KNOW THE COM PL ETE YACHTING COMPANY, LEAD THE COMPLETE YACHTING LIFE
ISSUE 10 / 2014
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CONTENTS ISSUE 10 / 2014
Big expectations Over the past 10 issues of this magazine we have seen PrivatSea grow and evolve as a company into a complete yachting solution of management, brokerage, charter, construction and marine services. It’s been positive growth and change for PrivatSea during this time, alongside some interesting and challenging times in the yachting industry. As with many other luxury yacht specialists, PrivatSea’s major event of the year is the Monaco Yacht Show. It is always a great opportunity for us to analyse the market and set a realistic benchmark to forecast our expectations for the year ahead. For PrivatSea, the 2013 Monaco Yacht Show demonstrated strong and positive activity. The quality of visitors enquiring after PrivatSea’s services was outstanding, and the show generated great interest in our recently built new tender project and the sale of our flagship yacht, M/V Alexander. Over the past 12 months there has been a definite increase in activity across the board in the yachting industry, which has been reflected in the increasing supply of work going into our own shipyard facility and with the number of new clients to our management service. Yacht management is, of course, where PrivatSea first started some 30 years ago, under our former name, Sete Yachts. It’s no surprise then that our management division provides a VVIP service encompassing everything from administration, operations, insurance, crewing and repair services, to a diverse base of extremely discerning clients. Another interesting development noted has been in our charter bookings. Over the past 12 months we have seen a new sense of adventure amongst charter guests, and we expect the recent interest in ‘off the beaten track’ charters to continue through 2014. PrivatSea has capitalised on both the recent trend for pre-owned yachts and the trend in expedition-style charters and is delighted to offer M/Y Khozam for sale. Something else that we’ve become aware of is the importance our prospects and clients are now placing on good project management during new builds. PrivatSea’s recently commissioned limousine tender has generated a number of enquiries and the owner’s testimonial credited the construction management team for the success of the project. He said: “PrivatSea’s management team was crucial to the success of the construction. The designer, builder and manager understood the challenges perfectly and completely grasped my aspirations for the project. The whole process was smooth, well executed and completely stress free.” For enquiries on any aspect of yachting – management, construction, charter, brokerage, or for information on our berthing and repair facilities in Athens – contact us on info@privatsea.com. Lucinda Peranic Director of PrivatSea Client Services
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GUEST EDITOR'S LETTER PRIVATSEA NEWS PROJECT 95: FOR A SMARTER OWNER
T here is a wave of interest, and almost obsession by the world’s media, with who owns the largest, fastest and most expensive toys, assets, properties and fortunes. But in today’s new economy and putting wealth to one side, the next generation is all about being recognised for what you do and not by what you own.
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BEST KEPT SECRET ABOUT GREECE
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DOUBLE THE PLEASURE
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LADY MARIPOSA
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LITTLE BLACK BOOK: ANTIGUA
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EDITOR’S PICK
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SHARKWATER
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PERSONAL TASTES BEST
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CHILLING OUT
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PASSPORT
Half an hour shuttle by helicopter brings guests from the Greek capital of Athens to the best-kept secret in the Aegean, the magical Greek triangle of Porto Heli, Spetses and Hydra.
P rivatSea partners with luxury villas and private residences around the world to enhance the yachting experience and extend your holiday on land.
The perfect stepping stone yacht, Lady Mariposa is a masterful design that is small enough for easy handling and access to shallow anchorages, but with all the comfort and volume of a superyacht.
ozing maritime history and Caribbean charm, O Antigua is the immaculately sculpted gateway to the Leeward Islands and one of the Caribbean’s most colourful characters, with an intoxicating palette of azure waters, brightly painted clapboard houses and lush rainforest-clad peaks.
is ‘n hers must-have accessories for the ultimate H yachting experience.
In the spectacular Scottish Hebrides, Shane Wasik is taking adventure seekers into the water to swim with teeming schools of the second-biggest shark in the world. Luckily, the whisky is close at hand.
L uxury yacht? Check! Waterfront mansion? Check! Private jet? Check! What’s missing is your personal helicopter, exotic car, or luxury tender.
Invariably, the visions conjured of superyachts and deserted islands with pristine beaches and turquoise waters feature palm trees, tropical fish and sunshine. However, what about combining these elements with icebergs, penguins and down jackets?
P orem eicaeseque num quuntot atusaperum enihit, quae im fuga. Ut quaesti atibus plaudi od qui re, cum dolo blaborum iduciis quibuscietur a samus ernatem voluptae non rest, quam sume venimus.
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GUEST EDITOR’S LETTER MARTIN H. REDMAYNE
GUEST EDITOR Martin H. Redmayne COMMISSIONING EDITOR & PROJECT MANAGER Lauren Barker CREATIVE DIRECTION Gareth Procter 0208K045A0185900
DESIGN Stefanie Hedermann
TOP RESIDENC(6 ǩ 7OP RESIDEN&(6 ǩ 7OP RESIDENC(6 ǩ 7OP RESIDENCES
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TOP RESIDENCES TOP RESIDENCES
Owners Edition 2014 Issue 2
GLP
T O P
CONTRIBUTORS Ellie Brade, Chris Caswell, Lisa Freedman, Don Hoyt Gorman, Kate Hubert, Scott Manson, Cornelia Marioglou and Felix Milns.
What can you give back to the community and what can you change about the environment you’re in? All of this is the future of conspicuous contribution, rather than consumption. This revolves around buying a big old yacht like M/Y Khozam and changing its function and purpose to deliver a brilliant platform for fun and escape, but with the opportunity to do something good at the same time. The future of yachting is about feeling good about what you’re doing, while having a good time - it's the smart way. Martin H. Redmayne Guest editor
PUBLISHED BY The Superyacht Agency 3-7 Northcote Road London, SW11 1NG T: +44 (0)20 7801 1021 E: hello@thesuperyachtagency.com www.thesuperyachtagency.com
R E S I D E N C E S
GUESTS
SALES MANAGER Stephanie Wink stephanie@thesuperyachtgroup.com T: +44 (0)20 7801 1018
In today’s world, everyone is seeking smart solutions, smart ideas and smart ways to do things differently. The days of conspicuous consumption or excessive displays of wealth are diminishing in a way that ultra high net worth owners are more focused on doing intelligent things with their time, to get the most out of life and living. It is not about how expensive something is, but more about the value of an experience or a journey. It is no longer about being the biggest or fastest, but perhaps more about how positive a contribution you make or how responsible the process is. Buying a large yacht or renting a vast villa is still acceptable, but perhaps there’s a new way of doing it.
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HEAD OFFICE PrivatSea 9 Little St. James's Street London, SW1A 1DP T: +44 (0)20 7396 5460 E: info@privatsea.com PRINTED BY Park Communications
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L AG O N I SS I www.grandresort.gr 7
Now is the time to invest in luxury real estate
PRIVATSEA NEWS PEOPLE A ND PA RTNERSHIPS
M/V alexander for sale
New tender exceeds owner’s expectations
Boutique luxury real estate consultants Cote d’Azur • Marbella • Miami 186 Sloane Street, London, SW1X 9QR www.ciloprimerealty.com
In 2013, PrivatSea unveiled its latest new build project – a stunning custom-made tender, built to the specific needs of a private yacht owner. The 8m tender was designed and built to a detailed brief. The owner’s initial desire was for a closed, air-conditioned limousine tender that was suitable for day trips, including swimming and watersports, and nightlife excursions. Both the interior and exterior styling also had to conform closely to the primary yacht’s design. This was an ambitious brief with restrictions already placed on the tender’s size and weight by the storage capability of its yacht and the safe weight load capacity of the crane. There was no ‘off the shelf’ tender that could meet these restrictions, however, PrivatSea designed and created a beautiful tender that has exceeded the owner’s expectations. With careful detail to visual planning, the interior colour scheme of the tender perfectly mirrors the ambience of the primary yacht. Inside is a beautiful, spacious and ergonomically designed cabin which seats 10 passengers – and although fully air conditioned as per the owner’s brief, the roofline cleverly lifts to allow an open flow-through of fresh air if, and when, desired. The vertically rising roof also allows easy contact to the outside, with intercom communication directly from the interior cabin to the helm. On the water, this is a beautiful and distinct tender and, as expected, the exterior lines and colour schemes are a perfect fit with the yacht. The cleverly considered tinted windows blend seamlessly into the
tender’s roofline – the visual effect is stunning but the design was also a practical decision to provide privacy for guests and protection against strong sunlight. A lifting roof hatch allows easy access to the cabin with guests able to stand comfortably when descending to the seating area, and the specially designed aft platform allows easy, safe access from the primary yacht’s swim platform, as well as from most piers and marinas. Powered by two efficient and compact inboardoutboard engines, the tender can reach an impressive speed of 35 knots, and with its 180-litre fuel tank, the tender can cover a range of 100 miles when travelling at 20 knots. The tender has also been carefully designed to ensure zero water spray with the roof either open or closed. For more information on PrivatSea’s design and build services, contact info@privatsea.com
Despite recent trends towards the ultra wealthy to build the biggest yacht, the longest yacht, the most interesting or the most ostentatious yacht – there is no modern superyacht on the market that can match the celebrity or significant history of M/V Alexander. At 122m, Alexander is ranked 16th on the list of the world’s largest yachts. She boasts impressive onboard facilities, including a swimming pool, spa pool, gymnasium, disco bar, 27-seat cinema, children’s playroom, beauty salon, helipad and mini hospital. Built in Germany in 1966 by Flender Werft in Lübeck, she was originally the passenger vessel Regina Maris for the Lübeck Line. After several changes of ownership, she was converted into a private yacht and renamed Alexander. She carries a wide range of tenders and water toys and is the perfect yacht for large families or corporate groups. Extensively refitted in 1985 and again in 1998 and 2012, she offers luxurious accommodation for up to 60 guests, with virtually one-on-one service from 60 crew. The guest accommodation is impressive and includes a master suite with bedroom, bathroom with Jacuzzi, a salon and dressing room; 14 two-bedroom suites, four double staterooms, seven twin staterooms and two single staterooms. However, perhaps what sets Alexander apart from most yachts in the world is her remarkable guest history. Over the years she has hosted many important and influential characters; royalty, rock stars, Hollywood legends, heads of state and VIPs have all graced her decks. PrivatSea are proud to be offering for sale one of the most prestigious yachts in the world. Inspections of Alexander are welcome. Price upon request. All enquiries to info@privatsea.com
info@ciloprimerealty.com +44 207 754 9157
>> For more information on any of PrivatSea’s partner services and benefits, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 9
PRIVATSEA NEWS
More luxury. More Destinations.
PEOPLE A ND PA RTNERSHIPS
Marine Services annual report
A buoyant outlook The 23rd Monaco Yacht show took place at Port Hercules last September, showing the industry to be in a buoyant mood. PrivatSea reported a good footfall of visitors with a genuine interest in its charter, brokerage and management divisions. There was, as expected, a great interest in the sale of PrivatSea’s flagship, the 122m M/V Alexander, with inspections booked during the yacht show. PrivatSea also conducted a number of tours for its charter clients around some of the yachts exhibiting at the yacht show for potential charters in the 2014 season. A number of build enquiries were also generated at the show following the presentation of PrivatSea’s latest build project – a bespoke limousine tender. The 2014 Monaco Yacht Show will take place from September 24-27, and PrivatSea will again be located in the Parvis Piscine tent.
Ice queen for sale
PrivatSea are offering for sale one of the most unique yachts currently on the open market. With a rich and colourful history, the 77m M/Y Khozam began life as an ocean-going salvage tug. She was launched in Bremerhaven in 1974, named Vulkan, and a year later delivered to Hamburg and renamed Atlantic. In 1994 she underwent impressive major works in Greece, where she was converted into the private yacht, Khozam. Until her recent retirement, Khozam’s main function has been as a support vessel to a VIP yacht, providing luxury accommodation for staff and personnel. With extraordinary capabilities – she’s ice-class, incredibly strong and well built, and able to sail any ocean – Khozam is the perfect yacht for the adventurous owner. Cruising possibilities aboard Khozam are endless, from cruising the North or South Poles to crossing major oceans, all the while turning heads with her distinctive style and arousing curiosity amongst yacht enthusiasts.
