WILD THYME, a luxurious Benetti Classic Charter Yacht and the Benetti Innovation Project!

Benetti have initiated a new design competition known as the Innovation Project. The prestigious yachting brand has partnered with 16 design firms, a mix of newcomers and established artisans, to present 27 different mega yacht designs, with a view to some being put into production. Benetti left styling and interior arrangements up to each creative team to fashion as they wished, as long as the designs were based on the builder’s existing platforms, which ranges from 164 to 295 feet (50 meters to 90 meters). Marco Casali has just released three designs, which take inspiration from previous Benetti designs, bringing them into the 21st Century. Casali, “Our study was inspired by the impending anniversary of 140 years since the founding of the shipyard.” One of our favourites is the Cloud 90, a beautiful motorboat, which features both a helipad and a swimming pool.

The Cloud 90 is 295 feet in length (90 meters) and with a 55-foot beam (16.82-meter). Marco Casali described the Cloud 90 as a mega yacht of the future, but pays respect to traditional styling and aesthetics, which have made Benetti’s immediately recognizable. The “Cloud” part of Cloud 90 comes from the rounded, eyebrow-like glass section in the superstructure. Casali and his team mimicked the shape of clouds as well as that of the famed Yas Viceroy Hotel in Abu Dhabi. Highlights of the layout include an owner’s deck with an alfresco lounge, as well as a balcony overlooking the foredeck sunning area and swimming pool. There are floor-to-ceiling windows along the main deck, three tender garages along the hull. There is a heavy emphasis on outdoor living and relaxing. The Cloud 90 will provide accommodation for up to 16 guests, with 28 crew, making a good crew-to-guest ratio.

Cloud 90 is a very exciting prospect and epitomises the importance of schemes such as Benetti’s Innovation project for the future of yachting designs. If you are looking to charter a mega yacht, we have a great selection available from a variety of prestigious ports in the world. We have a great Benetti Classic WILD THYME, which is available for charter anywhere along the French Riviera and Corsica, and would be the perfect yacht charter for MIPIM 2013. She is a 120ft super yacht which features a beautiful top deck with Jacuzzi, as well as a very luxurious interior. Alternatively, why not charter RM ELEGANT, a luxurious 237 foot super yacht with 15 cabins, accommodating up to 30 guests. She would be a great choice for large events, such as the Cannes Film Festival, the Monaco Grand Prix or a special birthday celebration.

If you would like to enquire about chartering a super yacht along the French Riviera, Italian Riviera or in the Caribbean, please enquire through the yacht page on our website or send an email to [email protected], where one of our experienced charter brokers will be delighted to assist you. Please watch this space for the latest news on Super Yacht releases, as well as futuristic designs and show information.

Posted on October 12, 2012 by admin — No Comments ↓

Our favourite worldwide Luxury Yacht Charters – Part II

Following on from Part I of our first ever edition of the Boatbookings.com brokers favourite yachts of the month, Part II aims to complete our October favourite luxury yachts. It is unquestionable that a luxury yacht charter on DAMRAK II or an event charter on NINAH would be beatable, however we believe that JACKIE ONE, TIGER LILY OF LONDON and MISTRAL 55 could also offer you one of the most incredible experiences and holidays of your life.

JACKIE ONE is a luxurious Amercraft 26m motor yacht with 4 staterooms, accommodating up to 8 guests. She has undergone a complete makeover in 2007, which included a Jacuzzi, as well a complete interior refit. She has a great crew, including a very experienced captain who has extensive knowledge of the Amalfi Coast, as well as a chef whose cuisine is second to none. We would highly recommend her for both families and friends for a weeks duration, where guests can soak up the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast, as well as the beautiful weather. There is no better place to be than in the Jacuzzi on her Flybridge with a glass of champagne and watching the sunset over Positano.

TIGER LILY OF LONDON is another one of our favourite luxury yachts available in Spain, Ibiza and Majorca. She is a stunning Pershing 90 motor yacht, with 3 cabins and accommodation for 7 guests. She is the perfect luxury day charter yacht or for multiple days around the beautiful islands of Majorca and Ibiza. She has great outdoor space, with plenty of space for guests to sunbathe and soak up the golden rays of the Mediterranean Sun. She is an impressive motor yacht, with speeds of up to 44 knots whilst maintaining great comfort. She has enough water toys for the whole family, including Seadoo’s, scuba gear, snorkelling equipment as well as a fast tender to enjoy the doughnuts, water skis and wakeboards. We would highly recommend a charter on her in June, July or August 2013. Book now to avoid disappoint!

MISTRAL 55 is the final yacht to feature in the October edition of our favourite charter yachts. She is a luxurious Pershing 115, who was recently on show at the Cannes Boat Show 2012. She is a very fast yacht, which can reach speeds of up to 50 knots, thanks to a gas turbine, making it possible to go from Monaco to St Tropez in an hour! She can provide accommodation for up to 10 guests in 4 modern cabins, as well as beautiful decks and living areas. She is a great choice for a day charter to the exclusive Pampelonne Beach and would not look out of place amongst the Super Yachts. Why not try a lunch reservation at Kailargo or La Ramatuelle, fantastic restaurants on offer at the celebrity hotspot, Nioulargo Beach. She is a very popular day charter option for friends or family and will not disappoint.

