Where We’re Going This Summer

Winter is comfortably behind us, and summer has finally settled in, bringing warmer temperatures and longer days. Here at Boatbookings, we couldn’t be more excited about our upcoming vacations and the boats we’ll be taking to explore undiscovered islands and towns that await! We can plan your charter vacation too; just get in touch and email [email protected] today!

Name: Ben, Charter Broker
Destination: Sardinia

The combination of the breath-taking Tavolara, chic Porto Cervo, the beautiful Maddalena and iconic Bonifacio are unbeatable. Sardinia is discreet and exclusive, the perfect yacht charter destination. I’d combine the quiet anchorages around Porto Pollo with beautiful Port towns like Porto Rotondo and Bonifacio. I’d go for traditional Italian coffee and breakfast at the Cafe du Port (Porto Cervo), then cruise into the Maddalena, swim at Caprera (Cala Coticcio), seafood lunch at La Scogliera (Isola Maddalena north, close to Cala Spalmatore) and then back to Phi Beach Club (Porto Cervo) for sunset. I would stay there, but you could also then go for dinner at Just Cavalli Porto Cervo and then onto Billionaire Club!

Chosen Yacht: PORTHOS SANS ABRI – with a yacht owner that has picked the best crew from his fleet of yachts, you are in excellent hands with Captain Carlo. He knows the area inside out, so whether you’re looking to relax, water sports or party, he will take you to the best spots. Contact: [email protected] 

 

Name: CordeliaCharter Broker
Destination: Ibiza and Palma

The craziness of Ibiza is a lot of fun and there is an abundance of great beach clubs – Blue Marlin, Juan y Andrea, Lio for the night, then head over to Formentera for a change of scenery. I would be travelling with my family, so would want to visit Mallorca for a quieter time in beautiful bays and the national park Dragonera. The stunning natural beauty of this area is breathtaking and spots are best accessed on a boat, with secluded bays offering us some downtime from the buzzing vibes of Ibiza!

Chosen Yacht: QUASAR – she has the best crew who have been together since last summer; their deckhand loves the water toys, there’s a fabulous chef that makes the best fresh tuna tacos and Captain Ian knows all the more remote spots in Ibiza, not just the obvious places. The yacht is in great condition and has lots of exterior space to kick back and relax as you soak up the sun. Contact: [email protected]

 

Name: EveProduct Manager
Destination: Greece

Having spent just a short weekend in Greece last month, I am super keen to go back again. Greek people are all so friendly and welcoming, the food is amazing – particularly the baklava and souvlaki – and the weather is always hot hot hot! In particular, I want to go sightseeing in Athens and visit some of the islands – some more rural like Milos, and some more for partying like Mykonos, as Greece is so versatile!

Chosen Yacht: BARENTS SEA – Barent’s sea has had a full refit and is so modern, gorgeous and has the most amazing stewardess and chef, who will go above and beyond to ensure an exceptional charter. Her interior is stunning, with a true feel of a luxury floating hotel at your own disposal! Contact: [email protected]

 

Name: Eleanor, Sales and Marketing Executive
Destination: French Riviera

Having moved to the Cannes office for the summer season, I’ve adored being in the South of France – it’s perfect for relaxing on the beach and the French Riviera has all the beach clubs, bars and incredible restaurants you could ask for, so no need to go elsewhere! I would do a Day Charter from Cannes to St Tropez or Monaco during my time off, as I think exploring the coast by yacht is unrivalled. I’d spend the day cruising with the music going and drinks flowing with friends, before having lunch at one of the glamorous Beach Clubs; then swim and use the water toys on board before returning back to Cannes for an evening out at Baôli, our favourite club.

Chosen Yacht: REHAB – she is ideal for cruising along the hotspots of the French Riviera and has plenty of deck space for tanning and chilling with friends. Inside there’s a great seating area, too, for sipping champagne whilst on the water!

Contact us today for more information about any destination you might like to charter in – we can plan an amazing trip for you!

Monaco Grand Prix: Formula 1 Heads Home

The Monaco Grand Prix is without doubt one of, if not the most, prestigious events in the Formula One Racing calendar. Having been named the home of F1 Racing, as the residence of a number of F1 drivers, it is also the host of the Historic Grand Prix, which has already taken place.

From Thursday 24 May to Sunday 27 May 2018, all eyes are on the racetrack that runs through this billionaire’s playground, with tensions high as it is renowned to be one of the most challenging to navigate.

Favourites Red Bull and Ferrari head to Monaco with high hopes, whilst Mercedes have some concerns over the manoeuvrability of their car on the slow, tight track around the Principality. Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton is 17 points ahead of Sebastian Vettel for Ferrari following wins in the past two races, but with doubts from the team, it is unclear whether Mercedes will remain in pole position.

Take a look at @boatbookings on Instagram for updates as we follow the qualifiers and final race, live from the French Riviera!

The ultimate way to experience the race is undoubtedly from a berth in the Port on your very own luxury yacht charter; away from the commotion of the crowds, sit back and relax as you watch the high-speed entertainment on board a stunning charter yacht. Book now for the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix; bookings must be secured by November to ensure a spot in the lively Port. Our favourite yacht TOBY is ideal for a weekend at the F1 Race; enquire now so we can plan an amazing charter for you!

