Ah, life is good for film star Leonardo DiCaprio. He is dating “Gossip Girl” actress Blake Lively. First, we see Leo relaxing onboard motoryacht SEVEN SEAS, Steven Spielberg‘s multi-million dollar superyacht, during the recent Cannes Film Festival 2011.
Now we hear di Caprio news. He is about to take delivery of a 2012 Fisker Karma hybrid luxury sports sedan. And not just any Fisker Karma – the very first one ever built.
LEONARDO DiCAPRIO HYBRID CAR
The actor leads the green enviro movement in Hollywood. His latest toy, like his Toyota Prius, is built with sustainability in mind. The Karma is designed by Henrik Fisker, formerly of Aston Martin, and has been developed around an aluminium chassis.
ABOUT THE KARMA
A pair of electric motors totaling 403hp powers The plug-in Karma. The first is a 22 kWh lithium ion battery. The second is a 175kW generator via a 2.2L gas engine.
Even with its eco-friendly background, the Karma features a 125mph top speed. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
WHO HAS HYBRID CARS?
Also waiting in line for his own hybrid is Al “An Inconvenient Truth” Gore.
We profiled the new Mercedes Benz-style helicopter, the EC145. Its use as an air tender on mega yacht charter vessels is popular.
Several readers contacted us. They said the future air tender might be a plane, and not a helicopter. We decided to investigate further.
As we stated in June,
“In the rarified air of multimillion dollar superyachts and gigayachts, helipads on luxury mega yacht charter vessels like motor yacht AIR and motor yacht MOONLIGHT II commonplace…”
4 REASONS FOR SEAPLANES
To illustrate, there are four compelling reasons behind the seaplane advantage. Specifically, acquisition cost, maintenance cost, payload, and range outweigh helicopters.
Similarly, it is often more affordable to buy and maintain a seaplane. Compared to a helicopter; we found payload comparisons vary. This is because of the type of airship. Seaplanes far exceed the range of typical helicopters.
SPECIAL LIGHT SPORT AIRCRAFT
The new generation of planes, specifically, Special Light Sport Aircraft, are the new item.
In general, sports aircraft are cheaper to build than most helicopters. With fewer training hours required, it is also easier and less expensive for people to get a sport pilot license as compared to a traditional pilot’s license.
ICON A5 PLANE
As a tender to a luxury yacht charter vessel, the most interesting new sports plane is the Icon A5, slated for full production later this year. The A5 is a 2-seat composite amphibian. Weighing just 1000 pounds, the plane features folding wings, allowing the aircraft to be stored onboard a yacht in a space no larger than 28 by 9 feet.
With a price of just $135,000, the Icon A5 could prove to be the low cost air tender of the future.
We first profiled motor yacht EXUMA, and we were skeptical of a builder known for launching luxury sailing charter vessels. Other yachts built by this manufacturer are MELEK and PANTHALASSA.
MOTORYACHT EXUMA
All doubts were erased about designer once the project was completed. Firstly, motor yacht EXUMA is award-winning. She earned the Motoryacht of the Year at the World Superyacht Awards 2011. Secondly, the 50 meter poweryacht was also named Best Displacement Motoryacht under 500 gross tons. Her builder? The Perini Navi Group, typically known for sailing yachts.
The yacht accommodates 8 to 9 guests, and she is currently in Tahiti. She is available for charter until early August. After some use by her owner, she will again be available from mid September to late October in Fiji.
WHAT MAKES YACHT EXUMA SPECIAL?
Exuma has a very low draft. She can access anchorages too shallow for most large yachts. Moreover, her shallow draft enables her to explore the reefs of French Polynesia.
Unique onboard toys include a Hovercraft, underwater Seabob scooter, an electric moped, and Amphibious jeep. Unique, indeed!
They say, It’s Better in the Bahamas, and MCP motor yacht Eagle’s Nest hopes to prove thatsaying true.
CHARTERYACHT EAGLE’S NEST
Effectively immediately, the 98′ Bahama yacht charters vessel has a reduced weekly high season rate, from $45,000/wk to $38,000/wk – a savings of over 15%. Rates are plus running expenses (food, bar, fuel, etc.).
WHY GO TO THE BAHAMAS?
Sure, a Mediterranean yacht charter vacation is fun, but what if you’re looking to stay closer to home this summer? The Bahamasare less than 50 miles away from Florida. In the time it takes to commute to work, you and your family can be in the sun-drenched islands, far from the overcrowded anchorages of the Mediterranean.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Built in 2007, motor yacht Eagle’s Nest can accommodate 6 to 10 guests in 4 cabins, making her ideal for a family vacation.
Her master stateroom, located on the main deck, features a walkaround queen bed, satellite TV, and ensuite bath. Below deck, two guest staterooms offer walkaround queen beds, while a third cabin features twin beds plus two built-in bunks – a perfect room for 4 children.
STATEROOM FEATURES
Each stateroom has many features. For example, a Crestron audio entertainment system with surround sound, reading lights next to the beds, complete blackout blinds, hairdryers, and port holes allowing plenty of natural light.
