zeljko Mikulicic, Captain of M/Y LEGENDA, talks to Imperial about what makes his 41-metre yacht such a special addition to the charter fleet.

...

...

What makes the superyacht charter experience special?

First and foremost, the superyacht industry is about luxury - and personally, even as the Skipper of a yacht like LEGENDA, I still get a great deal of pleasure from it. You get to visit the world’s most lavish destinations and you get to meet some of the world’s most extraordinary people. So it’s about luxury at the highest level, in terms of services as well as places and products.

Is LEGENDA a particularly capable sea vessel?

She’s very capable. Of course, during a charter period, there’s always a compromise to be made between speed and comfort. In a Beaufort Scale 5, we can still carry on with a relaxed passage, but if it goes beyond that, we need to make it relatively slow to keep things comfortable. But that’s yachting. It always depends on the conditions and, while our stabilisers are of course designed to mitigate the impact of poor conditions, we can always adjust the itinerary to cater for bad weather if we need to.

What makes LEGENDA particularly attractive?

I’ve been involved with LEGENDA for a few months now and I have to say that, for a 41-metre motoryacht, the space available on the three decks is very impressive – particularly outside at the aft end and up on the Jacuzzi-equipped sundeck. We’ve got an aluminium hull, which is very typical of Mondomarine’s 40-metre plus yachts, and we’ve got a lot of toys too. We’ve obviously got stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, skis, wakeboards and inflatable toys, but we’ve also got two GP100 Jetsurfs, plus a couple of jetskis, two Seabobs and a comfortable five-metre tender. We’re also an authorised RYA training centre, so if guests don’t have their yachting licences and they want to pass a course during their charter, we can do that for them. And on top of all of that is the sense of exclusivity. LEGENDA has never been available for charter before, so it’s a really exclusive yacht and it very much feels that way.

How would you characterise your crew?

My crew is very experienced. We have a new First Officer, a new Chief Steward, and we’ve got an additional Chef, so the chefs are now on rotation – and already, it’s working very well. We’ve got a mixed crew too, so although English is our primary language, we’ve got enough flexibility with our crew in terms of their abilities, their experience and their languages to cater for pretty much any blend of charter guests.

How has your charter experience been to date?

We’ve had just two charters so far, the first in Turkish and Greek waters and the second one just in Turkey, and LEGENDA really does feel ideal for the Med. Turkey in particular was fantastic - far better even than we expected. There are plenty of beautiful anchorages, lots of sheltered bays and the Turkish mooring technique, where you connect the vessel with ropes to the rocks, is a lot of fun. In fact, I like it even more than the western Med in many ways. It’s not really been discovered yet compared to the charter industry’s more famous destinations like the French Riviera or parts of Italy or Corsica. But it has this really special atmosphere, it’s a comfortable place to cruise and in terms of value for money, it’s amazing.

So does LEGENDA enable you to change the itinerary as you go?

Yes, absolutely. We do need to be quite certain in terms of where we begin and end the charter; and in terms of safety, we obviously have to impose certain limits. But as for the rest, we can always be flexible - and that’s necessary because our clients are fully entitled to be demanding. If the planned itinerary says they want this island and, in the event, they change their minds and say they want another one, that’s no problem at all.

On the contrary, I really enjoy that because that’s what charter is. Otherwise why would our guests choose to charter our vessel? Itineraries change all the time and that’s normal for us. We’re always primed to make that happen - and if our guests are happy, then we all get a good experience out of it.

So why should people charter LEGENDA? We are a fresh vessel on the market. We’ve never chartered before and that in itself will be very attractive to people. Our length of 41 metres means we can access a lot of places, but we’ve still got a lot of toys, a lot of space and an excellent crew. We can provide everything from traditional cuisine to a more modern Mediterranean style of cooking, with every kind of food in between; and we are ready to provide the very highest level of service, whatever our guests’ wishes might be. ...

01 02 03 04 05 06

M/Y LEGENDA settles down for the evening Her size makes her the perfect vessel for exploring new coastlines Upper salon Main salon Jacuzzi Master suite

LEGENDA 41. 10 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

02

03

05

04

04

15 4 â&#x20AC;¢ 15 5

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

OKKO ...

