Elite Yachts

F A L L 2 0 11
Moonstruck
Astronomical wristwatch. Self-winding. Moon phases. 18 ct rose gold case. Water-resistant to 100 m. Leather strap with folding buckle. Limited Edition of 500 pieces.
For a catalog, call 561 988 8600 - email: usa22@ulysse-nardin.com or Ulysse Nardin Switzerland - +41 32 930 7400 - email: info@ulysse-nardin.ch W W W . U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M
Official Sponsor
The Knowledge.
Whether you want to buy, build or borrow, speak to the superyacht superagents.
62.5m Baton Rouge at anchor, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Build project management: Burgess Operational management: Burgess Central Agents for charter: Burgess
the superyacht superpower
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enquiries@burgessyachts.com
www.burgessyachts.com
Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the documents required by Section 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee. Certain units in this condominium are subject to timeshare estates. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this project. This offering is made only by the prospectus for the condominium and no statement should be relied upon if not made in the prospectus. Not an offering where prohibited by law. The developers use of the St. Regis trademarks is pursuant to a license from the Sheraton LLC. St. Regis, SPG, Preferred Guest and their respective logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its afliataes. The complete offering terms are in an offering plan available from the sponsor. File No. 07-0294. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFER.
Two Legendary Names, One Extraordinary Address.
After years of planning, design and development, this fall Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, will welcome South Florida and the world to its pre-eminent oceanfront address: The Residences at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. On the beach in Americas most exclusive village, across from the celebrated Bal Harbour Shops, this landmark destination is imbued with incomparable St. Regis service, quality, amenities and traditions. The advantages of life in a world-class St. Regis Resort are inestimable: , discrete Butler service, a Remde Spa gourmet dining by world-renowned Chef Jean-Georges, 24-hour room and valet service and more. Scheduled for completion fall 2011. Hotel to open winter 2012. We invite your inquiry.
TWO- TO FIVE-BEDROOM CONDOMINIUM RESIDENCES FROM $2-$11 MILLION. COLLINS AVENUE AND THE OCEAN, ACROSS FROM BAL HARBOUR SHOPS.
305 993 6000

STREGISBALHARBOURRESIDENCES.COM
Inspired living. Unrivaled address.
Montres DeWitt SA 2011. With apologies to Hans Holbein the Younger.
TWENTY-8-EIGHT TOURBILLON
Ev e ry D eW it t is bu ilt by a dedic at ed m a st er h o ro l o g i st a n d e a c h i n c l u d e s a n a u d a c i o us t w i st on t he cl ass ic al w at ch m ak e rs ar t . www.d e wi t t . ch
T H E C R E AT U R E
T H E C R E AT O R S
H O R O LO G I C A L M A C H I N E N 0 3 T H E E N G I N E
LOS ANGELES : WESTIME LOS ALTOS : LUSSORI GREENWICH : MANFREDI MEXICO : BERGER SAINT-BARTHELEMY : CARAT & TIME COSTA RICA : HOSSLI JEWELERS LONDON : MARCUS PORTO CERVO : GREAT MASTERS OF TIME MILANO : GREAT MASTERS OF TIME GSTAAD : GRIMAWATCHES INTERLAKEN : KIRCHHOFER PARIS : CHRONOPASSION MOSCOW : MERCURY UKRAINE : CRYSTAL WATCH CENTRE KUWAIT : GHADAH DUBAI : SEDDIQI BANGKOK : PMT THE HOUR GLASS KUALA LUMPUR : THE HOUR GLASS SINGAPORE : THE HOUR GLASS MACAU : EUROPE WATCH GROUP TAIWAN : TIEN WEN WATCH CO. TOKYO : THE HOUR GLASS PERTH : SWISS TIME MACHINE
H O R O LO G I C A L M A C H I N E N 0 3
Contents
34
Yachts
instruction. In this edition of Elite Traveler Superyachts, we feature yachts that are built to provide some of the most unique charter experiences in the world, featuring amenities that often cannot be found anywhere else.
22 Latest launches
The summer season may have come to an end but there are plenty of spectacular new yachts making their debut this autumn and gearing up for their first winter season of charters.
108
36 40 43 46 48
Top charter yachts for slow sailing Top charter yachts for gaming Top charter yachts for music lovers Top charter yachts for deep-sea fishing Top charter yachts for the Bahamas
28 At one with the ocean

Elite Traveler Superyachts profiles the 1976/60.2m Yogi, with its stunning finishes, a relaxing interior and an enviable beach club which all combine to make it one of the finest yachts to hit the charter market this year.
60 Pedigree filly
As owners of champion racehorses, the couple who commissioned Hurricane Run know all about speed and pedigree. Their resulting Feadship, named after the champion racehorse, was launched in 2009 and certainly boasts elite breeding.
34 Top charter yachts

The idea of luxury yacht charter is to create a vacation that is specific to your dreams. Each yacht is different, each destination is different, and each crew offers unique talents ranging from five-star cuisine to master scuba
108 Fantasies come true

Fabulous fantasies of creativity thunder through the minds of owners and designers, and splurge onto blank drawing boards from where the next generation of yachts is dreamt up.
F A L L 2 0 11
On the cover: Hurricane Run in the Caribbean. he luxurious T 1755/53.5m Hurricane Run is offered for charter through Camper & Nicholsons International as central agents (www. camperandnicholsons. com). Photography by Ed Holt.
112 Eye of the architect

Eyecatching modern yachts all have their own charms and unique styles, but who is it that creates such magnificent structures? In the first of a new series that goes behind the scenes of the superyacht industry, Elite Traveler Superyachts talks to world-famous yacht designer Espen Oeino.
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BORN IN ITALY. LIVED WORLDWIDE.

A symbol of Made in Italy craftsmanship is more than just a work of design. It is a way of looking at the world. It is an experience that renews itself day after day. A CRN mega-yacht is a universe of style, comfort and technology created for those who strive for excellence and exclusivity.
CRN S.p.A. - Ancona, Italy - ph. +39 071 5011111 www.crn-yacht.com
Contents
52
68
Destinations
95 Destination GuideSingapore
Enjoy the perfect introduction to the sights of Singapore, one of Southeast Asias most vibrant cities, with our Elite Traveler Destination Guide.
102
52 Virgin cruising grounds

With a balmy climate, steady easterly trade winds and an abundance of sheltered anchorages, the US and British Virgin Islands were made for the waterborne. This ten-day cruise steers you to some of the finest ports and anchorages in the Caribbean.
102 Top ocean suites

Superyachting up or down the western coast of North America? These hotels are well worth checking in to, even if it means a quick private jet hop.
66 Where to winter
We ask a handful of charter brokers for their recommendations on the best cruising grounds for a winter charter.
High life
120 Twinkle toes
Extravagant embellishments give grounded sandals a dressed-up attitude.
68 A touch of Floribbean
With its year-round balmy temperatures, Florida is the ideal place to berth your yacht, typically at one of the many world-class marinas in the chic cities of Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach.
121 New bohemian

Embrace your inner boho with a glam kaftan for the beach and beyond.
124
72 Treasures of the South Pacific

When it comes to the ultimate tropical getaway, the islands of French Polynesia in the South Pacific are in a league of their own. No other cruising destination is quite as remote and exotic as these intriguing islands.
122 Evening hours

After dark, trade in your rugged timepiece for something a bit more refined.
123 Blue mood 78 Eastern promise

For those wishing to explore beyond the popular cruising grounds of the Mediterranean and Caribbean, turn east to the hauntingly beautiful waters of Southeast Asia and the South China Seas. With bright colors and a sporty silhouette, Faonnables newest is the perfect between-seasons cover-up.
124 Yacht accessories

Our pick of the best new luxury products, with a distinct eye out for the yachting enthusiast.
85 Destination GuideHong Kong

Our new Elite Traveler Destination Guide to Hong Kong is designed to ensure you get the most from your visit to this fascinating city.
128 Yachting events

Our round-up of classic and modern yachting events around the world this fall and winter.
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Presidents page
Relax into fall

