Sailing yacht MOONBEAM IV restored in time for Fife Regatta
Classic 118-year-old sailing yacht MOONBEAM IV has been restored at JFA Yachts in time for her performance in the Fife Regatta taking place mid-June 2022.
Designed and built by Scottish architect William Fife in 1914, 35m/115t sailing yacht MOONBEAM IV was constructed with a teak wood hull and superstructure, both of which required stripping back and replacing in some sections.
The work took place at Brest between November 2021 and May 2022, where JFA Yachts worked with expert naval carpentry shipyard Hubert Stagnol to strip and overhaul the hull, giving her a new topcoat of ‘Vanilla White’, which was then followed up with an Awlgrip topcoat.
JFA Yachts’ carpenters restored the skylights, while Hubert Stagnol’s carpenters sanded and revarnished the bulwarks and Oregon pine rig. The head mast was replaced, and mechanical maintenance was completed before S/Y received new sails with her characteristic number 8, followed up by tests.
Now that MOONBEAM IV has proven her readiness to return to the sea, she will be cruising to Scotland to take part in the Fife Regatta, running 10-17 June 2022 in Fairlie.
50-metre motor yacht KINDA from Tankoa Yachts delivered
Italian shipyard Tankoa Yachts has delivered its 4th hull from the S501 model luxury yacht KINDA.
At 50m/164ft, superyacht KINDA offers an abundance of room for indoor and outdoor living. Both her interior and exterior styling come from Francesco Paszkowski, who gave her a modern appearance with a plumb bow, strong lines and an athletic appearance.
The naval architecture from the Tankoa Yachts in-house team in collaboration with NAMES by Francesco Rogantin ensures excellent seaworthiness with a fuel-efficient design. There are three different cruising modes available: diesel-mechanical, diesel-electric and full-electric, the latter granting environmentally friendly cruising in sensitive environments.
Few details have yet been revealed of the 499 GT interior volume; however, M/Y KINDA is known to accommodate up to 12 guests across 6 en-suite cabins, with the VIP stateroom and Master suite both placed on the main deck. There is also accommodation for a crew of 11, who will provide fast and discreet service throughout every cruise.
Superyacht KINDA will make her public debut at the Monaco yacht Show 2022 taking place in September.
Take your summer celebrations to the Balearic Islands aboard luxury charter yacht NIKO III
Roam between the Balearic Islands for culture, shopping, beautiful beaches and the party lifestyle with the luxury charter yacht NIKO III.
Built in 2012 and refitted in 2018, this 30.6m/100.5ft Custom Line yacht is ready to party with a flybridge Jacuzzi and wet bar facilities, and room for up to 30 guests for dockside events. Sunbeds are abundant on board for lazy days relaxing in a quiet anchorage, and the outdoor lounging and dining facilities on the main deck and flybridge will have you relishing spending time outdoors from dawn until long after dusk.
Convivial contemporary interiors in strong earthy hues create a welcoming environment where multi-generational families, groups of friends or a honeymooning couple can rest in comfort after an action-packed day.
Superyacht NIKO III is capable of a top speed of 23 knots, a cruising speed of 16 knots and an island-hopping range of 500 nautical miles. Spend hours enjoying the warm blue waters in secluded bays using the great selection of water toys, which includes:
1 x Seadoo jetski
2 x Stand-up paddleboards
1 x 2-seater kayak
snorkelling equipment
inflatables, and
a Seabob available on request
The accommodation sleeps up to 12 guests in 5 en-suite cabins: 1 Master suite, 2 VIP staterooms and 2 twin cabins, both of which have a Pullman berth. The enthusiastic crew of 5 will provide stellar service throughout your time on board.
View more of motor yacht NIKO III.
The Mediterranean Yacht Show returns to Greece charter grounds for successful 7th edition
The Mediterranean Yacht Show (MEDYS) is the world’s largest yacht charter show, and it has returned for its spectacular 7th edition at Nafplion, Greece, after a two-year absence due to the worldwide pandemic.
This highly respected event for industry professionals ran from 30th April to 4th May 2022, organised by the Greek Yachting Association with the support of the Municipality of Nafplion. 90 registered yachts were in attendance and together they filled the designated show space, leaving on a waiting list another 20 luxury charter yachts that were hoping to show off their amenities, living areas and talented crews.
MEDYS had 30 countries from across the world represented, and the 31 exhibitors showcased essential and innovative yacht-related products and services. Over 610 yacht brokers attended the 2022 edition, among them brokers from CharterWorld including Trina Howes. Over the five-day event, she took the opportunity to examine the vessels up close, and learn more about their crews and the services each charter vessel can offer its future guests.