L E N G T H 41.00 METR ES

OKKO 41. 0 0 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

15 6 â&#x20AC;¢ 15 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY IMPERIAL FLEET

OKKO 41. 0 0 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

OKKO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2012 • Length 41m / 133’ 8” • Builder Mondomarine • Guests 10 in 3 Double & 2 Twin cabins Crew 7 • Cruising Speed 13.5 knots • Winter rate from Please enquire • Summer rate from €150,000 /week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Modern & exciting superyacht • Popular hull with great acoustic insulation courtesy of dedicated vibro-acoustic work Versatile exterior decks including a large Jacuzzi & lounge on Sun deck aft • Wide and bright Master cabin on Main deck Clean interior design complemented by luxury materials and fabric from Fendi and IPE Cavalli • Impressive selection of water toys

15 8 • 15 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

YACHT DIREC TORY PERFORMANCE FLEET

MOTOR YACHTS FOR CHARTER

...

PERFORMANCE FLEET ...

S U P E R S L E E K S P O RTS B OATS & G RAC E F U L C L ASS I C S T H E P E R F E C T P L AT FO R M FO R A N I N T I MAT E FA M I LY VACAT I O N

16 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 16 1

...

MIA G U L F C R A F T 32 .10 m

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019 6

YACHT DIREC TORY PERFORMANCE FLEET

FLEUR S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016 • Length 35.20m / 115’6” • Builder Sunseeker • Guests 10 in 3 Double and 2 Twin cabins Crew 5 • Cruising Speed 17 knots • Rate From €115,000 per week

DECEMBER SIX S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2018 • Length 33.00 m /108’3” • Builder Ferretti Yachts • Guests 12 in 3 Double and 2 Twin cabins Crew 6 • Cruising Speed 13 knots • Rate From €105,000 per week

FLEUR 35.20 METRES DECEMBER SIX 33.00 METRES

M I A 32.10 M E T R E S M I N X 27. 01 M E T R E S

MIA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 32.10m / 105’4” • Builder Gulf Craft • Guests 12 in 3 Double and 2 Twin cabins Crew 5 • Cruising Speed 14 knots • Rate From €98,000 / week

MINX • 16 3

Year 2014 • Length 27.01m / 88’7” • Builder Princess Yachts • Guests 8 in 3 Double and 1 Twin cabins Crew 4 • Cruising Speed 18 knots • Rate From €55,000 / week

16 2

S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

YACHT DIREC TORY PERFORMANCE FLEET

IGELE S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2013 • Length 23.98m / 78’8” • Builder Ferretti Yachts • Guests 8 in 3 Double and 1 Twin cabins Crew 3 • Cruising Speed 24 knots • Rate From €39,000 / week

NELENA S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2017 • Length 22.60m / 74’2” • Builder Princess Yachts • Guests 6 in 2 Double and 1 Convertible cabins Crew 2 • Cruising Speed 22 knots • Rate From €36,000 / week

IGELE 23.98 METRES N E L E N A 22 . 6 0 M E T R E S

M X 5 21 . 4 4 M E T R E S S H A W L I F E 21 . 2 5 M E T R E S

MX5 S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016• Length 21.44m / 70’4” • Builder Pershing • Guests 6 in 2 Double and 1 Twin cabins Crew 2 • Cruising Speed 35 knots • Rate From €45,000 / week

SHAWLIFE • 16 5

Year 2016 • Length 21.25m / 69’9” • Builder Princess Yachts • Guests 8 In 2 Double and 2 Twin cabins Crew 2 • Cruising Speed 20 knots • Rate From €30,000 per week

16 4

S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY SAILING FLEET

...

AQUIJO OCEANCO & VITTERS 86.00M

SAILING YACHTS FOR CHARTER

...

SAILING FLEET ...