Welcome to the fall issue of Elite Traveler Superyachts. As we celebrate a fantastic and successful year in publication, we are delighted to bring you, once again, the very best in elite travel. Fall is traditionally a time to retire from the world and prepare for the winter season ahead. But at Elite Traveler Superyachts we are certainly not suggesting you do the rsttheres far too much out there to explore. This issue of Elite Traveler Superyachts has scoured the globe to discover great things to guide you through the fall and winter season as we head to 2012. As always, superyachts remain the most luxurious way to travel. The possibilities are endless and the oceans are vast. With this in mind, we bring you a portfolio of incredible new yachts available for charter, with an in-depth focus into the revolutionary motoryacht Yogi (page 28) plus recommendations on top charter yachts available this winterfrom slow-paced yachts for cruising, the best yachts for deep-sea shing, and for music lovers, to the ideal selection of yachts for cruising the shallow waters of the Bahamas (page 34). We also prole one of the most popular charter yachts on the market today, Hurricane Run, which will be in the Caribbean this winter (page 60), and take a look behind the scenes with a prole of the world-famous yacht designer Espen Oeino (page 112). Once you have your yacht decided, you then need an equally inspiring destination. Plan a fantastic Caribbean charter with our regular Onboard feature that takes you on a cruise Doug Gollan Group President and Editor-in-Chief All the best, With inspiration aplenty, we hope you enjoy to the full the coming season of luxury travel. And nally, as a nod to all things winter, we have gathered together the must-have products to take onboard, and delved into the delicious world of the latest nautical fashions and accessories (page 120). through the Virgin Islands (page 52); or you could consider venturing further aeld to the South Pacic (page 72)our guides bring you the best these cruising grounds have to offer. For those looking to stay west, our marinas special focuses on the best of Florida and all that Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach have to offer, be it gourmet restaurants and nightlife, or a little bit of culture for the daytime (page 68). We have also dedicated 22 pages to the highlights of Asia, bringing you all the delights to be found on the islands of Phuket, Hainan and Langkawi; as well as in-depth guides to Hong Kong (page 85) and Singapore (page 95).
Luxury surroundings onboard Solemates
18
www.camperandnicholsons.com
MONACO I ANTIBES I GENEVA I LONDON I MIAMI I FORT LAUDERDALE I PALM BEACH I NEW YORK I NEWPORT I MALLORCA
SALE & PURCHASE I NEW CONSTRUCTION I YACHT CHARTER I CHARTER MARKETING I YACHT MANAGEMENT I CREW PLACEMENT
With more than 100 years of charter experience between them, Camper & Nicholsons Internationals charter agents will provide you with an exceptional and luxurious vacation on your ideal yacht; whether you are looking for fine cuisine, family fun, a relaxing time, extreme adventures or a unique cultural experience
C&N marks are registered trademarks used under licence by CNI. Photo: All rights reserved
SuperyachtS getawayS hotelS | reSortS | SpaS DeStINatIoN guIDeS elIte traVeler aSIa
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ElitE luxury Publishing, inC. president dOuGlaS d. GOllan Executive Vice president daniEl WadE
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LA BALISE MARINA
MAURITIUS FOR LIFE
News and previews | Latest launches
Latest launches
The summer season may have come to an end but there are plenty of spectacular new yachts making their debut this autumn and gearing up for their first winter season of charters.
Above and below: The 2297/70m Numptia exudes distinctive contemporary styling both inside and out
Numptia
Recently launched by Italian yacht builder Rossi Navi, the 2297/70m Numptia features a simple, but powerfully styled superstructure by exterior designers, Design Studio Spadolini and naval architects, Axis Group Yacht Design. Built in steel and aluminium, her imposing appearance is further enhanced by her dark navy blue hull. Featuring a luxurious interior design from Studio Salvagni Architetti, her vast interior spaces and well-thought out design combine to create a stylish and simple interior. There are spacious accommodations for 12 guests in six staterooms, including a full-beam master suite, VIP suite, three double cabins and one twin. She also boasts a unique spa deck with a beauty salon, massage room, sauna, Turkish bath and gym. All deck areas are accessible via the glass elevator, which links all four decks. Numptias interior is further complemented by her spacious exterior deck areas. Designed with charter and private cruising in mind, she has a variety of shaded areas, and large open areas for entertaining. Numptia features state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities, touch-and-go helicopter amenities, and the latest watersports equipment. Numptia will be debuting at the Monaco Yacht Show in September. A nautical color scheme gives Numptias deck a relaxed finish
Specifications
Length | 2297/70m Beam | 404/12.3m Year | 2011 Builder | Rossi Navi Interior designer | Salvagni Architetti Guests | 12 Crew | 18 Charter grounds | Numptia is available for charter this winter season through Burgess Prices | from 490,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Neil Hornsby, nhornsby@burgessyachts.com, +44 20 7766 4300, www.burgessyachts.com
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Speci cations
Length | 200/61m Beam | 349/10.6m Year | 2011 Builder | Azimut-Benetti Interior designer | Evan K Marshall Guests | 12 Crew | 15 Charter grounds | Diamonds Are Forever will be available for charter from December through Ocean Independence Prices | please enquire Above and right: The 200/61m Diamonds Are Forever showcases natural elegance and charm Contact | Broker Peter Thompson, pt@ocyachts.com, +44 7788 755334, www.oceanindependence.com
Diamonds Are Forever

windows to create a light and airy interior.
Launching in October this year, Diamonds Are Forever is a stunning new 200/61m motoryacht from the renowned Italian yard Benetti. She features a signature Evan Marshall interior in a variety of natural shades including browns, tans, creams and whites, that are showcased by the natural light that lters through the large Diamonds Are Forever features guest and service elevators to all deck areas, a full beam sky lounge and vast open and shaded deck areas. Of particular note is the additional top deck, located above the sun deck, which forms a private, panoramic area. The aft part of the sun deck, outtted with several loungers, can be transformed into a touch-and-go helipad. The accommodation onboard Diamonds Are Forever comprises two panoramic master suites and four guest staterooms.
Yogi
This 1976/60.2m Proteksan motoryacht comes with several innovations. Among the best of these are the oversized windows and portholes along her superstructure hull, and a main deck pool area on the aft deck with a beach club area below. Located on the aft part of the main deck, the large pool has a glass skylight with a view down into the beach club below, and allows access to the bathing platform and side balcony area. Yogi accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms, including a master suite and VIP stateroom on the main deck, and a further three double cabins and one twin cabin on the lower deck. To nd out more about what makes Yogi so special, see our Above and below: Yogis generous spaces boast impressive views Spotlight feature on page 28.
Speci cations
Length | 1976/60.2m Beam | 301/9.4m Year | 2011 Builder | Proteksan Turquoise Interior designer | Jean Guy Vergs Guests | 12 Crew | 15 Charter grounds | Yogi is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season through Burgess Prices | from 357 ,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Gaye JoyeauBourgeois, monaco@burgessyachts.com, +377 97 97 81 21, www.burgessyachts.com
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Specifications
Length | 1837/56m Beam | 376/11.5m Year | 2011 Builder | Perini Navi Interior designer | Perini Navi Guests | 10 Crew | 9 Charter grounds | Fidelis is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season through Perini Navi USA Prices | from 200,000 per week Contact | Charter Manager Rana Johnson, Above and right: Refined luxury onboard the 1837/56m Fidelis rana@perininaviusa.com, +1 401 683 5600, www.perininavi.it
Fidelis
The tenth yacht in the highly successful 56-meter series from the Italian builders Perini Navi, and the 51st yacht to be delivered by the yard, Fidelis was launched early in the summer season. Designed by naval architect Ron Holland, she has ample areas for enjoying life on deck, with two cockpits, one fore and one aft. The former cockpit is for guests to enjoy the wind while under sail, whilst the latter has a well-protected dining and lounging area, along with access to the flybridge. Fidelis interior layout has everything the owners wanted and the whole feel is one of spaciousness. Designed inhouse by Perini Navis architects, it has a refined style with simple, clean lines. The main saloon is divided into two areas by a central steel and wenge staircase that leads to the lower deck. Two sliding glass doors separate the living and dining areas. On the lower deck, Fidelis has accommodation for 10 guests, including a full-beam master stateroom, and four guest cabins, two of which have Pullman berths.
Turquoise
The 1819/55.4m Turquoise took to the water early in 2011 and has had an extremely successful debut season in the Mediterranean this summer. The first of several orders to be launched by the Turkish Proteksan Turquoise yard this year, including the aforementioned Yogi, Turquoise is a repeat order from the owner who built his first yacht with the Turkish yard in 1994. The yachts solid pedigree includes a sleek and modern exterior design by Ed Dubois and an interior by HOK Design and Suntay Design. The owners request was for a yacht built for Above and below: Turquoise was built for comfort and performance performance and comfort, and Turquoise achieves just that with top speeds of 17 knots with minimal noise output and a range of over 5,000 nautical miles. Onboard Turquoise, guests will enjoy vast living and outdoor spaces, looked after by a crew of 13. Internally, she can sleep 12 guests in six staterooms, and as one would expect from a yacht of this size and pedigree, she boasts all the latest technologies including state-of-the-art entertainment systems. She has a full array of water toys, including wake boards, water skis, WaveRunners, and scuba diving equipment.
Specifications
Length | 1819/55.4m Beam | 306/9.3m Year | 2011 Builder | Proteksan Turquoise Interior designer | HOK Design, Suntay Design Guests | 12 Crew | 13 Charter grounds | Turquoise is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season through Fraser Yachts Prices | from 275,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Jan Henry, jan.henry@fraseryachts.com, +1 954 522 3344, www.fraseryachts.com
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MALTA PROPERTY INSIGHT

