In this week’s episode we start off anchored next to a pencil dot of sand and rock surrounded by reef, then sail 180nm north east to Pulau Belitung in the Java Sea.

To be honest, we’re running out of superlatives for Indonesia and it’s going to be difficult to say which is our favourite place here.

The islands of western Sumatra were remote and untouched, Krakatoa was awe-inspiring, Jakarta was insane, the Thousand Islands enchanting and now Belitung looks like it will be a gentle haven.

We’ve heard that Indonesia was voted one of the safest places in the world for tourism and yet people still worry about coming here.

It’s a shame, because the country is like nowhere we’ve been in terms of the welcome we have received.

There’s something for everyone, from natural wonders to extraordinary and unique fauna, diverse cultures and an immense history, stunning beaches and clear blue water.

It is a country of seafarers so turning up in our boat has guaranteed smiles, gifts and curiosity. If you ever get the chance to sail here we say do it!

The post Followtheboat: Exploring an uninhabited private island appeared first on YBW.

We sailed into the deep bay next to Pulau Macan (aka ‘Tiger Island’) for the night and stayed for a week. The only difference between this tropical island and a boat is that it’s permanently moored. Just like us, the island has no shore power so they use solar panels to generate power.

Water is a precious commodity, so it’s used sparingly. They only eat fish they catch, and they source all other supplies locally. Yes, it has trees. And there are monitor lizards. But let’s not get too picky about it…

Few people outside Indonesia know about the Seribu Archipelago (aka ‘Thousand Islands’). According to the owner, no other sailboats had anchored next to the island before, so we were somewhat of a curiosity. The welcome could not have been warmer.

If you are looking for a taste of tropical peace and serenity only normally accessible by sailboat we’d recommend Pulau Macan as the next best thing.

Two hours by motorboat and you’re slipping into the sea straight from the island’s deck. If you’re lucky you’ll swim with a turtle and watch rays glide by, just like we do on our boat.

And no, we’re not being sponsored by the resort, we just love the place.

The post Exploring Pulau Macan: The tropical island that thinks it’s a sailboat appeared first on YBW.

As much as we love anchoring in the remote and white-sand bays of south east Asia’s islands, we never pass up a chance to drop in on some of the towns which make up this diverse part of the world.

Being a born and bred Londoner Liz is partial to a capital city, so we berthed SY Esper in the centre of Jakarta’s waterfront at Batavia Marina.

The marina sits in the ancient port of Sunda Kelapa, home to Indonesia’s iconic Phinisi boats. Originally plying their trade in the Java Sea by sail, they were converted to engine power in the ‘70s, when their masts were removed or transformed to cranes.

Jakarta is a city of contrasts: poverty sits next to wealth, beauty and squalor share the same space and the Dutch colonial old town faces modern shops and hotels. We walked and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere, invariably met by smiles and a welcome.

In this episode we have tried to capture something of the spirit we found in Jakarta. But big changes are coming: President Joko Widodo recently announced that Indonesia’s capital is being relocated to Kalimantan on the island of Borneo. What will happen to Jakarta then?

The post Sailing Jakarta: Polluted, noisy, overcrowded but absolutely brilliant appeared first on YBW.

After a night at anchor under the cliff face of Krakatoa, we moved our sailboat closer to the smouldering remains of ‘Child of Krakatoa’.

In December 2018 Anak Krakatoa, after erupting for months, boomed out one last explosion before crashing beneath the waves. The resulting tsunami destroyed much of the coast of Java, killing over 1,000 people.

When we arrived a few months later, the caldera (now at sea-level) was still bubbling and smoking, spewing out pumice, lava and chemicals into the sea.

With SY Esper safely anchored off Rakata Kecil, Jamie took the dinghy ashore to walk across the black sand of the recently decimated volcano.

Liz remained on board SY Esper, using the excuse that she might be needed to come and rescue him, or pull up the anchor sharpish.

But both of us knew that Liz was just too scared! Jamie took the handheld VHF radio so Liz could stay in contact with him.

Jamie wasn’t going to miss this opportunity to step on shore at the place he’d been dreaming about since he was a boy.