A N E X H I L A RAT I N G WAY TO S E E T H E W O R L D’S MOST BEAUTIFUL SHORES

16 6 • 167

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY SAILING FLEET

AQUIJO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2016 • Length 86m / 282’2” • Builder Oceanco & Vitters Collaboration • Guests 12 in 4 Doubles, 1 Twin & 2 Convertible lounges Crew 17 • Cruising Speed 15 knots • Winter rate from Please enquire • Summer rate from EUR 550,000 /week Winter cruising area South-East Asia & Pacific • Summer cruising area Please enquire ...

Beach club with spa area, steam room, sauna and hot tub • Aft deck with indoor/outdoor bar Two Jacuzzis • Comfort of a large motor yacht but a sailing yacht at heart

AQUIJO 86.00 METRES / 7 CABINS

VERTIGO 6 7. 2 0 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

VERTIGO S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2011 • Length 67.20m / 220’ 6” • Builder Alloy Yachts • Guests 12 in 4 Double & 1 Triple cabins • Crew 11 Cruising Speed 12.5 knots • Winter rate from Please enquire• Summer rate from EUR 245,000 /week Winter cruising area Please enquire • Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

Largest sailing yacht built in the Southern Hemisphere • Deck features oversized Jacuzzi with retractable sunpads, glass screens and aircon Loft style interiors, with children’s classroom and family features • Gymnasium with direct sea access Impressive array of water toys including two tenders and one limousine tender

16 8 • 16 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY SAILING FLEET

PERSEUS^3 S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2015 • Length 60m /196’ 10” • Builder Perini Navi • Guests 12 in 3 Double and 2 Twin cabins • Crew 11 Cruising Speed 12 knots • Winter rate from EUR 250,000 / week • Summer rate from EUR 250,000 /week Winter cruising area Caribbean• Summer cruising area Mediterranean ...

One of the most innovative charter sailing yachts on the water • Sloop ring with 75m mast Large Kaleidescape Library with Blueray movies • Foredeck Endless Pool Spa Highly modern interiors with 5-star accommodation • Large selection of water sports equipment

PERSEUS ^3 60.00 METRES / 5 CABINS

SEAHAWK 58.60 METRES / 6 CABINS

SEAHAWK S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2013 • Length 58.60m / 192’3” • Builder Perini Navi • Guests 12 in 6 Double cabins • Crew 11 Cruising Speed 12.5 knots • Winter rate from EUR 250,000 / week • Summer rate from EUR 250,000 /week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area Please enquire ...

Perini Navi’s most advanced sailing yacht design • Carbon fibre rigging • Captive winches to increase power and speed in navigation Refined and contemporary interiors by French designer Christian Liaigre • Full-beam Owner’s suite convertible into two separate staterooms Approved RYA Water Sports Centre • RYA Personal Watercraft Instructors on board • Impressive selection of water toys

17 0 • 171

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

YACHT DIREC TORY SAILING FLEET

TWIZZLE S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2010 (refit 2016) • Length 57.49m / 188’7” • Builder Royal Huisman • Guests 8 in 3 Double and 1 Twin cabins (+1 Pullman bed) Crew 11 • Cruising Speed 11 knots • Winter rate from EUR 235,000 / week • Summer rate from EUR 235,000 /week Winter cruising area South-East Asia & Pacific • Summer cruising area Please enquire ...

Multi award-winning sailing yacht • Fully customised stern platform • Large Kaleidescape Library with Blueray movies Foredeck Endless Pool Spa • Stunning and tastefully decorated interior with unique layout • Very spacious exterior decks

TWIZZLE 57. 4 9 M E T R E S / 4 C A B I N S

Q 5 1. 7 5 M E T R E S / 5 C A B I N S

FRENCH RIVIERA

Q S P E C I F I C AT I O N ...

Year 2008 (refit 2016) • Length 51.75m / 169’9” • Builder Alloy Yachts • Guests 10 in 3 Double and 2 Twin cabins (+2 Pullman) • Crew 9 Cruising Speed 10 knots • Winter rate from EUR 180,000 / week • Summer rate from EUR 195,000 /week Winter cruising area Caribbean • Summer cruising area West Mediterranean ...

Multi award-winning sailing yacht with outstanding sailing performance • Beautiful Dubois naval architecture New sails • Vast climate-controlled cockpit • Large Jacuzzi surrounded by sunpads

17 2 • 17 3

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

IMPERIAL

...

