Quite simply, St Tropez is the most glamorous destination on the globe. Although known today for the discovery of Bridgette Bardot, the 1980’s superyachts, and the infamous Villebrequin swim shorts, the quaint fishing village was depicted by the 19th-century artists of Paul Signac which paved the way for its reputation today. St Tropez is surrounded by the Maures mountains, crystal blue waters and 17th-century Provencal-style buildings which line
In the yachting world, St Tropez will always be the most exclusive place to visit due to its inaccessibility from airports and land. Unless you want to spend the entire day in a car on very busy motorways, a boat is the only way to visit St Tropez with style. It is the only place on the French Riviera which lies untouched by commercialism, retaining a southern French charm that cannot be replicated by any other European destination.
The regatta
The Voiles de Saint Tropez regatta takes place at the end of September. The regatta sees more than 300 yachts and almost 4000 sailors annually gathering in the town to race. The regatta comprises of very varied fleets with the Rolex Trophy being the most prestigious draw towards the regatta. The prize is presented to the winning crew in a memorable prize giving ceremony on the final day of the regatta.
The 2018 Voiles de St Tropez regatta saw the celebration of the dragon fleet, build by Scottish builder and designer, William Fife. Many other one-off yachts will be racing in this regatta. Expect to see any size, any modification and any performance in this regatta. It is the European regatta for everyone. The regatta is international and welcomes sailors from all across the globe.
A regatta yacht charter is the best way to enjoy a sailing yacht without the responsibility of using your own boat in the regatta. This gives you the perfect opportunity to get your team involved in one of the most competitive regattas alongside visiting the French Riviera. Whether you’re a seasoned yacht racer or if this is a bucket list idea contact Boatbookings to find out more about the regatta and to get to know the best boats that would suit your group!
To be a part of the Voiles de St Tropez, get in contact with Boatbookings to plan your next regatta yacht charter. Broker Alice, regularly attends the St Tropez regatta and looks forward to meeting you in St Tropez in 2019. You can either find her on the water or admiring art in the Provencal streets!
Travelling across the world really broadens the mind, especially when you explore a truly majestic destination like Indonesia. Offering unrivalled scenery, world class diving and ultimate tranquility, there is no better way to spend your holidays than on an Indonesia yacht charter. Get ready to embrace everything that this part of the world has to offer!
Private Beaches, Everywhere!
Your landscapes will change every day, and even throughout the day as the tides come and go. Spend the morning snorkelling with Manta Rays in Karang Makassar and then relax on your own private beach. Your service orientated crew will find the perfect beach set up for you to relax and dip your toes in the cerulean waters.
Diving with Turtles and Sharks
Diving on the Phinisi LAMIMA is offered for all levels, whether you’re a complete beginner or extremely advanced. Jump on the tender with Wawan and Ali and you will discover magical coral formations and everything that lives in between. You can expect to see everything from white fin reef sharks to blue spotted rays and turtles. Your mind will be blown!
Spa Treatments and Honeymoons
If you prefer to take your holidays a little slower, wake up to sunrise yoga on the sundeck, followed by breakfast and a trip to the LAMIMA spa. Koko specialises in a full array of massage and beauty treatments. When in Indonesia, sample the Balinese massage to the sound of traditional Gamelan music and the ripples of the water below. Whether you’re seeking a family vacation or Indonesia honeymoon yacht charter, this destination will not disappoint.
When you think you’ve seen everything, think again. Your crew will go the extra mile and set up the ultimate final evening for your guests to experience. How does a private beach BBQ sound? Yes, all is possible onboard LAMIMA. Contact your Boatbookings Broker to plan the trip of a lifetime.
In this article, I will discuss the safety of traveling to Turkey post-2016 coup d’état and the effects this has had on tourism.
Istanbul
Over the past few years, specifically from 2016 onwards, Turkey has seen the downfall in tourism due to political conflicts and terror-related instances. In this article, I aim to dissect Turkeys conflicting past, understand what affects this is having to the present and what this means for the future.
Demographics
Turkey – where east meets west. A culturally vibrant corner of the Mediterranean enriched by its ancient history. Turkey is home to over 82 million people. Away from the larger towns, such as Istanbul or Bodrum lays a country of vastness. Approximately 104.5 people per square kilometer as opposed to England’s 427 people per square kilometer. (Statista, 2017).
While there are some problematic trends include rising unemployment and inflation, education in Turkey still remains strong. The literacy rate is high at 95.6%, a surprising statistic, however, the Turkish take their education seriously, even in rural areas. The most common foreign language, besides the native dialects, is English. Children residing in Turkey are enrolled in mandatory English classes from ages 8. Subsequently, in this culturally diverse country, the population can still communicate well with holidaymakers. (Turkey Population, 2018).