MALTAS PROPERTY SEARCH COMPANY
www.maltapropertyinsight.com
Acting only on behalf and in the interest of the buyer, we seek and find Maltas finest properties.
Contact: Francis Raeymaekers + 356 2152 4899 fr@maltapropertyinsight.com Malta Property Insight Ltd Malta
Specifications
Length | 1781/54.3m Beam | 296/9m Year | 2011 Builder | Amels Interior designer | Christian Liaigre Guests | 11 Crew | 11 Charter grounds | Spirit is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season through YCO Yachts Prices | from US$325,000 per week Contact | Charter Manager Carly Sutton at YCO, Above and right: The 1781/54.3m Spirit offers the best in understated opulence carly.s@ycoyacht.com, +377 93 50 12 12, www.ycoyacht.com
Spirit
The latest launch by the prestigious Amels shipyard, Spirit is part of the Amels Limited Editions 171 series designed by Tim Heywood Design. The large sun deck is designed for entertaining and is a space complete with sunloungers and seating areas where guests can relax, dine and watch movies. Internally, the pervading ambiance is light and airy, reflecting the harmonious transition from exterior to interior spaces achieved by Spirits designers Christian Liaigre. While the main and upper decks are traditional and formal places of entertainment, the main scene for outdoor/indoor living is the skylounge and aft deck area. Spirit also offers a spa room, and accommodation for up to 11 guests in five well-appointed staterooms, including a main deck master stateroom, two VIP double cabins, and a further double and twin cabin, all on the lower deck.
Hemisphere
The most eagerly awaited sailing catamaran to be launched during the last few years, the 145/44.2m Hemisphere was delivered from the Pendennis Shipyard in the UK late in the summer and at her launch became the worlds largest luxury sailing catamaran. With a draft of just over 3m, Hemisphere can access shallow draft destinations in tropical cruising grounds with ease. She boasts a spacious flybridge with Jacuzzi, sunpads, and shaded dining along with a vast indoor/outdoor living area on the main deck. She also has a large swim platform and an array of water toys, while her elegant interior is contemporary and chic. Luxury is not represented through exotic design or lavish decoration, but instead the yachts exceptional volume offers a high degree of luxury through the absence of excess. Dark wood floors are offset by a neutral color palette, which includes 17 different types of granite and 16 leather finishes. Accommodation for 12 guests is arranged in five cabins.
Specifications
Length | 145/44.2m Beam | 545/16.6m Year | 2011 Builder | Pendennis Shipyard, UK Interior designer | Michael Leach Design Guests | 12 Crew | 8 Charter grounds | Hemisphere is available for charter through Burgess. She will be in the Caribbean this winter season, followed by a transit through the Panama Canal into the South Pacific for summer 2012. Prices | from 175,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Lesley Excoffon, lexcoffon@burgessyachts.com, +377 97 97 81 21, www.burgessyachts.com Top and above: The 145/44.2m Hemisphere celebrates simplicity
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Yacht Charter The ultimate getaway
Photography: Kristina Strobel
Far from todays cares and distractions, time on board a luxury private yacht not only affords you the privacy and space to properly enjoy the company of family and friends, it also allows you to explore the world differently. Ask for an Introductory Charter Pack from YPI Charter and open yourself to a whole new world.
Contact Fiona Maureso on +33 493 340 100
charter@ypigroup.com
www.ypigroup.com/charter
YPI BROKERAGE I YPI MANAGEMENT I YPI CREW I YPI CHARTER
www.ypigroup.com
spotlight | Yogi
ocean
At one with the
to make Yogi one of the finest yachts to hit the charter market this year.
BY MiriaM Cain YaCht photographY BY MarC paris
Stunning finishes, a relaxing interior, and an enviable beach club all combine
Launched in March from Turkeys ProteksanTurquoise yard in Istanbul, this 1976/60.2m motoryacht is the second successful launch for the yard this year, and the yards largest yacht to date. Yogi features exterior and interior design work by Jean Guy Vergs. Her distinctive exterior lines are similar to an expedition vessel with vast outside deck spaces, and a spacious interior. Many years of chartering gave her owner a clear picture of what he wanted for his own yacht. The brief was to create a yacht with unique features that would allow a guest to feel connected to the water. And onboard Yogi a guest feels just that. The vast superstructure is deliberately designed to offer views over the water from almost every vantage point, with oversized portholes and windows bringing natural light into the interior.
the 1976/60.2mYogi resembles an expedition-style vessel
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Day e kh G em s
w w w. d a y e k h . c o m
Simply The M os t Be a u t if u l Dia m ond s E v e r M a de
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Spotlight | Yogi
Elementary yet stylish alfresco dining aboard Yogi
The connection to the water is further enhanced by the large temperature-regulated swimming pool aft of the main deckjust one of the many significant design features onboard. With a clear glass front panel and a glazed skylight on the bottom, the suns rays are reflected onto the vast beach club spaces below. The beach area is in fact made up of two magnificent beach club areas, each with its own access to the water from either the bathing platform or side balcony area.Yogi also offers a Jacuzzi for up to six guests on her sun deck, surrounded by built-in sunbeds, a large alfresco dining area with seating for up to 14 guests, and a Teppanyaki bar. Inside, Yogis Asian-inspired interior provides ample private and public spaces for guests to enjoy. The owner requested a clean and contemporary interior with a combination of woods and fabrics that would complement the clean lines of her exterior. Designer Jean Guy Vergs has drawn inspiration from Asian influences; the use of natural woods, complemented by tan and white soft furnishings, and contemporary furniture, make her calm and light interior akin to her Yogis decks are designed with relaxation in mind
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Spotlight | Yogi
Specifications
Length | 1976/60.2m Beam | 301/9.4m Year | 2011 Builder | Proteksan Turquoise Interior Designer | Jean Guy Vergs Guests | 12 Crew | 15 Charter grounds | Yogi is available for charter in the Caribbean this winter season through Burgess, www.burgessyachts.com Prices | from $357 ,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Gaye JoyeauBourgeois, monaco@burgessyachts.com, The large main saloon is a perfect entertaining space with superb views +377 97 97 81 21
namesake (Yogi means practitioner of yoga). Even the ceilings are finished in the same effect, with the use of slate-looking panels and leather stitching. Her amenities include a massage room and bar aft of her beach club area, and a multimedia playlounge with computer stations, video games, and a large
movie screen on her sundeck. The owner wanted a big main saloon and large formal dining room for entertaining, whilst the upper lounge areas were to be lighter and more conducive to lounging and smaller, intimate parties. All of this has been achieved and the yachts voluminous interior includes a large main saloon (over 100 square
meters) and formal dining area (60 square meters) on the main deck, which are the more formal spaces of the yacht; whilst the playlounge on Yogis sundeck, and upper deck lounge, along with the remainder of Yogis spaces, are all designed for casual and comfortable relaxation. There are two cinema areas onboard, one on deck where the sun
Yogis unique design connects guests with the ocean
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Spotlight | Yogi
Yogi can accommodate 12 guests amid luxury surroundings
With its twin Caterpillar 3512B engines, Yogi reaches speeds of up to 16 knots
The opulent VIP stateroom
pad can be adjusted to provide comfortable seating towards the large screen; whilst forward in the main saloon, guests can watch movies while relaxing on one of the large sofas. There is spacious accommodation for 12 guests in six staterooms, including a main deck master suite with a private lounge area, office dressing room and his and hers bathrooms, which combined cover a space of 75 square meters; a VIP stateroom, also located on the
main deck; and three further double cabins and a twin cabin on the lower deck. Yogi has two tenders onboard, and a host of watertoys, including WaveRunners, SeaBobs, and towable toys, all of which can be stored forward of the beach club area.
Powered by twin Caterpillar 3512B engines of 1,911hp each, Yogi reaches speeds of up to 16 knots and cruises comfortably at 13 knots. For long-distance cruising, 12 knots gives her a comfortable 5,000 nautical mile range. Indeed, both inside and out, Yogi lacks nothing;
Since leaving the shipyard in March, Yogi has covered about 5,000 nautical miles and, according to her captain Jean-Louis Carrel, she handles well at sea.
innovative design features and the highest quality finish have ensured that she is one of the finest yachts available for charter today.
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Top charter yachts
Top charter
yachts
The idea of luxury yacht charter is to create a vacation that is specic to your dreams. Each yacht is different,
each destination is different, and each crew offers unique talents ranging from ve-star cuisine to master scuba
instruction. In this edition of Elite Traveler Superyachts, we feature yachts that are built to provide some of the most
unique charter experiences in the world, featuring amenities that often cannot be found anywhere else. The following pages include charter yachts that focus on luxury gaming, deep-sea shing, slow-pace cruising, and onboard music systems. We also highlight yachts that offer top-notch experiences in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas, where charter acionados are discovering year-round opportunities for memorable getaways.
BY KIM KAVIN
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Top charter yachts
Sycara Vs opulent dining area is ideal for large events

