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Adios! Spain To Abolish Private Luxury Yacht Charter Tax

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HOW MUCH IS A TRIP TO THE BALEARICS?

The cost to enjoy a Balearic Island yacht charter vacation should soon be going down.  The Spanish government announced that they have ceased implementation of the IEDMT (Impuesto Especial sobre Determinados Medios de Transporte).  In other words, better known in the yachting industry as the Matriculation Tax.
  Aerial photograph of Ibiza, Spain.  Photo shows rocky cliffs and green trees on the left side, dark blue water in the center of the photo, and rocky cliffs on the opposite side. There is a powerboat in the water.

COST OF TAX 

First introduced in 1992, the tax equaled up to 13.7% of a vessel’s value.  It applied to all yachts over 15 meters used commercially. For instance, charter vessels.
In addition to the standard VAT imposed on charters, the cost to own a superyacht or rent a yacht in Spanish waters became prohibitive.  This is when compared to other European Union countries. 

PROTESTS BY THE MARITIME INDUSTRY

Protests by the Spanish and Mediterranean maritime industry have been ongoing ever since.  Numerous reports outlined how the tax was causing economic harm, not benefit, to employment and economic activity in Spain.  Some studies showed losses to the economy of 10 million euro per weekend alone, in high season.

RESCINDING THE TAX

For years, Spain ignored the calls to rescind the matriculation tax .  In 2011, the European Union Court of Justice declared the Spanish Boat Tax an “unlawful practice,” yet Spanish authorities ignored the guidance laid down by the EU.
Fortunately, the Spanish government finally listened.

THE MINISTRY COMMENTS

According to a statement released by the Spanish Ministry of Finance and Public Administrations in July, the Ministry will, “…cease the application of  Matriculation Tax to vessels of 15m+ engaged in commercial activity.”
While the news is widely heralded as positive, many hurdles remain before chartering in Spanish waters becomes competitive with other regions in the European Union. 
“Spanish IVA (VAT) remains at 21% – nearly double the typical fees found in other EU countries,” states Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters. Sheeder adds, “A myriad of permits and registration requirements makes it difficult for charter vessels to commit to cruising in Spain.Without Spanish registration, these yachts cannot begin and end a charter within Spanish waters.  So the combination of  administrative burdens and high IVA keeps most charter yachts out of Spain.”     

THE TAX REMAINS

It should also be noted the matriculation tax has not been eliminated.  
Sheeder explains,
“The tax has not been eliminated. The Ministry was careful to use the words, ‘Ceased to be applied.’   While we expect the Spanish Parliament to vote in favor of the Ministry’s position on the matriculation tax, there is no guarantee that a future administration won’t vote to reinstate it.”

STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Still, the abolishment of the matriculation tax is a step in the right direction.  Parliament’s approval is expected within the next few months and the new exemption should be in place in time for the summer 2014 charter season.

 

HOW DO I BOOK A YACHT CHARTER?

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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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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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French Yacht Charter VAT Now In Effect

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EXEMPTION ON VAT TAX SOUGHT

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.

Photograph of the island of Ischia, Italy. There is a large island with green trees at the top, homes at the bottom along the coastline,. Boats in the harbour. Blue sky with fluffy clouds. The island is on the left side of the photograph. The ocean is on the right side of the photograph.

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.”

WHERE IS THE BEST DESTINATION TO CHARTER A YACHT?

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Global Superyacht Charter Maven Closes 2011 with 40 New Luxury Yachts

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

Jana Sheeder

As the year draws to a close, luxury yacht charter maven Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants and 1-800 Yacht Charters, is beaming. 

MAVEN COMMENTS

“We’ve closed our year with the addition of 40 brand new 2011 models to our global network of yacht charter vessels.  The largest of our new offerings is the 81 meter Feadship motor yacht AIR, followed by Proteksan Turquoise yacht TALISMAN MAITON (ex-Talisman C) and Rossi Navi motor yacht HIGH POWER III (ex-Numptia), both 70 meters in overall length.”

 

NEWEST AND LARGEST YACHTS

Sheeder’s companies have a reputation of offering the newest and largest yachts in the world’s best destinations.  She and her teams spend countless hours identifying potential charter yachts.

