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.
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.
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 125 mph top speed. It goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
Also waiting in line for his own hybrid is Al “An Inconvenient Truth” Gore.
Just imagine the buzz if Leo were to invest in a hybrid mega yacht charter vessel?!
Contact 1-800 Yacht Charters at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/to learn more about the newest generation of green superyachts and to charter your own eco-friendly yacht for vacation.
This entry was posted in News Good Times and tagged Blake Lively, Toyota Prius, eco-friendly, hybrid superyacht, The Karma, James Bond, socially-responsible, Fisker Karma, Celebrities Who Enjoy Yacht Charter, Hybrid, Make A Difference, Steven Spielberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, Aston Martin, Cannes Film Festival, Seven Seas, Henrik Fisker
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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…”
To illustrate, there are four compelling reasons behind the seaplane advantage. Specifically, acquisition cost, maintenance cost, payload, and range outweigh helicopters.
These aircraft are relatively new to general aviation. In 2004, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) created a new category for sport aircraft.
This entry was posted in Educational News and tagged Air, seaplane, helicopter, Icon A5, faa sport plane regularions, Moonlight II, mercedes benz, yacht helicopters, airplane with folding wings
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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.
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.
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!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Yacht of the Week and tagged yacht charter tahiti, electric moped, superyacht Exuma, French Polynesia yacht charter, amphibious jeep, hov pod, hovpod, unique watertoys on yacht, snorkel with sea turtles, Exuma, Motoryacht of the Year, Tahiti yacht charter, Hovercraft, award-winning, underwater SeaBob
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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.
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.
For active guests, Eagles Nest carries an assortment of aquasports equipment – from snorkeling gear to fishing poles and scuba gear (for certified divers only).
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Yacht of the Week and tagged caribbean yacht charter, Eagle's Nest, yotw, 10 guests, SCUBA diving, yacht charter Bahamas, motoryacht charter, Bahamas yacht charter
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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.“
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.
These yachts 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.
Here is a partial listing of the newest yachts built by Feadship Royal Dutch Shipyard and available for super yacht charters throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean:
81 meter 2011 motor yacht AIR:
63 meter 2011 motor yacht LADY BRITT:
53 meter 2009 motor yacht HURRICANE RUN:
For a complete listing of available yachts for hire, just ask. To book your own private luxury yacht charter aboard a magnificent name brand superyacht, contact our destination specialists at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Frequently Asked Questions Educational and tagged Air, motoryacht charter, Feadship, Secret, Feadship yacht charter, Feadship Royal Dutch Shipyard
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While questions may remain as to whether or not airport scanners pose a health risk to travelers, there’s good news for airline passengers uncomfortable with screeners viewing their naked image.
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 Systems Inc’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…
Want to save time at the airport? Read our quicktips for hassle-free airport screening HERE.
This entry was posted in News and tagged TSA, airport body scanners, nude, nude scanning, backscatter scanners, Transportation Security Administration, L-3 Communications, OSI Systems Inc's Rapiscan Systems, TSA Administrator John Pistole, Jana Sheeder, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters
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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.
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.
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.
For students who prefer hands-on training, there are many accredited boating safety training centers and schools around the world, such as:
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!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Educational Gadgets and tagged yacht charter vacation, Personal Watercraft (PWC), yacht charter safety, yacht charter, what are the rules for using watertoys on a yacht, know the rules on a yacht, legality on yacht charter, banana, noncompliance, rules, watersports safety, waverunners, jetskis, towable toys
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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-based Princess Yachts has become synonymous with that which is the finest in design of luxury yacht charter vessels.
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.
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.
Come spend a week on a Princess. The 2011 motor yacht FLOREVA 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.
This entry was posted in Destinations Yacht of the Week and tagged flybridge model, Floreva 2, motoryacht charter, Mediterranean yacht charter, Balearics, Princess Yachts
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Every few weeks we like to glimpse into the future of sustainable yacht design. We’ve profiled designers who tout a future of green superyachts and builders who hope to lead the way with zero-carbon emission mega yacht charter vessels.
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.
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.
Twelve passengers can move about comfortably on the deck, designed to feel like a lounge. A tinted glass panel above will shield passengers from the wind and sun.
Alas, don’t expect to see this vessel pop up anytime soon in the Mediterranean 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.
This entry was posted in Educational News Yacht of the Week and tagged James Bond, Behringer, Gadgets, Stefanie Behringer, Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter, Hybrid, fast superyacht, 1800yachtcharters, 007, Audi, eco-friendly
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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.
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.
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…
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.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter and tagged credit cards, how much to tip on a yacht charter, which credit card to use, why use a credit card, how much cash should i carry on the yacht, Croatia yacht charter, which credit card is best, travelers checks
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