Khozam’s sistership, M/Y Lone Ranger, has circumnavigated every corner of the globe on her travels, including Antarctica, the Pacific, New Zealand, Australia, Micronesia, the Galapagos Islands, the Norweigan Fjords, Greenland, Russia, Cocos Islands, The Caymans, Rio and the Maldives, as well as the traditional routes of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, becoming a celebrity vessel in ports around the world. These are the world tours and recognition that Khozam is open to discover under new ownership. Although she was converted into a private vessel in 1994, PrivatSea are selling Khozam as a project. In addition to refit work, exterior painting and general restoration, there is exciting project work needed to realise her full potential. PrivatSea has already drawn up conversion ideas and plans for improving the ship’s internal layout and deck areas and would be able to undertake as much or as little of the refit and conversion works as necessary at its marine services facility in Athens. To read more about this extraordinary vessel, see the full feature on Khozam on page 19. Inspections are welcome, price upon request. Enquiries to info@privatsea.com
PrivatSea Marine Services is one of the largest yacht repair facilities in the Eastern Mediterranean with 1,500m of docks and piers, and 15,000sq m of buildings and structures on 88,000sq m of land. Located in Elefsis, 25km southwest of Athens, the facility provides mooring and berthing facilities for large yachts up to 200m with a maximum draft capacity of 20m. On site there is vehicle access to vessels, power, telecommunications, water, waste, fuel, storage, office space and 24-hour security and CCTV. 2013 was another busy year for PrivatSea Marine Services. An imposing 139m motoryacht by Lurssen was the largest yacht to visit the facilities. She is currently ranked as the seventh largest top-class yacht in the world and was berthed alongside to perform electrical, electronic and engine-related maintenance works.
NAVARiNO DuNES, cOSTA NAVARiNO
Inviting luxury and authentic Messinian hospitality Overlooking the ionian Sea, The Romanos, a luxury collection Resort and The Westin Resort costa Navarino welcome you to experience a memorable holiday escape at the new prime destination in the Mediterranean. Explore exciting relaxation and entertainment possibilities, including two signature golf courses, a 4000m2 Anazoe Spa offering unique oleotherapy® treatments, an elite selection of venues with international and local flavors, amazing children facilities, multiple outdoor activities, local events and many historic landmarks. For more information or to make a reservation visit romanoscostanavarino.com, westincostanavarino.com or call +30 27230 97000 THE ROMANOS, A luxuRy cOllEcTiON RESORT THE WESTiN RESORT cOSTA NAVARiNO
A steady stream of motoryachts from 45m to 125m visited the facilities during 2013 for regular maintenance, engine, electrical and mechanical works, external painting, as well as for winterisation. Among the many other worthy yachts that visited was M/Y Sapphire, a 62m motoryacht by Nobiskrug. She was berthed alongside to perform external painting and other electro mechanical maintenance works. And another 49m motoryacht was berthed alongside to perform mechanical works, regular maintenance as well as external painting. The facility operates under ISO 9001:2000, ISO 14001:2004, fulfil OHSAS 18001 requirements for health and safety as certified by BVQI, is subject to ISPS standards and is licensed as a tax-free zone. For more information contact info@privatseamarine.com The WesTin resorT CosTa navarino μη.τ.ε.: 1249K045a0159601 The romanos resorT μη.τ.ε.: 1249K045a0159501
>> For more information on any of PrivatSea’s partner services and benefits, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 10
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PRIVATSEA NEWS
PRIVATSEA NEWS
PEOPLE A ND PA RTNERSHIPS
MY PRIVATE VILLAS PrivatSea clients will benefit from the best available rate when booking a holiday property through My Private Villas. Not a typical villa rental agency, My Private Villas operates as a club of private owners who wish to offer their villas directly to discerning guests. By booking directly with property owners, guests are assured of greater flexibility and personal attention in all aspects of their stay. A team of club managers oversee the booking process and local house managers look after each property and provide guests with a concierge service during their stay. With a unique collection of luxury homes in Italy, France, Greece, Switzerland and Spain, you will find villas by the sea, in the mountains, by lakes and in some of Europe’s most beautiful cities. As you would expect, all properties are beautifully furnished, have home office facilities and offer a range of services enabling guests to fully relax. Standard services can include daily maid service, groceries on arrival or a chef. Your concierge can also organise a range of additional services on your behalf such as chauffeurs, nannies, spa treatments, photographers, yoga and boat hire. www.myprivatevillas.com
Art de Vivre Art de Vivre has launched a new concept in designer homes and luxury villa rentals, and this exclusive property collection will be available to PrivatSea clients. Described by company founder Julie Gauthier as “a fresh collection for those who think differently”, the Art de Vivre collection showcases some of the rarest contemporary architect-designed private villas and chalets for rental all over the world. Art and design is at the heart of each property and many of the homes also house the superb art collections of their philanthropic owners.
Homes have been sourced for the collection worldwide, with properties available throughout Europe, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Asia, the Americas and the Caribbean. And with some properties having up to 16 bedrooms, the venues are suitable for special celebrations, corporate retreats, and of course, short breaks and longer holidays. Rentals vary depending on location and occupancy, but a typical booking is approximately 47,765 euros per week. All Privatsea clients will receive special added benefits when making a booking. www.artdevivre-collection.com
Simple insurance for busy people PrivatSea partner, La Playa Insurance, has launched a new Portfolio Policy which is an ideal insurance solution for the busy individual who juggles multiple homes, time on board a yacht, a busy social life and a career. La Playa, specialists in insurance cover for HNWIs, has outlined the importance of domestic staff cover for both onshore and offshore scenarios. Its new high net worth Portfolio Policies are great news for busy families with a need to cover yachts, households and domestic staff. The new portfolios allow an individual to insure homes worldwide, cars,
yachts and rental properties as one solution – with one renewal date and one point of contact. Mike Taylor-West of La Playa Insurance says: “With family, staff and belongings spread across several properties and vessels, this can really simplify matters.” He adds, “But it’s important to get the right policy – especially with domestic staff to consider. Insurance isn’t the most fragrant of topics – but you do have certain duties. Make sure you have a specialist high net worth policy designed for the modern affluent – and take a few
minutes to check it over for clauses such as who’s insured and what levels of cover you have – especially for liabilities, employer’s liability, legal expenses cover, travel insurance and public liability." La Playa is offering PrivatSea readers complimentary legal expenses cover with their home insurance. Please mention PrivatSea when arranging your quotation. La Playa is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. www.laplayainsurance.com
Maison D. Porthault D. Porthault is one of the most prestigious creators of fine linens in the world. From its humble beginnings in a small lingerie boutique in Paris in 1920, D. Porthault was creating custom linens for the Elysees Palace, Buckingham Palace and the White House. The company is now a worldwide supplier of luxury linens to the world’s most exclusive hotels and departments stores such as The Ritz, Bergdorf Goodman and Harrods. Luxury linens are a must-have on any yacht, and with this in mind, PrivatSea has created a new partnership with Maison D. Porthault. Our clients may access the Porthault collection at special rates with certification that each piece is unique. PrivatSea clients will also receive a gift with every purchase over 2,000 euros and have privileged access to the Porthault showroom and shop (Paris, Harrods) and private sales. www.dporthaultparis.com
Domaine de Luxe
Since the early 1900s, the south coasts of France and Spain have been synonymous with elegance, luxury and the most exclusive society. PrivatSea partner, Domaine de Luxe, is the epitome of everything these locations have to offer, with two exquisite villas in St Jean Cap Ferrat and St Tropez, and an elegant 30m motor yacht berthed in Monaco. Plus, this year Domaine de Luxe are delighted to have added three exclusive properties in Marbella to their portfolio. Each Domaine de Luxe property is spacious and well-appointed with all the amenities one might expect, and staff are trained to anticipate a guests every need and provide the best possible service. The villas benefit from beautifully manicured private gardens, pools and terraces to relax in, along with onsite staff including chefs, waiting staff and security as standard.
The most popular property in the Domaine de Luxe portfolio is the exquisite Chateau St Tropez, a belle époque villa nestled in an oasis of palm trees and manicured gardens in the most exclusive of destinations. Just five minutes walk from the picturesque village, harbour and beach, the choice is simply between relaxing by the pool or visiting the elite clubs of St Tropez. Whether guests want to experience the quiet and calm of the Riviera, to see and be seen in the clubs of St Tropez or Marbella or simply to cruise between the two, Domaine de Luxe has something that will satisfy even the most discerning traveller. www.domainedeluxe.com
>> For more information on any of PrivatSea’s partner services and benefits, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 12
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PRIVATSEA NEWS
PRIVATSEA NEWS
YACHTS & ITINERARIES — PRIVATSEA RECOMMENDS
M ⁄ V TURAMA
ITINERARIES: DUBAI AND THE MIDDLE EAST – 8 DAYS ABOARD M/V TURAMA
LENGTH: 117.3M BEAM: 17.22M DRAFT: 4.6M YEAR: 1990, CONVERTED 2004 BUILDER: RAUMA YARD, FINLAND FLAG: MALTA GUESTS: 60 CABINS: 43 CRUISING SPEED: 14 KNOTS
PrivatSea’s M/V Turama is an outstanding pedigree yacht, ideal for entertaining large groups of friends, family or clients in the grandest style. At 117m, and equipped with the latest technologies, this beautiful, spacious and contemporary yacht is the perfect corporate retreat, providing an outstanding venue for business. The beauty of Turama is that she’s adaptable – a wonderful environment for business, and pleasure. Whether it’s corporate parties, business meetings or family functions, Turama is suited to large-scale gatherings, but she is also adaptable enough in terms of her space and amenities to host family groups on an intimate level. Her contemporary décor creates a feeling of light and space throughout the luxurious interior. She offers accommodation for 60 guests in 43 wellappointed staterooms – all of which feature the finest woods and exquisite materials in relaxing colour palettes of earthy creams splashed with rich reds and browns. An incredible 200m2 master suite has complete privacy on the upper deck and boasts wall-to-wall windows with views over the open sea. There are separate his and hers bathrooms complete with Jacuzzi and a separate dressing area. Within the master suite there is also a study area with ensuite, breakfast area, sitting area and a private sun deck with its own outdoor Jacuzzi. Two junior master suites offer equally luxurious accommodation and comprise one twin and one double ensuite bedroom >> For charter enquiries, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 14
Dubai
Start your adventure from one of the most glamorous marinas in the world, Yas Marinas, and add excitement with the F1 Grand Prix or a 4x4 desert safari, shop 'til you drop at the many malls or relax on the yacht while you take in the sights, including the beauty of the Musandem Peninsula.
with dressing rooms and a spacious sitting area, there are a further 24 luxury suites (15 doubles and 9 twins) each with marble ensuite with Jacuzzi, and 16 first-class single ensuite cabins. All staterooms naturally offer state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Turama’s onboard facilities are extensive and dedicated to her guests’ enjoyment. The beautiful main salon features a grand piano, dance floor and large plasma TV. The 12-seat private cinema is multi functional – in addition to being used for film screenings it can also be used as a conference room. There is a further conference theatre that seats up to 60 guests and includes a spacious exhibition area and multi-media projection system. Guests may also enjoy an internet café (although wifi is available throughout the yacht), a children’s playroom, espresso café, gymnasium and there are wave runners for the water sports enthusiasts.
Guests can enjoy meals in the formal dining room or in a more relaxed alfresco style on the aft deck, while the piano bar is the perfect after-dinner retreat to finish the evening with a glass of cognac. On deck, a swimming pool, sun decks and two Jacuzzi tubs are the perfect invitation to enjoy outdoor living – and for further relaxation Turama boasts a sauna, beauty salon and massage and aromatherapy room. For guests wishing to arrive by air, there is a fully certified helipad. Turama was launched as a cruise ship in Finland in 1990, and was acquired by PrivatSea in 2004. She spent a year being redesigned and refitted at the PrivatSea Marine Services facility in Athens, making her the stunning private luxury vessel she is today. Turama typically cruises in the Mediterranean but recently enjoyed an incredible tailor-made cruise around the Middle East.
Day one Embark in the Yas Marina, a short drive from the airport in Abu Dhabi and one of the most modern and glamorous marinas in the world. If you charter in early November when the F1 Grand Prix is taking place, you will be rewarded with the best views of the race. Once settled on board, we recommend stepping ashore for a visit to Viceroy Yas Marina Hotel where you will find excellent bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may take dinner on the aft deck of the yacht and enjoy the views of the yachts in the marina. Day two After enjoying a leisurely al fresco breakfast, spend a few hours relaxing in the onboard pool and sun lounging areas while heading northeast to Dubai. As you approach Dubai, cruise around the extraordinary and unique developments – the islands of The World and The Palm, where the impressive Atlantis Palm Hotel & Resort sits. Anchor just off the Dubai Marine area, near to Dubai International Marine Club in Jumeira. In the evening you may choose to dine on board or step ashore and take a taxi into town and enjoy one of the many superb restaurants Dubai has to offer.