SERVICES ...

A superyacht requires a cohesive support network of experts to perform at its best.

That’s why our family of professionals is equipped to take charge of every facet of the superyacht experience, from crewing and year-round operational support to finance, marketing, sale & purchase.

074 • 075

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SERVICES NEW CONSTRUCTION

...

NEW CONSTRUCTION KEY CONSTRUCTION HIGHLIGHTS ...

PROJECT SHU LÜRSSEN 135.00m • PROJECT 14692 LÜRSSEN 130.00m • AMADEA LÜRSSEN 106.10m • AMORE VERO OCEANCO 86.00m • RoMEA ABEKING & RASMUSSEN 81.80m PROJECT 783 NOBISKRUG 73.50m • SUPPORT VESSEL 6711 DAMEN 67.00m • EVENT AMELS 60.00m • ARKLEY LÜRSSEN 60.00m • VECTOR BENET TI 57.00M ASTRA AMELS 55.00m • LILI AMELS 55.00m • APOLLO AMELS 54.00m • BEL ABRI AMELS 52.00m • PROJECT 455 AMELS 52.00m • ELSEA CCN 50.00M PUMPKIN OVERMARINE 50.00m • RUSH OVERMARINE 50.00m • OKKO MONDOMARINE 41.00m • MANIFIQ MONDOMARINE 41.00m • FLYING FISH PRINCESS YACHTS 40.00m

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

13

* I M P E R I A L YAC H T L E N G T H S BY P R O P O R T I O N UNDER 50m 57% 50–79m 28% 80–99m 5% 10 0 m + 10 % A L L D A T A I S C O R R E C T U P T O 2 018 & D O E S N O T I N C L U D E O N G O I N G S U P E R YA C H T P R O J E C T S

...

...

Longstanding partnerships with some of Europe’s finest luxury shipyards have seen Imperial play a major role in the construction of some of the world’s most famous superyachts – and its burgeoning reputation is a direct result of an all-consuming dedication to the aspirations of the individual client.

It is easy to talk about attention to detail, but when you step aboard yachts of this extraordinary calibre, the merits of Imperial’s uniquely fastidious approach are palpable. The construction of the client’s ideal yacht is of course a very complex process but with Imperial, it is never a logistical inconvenience. On the contrary, by creating, growing and giving life to each project, our clients enjoy the benefits of our 360-degree approach right from day one. ...

01 The 135m PROJECT SHU, under construction with Lürssen

176 •

By deploying an entire team of experienced professionals at the chosen shipyard to monitor and oversee every aspect of the construction, it has generated some true landmark vessels - like EVENT (Amels 60m) and ARKLEY (Lürssen 60m), both of which won World Superyacht Awards; like ASTRA (Amels 55m), LILI (Amels 55m), SUPPORT VESSEL 6711 (Damen 67m) and PROJECT 783 (Nobiskrug 73.5m); like RoMEA (Abeking & Rasmussen 81.8m), AMORE VERO (Oceanco 86m) and the various megayacht projects currently underway.

17 7

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C T O R Y 2 019

S EE RWV ICCOE N S STRUCTION N N EE LWI V CE ROENDS TP RR U I OT N D OCJ ET C S

02

T

H

E

B

U

I

L

...

T H E P R O J E C T ’S I N C E P T I O N

At the heart of every new build project is a set of key decisions. Does the client intend to cross the Atlantic or island-hop among the tightly packed archipelagos of the Mediterranean? What about the performance, the sleeping capacity and his priorities for the living spaces? Once the client has worked through these central questions, his Imperial broker will select the designer and builder best suited to his needs and assemble a highly experienced team to help manage and complete his dream project.

I M P E R I A L ’S R O L E

Imperial protects the future owner’s interests by acting both as the Construction Manager and the Owner’s Representative. Each new project is allocated a set of designated professionals: a Project Manager, based at the chosen yard, to supervise construction on a day-to-day basis and to keep the build on schedule; a Build Engineer, Electrical & Electronics Engineer and Interior Quality Manager to implement internal design and take charge of each detail of the fit-out; a Financial Manager to keep control of finances and to compile regular budget reports for the client; and a Build Captain and Build Engineer to oversee the final stages of construction and to bring the yacht into operation. Throughout the entire process, Imperial’s teams keep a tight grip on the quality, the timeline and the expenses to ensure that all elements of the build surpass the client’s expectations.