Credit: Bob Marchant and Chris Gonta
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Top charter yachts | Best slow-pace yachts
Leisurely cruising on the 223/68.1m Sycara V

Best slow-pace yachts

Sycara V
At 2235/68.1m, the Nobiskrug Sycara V may look like a gas-guzzling behemoth, but she is actually just the opposite. She was built for an owner who has had many custom motoryachts and who has come to appreciate the value of cruising slowly, enjoying the scenery, and burning as little fuel as possible along the way. The top speed aboard Sycara V is 12 knots, but Captain Stewart Fontaine says that the yacht is at her utmost efciency when cruising at 10 knots. She has the range to cruise from Panama to Australia at that speed, burning less than 50 gallons of fuel per hourabout one-fth the rate of some other megayachts in her class. All the while, charter guests can enjoy the extensive entertaining areas that the owner created both indoors and out. Upwards of 40 guests can easily be accommodated for luncheons thanks to exible dining spaces onboard. Also worth noting is that Sycara V offers 20 beds for overnight guests, with plenty of opportunities for the maximum capacity of 12 charter clients to enjoy as much privacy as they would like. 12 guests, 16 crew, weekly base rate about $825,000. Contact: Jennifer Saia at International Yacht Collection, +1 888 213 7577 jsaia@iyc.com, www.iyc.com. , The 138/43m Calliope is a perfect choice for the environmentally conscious
Credit: Camper & Nicholsons International
Calliope
The Holland Jachtbouw shipyard has long been known for exceptional quality and Dutch craftsmanship in sailing yachts, but it only recently began applying its decades of yacht-building experience to motoryachts. The 138/43m Calliope is just the second motoryacht to emerge from the storied builder, which constructed her for the same owner who bought the yards rst motoryacht, the 105/34m Cassiopeia. Calliope was designed to cruise over long distances at economical cruising speeds. At her top speed of 16 knots, she burns 160 gallons of fuel per hour.
When the throttles are pulled back to 14 knots, the fuel burn drops to 100 gallons per hour. At 11 or 12 knots, Calliope burns about 50 gallons per hour. Charter clients who are interested in cruising at a slower pace thus benet nancially, as does the environment, thanks to Calliopes environmentally conscious construction. Ten guests, nine crew, weekly base rate $160,000. Contact: Barbara Dawson at Camper and Nicholsons International, +1 561 655 2121, bd@pal.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com.
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IWC. Engineered for men.
Hello up there! Ingenieur Double Chronograph Titanium. Ref. 3765: Nothing can stop a man even when hes clinging to a sheer cliff face whos determined to get to the top, apart from the weight dragging him back down again. A titanium case lightens the load. The Ingenieur Double Chronograph Titanium strikes an ideal balance between maximum comfort and features that will quicken the pulse of any man of action: a mechanical split-seconds chronograph, ultra light design and vulcanised rubber highlights. It scales new heights in aesthetic perfection. IWC. Engineered for men.
Mechanical chronograph movement | Self-winding | 44-hour power reserve when fully wound | Date and day display | Small hacking seconds | Splitseconds hand for intermediate timing | Screw-in crown | Sapphire glass, antireflective coating on both sides | Water-resistant 12 bar | Case height 16 mm | Diameter 45 mm
Top charter yachts | Best slow-pace yachts
The 205/62.5m Baton Rouge is an industry favorite
Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge is a 205/62.5m Icon that launched in 2010 and quickly became one of the most buzzedabout megayachts in the Mediterranean. Her interior dcor is lled with a rich mixture of dark and light woods and fabrics, creating an ambiance that is at once comfortable and elegant. Her look is both classic and contemporary, making her a favorite among industry insiders. Her onboard amenities, too, are noteworthy. Baton Rouge offers charter guests no fewer than ve decks lled with spaces that can be enjoyed while the yacht cruises at 12 to 14 knots. There is a teak beach club
at water level aft, a large observation lounge that overlooks the bow forward, an oversized hot tub with swimming jets, and a sundeck that has a built-in sound and light system for use as a discotheque during parties both at the dock and under way. When guests are ready to move through the water a bit faster, they can enjoy the plethora of WaveRunners, Jet Skis, and SeaBobs that Baton Rouge carries for fun in the sun. 12 guests, 16 crew, weekly base rate 420,000. Contact: Tom Collins at Burgess, +1 305 672 0150, tcollins@burgessyachts.com, www.burgessyachts.com.
Turquoise
The 1817/55.4m Turquoise launched from the Proteksan-Turquoise shipyard in 2001, showing the Turkish builders continuing march toward excellence in construction and styling. Her cruising speed is 12 knots. 12 guests, 13 crew, weekly base rate 275,000. Contact: Liz Howard at Fraser Yachts Worldwide, +1 619 225 0588, sandiego@fraseryachts.com, www.fraseryachts.com.
Oasis
At 1941/59.4m, the Lrssen Oasis is an impressive megayacht with a cruising speed of 12 knots. She was ret in 2010 and given a new dcor described as relaxed country house, albeit one with an air-conditioned gymnasium that converts into a discotheque. 12 guests, 15 crew, weekly base rate 325,000. Contact: Carly Sutton at YCO Yacht, +377 93 50 12 12, carly.s@ycoyacht.com, www.ycoyacht.com.
Reverie
The 230/70.1m Benetti Reverie is one of the largest-capacity yachts available for charter, taking 12 guests in accommodations that are designed to be comfortable for twice as many people. Her six decks include one that is mostly dedicated to the master suite, with panoramic views for the primary charter guest to enjoy as the yacht cruises at 12 to 14 knots. 12 guests, 27 crew, weekly base rate 550,000. Contact: James Graham-Cloete at Ocean The Sycara V is well equipped for relaxed entertaining Independence, +44 1273 831 010, james@ocyachts.com, www.oceanindependence.com.
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FRENCH ELEGANCE AT SEA
Pa Ri s
c hE RB o U RG
ca nnE s
a B U D ha B i
Photographie Guillaume Plisson
Top charter yachts | Best gaming yachts
Best gaming yachts

Four Aces
The name says it all aboard the 1836/56m Benetti Four Aces, whose owner is involved in the gaming industry. Unlike most megayacht transoms, which feature only the boats name, Four Aces boasts a decorative display that looks like fanned-out cards. Charter clients who step onboard via the drop-down swim platform will instantly be in the mood for a game of Texas Hold Em or five-card stud. Four Aces also features a split-level master suite that will make the primary charter client feel like a serious high roller. On one level are the sleeping area, sitting area, and his-and-her bathrooms, while a private gymnasium is up several steps in a space that overlooks the yachts bow. A door from the gymnasium leads to the outdoor decks, allowing crew to serve guests in the gym without disturbing anyone who is still sleeping in the masters king-size bed. 12 guests, 14 crew, weekly base rate $240,000. Contact: Katie Wray at International Yacht Collection, +1 888 213 7577 kwray@iyc.com, www.iyc.com. ,
Credit: Laurent Benoit and Jim Raycroft
The 183/56m megayacht Four Aces is the perfect choice for high rollers
Guests can enjoy the game cube after theyve had their fill of contemporary art, which Snowbird displays in a quantity that is unusual for a charter yacht of any size. Colorful, limited-edition prints adorning the walls include works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Damien Hurst, Willem de Kooning, Ellsworth Kelly, Frank Stella, and Robert Motherwell.
gentlemens club where million-dollar wagers are made with the trust of a handshake. The sky lounge aboard Blue Moon includes a gamingsize table with classics such as chess, which can be enjoyed with glass doors to the exterior deck either opened or closed. Also aboard Blue Moon is an observatory that looks out over the hot tub and sunpads on the yachts top deck. It offers a couple of chairs and a small table that is ideal for playing cards, and the location is absolutely spectacular, with a floor-to-ceiling window that is designed to vanish from view.
Snowbird
While many people think of gaming in terms of poker, slot machines, and craps tables, the 128/39m Hakvoort Snowbird takes a more family-friendly approach. The sky lounge furniture includes a game cube that is the size of a cocktail table, with each side crafted of leather in the style of traditional board games for all ages. The cube took four months to build at the Geoffrey Parker Co. in London and features everything from backgammon to Monopoly to Scrabble. Ten guests, six crew, weekly base rate 140,000. Contact: Christopher Craven at Edmiston Company, +377 93 30 54 44, cec@edmistoncompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
Blue Moon
Blue Moon is a 198/60.3m Feadship that epitomizes elegance. Her interior is bedecked in fine fabrics and leather along with rich cherry woodwork, creating the feeling of an exclusive 12 guests, 14 to 16 crew, weekly base rate $395,000. Contact June Montagne at Northrop and Johnson, +1 954 522 3344, june.montagne@northropandjohnson. com, www.northropandjohnson.com.
Above and right: The elegant 198/60.3m Blue Moon with its cherry woodwork and gentlemans club feel makes the perfect venue for an evening of card games
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YCCS MARINA VIRGIN GORDA