Day three If this is your first visit to Dubai we recommend you take advantage of a day to explore. This is a city that really bridges the traditions of the Middle East with the Western world. Perhaps take a 4×4 desert safari, go to the camel races, head for the malls, take a trip up Dubai Creek or go to the old town to see the gold souks, the spice market, and soak up traditional Dubai. There are also world-class golf courses. Alternatively, you may spend time exploring on the tender or relaxing on board. Day four Weigh anchor at daybreak and head northeast up the coast, past the lesser-known Emirates of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain and Ras al-Khaimah, to Oman and Musandam at the tip of the Arabian peninsular. Until now the coastal scenery has been fairly unexciting, but as you head northeast the scenery becomes more interesting. This is where the Eurasian and Arabian tectonic plates meet, and the resulting geological formations are magnificent – stratified cliffs thrust up from the seabed, bent and buckled by extraordinary forces. Rounding the tip of the peninsular, you will find yourselves in the Omani Harbour of Khasab, the end of the line for road traffic in this part of the world.
Day five Spend the morning exploring Khasab town and its wonderful fort. The town itself is quiet and sleepy, but the fort is fascinating and gives a rare glimpse of what life was like here several hundred years ago. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board, and in the afternoon head out into the fjords of Musandam Peninsular. Off the northeast corner of the peninsular are what appears to be a sprawl of islands, but they are one land mass attached to the Musandem by a 200-metre-wide isthmus. Although described as fjords, these flooded valleys and mountaintops are more reminiscent of the Dalmatian Islands in the Adriatic Sea than anything you’ll find in Norway or more northern latitudes. They are stunningly beautiful in a wild, inhospitable way. There are almost no signs of human habitation, except for a couple of tiny fishing villages, and the only signs of life you will see are the dolphins frolicking. Depending on weather conditions, the captain will find a quiet bay to anchor overnight. The night skies in this part of the world are sublime, clear and dark. Without any illuminations from artificial light it’s a rare view, so we recommend spending the evening stargazing from your sun lounger. Day six Spend a leisurely day relaxing and exploring – swim in the clear, crystal waters of your anchorage. There are dozens of sandy beaches, most of which you will have entirely to yourselves. You may come across the occasional tourist dhow or fishing boat, but otherwise it’s just you and the dolphins. In the evening, the captain will seek out another idyllic anchorage to stay overnight. Day seven Awake when the crew has you safely en route back towards Dubai. It’s a long day sailing but by nightfall you will be back in Dubai for an overnight stop. After a long day on board we recommend you step ashore and eat at one of the trendy restaurants of Nobu, Hakkasan, Gaucho or The Ivy. Day eight Time for one last swim and a few more hours in the sun as you head back to Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi. You will disembark having seen more of the Arabian Peninsular than many of the ex-pats who have lived there for years!
>> For charter enquiries, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 15
PRIVATSEA NEWS
PRIVATSEA NEWS
YACHTS & ITINERARIES — PRIVATSEA RECOMMENDS
M ⁄ Y TOY LENGTH: 42.67M BEAM: 7.92M DRAFT: 1.52M YEAR: 2009 BUILDER: AB YACHTS FLAG: MARSHALL GUESTS: 10 CABINS: 5 CRUISING SPEED: 27 KNOTS
Style and speed are the keywords for M/Y Toy. With her sleek lines and minimalist deck design, she looks as impressive on the water as she feel on top of it. This 42.6m fast-planning yacht has three engines with jet propulsions and reaches impressive maximum speeds of 40 knots without creating any noise or vibration. She is perfect for those who desire speed and luxury. M/Y Toy was built by AB yachts in 2009 and underwent a refit in 2013. Prior to coming on to the charter market, she was a rarely used private yacht, so is in impeccable condition. Everything about this yacht is streamlined – she has beautiful aerodynamic external lines and her outside deck
space and amenities blend seamlessly into the yacht’s exterior styling. Despite the impression of being minimalistic, the yacht has been cleverly designed to provide generous space. The large open aft deck provides al fresco dining, large and extremely comfortable sun beds and ample seating for drinks and cocktails on deck. There is further seating on the flybridge as well as a section at the fore which has been beautifully moulded into the yacht’s bow to provide seating and a table to enjoy cocktails or an al fresco lunch. There is also a sunbathing area nestled into the bow. The design of the bow area allows guests to enjoy the wonderful views while being completely sheltered from sea breezes. The interior deign is equally contemporary and beautiful. M/Y Toy has five luxury ensuite cabins and accommodates 10 guests. The impressive master suite also offers its own private saloon. The saloon living room and dining area is great to relax and offers the latest audio-visual and entertainment systems. Above the dining area is a large section of retractable glass roof allowing plenty of light by day and an enchanting view of the stars by night. Behind the main saloon is an area of additional seating surrounded by large floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors onto the aft deck. Water toys include a Jet ski, Seabob, scuba diving and snorkeling equipment, inflatable and towable toys, wakeboards, waveboards and kneeboards. M/Y Toy is available for charter in the Eastern Mediterranean.
ITINERARIES: THAILAND – 7 DAYS ABOARD S/Y DOUCE FRANCE Start at Langkawai and cruise to Phi Phi Ley, Ko Thong, Ko Kai Nok and Ko Hong. Spend the day at Phuket Surin Beach and take in the Similan Islands before finishing your Thailand adventure at Patong Beach.
Thailand
S ⁄ Y DOUCE FRANCE LENGTH: 42.2M BEAM: 15.4M DRAFT: 2.5M YEAR: 1998, REFIT 2009 BUILDER: ALU MARINE, FRANCE FLAG: BELGIUM GUESTS: 12 CABINS: 6 CRUISING SPEED: 9.5 KNOTS
At just over 42 metres in length, S/Y Douce France is one of the largest sailing catamarans available for private charter. She cruises the beautiful sailing destinations of the Indian Ocean, South-East Asia and South Pacific. She is a performance yacht, able to sail at speeds of up to 19 knots in optimum conditions, with twin diesel engines also allowing her to silently cruise at up to 10 knots. Accommodating 12 guests in six double cabins (all easily convertible from queen doubles to twin beds), Douce France boasts a beautiful interior with dark and light woods and contrasting brightly coloured soft furnishings. The main saloon has a feeling of understated elegance, with its highly polished woods and warm red carpet – it’s the >> For charter enquiries, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 16
perfect place for relaxing, complete with a drinks bar. The windows on the deckhouse provide wonderful 360-degree views for guests relaxing in the main lounge. There is a large dining table in the spacious cockpit, shaded by the overhang of the deckhouse. There is also a more intimate lounge for cooler evenings, or an al fresco dining option on the aft deck. For watersports enthusiasts, Douce France carries a selection of water toys including sailing dinghies, water skis, windsurfer, scuba diving gear and diving instructor, snorkeling equipment, fishing tackle and sea kayaks. Access to the water is made easy via a swim platform at the bottom of a cleverly designed folding stairway. There is also ample deck space for sunbathing.
Day one Join the yacht at Langkawi and set sail for Phi Phi Ley. The island was made famous after the movie, ‘The Beach’ was filmed here in 2000. Crystal clear water, huge limestone cliffs and lovely beaches dominate the area. We recommend taking a trip in the tender or kayak to our favourite small bay on this island and into a small cave which houses Chinese Viking paintings. The residents of Phi Phi Ley collect bird nests to make the local specialty, Chinese bird nest soup. Day two Depart Phi Phi Ley for Ko Thong. We recommend kayaking, exploring the caves and enjoying the spectacular scenery here. Guests may also wish to take the tender and visit the sea gypsy village. Anchor overnight at Ko Thong. Day three Depart Ko Thong for the short journey south to Ko Kai Nok. Here you will spend a few hours enjoying the beach, snorkeling and swimming. Set sail again mid-morning and head to the East side of Ko Yao
Yai and Ko Yao Noi where you will enjoy a beautiful sail through the Ko Pak Bia group of islands. There are a couple of fantastic beaches in this area, the best one is at Ko Hong. Guests may wish to go in the tender to visit the center of Ko Hong. Anchor overnight. Day four The yacht departs Ko Hong early morning and heads southeast to Krabi where you will anchor at Raleigh Beach. Guests may spend the day rock climbing, swimming or relaxing under the limestone cliffs. We recommend stepping ashore for dinner at the Dusit Ravadee Hotel. The yacht departs late evening for an overnight cruise to Phuket Surin Beach. Day five Wake up at Phuket Surin Beach and spend the day at the world-famous Amanpuri hotel, reputed to be one of the top 10 hotels in the world. Guests may wish to relax on the beach, go elephant riding, watch a monkey or snake show, or take a trip to the stage show, Phuket Fantasea. The Banyan Tree spa,
one of the best spas in the world, is a 15-minute drive. After dinner at the Amanpuri hotel, spend the night at anchor (weather dependant). Day six Depart Surin Beach and journey towards the Similan Islands that lie northwest of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. In 1982, this 128 square kilometer area was declared a marine national park, and in recent years this group of nine small islands (Similan is derived from the Malay Sembilan and means nine) has become one of the leading attractions for visitors to southern Thailand. Spend the day diving or snorkeling and anchor here overnight. There are very strict protection laws in this area so no fishing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, water skiing, or collecting of shells is allowed. Day seven Enjoy the scenery as you sail from the Similan Islands to Patong Beach for your return transfer to the airport.
>> For charter enquiries, contact lperanic@privatsea.com 17
PROJECT 95: FOR A SMARTER OWNER
Allow yourself the luxury of our services.
At 77.4m, M/Y Khozam could be transformed into a unique floating platform and renamed Project 95.
Project 95: For a smarter owner Exclusive Architecture & Interior Design | Bespoke Furniture & Decoration | Landscape Architecture | Project Management Serving esteemed customers globally. Offices: London | Athens | Bucharest | Soon in Moscow & Dubai
THERE IS WAVE OF INTEREST, AND ALMOST OBSESSION BY THE WORLD’S MEDIA, WITH WHO OWNS THE LARGEST, FASTEST AND MOST EXPENSIVE TOYS, ASSETS, PROPERTIES AND FORTUNES. BUT IN TODAY’S NEW ECONOMY AND PUTTING WEALTH TO ONE SIDE, THE NEXT GENERATION IS ALL ABOUT BEING RECOGNISED FOR WHAT YOU DO AND NOT BY WHAT YOU OWN. Words by Martin H. Redmayne
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mart wealth can be defined as people who are turned off by conspicuous consumption and excess, and who want to do something with their money that makes a difference or challenges convention. There is a regular series of lists published in the yachting press each year that celebrates and chronicles the Top 100 – the largest private and commercial yachts, which is invariably dominated by Gulf and Middle Eastern-owned state yachts, oligarchs or Wall Street masters of the universe. The Top 100 is used by many as a statement of wealth, even to the point that you can find a ranking checker to see if your yacht makes the list and to find out where you fit, who is your biggest neighbour and what size you need to be to enter the game. Having looked more closely at the list, I was recently introduced by PrivatSea Projects to a concept that could launch an intelligent owner onto the Top 100 for the price of an average 100-foot yacht. Imagine spending 4.5 million euros on a yacht, then budgeting a further 10 million euros for styling, upgrades and a 10-month refurbishment programme. In the current economy, you may end up with a 40-metre yacht that sits amongst a fleet of hundreds of other 40-metre yachts. However, if you’re intelligent, you may consider the following idea.
50 Broadway Str. SW1H 0RG, London | T. +44 203 289 0870 | stirixisexclusive.com | exclusive@stirixis.com Stirixis Exclusive, a part of Stirixis Group 19
PROJECT 95: FOR A SMARTER OWNER
You could buy M/Y Khozam and rename it Project 95, which is exactly where it would sit in the Top 100 list. This is a real ship that is currently in Greece and in need of a smart client to invest in her interior and exterior, transforming her into a unique, floating platform for exploring and enjoying the world. At 77.4m in length overall, a beam of 13.2m and a cruising range of 9,000 miles, this impressive Project 95 could gracefully and powerfully move from anchorage to anchorage, transferring any type of equipment, including submarines, remote power generators, a regionally focused exclusive school and even a mobile laboratory or private medical centre. It could even emerge as a private headquarters to a unique mobile business enterprise that always sits offshore. The world becomes your oyster. Essentially, when you scratch the surface of this majestic opportunity and look beneath her ship-like exterior, you uncover some 2000-plus gross tons of potential; the opportunity to regenerate a powerful yacht that not only makes a statement, but with some intelligent planning and engineering could provide extensive private spaces for your yacht needs, combined with equally vast technical, storage and research focused spaces for a myriad of global causes. Travelling the planet in ultimate comfort but delivering a rare philanthropic, health, research or eco-focused service to remote locations, being
recognised as a good cause with concerns for those who need help, not a conspicuous cause for concern due to excess consumption. It is this creative mission that inspires the next generation of owners. Being seen in all the right places is old news. Being seen doing something right in all of the good places is a better image. The concept of delivering a worthwhile legacy that is recognised by peers and the press is surely a worthwhile consideration for any owner who wants to make a statement. Having understood what Khozam can become, it is clear she is intended for a smart individual who can see beyond the dull commercial topsides. The potential buyer will see a project that inspires and excites communities wherever she goes and, in very simple terms, launch a smart owner all the way up the fleet to 95th slot on any of the Top 100 lists. If being on a list floats your boat, this is a new way of looking at it. Be the person on the list who stands out for the right reason. Don’t be well-known for how much you have spent or how much money you have wasted on gold leaf or rare woods, but for how much you have given back to the planet through weather or ocean-related investigations, or how much support you have given to a desperate community on a remote island in the Pacific. Be famous for having the biggest smartest yacht on the planet. If this is you, then Project 95 is your future.
