When your clients are accustomed to +70 meter superyachts for their private luxury yacht charter vacations, you should probably think twice about recommending a 40 meter yacht for their next getaway…
MOTORYACHT ‘H
Unless that 40 meter vessel is motor yacht ‘H with Captain Phil Frost at the helm.
BEYONCE AND JAY-Z
About three weeks ago, good friends of ours called. They were taking a short trip from their home in the states to visit their daughter who is spending a college semester in France. During the visit, they planned to catch the “On The Run II: Beyonce & Jay-Z” concert in Paris, then spend a few days exploring. They asked, “Since we’re not taking the whole family, is there a smaller, contemporary-designed yacht that you would recommend for a quick getaway in France?” Without hesitation, we said, “Yes, the best available option is the 42 meter Benetti motoryacht ‘H.”
WHO IS SUPERYACHT ‘H?
Built in 2015, motor yacht ‘H is a shining example of the Italian builder’s Fast 140 series, with exterior styling by Stefano Righini, and interiors by HJH Studios. The yacht has it all – a massive sundeck, an impressive skylounge, and a fantastic, young, energetic crew led by can-do skipper, Australian Phil Frost. Phil’s motto is, “Say yes, then figure out how to make it happen!”
GUEST RESPONSES
With just hours to prepare, Phil and his team provisioned and prepared for our clients’ arrival in Bonifacio. Less than 2 hours after getting onboard, our clients sent us two, short, but telling texts. First, the husband wrote, “Having the best time.” Then, his wife wrote, “Oh man, this crew is awesome!”
CLIENTS CALL US
Once back home, the family called us to say the yacht was beautiful and surprisingly comfortable for a 40 meter yacht, and the crew made everyone feel as if they were onboard a 70 meter vessel.
They were so impressed, plans are already underway for a repeat trip in September…
WOULD YOU RATHER…
If you’re considering a private yacht charter vacation in the Med in August or September (or the Caribbean this winter), it’s hard to overstate the value, luxury, and comfort you’ll find with Captain Phil Frost, onboard Benetti motor yacht ‘H…
KISMET
[Side note – Beyonce and Jay-Z decided to do a little boating after the concert as well. They loaded the family onboard motor yacht KISMET (video) before returning to the next leg of their world tour…]
HOW TO BOOK A YACHT
Are you considering chartering a yacht for a vacation or special event? Call or text us at 305-720-7245, and with our Best Price Guarantee in hand, you’ll be on your way to making memories in style! Let us know that you are interested in chartering, and we’re on it!
On the heels of securing a prized Monaco Grand Prix yacht charter for late May, the owner of the 43 meter motor yacht HANA hopes to race into summer with soliddiscount for June bookings.
Effective immediately, CRN yacht HANA has lowered her low season rate from €135,000 per week to €115,000 per week for all Western Mediterranean yacht charter vacations.
YACHT SPECIFICATIONS
Superyacht HANA is 43 meters (139 feet 9 inches). Built in 2008 by CRN. 11 Guests in 5 Cabins, all served by 9 professional crewmembers.
Motoryacht HANA is a highly spacious yacht which makes her the perfect yacht for special event yacht charters as well as private family vacations.With a light and modern interior designed by Claude Missir, she boasts a full-beam Owner’s Cabin on the main deck, featuring an Owner’s Study and private balcony.
She also offers three double and one twin staterooms. Additionally, all have ensuite baths. The yacht has 2 spacious salons and more. For instance, a dining room, and a large gym.
Her huge sundeck is equipped with a plasma screen TV, Jacuzzi tub, sun lounges, bar, and barbecue.
Current Bookings: 22 – 27 May 2013 – Monaco Grand Prix
COVID 19 update from 1-800 Yacht Charters. In specific, Italian tax authorities have postponed new laws designed to increase VAT on Italian yacht charter vacations. The postponement appears to be in response to the effect of Covid-19 on tourism.