DESIGN & BUILD

Imperial works with some of the finest designers and shipyards of the modern age - from the celebrated minds of Espen Oeino, Tim Heywood, Laura Sessa, François Zuretti, Terence Disdale and Mark Berryman to famed superyacht builders like Lürssen, Blohm & Voss, Nobiskrug, Abeking & Rasmussen, Oceanco and Amels.

The client’s personal ambitions will help define the most effective combination of designer and builder, but whatever kind of yachting he enjoys, he can rest assured that the people who create his dream will share Imperial’s passion for superyachts – right down to the last exquisite detail.

D

P

R

O

C

E

S

S

...

CLIENT COLLABORATION

While Imperial is fully content to take charge of the entire process, the client can of course be as involved as he likes. He can have full access to the technical elements and a central role in every decision making process; or he can step back and let the Imperial team take care of the finer details. Either way, he will still receive regular reports to keep him abreast of all key events, including progress with build and developments with design, as well as regular financial breakdowns.

F U L L - PA C K A G E S E R V I C E S

Imperial offers a through-life management service encompassing everything required for enjoyable and problem-free yacht ownership. From finance, design and construction through to crew, charter, marketing and eventual sale, Imperial’s full-spectrum infrastructure is designed to take care of it. All the owner has to do is relax and enjoy. ...

02 03 04 05 06 07

Secret 130m project, under construction with Lürssen M/Y AMADEA, Lürssen 106m Upper decks of M/Y AMADEA M/Y EVENT, Amels 60m PROJECT VECTOR 57m, under construction AMORE VERO 86m, under construction at Oceanco

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

03

04

05

06

07

178 â&#x20AC;¢ 17 9

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SERVICES SALE & PURCHASE

01

02

...

SALE + PURCHASE

...

...

Imperial has been involved in some of the most notable superyacht sales of the last ten years. Particular highlights include MANIFIQ (Mondomarine 40.5m), ELSEA (Italyachts 43m), ARIADNA (Heesen 47m), BEL ABRI (Amels 52m), KISS THE SKY (Amels 52m), ASTRA (Amels 55m), LILI (Amels 55m), ARKLEY (Lürssen 60m), EVENT (Amels 60m), SUPPORT VESSEL 6711 (Damen 67m), PROJECT 783 (Nobiskrug 73.5m), RoMEA (Abeking & Rasmussen 81.8m) and AMORE VERO (Oceanco 86m).

The reason for success on this scale is Imperial’s recognition that buying and selling yachts is about much more than just business transactions. For brokerage craft, just as for new builds, sourcing, inspecting, promoting and finalising a deal on a major luxury item like a yacht is a highly personal matter. It requires a clear understanding of the client’s wishes, a rigorous grasp of market realities and the utmost discretion. Only with these things in place can you be assured of the right yacht, the best deal and the most positive experience.

With a global reach, encompassing every one of the world’s most vital superyacht heartlands, Imperial is well placed to represent buyers and sellers from any country in the world. Whether you are looking to secure your first yacht, sell your existing vessel or upgrade to something larger, you can trust that Imperial has the professionals in place to handle the job.

WHY CHOOSE IMPERIAL?

• Imperial’s network includes close partnerships with some of the superyacht industry’s

most influential players, as well as high-value buyers and sellers throughout the globe.

• Imperial has a proven track record in buying and selling both new build and brokerage craft, from as little as 30 metres to well beyond 80 metres.

• A team of surveyors investigates every aspect of a yacht’s condition, ensuring that each Imperial client is fully acquainted with a vessel’s true state and market value.

• Imperial uses highly experienced brokers with real-time knowledge of the global fleet, ensuring that the client’s brief is satisfied with the utmost speed and efficiency.

