Sardinia Trip Report – Great Yachts and Itineraries for Summer 2014

The Boatbookings team have returned to the office today after an unforgettable trip, exploring Sardinia and inspecting yachts and crews for charter next year. We cannot recommend Sardinia’s coasts highly enough, they truly offer everything a charterer could ask for, whether you charter in the north or the south you are guaranteed to see beautiful unspoilt coastline and turquoise waters. Cannigione, Sardinia

From the beautiful sights of Nora Beach on the south coast you will see stretches of golden beaches and island groups each with their own personality, perfect for anchoring your boat and enjoying the delicious Sardinian cuisine. Teulada is a beautifully quaint and quiet port boasting clear water as far as the eye can see and a great starting point for viewing the breathtaking beaches of Carloforte.

La Maddalena, Sardinia

The north also gives you plenty of options of places to see and do, from the hustle and bustle of trendy Porto Cervo to the quaint alpine village of Cannigione. There you will see flat water resembling a tranquil lake and a sharp contrast between precarious rock formations and colourful coastal towns.

Capo d'Orso, Sardinia

We couldn’t fault Sardinia, and we can’t wait to help you organise your charters there! Contact us, and look out for upcoming blogs on our favourite boats.christmas inflatables

Thailand – explore Phuket and the stunning Andaman Sea this winter!

Phuket Bay

For escaping the bitter chill that winter brings, the beautiful and exotic island of Phuket is the ideal choice. The rich cultural history complements the crystal clear waters and impeccable sandy beaches of this luxurious and popular destination. Without doubt, a winter vacation in Thailand would create memories that would stay with you and your family forever!

And how better to explore the numerous islands in the Andaman sea near Phuket than by charter yacht! A crewed sailing yacht charter offers you the opportunity to sail through the breathtaking scenery of the Andaman Sea, all while experiencing the luxury and pampering of a crewed charter vessel. Our charter broker Kevin, based in Thailand, has used his expert local knowledge to create a sample 7-10 day sailing itinerary in Phuket highlighting just some of the opportunities to be found in the glorious waters of Thailand

Clean waters of Koh Phi Phi

Guiding you straight from your arrival in Southeast Asia, our itinerary takes you on a extraordinary voyage from Phuket to the iconic Phang Nga Bay. Not only boasting the authentic fishing village of Koh Panyee, Phang Nga Bay is home to the famous James Bond Island, the set of the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun. You are invited to discover the lively town of Krabi followed by the peaceful island of Koh Lanta emphasizing the vast diversity offered to you by Phuket.

The Phi Phi Islands are yet another must-see of these waters, famed for their astonishing natural features, they represent the perfect place to try out some of the many water sports and activities that are on offer. However, no trip would be complete without a visit to the truly outstanding Racha Islands whose flawless beauty makes them a true tropical paradise. Interested in making this winter one to remember? Check out the complete itinerary here and charter a boat today!

For a selection of some of the most exquisite yachts available for charter in Thailand , visit our Phuket Charter Yachts page or contact our broker team here for more information.

AUSTRALIS – a Boatbookings favourite from Monaco Yacht Show

Many boats stood out this year as a charterer’s dream, but our visit to AUSTRALIS was one that stood out from the crowd. Resting at anchor outside Port Hercule, she looked at home among even the largest of super yachts. This Oceanfast 48 was originally released in 2010, and following a thorough contemporary re-fit in January she was introduced to the Mediterranean charter market in Summer 2013. She’ll be spending this winter in SE Asia and will be available for charter in the Maldives and Thailand. AUSTRALIS1AUSTRALIS2

The re-fit has provided the boat with a wonderfully warm and inviting interior, with a comfortable but contemporary edge. She also has a whole new inventory of equipment, toys, linens and water-sports. Her all-new crew, including experienced and relaxed British captain Mark provide the perfect charter boat for families looking to relax whilst remaining active! The British chef lived and worked in Italy for 10 years meaning she provides authentic Mediterranean cuisine but can cater for all tastes. Perfect for winter charters in SE Asia and next summer in Mediterranean. AUSTRALIS3A4Contact us for more information.

