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Tag Archives: president of 1-800 Yacht Charters

Airport Body Scanners – Are They a Risk?

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airport body scanners x-ray image of heavyset woman from the back. She has a handgun hidden in her waistband. The  background is black, and her image is a light blue and is shadowy.
THE ISSUE

You’ve been looking forward to this day for months.  You’re at the airport, and you are ready to board a flight that will take you to your rented yacht.  You finally proceed to begin your Virgin Islands yacht charter vacation.  As you pass through the new airport body scanner, it crosses your mind that you may be concerned about the radiation and what this exposure could mean for you.
 
Some researchers agree.

ARE AIRPORT BODY SCANNERS SAFE?

We are very concerned about that being imposed on travelers,” says Dr. Robert Stroud, a  professor of biophysics at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).  In a letter sent to the White House, Stroud and his researchers shared their concerns.  “I don’t think we do know what risk we are taking. X-rays are intrinsically ionizing radiation. They damage human tissue,” says Stroud.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Government assure the public that passing through the body scanner is safe. A TSA spokesperson even stated, “We consider it a miniscule amount of radiation.”
 

SCIENTISTS DISAGREE

The scientists at UCSF  believe that it is time for outside scientists to take a closer look at airport body scanners and their risk.

I do think it is time for an independent investigation that really allows people to understand what the risk is that they take going through the scanner,” says Stroud.

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENT

If you have a concern about the exposure to x-rays coming from the body scanner, simply opt for the pat down,” says Sheeder.  “When you are on your way to enjoy a luxury yacht charter in the islands, the last thing you need is more travel-related stress!

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In conclusion, do you believe airport body scanners pose a risk to you when you travel?  Please share your comments with us at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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Amendment to Italian Yacht Tax Applauded By Luxury Yacht Charter Industry

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Photograph of Portofino, Italy marina. Green mountain in the background. Colorful red, yellow, and orange houses along the shoreline. Classic Portofino photograph. Dark turquoise water in harbor. Multiple sailboats and motoyachts anchored in the harbor.

 

ITALIAN YACHT TAX INFORMATION

In January we informed our readers of a new Italian yacht tax signed into law in December 2011.  The tax is effective May 1, 2012.  It assesses a fee for each day a yacht is in service in Italian waters.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

Superyacht industry experts, like Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters, and others, urged Italian authorities to analyze the economic impact of the pending legislation.

“Our concern was the quest for increased tax revenue might have a far-reaching effect on both the charter industry. In addition, ancillary businesses that support yachting such as marinas, fuel brokers, shipyards, and tourism offices,”  said Sheeder. “Even if you exclude charter revenues, support-related industries on their own generate  €200,000,000 in annual revenue.”

To their credit – the Italian lawmakers listened.

Photograph of the Italian government. Photo shows 6 levels of seating, as if an orchestra audience, full of men and women in dark-colored suits.

AMENDMENT ON TAX

On Tuesday, February 21, the 10th Commission of the Italian Senate for Industry, Commerce, and Tourism passed the Grillo and Cutrufo amendment to the Italian berth tax legislation.  The amendment stipulates the berthing tax will only be applied to Italian citizens who own a vessel, even if the yacht flies a foreign flag.   Foreign citizens who own a boat or Mediterranean yacht charter vessel are exempt from this tax, regardless of their length of stay in Italian waters.

 

INDUSTRY COMMENTS

Fulvio Luise, President of Federagenti Yacht Division, expressed his satisfaction comments.  “The passing of this amendment is an important recognition to the economic impact the yachting industry has in Italy and we look forward to welcoming new and returning megayacht clients to Italian waters this summer.”

Sheeder echoed Luise’s sentiments:

“This amendment will allow Italy to continue to compete on an equal playing field with neighboring countries for the charter sector of the Mediterranean yachting market.  We’re hopeful that the Italian yacht charter market will continue to flourish for many more years.”

 

WHO KNOWS LAWS ON YACHT CHARTERS?

We know the rules and regulations on yacht charters worldwide.  To hire a yacht in France, Italy, Spain or elsewhere in the Mediterranean, contact us.  We are the 1-800 Yacht Charters destination experts.  Click https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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Bahamas COVID Travel Guidelines For The Holidays

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FATIGUE FROM BEING HOUSEBOUND?

Looking for a change of scenery?  We get it.  “Pandemic fatigue” is starting to set in for most of us.  Indeed, the idea of escaping the “Covid blues” sounds better and better every day. Covid travel restrictions are important to know.

