Anyone who has booked a Benetti yacht charter or a Feadship yacht charter vacation knows that charter agents heavily promote trip cancellation insurance. For mega yacht charter agents, trip cancellation insurance is a substantial profit point. Commissions of 20% of the insurance cost for selling this product for a Feadship yacht charter or a Benetti yacht charter are common.
SUMMER WEATHER IS SOMETIMES AN ISSUE
Charter brokers often offer this coverage to their Caribbean yacht charter customers who fear trip delays due to summer tropical weather disturbances. Mediterranean yacht charter customers also hear the pitch to purchase this coverage, as concerns for lost baggage are common with long, international flights.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT
Putting aside the fact that someone “profits” from the sale of these policies, a luxury yacht charter customer should give serious consideration to this coverage option. Whether you rent a private yacht, a megayacht, or a superyacht, for a Caribbean yacht charter or elsewhere, or whether you plan crewed catamaran charters or sail boat charters – the facts remain the same: you are spending a lot of money and you may wish to protect your investment!
CIRCUMSTANCES OF CANCELATION
There are hundreds of circumstances that could cause you to cancel your trip, return home early, or force you to seek emergency medical treatment while traveling. What if you booked a MIPIM yacht or a Monaco Grand Prix yacht for the yearly event in Cannes and Monte Carlo, and suddenly you could not attend?
TEN REASONS TO PURCHASE TRAVEL INSURANCE
To demonstrate the importance of purchasing travel insurance, and emergency travel services, here are 10 common examples of what could go wrong.
CANCELED FLIGHTS — It’s 10 p.m. and you and your immediate family arrive at the airport for a connecting flight, only to find that your flight has been cancelled. Who can assist you with finding new flights to get everyone home?
INSULIN IN LOST LUGGAGE — Your bag is lost with your insulin inside. You need help to locate your bag as soon as possible and have your emergency prescription filled. Who do you call?
PASSPORT AND WALLET STOLEN — It’s your first visit to Europe, and your passport and wallet are stolen before you board your Monaco Grand Prix yacht. Where do you turn for emergency cash, and how will you get your passport replaced?
THE LIST CONTINUES
MEDICAL EVACUATION NEEDED — You’re involved in an accident during your Benetti yacht charter, and adequate medical treatment is not available. Who will help arrange and pay for a medical evacuation?
ILL CHARTER PARTY MEMBERS — Your sister-in-law becomes seriously ill and you must cancel your MIPIM yacht trip. What happens to your non-refundable deposits or pre-payments?
6. LOST LUGGAGE — You arrive for your Feadship yacht charter in Jamaica, and your luggage doesn’t. If it’s lost, who will help you find it? Or if delayed, who will pay for your necessities? What if it’s stolen, who will pay to replace it?
THE LAST OF 10 REASONS
7. BANKRUPTCY OF TOUR OPERATOR — Your luxury sailing charter tour operator goes bankrupt. Who will pay for your non-refundable expenses? Who will help get you to your destination?
8. MEDICAL HELP NEEDED — You’re walking down a street in Rio and twist your ankle. Who can help you find an English-speaking physician?
9. TERRORISM — It is three weeks until your scheduled arrival for your Croatia yacht charter. A terrorist incident occurs in the city that you are planning to visit. Who will pay if you want to cancel your trip?
10. HURRICANE — You are at a beach resort in the Florida Keys during your luxury sailing charter vacation, and you are forced to evacuate due to an approaching hurricane. Who will help you evacuate and who will reimburse your lost vacation investment?
WILL YOU BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE?
There are so many circumstances where your vacation may be interrupted. It’s important to understand your options to safeguard your holiday investment. Remember travel insurance is optional and should be analyzed before each vacation begins.
After this weekend’s 2011 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Feadship motor yacht JANA will hoist her anchor and reposition for the winter season in the Maldives.
AVAILABLE FOR CHRISTMAS CHARTER
Expected to arrive in mid December, the classic 46-meter Feadship yacht charter vessel is currently available for a Christmas reservation.
YACHT CHARTER – DESTINATION MALDIVES
Motoryacht JANA will remain in the Maldives through mid April and joins a growing list of yachts for hire in this Indian Ocean paradise.