The post Sailing Krakatoa Part 2: Shoreside excursion on an active volcano appeared first on YBW.

When we heard about the landslide of Anak Krakatoa and subsequent tsunami in December 2018 we were horrified to learn about the devastation to local communities along the coast of Java.

Out of respect for those caught up by the tsunami, we made the decision not to anchor along the Javanese coast where the biggest loss of life had occurred.

There were no charts or even satellite imagery with up to date information about the Krakatoa archipelago, so we wondered if we would be able to get near.

We made the decision that all we could do was try, and that if it looked too dangerous or a definite no-go we would carry on to Jakarta.

Even though two thirds of Anak Krakatoa slid under the water, it is a haunting sight. Possibly even more so because the volcano is still very much alive.

With palms sweating and adrenaline spewing through our veins, the sea flowed beneath us as we motored inside the archipelago.

If you were sailing on your dream boat, where would you go, and what is at the top of your bucket list? We were surprised by which spot came out top!

The post Would you anchor beneath an active volcano? Sailing to Krakatoa Part 1 appeared first on YBW.

The biggest cruise ship in the world – Symphony of the Seas – will be unveiled in April 2018.

The Royal Caribbean ship will tour Europe, visiting Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Provence, France; and Florence/Pisa, Rome and Naples, Italy.

It will then sail to Miami, Florida, which will become its new home. From there, it will do regular seven night sailings to the Caribbean.

At more than more than 230,000 gross registered tons, Symphony of the Seas will span 16 guest decks.

One of the areas for children on board

It will be able to carry 5,500 guests at double occupancy, and will feature 2,759 staterooms.

The cruise ship has been designed with families in mind, with the aim of offering adventure holidays on board.

“We’re excited to introduce Symphony of the Seas, our boldest composition yet, offering the best of Royal Caribbean with some new surprises for our guests to create a vacation that adventurers of all ages can enjoy together,” explained the firm’s president and CEO, Michael Bayley.

The Playmakers Bar on the Boardwalk

“We set out to create a new level of vacation adventure and deliver the ultimate escape for families of all shapes and sizes. Symphony will introduce the most cutting-edge, customisable, and digitally-enhanced experiences in the Royal Caribbean fleet,” he added.

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The ship, like Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas, will be divided up into neighbourhoods which will host dining and family activities, theatre, aerial, ice and aqua entertainment,and the Ultimate Abyss – the tallest slide at sea.

One of the many restaurants on board

The seven unique neighbourhoods include the:

Boardwalk – Home to a sports bar and arcade, hand-carved carousel and the AquaTheatre, where guests can experience stunning aquatic acrobatics and high-diving aerial performances;

Central Park – With more than 12,000 lush tropical plants, this open-air space features meandering walkways with quiet nooks for reading and relaxing, retail boutiques and specialty restaurants including Chops Grille, Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, 150 Central Park and Vintages wine bar;

Entertainment Place –  A contemporary night club district, which features the largest casino at sea, a comedy club, fill-scale ice rink, glow-in-the-dark laser tag game, and a jazz bar;

Pool and Sports Zone – Home to the ship’s most active adventures, including the Ultimate Abyss – the tallest slide at sea, FlowRider surf simulators, a mini-golf course, a nine-deck-high zip line, and the beach pool;

Royal Promenade – Dining, bar-hopping and shopping abound on this bustling main street at sea;

Youth Zone – Adventures for children of all ages;

Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Centre – Chill out or work out at the largest spa and fitness center on the high seas.

Symphony of the Seas will be the 25th ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

The post Explore the world’s biggest cruise ship – Symphony of the Seas appeared first on YBW.

Cunard has announced plans to add a fourth ship to its fleet.

The luxury cruise firm said its parent company – Carnival Corporation & pls – had signed a memorandum of agreement with Fincantieri S.p.A., Italy, to build the new liner, which will join the fleet in 2022.

The ship has yet to be named, but will be joining Cunard’s existing vessels – Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth.

The new 113,000 GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) vessel will carry 3,000 guests and will be the cruise line’s 249th ship.

It will be the company’s first new ship in 12 years, since the launch of Queen Elizabeth in 2010.

The cruise line has invested substantially in its fleet recently.