 

COVID-19 GUIDELINES BELOW

For many affluent travelers, a holiday luxury yacht charter is very appealing.   After all, if you have to practice social-distancing, why not set up camp on a private yacht?

 

MUCH OF CARIBBEAN HAS TOUGH RESTRICTIONS

Unfortunately, much of the Caribbean is still imposing harsh restrictions on tourism.  For example, mandatory tourist quarantines are in place in the British Virgin Islands. It is the most popular yacht charter destination in the world.   We anticipate these restrictions will still be in effect for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

 

BAHAMAS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.

Photograph of a family enjoying a charter on a catamaran sailboat at anchor. They are playing in the water and sunbathing on the deck. The water is clear and turquoise. There is an island in the background. The sailboat is all white. There are 6 people on the boat. The boat is facing the upper right side of the photograph

Travel restrictions in the Bahamas have relaxed significantly compared to the start of the year.  Still, there are strict guidelines for Bahamas yacht charter guests.

 

THE COVID-19 GUIDELINES FOR THE BAHAMAS

Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.

 

GET TESTED BEFORE ARRIVAL

These rules apply to every guest over 10 years old.  Each passenger on your yacht must get an RT PCR nasal swab Covid-19 test 5 days or less before arrival.  Test results from any other type of COVID-19 test are unacceptable.  Passengers under the age of 10 do not need to be tested.   All tests must be negative for entering the Bahamas.

 

SUBMIT A HEALTH VISA

Each guest must complete a travel health visa, along with submitting a negative Covid-19 test,.  The application is available online.  First, go to www.travel.gov.bs.  Second, select “International,” and create an account.  Fill out your visa information, upload your negative test results, and submit your application.  Allow up to 72 hours to receive an approval confirmation.  IMPORTANT TO NOTE, you need to print the approval document and bring it with you.  You must present the document to Bahamian officials when entering the country.

 

5 Little Known Facts About The Bahamas

 

PURCHASE COVID-19 HEALTH INSURANCE

You must opt-in for health insurance when you complete your health visa application.  Specifically, you will be covered for any Covid-19 health issues during your time in the Bahamas.  For example, the cost of a mandatory rapid antigen test (required on day 5 of your visit) will be covered.  You’ll also be covered if you require quarantine (up to $7000) or medical evacuation (up to $50,000).  Charter guests staying 4 days or less pay $40 for coverage. Visitors staying more than four days pay $60.

 

TAKE A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST ON DAY 5

You are required to take this test if you stay in the Bahamas for 5 or more days.   You must quarantine aboard your charter yacht while you await the results of the test.  Don’t worry, results are typically texted or emailed within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT NOTE, a rapid antigen test is not required if you have no plans to go ashore during your charter.

 

SUBMIT A DAILY ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY

Charter guests are required to answer an online health questionnaire each day. This survey is used to identify potential Covid-19 symptoms. Any guests who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms during their charter will be required to take a rapid antigen test. Any positive results will require a Covid-19 RT-PCR swab test.

 

FOLLOW ONSHORE SAFETY PROTOCOLS

There are rules and requirements to follow when onshore.  For example, wearing a face mask is mandatory in public places, except on the beaches.  Additionally, social distancing is expected wherever possible in public areas. Finally, be aware that some of the individual islands have evening curfews.

 

IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS, RIGHT?

It’s nice to know we can escape to the Bahamas during the holidays.  Specifically, since so many restrictions are still in place in our hometowns.  As they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.”  Test it out!  Everyone can enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter vacation IF we follow the guidelines listed above.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, stands on superyacht deck at yacht show

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters

Jana Sheeder, President and Co-owner of 1-800 Yacht Charters says,

This has been an unsettling year for everyone. You owe it to yourself,  friends, and loved ones to appreciate and enjoy the holidays.  Relax and reflect upon all that we have, and do.  Take time to smell the roses and to express gratitude.  Show yourself some love and plan a well-earned vacation.  Push away the stress,k and leave the fatigue behind.  Welcome mindfulness and wellness.  Make memories and celebrate another year of togetherness.  Please stay safe, follow the rules, and take Covid-19 prevention seriously.  Regardless, please have a WONDERFUL holiday.  Love, Jana

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Benetti Yacht Relocates To Indian Ocean

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Photograph of a big white motoryacht underway. She is headed toward the right side of the picture. There is a dark brown tender running next to her, toward the bottom of the screen. Heading toward the right side of the photo, also.

