Category Archives: Yachting news

Yachting Industry News

Boatbookings Commitment to Empower a Greener Yacht Charter Industry

While the world of yacht charters provides luxurious platforms for adventure and once-in-a-lifetime vacations, the industry also understands the growing recognition that our actions profoundly impact the environment. At Boatbookings, we have embraced this responsibility and are leading the charge towards a more sustainable future for the yacht charter industry. 

As a leading marketplace for yacht charters, we understand that our role extends beyond simply facilitating bookings. We advocate for a greener charter industry and champion marine conservation and responsible tourism. 

This ethos is at the core; here are some of the ways we are showing our commitment to improving the yacht charter industry: 

Spreading Awareness 

We believe that education and advocacy are crucial in driving meaningful change. Through our engagement with industry associations like MYBA, we are helping actively shape the conversation around sustainability. We share best practices and empower clients and yachts to join. Our consultants explain the importance of greener decisions regarding chartering and encouraging more sustainable preference choices, such as refusing single-use plastic and offsetting carbon emissions. We also continually educate the industry by sharing the knowledge we gather on sustainability through this blog. 

Embracing Carbon Offsetting 

We recognise that carbon emissions are an unavoidable aspect of many yacht charters. Alternative propulsion and fuels are slowly coming to the fore, a huge proportion of the fleet still has combustion engines. Our carbon offsetting program, the first of its kind within the industry, allows our clients to calculate their charters’ carbon footprint and purchase credits to offset the impact. This helps clients take an active role in preserving our oceans. 

Staying Ahead 

The yacht charter industry is ever-evolving. We constantly monitor emerging green technologies, regulatory changes, and innovative yacht launches. This ensures we remain at the forefront of the sustainability movement. By staying ahead of the curve, we can offer our clients the most up-to-date and eco-conscious options. 

Offer Better Options

Because we stay ahead and are committed to improving the industry’s green credentials, we constantly expand our eco-friendly yacht fleet and our greener crewed catamaran charters. We want to ensure clients have the broadest range of eco-conscious yachts to choose for their vacation. Our team can also help clients, boats, and crews navigate better preferences for the yacht charter through preference sheets. We encourage these evolving needs of more environmentally conscious charterers and aim to help facilitate these onboard every boat. 

In the quest for a greener future for the yacht charter industry, we embrace our responsibility and take steps to reduce our impact. For more information on the range of greener crewed catamarans on offer or other sustainability initiatives, contact one of the Boatbookings team today. 

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A Boatbookings Insight to the MYBA Charter Show in Genoa

The prestigious MYBA Charter Show, one of the yacht charter industry’s leading events, will return to Genoa, Italy, from April 22 to 25. Hosted at the iconic Marina Molo Vecchio, this 34th edition promises to celebrate the latest advancements and innovations in yachting. 

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the show’s return to Genoa after a five-year stint in Barcelona is a significant milestone. Building upon the successful implementation of various green initiatives last year, the 2024 edition is poised to solidify MYBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability further.  

With an impressive lineup of approximately 400 exhibitors, 500 brokers, 60 yachts over 30-meters, and 300 crew, the show offers a platform for yacht charter professionals, brokers, managers, and owners to connect, collaborate, and explore the industry’s developments. This year, the show will also continue its much-loved Chefs Competition, where superyacht chefs will showcase their talents to an Italian fusion dinner party theme. 

Showing up for Sustainability 

One of the oldest and most respected events in the yachting calendar, the MYBA Charter Show has embraced sustainability as a core value. Last year’s edition implemented various eco-friendly practices. These included the use of recycled materials for promotional material and an effort to reduce energy consumption. This year’s show promises to build upon these initiatives. 

A Spotlight on the Yachts

A highlight of the year is the impressive lineup of charter yachts. Each year, we see a rise in the number of greener crewed charter yachts on the market, thanks to advancements in green technology. 

Among the yachts at this year’s show is the newly launched Otoctone. The Sunreef 80 catamaran is part of the Eco series. Boatbookings is proud to showcase this remarkable yacht. It is fitted with Sunreef’s solar power system, featuring solar panels integrated into the composite structure. Otoctone is a testament to the industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. 

When under sail, the yacht also boasts an advanced hydrogeneration system, allowing for the continuous production of green energy. Capable of accommodating up to 9 guests, Otoctone is the perfect choice for a Mediterranean charter this summer. Following its appearance at the MYBA Charter Show, the yacht will be available for charters in Sardinia and Corsica. It will also be available for the iconic America’s Cup in Barcelona. 