OTHER YACHTS FOR CHARTER IN MALDIVES
There are other megayachts committed to the winter season in the Maldives. For instance,l the 64 meter Benetti motoryacht SILVER ANGEL and sail yacht PERLA DEL MARE. Additionally, the 60 meter motor yacht ARKLEY and the 150 foot motoryacht MOECCA.
JANA AT FORMULA 1 RACE
Serving as a privately-chartered spectator yacht at this year’s Formula 1 race in Abu Dhabi, Feadship yacht JANA will complete one more charter in Abu Dhabi in November before embarking for the Indian Ocean.
JANA SHEEDER COMMENTS
The prospect of offering alternative destinations for winter charters is exciting for JANA Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. “Our team is committed to expanding the destination options available to our clients,” says Sheeder. “A winter holiday in the warm waters of the Maldives is an excellent alternative to the traditional Caribbean yacht charter vacation.”
THE MALDIVES
The Maldives offer visitors the chance to enjoy crystal clear water and sugar white, sandy beaches. The Republic of Maldives is located in the Indian Ocean. It is an island nation. In specific, formed by a double-wrapped chain of twenty-six (26) atolls. The winter water temperature is amazingly warm. Specifically, about 31 degrees celsius (87 degrees fahrenheit). Opportunities for snorkeling and watersports are endless. There are hundreds of reefs. In addition, many in the shallow waters of enclosed lagoons.
“We hope to add even more megayachts to the growing list available this winter in the Maldives.”
Readers ask for more information on superyacht Air – the largest Feadship offered for rent – so we deliver! In the past, we profiled the launch of motor yacht AIR, which prompted discussion.
Superyacht AIR surpassed all expectations during her sea trials and her owner is scheduled to take delivery in just under two weeks. Shortly after, she will depart Holland and head straight to Monte Carlo to undertake her July Mediterranean yacht charter booking commitments.
WHERE IS SHE LOCATED?
Joining a fleet of the largest yachts for hire, the gigayacht still has open charter dates in the months of August and September. At the conclusion of the summer season, the yacht will re-position across the Atlantic and join the St. Martin yacht charter fleet.
WHAT MAKES AIR SPECIAL
Feadship yacht AIR is helmed by co-captains Stephen Warren and Mark Finch and boasts a young and enthusiastic crew, including an excellent young British chef, new to the industry. They are all looking forward to a spectacular season.
The yacht features a sleek, elegant exterior with a unique matte black steel hull. The minimalist interior, created by Remi Tessier, is stunning. Amenities include an 8 meter-long pool located on the main deck forward, and a sun deck with full gym and Jacuzzi. Other features include an elevator to all decks, massage and steam rooms, and a fully-certified commercial helicopter pad (helipad).
Feadship yacht charter enthusiasts can breath a collective sigh of relief as the newly launched motor yacht TANGO escaped disaster in the Netherlands last week.
YACHT TANGO
Launched on the 8th of May, 2011, the 77 meter Feadship yacht TANGO was enroutefrom the yard on Kaag Island to Rotterdam for her sea trials, when the two tugs that were assisting her had to stop and wait for the bridge in Waddinxveen to open.
THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE
Moments before the superyacht was to pass underneath the bridge, part of the bridge collapsed, and debris rained down into the water from 30 meters above.
The vertical bridge was built in 1935 and stands 34 meters in height when drawn fully open. At the tine of the incident, the bridge was operating on emergency power after a power outage hit the city of Waddinxveen.
Local authorities say it is unclear why the bridge fell down.
CAUSE OF BRIDGE COLLAPSE
Hmmmm….maybe the fact that the bridge is SEVENTY-SIX years old might have something to do with it!!!
Let’s hope the channel can be cleared and Feadship motor yacht TANGO can continue her journey. For now, the hopefully future Caribbean yacht charter vessel is stuck on the wrong side of the bridge…
BOOK A YACHT CHARTER
Enjoy a vacation onboard what one charterer called the “Rolls Royce” of yachts – a Feadship. The newest model open for charter is motor yacht AIR, available this summer in the Mediterranean.