A few of the world’s best designers were commissioned by PrivatSea to create concepts for Khozam to redesign and restyle the interior and exterior. Among these were Laurent Giles whose designers also investigated the naval architecture and technical aspects to validate the proposed new works. The exterior design concentrated on the styling and addition of features commensurate with a modern superyacht, which included extensive use of glass connecting the outside areas to the interiors, and a modern, but sympathetic superstructure to create new internal areas. With a 34ft Sunseeker, 25ft auxiliary tender and landing facility for a Eurocopter 155, the vessel was given all the upgrades that are expected. The interior has been completely reworked with accommodation for 18 guests as a private yacht, this can be adapted for 12 as a commercial yacht. Luxury and a variety of different areas was the brief, with a large observation room on the bridge deck being the focal feature.
ABOVE Clockwise from top: When you scratch the surface of this majestic opportunity and look beneath Khozam's ship-like exterior, you uncover some 2000-plus gross tons of potential; a sketch by Laurent Giles for the master suite; Laurent Giles created concepts to redesign the interior and exterior of M/Y Khozam. 20
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THE POWER OF POLICY
ONE OF GREECE’S OWN HAS STEPPED IN TO HELP WITH FUTURE GROWTH OF THE COUNTRY’S SUPERYACHT INDUSTRY, WRITES KATE HUBERT.
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he current state of the superyacht industry in Greece is something of a conundrum. On one hand it offers some of the world’s finest cruising locations, thousands of miles of unspoiled coastline, historical attractions and welcoming bars and restaurants. On the other, punitive legislation, a lack of top-class marinas and real co-ordination between the stakeholders in this business means its huge potential remains unrealised. However, changes for the better do seem to be afoot. Hellenic Lloyd’s has organised meetings between captains, lawyers and other yachting professionals so they can begin to work together, and tax structures for owners have been simplified. Also, one of Greece’s own may be able to help develop the Greek superyacht industry in an even more significant fashion. Maria Damanaki is the European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, and one of her flagship policies is the Blue Growth Agenda. This is a long-term strategy to support sustainable growth in the marine and maritime sectors as a whole. Recognising that seas and oceans are drivers for the European economy with great potential for innovation and growth, the superyacht industry is necessarily included in her purview. Blue Growth is itself part of the Integrated Maritime Policy's contribution to achieving the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy for ‘smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.’ So how will these policies impact on the superyacht industry across Europe, both today and in the future? The Commissioner is in no doubt of their significance. “The superyacht industry undoubtedly plays a crucial role in the EU's maritime economy as it has a positive impact on a number of other sectors and has demonstrated impressive growth rates,” she says. “The industry has grown by 228 per cent from 1998 to 2008. With major parts of the industry's markets and areas of operation located in Europe, we are very much aware of its key position within the blue economy.” As Commissioner Damanaki’s plans are first and foremost an ‘integrated policy’ there is much emphasis on how different sectors within the broad range of maritime industries can work together and gain insight from each other. Such collaboration, now just in its infancy in Greece, is sure to reap rewards. “The Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP) 22
recognises that the different sectors within the maritime economy benefit from working together with their counterparts in other sectors and we will seek to increase such coordination. The superyacht industry can benefit from coherent and dedicated actions in other fields such as research, coastal tourism, or the promotion and mutual recognition of maritime skills and qualifications.” The superyacht industry is also recognised as an important contributor, both economically and in terms of technological advances, as the Commissioner explains. “The aim of our Blue Growth Agenda is to tap into the huge potential of maritime sectors in order to unlock sustainable long-term growth and job creation. Yachting is one of the most promising maritime sectors in Europe, not only for the growth it can offer the coasts and ports of call, but also because European shipyards are world leaders in superyacht production. The industry benefits from technological progress in other industries but can also be a driver of such innovations.”
THE SUPERYACHT INDUSTRY SHOULD LOOK TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS ACROSS THE MARITIME SECTOR TO ENSURE THAT EMPLOYEES ARE EQUIPPED WITH SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS WHICH WILL HELP THE INDUSTRY GROW. – MARIA DAMANAKI
The Blue Growth Agenda also has a sense of shared responsibility for the future of our seas and maritime industries, and the Commissioner is clear that she thinks that owners, crew and yacht builders could do even more. “In practical terms, I think the industry could promote voluntary schemes for emission reduction and encourage energy efficiency on board. It is important that the industry actively cooperates with local and regional stakeholders on things such as marina adaptation and smarter
solutions for waste and recycling. Ideas such as the use of solar panels to produce enough energy to propel yachts to their cruising speed or using hulls made out of sustainable timber instead of the more energy-intensive materials are just some examples of what can be achieved by the industry.” As the Greek superyacht industry develops, it can build in these ‘green’ policies to any new developments and perhaps start to re-gain business lost to Turkey, Croatia and Montenegro. This sense of ’green’ responsibility is linked to the core principle of the Commission’s initiatives sustainable growth across the maritime industries. This isn’t about short-term fixes or profit, but on building a better future; and the Commissioner is confident the superyacht industry has a valuable role to play. “By working with the fisheries sector to provide locally caught sustainable seafood on board yachts, the industry can create a robust, mutually beneficial partnership, which will help both sectors prosper.” The Commission also understands that the superyacht industry faces problems across Europe and will also be supported by the Blue Growth Agenda. “We will soon propose a coherent, dedicated strategy for coastal and maritime tourism in Europe,” says the Commissioner. “It represents huge potential for growth and jobs, in particular in countries that are suffering most from the economic and financial crisis. Yachting, including the superyacht business, is an important sub-sector that deserves all our attention for the role it can play in breaking down these barriers and for its undoubted potential for development. “We invite Member States, regions, stakeholders and the industry to work together and find the best solutions for marina infrastructure and destination management to ensure these opportunities are not lost.” With the well-documented problems with the Greek economy and soaring rates of unemployment – the Blue Growth Agenda may also represent a sea change in the fortunes of a country with a long and proud history of seafaring. This must be music to the ears of Greek superyacht owners and crew, marinas and the associated support businesses such as shipyards. The Blue Growth Agenda will hopefully become a significant factor in the recovery and future development of the entire Greek superyacht industry.
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A church on Hydra 's coastlin e sets the sc ene at dus k.
only s e y e our y r o f
best-kept secret about Greece WORDS BY CORNELIA MARIOGLOU
THIS PAGE Hydra's cityscape and harbour at dusk.
BEST-KEPT SECRET ABOUT GREECE
WITH GOOD REASON, GREECE WELCOMES MILLIONS OF VISITORS FROM AROUND THE WORLD EACH YEAR. THE RICH CULTURE THAT SPANS FROM THE PALEOLITHIC AGE, APPROXIMATELY 120,000-10,000 BC TO THE ROMAN PERIOD IN 1ST CENTURY BC-3RD CENTURY AD, SHIFTS THE FOCUS TO THE HELLENISTIC ERA. OF COURSE, GUESTS LIKE TO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRACE THE FINGERPRINTS OF GREEK HISTORY ON ITS HUNDREDS OF ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES, INCLUDING THE FAMOUS ACROPOLIS IN ATHENS OR THE ORACLE OF DELPHI. HOWEVER, MOST VISITORS COME TO EXPERIENCE THE SHEER BEAUTY OF THE GREEK ISLANDS.
ABOVE Fruit and vegetable market stall in Hydra.
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here are 6,000 islands and islets that make up Greece, of which only 227 islands are inhabited, scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Sea. The Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500km of the country’s 16,000km coastline. From beaches stretching along the coast, sheltered bays and coves, sandy beaches with sand dunes, pebble beaches, coastal caves with rocks and dark colored sand on volcanic islands – the diversity is phenomenal. Most of the islands are found in the Aegean Sea, divided into seven groups, including the NorthEastern Aegean Islands with Agios Efstratios, Thasos, Ikaria, Lesvos, Limnos, Inouses, Samos, Samothrace, Chios and Psara. Next is Sporades made up of Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros, and the prefecture of Euboea which includes the island of Skiros. The Dodekanese is made up of Patmos, Kos, Kalymnos, and the most famous one, Rhodes. Then there is the largest island, Crete, followed by the Cyclades, a group of 56 islands which attracts most of the visitors, including the famous islands of Naxos, Paros, Santorini and, of course, Mykonos. Last but not least are the islands of the Argo-Saronic, which include Aegena, Spetses and Hydra – our objects of desire. Half an hour shuttle by helicopter brings guests from the Greek capital of Athens to the best-kept secret in the Aegean, the magical Greek triangle of Porto Heli, Spetses and Hydra. Embark on a superyacht and cruise around the extraordinary grounds on the east coast of Peloponnese and the Saronic Islands, hills scattered with hundreds of ancient olive trees. Explore the recently opened Amanzo’e, the first villa-integrated Aman resort in Europe, designed by Ed Tuttle, an Aman veteran and philhellene who has created a 38-suite resort with either valley or sea views, each with its own pool, situated on the hilltop close to the town of Porto Heli. It offers a private Beach Club in a picturesque bay and, even more important, easy access to the cosmopolitan islands of Spetses and Hydra. The classic Greek architecture with contemporary elements, stonewalls and colonnades echoes the ancient Acropolis, a stage set for spectacular sunsets and panoramic views. Even a miniature amphitheatre has been integrated into the building complex mirroring the amphitheatre of Epidaurus, which is a must see and only 60km from the resort. Co-founder of the five-star hotel, Miltos Kambouridis, has added something that did not exist in Greece before. “Our immaculate five-star service is the best service you can get in Greece today,” he says. “We know people who had never visited Greece because there was no hotel for them to stay that allowed them to enjoy the high standard of lifestyle they are accustomed to.” The resort also holds a Wally tender and can shuttle guests to the neighboring islands of Spetses and Hydra. Mykonos is easily accessible by direct flights while the exclusive island of Spetses is a popular weekend retreat for wealthy Athenians where no motorcars are allowed on the island. Spetses is the sophisticated sister of dazzling Mykonos and visitors can expect an understated casual style and warm-hearted hospitality. Many pristine beaches are accessible by yacht only, with little beach restaurants that serve fresh fish from the grill or traditional Greek dishes. Sometimes the restaurants don’t even have a menu and the chef comes out and serves whatever is fresh and available from the sea – simple and delicious.
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BEST-KEPT SECRET ABOUT GREECE
There’s no better way to experience the island of Spetses than on a yacht, showing the island in all their facets, contrasts and beauty that are hidden from casual visitors who come to the island via ferry or hydrofoil. As there is no airport on Spetses and Hydra, this is the only way to access this micro cosmos, home to some of the wealthiest families in the world. Although Greece continues to show signs of recession, Spetses remains a preserved and self-contained paradise. Cruising on, Bohemian Hydra is different with its flourishing art scene where donkeys lug your luggage across the island. It was the place to be in the early Seventies when Canadian singer and songwriter, Leonard Cohen, spent his summers there. Artists still hold court at the famous Pirate Bar. The crescent-shaped harbour is the heart of Hydra, based on the northern coast, and most of the visitors arrive via Athens. Every summer season the island attracts yacht owners from all over the world. When they arrive at the narrow port of Hydra, visitors are overwhelmed by the view onto the stone mansions on the left side and the strand of fine restaurants, jewelry shops, markets and galleries that
create a dazzling, vibrant atmosphere on the piazza. If it is your first visit to the island, be prepared to enter a world without cars and mopeds, where only donkeys with coloured blankets roam to carry visitors around the rocky hillsides to their hotels or the many monasteries. There is one exception to the rule: the rubbish truck. No matter if one arrives by hydrofoil or private yacht, if the aim is to explore the island the only way to go around is the living transport system to climb the steep stone streets that lead out of town to reach the small villages on the island. Some people say that Hydra became famous all over the world thanks to the film ‘Boy on a Dolphin’ shot on the island in 1957 with Sophia Loren. However, we think Hydra is simply unique, which is why guests return again and again. For a true Greek experience, return to the contemporary and understated chic of Spetses. Here, the exciting annual Armata Festival plays during September where locals honour the fierce female admiral Laskarina Bouboulina who commanded the naval fleet to fight for Greece against the Ottoman navy in the Greek Revolution of 1821.