The event was held online as the first Virtual Yacht Charter Shows during 2020 and 2021, however, these digital editions could not capture one of the most anticipated highlights of the physical event: The Chefs’ Competition. The panel of judges consisted of experienced yacht brokers and Angelo Lantos, who is the chef of the 2 Michelin-starred restaurants Spondi, and Thanos Stasinos, the chef of restaurants Huracan in Athens, Pacific in Monte Carlo and Ritz Carlton in Valencia.
“The Chefs’ Competition was a lot of fun,” commented Trina Howes. “It was so hard to choose a favourite as they delivered tasty dishes almost across the board, (even if it was vegan!). It was a terrific opportunity to see each chef’s creativity come to the table, and charter clients in Greece will not be disappointed.”
The Greece charter grounds have always been a favourite destination for luxury yachts, where myriad islands that would otherwise be out of reach are now just an afternoon nap away. From the otherworldly beauty of the Ionian Islands and the sailing haven of the Saronic Gulf to the partying and Scuba diving wonders of the Cyclades and the multi-cultural Dodecanese Islands, a single visit will leave you wondering what else there is to find.
Here are our ‘7 most beautiful luxury yacht charter destinations in Greece’ to get you started on plans for your own Eastern Mediterranean epic.
Yachts ENTERPRISE and ATTITUDE: Two Bagliettos launched within a weekend
The last weekend in May was a busy one for the Baglietto shipyard in La Spezia, Italy: Luxury yacht ATTITUDE was launched on Saturday followed by 38m/124.8ft luxury yacht ENTERPRISE the following day.
All-aluminium motor yacht ENTERPRISE has an explorer-style appearance and features a plumb bow as part of her exterior styling by Francesco Paszkowski Design. The interiors were mostly designed by the Owner’s wife in collaboration with the Baglietto in-house team for a personal touch combined with top quality materials.
At 440 GT, she is the largest 38-metre vessel by volume ever built. A pair of Caterpillar C32 engines give a top speed of 18 knots, and a transatlantic range will take her Owner and guests to cruising grounds the world over.
M/Y ENTERPRISE will make her world debut at the Monaco Yacht Show 2022.
41m Baglietto motor yacht ATTITUDE back on the water, ready for completion
Italian shipyard Baglietto has announced that 41m/134.6ft luxury yacht ATTITUDE, known as DOM 133 during construction, is back on the water after a private ceremony in La Spezia, attended by her Owner and his family.
M/Y ATTITUDE received a technical launch in March, however, the Owner could not be in attendance. This special ceremony was a worthy celebration of the work from the shipyard staff and the teams behind her naval architecture, exterior styling by Stefano Vafiadis and interiors by Ezequiel Farca.
Onboard there is a spacious salon on the main deck where the full-height windows open to create an effortless flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor areas boast a sundeck swimming pool and a main deck infinity pool that has a lifting bottom to lie flush with the rest of the deck. The beach club below offers shade and comfort for life beside the water, and this prestigious boat builder has no doubt left plenty of room for the Owner’s choice of water toys and tenders. In the engine room, a pair of Caterpillar C32 engines provide a top speed of 17 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots, at which she has a range of 3,500 nautical miles.
Technical specifications reveal a draft of 2.10m/7ft for accessing shallow cruising grounds and accommodation for up to 10 guests and a crew of 8.
Superyacht ATTITUDE will make her premiere at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2022, running from the 6th to 11th of September, after which she will be on display at the Monaco Yacht Show 2022 from the 28th of September to the 1st of October.
A broker’s insight: Luxury yacht charter along the Croatian Coast in 2022
Croatia is an amazing luxury yacht charter destination, and because the Eastern Mediterranean has a very warm spring and autumn, visitors can enjoy its charms almost throughout the year. My recent familiarisation trip along the Dalmatian Coast is a great example of what you can expect for your own week-long charter, but you can always customise it more to your interests.
Dubrovnik
Arriving in Dubrovnik on May 7th, I was booked into a small boutique hotel within the old city, an amazing place with so much history and so many things to do – from shop hop and dine out on various local cuisines, to guided tours and free-roaming the culture-rich streets. We opted to walk the outer walls ourselves and take in some amazing views. The old city is inhabited by around 1,500 permanent residents; no cars are allowed in, so it really has a lovely fresh air feel despite the close proximity of buildings and walls.
It’s possible to kayak around the city walls, and the Old Town is the most atmospheric with plenty of attractions around every corner. There are a few city beaches, but if you’re already aboard your own charter yacht, why not head off to Otok Lokrum or one of the other nearby islands? Mljet and Lastovo are great destinations for playing in the water or hiking along the trails.