Fortunately, private yacht charter vacations remain exempt from the tax increase until November. Accordingly, 1-800 Yacht Charters will continue to Deliver the Superyacht Experience™ to their clients at a lower-than-expected tax rate.
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN
Tax increases were first announced in December 2019. The conversion of Law Decree n. 124/2019 (by Law n.157/2019) and the 2020 Italian Budget Law (Law n. 160/2019) enact new value-added tax (VAT) measures. The law set the VAT rate at 22% for Italian luxury yacht charter vacations. That law is postponed until November 1, 2020. The old rates will remain in place. VAT is set at 6.6% for yachts over 24 meters. VAT is set at 8.8% for yachts under 24 meters.
IN SUMMARY
In other words, private yacht charter vessels and crews can still welcome-aboard guests in Italy at a favorable VAT rate below 10%. The Superyacht Experience™ will continue this summer. Tourism in Italy suffers from Covid-19 shortfalls. Italian authorities are hopeful favorable VAT rates will stimulate tourism. New (higher) VAT regulations will be in effect after November 1st, 2020.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Italian VAT applies to all charters embarking in Italy. Special limitations apply to yachts registered in Italy. Government fiscal agents require an appropriate amount of cruising to qualify for the reduced VAT. For example, at least one crossing from Corsica or Sardinia to mainland France or Italy qualify for the reduced rate.
Italian-flagged yachts are not subject to this limitation. Specifically, no long-distance crossing requirements exist.
COVID-19 PROTOCOLS
In conclusion, certain Covid-19 protocols remain in place. Requirements include masks in public areas. In addition, no Covid-19 test requirement exists, although quarantine requirements may exist for some origins. For example, public transportation is operating, and restaurants are open.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Our team stays on top of all Covid-19 updated information. For instance, we provide a list of available yachts and “summer saver discounts.” Call our team at 1-800 Yacht Charters at 305-720-7245 for immediate response.
Important to note, travelers from the USA face possible travel restrictions to Italy. Don’t let this stop you. You can still enjoy The Superyacht Experience™. Stay safe, and remain closer to home this summer. We’d love to plan a yacht charter vacation for you like this one!
Summer is near, and once again luxury yacht charter motor yacht COCA VI is teaming up with1-800 Yacht Chartersto give away afree Louis Vuitton travel bag to each client booking a 1 week or longer charter.
The promotion was incredibly well-received last summer. The Arno Leopard motor yacht’s owner and 1-800 Yacht Charters have again teamed up to repeat the offer.
There are many yachts available for charter in the South of France. COCA VI dominates the market with multiple features. For instance, her modern and fresh interior. In addition, her high-tech features and stellar reputation in the Western Mediterranean yacht charter industry. Her sexy shape along with her high cruising speed is the perfect pairing for those who want to enjoy the Côte d’Azur in style.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Leopard yacht COCA VI accommodates up to 6 guests. She offers 3 staterooms on the lower deck. The master stateroom features a king-sized bed. Her VIP has a queen. The twin cabin features two single beds. Each stateroom has ensuite facilities.
A FAVORITE PART OF THE YACHT
The sundeck is a part of the yacht that clients love for her features. For example, the wet bar, an amazing sound system, lounge areas, sun pads, and a hot spa pool. Just about everything you need to enjoy the South of France lifestyle! See and Be Seen this summer aboard sexy and gorgeous luxury yacht COCA VI.
RATE
M/Y Motoryacht COCA VI is based in Antibes, France, year-round. As of this writing, her weekly rate is 35,000 euros, plus running expenses.
Every summer, hundreds of well-heeled travelers migrate to the Western Mediterranean. They travel there to enjoy a private yacht luxury charter vacation. Coastal towns like Nice and St Tropez in France participate. San Remo and Portofino in Italy also host dozens of superyachts. The boats bring charterers from around the world. It is an affluent vacation. Even the wealthy cringe. Specifically when their exclusive yacht rental holiday receives VAT charges often in excess of 12%. They know the value of their hard-earned dollars. We make sure that their memorable and valuable vacation funds are spent wisely.