• An extensive marketing network, allied to coverage in magazines, on targeted websites and at prestigious yachting events, guarantees worldwide exposure for the seller and extensive choice for the buyer.

• With its exclusive range of locations and its ability to negotiate the best deal, Imperial is well equipped to source the perfect mooring, as well as the perfect yacht.

• A full set of financial, advisory and legal services helps ensure the completion of a deal without error, discrepancy or delay.

• Imperial’s full-spectrum service also encompasses design, construction, finance, crew, charter, marketing and management. That enables us to provide a full superyacht support package, however elevated your ambitions become.

...

01 PROJECT 783, Nobiskrug 73.5m 02 SUPPORT VESSEL 6711, Damen 67m 03 M/Y EVENT, Amels 60m 04 M/Y RoMEA, Abeking & Rasmussen 81.8m 05 M/Y ARKLEY, Lürssen 60m 06 M/Y ASTRA, Amels 55m 07 M/Y LILI, Amels 55m

IMPERIAL SALES HIGHLIGHTS ...

AMORE VERO O C E A N C O 8 6 M • RoMEA A B E K I N G & R A S M U S S E N 81 . 8 M • PROJECT 783 N O B I S K R U G 7 3 . 5 M SUPPORT VESSEL 6711 D A M E N 6 7 M • EVENT A M E L S 6 0 M • ARKLEY L Ü R S S E N 6 0 M • ASTR A A M E L S 5 5 M • LILI A M E L S 5 5 M BEL ABRI A M E L S 5 2 M • ARIADNA H E E S E N 4 7 M • ELSEA I T A L Y A C H T S 4 3 M • MANIFIQ M O N D O M A R I N E 4 0 . 5 M

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

03

04

06

05

07

18 0 â&#x20AC;¢ 181

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SERVICES YACHT MANAGEMENT

...

YAC H T M A N AG E M E N T ...

With six specialist teams allocated to each and every yacht, Imperial’s 360-degree Global Superyacht Management Service is perfectly set up to help you relax and enjoy your investment. In addition to worldwide, 24-hour, year-round support, every technical, practical and logistical issue is covered. From expense control to crew recruitment and training; from yacht maintenance to compliance and safety; and from marketing to charter, finance and insurance, Imperial takes charge of every element with patience, expertise and discretion.

FIRST-CLASS CREW

In addition to appointing only the most experienced Captains and crew, Imperial conducts year-round training programmes to keep all personnel at prime capability.

Contracts and confidentiality agreements are drawn up and a dynamic ‘Crew Management Service’ encompassing a network of proven candidates ensures that Imperial can act with immediate effect to any urgent demands. With a 98% satisfaction rate for all crew placed on board yachts under our management, it is one of the industry’s most effective systems.

D AY - T O - D AY O P E R A T I O N S

Whether for charter, for sale or for a fastidious owner who needs to know that his yacht is in a full state of readiness, Imperial’s operational management expertise is a vital asset. The Technical Manager provides support and assistance to the engineers, Captains and deck crew in order to coordinate and supervise maintenance, as well as undertake refit work and class and flag surveys; the Interior Manager helps keep housekeeping, crew training, safety drills and service standards up to scratch; and the Operational Manager takes charge of all maintenance schedules and technical tasks, as well as provisioning, berthing, fuelling and passage-making. With responsibility for the yacht’s daily operations, including quality control, shoreside support and all logistical considerations, this seasoned marine professional can resolve any yachtrelated issue, at any time of year and in any part of the world.

INTERNAL TRAINING

All Imperial crew is trained to meet the company’s stringent internal standards.

Rigorous safety procedures lie at the very heart of that – and as well as extensive instruction on the proper use of all marine and watersports equipment, training programs include regular drills for practical safety, emergency response and first-aid.

P R OJ E C T M A N AG E M E N T

Imperial is able to provide support and assistance at every step of a project, from global management to complete vessel refit. Whether a yacht was built under Imperial supervision or not, the company’s extensive construction portfolio, allied to its specialist shipyard-based teams, ensures a bespoke service, rigorously in line with briefs, schedules and budgets.

...