Split
On May 8th we set off for Split to board our 37m yacht NAVILUX for the next few days. 12 guests are accommodated over 6 spacious cabins; mine was starboard aft and had a large bed, desk, sofa and en-suite. The crew of 8 are incredible, such kind and attentive people. NAVILUX is well laid out with a huge open plan salon complete with a formal dining area, entertainment lounge and what proved to be a very popular cocktail bar. Surrounded by panoramic windows, there is plenty of light and fantastic views.
There are 3 yachts in the trip (ACAPELLA, NAVILUX and LOTUS) and 1 hosting the first night (LIBRA), so tonight we stayed at the dock, we all boarded host yacht LIBRA, a 31m/101.8ft traditional gulet. The chef put on an amazing spread of tapas-style foods, mostly authentic Croatian fare that was delicious. In the morning a group of us had a look around the shops and castle in Split, before setting off to Stari Grad, Hvar for the 2nd night.
The most famous sight in Split is the Diocletian’s Palace, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth a visit. There’s also Jupiter’s Temple nearby and lots of galleries and museums. But if you just want to stretch your legs, the scenic peninsula ‘Park Šuma Marjan’ is a great place to go and be in nature.
Stari Grad, Hvar
May 9th we made way for Stari Grad (which literally translates to ‘old town’). Stern to moored with the 3 yachts side by side, we had the chance to look around a bit before joining 2 gracious tour guides. They walked us through some of the highlights of this area, with some stunning gardens included. Croatia is famous for lavender, which was everywhere. We all hopped into 2 vans and headed across the Stari Grad Plain for Vrboska, after which we enjoyed a wine tasting at Caric winery. Croatian wines are absolutely amazing! We sampled sparkling, whites and reds. To accompany the wines were beautiful cheeses, my favourite being the rosemary-infused, olives, anchovies, and even chocolate. Upon returning to the yacht, the chef had laid out some light refreshments aboard NAVILUX.
May 10th After another fantastic breakfast of eggs any style to order, accompanied by an assortment of platters, offering fresh fruit, smoked salmon, cheeses, cereals, freshly squeezed juices, coffee and tea, we all took the opportunity to stretch our legs before setting off for the day. A couple of hours later we anchored across from Hvar main town for a lunch break and water toy fun. Out came the SUPs and sea bobs; not having tried a SUP yet, I took the opportunity to do so and quite liked it. Swimming was on the agenda, followed by a fresh rinse and time in the Jacuzzi.
Lunch today was aboard the gorgeous 49m modern gulet ACAPELLA, consisting of a homemade tomato soup, John dory fish paired with asparagus wrapped in a crispy tomato style wrapping and fluffy potato salad. The dessert offered, was a refreshing lemon-infused ice cream and a side of fresh whipped cream, just the ticket on a warm summer day in Croatia. A quick nip across the bay and we were in Hvar main town for the night, where we had the chance to sample the local restaurants. 4 of us found a truly authentic place right on the water and simply had to try the recommended wild boar, Croatian styled beef and even a dish we cannot still pronounce, called Cevapcici (a beef mince made into a kofta style meal with local seasonings). A fairly tired lot, we opted to head back to the yacht for the night and rest up for the next day.
The Pakleni Islands just off the coast of Hvar Town are a favourite spot for luxury yachts to anchor, and it’s not hard to see why: the bays are sheltered, the waters warm and crystal clear, and there are many beaches if you want to play and dine onshore.
Vis
May 11th. Another amazing breakfast and it is time to make way to the island of Vis. What a stunning island that is full of history! The port is laid back with a few small eateries but as it is early in the season, most were yet to open. Nonetheless, we still explore on foot, before heading back to enjoy lunch aboard NAVILUX. Served as a delicious starter of homemade pasta filled with seafood, followed by a beautiful filet of steak in a dark fruit reduction, desert with a stunning deconstructed cheesecake.
At 3 pm it is time to really explore Vis, in 4 land rovers with 4 guides, learning so much about the flora and fauna, the wars of the past, the ruler’s cave up a mountain of rock steps (his hideout), and getting to walk through the war bunker that remains intact as it was never officially put into operation.