Get in contact today to organise your charter for the Monaco Grand Prix; take a look at our French Riviera Day Charter Page to discover more about chartering for the day in this iconic region of France, including St-Jean Cap-Ferrat, Cannes, Antibes and St Tropez.

All Eyes on Cannes – the Film Festival Arrives for its 71st Year

The biggest event in film is returning for its 71st year in the beautiful South of France. For two weeks, Hollywood will take short-term residence along the French Riviera as a number of original films compete for numerous awards such as the prestigious Palme D’Or, Un Certain Regard, Best Actor and Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival (Festival de Cannes en Français).

Having been comparable to “two weeks at the Oscars” the Cannes Film Festival is entrenched in glitz and glamour, with previous celebrity attendees being models, actors and music artists alike, such as Rihanna, Nicole Kidman, Bella Hadid, David Beckham and Jessica Chastain. With Cate Blanchett heading up the panel as President of the Competition Jury, this year’s Film Festival promises to be as magical as the last.

Films to watch out for this year include the Spanish psychological thriller Everybody Knows directed by Asghar Farhadi, which will open the Festival. Some of the other most anticipated films being featured include Under the Silver Lake, BlacKkKlansman, Girls of the Sun, Fahrenheit 451 and The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, the Festival’s closing film.

Experience Cannes in its full glory during the 71st Annual Film Festival; chartering a luxury yacht to witness this celebrated event is the ultimate experience. Charter for events, day charters or week-long rentals and enjoy the opulence of the French Riviera in true style. Enquire today with Boatbookings to find out more!

The International Unveiling of the New Lagoon Seventy 8

Since 1984, Lagoon have produced over 3,000 sailing catamarans globally, firmly placing themselves as one of the leading pioneers within the industry. In more recent years they have been at the forefront of the catamaran world and they continue to push the limits of innovation and quality.

In an interview earlier this year, the globally renowned designer Patrick le Quément, who designed the exterior of the Seventy 8, stated: ‘Our desire was to increase the emotional charge of the Lagoons, giving them greater charm to accompany the architectural breakthroughs that have made the brand an archetype.’

So, how has Patrick and the rest of his design team attempted this and has it been successfully achieved? Our brokers went to the international launch of the Lagoon Seventy 8 at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2017 to check it out.

From the get-go, we were completely enchanted by the Seventy 8. Stepping aboard, we were greeted by a large wooden dining table, complete with super comfortable seating pads, we couldn’t help but fall in love with her effortless style.

Walking into the cleverly compartmentalised saloon, it was obvious to see why Lagoon has become serious competition for the builders of luxury power catamarans. Two large corner sofas dominate the living area – perfect for relaxing evenings with family. The innovative design of the saloon allows for further sofa space whilst keeping the Captain’s controls separate from guests.

Head downstairs into the Master Cabin and you will notice that the elegant interior styling flows seamlessly throughout, with subtle trim lighting adding a modern edge. Without a doubt, the highlight of the Master Cabin is the drop down hydraulic balcony. This space allows for total privacy; your own personal platform for gazing out onto breath-taking views, peer through the glass floor and you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the kaleidoscopic sea life in the crystal-clear waters below.

The flybridge provides another shaded platform for dining and enjoying the surroundings as well as a bar for endless cocktails and canapés. The Lagoon Seventy 8 is seriously impressive and stylish, we’re hooked!

What’s changed from the Lagoon Seventy 7?

What we believe has been achieved in the Lagoon Seventy 8 is the outstanding and innovative use of space on the bow, never seen before on their previous models. For example: on the Seventy 7 range, the bow is dominated by duo netting for sunbathing, whilst the Seventy 8 has opted to replace these nets with teak decking and beautifully appointed sunpads and puffer-stools, resulting in both aesthetically pleasing and ergonomically advanced effects, as well as opening-up the space.

So, the question is, has Patrick and his design team achieved what they set out to do? Does the Lagoon Seventy 8 host features of emotional charm and architectural breakthroughs? Overall, our brokers unanimously agree that the new Lagoon line is 78ft’ of expertly designed, yachting perfection. From aft deck to bow, from master cabin to the four-peak cabin, from the state-of-the-art entertainment system to the silverware; the Lagoon Seventy 8 is simplistic innovation at its finest.

Watch this space for Lagoon Seventy8’s debut into the charter market, we can’t wait to get our hands on it!

 

A Day in the Life of an Intern, Part VII

This blog continues the ‘day in the life’ series, as an intern at Boatbookings. Without a doubt one of the best days so far was Friday 27th May when I accompanied Charter Broker Ben on a broker sailing day around Cap D’Antibes.

Sailing in the south of France

We started our day in Port Gallice in Juan les Pins, where we were picked up by the tenders. 2 minutes out of the port we came across the 8 stunning sailing yachts which were anchored off the coast for the day. Ben and I headed straight for WALLY ONE, the original Wally sailing yacht built in 1980. Continue reading