“Rarely do we add any yacht to our fleet that is more than two to three years old, “ says Sheeder.  “Even when we consider classic-styled yachts, we prefer to promote modern reproductions of famous yachts.  Clients know they can turn to us for yachts that are on the cutting edge of new technology and styling.”

 

CLASSIC SAILBOAT

Profile photograph of classic sailboat, Germania Nova, underway

Germania Nova classic saiilboat replica

An example of Sheeder’s pursuit of modern yachts is the newly launched 47 meter sail yacht GERMANIA NOVA, a replica of a classic racing schooner first launched in 1908. Says Sheeder,

“Turn of the century guests onboard the original yacht would marvel at the technological comforts onboard this modern vessel. From satellite televisions to 5.1 Dolby surround sound, the only thing ‘old’ on this yacht is the classic design.”

 

 

AWARD-WINNING YACHTS

Important to realize, many of the new yachts are award winners in global design competitions. Competitions, for instance, the annual ShowBoats Design Awards. 

“We pay close attention to these competitions,” reports Sheeder.  “The best designers and naval architects in the world judge these yachts.  Odds are great that if the best minds in the industry like a boat, our clients will, too.”

 

SUPERYACHT EXUMA

superyacht of the week Exuma eco-friendly green motoryacht

Superyacht EXUMA

 

Recent award winners promoted by SailAway to their clients include late 2010 launch Perini Navi motor yacht EXUMA (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Displacement Motor Yachts 100-199).  Also, the 42 meter Holland Jachtbouw motor yacht CALLIOPE (Best Exterior Design & Styling Award: Semi-displacement Motor Yachts).

 

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE NEW YEAR

In conclusion, as to the new year, Sheeder is even more optimistic. 

Our research indicates that 72 new megayachts were ordered in 2011, the largest at 100 meters, and an average length of almost 43 meters. Eighty per cent of these newly-built yachts will be launched in 2012 or 2013, and we’ll surely have an entirely new inventory of yachts-for-hire to present to our discriminating clientele!”

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER VACATION


To charter a newly launched yacht, contact SailAway’s charter department at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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Happiest of Holidays to our Luxury Yacht Charter Family

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Photos. Palm trees in center of image. Top left is a motoryacht coming into the center. Top right is a sailboat. Bottom right is a motoraycht underway, heading toward the lower left side of the photo. Bottom left photo is a poinsettia plant sitting on the sand with the words Happy Holidays written in script across it.

GRATITUDE TO ALL

At this wonderful time of the year, we at SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants and 1-800 Yacht Charters wish our “yacht charter family” of discriminating clients, superyacht owners, professional crew members, management professionals, vendors, corporate and special event attendees, personal assistants, agents, concierges, and EVERYONE with whom we’ve had the privilege and honor to work and spend time with this year, a very happy holiday season. 

YOU MAKE US WHO WE ARE

We are eternally grateful to you for your patronage, readership, comments, suggestions, and interest in our offerings.  Whether superyacht charters, renting a private yacht, bareboat charter, or yacht charters in locations such as Greece, the Virgin Islands, St. Barts, or the French or Italian Riviera.  Further, Ibiza, the Bahamas, New England, or anywhere else in the world.  We SINCERELY appreciate you. 

 

THANK YOU

Thank you for being in our lives and for helping us to make a difference in this world. In addition, for being valuable members of Team SailAway, 1-800 Yacht Charters, bareboat.com, and The SailAway Group.  Here’s to a wonderful year and future ahead for all.

 

ONE BIG FAMILY

*  Happy Holidays  *  Merry Christmas  *  Happy Winter Solstice  *  Happy Kwanzaa  *  Feliz

Navidad  *  Happy Hanukkah and Thanksgivukkah *  Buone Feste   *  Joyeuses Fêtes  *  Hag Sameach  *

Felices Fiestas  *  Trevlig Helg  *  Boas Festas  *  Mutlu Bayramlar  *  Sarbatori Fericite  *

*  Jie Ri Yu Kuai  *  Bones Festes  *  Tanoshii kurisumasu wo  * Ii holide eximnandi  *

*  Forhe Feiertage  *  Prettige feestdagen  *  Hau’oli Lanui  *  Beannachtaí na Féile  *

*  Vesele Praznike  *  Selamat Hari Raya  *  Sretni praznici  *  QISmaS DatIvjaj  *

*  Shinnen omedeto  *  Kurisumasu Omedeto  *   

*  veselykh prazdnikov  *  Gozhqq Keshmish  *  shèngdàn kuàilè  * 

*  Kalá hristúyenna  *  Ya’at’eeh Keshmish  *   Bonu nadale  *   Feliz Natal  *

 

In conclusion, we are just eternally grateful to you.