EXTERIOR
Of course, motor yacht charters in the Bahamas are all about the sun and the sea, and yacht Eagle’s Nest is the perfect platform to explore the islands. Her semi-shaded aft deck is ideal for al fresco dining with seating for 8-10 guests, as well as access to the cockpit, forward, and large swim platform, aft. Moving up a level, the bridge deck is also semi-shaded and features a large Jacuzzi tub with sun pads, plus a barbeque BBQ and ice maker.
TOP DECK
Need even more space to worship the sun? A third top deck, the sun deck, offers semi-shade, an al fresco dining table, cushioned seating areas, and a wet bar.
WATERSPORTS TOYS
For active guests, Eagles Nest carries an assortment of aquasports equipment – from snorkeling gear to fishing poles and scuba gear (for certified divers only).
HOW TO BOOK A BAHAMAS YACHT CHARTER
Take advantage of this great deal HERE …and learn more about other special rates on summer yachting vacations, contact our destination specialists today!
A friend, unfamiliar with yachting asked me, “What makes a Feadship so special?” I simply said,
“Feadship is the Rolls Royce of the yachting world.“
PEDIGREED
Aficionados of premium brand jewelry, cigars, furniture, and automobiles understand. Enthusiasts draw to the brand’s pedigree and reputation of excellence. It dates back to 1949.
WHY CHARTER ONE?
Theseyachts are synonymous with quality craftsmanship and the finest building materials. Ironically, the builder embraced state-of-the-art construction technology. It is now renown for modern superyacht designs and naval architecture.
PARTIAL LISTING FOR CHARTER
Here is a partial listing of the newest yachtsbuilt by Feadship Royal Dutch Shipyard and available for super yacht charters throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean:
New software for screening passengers at U.S. airports will do away with naked images, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
After hundreds of complaints from travelers, the TSA began testing software for uses a generic body outline and highlights the area where any anomaly is detected during a full body scan. Now, as you prepare to board your flight, your body image will not appear in this new scanning software.
“We often hear our clients express their concerns about the body scanning process,” says Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. “While we appreciate the importance of airport security, we are hopeful the new software will effectively address the privacy issues of our luxury yacht charter customers.”
Made by L-3 Communications, scanners at the 40 domestic airports that currently use the equipment will be upgraded over the next several months, the TSA said.
“This software upgrade enables us to continue providing a high level of security through advanced imaging technology screening, while improving the passenger experience at checkpoints,” said TSA Administrator John Pistole.
The agency also plans to test similar software later this year for the 247 backscatter scanners that are in 38 airports and made by OSI SystemsInc’s Rapiscan Systems unit.
Later this year, the TSA will unveil a pilot program that will allow some frequent fliers at four hub U.S. airports to go through expedited screening.
Now if we can just get airline food and service to be half as good as the meals and crew service found onboard mega yacht charter vessels…
HOW TO GET THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY QUICKLY
Want to save time at the airport? Read our quicktips for hassle-free airport screening HERE.
Rules are inevitable. They are for your safety. Kayaks, skis, towable wakeboards, and bananas are great toys to have on a mega yacht charter. The most requested aquasport equipment is the personal watercraft (PWC). Jetskis and waverunners are fashionable on yachts for hire, particularly the newest yachts available for charter.
KNOW THE RULES FOR WATERCRAFT
Firstly, charter clients can end up frustrated and disappointed if they are not aware of the rules regarding the use of PWC’s in certain cruising grounds. Waverunners not allowed in certain protected bays and coves, some governments require the operator of the PWC to have a license – and please note: an automobile driver’s license is NOT sufficient.
Secondly, before you sign your rental yacht agreement, look for a very standard clause similar to this:
“Use of personal water craft is only permitted subject to the operator having the appropriate license and meeting with local operating regulations. Any liability arising from noncompliance is entirely at the operator’s risk.”
Bottom line, just because your yacht carries waverunners onboard does not mean you can legally use them.
HOW TO GET A PWC LICENSE TO FOLLOW RULES
Thirdly, get a license! One way to obtain a PWC license is via one of many online boating safety courses. Courses may vary from state to state and from country to country. Fortunately, many PWC licenses are recognized and accepted in major charter destinations like the Western Med.
Once you obtain your PWC license, be sure to discuss with your crew your desire to use the yacht’s personal watercraft. You might be surprised to find your cruising ground does not permit the use of PWC’s – license or not!
This is especially true in areas with sensitive eco systems. British Virgin Islands yacht charters, for example, are not allowed to use PWC’s anywhere in the island chain.
In conclusion, knowing the rules for operating personal watercraft before your charter will help make your vacation safer and memorable for all the right reasons!
When we think of a “Princess,” we often envision a beautiful young lady with charm, grace, and the finest heritage. The same holds true in the world of yachting.
UK-basedPrincess Yachts has become synonymous with that which is the finest in design of luxury yacht charter vessels.
PRINCESS YACHTS
The company has a strict dedication to the highest standards of design and craftsmanship. This British builder has become one of the most respected names in the marine industry. They offer flybridge models from 42 to 90 feet. In addition, they build mega yacht charter vessels from 32 to 40 meters.