It has spent more than £120 million refurbishing the flagship Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria.

It has also rolled out new itineraries featuring new destinations and special event voyages for 2018 and 2019, and has tapped into high end markets, introducing new bar and dining signatures, entertainment offerings and brand partners across the fleet.

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The senior vice president of Cunard, Simon Palethorpe, said: “We have only recently marked the 50th anniversary of one of Cunard’s much loved ocean liners, the legendary QE2.”

“What better way to celebrate her important role in Cunard’s past than by announcing our commitment to Cunard’s future with the commissioning of a new ship,” he continued.

“Cunard offers unrivalled luxury ocean experiences and the new ship firmly underpins our plans to continue our growth across international markets,” added Palethorpe.

Further details about the ship will be announced in 2018.

Once the new vessel is in service, it will mark the first time since 1998 that the cruiser brand will have four ships in simultaneous service

The post Luxury cruise brand, Cunard, announces fourth ship appeared first on YBW.

St Regis Mauritius

Nestled beneath the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Le Morne Mountain and overlooking the Indian Ocean, the five star St Regis resort is the perfect location for a luxurious holiday for couples, multi-generational groups, wedding parties and honeymooners.

With 172 rooms in total, including seven suites, the hotel is ideal for a relaxing holiday but also for those who love water sports and activities. Just a short stroll along the beach, guests will find the world’s best kite surfing and surfing hotspot- One Eye (reportedly named for the view of a hole or ‘eye’ surfers will see in the jagged rock face of the Le Morne Mountain, should they reach the sweet spot). The island also boasts an unrivalled lagoon landscape and incredible flora and fauna for divers and snorkelling enthusiasts, as well as a range of kayaking, stand-up paddling, windsurfing experiences and sailing excursions.

Land-based adventure can also be arranged from the comfort of the hotel with a range of excursions including safari tours, hiking, zip lining, horse riding and skydiving. Boasting a vast array of rare wildlife and breath-taking landscapes including a range of rare birdlife and natural sights including stunning natural waterfalls, the famous pilgrimage site and sacred lake of Le Grand Bassin and the well renowned Black River Gorges National Park.
Those looking for a bit of pampering can take advantage of the Iridium SPA which offers an array of treatments and also has a fitness centre.
The hotel is well known for its restaurants of which there are five plus the option of having a private dining experience prepared by the executive chef. Prices start at around 500 Euros per person per night. Click here for more information.

Marigot Bay Marina and Resort by Capella, St Lucia

Located on the lush west of coast of St Lucia, Marigot Bay Marina and Resort by Capella is a stone’s throw away from the famous Pitons and the town of Soufrière. This stunning resort is surrounded by lush natural beauty and emerald seas and boasts 67 suites, 57 guest rooms with breathtaking views across the bay and hot tubs. It has a spa using natural products grown on site, two pools, gym, bars, several dining options including The Grill at 14⁰61⁰, The Rum Cave, The Bayside Cafe’, Brut Bar and Pool Bar for lighter snacks and private and in room dining.

Yacht owners will love its secluded and sheltered marina that can accommodate 20-25 large boats and superyachts.

There are plenty of activities to be taken advantage of, from sailing to windsurfing, boat trips and snorkelling. Service is exceptional: attentive, discreet but never stuffy. Prices start at $303 per person per night. For more information click here.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Situated above the beaches of Phu Quoc, on Vietnam’s south east coast, this luxurious hotel boasts 244 rooms and suites, many overlooking the bay, and villas with private pools. The rooms are all decorated to high standards, with a luxurious but light and airy feel to them. There are five restaurants offering scrumptious local and international cuisine, a spa, three outdoor pools and an indoor one, a gym and fitness classes. Water lovers will be spoilt for choice with activities such as boating, kayaking and snorkelling.
Bike tours are also on offer for those wanting to explore the stunning surroundings on two wheels.
Prices start at around VND 9,500,000 per person per night. Click here for more information.

Amilla Fushi, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Sheer luxury right in the middle of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Amilla Fushi is the perfect location to leave it all behind and holiday like a star. The secluded island is reachable by seaplane and offers plenty of complimentary services such as a kids’ club and babysitting facilities, daily laundry, WiFi and even non motorised water sports. The resort offers several dining options, from gourmet experiences to barbecues on the beach at the Emperor’s Beach Club.