SILVER ANGEL motoryacht

MEDITERRANEAN YACHT CHARTER

Travelers clamor for unique vacation destinations nowadays. In lieu of that, a stalwart vessel of the Mediterranean yacht charter fleet makes an announcement.  Above all, it plans to relocate to the Indian Ocean for the upcoming winter season.

SILVER ANGEL

Benetti motor yacht SILVER ANGEL bases in the Seychelles. She is available for hire as early as the first week of December there.  In reality, charters in the Maldives will also be considered. 
She launched in 2009.  The 211 foot yacht SILVER ANGEL,  by the famed Italian shipyard, Benetti, is gorgeous. 

ACCOMMODATIONS

Silver Angel accommodates a maximum 12 guests in 7 guest cabins.  A crew complement of 21 is onboard to operate the vessel and pamper her guests.

 

RATE

Winter rental rates are $450,000 per week plus running expenses.  Relocation fee for charters in the Maldives is approx $22,000.  This covers the fuel cost for the 3-day delivery from the Seychelles to the Maldives.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. 

“We are excited to offer our clients the opportunity to relax onboard one of the largest yachts in the world, in the eco-unique setting of the Indian Ocean.”

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER VACATION

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Best Family Yacht Offers Caribbean Yacht Charters this Winter

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Profile photograph of blue-hulled motor yacht JO underway. She is horizontally headed toward the lower right side of the photo. The Superyacht Experience(tm) created by 1800yachtcharters

PRESENTING JO

Motor yacht JO, the 164-foot Benetti yacht charter vessel makes announcement.  She plans to spend the winter season in the Caribbean.

superyacht world magazine cover featuring motoryacht jo AWARD-WINNING YACHT

Voted Best Family Charter Yacht 2011 by Superyacht World magazine.  The 2004 Benetti motoryacht JO accommodates 12 guests in 6 staterooms.

 

CAPTAIN COMMENTS

Captain Ian Robertson reflects on this yacht.  She is unique in the industry. For instance, the combination of a tranquil environment, and modern amenities. 

“There is an atmosphere that radiates calmness, and you feel it from the moment you step aboard,” says Robertson. “The yacht as a whole is meticulously maintained, participating in two yard (maintenance) periods per year.  Our owner understands the importance of updating tenders, watersports equipment, and the onboard entertainment equipment on a regular basis.”

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

“There are plenty of watertoys both for children and adults,” says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters.  “The 12 crew members onboard motor yacht JO are among the best family-friendly professionals in the industry.”

a white plate with veal zurich and white potatoes and broccoli on it

FOODIE CELEBRATION

Foodies appreciate the talents of chef David Beltran. He cooks with both passion and flare. His signature dish is “Veal Zurich.”  At mealtime, Beltran explains his menus to the guests.  To make it fun, he speaks in rhyming couplets. He often interjects a few words in Italian, Spanish, German, and French!

SIMILAR SUPERYACHTS FOR RENT

There are similar yachts available for hire in the Caribbean. For example, 50 meter motor yacht WHEELS and 58 meter yacht SKYFALL.   In addition, 45 meter motor yacht ILLUSION.

 

RATES

Rates for motor yacht JO range.  They vary from $175,000 per week for non-premium periods to $225,000 per week for year-end holidays.  Running expenses are extra. 

 

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER

To reserve yacht JO, click HERE at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us

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Best Yacht Charter – Commitment to Generosity & Clients Defines Company

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RECOMMENDED BY FORBES

After 30+ years in the business, 1-800 Yacht Charters is still doing the things that earned them the title of  “World’s Best Private Cruise” as recognized by Forbes.com.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

So how does the company continue to attract active, well-traveled clients when many of their competitors offer the same yachts?  According to 1-800 Yacht Charters company President, Jana Sheeder, it’s all about “Focus.”

We don’t charter yachts,” says Sheeder, “we deliver The Superyacht Experience™ to our clients.”

Photograph of Jana Sheeder sitting on a yacht

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and 1-800 BAREBOAT

 

Sheeder goes on to explain her company’s philosophy.  “Our mission began with a simple question.  ‘What would happen if we built our business for #generosity?’ Instead of assuming that people want to simply maximize self-interest, our decision to focus on generosity allowed us to cater to our clients’ deeper motivations to make the world a better place.”

