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).
The 97 foot motor yacht AQUARIUS makes an announcement. She is offering a nearlyhalf-price offer for select dates in September and October in Fiji, 2012.
RATE AND AVAILABLE DATES
Her rate is reduced from $60,000 per week to $35,000 per week (plus running expenses). M/Y AQUARIUS has two openings for charter before she heads back to New Zealand. Available dates are 18 to 29 September, and 11 to 21 October, 2012.The charter rate is subject to local tax of 12.5%.
AQUARIUS Motoryacht
ACCOMMODATIONS
Launched in 2009 and built by Horizon Yachts, she accommodates up to eight guests in 4 staterooms.
Muscovites eager to enjoy a Mediterranean yacht charter vacation rejoiced! They now have two opportunities each week to fly. For instance, direct flights to Spain’s yachting capital – the Balearic islands.
S7 AIRLINES
S7 Airlines added twice-weekly direct flights between Moscow and Palma de Mallorca.
FLIGHT SCHEDULE
S7 Airlines offers the only scheduled direct service between Palma de Mallorca and Moscow. These flights take just four hours. This proves popular among Russians, because they have an alternative to traditional yacht charters in the Med.
ONEWORLD GLOBAL AVIATION ALLIANCE OGAA
S7 Airlines claims to operate one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the Russian air transportation industry. Additionally, they are a member of the oneworld global aviation alliance. For example, the Moscow-Palma flights can carry 128 passengers and will run twice a week. These fly on Thursdays and Sundays, on Airbus A319 aircraft.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know that only commercial yachts with a Spanish license can legally offer crewed charters that begin and end in Spanish waters?
BOOK A YACHT CHARTER
In conclusion, for your next yachting holiday, turn to the experts who understand the rules for a safe and memorable vacation. Contact the destination experts at 1-800 Yacht Charters HERE.
There are over 25 annual shows for superyacht vessels around the world. One show is the biggest and best. It is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS).
EXHIBITORS AT THE BOAT SHOW
The list of exhibitors at the boat show is typically VIP’s of the superyacht industry. Trinity, Feadship, Lurssen, and Benetti yacht charter enthusiasts are in awe at the sheer number of yachts gathered in one location.
“We can take our clients on a tour of several equal-sized yachts and let them compare deck space, cabin size, and onboard amenities.”
“Some of our most popular mega yacht charter vessels are here, for example, ANJILIS and BIG CITY (both along the Face Dock between slips 9A-D) and MARAYA (docked at Bahia Mar in slip A1).”
The 2009 showcase of luxury sail and motoryachts takes place October 29th through November 2nd.
The cost to rent a private yacht in the fabled south of France is about to go up. The impact on the economy has some in the charter industry concerned.
VAT EXEMPTION
In late November 2012, a European Union commission stated that the VAT exemption on chartering yachts in France is not compliant with EU VAT rules. France will now be required to take steps to remove the exemption from its tax legislation within two months, a ruling prompting one tax expert to say that France, “…cannot be regarded as a paradise for yachts anymore.”
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Yachts in Cannes France
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters explains how clients have escaped the VAT in France, until now.
“The rules for chartering yachts in the European Union changed back in 2010. Basically, chartering a yacht for less than 90 days requires VAT to be paid in the country where the chartered trip departs. France was able to avoid this ruling for many yachts by claiming that vessels registered as ‘commercial’ yachts could remain VAT exempt. To save thousands of Euros in tax-related expenses, we would only promote commercial yachts to our clients considering a cruise in France. Unfortunately, that option appears to be ending.”
RULE ENFORCEMENT
For the moment, France does not have a system in place to check and enforce the new rules. French tax experts believe the new charter tax will be up and running by summer 2013. Consequences for non-compliance may go from large penalties to even seizing the yacht.
WAIT FOR SUMMER
Sheeder is less certain the new rules will be in effect by the summer.
“The process might be delayed by political lobbyists who represent the interests of the vast French yachting sector, ” says Sheeder. “The French government will be pressured to find a way to prevent a massive exodus of yachts from French ports to other destinations with more favorable tax environments.”
BE PROACTIVE
Whether or not the new tax rule is delayed, Sheeder and her team are taking a proactive approach. “We will begin notifying our clients in the coming weeks to prepare for a potential increase in the total cost of their yachting vacations in French waters. Additionally, we are investigating other countries in the European Union as alternative Mediterranean yacht charter destinations. Gibraltar, for example, has no import duty for yachts over 18 meters – and no VAT.”
SAVE MONEY
Sheeder concludes, “If there is a way to save our clients money – we will find it.”