A water sports centre caters for a vast array of activities, and those who prefer to stay on dry land can take advantage of the tennis courts or football pitch. If you are after a bit of high end shopping there are plenty of boutiques where you can indulge in a little spree before relaxing in the hotel’s spa and getting pampered at the hair and nail salons. There is even a photography studio if you want your holidays immortalised by a professional. Accommodation is in the form of 59 modern houses that sit in crystal clear water and are shaded by lush greenery. Many have multi bedrooms and are fitted with all mod cons. Yachts, superyachts and motor boats are also available to guests to explore nearby islands. Prices start at around $1000 per night for two adults. For more information visit the Amilla Fushi website.

Chiva-Som, Thailand

Those looking for a wellness spa holiday will love Chiva-Som in Thailand, a stunning resort in Hua Hin, south Thailand, which used to be a fishing village.
Chiva-Som boasts 54 stylish rooms, split between Thai pavilions, in traditional Thai style, Ocean rooms and suites with views over the Gulf of Thailand. Fitness and wellbeing are taken seriously here and the resort offers 70 treatment rooms, a kinesis studio, gym, Watsu pool, flotation pool, large outdoor swimming pool, bathing pavilion with kneipp bath, sauna, steam, jacuzzi, and indoor swimming pool. The food is all grown locally and focuses on being healthy with plenty of gluten, sugar and wheat free options. There are also international dishes and snacks on the menu.

Guests are offered a health and wellness consultation on arrival based on the person’s needs and fitness goals. A programme is then put together and an advisor will measure progress throughout the stay. One spa treatment per day is complimentary.
The beautiful Gulf of Thailand caters for a huge selection of water sports and if you want to explore Thai life, Hua Hin has plenty to do: from bars to food shacks and markets, boutiques and stunning nature, there will never be a dull moment.
Wellbeing Escapes offers a 7 night ‘Destination Spa’ programme at Chiva-Som from £3,688 pp double occupancy, £4,545 pp single occupancy. Prices are based on a June departure and include full board spa cuisine, daily massage, £470 spa credit per person, daily group fitness classes & leisure activities and water therapy suites, steam, sauna and Jacuzzi access. For more information, contact Wellbeing Escapes on
020 3735 7555 or info@wellbeingescapes.com  www.wellbeingescapes.com, and http://www.chivasom.com/.

Essque Zalu Zanzibar, Tanzania

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Essque Zalu is nestled in a natural cove on the north east of the coast of Zanzibar, surrounded by the forest and overlooking the Indian Ocean with its turquoise sea and huge stretches of white sandy beaches. The area is still untouched by mass tourism, so it’s a pretty special place to visit if you are after sun, sea and tranquillity. The hotel boasts 40 suites with master bedroom, lounge and outside terrace or balcony under a traditional pitched Makuti roof, whilst the eight villas have their own private pool, in-room dining, large living room, kitchen, outdoor space and even a private massage area.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy: from snorkelling and scuba diving to visiting nearby turtle sanctuaries and the fragrant spice plantations, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

After a day of fun, kick back and relax with a delicious cocktail in one of the three bars. If you are after something cosy, the Baobab bar, under the shade of a huge baobab tree is ideal. If you prefer having an aperitif by the water, the Jetty has stunning views over the shoreline and also does food, and if you like taking a dip in between sips, head over to the Pool bar where the experienced mixologists will prepare you a delicious drink.
Post aperitif the Market Kitchen offers delicious food made with fresh local produce with plenty of dishes featuring seafood, meat, vegetables and a selection of cheeses.
Whatever you may need during your stay will be carefully attended to by a ‘navigator’, a member of staff on hand to help with anything: from booking excursions to making sure that piece of local art you’ve fallen in love with is sent straight to your home once you leave. Prices start at around £300 per person per night. For more information visit http://www.essquehotels.com/.