HIGH TAXES
Imagine spending €725,000/wk to rent a yacht. For example, Admiral superyacht PLANET NINE as your holiday hire. Just envision incurring an additional €87,000 in VAT? Ouch!!!
THE SOLUTION TO LOWERING TAXES
Over the years, we composed many blogs about the challenges of VAT taxes. Yacht rental guests need to stay aware of the laws. In some years, yacht charters were VAT exempt. In others, the exemption was rescinded. The rates go up, down, and often vary among various European Union countries, like France, Spain, and Italy.
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Fortunately, with a little advance planning, it might be possible to reduce your charter’s VAT liability by up to 50%. Jana Sheeder, our company’s President explains:
“If you rent a luxury yacht for a vacation in the South of France, say, Nice, Antibes, Cannes, and neighboring Monte Carlo (in the principality of Monaco), you will incur a VAT charge of 12%. However, if leave European Union waters during your charter, the VAT is reduced by 50%. The easiest way to accomplish this is to schedule an overnight run to the island of Sardinia, off the French coast. Spend a day of so in the area, then cruise back to the South of France. Not only is this a worthwhile itinerary, you’ll also enjoy a tremendous discount in your VAT expenses.”
MAKING IT LEGAL
To accomplish this, and to be in full, legal compliance with the European Union statutes, Jana adds a clause. In specific, to the client’s yacht charter agreement that reads, in part,
“It is agreed between the parties that the yacht will cruise in international waters for part of the itinerary, which has not been determined, so VAT will only be charged on the 50% of the charter fee. In the event the yacht does not cruise in international waters and VAT becomes due on the total amount of the charter fee, the charterer hereby agrees to pay the outstanding VAT on the total amount of the charter fee in cleared funds and without delay to the stakeholder. VAT is calculated with a lump sum reduction of the time spent in EU waters in application of BOI-TVA-CHAMP-20-50-20-20120912 Article 90.”
SAVE MONEY ON FRANCE AND ITALY CHARTERS
In addition to reducing VAT expenses in France, it’s also possible to find similar savings in other Western Mediterranean destinations. Similar money-saving strategies apply for charter yacht luxury vacations in Italy as well.
1-800 YACHT CHARTER STRATEGY
For example, if a charterer wants to start and end a 10 night trip in Naples, Jana will encourage the client to end the charter in Sardinia, to the west, or Sicily to the south, in order to cruise through international waters, and qualify for a reduced VAT fee.
CONTACT US FOR BEST PRICE GUARANTEE
In conclusion, with just a little advance planning, it’s possible to save thousands of dollars on your next luxury rental yacht vacation!
Luxury yacht charter vessel motoryacht HANA makes an offer. She has a special rate from now through the end of June 2016. This applies to yacht charter FRANCE vacations. Her deal for the remainder of June is €120,000 per week. Her rate WAS €135,000. Specifically, that’s a savings of €15,000.
Motor yacht HANA is a 43 meter CRN displacement yacht that can accommodate 10 guests in 5 cabins. She carries 9 crew members and navigates at a maximum speed of 15.5 knots and a cruising speed of 13 knots.
She has four decks and extensive open-air zones, such as the covered areas of the main deck and the upper deck, and she’s a true beauty.
Another distinctive characteristic of HANA’s is the terrace at the owner’s suite, designed as a balcony large enough to hold a table and chairs for breakfast looking out on the ocean.
If you’d like to take advantage of motoryacht HANA’s June special in the Med, please contact us IMMEDIATELY by phone at 1-800-922-4824) or +1-305-720-7245, or use our convenient 24-hour online contact form here.
It’s hard to find a consensus among charterers. For some, it’s all about the destination. Others appreciate the chance to reconnect with family and friends.