Experience the Splendour of the Monaco Yacht Show (part 2)

If you are heading to Monaco at the end of September then pay attention! Following up on our previous blog about the Monaco Yacht Show, here at Boatbookings we have put together a list of boats to look out for.

Walking around Monaco’s Port Hercules, you will be genuinely astounded at the size of these majestic machines. Expect to see yachts featuring jacuzzis, 40 foot tenders and possibly even a helicopter or submarine! These beautiful beasts of the sea exemplify the very best in craftsmanship and design.

GIORGIA

First on our list is  GIORGIA, a 37 metre luxury motor yacht from the esteemed Benetti label.  A name that exudes understated elegance, style and comfort, Benetti have spared nothing in the build of this boat. Accommodating up to 10 guests in 5 luxurious and beautifully appointed en-suite cabins, she is ideal for family vacations around the French Riviera, Italy and Croatia. Her features include a top deck jacuzzi, bar and barbecue and zero speed stabilisers which make her one our favourite charter yachts around. Benetti have a range of stunning yachts at this year`s event – be sure not to miss LATITUDE or OCEAN PARADISE – at 52 metres and 55 metres respectively it would be pretty hard to!

Whispering_Angel

Secondly, keep a look out for is WHISPERING ANGEL – a 5 cabin ISA 120. Having been built in 2008 it may seem surprising she has been included in this year`s show, however her full refit last year has made her the floating paragon of luxurious comfort. With a gorgeous al fresco dining area, splash pool on the flybridge, state of the art entertainment system and huge array of water toys, she is a great family or event boat for charter.

Oceacnco

Finally, powerhouse Oceanco will be showcasing and unveiling several of their 80 metre and upwards range, including brand new Tim Heywood designed DANA and Nuvolari & Lenard designed RIALTO. These gorgeous Goliath’s of the ocean measure in at 105 and 110 metres, and will most likely steal the show.

Come and experience the splendour of the Monaco Yacht Show 2013!

For more information on the boats or enquiries about charters, do not hesitate to get in contact with one of the team at [email protected]

The best of the best at Cannes Boat Show – Day 2

Friday at the Cannes Boat Show was another exciting day meeting with our great industry partners and checking out great boats currently on the charter market! The day began being whisked out by tender to visit two sublime luxury motor yachts based on the French and Italian Rivieras, safe to say we were not disappointed. VANQUISH_main_1First on the list was VANQUISH, a stunning and extensively refitted Palmer Johnson 120. On approach to this absolutely stunning yacht we noticed how she stood out from all others in the bay of Cannes with her flawless cream hull and distinctive Palmer Johnson lines. On embarkation everything only improved, we were welcomed warmly by the captain who is both enthusiastic about the boat and making sure everyone on it has a great charter experience! The international crew on this boat speak over 6 languages between them, meaning they can accommodate guests of all nationalities. VANQUISH continued to impress with three light, spacious, modern and luxurious double cabins and fully convertible en-suite pullman cabin. As well as this, she has a massive range of water toys including a large twin engined tender, sea doos, water skis, diving equipment, wakeboard, fishing gear, inflatable pool and a whole range of towable toys too! We left this gorgeous boat wondering what was missing… and realised it really does have everything!

ABILITY_main_1 Next was the completely different but equally mesmerising ABILITY, an eye-catching monochrome Mangusta 130. We were again warmly welcomed by a fantastic crew and a wonderful range of refreshing drinks before being shown the stunning, luxurious interior of this performance cruiser. The saloon was sexy and exciting with its range of black and white furnishings, heading downstairs the boat becomes warm and woody with a full-beam master cabin and 3 spacious guest cabins. Outside we were shown the huge foredeck, full of flexible outside areas to soak up the sun and enjoy this fantastic boat. The excitement isn’t just on the eyes, this sporty motor yacht has a cruising speed of 28 knots! We’ve only had fantastic responses from charterers onboard ABILITY, her reputation on the French Riviera means berths in the hottest parts of the coast are not a problem. Perfect for the image-conscious getaway!

The Cannes Boat Show is drawing to a close this weekend, but this year has been another resounding success, showing why Cannes is truly a hub of yachting excellence!