Bannisters by the Sea, New South Wales, Australia

A stone’s throw away from Mollymook and Narawalle beaches, this spectacular hotel in New South Wales is only a 3.5 hour drive from Sydney and offers stunning views of the coastline. Its 34 luxurious rooms, including Ocean Deluxe, Spa Retreat, Luxury Suite, Terrace Suites, the new Collette Dinnigan penthouse suites and the Pinnacle, are modern yet luxurious with plenty of space, light and stunning sea views.  The hotel offers all mod cons, including complimentary breakfast and WiFi, plus free standup paddle boards and free bicycle hire. The hotel boasts a modern spa that offers many treatments to cater for different needs and a heated infinity pool.

Foodies will love the Rick Stein at Bannisters Restaurant, which offers seafood fresh off the boat. If you are feeling a little less informal, the Pool and Pizza Bar has a selection of tapas, light meals and stone-baked pizzas. Activities are aplenty with windsurfing lessons and fishing charters on offer. There are also two golf courses: Mollymook Beach being a 9 hole with great ocean views and Hilltop being 18 holes. If you fancy taking a stroll, the area offers a great selection of local cafes and boutiques or you can simply make the most of the beach, get yourself a sun lounger and cocktail and relax. Prices start at AUD 340 per night.  Click here for more information.

Tierra Chiloé, Chile

Located in southern Chile, on the edge of the blue waters of Chiloé island, the largest island of the Chiloé archipelago on the Pacific Ocean, eco hotel Tierra Chiloé was designed by architects Mobil Arquitectos using local materials, and it was inspired by traditional local houses built on stilts over the water.
Set in more than 25 acres of countryside and beach, with stunning views over the mountains and the ocean, the hotel is close to the Pullao wetland, home to dozens of endemic birds and marine species, making it a perfect luxury destination for those who love nature and wildlife.
It offers 12 (soon to be expanded to 24 due to the hotel’s success) beautiful rooms, all with jacuzzi bathtubs and stunning views of the ocean.

A  spa onsite that offers a selection of treatments and a pool will be open in October 2017, but the hotel already offers a small treatment room, hot tub and steam room.
There are also plenty of activities to take part in, including boating, horse riding, hiking, biking and day excursions.
The culinary experience is unmissable with plenty of fresh seafood on offer, with ceviche being a popular dish and a version of the local curanto, a medley of shellfish, smoked pork, and potato, is also on the menu.
The hotel is open from September through to May and offers 2 nights from £1112 per person, based on two people sharing. For more information click here.

The Ritz-Carlton, Manama, Bahrain

Situated on the north coast of Bahrain, this hotel has been created with sheer opulence in mind.
It offers several rooms, suites and villas, all decked with marble, dark woods, precious carpets and luxurious decor. All accommodation has spectacular sea views and living rooms with the suites also boasting a large dining room and a Jacuzzi tub.

Guests can enjoy the hotel spa, which offers a variety of treatments, a gym and a stunning pool.
When it comes to food, you’ll be spoilt for choice as the hotel houses 10 restaurants offering different types of cuisine, including Italian, Thai, Mexican, Indian, mediterranean, seafood and even afternoon tea.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy, including sailing, water sports, excursions, hikes and a kids’ club. Prices start at around £280 per person. Visit their website for more information.

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Loews Coronado Bay, San Diego, USA

Located on top of its on 15-acre peninsula overlooking the San Diego’s bay waters and skyline, this hotel feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Loews Coronado Bay offers 439 luxury rooms, which include 37 suites, all decorated in colours that mirror their surroundings: think blue, light green, grey and white. They all have spectacular sea views and all mod cons, including WiFi and private balconies, whilst the suites and larger rooms also having a lounge and dining area.
The hotel offers plenty of services and amenities, including three heated pools, a pool cabana to enjoy a drink by the water whilst relaxing, a pool concierge, so you can make sure you won’t have to lift a finger, the Sea Spa for all your pampering needs, including indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon and an outdoor Watsu pool. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the gym and take advantage of personal trainers.

Boat lovers and owners will enjoy the hotel marina which has 80 berths and can accommodate yachts up to 140 feet in length. The marina is well equipped and offers WiFi, water, electricity, permanent and guest berths, telephone, Venetian-style gondola cruises to the adjacent Coronado Cays and complimentary shuttle to Coronado.