ABOVE Some people say Hydra became famous thanks to the film 'Boy on a Dolphin' starring Sophia Loren. LEFT Visitors to Hydra are met by donkeys with coloured blankets to carry them around the rocky hillsides.
ABOVE The pristine Agios Nikolaos monastery and church in Spetses.
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Enjoy a day at Kaiki Beach with its adjoining restaurant and the unforgettable Zogeria Beach which offers clear waters surrounded by a dense, verdant pine forest that is simply magic. Go shopping at the On Deck shop near the Piazza, a shop where the entire collection of Eres swimsuits is available – a sure sign that money is at home at Spetses. Go for the best sweets in Spetses available at the Vanilla where you’ll find homemade cookies, world-class cakes and the best profiteroles in the world. Make sure you head for dinner at Nero tis Agapis where the chef, Anastasios Boufis, treats you well with some of the best modern dishes Greek cuisine has to offer (try Fish a la Spetsiota, a topping made
of parsley, tomato and olives baked in the oven), paired with a breathtaking view over the port of Spetses. Or enjoy the bar and restaurant at Palio Limani, the old harbor where the famous Mourayo is located. The guestbook reads like a who’s who of international jetsetters who have dined here. Visit the place to see and be seen, the Bikini Bar, and try the signature cocktail, a Bikini Zone which is mixed with Cachaca, grapefruit-jasmine tea soda, lime and pineapple purée. Owner Christos Fasseas will serve you cocktails and delicious finger food, but don’t miss the entrance, look for a small sign. Late at night go to La Luz, a Greek music bar with live music and dancing, located in a brick building at the Old Harbour.
IF IT IS YOUR FIRST VISIT TO THE ISLAND, BE PREPARED TO ENTER A WORLD WITHOUT CARS AND MOPEDS, WHERE ONLY DONKEYS WITH COLOURED BLANKETS ROAM TO CARRY VISITORS AROUND THE ROCKY HILLSIDES TO THEIR HOTELS OR THE MANY MONASTERIES.
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DOUBLE THE
PLEASURE
MOST TRAVELLERS WOULD CONSIDER A YACHTING HOLIDAY A DELIGHT IN ITS OWN RIGHT, BUT THERE’S LITTLE DOUBT THAT THE PLEASURE OF A LIFE AT SEA CAN BE FURTHER ENHANCED BY A SPELL ON DRY LAND. PRIVATSEA PARTNERS WITH LUXURY VILLAS AND PRIVATE RESIDENCES AROUND THE WORLD TO ENHANCE THE YACHTING EXPERIENCE AND EXTEND YOUR HOLIDAY ON LAND. AND SURELY ONE OF LIFE’S GREATEST INDULGENCES IS THE VILLA-YACHT COMBINATION? Words by Lisa Freedman
DOUBLE THE PLEASURE
W WE ARE LIKE TWINS, WE OFFER TWO DIFFERENT STRANDS OF LUXURY, BOTH WITH THE SAME STANDARD OF LIVING AND QUALITY OF SERVICE. –P AOLO MACCHIAROLI, MY PRIVATE VILLAS
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THIS PAGE Villa Impero in Capri, Italy, dates back to the early 17th century and is shrouded in trees, flowers and shrubbery.
hen describing the relationship between a luxury villa holiday and a superyacht charter, Paolo Macchiaroli of My Private Villas sums it up perfectly. ‘We are like twins,’ he says. ‘We offer two different strands of luxury, both with the same standard of living and quality of service.’ Today, wherever you set sail, you will almost certainly be able to mix and match the glories of your yacht with an equally appealing sea-front property. ‘Many clients, of course, want both,’ says Macchiaroli. ‘When they’re away from home, they still want to feel at home. Finding the right villa ensures they can do so.’ My Private Villas, as its name suggests, rent out privately owned villas in the key yachting locations in the Mediterranean, from St Tropez to Sardinia, and Macchiaroli believes that one of the chief benefits of having a temporary anchor on terra firma is the detailed local knowledge it brings.
“Villa staff, of course, understand the location intimately and have excellent contacts that can be relied upon to open doors,” he says. “If you want a table at the most fashionable restaurant in an hour’s time, or require a berth in a packed marina in high season, they’ll know how to arrange it.” This local expertise can also be handily imported on to your yacht. “The chef at the villa, for example, might be asked to provide a meal on board,” says Macchiaroli. The villa-yacht package often works particularly well for parties with young children or an extensive guest list. “We find some nationalities are very family oriented and like to gather in large groups,” says Julie Gauthier, founder of Villas de Maitre, which has a range of superbly equipped residences in Mauritius, the Seychelles, Zanzibar and Mozambique. “In a hotel you can rarely find more than three bedrooms together, but a villa gives you expansive private space.” A top-of-the-range villa will also mirror the quality of design and finish of even the most perfectly polished yacht. “The villas in our new collection,
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WE HAD NEVER BEEN YACHTING BEFORE, BUT WANTED A HOLIDAY THAT COMBINED SOMETHING VERY ACTIVE WITH SOMETHING MORE ROOTED. WE LOVED BEING ABLE TO SAIL TO DIFFERENT LOCATIONS AND LOOK AROUND, SWIMMING AND DIVING OFF THE YACHT, BUT THEN REALLY ENJOYED CRASHING OUT IN THE VILLA. – SOPHIE ANDERSON
TOP Villas are available at Tagomago Island, Ibiza. ABOVE Chateau St Tropez offers guests a home away from home. 34
Art de Vivre, are designed by some of the world’s leading architects and interior designers,” says Gautier, “and, because they are also private homes, many come furnished with significant art collections and fine furniture.” The balance between yacht and villa can, of course, be tipped according to taste. Some will charter a yacht and decide to house additional guests nearby, others will simply want to take advantage of a spell on land to explore an area more thoroughly. “A lot of our guests like to split their stay,” says Gautier. “They may, for example, use a villa as their main base, and then decide to hire a catamaran for three nights at the beginning or end of their trip. All of our holidays are tailor made and, working together with PrivatSea, we are happy to source a yacht for them.”
For those wanting an introduction to the pleasures of yachting, the first-one-then-the-other arrangement can be a reassuring entree to an exciting adventure – as Sophie Anderson and her family found recently when they chartered a sailing yacht in Greece for one week, followed by a second week in a villa. “We had never been yachting before, but wanted a holiday that combined something very active with something more rooted. We loved being able to sail to different locations and look around, swimming and diving off the yacht, but then really enjoyed crashing out in the villa.” For the Andersons, villa-plus-yacht proved the ideal holiday combination, and they intend to be back next year.
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DOUBLE THE PLEASURE
THE MEDITERRANEAN
THE CARIBBEAN
THE INDIAN OCEAN
TAGOMAGO, IBIZA
VILLA NANDANA, GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND
EXCLUSIVE VILLA ONE, MAURITIUS
(100,000 euros a week)
(5,000-10,000 euros a night)
(3,300-4,500 euros a week)
If seclusion is your priority, then this interior-designed villa on a private island, half a mile off the coast of Ibiza, would be a perfect location. Tagomago Island enjoys 525,000 sq metres of green and pleasant pathways, as well as a superb five-bedroom villa, with stunning views and a large pool. myprivatevillas.com
This deluxe, ocean-front, five-bedroom villa is in the exclusive West End of Great Bahama Island. Designed along the lines of an Asian beach house, the villa allows for plenty of sprawling space, with guests housed in six separate buildings. Highly trained staff will cater to their every whim. lacurevillas.com
This interior-designed beachfront villa with four bedroom suites has a private heated pool and butler service. What makes it unique, however, is its outstanding collection of photography, including works by Vogue master Jean-Daniel Lorieux and portraitist-to-the-stars Slim Aarons (whose subjects include Clark Gable, Gary Cooper and James Stewart). villasdemaitre.com
VILLA YACHT COMBINATIONS
PrivatSea partners with many villa companies to offer added benefits to its clients through its Luxury Alliance programme. For yacht charter or villa booking enquiries, please contact info@privatsea.com
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M/Y WINI
S/Y AVALON
M/Y EXUMA
(26,000-29,500 euros a week)
(30,000-34,000 euros a week)
(189,000 euros a week)
The island has it owns jetty in a protected bay, ideal for docking the M/Y Wini, a sleek 21.6m motoryacht. Capable of whizzing you round at speeds of up to 31 knots, M/Y Wini can accommodate up to six guests in four air-conditioned cabins, as well as three crew. Life on board is further enhanced by a sundeck, bathing platform and open-air dining.
Yachting in the Caribbean is all about sailing in style and the sailing yacht Avalon is as stylish as they come. This 32m yacht has beautiful interior and exterior design by New Zealand maestro Ron Holland and can host six guests and five crew.
To match it with something equally exciting at sea, you might want to consider the 50m M/Y Exuma. This seafaring dazzler has been designed for exploration and, as well as a gym, Jacuzzi and expansive range of water toys, comes equipped with an amphibious jeep to make the most of adventuring on land and sea. The yacht has accommodation for nine guests (in four doubles and a twin cabin) as well as nine crew.
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A JEWEL IN VOULIAGMENI’S CROWN
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reece is a country of contrasts – with its abundance of classical ruins and ancient sites mixed in with idyllic islands and beautiful beaches framed by turquoise seas. Arguably one of the very best places to enjoy the best of both these worlds is on the so-called Athens Riviera. Every bit as stunning and salubrious as its French counterpart, the Athens Riviera is just a short taxi ride from the historical sites of ancient Athens but feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of city living. When your feet need a rest from walking between the Acropolis, the theatres of Dionysos and Odeon of Herod Atticus and the Ancient Agora, you can hop in a taxi and escape to the relaxation of sparkling clean beaches, mountains and a freshwater lake. Welcome to Vouliagmeni, a unique spot on the Attica Coast. Not surprisingly, Vouliagmeni has long been the summer playground for elegant Athenians, with its luxurious boutiques, beautiful restaurants and vibrant cafes. It’s an area of natural beauty and the gorgeous Vouliagmeni peninsula - a hilly, wooded promontory jutting into the sea - is the spectacular setting for the jewel in Vouliagmeni’s crown, The Astir Palace Resort. Sprawling across 75 acres of sun drenched gardens on a pine dotted pensinsula, The Astir Palace Resort commands the most magical destination in the Saronic Gulf. This is Athens’
Oceans of Experience This unique ocean-going megayacht has recently undergone a full refurbishment and is available for sale in
premier resort and is a haven for many stars and a firm favourite with the Athenian and international jet set. A truly magical destination for any traveler, this idyllic spot offers complete privacy and relaxation. Voted among the top 20 resorts in Europe, the resort complex includes endless recreational facilities, luxury accommodation and fabulous gourmet dining options. The resort complex includes two hotels - Arion, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa and The Westin Athens with a third, W Athens, due to open in 2016. The legendary atmosphere of the Arion hotel is enhanced by spectacular views of the Saronic Gulf. The hotel harmoniously blends classic style with contemporary décor and the resort’s bungalows offer utmost privacy for its guests. The spa provides the ultimate in rest and relaxation, with reviving treatments and therapies and a heated pool and hot tub. There are also endless possibilities for gourmet lovers, from traditional Greek recipes and Mediterranean flavours to well-known Japanese delicacies, all served with the most stunning sea views. The sister property, The Westin Athens, is a spectacular setting, offering magical views of the Saronic Gulf, a private beach, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and award-winning fine dining. The 162 stylish guest rooms boast a clean, contemporary style and are finished in a cool, soothing colour palette. Designer toiletries in the
superb condition. With her superior construction, luxurious interiors and comprehensive facilities, every guest is guaranteed an unforgettable cruising experience.