British Virgin Islands
The Clubhouse will open in December 2011.
A new state-of-the-art marina in the Caribbeans safest deep water natural harbor
YCCS Marina Virgin Gorda boasts 38 slips for yachts up to 100 meters in length and a draft of 9 meters, with
YCCS Marina, Virgin Gorda 18 29 30.40 N - 64 2131.48 W
superior amenities and services. Yacht owners and guests have access to Biras Creek Resort facilities including fine dining, a spa and wellness centre and beach and sports activities. Extensive on-board provisioning services are available as well as crew facilities and on-site custom clearance. The YCCS Marina is protected from
To inquire about dock reservations please emaildockmaster@yccsmarina.com or call +1(284) 346-2000
prevailing winds, ocean swells and is free of surge: an ideal base for cruising the Virgin Islands and the great arc of the Leeward and Windward Islands. St. Barths, St. Martin, Antigua and Montserrat are only a few of the destinations a short distance away.
www.yccsmarina.com | www.oilnutbay.com | www.biras.com
Top charter yachts | Best gaming yachts
Above and below: The opulent 128/39m Snowbird offers entertainment for all the family
Yogi
The enclosed lounge on the sundeck aboard the 1976/60.2m Proteksan-Turquoise Yogi features a dedicated video gaming system. The owner designed the space for his children to enjoy, but made sure to include games that would appeal to adults as well. 12 guests, 15 crew, weekly base rate 357 ,000. Contact: Craig Cohen at Burgess, +1 212 223 0410, ccohen@burgessyachts.com, www.burgessyachts.com.
Glaze
Tables on both the sundeck and Portuguese bridge are ideal for playing card games aboard the 161/49.1m Trinity Glaze, which just completed an extensive ret in preparation for the 2011-12 charter seasons.
Candyscape II
The 202/61.8m Candyscape II, launched by Viareggio Super Yacht in 2009, continues to win accolades for an onboard design that includes guest seating for gameplayers in the sun and shade on three different decks. 12 guests, 14 crew, weekly base rate 345,000.
12 guests, nine crew, weekly base rate 180,000. Contact Fiona Maureso at YPI Charter, +33 4 93 34 01 00, ona.maureso@ypigroup.com, www.ypigroup.com.
Contact: Nick Burleigh at Edmiston and Company, +44 20 7495 5151, nb@edmistoncompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
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Top Charter Yacht | Xxxxxxxxx Top charter yachts | Best yachts for music lovers
Above and below: The 159/48.7m Cyan boasts a baby grand piano and one of the best sound systems aboard any charter yacht
Best yachts for music lovers

Cyan
The 159/48.7m Codecasa Cyan is a 1997 build that was extensively refit in 2008 to create, among other things, one of the most impressive sound systems aboard any charter yacht. While many yachts offer surround-sound entertainment, Cyan offers that plus outdoor speakers so large theyre typically used to provide thumping baselines at discotheques onshore. The volume can be turned up to make cocktail parties aboard Cyan extend the entire length of any marina quay. Inside, Cyan offers the best of modern and traditional amenities for music lovers. There are iPod docking stations throughout the guest areas, as well as Apple TV and satellite television for enjoying concerts in a visual format. In addition, a baby grand piano is onboard for anyone who is practiced at tickling the ivories. 12 guests, 11 crew, weekly base rate 161,000. Contact: John Cichanowicz at Burgess, +1 305 672 0150, jcichanowicz@burgessyachts.com, www.burgessyachts.com. The music-lovers experience continues inside then look no further than the 197/60m Lrssen Solemates. The entire amidships section of her sundeck converts into a discotheque whose sound and laser systems are connected, creating a concertquality experience worthy of todays biggest names in music. Its no wonder that some of the first guests ever to charter Solemates included moguls whose songs have gone platinum many times over, and who wanted to celebrate in high style. 12 guests, 15 crew, weekly base rate 395,000. Contact Rupert Connor at Luxury Yacht Group, +1 954 525 9959, rc@luxyachts.com, www.luxyachts.com. indulging in the master suites massive whirlpool tub, which is crafted exquisitely of cappuccino onyx and mosaic tile.
Idol
Idol is a 193/59m motoryacht that was originally built as a floating beach house in 2007. Her current owner gave her a spectacular interior refit to turn her into a contemporary showpiece of minimalism in 2010. She is now decked out in crisp whites, bright and polished
Solemates
If your idea of enjoying music includes shaking your bootie with a light show into the wee hours,
Solemates, where guests can use iPads to control everything from the sound system to the movie and television selections. Thats true even if youre
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Top charter yachts | Best yachts for music lovers
Left and below: The 197/60m Solemates comes complete with its own disco and cinema room
silvers, and soothing grays, with guest-use iPads and custom-designed iPod docking stations that blend seamlessly into the new dcor. The new interior vibe aboard Idol makes her a blank canvas for creating any ambiance through music that charter clients desire. Whereas other charter yachts have dcors that set the tone for each day, Idol offers an environment guests can ll with sound and make their own. 12 guests, 14 crew, weekly base rate 345,000. Contact Nick Burleigh at Edmiston and Company, +44 20 7495 5151, nb@edmistoncompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com
St Ekaterina
The Apple entertainment system aboard the 196/60m Benetti St Ekaterina is among the most substantial ever placed aboard a charter yacht of any size. Music lovers will enjoy not only the onboard library of tunes, but also the ability to connect their own devices into the system. 12 guests, 17 crew, weekly base rate 240,000. Contact Molly Browne at Camper and Nicholsons International, +44 20 7009 1950, mb@lon.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com
stations as well as an iMerge entertainment system accessible in guest areas. Theres even a waterproof remote control on the sundeck, near the hot tub. 12 guests, nine crew, weekly base rate 98,000. Contact James Graham-Cloete at Ocean Independence, +44 1273 831 010, uk@ocyachts.com, www.oceanindependence.com
360o
A modern, contemporary, and downright funky vibe is what charter guests can expect from the interior dcor aboard the 155/48m ISA 360. Add your favorite music, and the party can rage all night. Ten guests, nine crew, weekly base rate 150,000. Contact Samuel Le Gall at Neo Yachting, +33 6 73 38 25 43, samuel.legall@neoyachting.com, www.neoyachting.com
Element
The 140/44m Cantieri di Pisa Element has iPod docking
The 193/59m former houseboat Idol on the water
Daytime fun aboard Solemates
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VILLA LAS TRONAS

H O T E L & S P A
A delightful ve-star resort, Villa Las Tronas has become the landmark of Alghero, the golden door to tourism on Sardinia located on the sun-drenched Mediterranean islands northwest, Riviera del Corallo coast. Once the seaside holiday residence of Italian royalty, Las Tronas exudes the tradition, charm and historic ambience of the aristocratic buen retiro, while offering modern comforts and facilities. Perched on a promontory right on the sea, and surrounded by over two hectares of private park, the hotel envelops guests with the soothing magic of its location, from the crashing of the waves and gentle lapping of the surf, to clean salty air and refreshing breezes. Enjoy warm, attentive service, delicious cuisine, a luxurious on-site spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a pet-friendly policy. At Las Tronas, youll feel like a treasured, personal guest in a remarkably rened home.
TOP SUITE: EXECUTIVE SUITE