The hotel is located just minutes away from the Silver Strand State Beach, where a multitude of water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, water skiing and kayaking can be enjoyed.
Those preferring land pursuits can make the most of the three golf courses or enjoy bike rides and hikes.
After a day of activities, enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine at the Crown Landing bar, or even better, order a craft beer made locally in San Diego. Two of the onsite bars also offer light meals and small plates but you can also visit La Cantina restaurant for an idyllic poolside dining experience. Prices start at around $269 per person per night. For more information click here.

The post 10 Most beautiful hotels in the world by the water appeared first on YBW.

Michelin Guide chefs cooking mouthwatering meals to suit your palate, customised spa and massage treatments and dozens of superyacht toys for thrill seekers, these charter yachts offer the ultimate luxurious getaway in Bermuda.

They are ideal for those who may have non sailors in their party, as well as providing the perfect platform to host parties and champagne receptions after watching all the action from the 35th America’s Cup, which kicks off on 26 May.

Maltese Falcon

Credit: Burgess

One of the most impressive yachts on the planet, any time spent on the iconic Perini Navi Maltese Falcon promises luxury like no other.

A professional crew of 17 caters to your every need and whim.

Michelin Guide 2016-17 listed chef, Richard Cullen, creates exquisite dishes, while the stewards and stewardesses on board are trained to mix signature cocktails.

Her vast deck spaces are ideal for entertaining, and up to 50 guests can be hosted for watching the live racing, for relaxing days at anchor in the pristine waters of Bermuda or for sipping champagne cocktails while watching the sun set.

The VIP outside bedroom

If you like to keep fit, the superyacht’s fitness trainer will put you through the paces with a fitness programme tailored for your needs in the onboard fully equipped gym or if you prefer al fresco training, on deck.

Afterwards, unwind with a luxurious spa experience. The onboard qualified beauty and massage therapist can provide a range of  treatments such as aromatherapy, Swedish and deep tissue massage.

Enjoying the signature cocktails on board

Maltese Falcon will certainly be one of the largest and most impressive yachts attending the America’s Cup as a spectator vessel.

LOA: 88m (288.7ft)

Guests: 12

Berth number: 5, America’s Cup Marina, Royal Navy Dockyard

Charter rate: EUR 440,000 per week. Special dispensation for 50 guests while spectating the race at anchor

Athena

Credit: David Churchill

The fourth largest sailing superyacht in the world, Athena has a phenomenal pedigree.

Timeless styling, beautiful furnishings and sumptuous seating feature throughout to create an elegant and comfortable atmosphere for an intimate, opulent getaway.

Athena has impressive leisure and entertainment facilities, making her the ideal charter yacht for socialising and entertaining with family and friends.

Impressive marble bathroom in the Master Suite. Credit: David Churchill

On board, there is an air conditioned gym, and plenty of superyacht toys to keep guests entertained including a freestyle waterslide, wake board, laser dinghies, kayaks, scuba diving equipment, kite surfer and wakeboard.

A dream place to soak up the sun. Credit: David Churchill

If you just want to relax, there are plenty of places for sunbathing in style, with uniformed staff bringing you mouth watering cocktails and tasty treats prepared by the onboard chef.

The crew of 19 will ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.

LOA: 90m (295.3ft)

Guests: 1o

Berth number: 4, America’s Cup Marina, Royal Navy Dockyard

Charter rate: USD 350,000 per week + all expenses & berth fee of USD 26,845 per week.

Mondango 3

Delivered in 2014 by Alloy Yachts, Mondango 3 is a striking performance ketch designed by Dubois with a sophisticated interior by Reymond Langton.

She is perfect for dinner parties alfresco, with a large aft cockpit which can be sheltered by electric glass panels offering privacy as you entertain.

There is also a further intimate dining area under the flybridge, where staff will serve delicious, beautifully prepared meals.

Alfresco evening dining in style

During the day, enjoy spectacular 270-degree views while you unwind with a cocktail in the sunken spa pool on the aft deck.