WHAT MAKES HER SPECIAL
The 72 model displays every characteristic that defines a Princess: clean flowing lines, elegant styling, and effortless power swelling to a cruising speed of 34 knots.
The Princess 72 Motor Yacht perfectly combines the comfort and elegance of a motor yacht with the performance of a sports cruiser, making her a most desirable yacht for hire.
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER FOR A WEEK
Come spend a week on a Princess. The 2011 motor yachtFLOREVA 2 is available in Rosas, Spain. The yacht accommodates 8 guests and is priced at €36,000 per week, plus expenses. Contact our consultants HERE for reservation details.
German grad student, Stefanie Behringer, is getting notice. Stefanie designed a hybrid propulsion trimaran motorboat. It is powered by diesel and electric jet skis. Behringer’s creation, if it makes it off the drawing board, would be the ultimate James Bond boat. The sleek, futuristic design is a real head-turner! The green-designed vessel is simple and efficient. A jet ski attaches to each side of the hull. While the jet skis are electric-powered, the 49 foot yacht is also powered by two Audi turbo-charged diesel engines. Audi’s concept design team assisted Behringer on the project.
SPEED AND PERFORMANCE
The motoryacht is designed to cruise above 20 knots, with a top end of nearly 30 knots. The vessel can be operated using just the jet skis for a 100-horsepower emission-free cruise. At high speeds, the diesel engines will kick in as well as recharge the jet skis’ batteries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Twelve passengers can move about comfortably on the deck, designed to feel like a lounge. A tinted glass panel above will shieldpassengers from the wind and sun.
LAUNCH DATE FOR BOND BOAT
Alas, don’t expect to see this vessel pop up anytime soon in theMediterranean yacht charter market. Audi has not announced any plans to move the multi-hulled motoryacht beyond the concept phase. Still, innovative designs like this bode well for the future of the yachting industry and talented young designers like Stefanie Behringer.
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER
Why wait for the future? Contact 1-800 Yacht Charters HERE and ask to arrange a charter on a yacht committed to reduced emissions and sustainable operations.
You’ve been planning your Croatia yacht charter for months. The skipper has called to report that the weather is fantastic, and the yacht’s chef has provisioned the sailboat with all of your favorite foods. Your bags are packed, and your flight boarding pass is in your coat.
Now, your focus turns to money – how much cash should you carry, and which credit cards should you take on the trip?
Of course, traveling with too much cash can be dangerous if it is lost or stolen.
Learning to travel wisely with your credit cards can save you time and money. This is especially true when traveling abroad due to currency exchange rates and foreign transaction fees.
FOUR TIPS FOR CREDIT CARDS
First, review fees. When choosing which credit cards to bring on the trip, take a look at the fees for each card. Select the card or cards with the lowest foreign transaction fees. Find out about any conversion fees – many credit card companies charge currency conversion fees when you use your card in a country that doesn’t normally transact in U.S. dollars.
Second, reward yourself. Consider any cards that offer travel rewards; you might as well rack up as many flight miles as possible.
Third, call Your Credit Card Company. Let them know you’ll be enjoying a luxury sailing charter in the Mediterranean. The point is not to gloat, but to let them know that your card usage in a foreign place is legit. Otherwise, your card might be denied when you try to purchase something.
Finally, Choose the “Local Currency” Option. Whether at a shop, taverna, or restaurant, always ask the clerk to process the credit card using the local currency option. If the card gets processed using U.S. Dollars, you may be charged a fee to convert those greenbacks into the local currency. This is in addition to any foreign-currency transaction fees from your credit card company.
TRAVELERS CHECKS
With traveler’s checks a relic of the past and cash too risky to carry, credit cards can be a great convenience when abroad. Remember to look through your cards and find the one with the lowest fees, and the best rewards points. A little planning now can save a lot of headaches (and dollars) later…
HOW MUCH DO WE TIP THE YACHT CHARTER CREW
Note – most mega yacht charter crews do not carry credit card processing equipment onboard, and cannot accept credit cards for the crew’s gratuity. Click to learn more about customary tipping policies HERE.
LUXURY TAX ABOLISHED The recent Mediterranean Yacht Charter show in Genoa, Italy, learned that the 3 year old Sardinia Luxury Tax is no more. ABOUT THE TAX The repeal of the Sardinia Luxury Tax is especially good news to charter enthusiasts. Anyone considering a yachting vacation in the Mediterranean is fortunate. The law […] read more
The world of luxury yacht charter has finally arrived in the Seychelles. Motor yacht SEA STREAM, a 76 foot Ferretti with room for 8 guests, is now available for Caribbean yacht charter enthusiasts looking for a new destination. Ferretti yacht SEA STREAM is now available as the only high quality, luxury crewed motor yacht available […] read more
PLAN AND PACK Yikes! What to pack? In just over three weeks, you leave on a week-long Bahama yacht charter vacation. You choose a sleek, performance, basic sailing yacht with crew. Your menu provided to your yacht through your charter broker, and your crew is ready to welcome you aboard. Seriously, what do you pack? […] read more
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