 

Sincerely,

Jana

Jana L. Sheeder
President and Owner
SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants and
1-800 Yacht Charters
Delivering The Superyacht Experience™ Since 1976

http://www.1800sailaway.com and
https://1800yachtcharters.com
Facebook:  Jana Sheeder
Twitter:     yacht_charters
Instagram:  1800yachtcharters
LinkedIn:  Jana Sheeder

Creators of the phrase and concept, The Superyacht Experience™

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Homecoming Picnic Yacht and SailAway Discount

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Profile photograph of motoryacht LADY J. Yacht is underway. she is facing the right side of the photo.

Lady J Superyacht

TEAMWORK BRINGS GIFTS

The owner of a 142 foot megayacht and America’s premier yacht charter company have teamed up to bring you a sizzling Caribbean yacht charter winter special.

REBATE TIME

Motoryacht LADY J, in cooperation with SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants and 1-800 Yacht Charters, are offering a $10,000 instant rebate to the next three charter customers to confirm a 7-night or longer booking in the Caribbean in January, February or March, 2012.

 

EVEN MORE BENEFITS

In addition, SailAway will pay for a “Homecoming Picnic for you and your family and friends upon your return home after your luxury yacht charter vacation (up to $1000 in food and drinks).

“We understand the importance of finding the best values when planning a vacation,” says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters.  “The manager of motoryacht LADY J approached us with a courtesy discount of $5,000 for our customers.  We decided to match that offer with an additional $5,000 instant rebate.”

“In addition, we wanted the great feelings that come with a yachting vacation to last a little longer.  Our marketing department came up with the idea of a picnic for family-and-friends when the clients return home.”

“It’s a great way to share photos and stories about a wonderful vacation with your neighbors and friends.”

 

ABOUT LADY J

Motoryacht LADY J is a 142’ luxury yacht.  She is currently in the shipyard undergoing improvements and will arrive in Antigua by December 1st.   The yacht features accommodations for 10 to 12 guests in 5 staterooms and operates under the capable leadership of Captain Sandra Yawn. 

 

ACCOMMODATIONS

The full beam Master Stateroom is located forward on deck, with private office, sofa and vanity. En-suite facilities include Jacuzzi tub for her, and separate stall shower for him, with two sinks and private bathroom.

 

DINING OPTIONS

Guests may choose from several options for each meal, whether seeking al fresco or air-conditioned dining between the aft deck, bridge deck, and formal dining salon.

 

THE SUNDECK

The magnificent sun deck boasts Jacuzzi with oversized sun pads, 2 elliptical trainers, full wet bar and TV.

Photograph of the sundeck of superyacht Lady J. It has a hot tub that is surrounded by caramel-colored sunpads.

Lady J Sundeck Jacuzzi

WATERTOYS

Activities abound with a 25’ towed Pursuit tender, 2 waverunners, snorkeling gear, 2 elliptical trainers, kayaks, paddle boards, fishing gear, and Wii and Xbox 360 game consoles.

 

RATE

Motor yacht LADY J is priced at $120,000 per week, plus running expenses, and is currently available for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  The instant rebate of $10,000 shall be deducted from the charter rate and a $1000 gift voucher for the Homecoming Picnic will be mailed to customers upon their return home.

 

BOOKINGS

Current Bookings:
Nov 23-28: Nassau, Bahamas
Dec 4-10: Antigua, Caribbean
Available for Christmas and New years (10-night minimum)
Jan 22-27: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Feb 23-Mar 1: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
Mar 23-Apr 1: Virgin Islands, Caribbean
June 3-10: Nassau, Bahamas
June 21-28: Maine, East Coast USA

Lady J is also available to charter in New England, summer 2012.

 

 

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER

For additional information on this special offer, please contact the 1-800 Yacht Charters booking department at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ or 305-253-7245.