Square footage: 1,023, plus 538 of outdoor space Nightly rate: 1300 to 2100 (about $1,810 to $2,920) Number of rooms in suite: Two bedrooms Number of entrances to suite: Two Number of baths: Two, each en-suite with bath and separate shower Suite style: Generously proportioned and lavishly appointed, the suite features high ceilings, exquisite contemporary furnishings, priceless antiques and original works of art. Key selling points: Enjoy spectacular open views to the sea from two double bedrooms, a spacious lounge area and a glorious terrace with Jacuzzi. In addition to supreme comfort and charm, youll nd every modern amenity at your ngertips, including an iPod docking station, PlayStation and widescreen Apple computer. Number of suites in hotel: Seven
SPA & FITNESS

With a covered, seawater swimming pool overlooking the Mediterranean, sauna, Turkish bath, Kneipp walkway, gym and beauty area, the Spa Villa Las Tronas is open throughout the year. This haven of tranquility offers an impressive list of beauty and holistic treatments for in-house guests.
TOP RESTAURANT
Restaurant Villa Las Tronas: Dining here is a real experience. Indoors, sumptuous cuisine is served by candlelight and accompanied by live classical music. For an equally delightful, less formal ambience, opt for the panoramic terrace close by.
SPECIAL SERVICES
Your pet dogs are always welcome at Villa Las Tronas, and there are over two hectares of private park for them to explore.
AFFILIATION
Cond Nast Johansens
Location: Lungomare Valencia 1, Alghero, Sardinia, Italy VIP Contact: Reservation Manager Piero Dore Phone: 39-079-981818; Fax: 39-079-981044 Email: info@hotelvillalastronas.it Website: www.hotelvillalastronas.com
Top charter yachts | Best deep-sea shing yachts
Credit: Jim Raycroft and John Rowe
Above and left: After a day chasing game, kick back on one of the 135/41.1m Atlanticas spacious decks
Best deep-sea shing yachts

Mea Culpa
There are luxury sportshing yachts, and there are luxury megayachts, but rarely are the two styles combined into one. Thats what makes the 129/39.6m McMullen and Wing Mea Culpa so special. She offers the best of both worlds to charter clients who want to enjoy serious shing along with onboard comforts in the style of a proper gentlemens club. Mea Culpa was built for a self-proclaimed shing fanatic who wanted a tuna tower built atop the yachts otherwise classic sundeck design. Guests can sh from the ghting chair in the cockpit or from the 18/5.5m Whaler tender that can access shallower
waters. About 70 different styles of shing rods and reels are available to guests, including some that were in use when the yachts guests landed a 450-pound black marlin off the coast of Panama. Guests who just want to relax onboard will enjoy the yachts zero-speed stabilizers, a must-have for being comfortable as Mea Culpa is cruising toward the shing canyons at speeds as fast as 20 knots. Eight guests, six crew, weekly base rate $120,000. Contact Suzette McLaughlin at Camper and Nicholsons International, +1 561 655 2121, sm@pal.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com.
in 2007. She offers an exceptional number of tenders and toys, including a 37/11.3m Intrepid center console stocked with rods and reels from leading companies such as Shimano and Fin-Nor. Avid sh hunters will also nd 30-, 50-, and 80-pound line as well as a pair of Rob Allen spear guns. Charter clients who arent interested in shing can enjoy SuRis other tenders and toys, which include a speedboat, a landing craft, a hovercraft, a Hobie Cat sailboat, rowboats, paddleboards, Sea-Doos, and Jet Skis (and thats not even mentioning the land toys like ATVs and motorbikes that SuRi carries. Ten or 12 guests, 10 crew, weekly base rate
SuRi
SuRi is a 173/53.2m expedition vessel that was built by Halter Marine in 1978 and ret into a luxury yacht
$225,000. Contact Allan Jouning at 37 South, +64 9 302 0178, charter@37south.co.nz, www.37south.co.nz.
The 173/53.2m SuRi offers guests an impressive choice of tenders and toys
Credit: Camper & Nicholsons International
Serious shing on the stylish 129/39m Mea Culpa
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Top charter yachts | Best deep-sea shing yachts
Credit: Marc Paris
Guests of the 154/46.9m Ohana can charter its 82/25.2m sportsshing yacht, Lady Lila
Ohana
Ohana is a 154/46.9m Admiral Marine build that offers not one, but two sportshing yachts that clients can charter in tandem with the megayacht herself. The tender that Ohana regularly tows is a 37/11.3m Intrepid center console, which is one of the most popular designs for shing and watersports in the global marine industry. Also available to Ohanas charter clients in some locations is the 82/25.2m sportshing yacht Lady Lila, which has not one, but two ghting chairs along with plenty of serious equipment for anglers. Thus, while some charter clients can hold a minishing tournament aboard the two tenders, the rest of the guests can enjoy all of the traditional amenities aboard Ohana herself, including one of the largest
sundecks among charter yachts in her class. Ten guests, 10 crew, weekly base rate $130,000. Contact Ann Landry at Northrop and Johnson, +1 954 761 3237 ann.landry@northropandjohnson.com, , www.northropandjohnson.com.
Seawolf
Seawolf is a 193/58m expedition motoryacht that is built to go anywhere that big game tries to hide. She carries multiple tenders and plenty of shing gear, and she offers such amenities as a 28/8.6m Herreshoff sailboat for relaxation when the days sh-ghting is done. 12 guests, 14 crew, weekly base rate $180,000. Contact Jan Henry at Fraser Yachts Worldwide, +1 954 712 7124, jan.henry@fraseryachts.com, www.fraseryachts.com.
Atlantica
The owner of the 135/41.1m Christensen Atlantica is an avid sherman, and he always has a captain and crew at the ready to chase big game. Atlantica tows a 37/11.3m Intrepid tender and even offers adventurethemed charters designed for children who want to join the shing action.
Atmosphere
12 guests, eight crew, weekly base rate $110,000. Contact Leann Morris Pliske at International Yacht Collection, +1 888 213 7577 lpliske@iyc.com, , www.iyc.com. The 150/45.7m expedition motoryacht Atmosphere regularly charters in Patagonia, where shing is just one of the encounters with nature that guests can enjoy. The yachts tenders include ve jet boats and 36 shing skiffs, plus a pair of helicopters for getting to even more remote grounds. Below and right: The 193/58m Seawolf is perfect for big game shing 28 guests, 32 crew, weekly base rate 195,000. Contact Gayle Patterson at Edmiston and Company, +377 93 30 54 44, gp@edmistoncompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
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Top charter yachts | Best Bahamas yachts
The 112/34.1m True North offers compact luxury
Best Bahamas yachts

At Last
The 145/44.2m Heesen At Last has operated in the Bahamas for several seasons, giving her captain and crew impressive local knowledge and the ability to offer various charter itineraries depending on guests desires. She is a yacht that seems custom-built for the skinny waters of the Bahamas, too, with engines connected to water jets that let her access shallow areas that are off-limits to megayachts with deeperdraft propellers. Even better, the 1990 build recently completed a two-year ret and now boasts a sparkling new, traditional interior dcor by longtime designer Claudette Bonville. Outside spaces include a
Credit: Jim Raycroft
sundeck that features a hot tub, barbecue grill, and lounges for soaking up the sunshine. 11 guests, eight crew, weekly base rate $110,000. Contact Maggie Vale at Churchill Yacht Partners, +1 954 761 3237, maggie@rikkidavis.com, www.churchillyachts.com.
longtime charter Captain K.C. Cauleld, who has spent much of his life on the waters of the Bahamas and Virgin Islands. The current owner plans to keep True North in Florida and the Bahamas year-round, which means there is now charter availability during both the winter and summer seasons. Itineraries in the Bahamas can include round-trip charters from Nassau or one-way explorations or archipelagos such as the Exumas to the citys south. Eight guests, four or ve crew, weekly base rate $49,500. Contact Crom Littlejohn at Merle Wood & Associates, +1 954 525 5111, clittlejohn@merlewood.com, www.merlewood.com.
True North
The 112/34.1m Westport True North is a 2006 build that was little used by her original owner, and that rst became available for charter in 2010, still looking nearly as perfect as she did when she originally launched from the shipyard. That owner quickly sold her after little usage, though, and a new owner took possession in time for the summer 2011 charter season. He kept the name True North as well as
Above and right: The 145/44.2m At Last is well equipped for fun and relaxation
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Top charter yachts | Best Bahamas yachts
La Dea
Few go-fast motoryachts are typically available in the Bahamas, which is why the 116/35.5m Azimut La Dea is such a noteworthy charter option. She is a sleek Italian design capable of achieving a top speed of 22 knots. Even her cruising speed of about 18 knots is far faster than traditional motoryachts in her size range can offer. Charter clients aboard La Dea will spend far less time cruising from one waypoint to the next, and far more time enjoying the best of what each itinerary stop has to offer. La Dea also comes fully stocked with watersports equipment to make the most of the Bahamas as an aquamarine playground. Charter guests can choose among sea kayaks, a Jet Ski, water skis, doughnuts and other tow toys, snorkeling equipment, and scuba-diving gear. 11 guests, seven crew, weekly base rate 72,000. Contact Diana Meza at OceanStyle, +1 305 672 9400, dmeza@osyachting.com, www.osyachting.com. Eight guests, four crew, weekly base rate $42,500. Contact Barbara Stork at International Yacht Collection, +1 888 213 7577 bstork@iyc.com, www.iyc.com. , +1 305 672 0150, sosterman@burgessyachts.com, www.burgessyachts.com.
The 116/35.5m La Dea achieves a top speed of 22 knots
Mary Alice II Necker Belle