“This focus has propelled us to move beyond the basic rental of yachts and to deliver a true Superyacht Experience. While our competitors focus on finding the customer the “right boat,” we choose to take a more holistic approach.”

 

HOW A YACHT CHARTER INQUIRY IS PROCESSED

When a #luxury yacht charter inquiry comes in, Sheeder and her team of consultants interview the potential clients to learn what makes them tick.

“Today’s affluent world travelers are looking for more than just a static vacation on a yacht, says Sheeder.  “They’re wired, connected, and driven by sustainability and the greater social good.” 

Furthermore, Sheeder says the clients hope to immerse themselves and participate in unique cultural events and #voluntourism.  Their chartered yacht serves as a platform to an eco-friendly adventure.  “It’s a chance to reconnect with family and friends, embrace diverse cultures, and rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit,” says Sheeder.  She chuckles and adds, “Besides, we often don’t even discuss particular yachts until our second or third conversation.”

SHEEDER CONTINUES

Sheeder admits some clients are puzzled at first.  Most charter brokers immediately try to match the client to a particular yacht and crew.  “At some point, they realize our entire focus is on them,” says Sheeder.  “We share with them our sense of purpose, our commitment to promoting yachts and crews dedicated to protecting our environment, and how we created our business for generosity.  Then, we explain our ‘Best Price Guarantee’ – something no other yacht charter brokerages offer in our industry.”

For Sheeder, focusing on generosity, sustainability, and taking the time to learn what motivates her clients is a recipe for success and fosters a deep sense of fulfillment. “We create a bond where we and the client work together [holding her hands together with fingers entwined] – synergistically – not only to create a special experience, but also to make a difference in the world.”  

Jana Sheeder poses with Guy Harvey representative. Both hold mooring reef buoys that are placed above reefs in the ocean to protect reefs from anchor damage from boats. The round buoys reflect a horizontal line in the photo, as the photographer flash hits them. Best karma for generosity in yacht charters

1-800 Yacht Charters  – Delivering Your Superyacht Experience Since 1976(TM)

Best Selection – Global Database of over 1400 Yachts

  • LARGEST Yachts – 182 yachts bigger than 50 meters (164 feet)
  • NEWEST Yachts – 99 yachts newer than 3 years old; 49 BRAND NEW yachts (under 1 year old)…numbers updated daily

Best Guarantee:   We Meet or Beat ALL Competitors’ Rates

Best Brands:  The Most Exclusive Yacht Builders

For instance, Benetti, Trinity, Lürssen, and Feadship

In addition, Oceanco, Heesen, Perini Navi, and more

Best Yacht Charter Destinations

Yachts in Dozens of Popular, and Exotic, Locales

 

For example, Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific and Asia, and Florida, Bahamas, and North America

Further, South America, South Pacific, New England, Thousand Islands, NY, Canada, and more

Best Events – Corporate Hospitality and Special Event Charters

  • International #FilmFestivals – Cannes, Venice, New York
  • #Formula1 Grand Prix – Monaco, Abu Dhabi
  • #FIFA World Cup
  • ICC Cricket World Cup
  • #Olympic Games
  • NFL Superbowl
  • Fashion Weeks — Paris, Milan, Miami, New York – #fashionweeks
  • Drone Grand Prix – #dronegrandprix
  • …and more

Best “Karma”

  • Most Eco-Friendly Yachts #eco #sustainability
  • Industry-leading Programs To Reduce Ocean Pollution
  • Charitable Aid Through “Giftivism” Program #giftivism
  • Entire Company Focused on Giving Back and Making a Difference #makeadifference
  • Free Gifts for Charter Guests #freegifts

Best Reputation

    • Recognized for greatness.  1-800 Yacht Charters rises above the competition and was recognized by Forbes.com as the “World’s Best Private Cruise”
    • Over 30 Years.  Delivering Your Superyacht Experience™ Since 1976™
    • Nominated, Sponsored, and Voted Member of:

-International Superyacht Society

-Florida Yacht Brokers Association (now “IYBA”)

-Caribbean Yacht Brokers Association

 

Choose the Best Yacht, the Best Price, and Best Environmental Sustainability!

Make the BEST choice — choose 1-800 Yacht Charters

In conclusion, contact 1-800 Yacht Charters at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ to plan The Superyacht Experience™ for you today.

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Caribbean Yacht Charter – Go Green to Save the Blue

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ECO-FRIENDLY PRACTICES

An association of charter brokers has announced an award to recognize luxury sailing charter vessels who adopt eco-friendly practices.