Boatbookings at the Show 

Our charter experts will be at the show, ensuring we have the most up-to-date information about the best charter yachts on the market. Getting to know the yachts in detail is critical to our service, so we choose the best yacht for you. Contact one of the team to learn more about a crewed charter catamaran vacation for 2024. 

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How to Have a Greener Family-Friendly Yacht Charter in the Mediterranean this Summer 

A yacht charter offers the perfect opportunity for an unforgettable, family-friendly vacation this summer. At Boatbookings, we understand the importance of quality time together while instilling eco-values from an early age. That’s why our fleet of greener crewed charter catamarans is family-friendly. 

Our child-friendly yachts check every box, from enhanced safety features and ample play space to overflowing toy boxes and chefs catering to all ages. We also go a step further by offering engaging eco-activities and more sustainable practices that will inspire the next generation. 

Here, we have put together some of the ways you can have a greener family-friendly charter in the Mediterranean: 

Marine Life Education 

While onboard in the Mediterranean this summer, there are plenty of activities to get your children excited about marine life and preserving it. You can start this process by using mobile apps to identify tropical fish, dolphins, turtles, and other creatures you encounter. The crew onboard a crewed charter catamaran can also teach children about marine habitats and how to be responsible visitors to the ocean, following the “no trace” principles. There are lots of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) throughout the region, from Greece and Croatia to the French Riviera and the Italian islands, where you can adhere to the strcit rules and regulations working to protect the habitats.

Beach Clean Ups 

Participating in a beach clean-up during your boat charter is a rewarding experience, perfect for all ages. Collecting litter and debris allows families to directly contribute to protecting the surrounding ecosystems. Initiatives such as these can help families feel empowered knowing they have been part of the solution to protecting our oceans and coastlines. 

Eco-Friendly Water Fun 

Children and adults alike on a crewed charter love the toy box. There are a whole host of greener toys you can play on, contributing to more eco-friendly boating and steering clear of the fuel-guzzling water toys and opting for the greener versions, such as the electric-powered toys or even the human-powered ones such as paddleboarding and kayaking while onboard. While ashore, the crew can also arrange responsible activities contributing to the local economy and supporting environmental and conservation initiatives. 

Better Boating Practices 

Our selection of greener crewed catamarans offers a greener charter experience for you and your family. These boats are a great platform to explain the best practices. The crew can educate everyone about the renewable energy sources being used, such as hybrid electric motors and solar panels. Onboard, you can get invovled in the responsible waste management programs and using the eco-friendly products. 

Book Today! 

If you are interested in a family-friendly boat charter, contact one of the Boatbookings team members to discuss this further. We have a range of greener crewed catamarans with still some available for this summer’s Mediterranean season. Get in touch today! 

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Responsible Boaters: Mediterranean Destinations that Champion Sustainability

The Mediterranean remains one of our favorite boating destinations. However, this cruising area is suffering as the world faces mounting pressures from over-tourism and environmental impacts. With the summer season fast approaching, boaters can enjoy more sustainable yachting adventures across the Mediterranean. 

Boatbookings Prioritizing Sustainability 

At Boatbookings, we always advocate for more responsible boating. Firstly, we offer a range of greener crewed catamarans, which have less impact on our seas. When organizing a boat charter in the Mediterranean, we focus on facilitating more sustainable practices onboard through your preference sheet, such as requesting local and seasonal produce and reducing the amount of single-use plastics. 

The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s best Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), teeming with vibrant marine life that we love to snorkel and dive. While boating in these areas, there are a range of procedures you can follow to not disrupt the ecosystems. Meanwhile, on land, when you are visiting these destinations, we encourage engaging with the local communities when purchasing and getting involved in responsible activities. 

We have put together a list of the top 5 Mediterranean destinations that champion sustianability: 

1. French Riviera 

The French Riviera is a premier cruising destination, and for good reason. From St Tropez to Monaco, the region is full of glamourous destinations, idyllic bays, and prestigious events. However, due to its popularity, there has been some negative impact of yachting. Today, the anchoring of yachts along the French Riviera is strictly regulated to protect the Posidonia seagrass. The French maritime authorities PREMAR have implemented increased anchoring rules in these areas to protect the ecosystem. 

In addition to anchoring regulations, all of the ports along the French Riviera have implemented stringent policies to keep the marina waters clean. You can no longer wash boat oils, wastewaters, and other pollutants into the sea. As an example, Cannes has implemented the following requirements on all ships in the Cannes waters:

  • The use of fuel with 0.1% sulfur content
  • A ban on incinerating waste on board upon entering the compulsory ‘piloting area’
  • The establishment of a tendering process that takes into account the environment
  • A ban on discharging wastewater, even treated wastewater, and water from fume washing systems in the piloting and mooring areas;
  • The obligation to bypass the ‘Posidonia meadows’ during maneuvers and anchoring;
  • the promotion of sustainability initiatives among operators carrying cruise passengers.