Sir Richard Branson regularly makes his 105/32m sailing catamaran Necker Belle available for charter in the Bahamas, where guests can enjoy the recent interior refit that won the yacht several awards and international accolades. Ten guests, six crew, weekly base rate $100,000. Eight to 12 guests, seven crew, weekly base rate $100,000. Contact Summer Osterman at Burgess, Contact Ami Ira at Crew Unlimited Yacht Charters, +1 954 653 0569, ami@cuyc.com, www.cuyc.com. The 130/40m Westport Mary Alice II is based in South Florida and offers charters there and in the Bahamas year-round. She tows a 34/10.4m Regulator tender that makes getting around in the Bahamas a breeze.
Hooter Patrol IV
The 98/29.5m Hargrave Hooter Patrol IV packs a lot of watersports muscle into her towed tendera 37/11.3m Midnight Express whose usage is included in the weekly charter rate in the Bahamas.
The stylish modern deck onboard La Dea
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This Christmas, watch more than three ships go sailing by.
Where to spend Christmas and New Year? Its the question that comes around every year. Well, this year, why not celebrate in an altogether different, very special way? The Caribbean, Bahamas or Indian Ocean? Wherever you choose, youll be immersed in supreme onboard luxury, with impeccable service and your every whim catered for not to mention all the facilities and toys at your disposal. Yacht Masters is a small, privately owned, bespoke brokerage, offering a truly private and discreet service for the more discerning client. Were renowned for our traditional face-to-face service born of old school, British values that reflect the nature of our premium offering. Among the wide range of yachts available for charter, well find the one that best suits your needs and desires. So, pick up the phone and give us a call. Well help you decide and happily arrange everything, to ensure that you have a Christmas and New Year to remember; set against a backdrop of blue skies and white sand not grey clouds and snow.
+44 (0) 207 099 0941 www.yachtmasters.com
Onboard | The British II & the Adriatic coast MaryJean Virgin Islands
Little Dix Bay on the west coast of Virgin Gorda boasts pristine white sand and crystal clear water
grounds
With a balmy climate, steady easterly trade winds and an abundance of sheltered anchorages, some of the finest ports and anchorages in the Caribbean. the US and British Virgin Islands were made for the waterborne. This ten-day cruise steers you to
By MiriaM Cain
Virgin cruising
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Onboard | The British Virgin Islands
A fragmented jigsaw of green isles lying in the northern Caribbean, the Virgin Islands have long been a yachtsmans haven. Discovered by Columbus in 1493, throughout the centuries the Virgin Islands have attracted everyone from pirates to opportunist Europeans, but today they attract a more sophisticated type of seafarer. The archipelago of over 60 islands and islets is split between the cosmopolitan US Virgin Islands and the neighboring and relatively unspoilt British Virgin Islands. The former are known for their bustling activity, whilst the latter exude a low-key ambiance and get-away-from-it-all feel. Throughout the islands, coral reefs and stunning beaches provide every opportunity for all manner of watersports, from snorkeling to sea kayaking and sailing. Furthermore, abundant fish in these waters make them ideal for sports-fishing enthusiasts. On land, there are also ample opportunities for golf, tennis, hiking and horseriding. to Virgin Gorda to the far west of the British Virgin Islands, the scenic channel is surrounded by hilly green islands and islets, many of which are uninhabited. The archipelago is a canvas of natural beauty leavened with an enticing mix of old-world charm and modern facilities to lure luxury travelers. The must-visit stops include the mountainous island of Tortola and the beach party island of Jost Van Dyke. But in between these lie many more compelling isles; Norman Island, Virgin Gorda and Peter Island, to name but a few. The British Virgin Islands make the perfect destination for honeymooning couples
Itinerary
Day 1: Tortola
The largest island in the British Virgin Islands, Tortola is the ideal place to embark on your charter and begin your cruise. Board in Road Town at the Village Cay Marina and spend a few hours onboard before jumping into the tender and taking a refreshing dip in the waters around Cane Garden Bay. This long stretch of white sand is the most popular in the British Virgin Islands and is great for people watching. For those wishing to venture inland, the best hiking is through Sage Mountain National Park.
British Virgin Islands
Distances between the islands in the British Virgin Islands are short and provide the perfect cruising grounds for first-time charterers or family charters. Lying at the centre of the archipelago, the most popular cruising area is the Sir Francis Drake channel. Stretching east from St John, in the US Virgin Islands,
Lady Britt
Length | 2068/63m Guests | 12 Rate | From 445,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Christopher Craven at Edmiston and Company, +377 93 30 54 44, cec@edmistonompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
Icon
Length | 205/62.5m Guests | 12 Rate | From US$475,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Agnes Howard at Camper & Nicholsons International, +1 954 524 4250, ah@ftl.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com.
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Half of Peter Island is devoted to its yacht club
The British Virgin Islands have several dive sites that are amongst the most celebrated in the Caribbean. One such site is the sunken 270/82m Chikuzen lying just off Tortola. The steel-hulled ship sank off the islands east coast and is now home to an array of tropical fish, including yellowtail, barracuda, black-tip sharks and drum fish.
as Jamaican jerk chicken, conch and flying fish. Beachside shacks also offer a taste of the Caribbean in a casual setting, and Tortola is home to a handful of quintessentially Caribbean beach bars including Pussers, Quitos Gazebo and the Bomba Surfside Shack. The latter is known for its riotous all-night full moon parties.
Resort (+ 284 495 200), take a dip in Dead Mans Bay, or take the tender across to Dead Chest Island. Reputedly the origin of the sea shanty Fifteen men on the dead mans chestyo ho ho, and a bottle of rum, Dead Chest Island is said to have earned its name after the infamous pirate Blackbeard left several of his crew there with nothing except a bottle of rum as punishment. A few tried to unsuccessfully swim to Peter Island across the bay that became known as Dead Mans Bay.
Recommended restaurants
The British Virgin Islands are not known for fine dining opportunities, but there are a few notable exceptions. Fresh seafood dishes and an influence of French cuisine can be found at a number of resorts. On Tortola, there are several good restaurants serving up native specialties, such
Day 2: Tortola to Peter Island (9 nautical miles)

Cruise across the channel to Great Harbour on Peter Island and step ashore to take scenic walks to private beaches. Half the island is devoted to the yacht club, whilst the other half is deserted. Indulge in a Cast Away Facial at the Peter Island
Day 3: Peter Island to Norman Island (3 nautical miles)

Neighboring Norman Island is said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevensons Treasure
Sea Force One

Length | 1766/53.8m Guests | 12 Rate | From 280,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Adelheid Chirco at Ocean Independence, +49 211 355 5444, adelheid@ocyachts.com, www.oceanindependence.com.
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Island. Reputed to be the site of buried treasure from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora, the islands waters are the perfect spot for an afternoon of watersports. Lying just off Norman Island, The Indians are a dramatic reef and rocky outcrop, resembling an Indian headdress and providing superb snorkeling. Later on in the early evening, your crew can organize a treasure hunt ashore for the children, whilst the adults step aboard the notorious Willy T schooner, which is anchored just off the island, for dinner and dancing. Contact: Manager Ewan Anderson, VHF Channels 16 or 74, +284 496 8603, willyt09@surfbvi.com; www.williamthornton.com.
Day 4: Norman Island to Salt Island to Ginger Island (8 nautical miles)