From here we went to see the submarine bunker, an amazing feat of engineering inserted right into the side of the mountain, which is accessible on foot down either side. Heading back to port, the land rovers drop us off and everyone gets ready for dinner. Tonight, I am invited to join the gulet LOTUS for dinner, a 27m/88.7ft 2018 build, for up to 8 guests. Her happy smiling crew greet us and offers refreshments as we are seated. The talented chef serves a delectable menu starting with a homemade shrimp taco, and avocado side, followed by the main of tuna steak on a butternut squash puree. Desert was a feast for the eyes and a very unique dish, of a rice-based semi-sweet dish, fruit sauce and ice cream.
Ravnik Islet has a famous and beautiful Green Cave, but beware – famous usually means busy during the summer season, so pick the time you visit carefully. The Blue Lagoon at Budikovak Island is stunning, and getting out on the water by SUP or kayak is highly recommended to truly appreciate its hue.
Trogir
On May 12th, We depart Vis after breakfast to head towards Trogir, stopping along the way for one last swim, lunch and a visit to the gulet SEA BREEZE, who kindly came to us. They pulled out all the stops putting on a lovely spread of tapas, and local liquor to wash it down with. The traditional gulet is a 28m/92ft yacht with the launch in 2019: Her interiors are incredibly spacious and elegant, and a great price range for up to 12 charter guests.
Lunch was had aboard NAVILUX for me, and was absolutely stunning, starting with a beautifully presented beef tartar, after which was a perfectly cooked and seasoned fresh snapper on a bed of spinach, completed with a very creative dome of cheesecake topped with a yoghurt crumb – something all the diners wanted to know how it was made! After this stop we make our way to the anchorage near the main town of Trogir, we go ashore to explore the many bars, eateries, shops, stands, historical sites and old town sections. We dine locally at a restaurant for dinner tonight, where we enjoy great food and lovely wines. A choice of tapas was laid out before us, and dinner was a la carte, with myself choosing the Croatian styled and excellent Squid.
May 13th, Sadly, this is the end of our fabulous time in Croatia, a truly exceptional country, with so much to offer and explore:
“The people are friendly and very proud of their heritage and culture. The food is mouth-watering and the wines all were stunning. All the crews on the yachts we were on we extremely hospitable, and I would go back in a heartbeat!”
Want to know more about yacht charter in Croatia, the Adriatic or the wider Eastern Mediterranean charter grounds? Now’s the time to seize your own big summer adventure.
Take a summer break aboard classic luxury charter yacht Ciutadella in the Western Mediterranean
Classic 1967-built luxury yacht CIUTADELLA is now available for small group adventures in the culture-rich Western Mediterranean charter grounds.
She measures 25.7m/84.2ft and was refitted in 2021 to restore her to as-new condition while retaining all of her original charm. The timeless interiors feature white painted panels and ceilings which emphasise the sense of space within, while traditional wooden flooring and joinery accompanied by pastel-coloured accents complete her 60s style.
Outside, sunbeds are available forward and aft, and guests can dine alfresco under the cockpit canopy or take drinks at sunset on the foredeck sofa.
Motor yacht CIUTADELLA has a top speed of 25 knots, a fast-cruising speed of 18 knots and a range of 800 nautical miles for island-hopping and visiting multiple destinations in popular locations such as the French Riviera, Italian Riviera or the Amalfi Coast. The is a choice selection of water toys, and the collection includes:
1 x Seadoo jet ski
1 x wakeboard
paddle surf boards
snorkelling gear, and
an inflatable buoy
The accommodation sleeps up to 6 guests in 3 cabins: 1 Master suite, 1 VIP stateroom and 1 bunk cabin, while the expert crew of 2 will provide fast and discreet service throughout the cruise.
View more of luxury yacht CIUTADELLA.
Chic French Riviera and Monaco destinations to visit on a luxury yacht charter
As the world’s stars descend on the French Riviera for the summer, then stay in this chic luxury yacht charter ground that is at its most enchanting over the upcoming months. And why would they want to leave, with so much on offer?
With the advantage of staying on a luxury yacht, you have privacy, peace and freedom to roam where you please. Make the most of your spare time on a family charter, wedding charter or honeymoon charter while looked after by a highly trained crew and all modern entertainments at your fingertips.
The South of France has welcomed society for centuries, leaving behind refined villas to complement its medieval streets, castles and fortresses that conceal history and wealth within. These most loved destinations are perennially elegant for meaningful and memorable adventures.
Saint-Tropez & Pampelonne Beach
There are plenty of places to party along the Cote d’Azur, but one of the top places to see and be seen is Saint-Tropez and Pampelonne Beach. Take a leisurely stroll through town to admire the waterfront and picturesque streets, where artists gather to capture the moment in the summer light. Discover modern galleries and museums to find out more about the picturesque town’s past, and ascend the hill to the Citadel of Saint-Tropez for sweeping views of the harbour and its interior maritime museum.