Yet almost all returning yacht charter clients comment about the Michelin menus and the jaw-dropping talents of their yacht’s onboard chef.
Great meals, dazzling presentations, and the infusion of local ingredients and cultural components. These are trademarks of the superyacht chefs in the yacht-for-hire industry.
SUPERYACHT EXPERIENCE
A great chef can elevate a charter from a “vacation on a boat,” to a true “Superyacht Experience.”
INTERVIEW WITH A YACHT CHEF
Our associate Nicolas Fry sat down with Gionata Rossi, Executive Chef onboard the 72 meter Tankoa yacht SOLO. This vessel is one of our newest rental luxury yachts. She can accommodate up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms. Her cruising grounds include France, Italy, and the Western Mediterranean.
We share more information about super yacht SOLO at the bottom of this blog. Here is Nicolas’ interview with Chef Rossi. Foodies enjoy!
THE CHEF – Gionata Rossi
Chef Gionata Rossi
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
1. Why did you decide to become a chef and to work as a yacht chef?
“Cooking has always been my passion. I started at a very early age. Earned my master at the hotel school in Massa and started working immediately. A Chef for 25 years and I have worked in some of the best restaurants in the world. I have received a Michelin star at casa del nonno 13 and have been reviewed in the best gourmet guides. Joined yachting because it combines my primary passions: cooking and travelling”.
2. What is your favorite cuisine and can you prepare different styles of cooking?
“I cook different styles but the contemporary one based on traditional cuisine is what I consider the most interesting. As a Chef on a superyacht charter vessel I believe that the cuisine served is not only a show but a nutritional experience as well. My passion for food varies from creating the perfect roast dinner to a 7-course degustation where I can display a whole range of different cooking techniques and products. My main talent is Italian and French cuisine whilst still offering Asian and Japanese menus.”
3. Is there a chef you admire above all others and why?
“If I have to mention only one, then it is Raffaele Vitale, an important Italian chef, as I had definitely the best experience working with him. I have many friends but the research of taste and knowledge of raw materials with Raffaele were essential for me. Which nationalities tend to be the best charter guests? Gionata: I am lucky, I have always had good relationships with guests from many different nationalities. Having said that, I have worked a lot with Russian yacht charter guests and they generally love my food.”
The Interview Continues
4. Which is your favorite destination and why?
“Greece and Turkey are always in my heart for the quality of fruit and vegetables you can find on the markets”
5. How are trends driving guest expectations and how do you stay up to date?
“In my kitchen and galley I take pride that everything is made from scratch with fresh products. Stocks, sauces & dressings are always made on board, ice creams are churned to order, pastas and gnocchi rolled fresh, fresh bread baked daily and our meats and seafood are always fresh. I also specialize in vegan, vegetarian and low-calorie diets”.
6. What trends are you noticing in wine and food pairings?
“I drink only biodynamic wines and I think that this trend is on the increase therefore also the combination must go in that direction even if I consider fundamental to combine food and wine. By the way, my favorite wine is the Pinot Nero!”
The Interview Concludes
7. Can you share with us a spring menu you would prepare for affluent charter yacht guests?
“Marinated spring onion and tomato with lime sorbet, cold tomato soup with fresh spaghetto garlic oil and chilli, cold english cream with berries and apple crumble.”
8. When are you happiest at work?
“Cooking demonstrations with the guests either at the table or in the kitchen! This is a special touch I like to offer to luxury yacht rental guests. I wish to share my passion for food with my clients and create an amazing atmosphere for their dining experience. When I can establish a good relationship with the guests, the rest is easy.”
9. BONUS: What are the strengths that make you a great superyacht chef?
“In order to offer a great superyacht experience, a huge amount of organization needs to be in place. My organizational skills allow me to present food the way that it is intended. I am also up to date with all the latest cooking techniques, methods & equipment so that as a private chef I can still rival the best and most fancy restaurants.”