For thrill seekers, Mondango 3 comes with a range of superyacht toys such as a floating pool, paddleboards, Hobbie kayaks and towable toys – with trained crew on hand to help you make the most of them.

Hardcore America’s Cup racing fans will find the vast fore and aft deck spaces plus her sizeable flybridge provide plenty of options for enjoying the racing action.

Take in the view from the sunken spa pool

Mondango 3’s voluminous interior is light and airy, yet full of character with unique textures, contrasts and detailing throughout, resulting in a stunningly original contemporary environment.

Accommodation for up to 11 guests in five beautifully appointed cabins is arranged in a full beam master suite amidships, plus a VIP suite, a queen and two twins – all with pale marble ensuites.

For those wanting an evening on dry land, Ascots Restaurant  just outside downtown Hamilton is well worth a visit.

It offers a creative and seasonal menu that incorporate fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, and has an extensive wine list – the chilled banana soup with Bermuda Black Seal rum and toasted almonds is not to be missed.

LOA: 56.4, (185.1ft)

Guests: 11

Berth number: 6, America’s Cup Marina, Front Street, Hamilton

Charter rate: EUR 224,000 per week.  Special dispensation for 25 guests whilst spectating the race at anchor

Marie

This ravishing ketch was custom-built in the Netherlands to an André Hoek design by Vitters in 2010 and masterfully combines thoroughbred sailing credentials with the highest level of superyacht elegance.

Offering stunning traditional looks, harnessed with modern technology, Marie is served by a dedicated crew of nine who are as passionate about five-star service as they are about sailing.

Professional chef Jemma Harrison has an extensive food repertoire so expect first class dishes alfresco and delicious intimate breakfasts in the private aft owner’s cockpit.

In addition to sailing the big boat, Marie offers the chance to dive into blue, crystal clear water and come face to face with colour fish, with snorkelling and rendezvous diving expeditions, as well as exploring on sea scooters.

Main saloon complete with a Steinway Baby Grand Piano

The piece de résistance is an exquisite sailing dinghy, Marietta, with an electric motor that was custom-built for Marie, based on a 1910 Mylne design. It offers intimate getaways for small groups.

If you’ve got a head for heights, there is a crow’s nest lift that operates hydraulically and can take two guests 123 feet up the main mast for a bird’s-eye view.

Marie’s deck and outside areas is perfect for hosting cocktail parties under the stars, with the main cockpit is a generous area offering casual seating arrangements.

Relax in the onboard steam room

For music lovers, the lower salon features a Steinway Baby grand piano and comfortable sofa seating for a musical soirée.

Artwork and antique armament abound adding colourful eclectic touches to the clean contemporary design of the interior.

If yoga is your thing, classes are held on the deck most mornings as the sun rises and after you can relax in the steam room.

LOA: 54.9m (180ft)

Guests: 8/10

Berth number: 4, Princess Marina, Hamilton

Charter rate: USD 250,000 per week or USD 1,000,000 for the whole period. Special dispensation for 25 guests whilst spectating the race at anchor

H

Expect five-star treatment onboard H –  your own private floating boutique-hotel.

This super-stylish Benetti motor yacht boasts a chic contemporary interior along with extremely well executed deck spaces.

Enjoy sundowners and a panoramic view at the long modern deck bar, lined with stylish Glyn Peter Machin chairs.

Sip champagne cocktails on the sumptuous settees and sample haute cuisine around the large table for alfresco dining.

Foredeck, complete with Jacuzzi

The upper deck offers luxurious surroundings. Loll and soak up the sun on the kingsize sunpads before cooling off in the especially designed deep Jacuzzi.

H‘s main saloon is lined with large picture windows: for those who love the movies, sink into two large, reclining cinema seats set before a huge screen.

An elegant foyer leads into the expansive, full beam master suite with his and hers walk-in wardrobes and a quiet relaxation area with an ergonomic day bed reclined before its own TV screen. His and hers bathrooms are fitted with heated flooring and connected by a shared shower with a heated seat.

Full beam master suite

The yacht comes with a personal trainer so you can keep fit in the air conditioned gym.