large bathrooms add a sophisticated touch to the rooms, all of which have a private balcony to enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, you’ll be welcome to experience the bars, restaurants and lounges here. Enjoy a romantic dinner on the patio of the world famous Matsuhisa Athens by Nobu restaurant or a more relaxed coffee or cocktail at the poolside bar. www.astir-palace.com www.arionresortathens.com www.westinathens.com
MV ALEXANDER | Length : 122m | Builder : Lubecker Flender | Last refit : 2012 | POA 1 Master Suite | 14 two Bedroom Suites | 12 Staterooms | Outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi | Private cinema Conference room | Discotheque | Gymnasium | Beauty Salon | Closed circuit TV & security alarm Fully equipped hospital | Fully certified helipad
Offices in London, Athens, Geneva, French Riviera & Jeddah info@privatsea.com • London +44 20 7396 5460 • Athens +30 211 600 7200 • www.privatsea.com YA C H T M A N A G E M E N T
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LUXURY ALLIANCE
LADY MARIPOSA THE PERFECT STEPPING STONE YACHT, S/Y LADY MARIPOSA IS A MASTERFUL DESIGN THAT IS SMALL ENOUGH FOR EASY HANDLING AND ACCESS TO SHALLOW ANCHORAGES, BUT WITH ALL THE COMFORT AND VOLUME OF A SUPERYACHT. Words by Ellie Brade
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popular new entrant to the PrivatSea charter fleet, 19.4m S/Y Lady Mariposa is the fifth yacht in the award-winning Oyster 625 line designed by British designer Rob Humphreys of Humphreys Yacht Design. Launched in 2013, she was built for passionate owners who saw her as the perfect fit for their lifestyle and as the ideal platform to explore the world. Built and designed in England, she is a true example of British design class. A major part of Humphreys’ original goal for the design was to achieve a yacht that was ideally sized for shorthanded crewing, but without any compromise on volume and comfort. “This makes the Oyster 625 perfect as both a crewed charter boat or as a private yacht where the owners prefer to crew the yacht themselves,” explains Humphreys. “She is the optimum size and the perfect stepping stone boat.” Although Humphreys is humble about his work, the yacht has been thrice recognised at international superyacht awards and in further testament to the success of the design, 14 Oyster 625s have been ordered in two years. Lady Mariposa is the perfect demonstration of why the Oyster 625 yachts have proved so popular. Her owners chose to maximise the potential of the base design by commissioning a beautifully finished and luxurious interior. Featuring a contemporary nautical style interior design, with a base theme of maple, grey Avonite worktops and Nile Blue furnishings, she is bright, airy and modern. Luxurious comfort was the end goal and huge attention to detail means her interior quality far surpasses that of most yachts her size and is akin to that of a much larger superyacht. “What makes Lady Mariposa different from other charter yachts our size is that everything on board is designed as if it were a superyacht, from the luxury furnishings and amenities to the top level service,” says Captain Dan Hardy.
Communal spaces are generous and accommodation on board includes a spacious welcoming master suite. A focal point is the fullbeam salon, which leads out into the cockpit. Humphreys worked to maximise the deck space, and uncluttered, wide decks mean that she is ideal for outdoor living. Sun pads are located forward adding an extra space for relaxation. “Ensuring that every space on the yacht was made the most of, both inside and out, was a priority for this design,” explains Humphreys. A key advantage of Lady Mariposa’s size is that she is able to access shallower waters, opening up a world of small beaches and allowing flexibility for charter plans. “As a smaller yacht, we can venture further afield and enjoy private anchorages that larger yachts cannot reach,” says Captain Hardy. Being able to sail further off the beaten track has meant that Lady Mariposa has proved to be well suited to those looking for a secluded paradise of their own. Offering a varied charter schedule, she spends the summer in the Adriatic and Ionian seas in the Med, based out of her homeport of Montenegro, and winters in the Caribbean. With an extensive range of water toys and activities to complement her adventurous nature, Lady Mariposa has proved a popular choice for those looking to maximise their time on the water. The wide range of activities includes wake boarding, diving, fishing and simply relaxing in exquisite surroundings. Lady Mariposa's owners are water sports lovers and the crew are well qualified to introduce guests to the world beneath the waves. Many guests enjoy putting the full set of fishing equipment to good use, and then enjoying the spoils fresh from the barbeque for lunch. Keen sailors, or those wishing to give sailing a try for the first time, are always encouraged to lend a hand with sailing the yacht. A lightweight carbon race rig ensures that Lady Mariposa moves quickly and seamlessly from destination to destination, while her clean and flush lines make her a striking site on the water.
ABOVE St Vincent and the Grenadines is made up of 32 islands and cays, each with their own stunning beaches.
ABOVE The neutral colour palette continues from the master suite through to the main salon. LEFT The luxury furnishings and amenities are designed as if Lady Mariposa was a superyacht.
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A CARIBBEAN ADVENTURE
ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
One of the favourite charter destinations for Lady Mariposa is the warm waters of the Caribbean. Offering the perfect mix of beaches, nightlife, diving, quiet corners and uncrowded sailing grounds, the area is a perfect fit for a varied charter. Throughout the winter season the yacht is available to charter throughout the Caribbean and popular destinations for the yacht include the British Virgin Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, St Maarten, St Barths and Anguilla. A particular favourite cruising spot for Lady Mariposa is St Vincent and the Grenadines, which Captain Hardy describes as “one of the most beautiful sailing grounds in the world”.
Part of the Windward Isles in the Eastern Caribbean, St Vincent and the Grenadines are made up of 32 beautiful islands and cays that offer stunning beaches and an exquisite underwater world. Known as the ‘spice islands’ the area brings together beaches, mountains, rainforest and clear waters in one stunning overall package. With so much on offer the area is ideal for activity lovers and for a relaxing holiday. Guests can spend the week enjoying secluded anchorages and exploring wrecks and coral reefs that teem with fish, while calling in at unspoiled Caribbean villages along the way. Well worth a visit is Bequia, the second largest island in the Grenadines. Steeped in maritime history, and a popular stop off point for yachts, you can expect to be welcomed by friendly locals. A highlight of this area is the Tobago Cays. Accessible only by water the archipelago’s five uninhabited islands are set in a perfect blue lagoon. The islands are a natural turtle sanctuary and have a vast array of wildlife. The decks of Lady Mariposa are the perfect place to enjoy these unforgettable surroundings.
[THE GRENADINES] ARE ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SAILING GROUNDS IN THE WORLD. – CAPTAIN DAN HARDY, S/Y LADY MARIPOSA 43
THIS PAGE Tamara Embroidered bikini set, £195, and Rio Squame kaftan: £235, both by Babajaan, www.babajaancollection.com Siren cuff in gold by Monica Vinader, £360, www.monicavinader.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS ANDREWS
THIS PAGE Red kaftan by Rose Amber, www.roseamber.com Siren cuff in gold by Monica Vinader, £360, www.monicavinader.com
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THIS PAGE Model wears rainforest print chiffon dress by Amanda Wakeley, £1,495, www.amandawakeley.com Siren cuff in gold by Monica Vinader, £360, www.monicavinader.com
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ABOVE Model wears Island Tunic in white by Elizabeth Hurley Beach, £231, www.elizabethhurley.com
OPPOSITE PAGE Siren cuff in gold by Monica Vinader, £360, www.monicavinader.com 50
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THIS PAGE Model wears orange maxi dress by Richard Nicoll
ABOVE Black Eiffel one-piece swimsuit with leather trim by Sumarie, £349, www.sumarie.com 53
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Printed scuba dress by Amanda Wakeley, £595, www.amandawakeley.com Fiji chain friendship bracelet in gold by Monica Vinader, £175, www.monicavinader.com
Mink embellished dress by Amanda Wakeley, £3,295, www.amandawakeley.com Fiji chain friendship bracelet in gold by Monica Vinader, £175, www.monicavinader.com 55
LITTLE BLACK BOOK: ANTIGUA
LITTLE BL ACK BOOK
WORDS BY FELIX MILNS
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ABOVE There are more than 365 bays and beaches in Antigua, one for every day of the year.
O
ozing maritime history and Caribbean charm, Antigua is the immaculately sculpted gateway to the Leeward Islands and one of the Caribbean’s most colourful characters, with an intoxicating palette of azure waters, brightly painted clapboard houses and lush rainforest-clad peaks. Add in offshore reefs, a beach for every day of the year and a coastline of mesmerising coves and it’s clear why Antigua is a direct flight away from many European and US cities. Initially sighted by Columbus on his second Caribbean voyage, the island was first settled by the English in 1632, with sugarcane plantations and slavery swiftly following suit. The largest of the English-speaking Leeward Islands, Antigua became the English Navy’s main naval base in the North-Eastern Caribbean and the ruins of many fortifications still adorn the charismatic cliff tops. The Calypso spirit of the Caribbean guarantees a typically warm welcome to yacht visitors, and Antigua’s maritime present is as lively as its past, with the Antigua Yacht Show in December – a flagship superyacht event – and the world-renowned Antigua Sailing Week bookending the winter season.
COAST Antigua is famed for its 365 beaches, some in tiny coves accessible only by boat, and others mile-long sweeps of white sand, as popular for hatching turtles as sunbathers. On the south west coast check out the glorious sweep of Carlisle beach – and tuck in to seabass with spiced chickpeas and spinach at Carlisle Bay – while in the south east Half Moon Bay is famed for its cooling breeze and fine surf, the full force of the Atlantic distilled by a protecting reef. Grab a simple lunch at Smiling Harry’s Bar. For a busier vibe check out the golden west coast sands of Dickenson Bay and Runaway beach, with a backdrop of hotels and lively beach bars. Just off the east coast is Green Island, uninhabited apart from the turtles, sea birds and wonderful marine life in the shallows. A day trip to Barbuda, Antigua’s sister isle, is a must for water-borne travellers. The reefs around the island make for some incredible diving, the corals are in good condition and the vibrant reef fish are often joined by large pelagic passers-by.
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LITTLE BLACK BOOK: ANTIGUA
INLAND Antigua is famed for its naval past and English Harbour is home to the restored Nelson’s Dockyard, named after the young Horatio Nelson who learned his craft in the local waters. It remains a working yard with classic and uber-modern yachts moored against the old stone ramparts. The surrounding slopes are littered with the ruins of stone fortifications. For a taste of plantation past visit Betty’s Hope, a restored plantation and windmill, or for a more adrenaline-fuelled tour try the zipwire and rainforest canopy walks to the south west of the island (www.antiguarainforest.com).
AT L A N T I C OCEAN Gulf of Mexico
Piggots Parham
Bahamas
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Cuba ANTIGUA
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Puerto Rico ST. KITTS & NEVIS GUADELOUPE
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MARTINIQUE
BARBADOS GRENADA TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
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PARTY Antigua sways to the sounds of steel bands and calypso, with the locals out in full glory at the weekends. Wadadli is the local pale lager and perfectly thirst-quenching, but the true taste of the island is an old-fashioned rum punch, with English Harbour rum, fresh lime, sugar syrup, bitters and cinnamon powder – most memorably mixed by the charismatic Joaquim at Carlisle Bay. Shirley Heights Lookout (www.shirleyheightslookout. com), an old naval outpost on a clifftop setting above English Harbour, is an Antiguan Institution. The Sunday sunset session is the most famous but a tad over-crowded – and over-promoted. Instead catch the sunset there on a Thursday and enjoy the steel band and local reggae and soca artists slightly less shoulder to shoulder. Down in Nelson’s Dockyard the Galley Bar has been quenching seafarer’s thirst for two centuries and is an atmospheric old sea dog of a bar adorned with cannons and copper boilers. Oenophiles will enjoy tasting the selection on offer at the relaxed yet refined C&C Wine bar in St John’s, who also deliver on board.
TOP The sounds of steel bands and calypso fill the weekends as locals groove to the music.
St John’s
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EAT From flying fish sandwiches and fresh ceviche to simply grilled Mahi Mahi, fish is king in Antigua, but Carribean classics like freshly spiced jerk chicken, with plenty of native reggae reggae-style sauce, are never far away. Check out Papa Zouk in St John’s for a classic creole/fish combo, or for a more refined taste sample the mouth-watering tuna and watermelon tartar at Indigo on the Beach at Carlisle Bay Hotel. Also worth visiting is Le Bistro (www.antigualebistro.com), an elegant plantation villa serving a French take on classic creole, with dishes like smoked marlin carpaccio and Caribbean-style bouillabaisse.
United States
Venezuala Columbia
South America Guyana
THE CALYPSO SPIRIT OF THE CARIBBEAN GUARANTEES A TYPICALLY WARM WELCOME TO YACHT VISITORS, AND ANTIGUA’S MARITIME PRESENT IS AS LIVELY AS ITS PAST.
REGATTA The end of the season is a wonderful time to visit for sailing enthusiasts. More than 100 yachts will Brazil compete during Antigua Sailing Week (26 April – 5 May), one of the most prestigious regattas in the calendar. The week kicks off with the famed Yachting World Round Antigua Race. The previous weekend sees the Classic Yacht Regatta, one of the biggest gatherings of classic yachts in the Caribbean.
STAY Carlisle Bay (http://www.campbellgrayhotels.com/ carlisle-bay) is the best hotel on the island, having perfected the art of barefoot five-star service with real Caribbean integrity. It’s an idyllic setting in a near private cove with excellent restaurants and nine tennis courts. A more boutique option is the elegant Inn at English Harbour (www.theinnantigua.com). Book through Antigua luxury specialists Powder Byrne (www.powderbyrne.com).