THE COMBINATION CONTINUES
THE YACHT – Tankoa motor yacht SOLO
Regular readers remember our blog about three Jaw-Dropping New Yachts at the 2016 Monaco Yacht Show. We highlight 228 foot motor yacht SUERTE, built by Tankoa Yachts in that blog post. Two years later, Tankoa Yachts unveiled Suerte’s, “Big sister,” the 236 foot SOLO. Our inspection of this beautiful lady left us in awe.
Our associate, Nicolas Fry, has spent numerous hours onboard the yacht. Here is his overview:
“SOLO is the perfect combination of performance and luxury designed by Francesco Paszkowski and built by Tankoa. Her contemporary interior, designed by Margherita Casprini, will sleep up to 12 guests in six well-appointed staterooms. The master suite features an independent office, a king size bed with panoramic views, a private terrace with a Jacuzzi and lounge beds offering complete privacy.
He continues…
Guests can be accommodated in a large VIP, two double and two convertible twin staterooms. SOLO features impressive living spaces, with a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor areas. Guests will love the vast beach club with for example, a lounge/bar area, a hammam, a sauna with its own fold-out terrace and a chilled water shower. This wellness center is complete with the gym & massage room equipped with the latest Technogym equipment and its private terrace on the sea. On the main deck, the 7m infinity pool is another great area to spend time with your guests. The sky lounge aft feature a Jacuzzi. In addition, a touch-and-go Helipad that be converted into a dance floor (is there, as well).
Finally
The sundeck offers never ending views from its sun loungers. SOLO also offers several options for entertaining and dining including all-weather alfresco table on the upper deck aft, the main salon or upper deck salon.
THE ULTIMATE COMBINATION:
Tankoa M/Y SOLO + Chef Gionata Rossi = THE SUPERYACHT EXPERIENCE!!!
Is your favorite team playing in Nice or Marseilles in this month’s Euro 2016?
If you answered, “Yes,” you need to rent a France private luxury yacht charter vessel and experience the event in style!
UEFA EURO 2016 IN FRANCE
This year, the UEFA Euro 2016 returns to France with 24 teams playing 51 games in 10 stadiums, including the coastal towns of Nice and Marseille. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine the excitement of championship futbol with a memorable superyacht experience.
WHY STAY IN A HOTEL?
Why stay in a busy hotel and wait in line at crowded restaurants and clubs, when you can retreat to the privacy of your own luxury yacht?
Close your eyes and picture this. Your private chef will prepare all your meals – and even make some gourmet snacks to take to the matches. After your team wins on the pitch, you, your family, friends and business associates can return to your yacht to unwind and celebrate.
Doesn’t that sound like a great way to enjoy UEFA Euro 2016?
WHY NOT RENT A PRIVATE YACHT?
On the days your team is not in action, you can go for a cruise, enjoy the sunshine, and use your yacht’s watertoys and the onboard amenities. Soak in the hot tub…burn some calories in the gym…or catch match highlights on the giant screen in the yacht’s cinema room while being served cocktails by your private luxury yacht charter staff.
It’s all about comfort, privacy, and maximizing your Euro 2016 experience…
ONLY A HANDFUL OF YACHTS REMAIN
A handful of yachts remain available, and are in position in Marseilles, as well as Nice and nearby Cannes and Monaco.
WHICH YACHTS ARE STILL AVAILABLE?
Available yachts include Motoryacht FORCE BLUE with accommodations for 12 overnight guests, and deck space for over 350 for corporate entertainment. For more intimate gatherings, there are yachts suitable for 4 to 8 guests…
WHICH TEAMS ARE PLAYING IN UEFA EURO 2016?