Turkey was consumed by a failed Coup d’état, a word that derives from the French language “To overthrow of an existing government”. Coups are generally a quick and sudden act of violence by a small sect of people, often military. Since 1950 an astonishing 463 Coup attempts have happened worldwide with an even more staggering statistic that 233 Coups were successful – just over 50% success rate. (Besaw, C. 2018). In the last century, there have only been two years where a Coup was not attempted, 2007 and 2018. According to OEFResearch’s Coupcast predicts that Turkey is down in the risk of another Coup, while countries like Thailand, ranked 2nd highest in `odds of a coup attempt` are up in their risk. (Coupcast, 2019).
Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Istanbul.
The Turkish Coup, arranged by the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF), attempted to seize control in several politically important areas including Ankara and Istanbul. The Coup was formed in retaliation to the Government, who was accused of controlling the media and what deemed to be enforcing undemocratic laws. The delivery of Coups are generally over quickly, however, the accusations towards to Government in question and the outcome never recede as quickly as the delivery of the Coup.
BBQ on the bow – what more could you want.
Turkey was in a state of shock, with many people killed and arrested it was a very dark time in Turkeys 95-year political history. What was often missed out in the media was something quite unprecedented. The civilians of Turkey took to the streets armed with kitchen utensils, garden tools to fight against the Turkish Armed Forces. Shoulder to shoulder with the loyalist soldiers and the Turkish police force, they were able to defeat the coup attempt within a few hours.
Early morning, Gocek.
Ancient trading routes
The years following the devastating events took a toll on Turkey in many ways – but most importantly the Tourism. Turkey is no stranger to hosting different cultures. Turkey is home to one of the many ancient networking trade routes that linked the east and west. These ancient trade routes, named famously as the ‘Silk Roads’ became established in the Han Dynasty of China era, which dates back between the times of 130BC – 1453CE. According to the European explorer Marco Polo, he noted down that the roads were used for the delivery of many goods including livestock, spices, foods, and carpets. (Masefield, J. 2011).
One of the many Silk Road routes.
The trading routes which networked through Turkey meant they were more advanced in their lifestyle development than what Europe ever was until it came to the industrial revolution. In the turn of the century, Turkey turned to tourism as being one of its main revenue sources. Turkey did this extremely well and what was impressive is that it didn’t even have to try, it sold itself. The country appeals to the masses. You have history, architecture, beaches, nightlife, sailing, exploring, tracking, health tourism and all at an extremely reasonable price. Direct flights from London means you can be totally immersed in the hustle and bustle of Turkish life within four hours.
One of my most favourite places on earth, Fethiye.
Tourism
In 2014, Turkey was ranked 6th most popular tourist destination in the world, 42 million foreign tourists traveled to enjoy all of what Turkey has to offer. This injected 32 billion euros of revenue, this provided socioeconomic growth throughout the country. (Daily Sabah, 2015). Since 2014 tourism started to decline due to the political situation that Turkey was involved in. In 2015 tourism dropped by 6 million and then in 2016 it dropped another 11 million resulting in a total drop of 17 million. This was detrimental to the country when they needed the money most. Recovery began in 2017 when tourism increased to 32 million, still 10 million less than when Turkey was in its heyday.
Ölüdeniz Belediyesi
Sailing
Nautical tourism is increasing in popularity for holiday choices. With the rise of Flotilla holidays where certificates are not always needed and thousands of bareboats around the world, it has created an accessible industry for various classes. Just like traveling by plane, yachting was seen as elitist. It was more expensive to charter yachts 30/40 years ago because there simply wasn’t a lot of yachts to charter. With the advancement of ship manufacturing, and marina building it has created a gap in the market for sailing holidays.
Two traditional sailing yachts, Gullets.
With more hulls in the water, this gave way to more accessible sailing, typically in the Mediterranean. Turkey grabbed at this opportunity and concentrated on building the infrastructure to hold yachts of all sizes and types. Turkey has many attributes that sailors look out for mainly sailing conditions and anchorages.
Marmaris
The Mediterranean is typically popular because of line of sight sailing which means even novice sailors can get around with ease. Adding to this, there is barely any tide to factor making anchoring, passage planning and general maneuvering of the yacht easier.
Temple of Apollo
Turkey is in the prime position for an eclectic mix of chartering. The wide range of yachts that take advantage of this historic country may surprise you. From traditional sailing boats all the way through to superyachts – this country has something for everyone. Not only does Turkey offer some of the best sailing in the Mediterranean, but it also offers a lot of excursions on land too.