France’s efforts to seek an exemption from VAT on yacht rentals has failed, and starting July 15, 2013, charterers can expect to pay an additional 9.8% for their Côte d’Azur yacht charter.
For years, the majority of Mediterranean yacht charter vessels based in France were registered as commercial vessels. This is a strategy that allows their owners to sidestep VAT on the purchase of fuel and on the prices charged for charters. The European Union prevailed in court to force France to follow EU VAT guidelines. Beginning July 15, charters are subject to the nearly 10% fee.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants, Inc. is working closely with her preferred clients. She explains the new fees and to explore alternative destinations where the VAT fees are lower or even not applicable.
Sheeder says,
“We are investigating other countries in the European Union as alternative Mediterranean yacht charter destinations. Gibraltar, for example, has no import duty for yachts over 18 meters – and no VAT.”
We’ve all seen the images. For instance, a silhouette of a sailing yacht, lying at anchor near a secluded beach, the sun setting in the background, or the massive superyachts docked side-by-side in a marina along the Côte d’Azur. It’s not hard to imagine you and your family inserted in those yachting images, enjoying la belle vie.
Think you can afford a holiday at sea on a private yacht?
THE REAL QUESTION
Let’s start with understanding exactly what a yacht charter is all about…
WHAT Is A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
If you’ve ever stayed at a resort, you’ve already experienced the premise of a yachting vacation on a crewed yacht. From accommodations, to meals, activities and amenities.. Everything you and your family need are available in one location. The biggest difference is that your location “moves” when you charter a yacht!
For example, a Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel. Other travelers stay ashore and see the same view from their hotel window. For you, on the other hand, each day you can wake up and experience a new location. Your yacht cruises from island to island. Forget a virtual online slideshow. This is the real deal!
WHAT HAPPENS ONBOARD?
While onboard, you’ll be pampered by a crew of trained professionals. From a captain to navigate, to a host/hostess to serve you, and a chef to prepare your meals. The actual number of crew depends on the size of yacht you charter. It also depends on the level of service you request. There are often be more crew members than charter guests!
Just like the resort, the yacht offers accommodations, areas to relax and socialize, and a wide variety of recreational toys to enjoy. For example, snorkel gear and sandup paddleboards. The larger yachts offer a wider variety of toys and amenities. For instance, waverunners, cinema rooms, exercise equipment, and even ondeck Jacuzzi wellness spas.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YACHT AND RESORT
There is one more distinguishing difference when compared to a resort – it’s completely private – only you and your family and friends and your crew are onboard – no one else! Your confidentiality is assured with 1-800 Yacht Charters.
WHERE Are Luxury Yacht Charter Vacations Offered?
Again, the comparison to seaside resorts best illustrates the locations available for enjoying a yachting holiday – if it’s on the ocean, chances are there are yachts in the area available for hire!
Here’s a partial list of the most popular destinations for chartering a crewed yacht:
Caribbean – the islands of the Caribbean are popular in the winter and spring months, with sailing yachts heavily congregating in the breezy Virgin Islands, and larger motoryachts based in the celebrity-popular uber cosmopolitan areas like St. Martin and St Barts.
Mediterranean – the summer playground for Europeans, charter yachts can be found throughout the Greek islands, as well as along the Italian and French Riviera. In recent years, new cruising grounds in the Med have become increasingly popular, such as the Spanish Balearic Islands and Croatia.
Florida and the Bahamas – unlike Europeans who often take long, multi-week vacations, Americans take shorter holidays, often for no more than a long weekend. Staying closer to home becomes important when travel days are limited, so the idea of a Florida yacht charter escape is very popular, with the nearby Bahamas a strong option, as well.
HOW Can I Afford A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
If you guessed that we would once again go back and look at a resort for the answer – you’re right!
The price options for enjoying a crewed yacht directly compare to the prices of staying at a resort. Basic resorts in popular destinations can be very affordable for a family vacation, and so too can be the cost of a private yacht charter. Conversely, ultra exclusive resorts in posh settings charge premium rates – as do the most luxurious private yachts.
To put this into realistic perspective, here’s a sample of yachts and their prices:
SAILBOAT – sail yacht MORE MAGIC is a 68 foot Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel with accommodations for up to 6 guests in 3 staterooms. Her all-inclusive charter rates start at $18,000/week
MOTORYACHT – the 80 foot motor yacht JODI LEE offers both Bahamas and Florida yacht charter vacations for up to 6 passengers. Here base rate is $26,000/week plus a little extra to cover food, fuel, and dockage.