FINANCE & REGISTRATION

Maritime regulations vary throughout the world, according to yacht size, homeport, ownership and registration, so compliance requires expert knowledge. Imperial is meticulous in ensuring that yachts under its care are properly registered, with appropriate VAT status and the correct documents, so you will always pass customs inspections, whatever the jurisdiction. Imperial also enjoys established relationships with companies and brokers who specialise in superyacht insurance, so it is well placed to source the best provider, negotiate the right rate and ensure that, in the event of damage or loss, all elements of your contract are properly observed.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

While some owners are keen to generate charter income from their yachts, others prefer to reserve them for private entertainment. Either way, Imperial puts precise protocols in place to govern how your vessel operates on a day-to-day basis and a designated Financial Manager is a key part of that. In addition to organising budgets and accounts, checking component orders and paying invoices, the Financial Manager prepares regular financial reports for the owner, providing a clear picture of a yacht’s running costs and avoiding any unnecessary expenses. Payroll, compliance and safety issues are taken care of and Imperial can also organise export finance and yacht leasing in association with leading financial institutions like BNP Paribas, ING and UBS. THE IMPERIAL DIFFERENCE • Imperial’s in-house ‘Operational Manual’ puts stringent safety standards at the

very heart of the superyacht experience.

• The online administration programme keeps the superyacht owner firmly in control.

• All yacht-related expenses are carefully coordinated and controlled by a dedicated Financial Manager.

• All technical and practical issues are addressed directly by the yacht’s Operational Manager.

• Imperial’s crew are highly experienced professionals, primed with year-round internal training programmes.

• All yachts are rigorously maintained and kept in a state of perpetual readiness.

• Imperial backup is on hand 24 hours a day, every day, all year round and in all parts of the world.

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

18 2 â&#x20AC;¢ 18 3

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

SERVICES YACHT MARKETING

...

YAC H T M A R K E T I N G ...

...

Selling your yacht and offering it for charter require two very different skillsets – but whichever you have in mind, Imperial has the experience, the contacts, the personnel and the approach to present it in the best way to the best audience.

What makes Imperial’s marketing team so effective?

• A powerful presence at international boat shows, including Monaco, Cannes, Barcelona, Dubai, Singapore, Fort Lauderdale and Antigua.

• Ads and editorial in prestigious yachting magazines, including Boat International, Yachts International, The Superyacht Report, Superyacht Times, Superyacht World, Centurion Magazine, Departures; and in Russian publications such as Motor Boat and Yachting Russia, Yachting Russia, Sea Trial, Forbes Russia and Aeroflot Premium.

• Exposure through high-end online platforms, including Superyachts.com, Boatinternational.com, Superyachts.com, Superyachtnews.com, Superyachttimes.com, Superyachtworld.com, Yachtharbour.com, the Robb Report, Forbes.ru, RBC.ru and social media promotions, as well as through Imperial’s own purpose-built website.

• Imperial’s Charter Directory, delivered to a targeted readership, either directly on board a client’s vessel or via select, high-end outlets in Russia, London, Switzerland, Sardinia and the French Riviera.

• A flexible approach, offering everything from full-scale, multi-platform exposure to discrete one-to-one negotiations.

• Experienced charter and sales brokers, who can formulate bespoke campaigns, answer questions and conduct tours on your behalf.

• Imperial’s cutting-edge website: not an inflexible template but a bespoke marketing solution with customisable research tools and high-value, vessel-specific content.

• A first-class headquarters in the heart of Monaco, which ably reflects the calibre of Imperial’s work and its impeccable industry stature.

SALES MARKETING

Imperial’s ingrained flexibility ensures that each client and each vessel is treated to a carefully tailored marketing campaign. For instance, if a yacht sale requires blanket discretion, publicity can be entirely avoided, with all marketing activities conducted on a private, one-to-one basis. But with its multi-platform resources, Imperial is also able to call upon an enviable range of high-profile assets – from a presence at the key international yacht shows to advertising and press articles in targeted magazines and direct communications via a global network of industry contacts and international clients.