There are multiple teams for the UEFA EURO 2016. Specifically, France, Romania, Albania, Switzerland, and Wales. Additionally, Slovakia, England, Russia , Natsionálnaya sbórnaya Rossii po futbólu, and Turkey. Further, Croatia, Poland, Northern Ireland, Ukraine, Spain, and Czech Republic. Then Republic of Ireland, Sweden Sveriges herrlandslag i fotboll, Belgium, Italy Nazionale di calcio dell’Italia, and Austria. Lastly, Hungary, Portugal Seleção Portuguesa de Futebol, and Iceland Íslenska karlalandsliðið í knattspyrnu.
GO AFTER YOUR GOALS
For more information, contact 1-800 Yacht Charters TODAY.
Mobile / 24 hour hotline: +1.305.720.7245 (720-SAIL)
Toll-free in N. America: +1.800.922.4824 (800-YACHTCHARTERS)
Today’s blog involves the end of the France VAT exemption. Back in February, we speculated the cost to rent a private yacht in the fabled south of France was about to go up, due to a ruling by the European Union the VAT exemption on chartering yachts in France was not compliant with EU VAT rules. Now, France’s efforts to seek a VAT exemption have failed, as the European Court of Justice has ruled the French tax exemption for commercial vessels is illegal.
WHAT DOES THE RULING MEAN?
With the majority of Mediterranean yacht charter vessels in France registered as commercial vessels, the VAT exemption these yachts have enjoyed for years will end. Luxury yacht charter customers will now find the yachts they rent subject to VAT, and this expense will almost certainly be passed on by the yacht owners to the charterers.
THE ACTUAL RULING
On March 21, the European Court of Justice (in European Commission v. France; C-197/12) had a belief. It held that French legislation providing a VAT exemption for some commercial vessels used for navigation on the high seas. Specifically that carry passengers for remuneration or are used for commercial activities. “…does not comply with Directive 2006/112/EC (the VAT directive), specifically with article 148(a), (c), and (d).
IT CONTINUES
“ The approach of the summer charter season is at hand. Yacht managers and owners are scrambling. In specific, to make sure all paperwork is in compliance with the ECJ’s ruling.”
You are planning a private luxury yacht charter at the Cannes Film Festival in the South of France (pronounced CAN…..not con). You want to pronounce all champagnes correctly. Especially when working with your onboard superyacht Sommelier. Thanks to our friends at Glass of Bubbly, we share this helpful and informative blog post. In specific, about the correct pronunciation of champagne names.
4-24-18 – UPDATED — Taittinger Champagne has been added to the list, since it is phenomenally popular.
<< Are You Pronouncing These Champagne Names Correctly?
By Glass of Bubbly
When Champagne gets transported into another country, it’s normal that the pronunciation is adapted to suit the language. However, if you’re curious how to pronounce Champagne names comme il faut (translated = properly), you’re in the right place.
Even if you’re quite confident with French, the names can sometimes be tricky as many originate from other countries such as Germany.
PRONUNCIATIONS
Tip: “on” and “om” sounds are usually nasal sounds in French, such as in Dom Pérignon.
Dom Pérignon–Dom Peh-ree-nyon (“g” isn’t pronounced)
Veuve Clicquot – Verv Kli-KOH (not voov)
Deutz – dirts (French pronunciation with a soft “r”)
Ruinart – Rwee-nar (not ruin-art)
Piper-Heidsieck – Pee-pay ED-sick
Mumm – Moom / Mewm (with a long “u” — 000 — sound)
The one that probably causes the most trip-ups is Moët et Chandon, which is pronouncedmoh-et eh chan-dawn – and not the commonly-said moh-way… oops.
Finally, you now confidently order a fancy bottle of Champagne on your next holiday to France. >>
In conclusion, remember. The city of Cannes, France is simply pronounced “can” (not “con”). The Cannes Film Festival is pronounced CAN (like “an aluminum can,” not cAHn.)
The next step? Contact 1-800 Yacht Charters at 305-720-7245 or by filling out our convenient online contact form at https://1800yachtcharters.com/book-now/, and start planning your yacht charter vacation today!
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