You’ll have your choice of the bars and clubs in town, but famous names such as Nikki Beach, La Reserve and Verde are to be found along Pampelonne Beach. These refined eateries each offer a unique environment with all of life’s little luxuries on hand. Relax on the warm soft sands or play on the water toys in the clear, shallow waters, which are also ideal for young families to play together and gain confidence.
Cap d’Antibes
The laid-back pace that Antibes and its cape offers fits perfectly with the yachting lifestyle. In addition to the numerous beaches, bays and snorkelling spots around Cap d’Antibes, the highlights include the famous Eden-Roc restaurant with impressive sea views and the Bay of Millionaires.
Antibes itself celebrates some of France’s greatest achievements and idiosyncrasies with an array of museums dedicated to subjects such as Absinthe, La Tour, Picasso (who spent his adult life in France) and Raymond Peynet, a local cartoonist and satirical illustrator. Stop by at one of the gelaterias or cafes for artisan-quality coffee, chocolates and desserts in the afternoon sunshine, then stay for the social scene after dark.
Cannes
If there is only one city you intend to see during your South of France yacht charter, then make it Cannes. The Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes hosts the prestigious Cannes Film Festival right beside the marina, and a wander through Le Suquet Cannes will reveal museums, castles and churches around the ambient cobblestone streets. Beach bars and bistros surround the waterfront beneath La Croix des Gardes, yet the most upscale restaurants and clubs are to be found around Port Pierre Canto.
The greatest high-street brands and exclusive labels are to be found along Boulevard de la Croisette and Galeries Lafayette. Whether you’re just starting your luxury yacht charter or have bid goodbye to the crew after a spectacular charter, Cannes is the place to pick up a gift or memento of your summer.
Nice
Metropolitan Nice was the holidaying retreat of European high society in the 19th Century, and it has only gained more charm over the centuries. Art aficionados come to see the life-spanning collection of Matisse’s artwork, Chagall’s religious masterpieces in his own museum, and the works of Monet and more at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nice. If you prefer to be the masterpiece, there is a choice selection of boutiques and renowned brands to update your style in time for the summer season. Nice has several exceptional restaurants, including some Michelin star awarded wonders: Satisfy your inner gourmand at two-star Flavour and give your significant other a night to remember.
One bay to the east, Villefranche Sur Mer offers a more relaxed pace and a selection of beaches around the bay for an afternoon dip in the clear blue waters. The sheltered bay is ideal for beginner snorkelers and Scuba divers, who can then warm up on the shores or back on board. Unique attractions hide within the town and around the cape, including the 16th Century Mairie de Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Rue Obscure and the magnificent Villa and Gardens of Ephrussi de Rothschild overlooking Baie de l’Espalmador.
Eze
One of the best kept secrets along the Cote d’Azur, Eze is much like Ravello along the Amalfi Coast in Italy: A must-see yacht charter destination which is perched 427m/1,401ft high above the sea. Visitors can moor in the port below and take the oft times steep Nietzsche path up to the top. Sturdy boots and plenty of drinking water are recommended. Alternatively, luxury yacht charter groups can sit back and relax in their own private transport as they are driven up the long and winding roads.
Once you reach your goal you will be rewarded through the ancient beauty of the labyrinthine streets. Boutiques and shops now inhabit many of the ground floors, and amongst the eateries, there are two Michelin-starred restaurants: La Chèvre d’Or and Chateau Eza. Be sure to visit Notre Dame de l’Assomption, Le Jardin Exotique and the ramparts for the arresting views before you make your way back below.
Monaco
Monaco has more than French chic; it has a style all of its own. The little principality is renowned for its wealth and luxury lifestyle, and the summer months are the best time to join in the events. Peruse the art galleries and boutiques for elite brands, then rest over coffee in the stunning Cafe de Paris attached to the thrilling Monaco Casino. The multitude of museums are great family-friendly attractions for a rainy afternoon or as a change to all the swimming and snorkelling your group has done.
The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the summer yacht charter season, and vessels that book far ahead enough can get a berth right beside the track. Dine alfresco while you’re entertained by the race, then settle into the outdoor seating for drinks and conversation with the elegant Monaco waterfront as your backdrop.
Menton
Many yacht charterers who go to Monaco also visit Menton, a small town on the border between France and Italy. Its greatest charm is the amazing botanical gardens hidden on the hills overlooking the bay, but there is also the beautiful 17th Century Basilica of Saint Michael Archangel, impressive eateries and galleries that let guests blend culture and the great outdoors with memorable gastronomic treats for a satisfying day out.