Lycia, Fethyie
Historical sites dating back to a mind-blowing 10th millennium BC. Turkey is also famed for its Turkish Hammams, which are extremely popular not just in Turkey but worldwide. Turkish Hammams combines the Roman baths and the Arabic steam baths, Hammam is actually the Arabic word for ‘bath’.
Hierapolis
To date, France and Turkey have the same threat level on the UK Home Office travel advice page stating that attacks are very likely to be carried out. However, this did not stop 89 million tourists visiting France alone in 2018. This indicates that even though there are threat levels people are still willing to visit terror hit countries. It begs the question that perhaps culture is more the defining factor rather than the threat level.
Fethyie
Personally, I believe as a nation, and as a fellow sailor, we should not let these terrorist groups dictate our lives and hinder what we can and cannot enjoy in life. This is not to say we should not proceed with caution, but if we exercise too much caution, we could overlook some of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.
2. Besaw, C. (2018). The conversation. Retrieved from 04/03/2019: https://theconversation.com/no-coups-occurred-in-2018-will-next-year-be-so-stable-108387
6.AFP. (2017). Turkey
tourism income slumps after attacks, coup. Retrived from 04/03/2019:
https://tribune.com.pk/story/1312674/turkey-tourism-income-slumps-attacks-coup/
7. Masefield,
J. (2011). Marco Polos The Silk Road (Art
of Series) (Art of Wisdom). London, United Kingdom.
8. M, Sariisik.
O, Turkay. O, Akova. (2011). How to
manage yacht tourism in Turkey: A swot analysis and related strategies.
Elsevier LTD: Amsterdamn, Netherlands.
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most dynamic and fascinating places to enjoy your summer 2019 luxury yacht charter. Cruising from village to village offers unrivalled scenery, history and natural beauty. Your Amalfi Coast itinerary will include some of the best restaurants, spa hotels and beach clubs in the country.
Image from www.villamaria.it
Hotel Villa Maria – Ravello
Originally a Roman nobleman’s retreat, Hotel Villa Maria is a grand mansion situated in the heart of Ravello, looking out to the most spectacular sea views of the Amalfi Coast.
Image from www.villamaria.it
The restaurant is definitely one to try, attracting many celebrities and celebrity chefs. The chefs use the freshest ingredients that are homegrown in their biological gardens to produce creative and innovative dishes that capture the taste of the Amalfi region.Set on a picturesque terrace, this really will be a dining experience to remember.
Villa Scarpariello – Ravello
Image from www.villascarpariellorelais.it
Who wouldn’t want to spend a night living the fairy-tale dream in a medieval castle on the sea? Villa Scarpariello is an impressive building, situated just down the coast from Ravello, where you can delight in the old world charm of its romantic rooms and beautiful terraces.
With private access to the sea and your private Amalfi Coast yacht, this is an ideal spot to stop during your charter vacation and enjoy unparalleled tranquillity.
Il San Pietro – Positano
Image from www.ilsanpietro.it
Zass restaurant at Il San Pietro is simply sublime; from its breathtaking views over Praiano and the coast, to the gastronomic menu, you will not be disappointed. Chef Alois Vanlangenaeker guided the restaurant to be awarded its Michelin star in 2002, and he has sustained this high standard ever since.
Image from www.ilsanpietro.it
The restaurant’s food is refined and pure, designed around the concept of taking fresh and locally grown Italian ingredients, and elevating them to new level.
We trust our Amalfi Coast insights have sparked your imagination to charter one our luxury yachts; please contact your Boatbookings Broker today, who will be happy to organise and book your charter around your exact specifications.
The Greek islands can be windy in July and August. This, however, is an advantage for our action seeking clients! Kitesurf is the new fad with an increasing number of devotees.
Kitesurfing requires a basic level of lessons from an instructor, but after some lessons, you can find yourself skimming on top of the waves –and if you are bold enough jumping above them!!! Some Greek luxury charter yachts have their own kitesurf instructors onboard, but there are several spots in the Greek islands where you can get your lessons. Here’s a selection of the best kite surfing spots in Greece:
Naxos Island is the most known kitesurfing spot in the
Cyclades. When the meltemi is blowing, Mikri Vigla bay is the ideal playground
for kitesurfers. A steady wind of 20-25 knots and relatively high waves combine
to create the ideal conditions for spectacular jumps. When you are not
wrestling with the wind and waves, take some time to explore the island of
Naxos, particularly the Northern inland villages, which are unspoiled by mass
tourism.
In the Ionian Islands, you can kitesurf in Lefkada island. The beach in Agios Ioannis is conveniently close to the marina and has some of the best waves in the area. In general, the Ionians boasts very calm seas on the Eastern shores (which represent the favorite yacht cruising ground in the area), but are exposed to the long stretch of open sea on their Western shores (which can be windy and abundant with waves).