If you would like to charter any of the yachts on show, please enquire through our website, where your request will be dealt with by one of our experienced brokers. We would be delighted to assist you in organising one of our favourite yachts for you and providing you with an unforgettable experience.

Posted on October 5, 2012 by admin — No Comments ↓

Luxury Yacht manufacturer Princess introduces its new range for 2013!

Prestigious yacht manufacturer Princess is set for an exciting year in 2013 with the launch of a new V48, a 52 Flybridge, 82 and 88 motor yachts to their range. The new V48 is the biggest new development, with the introduction of Volvo’s IPS system, which is set to dramatically increase fuel efficiency, speed and onboard comfort. The IPS system is truly remarkable and boasts impressive performance, which include the following:

• 30% reduced fuel consumption
• 30% less CO2 emissions
• 50% lower perceived noise level
• 40% longer cruising range
• 20% higher top-speed

The model will feature triple sliding cockpit doors and a large electronically retractable panoramic sunroof, leaving guests open to elements and maximising light onboard. She will feature 2 double cabins, both with en suite, as well as a spacious galley and saloon area.

Princess’s new 52 Flybridge model is an excellent replacement for the outgoing 50, having been inspired by the Princess 56, which was recently seen at the Southampton Boat Show. She features the brands trademark pane of glass, which floods light into the master cabin and the yacht below. The new 52 is set to be much more spacious than her predecessor, as well as offering great performance thanks to resin infusion technology, which reduces weight, increasing speed and fuel efficiency. Resin Infusion Technology is a specialized laminating technique, which greatly improves the quality and strength of fibre glass parts, in comparison to normal hand lay up parts. This creates the optimization of a part in terms of strength and durability. She would be a great choice for a luxury day charter yacht, featuring a large U-shape seating forward faced by a two-person sofa, making her a very sociable vessel.

The new Princess 82 motor yacht epitomises sleek lines, spacious interiors and impeccably appointed exteriors. She has extended window lines, which give a sporty and sophisticated feel to the yacht, whilst providing natural light throughout the yacht. Her interior is light, sophisticated and beautifully detailed with an intelligent use of space throughout. The main deck saloon incorporates comfortable furnishings and a formal dining area, which is separated from the wheelhouse and highly, specified galley to ensure guest privacy, particularly important for owners with crew or chartering intentions. She is a great choice for family charters with her 4 beautifully appointed en-suite cabins. The master cabin is modern, yet elegant, with a great mixture of dark wood and soft furnishings.

The Princess designers of the 88 have once again excelled in creating exterior and interior spaces that are generous in size, exceptionally well finished and incredibly flexible whether entertaining or relaxing. For the first time on a Princess of this size, a powered balcony can be specified which folds neatly from the starboard side deck, connecting the saloon with the anchorage through sliding glass doors and the lower deck accommodation is also wonderfully versatile providing owners with the choice of four or five en-suite cabins to suit their needs. The Princess 88 promises to be yet another class leading model from the brand when she launches in 2013.

We have a great range of Princess yachts available from ports all around the Mediterranean. If you would like to charter a Princess yacht from the French / Italian Riviera, Greece, Spain or the Balearics, please enquire via our website or send an email to [email protected]. Watch this space for more press releases and news on industry shows.

Posted on October 4, 2012 by admin — No Comments ↓

Highlights of the Monaco Yacht Show 2012

The Monaco Yacht Show 2012 showcased 100 of the world’s finest super and mega yachts. The show hosted the glitterati of the yachting world, as well as over 28,000 visitors, who enjoyed some magnificent offerings from San Lorenzo, Benetti and Couach, ranging from 25 to 100m in length. This year, the show definitely did not disappoint with some incredible yachts on show, such as Vladamir Putin’s NIRVANA. This 88.5m Oceanco luxury mega yacht features six decks, swimming pool, helipad, accommodating up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms. What we noticed was a key trend at this years show was the inclusion of the balcony on the newest super yachts. This feature, whether it was off a living area or stateroom, created a great open-plan layout, maximising space and light.

A major trend that was present yet again this year was the emphasis on wellness, with the addition of spas, saunas and workout areas. Luxury yachts are increasingly focused on the needs of their charterers, not solely by pampering but by also offering a holistic approach to the client’s health and relaxation. There is no better place to enjoy a fantastic massage than on the top deck of a super yacht on a luxury charter around the BVI or French Riviera.

Revolver 42 and Boatbookings.com broker Mimi Andain with Andrea.