SAVE THE BLUE

The  Charter Yacht Brokers Association International (CYBA) has launched the 2012 “Save the Blue” awards, as a continuation of the organization’s green initiative to reduce plastic water bottle waste by encouraging yachts to produce their own onboard purified drinking water.    
Logo for Going Green To Save the Blue CYBA yacht charter association

YACHTS GO GREEN

Vessels available for charter can qualify for the award by meeting at least seven of the thirty criteria that CYBA has listed in an online survey.  Many of the criteria are simple to implement and include green practices such as using biodegradable cleaners, buying sustainable seafood, and using recyclable shopping bags. 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

“By undertaking a few simple eco-friendly practices, the fleet of yachts for hire in the Caribbean can make a dramatic impact on the island environment.  Our Team commends CYBA’s efforts.”        
CYBA is hopeful these awards inspire others. For instance, captains, crews and owners. The association wants them to take more steps. In specific, to go green.  Qualifying vessels are recognized at the upcoming charter industry winter shows in St. Thomas, Tortola, and Antigua. 
Special mention will be given.  Specifically, to the “Most Eco-friendly Sailing Yacht”     

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER

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Catamaran RAFOLY – Golf and Sail Spain

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Aerial photograph of a golf course green on the ocean. There are 3 sand traps on the green. There is a sailboat anchored in the bay in the distance.
A NEW YACHT CHARTER IDEA

Catamaran Rafoly presents an exciting and fun yacht charter vacation option.  The Blubay 92 catamaran  will cruise the waters of Spain’s Balearic Islands.   Mallorca has some of Europe’s finest championship golf courses.  Mallorca is the largest of the Spanish. 

WHAT IS INCLUDED

The yacht’s own golf pro helps guests select courses and make all arrangements during the 6 night charter, and the package includes 3 complimentary green fees. 

In addition to the golf component of the trip, the package also includes airport transfers, all food and beverages (including ship’s bar), and use of the yachts onboard watersports inventory.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENT

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants, feels this package will have great appeal to golfers and non-golfers, alike. 

Most golf-oriented vacations focus primarily on the golfer,”  says Sheeder.  “By adding a golf element to a yachting vacation, the non-golfers can have just as much fun as the golfers. We envision a group of 3 or 4 heading to the links, while others in the charter party go for an afternoon sail, or stop and anchor for a swim.”

Sheeder emphasizes that the location is what makes this package special.  “The Balearics are to Spain what the Côte d’Azur is to France.  There are numerous cafes, upscale boutiques, and nightclubs, and plenty of small coves where you can anchor and be away from the crowds.”

CATAMARAN RAFOLY OFFERS MULTIPLE COURSES 

Golfers can hone their skills on any of 7 courses:

 

ACCOMMODATIONS

Launched in 2008, RAFOLY is a 92-foot luxury yacht charter catamaran, with accommodations for up to 8 passengers in 4 staterooms. She is a high class sail mega yacht, elegant and refined, and made for cruising with one’s friends and family on a vacation of a lifetime. 

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Center Stage Belongs To Florida Luxury Yacht Charter Vessels at Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show

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WELCOME THE FT. LAUDERDALE YACHT SHOW

The  2013 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 31-Nov 4, 2013, has drawn to a close.  Picture-perfect weather brought out record numbers of boating enthusiasts.

54th ANNUAL

The 54th installment of the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, FLIBS, covers six locations and over 3 million square feet of space. Exhibits range from yacht builders and designers, to exotic cars and brokerage yachts. A variety of boats are on display, both in water and on land – runabouts, center consoles, cabin cruisers, skiffs, sailing yachts, tenders, superyachts, megayachts, powerboats, catamarans, and monohull sailboats.
Aerial photograph of the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show. Thousands of yachts at docks.
Of course the star attractions each year remain the extraordinary superyacht vessels that dominate the Caribbean yacht charter marketplace each winter.  
“For us, FLIBS represents the launch of the winter charter season,” says Jana Sheeder , President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters“This is our chance to introduce our clients to the winter season’s best options for Florida yacht charter vacations.  Additionally, many of these yachts will consider relocating to the nearby islands to accept Bahamas yacht charter bookings.”