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London Olympics Yacht Charter Berths

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London Olympics photograph. Picture shows olympic rings over the top of the photo, with London Bridge in the background. The harbor is full of boats, both large and small.

 

LONDON OLYMPICS DOCKAGE AVAILABLE

SailAway is pleased to announce additional superyacht dockage in London.  They are available at ExCel London for the London Olympics.  These are in addition to those at The Marina at the London Docklands,  ExCel is one of the 2012 Olympic Games venues.  These berths are beside the ExCel Centre at London’s Royal Docks. Charter guests there have a convenient base for the duration of the Olympic Games.

We were thrilled in February to announce the availability of dockage at The Docklands,”  says Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants, as well as 1-800 Yacht Charters.  “Now we can offer additional accommodations, specifically to largest yachts, at the Royal Docks.  We understand the adjacent ExCel Centre will host a variety of Olympic events. Those events include Boxing, Wrestling, Fencing, Taekwondo, and Table Tennis.

 

London Olympics Dockage Setup

Infrastructure is in place to provide an on-site berth manager.  The setup also includes restricted public access, a dedicated parking lot for automobiles, and concierge services.

Sheeder expects heavy demand for these prime berths. She encourages yacht owners to reserve their berths right away.

In addition to Her Majesty’s Jubilee Flotilla in June, I can’t imagine a more exciting time to bring a superyacht to London!” 

 

HOW TO BOOK YOUR OLYMPICS YACHT CHARTER

Join us in the UK  for a London Olympics Yacht Charter next summer.  Contact our destination experts  at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ TODAY.

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Low Demand Keeps Luxury Yacht Charter Rates Under Pressure

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Photograph of the marina in St. Barths in the Caribbean. Basin is full of sailboats and powerboats of all sizes and colors. Mountains surround the marina on 3 sides

CLIENT COMMENTS

Yesterday, a client texted us from his 170 foot Feadship yacht charter vessel. “@anchor next 2  yacht Eclipse n Rising Sun…no 1 else here!” 

Normally, with less than a week before New Year’s Eve, the quay at Port du Gustavia is already packed with yachts, stern-to and packed like sardines, side-by-side.  The annual St Barts yacht charter scene is the place to be, as A-list celebrities and corporate CEO’s spend the week yacht-hopping and partying. 

Photograph of Gwen Stafani and Gavin Rossdale relaxing on a yacht. The photo does not include any background details. It's just a photo of the two of them on a white boat, seated on plush white seating. Gwen has her right arm propped above her head and is wearing a sun visor. Gavin is wearing a cap on his entire head. Both are in dark sunglasses

NO TRAFFIC

So far this week, the big names – and big boats – have not arrived.

A recent yachting industry report ads credence to the first-hand observations in St Barts.  The annual Superyachting Index analyses the global luxury yacht industry. The Index has three sections (new construction, brokerage, and charter) and covers yachts 80 feet and larger.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

According to industry maven, Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charter Consultants and 1-800 Yacht Charters,

“A lack of demand continues to put downward pressure on charter rates. A weak global economy coupled with a significant increase in the number of available yachts for hire means more yachts are competing for charter business.  Add to this a host of other heavily-discounted vacation options, such as upscale villa and resort ski packages, and the number of clients electing to go boating has dwindled to 2006 recession levels.”  

 

INDUSTRY SIZE

The Index supports Sheeder’s assertions.  The size of the yacht charter industry grew more than 23 percent in 2010. As of 2009, there were about 850 yachts available for charter. In 2010, the number of yachts available rose to 1,049.

This trend is especially evident in the category of yachts from 30 to 50 meters (about 100 to 165 feet). There was a 28 per cent increase in the number of these yachts on the charter market in 2010. Consequently, the same market segment saw a reduction of 10.7 per cent in weekly base rates.

 

YACHT SALES

In addition, the overall number of charter weeks sold worldwide in 2010 decreased by 9 percent from those of 2009. That means that in addition to increased competition, there were fewer clients booking.

All luxury travel companies are looking forward to a healthier economy.

 

HOW TO RENT A YACHT

For further information about the global megayacht market, contact 1-800 Yacht Charters President Jana Sheeder.  Email her directly at jsheeder@1800yachtcharters.com. Feel free to use our contact form at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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