One of our favourite luxury charter yachts on show was ILLUSION, a beautiful 46m Benetti super yacht. She has 5 beautiful staterooms, accommodating up to 10 guests, making her a great choice for friends and family. One particular feature that we particularly liked was her attention to detail, with regards to her interior design and furnishings. She was immaculate, with the finest touches throughout. After we had taken a tour inside, we were amazed by her beautiful decks, which incorporated a plunge pool with the most amazing mosaic work. We would highly recommend a weekly crewed yacht charter onboard ILLUSION during the summer months along the French and Italian Riviera or over Christmas in the Caribbean.

As well as showcasing the world’s most luxurious super yachts, the Monaco Yacht Show 2012 presented some of the most modern and revolutionary boats that are available. We really liked the REVOLVER 42, a 42 ft Italian designed day charter yacht. She epitomizes speed, power and aero-dynamics. Yet, she possesses all the comforts to enjoy a leisurely day charter in Sardinia. She has a great sunbathing area to the rear and has a panoramic sunroof, optimizing light and space. She is definitely one to watch, boasting speeds of up to 70 knots, producing 1300H horsepower!

Having seen some SeaBobs on show at the Monaco Yacht Show 2012, it’s obvious that these fantastic water toys will continue to be popular for the foreseeable future. This is mostly down to the fact that they’re so safe and people of all ages, even young kids, are able to use them. SeaBobs can only be described as a hybrid of a body board, and a jet ski. The only difference being on SeaBobs you can travel underwater, and at quite some speed, some travelling up to 20km/h. Lots of people find them exciting, as it’s a new and innovative way to see sea life, weaving in and out of corals on the sea bed. With a battery life of up to an hour on some models, these water toys make for a great adventurous part of your charter. If you’re interested in chartering a luxury yacht that has these fantastic toys and much more, look no further than ILLUSION.

Watch this space for more industry show reviews and insight into new press releases and futuristic designs. If you would like any more information about any of the yachts included, please do enquire via our website or send an email of enquiry to [email protected]. We would be delighted to assist you with booking the experience of a lifetime on one of our luxury yachts!

Posted on October 1, 2012 by admin — No Comments ↓

Boatbookings.com Luxury Yacht Charter onboard REHAB, Sunseeker Predator 68

Luxury Yacht Charter VIBE, a Sunseeker Predator 68.

September is a great month in the South of France. It is much quieter than July and August, as well as offering the same great weather as the high season summer months, making it the perfect time to charter a luxury yacht. Here at Boatbloggings.com, we recently experienced our very own day charter onboard REHAB.

She is a stunning Sunseeker Predator 68 with 2 crew, Michael and Emma. This combination has proved a real success, having had 37 days of charter this summer. Michael is an experienced Irish captain, who is very professional and insightful on the local area. Emma is the chief stewardess and fantastic at her job, making guests feel comfortable onboard as well as being very attentive to the needs of the charterers.

We started the day from Port Vauban, Antibes and were greeted with a lovely selection of breakfast pastries from a local patisserie. Once everyone had embarked, Emma delivered a safety demonstration, highlighting that safety onboard is paramount. I was very impressed by the teamwork between Captain and Stewardess, shown by the implementation of a new itinerary by 9 am, due to bad weather in Saint-Tropez.

The natural beauty of the French Riviera

We departed Antibes and went for a swim between the Lerins Islands, where the water can only be comparable to that of the Caribbean. It was truly breathtaking, as there were very few yachts in the water and it felt as if we had the place to ourselves. Once everyone had been in the water, we headed towards Cannes and the view of the Croisette from the water is spectacular. Michael then turned the yacht around and we started to head towards Beaulieu sur Mer and St Jean Cap Ferrat, where we would be dining at Paloma Beach. REHAB was the perfect companion for our day charter. She was sleek, spacious, elegant and most importantly comfortable. Once we had passed the airport, the views of the Riviera were picture postcard material.

We arrived in St Jean Cap Ferrat for our lunch reservation at Paloma Beach, a restaurant specialising in local seafood and Provencal cuisine. Guests enjoyed appetisers; a Seafood Trio of prawn, crab and salmon, along with a delicious Fritto Misto. Main courses of Steak Tartare, Sole Meunière and Grilled Sea Bream were enjoyed by all, along with a very nice House Rosé. The seaside setting of Paloma Beach, with view s along the Cap and the Riviera were the secret ingredients for what was a great lunch.

We all boarded REHAB and began our return to Antibes. She, in my opinion, is the perfect day charter yacht, due to her spacious bow and aft lounging areas. There were at least 6 of us who laid comfortably on her bow, soaking up the last rays of the day. Captain Michael took us to some of the most beautiful and secluded bays of Villefranche on our return and it was his knowledge, as well as Emma’s service, which provided us with a unique experience on the water. We returned to Antibes to see the sun set over Fort Carre, which was a fitting conclusion to what only can be described as the perfect day.

If you would like additional information on how to charter this yacht or any others on our website, please do enquire via the yachts page or send us an email at [email protected]. We would be delighted to assist you with organising the experience of a lifetime.

Posted on September 24, 2012 by admin — No Comments ↓