Since her coming-out party at the Cannes Film Festival 2011, motor yacht SnowbirD has continued to turn heads along the Côte d’Azur. Now, the spectacular 39 meter luxury ocean-going superyacht is heading across the pond to the warm waters of the Caribbean. Offering fabulous accommodation for up to 10 guests, motor yacht SnowbirD will be the ideal St Barts yacht charter vessel for the winter and spring.
Built in Holland, Hakvoort motor yacht SnowbirD features an interior both traditional and modern in style. The full-beam owner’s suite includes a study, plus a stateroom with a king-size bed and a large walk-in closet. There are four guest cabins on the lower deck, two double VIP staterooms, and two twin-bed guest rooms. All feature ensuite bathrooms.
The entertainment areas onboard the yacht are equally impressive, and boasts an open plan main lounge/dining area arrangement. The bridge deck sky lounge opens onto a charming aft area with built-in seating and a teak dining table.
The sun deck features plenty of open area for sunbathing as well as two large sofas and teak tables. A large Jacuzzi whirlpool tub accommodates up to six people, with an adjacent granite-topped wet bar.
Horse racing. For centuries it has been known as, “The Sport of Kings.” An obsession which borders on an addiction. To illustrate, she is a mixture of both royalty and aristocracy.
YACHT OWNERSHIP
Modern day royal families and billionaire capitalists keep alive this grand tradition. They own and race horses. In addition, some horse owners also own luxury yachts. Specifically, a few have chosen to name their yachts in honor of their prized steeds.
HORSES AND LUXURY YACHTS
Below are 3 extraordinary equine athletes and their namesake yachts.
First, THUNDER GULCH Thoroughbred Thunder Gulch left the starting gate at 25-1 odds in 1995. He went on to win the Kentucky Derby. Born in 1992, the champion American racehorse was ridden by Hall of Fame jockey, Gary Stevens. He was trained by legendary horseman, D. Wayne Lukas. Thunder Gulch then won the 1995 Belmont Stakes, the Florida Derby, and more.
On the other hand, motor yacht Thunder Gulch was “born” in 1999. The 164′ Mediterranean yacht charter vessel accommodates 10 guests in 5 staterooms. Recently sold and renamed TJ ESPERANZA, ex-Thunder Gulch is available for charter at $250,000 plus running expenses per week.
NEXT TWO
Second, HURRICANE RUN
Irish horse Hurricane Run launched an illustrious career with wins at the 2005 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe Lucien Barriere, and the Irish Derby. He was named the European Horse Of The Year at the 2005 Cartier Racing Awards.
In the same way, motor yacht Hurricane Run was launched in late January 2009. She was born at Feadship Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw yard in the Netherlands, The 53.50 meter megayacht accommodates up to 12 guests in six cabins. Rental rates start at $315,000 per week, plus expenses.
Third, MI SUENO
Leading US filly Mi Sueno saw her promising career cut short by a condylar fracture of her off-fore cannonbone in 2009. She won the Grade 1 Darley Debutante at Del Mar. Mi Sueno was retired as a broodmare by trainer Eric Guillot. The daughter of Pulpit also won the Grade 3 Sorrento Stakes at Del Mar. After that, she beat Grade 1 winner Blind Luck in the Debutante.
Consequently, 190 foot motoryacht Mi Sueno, launched in 2010, is was a standout. She has WiFi and Kaleidescape central movie/music server throughout. She is also equipped with a 2-person, wheelchair-accessible elevator.
What do you get when… Merge these items. The vision of a new yacht owner who has never owned a boat. The talents of Europe’s leading design studios. Holland’s premier yacht builder.
This beauty launched in July. She is the latest creation by Feadship Royal Dutch Shipyards. Superyacht JOY’s owner is a young American from New York. She is not only the first yacht he has ever built. She is the first yacht he has ever owned.
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, commented on how the owner’s lack of involvement in the yachting industry led to the creation of a unique vessel, unlike any other yacht in the 70 meter range: “You take an ambitious, youthful person, who has no pre-conceived bias as to what is expected when you design and build a superyacht, and you open the door to a fresh perspective on how a yacht can reflect the owner’s vision of what The Superyacht Experience can be.”
At the commencement of the project, the owner’s brief was simple and clear. He brims with the optimism of youth. “Create something totally different to every other yacht.”