MARINAS The best marinas are found in English Harbour, Falmouth Harbour and Jolly Harbour, avoid the capital St Johns – this is where the cruise ships dock.
LEFT The picturesque Half Moon Bay at dusk. 58
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EDITOR'S PICK
FOR HIM A TRIBUTE TO NELSON MANDELA Italian luxury writing instrument brand Montegrappa has honoured everyone from Sylvester Stallone to Paulo Coelho with its range of limited-edition pens, but the latest subject is arguably the most iconic. It recently reached an agreement with the Mandela family to produce a collection of 500 pen, watch and cufflink sets – 500 representing the number of medical clinics that were upgraded or constructed during Mandela's presidency of South Africa. The pens feature rose gold decoration, a cap engraved with the map of South Africa and Mandela’s signature plus a clip that includes a conflict-free South African diamond. RRP £2,900 www.montegrappa.com
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WORTH THE WAIT Piaget continues to push the boundaries with its graceful, slender watches, and the Emperador Coussin Automatic Minute Repeater is the slimmest yet, with an impressively thin 4.8mm calibre and 9.4mm case. For the less horologically knowledgeable, a minute repeater is a chiming watch that requires the highest levels of skill to build and, as such, commands a high price. Entirely crafted in house, the new 120P calibre, using 407 parts, took three years to design. It was worth the wait.
way
RRP £219,000 www.piaget.com
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4 AMPLIFY YOUR SOUND
If you’re looking for some cuff love then Jacob Arabo, New York’s jeweler of choice to a host of music artists, has just the thing to add a pop of colour to your sleeve. Tsavorite stones and princess-cut diamonds are set in platinum to stunning effect.
If you’re looking to bring top-quality audio to a spare room or, indeed, to the lounge or master bedroom of a superyacht, you need a system as compact as it is sonically refined. This excellent Devialet amp contains innovative technology that enables it to deliver power and refinement in a chassis so slim that it can even be wall mounted. All you need to do is add some speakers. Refinement, power, and stark industrial design are the hallmarks of this kit which, admittedly, you pay a premium for. If you’re looking to truly rock the boat, this audiophile-acclaimed amp is hard to beat.
RRP £13,750 www.jacobandco.com
RRP £14,600 www.devialet.com
A POP OF COLOUR
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Luxury Travel
CRYSTAL CLEAR Hasselblad was founded in Stockholm in 1841, but the world only really woke up to its cameras’ class when one was used by Neil Armstrong to capture the first images on the moon. The brand’s latest launch, the Lunar, is a worthy addition to the line. It comes in five aesthetically pleasing styles, including a sleek, light carbon-fibre design, and its mirrorless interchangeable lens and Sony engine mean that crystal-clear image reproduction is guaranteed. RRP £7,300 www.hasselblad.co.uk
2 6 , F i l e l l i n o n S t r. 105 58 Athens Greece T. (+30) 210 4221800 F. (+30) 210 4138545 E. luxury@aktinatravel.gr w w w.aktinatravel.gr
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EDITOR'S PICK
EDITORS PICK
FOR HER
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TREASURE KEEPER Linley’s Erté Box velveteen jewellery box boasts an abalone mother of pearl design inspired by the chic illustrations of Russian-born French artist Erté (Romain de Tirtoff). The ripple-effect silver exterior is achieved by layering sheets of metal veneer – a process that takes over 100 hours – to create a truly tactile treasure box.
Although best known as a luxury jewellery brand and buyer of some of the world’s most famous diamonds, Harry Winston also has a solid track record in making great watches. This piece, from its Premier Feathers collection, is a case in point. Supremely gifted feather artist Nelly Saunier is responsible for this beautifully decorated (and ethically sourced) dial, which features silvered pheasant and guinea fowl feathers and a case set with 67 diamonds. RRP £36,500 www.harrywinston.com
RRP £10,330 www.davidlinley.com
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FOR HIM AND HER Haute Italian perfume house Xerjoff presents the world’s most refined Iris perfume, IRISSS, in technicolour Murano glass pouchettes. Suitable for both men and women – as many niche, high-end scents are – the fragrance features iris, carrot seeds, rose, ylang-ylang, woodsy notes, resin, incense and musk.
LOOK LIKE MARILYN This highly acclaimed cream from celebrity skincare specialist (Marilyn Monroe was a fan) is a rich, emollient formulation that preserves firm skin and a youthful appearance. Antioxidant compounds help to neutralise pollutants while sweet almond oil hydrates and pine extract protects the skin and leaves it feeling refreshed. Light, creamy and the perfect pick-me-up for tired eyes, this luxury skincare product makes a visible difference.
RRP €550 www.xerjoff.com
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RRP £225 www.ernolaszlo.com TWEET TWEET Let the tiniest of birds make the biggest statement, courtesy of London-based jewellery designer Theo Fennell’s Hummingbird drop earrings in 18ct rose and white gold, blue topaz and pink tourmaline. An intricate and fun piece, hand-crafted in Fennell’s Chelsea workshop. RRP £7,800 www.theofennell.com
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IN THE SPECTACULAR SCOTTISH HEBRIDES, SHANE WASIK IS TAKING ADVENTURE SEEKERS INTO THE WATER TO SWIM WITH TEEMING SCHOOLS OF THE SECOND-BIGGEST SHARK IN THE WORLD. LUCKILY, THE WHISKY IS CLOSE AT HAND. Words by Don Hoyt Gorman
SHARKWATER
WE SAW THIS REALLY BIG INTEREST IN SHARK DIVING EMERGING ALL OVER THE WORLD, AND THOUGHT, WELL WE’VE GOT PLENTY OF BASKING SHARKS HERE, PERHAPS PEOPLE WOULD WANT TO COME AND SEE THEM WITH US TOO. – SHANE WASIK
PREVIOUS PAGE Shark divers believe the Jaws film effect is starting to wane with more adventurers keen to dive with sharks. ABOVE Shark expert Shane Wasik calls jumping in the water to join his shark dives, the world's "shark nightclub".
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magine sitting in a RIB, engine off, somewhere off the coast of Scotland. All around you in the water, enormous black dorsal fins cut swaths back and forth. This is the moment when Shane Wasik pulls on his scuba mask and invites you to do the same, roll backwards off the boat and into the water, joining the party that Wasik calls, the world’s “shark nightclub.” Growing up in coastal Scotland and learning the skills of scuba diving young, Shane knows the local waters and its bounty of marine life intimately. As a commercial diver and underwater photographer with a degree in marine biology, when the popularity of shark diving started to rise only a few years ago, he was ideally positioned and fully equipped to take other divers to see the local shark population. Of all the area’s most spectacular marine creatures, one of the largest and most fascinating is the basking shark, an enormous migratory fish that comes to Scotland every year in the summer to feed. Unlike its toothy cousins the Great White and Tiger sharks that feed on larger fish or animals, basking sharks’ teeth are small, and they feed on plankton, but it more than makes up for that in size. On average, Basking Sharks grow 6-10m long and are found filter feeding plankton by swimming with their enormous mouths wide open. Importantly for thrill seekers, they are not aggressive and are harmless to humans. “We saw this really big interest in shark diving emerging all over the world, and thought, well we’ve got plenty of basking sharks here, perhaps people would want to come and see them with us too,” says Shane.
Shane says that he thinks the Jaws film effect, which instilled a deep fear of sharks in people, has started to wane as more research into shark behaviour demystifies this majestic family of fish. “There is a growing number of shark-fan divers around the world who plan their holidays around getting into the water to see, photograph and video sharks of all species.” “Still, it’s amazing when we get novice divers joining us or even people who just want to observe from the boat. The big dorsal fin cutting through the water still elicits all those emotions in them, which is actually really fun to see, and it’s exhilarating for them. Sometimes we’ll get to a small area and there will be up to 20 sharks all feeding, their huge dorsal fins all around our boat. You can imagine some of the reactions we’ve seen. But it’s really great to be able to help people overcome a fear. And from a wildlife point of view, people really want to see them and when they do, they’re blown away.” Big sharks are drawn to the specific population of their food source: White sharks hunt seals so will go to seal colonies. Basking sharks on the other hand search for plankton blooms, which are less visible to people. Still Shane’s local knowledge of the bays and coastal waters coupled with more advanced methods of predicting where the plankton will be gives him a very consistently high level of contact when he sets out with guests. Last season his success was around the 75 per cent mark over the entire season, with near 100 per cent in August, which is a fantastic spot-rate for a migratory animal.
The waters around the Inner Hebrides are famously clear of silt, making them excellent for seeing the gentle giants as they swim. The plankton, when they bloom, however, can render the waters a soupy with life - precisely why the basking sharks congregate in such numbers. “When the plankton blooms, they turn up in huge numbers, and just feed all day, swimming in circles everywhere. It’s a spectacle.” The UK government has been looking into establishing a wind farm in the Hebrides, and as part of an environmental assessment conducted a survey of the number of basking sharks in the area. In one day last August, government researchers tallied 918 of the creatures off the coast. “Until they did that study, nobody realised how many of them we had around here. That’s an astonishing number.” Animal behaviourists believe that, like other big migratory creatures, basking sharks likely turn up in one of
several key locations once a year to mate. Shane may be operating his dive operation in the midst of one of the most important basking shark sites anywhere in the world. Shane, who is a qualified commercial diver for working on wrecks or simply clearing tangled mooring lines from props, is also a highly accomplished underwater photographer whose images and videos of his basking shark exploits have helped his tour company gain international attention. This coast of Scotland is under proposal to be established as a marine-protected area, so rich is the wildlife and natural beauty. On his dive trips Shane frequently takes guests to see the seal colonies and soft-coral reefs, and the waters nearby are frequented by some of the most exciting marine mammals, like Orca, Minke Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins. A true adventurer, Shane also organises
dive trips to remote sites across the region, including newly discovered bodies of water like the Belnahua quarry or Fingals Cave on the Island of Staffa. Obviously, Scotland is already established as one of the world’s great tourist destinations, though thankfully still relatively untrammelled, with Tobermory, various distilleries and some of the more typical Scottish attractions. “Going out diving with sharks isn’t something that a lot of people have realised can be part of their exploration of this part of Scotland,” Shane says. “I think the word is starting to get out.” TOP A basking shark pictured from above the water as a photographer aims to get up close. BELOW Diving with basking sharks could be a way to overcome your fear of these underwater creatures.
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From Scotland's basking sharks to giant manta rays in Mexico, there are many opportunities to explore the beauty of the world's deep sea creatures.
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The Inner Hebrides, Scotland Basking sharks, seal colonies, minke whales 2
Malpelo Island, Colombia (Pacific) Hammerhead shark, silky sharks 3
Revillagigedo Islands, Mexico (Pacific) Hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays
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Great Barrier Reef, Australia Nurse, whitetip, blacktip sharks and wobbegongs 5
Durban, South Africa Great white sharks 6
Palau, South Pacific Whitetip and blacktip sharks
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Kuredu, Maldives Reef sharks and whale sharks 8
Guadeloupe Island, California Great white sharks 9
Malapascua Island, Philippines Thresher sharks, whitetip and hammerhead sharks
SIMPLY exquisite
PERSONAL TASTES BEST LUXURY YACHT? CHECK! WATERFRONT MANSION? CHECK! PRIVATE JET? CHECK! WHAT’S MISSING IS YOUR PERSONAL HELICOPTER, EXOTIC CAR, OR LUXURY TENDER. WANT THE SAME HELICOPTER USED BY THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT? PREFER A PERSONALISED MERCEDES-BENZ TENDER FOR YOUR YACHT? OR MAYBE YOU LONG FOR THE SAME CUSTOM BENTLEY USED BY THE ROYAL COUPLE KATE AND WILLIAM ON THEIR OUTINGS? ALL OF THESE LUXURIES AND MORE ARE AVAILABLE SIMPLY BY RUNNING YOUR CREDIT CARD THROUGH THE SLOT. BUT YOU HAVE TO KNOW ABOUT THEM FIRST. LET’S TAKE A LOOK AT THE NEWEST AND MOST DESIRABLE VEHICLES. Words by Chris Caswell
TO EXPERIENCE THE FINEST ADDRESSES ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA and Marbella France: +33(0)643 918 978 • Info@domainedeluxe.com www.domainedeluxe.com
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I TOP The interior of PrivatSea's newest owner tender, which can hold up to 10 passengers. ABOVE The personal tender designed for its 78m mothership. PREVIOUS PAGE The Bentley Flying Spur, recently purchased by Prince William and Kate Middleton, is bullet proof with triple-glazed windows and puncture-proof tyres.