YACHTS IN ATTENDANCE

Among the charter yachts on hand at FLIBS were: 
2009 187 foot #sailboat yacht MONTIGNE 
2010 224 foot Nobiskrug motor yacht SYCARA V
2010 190 foot Trinity super yacht MI SUENO

WATERTOY UPDATES

In addition to the hundreds of yachts on display, Sheeder points out the show is the perfect venue for inspecting and testing the hottest new watertoys.
“If we see a ‘must have’ toy that we feel will enhance the charter experience for our clients, we’ll be the first to promote it to the charter yacht owners.  There is truly something for everyone at FLIBS.”

HOW TO RENT A YACHT CHARTER

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Covid-19 UPDATE. Yacht Charter Maven Policy

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QUESTION

“When these difficult times return to normal, our family is interested in booking a yacht charter for late summer in Greece.

We’re worried if unforeseen coronna (sp) virus issues could arise we might be forced to cancel, and we don’t want to lose our deposits.

Is there anything we can do to protect ourselves?”

-Vanessa A, East Fallowfield, PA

 

Photograph of Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters

ANSWER

“Hi, Vanessa.  The short and simple answer is:

‘YES.  There are things 1-800 Yacht Charters can do to protect you should you need to cancel your charter due to Covid-19 issues.’  

There are insurance products available for trip cancellations, but they are not uniform in their coverage options.  I have developed and implemented a 2-part strategy to protect our clients.

 1.  FREE Cancellation Policy (penalty-free Covid-19 refund policy) 

2.  Modified Charter Contracts with a Covid-19 protection addendum    

 You can stop reading here, and know we’ve got your back.  Please read on, if you want a more in-depth explanation…”

Jana L Sheeder, President, 1-800 Yacht Charters

 

 

CHARTER CANCELLATIONS – THE PROBLEM

As a general rule, yacht charter contracts are written to protect the yacht owner and his/her asset (the yacht). This is in the event of damages or cancellations.  The rationale is simple. Specifically, the client may be paying thousands of dollars to enjoy a vacation on a yacht.  However, the owner’s exposure is far greater.  Moreover, many yachts are worth millions of dollars. Owners wisely use a well-crafted, legal charter agreement to protect themselves.

One example of how owners protect themselves is known as the “Force majeure provision.”  This clause is inserted into most luxury yacht charter agreements.  It gives the owner the right to cancel a charter due to “Acts of God.”  These are acts/events that prohibit the yacht and crew from proceeding with the charter.

Understanding Force Majeure in Yacht Charter Agreements

 

 

HOW DOES FORCE MAJEURE PROVISION WORK?

This relates to the Covid-19 virus situation.  Under the force majeure provision, a yacht owner has to return the charter money to the customer. This is if the yacht cannot perform due to marina closures, virus-infected crew members etc.    That’s good news for the charter customer. However…

 

IF THE CHARTERER CANCELS

IF the charterer is the one who cancels, things work differently.  Even due to Covid-19 issues (for instance, due to a quarantine or flight cancellation), the Owner has the right to claim ALL of the installments paid and due  from the Charterer.  In other words, the Charterer forfeits any and all monies paid to date for the charter!  The owner is not obligated to reschedule or to give the funds back.

 

OUR OPINION

We believe that the force majure provision is the main reason potential charterers withdrew their inquiries for spring and early summer. Some clients willingly canceled their trips. They know they would lose their initial deposits.  They wanted to stop the bleeding now.  Stop it before second and third deposits were due as the charter dates draw closer.

 

CHARTER CANCELLATIONS – THE SOLUTION

1-800 Yacht Charters now offers a penalty-free Covid-19 refund policy* on a large selection of luxury charter yachts.   To insure the yacht owners comply, we prepare an addendum to the standard charter agreement.  This addendum clearly states the owner of the yacht agrees to a full refund. This is if the charterer is forced to cancel due to Covid-19 issues.

Now charterers can protect their deposits in 2 ways.  They can either reschedule their trip(s) to a future date or receive a complete refund.

 

WANT MORE INFO?

Would you like to review the Covid-19 charter addendum? Send an email request to info@1800yachtcharters.com today.  Please include your full name and phone number in your email. In conclusion, we have your back. Our team at 1-800 Yacht Charters values your business and vacations. We protect you.

 

 

TO WHAT DOES THE * (ABOVE) APPLY?

*This new policy does not apply to all yachts.  It also may depend upon the charter destination and charter dates.  Certain restrictions apply.  Please check with your yacht charter consultant before proceeding with your reservation. More importantly, clarify this before making any deposits or payments.

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