2. The Ionian Islands

For island-hopping itineraries, Greece is a perfect destination. The Ionian Islands lie off the country’s west coast in the Ionian Sea. An initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and environment conservation throughout the islands is the Ionian Environment Foundation. Focussing on this area, the program distributes sustainable sailing packs showcasing how boaters can avoid negative impacts when sailing these islands. 

3. Mallorca

The Save the Med Foundation, based in Mallorca, enables the Balearic Sea to recover its rich biodiversity. Through marine conservation, research, educational outreach, and advocating for new MPAs, this organization showcases these islands as a hub for innovative initiatives to inspire other regions. One particular priority for Save the Med is tackling plastic pollution. 

4. Sicily 

A prominent issue within marine conservation is the problem of discarded fishing nets. The Italian island of Sicily is working to combat this while protecting and preserving the island’s nature through the Sicily Environment Fund. One of its projects is the ‘Ghost Net Recovery’ initiative in Ustica, which collects and recycles discarded fishing nets. 

5. Croatia

Croatia is another famous island-hopping sailing destination, especially for our crewed charter catamarans. The Association for Nature, Environment and Sustainable Development (SUNCE) safeguards the country’s marine ecosystems. One project is the ‘Marine Litter Free Dalmation Islands Project,’ which empowers local communities to gather data on marine debris distribution and develop effective waste management systems through active engagement. 

The Mediterranean summer season is fast approaching; let’s protect and preserve these destinations, reducing our impact. If you still need to arrange this summer’s Mediterranean greener crewed charter catamarans, contact one of the Boatbookings team today.

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Fueling the Future: What is Best for the Boating Industry?

The boating industry has been increasing its focus on sustainability and reducing its environmental impact for some time now. As concerns over climate change and fossil fuel depletion mount, many boat builders are setting their sights on utilizing alternative fuels in the future. 

At Boatbookings, we consistently work to minimize our impact on the oceans and always offer our clients greener crewed catamaran options. 

With the advancements in technology and a growing demand for greener solutions, a range of alternative fuel options are emerging as viable contenders for the future of boating. We take a look at them here: 

Electric 

Electric propulsion systems, powered by advanced battery technologies, have become more prevalent in today’s boats. These systems eliminate the need for traditional combustion engines, significantly reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution. While there are still challenges in terms of range and charging infrastructure, battery technology is constantly improving, and today, charging within the marina is increasing, making this a better option. 

Biofuels 

A promising alternative is biofuel, derived from renewable sources such as plant materials and agricultural waste. One example being used in boating is Hydotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The benefit of this fuel is that it can be placed within existing diesel engines and, therefore, can be used for the existing fleet as it can be mixed with diesel and has been said to cut carbon emissions by 90%. At the moment, the availability of this fuel remains limited, and therefore, it is not accessible to many boats, but this is improving with demand. 

Hydrogen 

Hydrogen can be used in combustion engines and fuel cells and has been said to be the most sustainable. Therefore, hydrogen is one of the central elements of the energy transition. However, there are challenges for the boating industry. The use of hydrogen presents issues such as the large amount of volume to store and the amount of energy required from renewable sources to produce it.

Methanol 

This has been one of the leading alternative fuel options, and while not yet available for yachts, it is the most likely for the next generation of commercial shipping. However, storing methanol onboard requires much more volume, resulting in less usable space. As an alternative, this fuel can also be used via fuel cells to generate electric power. Lurssen has long been working with alternative fuel technology. They developed fuel cell propulsion technology using hydrogen, reformed from methanol.

Hybrid 

Hybrid diesel-electric engines are becoming extremely popular in boating. This alternative results in higher efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and fewer emissions. It also allows the integration of different energy sources, such as hydro generation and solar. Hybrids also will enable the mixing of mechanical propulsion with electrical propulsion. 

Solar

Solar energy has become a valuable addition to energy and is an excellent use of natural energy. Silent Yachts and Sunreef catamaran builders facilitate solar panels within their catamaran design. While solar energy is a good addition and valuable in the energy mix for hybrids, more is needed to fuel larger yachts. 

As the boating industry continues to pursue more sustainable alternatives, each fuel option has its unique set of pros and cons. Factors such as price, availability, storage requirements, safety considerations, and viability must be evaluated to determine the best option. 

The discussion is endless. At Boatbookings, we are committed to staying on top of the alternatives and implementing more ways to reduce our impact. To find out more about chartering one of our greener crewed catamarans, contact a member of the Boatbookings team today. 

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