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t wasn’t long ago that a Riva was considered the ultimate tender to your yacht, but no more. Take, for example, the bespoke eight-metre tender limousine created by PrivatSea for a 78-metre primary motoryacht. Using a proven hull for seaworthy comfort, the tender can speed guests to shore at 35 knots, while luxurious white leather seating cossets up to 10 passengers. The entire roof lifts for pleasant weather excursions, and a large hatch allows guests to board from the teak stern platform without having to stoop. If your preferences run towards Rolls-Royce, then the Rolls-powered Aeroboat from yacht designer Claydon Reeves should tickle your fancy. Using a V-12 Rolls-Royce Merlin engine like those used in Spitfires to win the Battle of Britain, the Aeroboat will have a top speed of over 50 knots and, with only 10 being built at a cost of €3.6 million each, place your order now. Built of carbon fibre, each Aeroboat is bespoke for an owner’s needs. Seven passengers are carried on shock-mounted seats, and the cabin includes a double berth and head compartment. Mercedes Benz more to your liking? Then the Silver Arrow 460 Granturismo from the Silver Arrows Marine division of Mercedes-Benz Style is 14 meters of lean, sensual styling that harkens back to the Mercedes grand prix cars of the ‘30s and ‘50s. Powered by twin diesels and costing €1.25 million, the 460 will have an open-plan interior with seating
for 10 in a décor of nubuck leather and eucalyptus woods. The Edition 1 of just 10 yachts will also include such amenities as windows that darken according to the intensity of the sun. Seemingly straight from a science fiction movie, the Jet Capsule makes fun of itself with the motto, “We just landed on this planet, where there’s lots of water!” The bubble-shaped 7.5m boat can be configured into a variety of uses, from yacht tender to a weekend explorer. Powered by waterjets, the Jet Capsule can reach speeds of 25 knots and is sure to cause a stir wherever it goes. Helicopters have become a status symbol aboard luxury yachts, where they serve as aerial tenders, often picking up guests directly from an airport. Whirly-birds are also used for shore excursions to snow-capped glaciers for skiing or mountain meadows for fly-fishing, and they are ideal for picking up last-minute ingredients for a special meal or to bring fresh flowers aboard. One popular model is the Eurocopter EC135, a twin-engined helo that provides 25 per cent of the world’s air ambulance services and sized for most megayachts. But you don’t want just any EC135, you want one such as the Hermès version. Tastefully upgraded by the world’s most opulent luxury accessories maker, this 178 mph chopper will set you back about €4.5 million. It carries five passengers plus pilot and Hermès luggage, and the
interior features Hermès calf leather seats with walls covered in Hermès ‘Toile H’ fabrics. There is even a pair of Hermès binoculars, so guests can view the passing scenery. Since the EC135 is yacht sized, it’s no surprise that Mercedes-Benz jumped in, just as with tenders. The Mercedes version of the Eurocopter ups the ante with a flexible seating arrangement featuring sumptuous leathers and wood paneling. With the seats on rails, this version draws on the modular design of their R-Class crossover automobile. Seating up to eight people, the interior can quickly be rearranged to make room for luggage as large as golf bags and bicycles. Also about €4.5 million, your choice. If Versace is your style and you want a little larger whirly-bird, opt for the AugustaWestland AW109
Grand Versace VIP. Yes, this is a Versace version produced by the Italian fashion house in their black-and-white colour scheme, which runs about €4.6 million. The Grand in the name means the cabin is slightly larger than a standard AW109, giving extra space for the eight guests. But if you really want to strut your helicopter, your only choice is the AugustaWestland AW101 VVIP. The VVIP, of course, stands for Very Very Important Person, which would put you in the same category as the American President, who ordered three to serve as Marine One, the Presidential helicopter. True, it won’t fit on many yacht decks but, with a speed of 192mph, a range of 863 miles, and a price tag of €15.5 million, who cares?
TOP The Eurocopter by Mercedes retails at €4.5 million. ABOVE LEFT Mercedes' version of the Eurocopter offers a flexible seating arrangement, sumptuous leathers. RIGHT The AugustaWestland AW109 Grand Versace VIP was designed by the Italian fashion house with a black-and-white colour scheme. FAR RIGHT The interiors of the AugustaWestland AW101 VVIP are for very very important people.
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THE 200MPH BUGATTI VEYRON WAS ONCE THE MOST EXPENSIVE CAR IN THE WORLD.
TOP The 200mph Bugatti Veyron was once the most expensive car in the world. ABOVE RIGHT The Silver Arrow 460 Grandturismo, from the Marine division of Mercedes Benz, is 14 metres of lean, sensual styling. 74
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When it comes to cars, you might start by looking at royalty. Prince William and his new wife recently took delivery of their Bentley Flying Spur, but this isn’t just any Bentley. It’s bulletproof, courtesy of ballistic steel plating, with triple-glazed windows and punctureproof tires. But this is no tank, either: the Flying Spur will top out at around 200mph in case you need a quick getaway. And it’s not Spartan, either, with luxuries such as a champagne bottle cooler and quilted leather seats with massage capabilities. The 200mph Bugatti Veyron was once the most expensive car in the world at €1.9 million, but it’s down the list these days. Tops (for now, anyway) is
the Maybach Exelero (€5.9 million) of which only one has been built, followed by the Koenigsegg Trevita (€3.5 million) with one of the three owned by American TV host and car collector Jay Leno. Those make the Aston Martin One-77 a steal at €1.3 million, but you won’t be alone: 77 of the 220mph supercar are being built. Called “living automotive art” by the builder, this two-door coupe is the fastest Aston Martin ever, and can go from zero to 60 in less than three seconds. So there you have a dozen of the most expensive and exotic vehicles in the world. Which will you choose?
CHILLING OUT IF YOU ASK OWNERS AND CHARTER GUESTS WHAT THEY LOVE ABOUT YACHTING, IT IS USUALLY PRIVACY, ESCAPE AND THE ABILITY TO EXPERIENCE PARTS OF THE WORLD INACCESSIBLE TO MANY OTHERS. INVARIABLY, THE VISIONS CONJURED OF SUPERYACHTS AND DESERTED ISLANDS WITH PRISTINE BEACHES AND TURQUOISE WATERS FEATURE PALM TREES, TROPICAL FISH AND SUNSHINE. HOWEVER, WHAT ABOUT COMBINING THESE ELEMENTS WITH ICEBERGS, PENGUINS AND DOWN JACKETS? AS MORE SUPERYACHT ADVENTURERS SEEK OUT THE LUXURY OF ISOLATION, PRIVATSEA TALKS TO OWNERS WHO HAVE DISCOVERED THE UNMATCHED BEAUTY THAT CAN BE FOUND CHILLING OUT. Words by Angela Audretsch
CHILLING OUT
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It is difficult to explain to someone who might have only been to the Mediterranean,” says Jan Verkerk, owner of 70m M/Y Sherakhan. “The whole feeling in colder places is something completely different.” Verkerk is speaking from experience. A charter yacht with a difference, able to accommodate up to 26 guests, Sherakhan has been to all the usual spots in Europe and the Caribbean, however, in February 2013 she embarked on an epic expedition to Antarctica. “Antarctica is a very special destination,” he tells us. “It is the most beautiful place that I have ever been in the world, it is that simple. There are no bars, no discos, no private jets — you are back to nature.” Verkerk describes seas of penguins, pods of 20m whales riding the waves of the bow like dolphins, icebergs as big as skyscrapers and thousands of sea lions lining the beaches. “Guests were on deck all the time,” he remembers. “When we arrived in South Georgia, for example, the first thing we saw were three whales right next to the boat and the next thing we saw was 2,000 sea lions. It is all so overwhelming, you don’t know where to look, you drop anchor and you are in the middle of nowhere amongst nature. If we took the tender out we had to clap to scare away the baby sea lions so we didn’t run them over. And none of them are in any way scared of you. It is fantastic.” The wildlife was also one of the major draws for the owner of M/Y Arcadia, a 35.8m explorer yacht, when he took the yacht through the Northwest Passage in 2011. “Polar bears, whales, eagles, all right on your doorstep,” he says. “It was special.” But for the owner, it was the complete isolation that made the journey so unique for both he and his wife. Greenland, the Northwest Passage and Svalbard were some of the most memorable trips the couple took on board Arcadia. “One of the things that made these trips so memorable was that we were up there alone. Over those three places, we maybe saw three other yachts.”
You don’t need to reject all society in order to enjoy the colder climes though. When the 35.7m sailing yacht Canova was launched at Finland’s Baltic Yachts in 2011, her owner Dario Segre took the opportunity to explore some of the surrounding Scandinavian coastline. “It was the first time for me to visit these Nordic countries,” he says. “I was very much looking forward to it and it completely lived up to my expectations. Besides the famous and wonderful towns such as Stockholm, Copenhagen and Bergen, I enjoyed very much sailing in the Norwegian fjords, narrow, deep and surrounded by mountains and everlasting glaciers.” Canova’s captain, Luigi Nava, recalls how they gathered interest from the locals who had never seen anything like Canova before. However, the onlookers were not the only ones unused to superyachts. According to Captain Nava, there was one tense moment when the yacht had to sail under a 49m bridge knowing its mast stood at 50m. “We uninstalled all our antennas on the mast to gave an extra half-metre clearance,” he remembers. “The boats around us were all watching and cheering. It took a while but we made it!” Segre says that while there was few marinas around that could accommodate the yacht’s deep draught he preferred the peaceful anchorages they stopped at. Adding to the adventure is the lower climates typical of these regions. Segre says the climate cannot be compared to the typical Mediterranean hotspots or tropical locations, with varying water degrees averaging at 16 degrees. However, he emphasises that the landscape fully rewards the lack of opportunities for swimming. Sherakhan’s Verkerk says that outside the Antarctica, there are many unique activities and brave guests can even don a wetsuit in most cold spots, enjoying almost exactly the same activities as they can in the Med. “In Antarctica it is all about the wildlife, but in Norway when you go into the fjords, for example, you can go hunting, you can go on helicopter tours, you can go diving, you can go on jetskis,” he says. “Basically anything you can do in the Med you can do there, except maybe swimming!”
PREVIOUS PAGE M/Y Arcadia navigates the Northwest Passage. Photo by Luc Hardy. LEFT M/Y Sherakan embarked on an epic trip to the Antarctica last year. ABOVE The owners of S/Y Canova fell in love with the Scandonavian coastline. RIGHT The local penguins are numbered in the millions.
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CAN YOU IMAGINE TWO MILLION PENGUINS ALL LOOKING AT YOU, SOME RUNNING TO YOUR PURSE AND TRYING TO STEAL YOUR THINGS? THIS IS HOW [ANTARCTICA] IS NOW, COMPLETELY UNSPOILED AT THE MOMENT BUT THIS MAY NOT LAST. – JAN VERKERK, OWNER OF M/Y SHERAKHAN
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For families who think that perhaps children will get stir-crazy on a trip with no swimming or beach time, adventures like these are a great chance to get them inspired, learning about the wider word. Sherakhan had a tutor on board, as well as a worldfamous nature photographer and marine scientists to teach guests about what they were seeing. For Verkerk, there is no better time than now to
THIS PAGE Above: Arcadia cruised through Greenland, the Northwest Passage and Svalbard, where few yachts dare to venture. OPPOSITE PAGE Top: A photograph of the stunning ice formations taken from on board Sherakhan by a world-famous nature photographer. Bottom: Marine scientists taught guests about the wildlife they were seeing on board Sherakhan. 80
experience these places. “Can you imagine two million penguins all looking at you, some running to your purse and trying to steal your things?” he asks. “This is how it is now, completely unspoiled, but this may not last.” With this in mind, Verkerk has purchased a new yacht, a 70m A1 ice breaker that he intends to charter in the northern hemisphere, taking in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, the Arctic and the Northwest Passage, while Sherakhan will start a world tour of the southern hemisphere next year, hopefully including Antarctica again. As the pace of life continues to quicken, and the predictable superyacht destinations in the warmer parts of the world become more popular, the need to find those special escapes where you can fully relax, retreat and experience something truly special is becoming more important to owners. “You really are taken back to your roots,” says Verkerk. “You can go to the best clubs in St Tropez, and after you can go to the best club in Monaco, and maybe then Portofino, but if you put them all together, there is nothing particularly memorable about them. When you go to somewhere like Antarctica there is really something special.”
M/Y KHOZAM, FOR SALE THROUGH PRIVATSEA, IS THE PERFECT VESSEL FOR CRUISING OFF THE BEATEN TRACK. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT INFO@PRIVATSEA.COM 81
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