SUPERYACHT – up to 12 affluent travelers can explore the Mediterranean onboard the 2017 Amels yacht HERE COMES THE SUN, a 272 foot yacht with a crew of 25. Weekly rate is Euro €1,200,000 with additional fees for food, fuel, and dockage.
WHO Do I Call To Plan A Luxury Yacht Charter Vacation?
The owners of charter yachts rely on a network of professional yacht charter brokers to serve as the go-between for owners and anyone interested in securing a yacht for hire. 1-800 Yacht Charters has been delivering The Superyacht Experience to their clients for over 30 years, and maintains a database of more than 500 crewed charter yachts around the world.
Only 1-800 Yacht Charters offers a Best Price Guarantee and makes a donation to a recognized charity in your name when you make your reservation.
Jan Verkerk owns the 253-foot Icon motor yacht LEGEND. She is accepting reservations in Antarctica for the season. Specifically, from January 17 through February 18.
ALL ABOUT LEGEND
This incredible yacht is from 1973. Icon expedition yacht LEGEND underwent a complete rebuild in 2015. She is the only luxury yacht charter ice-breaker vessel in the world.
RESTORATION PROJECTS
This is Verkerk’s second superyacht restoration project. His other is highly popular 228 foot motor yacht SHERAKHAN. She is a star in the Mediterranean charter market.
Active charterers will delight in the opportunities for adventure offered on M/Y LEGEND. With accommodations for 26 guests, and space to carry a helicopter and a submarine, the possibilities for cold-weather adventure are endless. Of course, Verkerk made certain to include the mandatory superyacht amenities as well: gymnasium, Balinese spa, sauna, beauty salon, movie theater and swimming pool. There’s even a medical suite, for any emergencies.
After spending a few weeks in Antarctica, the yacht will head to Greenland for the summer charter season.
If you’re intrigued to step away from your traditional Caribbean charter vacation this summer, let us deliver the superyacht experience to you, your family, and friends in the last great frontier on earth – Antarctica…
Lady Michelle, one of the largest Trinity yachts in the international yacht charter fleet, is now available for an unforgettable vacationing experience.
The yacht reaches a blazing speed of 19 knots. She accommodates up to ten yacht charter guests in her five luxurious staterooms. The Lady has a professional crew of nine. Thus, you are guaranteed first class service throughout your cruise aboard Lady Michelle.
YACHT HIGHLIGHTS
She has many hightlights. For instance, a panoramic sky lounge and a covered exterior deck aft on the pilothouse level. In addition, al fresco dining for twelve.
Everything about Lady Michelle speaks of elegance and is sure to make your cruising vacation truly unforgettable.
We’re ready to put a summer discount of €30,000 in your pocket. What do you have to do? Just go yachting!
The owner of motor yacht IRISHA slashed the weekly charter rate for a great deal. Save €30,000 right now. Her rate was €280,000 per week. Now the rate is €250,000 per week.
This is a temporary discount – so please hurry!
ABOUT THE YACHT
The 2018 superyacht is 51 meters. Heesen yachts in Holland built the vessel. She accommodates 10 guests in 5 staterooms.
KEY FEATURES
First, the VIP stateroom converts into a full-beam suite. Second, the “Winter Garden” is an exterior space with interior weather. It can be heated or cooled. Third, the main dining table converts to seat 22 guests. This is perfect for entertaining during Special Events.
ADDITIONAL GREAT FEATURE
Another awesome favorite feature is her large sundeck bar with a TV screen.
DESTINATIONS & “YET”
The home port for yacht IRISHA is Portisco, Sardinia. The yacht is licensed as a “Pleasure vessel.” She cruises under the “YET” Scheme (Yacht Engaged in Trade). YET means charters must start in French waters. The yacht may cruise and end in French or Italian waters. There are no delivery fees if the charter starts in Bonifacio or Porto Vecchio.
CHARTERER DETAILS
The Principal Charterer must be a non-EU resident. He or she can be an EU national. A non-EU address is required on the charter contract. Furthermore, Monaco is fiscally counted as part of the EU. Thus, the Principal Charterer cannot be a Monaco resident.
SUMMARY
In summary, your charter must start in French waters. Additionally, you can start in Monaco or Corsica. Thereafter, you can cruise and disembark in Italian waters. Finally, the Principal Charterer must be a non-EU resident.
TOYS FOR YOU TO USE
Active families loves luxury yacht charter vacations. Are you ready to get wet and wild?
There are many toys onboard. For example, have fun racing on the stand-up jet ski, or 3-person waverunner. After that, get towed behind the 6.77m Ribeye RIB. Additional toys include a wakeboard, inflatable ring, and waterskis.
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