The tender garage placed transversely to the beam houses water toys and the Castoldi jet tender  – ideal for evening trips to the Fodder’s choice, Coconuts outdoor restaurant which is nestled between high cliff rocks and a pristine private beach.
The restaurant specialises in fresh local produce and fish prepared with customary Bermudian flair, for memorable evenings out with friends.

LOA: 42.6m (139.8ft)

Guests: 10

Berth number: 11, America’s Cup Marina, Royal Navy Dockyard

Charter rate: USD 175,000 per week

Genevieve

Built in 1996 by Alloy Yachts and refitted in 2015, this beautiful Dubois designed sloop marries impressive sailing performance with gracious living, enhanced by her sumptuous Glade Johnson-designed interior.

Wide open deck spaces and a spacious cockpit are ideal to relax under Genevieve‘s huge sails.

In addition to her main saloon furnished with a colour palette filled with shades of earthy tones, Genevieve offers a light and airy deck saloon with wraparound pilothouse windows where you can drink signature cocktails while taking in the panoramic views.

Is there a more perfect spot to sunbathe? Credit: Alexis Andrews

At anchor, there is an array of toys to keep water babies entertained, including inflatable kayaks and snorkelling equipment to explore the pristine reefs, plus water-skis and wakeboards.

Two tenders – a Ribtec with 100 HP outboard engine, and a four-metre Achilles with 25 HP outboard engine –  are perfect for taking you to alfresco lunches and dinners ashore, where you can sample the famous Bermudan fare.

Attention to detail guarantees a luxurious stay on board

If you can’t bear to leave the luxury all around you, why not try your hand at fishing for your supper?

The onboard chef will cook it to perfection, and you can eat surrounded by timeless styling, beautiful furnishings and sumptuous seating features throughout.

Genevieve is a fantastic charter for those who are true salty sailors (with an edge of luxury) at heart.

LOA: 36.9m (121.ft)

Guests: 8/9

Berth number: 16, America’s Cup Marina, Front Street, Hamilton

Charter rate: USD 91,000 per week

Pioneer

Upper deck of Pioneer. Credit: Quin Bisset

Built with exploration and discovery in mind, Pioneer is available to give you one of the best seats in the house to watch the America’s Cup racing in Bermuda.

Expect five star treatment all the way from the superyacht’s crew, who provide a high level of bespoke service on board.

The split-level sundeck offers panoramic views, and provides the ideal space for tailored al fresco workouts or yoga sessions.

Credit: Quin Bisset

This charter is ideal for thrill seekers as this Pamer Johnston-built superyacht comes packed with the latest toys including two 3 seat Yamaha Waverunners, kayaks, towable toys and a doughnut.

Pioneer is also a certified PADI Dive Centre yacht. Professional scuba diving instructors can show you the best of Bermuda’s colourful coral reefs and the island’s myriad of marine life.

They can also teach guests to dive with confidence.

Pioneer has warm interiors like the main salon. Credit: Quin Bisset

Throughout the ship, timeless styling, beautiful furnishings and sumptuous seating feature creating an elegant and comfortable atmosphere.

Pioneer‘s impressive leisure and entertainment facilities make her the ideal charter yacht for socialising and entertaining with family and friends.

Once the America’s Cup action is over, Pioneer‘s 8,000 nautical mile range means you can go on to your next off-the-beaten track adventure…in true luxury.

LOA: 46m (150.9ft)

Guests: 10

Charter rate: From USD 120,000 per week

For more information on chartering Pioneer visit the Y.CO website.

All these yachts are available for both private charters and corporate hospitality in Bermuda, promising the most luxurious seats to watch all the America’s Cup racing action in May and June.

VIP packages are available on all the super yachts and they include:

• VIP flag allowing access to a “field of play” front row view of the race course immediately adjacent to the electronically defined race course boundary;
• Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Qualifiers Opening Ceremony;
• Access to exclusive America’s Cup parties/events for two people and the opportunity to purchase more tickets if available;
•  VIP access to Club AC for two people on every race day;
•  Access to pit lane base tours for two people;
• Access to Post Race Press Conferences for two people;
• Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Challenger Playoffs and 35th America’s Cup prize giving events for two people;
• America’s Cup Superyacht Regatta entry.

For more information visit the Burgess website.

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