FRESH APPROACH NEEDED
Recognizing the need to bring a fresh approach to the entire project, Feadship reached out to designers never before retained. For the avant-garde exterior, they turned to the design studio of Bannenberg & Rowell. Interior architecture is by Studio Indigo. Visually, superyacht JOY looks like no other. The wide walkways and flow between the interior and exterior spaces are without precedent on superyachts of this size. Dickie Bannenberg comments. “You will see there are a lot of sculpted and rather complex surfaces that give the design a very unique look.”
THE CHALLENGES
Of course, crafting the fascinating concave shapes in the yacht’s superstructure presented challenges to the builder. The launch ceremony, as always, is grandiose. Feadship director Jan-Bart Verkuy comments as always. “JOY was an incredibly complicated boat to build with so many shapes and lines. We are very grateful to the fairing gods at Feadship. Also, to all the other craftsmen who have showcased their skills on such a unique boat.”
The proud new owner is equally pleased. The results of the challenging build amaze. “Studio Indigo has worked amazingly hard to produce such a gorgeous design with an incredible focus on detail. I’m also delighted with Bannenberg & Rowell’s sleek and progressive profile that reflects my desire to go forward into the future.”
THE NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH THE OWNER
Joy’s name reflects the owner’s joyous enthusiasm for life. M0reover, the opportunities for self-growth and exploration. These things that only time aboard a yacht can bring. The owner reflected on a recent visit he made to New York’s Central Park. “When I saw the statue of Columbus it reminded me of how much joy this explorer felt when he first saw land. Today is my moment of joy as something I have long dreamt about has come to light. I’m incredibly happy and sincerely grateful to Feadship and all the other team members who made this happen.”
SHEEDER COMMENTS
Sheeder is thrilled with the wellness yacht charter potential of the yacht.
“The mix of spa-like amenities is amazing. From her Jacuzzi sun deck, to the massage room. To the ocean-level beach club. Where else can you exercise in a gym with panoramic views of the sea? After which, rest and reflect in a minimalist interior with textures and colors? All of these designs to invoke feelings of tranquility and wellness?”
“In a sea of cookie-cutter designed boats, this is a transcendent yacht that will quickly set a new standard in the charter market.”
High-end car buffs will tell you there are varying degrees of luxury, from Cadillac at one end of the spectrum to Bentley and Rolls Royce at the other.
SUPERYACHTS
As it is with automobiles, the same range of sophistication also is seen in the megayacht market. While, high-end US-built Trinity yacht charter vessels are drop-dead gorgeous, for example, purists will point to the century-old Dutch yards that build the Rolls-Royce of the yachting world – the Feadship yacht charter vessels.
FEADSHIP
Feadship is renowned for exquisite craftsmanship and elegant layouts. The finest materials are used to handcraft these vessels, each a unique statement of an owner’s personal taste and style.
CARIBBEAN INSPECTIONS
One of the finest modern Feadships was recently on display last week in the Caribbean, during the annual charter broker gathering in Antigua – a prelude to the Caribbean winter/spring charter season. Motor yacht HARLE first hit the charter market in 2007. The team at 1-800-YACHT CHARTERS was among the very first to inspect this yacht and interview her crew as she began her maiden charter season from the Miami Beach marina in South Florida.
SUPERYACHT HARLE – STANDOUT
Feadship Superyacht HARLE
Fast-forward 5 years, and Feadship yacht HARLE is still making waves and drawing rave reviews in the industry. During the Antigua showcase, M/Y HARLE and her crew earned the following awards:
The Andreas Liveras “BEST YACHT PARTY” Award
First Place for his dessert for yachts in the 101′-150′ range won by Chef James Catling
RATE AND ACCOMMODATIONS
She is priced at $225,000 per week, and yacht HARLE accommodates up to 12 guests.
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:
Every year, the proud design team at Feadship unveils a concept model at theMonaco Yacht Show.
Our “spies” tell us this year’s show, scheduled for September 19-22, will once again feature a new design by the fabled Dutch builder, but with a twist – a client will be on hand. After catching a sneak peak of the new concept model, it seems the luxury yacht charter builder has taken superyacht styling to a new level. Features will include a radical new bridge layout and a feadship bridge layout spectacular crow’s nest.
During the show, Feadship’s newest client will be present to answer questions about this yet-to-be-named project.
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