CHARTER MARKE TING

Imperial’s Charter Marketing Service is designed to achieve maximum charter income for yacht owners. In addition to extensive coverage in relevant print and online platforms, including Imperial’s own interactive website, the company’s Charter Directory is also distributed through some very powerful, high-yield channels. Again, however, Imperial’s approach remains flexible. If a client wants to pursue end-to-end bookings throughout the year, that can be done, but if he prefers to set aside specific periods for personal use, the charter schedule can be arranged to encompass his preferences.

Y O U R YA C H T : O U R P R I O R I T Y

As true experts of the superyacht industry with an extensive sales portfolio, numerous award-winning vessels and a varied global charter fleet, Imperial follows precise protocols to maximise visibility of your vessel and obtain the most productive leads possible. Whatever kind of approach your yacht demands, the modus operandi of Imperial’s marketing department is not the brushstroke guesswork of a bulk operator.

It is the targeted, vessel-specific strategy of a team well versed in the nuances of the international superyacht market.

IMPERIAL -YACHTS.COM

MONACO +377 97 98 38 80 MOSCOW +7 985 99 77 300

july/August 2016

The LargesT YachTs in The WorLd

Bringing the World to the American Yachtsman

The

Top abeking & rasmussen Romea

6 Can’t Miss Cruising Destinations yACHts INtERNAtIONAl

The BesT of

supersail 2016

VOl. 20 NO. 4

The ulTimaTe Toy lighT sporT aircrafT for yachTs

Display Until August 23, 2016

ASIA’S AWARD WINNING YACHTING LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

THE BIGGEST ISSUE EVER

EXCLUSIVE REVIEWS: PHILIPPINES SUNSEEKER 95 AMELS LILI CRUISES ASIA HEESEN BOOK ENDS DEBUT LÜRSSEN SALES & REFITS

18 4

THE 2018 CHARTER ISSUE

SHIPYARD REVIEW: THE ITALIAN SEA GROUP

•

INTERVIEW: FRANCIS LAPP, CEO, SUNREEF YACHTS GOLDEN GLOBE 50TH RETRO RACE

ISSUE 42

EDITH HO’S “GALLERY DES ARTISTES” AMELS 180’ LILI

18 5

HONG KONG: HKD80 SINGAPORE: SGD12 MALAYSIA: MYR32 THAILAND: THB350 REST OF THE WORLD: USD12

IMPERIAL C H A R T E R D I R E C TO RY 2019

A

NEW CONSTRUCTION DELIVERED PROJECTS

C

L

I

E

N

T

-

D

R

I

V

E

N

C

H

A

R

T

E

R

E

X

P

E

R

I

E

N

C

E

...

...

At Imperial, we are known for offering our guests the world’s finest superyachts, for crewing them with the industry’s most capable professionals and for deploying them among the planet’s most seductive cruising grounds.

By this means, we ensure that our guests receive not just an enjoyable charter, but a bespoke and rewarding experience, tailored exactly to their tastes and ambitions.

But that alone is not enough.

We also make sure that our multilingual in-house charter team has first-hand knowledge of even the most far-flung destinations, allied to an in-depth understanding of each and every yacht – and we consolidate all of that with a 24-hour concierge service, seven days a week, at any time of year and in any part of the world.

If you are thinking about chartering a yacht, tell us what you need and let us show you how your personal charter package might look. ...

C O N TAC T U S Imperial Ermanno Palace, 27 Boulevard Albert 1er, Mc 98000 Monaco Monaco +377 97 98 38 80 Moscow +7 985 99 77 300 Email monaco@imperial-yachts.com Website imperial-yachts.com

LUXURY

YACHTING

360°

Published by Imperial Yachts. Copyright Imperial Yachts 2019. All rights reserved. No unauthorised reproduction is permitted. All information contained in this publication is provided on an “as is” basis and Imperial Yachts makes no representations or warranties of any kind with respect to this publication or the accuracy, completeness or suitability for any purpose of the information published herein.

Imperial Yachts gives no guarantee or warranty as to the condition of any vessel and/or its possible operation or seaworthiness, and any prospective buyer should instruct his agents and/or surveyors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. All liability of Imperial Yachts howsoever arising for any such inaccuracies or errors is expressly excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law.