From Norman Island, cruise to Salt Island and discover one of the most famous dive sites in the Caribbean: HMS Rhone. Lying just off Salt Island, this Royal Mail steamer went down in 1867. Further on, the brilliant coral wall known as Alice in Wonderland at nearby Ginger Island slopes from 12 meters (40) to a sandy bottom at 30 meters (98). The diving here is often referred to as a fantasy due to its vibrant colors and huge coral formations.
Drake Channel to Virgin Gorda. Reclining to the east of the British Virgin Island chain, the island is the third largest in the group. One thing you must do is dive into The Baths on the southwest coast. These are a series of seawater pools shaded by giant granite boulders. With their colorful fish and coral, they are a delight to discover by snorkeling or sea kayak. Close to The Baths is Spring Bay with a white sandy beach and some of the islands clearest waters. A lawn sweeping down to the beach is great for picnics, and its small coves are ideal for afternoon snorkeling expeditions. Also nearby is Devils Bay Beach, accessed only by water or by walking The Baths trails. Think deep blue waters, pure white sand and clear skies.
Day 5: Ginger Island to The Baths, Virgin Gorda (3 nautical miles)

After your fill of diving, cruise through the Sir Francis
Credit: Nicolas Claris
Calliope
Length | 1388/42.28m Guests | 10 Rate | From US$160,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Agnes Howard at Camper & Nicholsons International, +1 954 524 4250, ah@ftl. cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com.
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Little Dix Bay makes the perfect place for snorkeling
Cruise around and anchor off the reef and snorkel in Little Dix Bay on the west coast. Late afternoons in the Caribbean are all about relaxing so head to the spa at Little Dix Bay for a massage. The spa is set on the hillside with panoramic views over Virgin Gorda. The treatments draw on the islands indigenous plants and the ancient therapeutic practices of the Carib Indians. Try the Goat Milk and Honey Wrap. Contact: Rosewood Little Dix Bays Spa Manager, Christine Parillon, +284 495 5555, christine.parillon@rosewoodhotels.com. Those wishing to explore the island on land can head to discover fascinating Spanish fortress ruins
at Little Fort National Park. There are also National Parks at Gorda Peak, Devils Bay, Spring Bay and North Sound.
Day 6: Days 6 & 7 Little Dix Bay and North Sounds, Virgin Gorda (5 nautical miles)
Around the headland of Blowing Point is a beautiful arc of secluded sand and the perfect spot for the crew to prepare you a picnic on the beach. However, there are also plenty of other beautiful beaches. Savannah Bay Beach on the west coast is one particularly beautiful stretch of secluded sand, and just north of this is also Mahoe Bay Beach with its picturesque reefs, vivid blue waters and tropical landscape. Spend the night anchored in the sheltered waters in the North Sound. Activities abound here, from
The aptly named Top of the Baths restaurant has an American-inspired menu, great views and the islands famous Painkiller cocktails. If you are on Virgin Gorda on a Sunday, dont miss the weekly barbecue and live steel bands for a rousing dose of Caribbean cheer. Contact: Restaurant Manager Norman Henderson, +284 495 5497, www.topofbaths.com.
Dream
Length | 170/51.82m Guests | 12 Rate | Please enquire for rate Contact | Charter Broker Jan Henry at Fraser Yachts Worldwide, +1 954 522 3344, jan.henry@fraseryachts.com, www.fraseryachts.com.
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CAST
OFF YOUR INHIBITIONS
Unspoilt Caribbean paradise. Unforgettable relaxation. Uncompromising luxury.

60 sand-fringed islands, scattered across the turquoise water yet close enough to navigate by sight. Tender trade winds and deep water harbors make it simple to claim your own stretch of paradise on one of the many deserted beaches. A typical day out can offer swimming with stingrays and turtles at Anegadas Loblolly Bay, bathing in the sunlit grottoes of Virgin Gorda and diving the Rhone, probably the most romantic shipwreck in the Caribbean. As you hop from island to island, a picture of contrasts emerges. Whether discovering vibrant coral reefs, sailing, fishing or simply lazing on a beach, the British Virgin Islands provide havens of peace and tranquility youll barely have to share with anyone else.
Visit www.bvitourism.com or Call 1.800.835.8530
Discover private beaches on Peter Island
snorkeling the reefs off St Eustacia to water skiing to testing your skills in small boat sailing at the Bitter End Yacht Club. Contact: Sailing School Director, Jerome Rand, +284 494 2746, watersports@beyc.com.
Known for its elegant, international cuisine, Biras Creek is an open-air restaurant on the northern tip of the island overlooking North Sound, or for a truly memorable evening, book a table at Saba Rock. Its over-water lounge is a romantic setting, and live music and dancing all go to make it one of the islands finest dining experiences. Also recommended is the little courtyard restaurant of The Bath & Turtle in Spanish Town, which serves up fantastic fish and chips (+284 495 5239). For those looking for more traditional dishes, Chez Bamboo in Spanish Town is a gem for Cajun and Creole cuisine. Put in your order for the likes of bouillabaisse and chocolate bourbon mint cake, (+284 495 5752).
Day 7: Virgin Gorda to Guana Island (9 nautical miles)

After three days exploring Virgin Gorda, depart and cruise to nearby Guana Island. An interesting spot to visit, the island has a wildlife sanctuary with some of the richest collections of plants and animal species to be found in the Caribbean. Anchor off White Bay Beach and take the tender ashore to this stretch of white powder sand for a picnic lunch. From here, you can walk to six further secluded beaches, or hike the islands scenic nature trails.
Only accessible by boat, the Bitter End Yacht Club has a seafaring tradition combined with glamour. The resort has two restaurants and bars, an English-style pub, boutiques and a spa. Rendezvous with fellow seafarers at the clubhouse for lobster and fresh fish, or try some of the local West Indian dishes. Contact: Restaurant Manager Marielle Arneaud, +284 494 2746, marneaud@beyc.com, www.beyc.com.
Day 8: Guana Island to Jost Van Dyke (6 nautical miles)

The neighboring sandy island of Jost Van Dyke is the last stop on your itinerary. The British Virgin Islands are
Mondango
Length | 1697/51.7m Guests | 10 Rate | From 185,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Christopher Craven at Edmiston and Company, +377 93 30 54 44, cec@edmistoncompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
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famed for their beaches, the best of which is said to be White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. An immaculate crescent of ivory sand, the beach has a reef lying just offshore running nearly the full length of the beach. Blessed with calm waters, perfect for children to swim in, the reef has a convenient break providing access to the shore by tender. Jost Van Dyke is one of the liveliest islands in the British Virgin Islands, and as such there are several quintessential Caribbean classic restaurants and bars in Great Harbour and White Bay. Swim to the Soggy Dollar Bar on White Bay. The essence of the Caribbean, the bar was aptly named
when it opened as access was by water only, and it is where the Painkiller cocktail, the British Virgin Islands signature drink, was first created. The trademark cocktail is made of rum, orange juice, pineapple and cream of coconut. Contact: General Manager Tina Chinnery +284 495 9888, relax@soggydollar.com, www.soggydollar.com. In early evening, the place to be for a drink is Ivans Stress Free Bar where you can sway along to reggae tunes and tuck into a delicious feast of lobster, (+340 513 1095), then celebrate your final evening with a Painkiller cocktail at the infamous Foxys making the perfect toast to an excellent cruise (+284 495 9258).
Day 10: Jost Van Dyke to Tortola (4 nautical miles)

For those disembarking in the British Virgin Islands, your itinerary finishes in Tortola. For those traveling from the US, you can join your charter yacht from St Thomas Airport in the US Virgin Islands and cruise the short distance to the British Virgin Islands, taking in St John along the way. Those traveling from Europe can fly to Antigua and take a flight connection to Tortola and embark in the port at Road Town, the islands capital.
The yachts featured are just a selection of what is available in the Virgin Islands this winter season.
Necker Belle
Length | 1041/32m Guests | 10 Rate | From US$100,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Tom Collins at Burgess, +1 305 672 0150, tcollins@burgessyachts.com, www.burgessyachts.com.
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Lifestyle | Hurricane Run
Pedigree
As owners of champion racehorses, the couple who commissioned Hurricane Run know all about speed the champion racehorse, was launched in 2009 and certainly boasts elite breeding.
BY MiriaM Cain YaCht photographY BY ED hoLt
and pedigree. Their resulting Feadship, named after
filly
Hurricane Run combines contemporary styling, clean lines and the latest technology
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Being the third sister ship in a family whose bloodline is studded with yachting greatsHigh Chaparral and Thunder Gulch among themHurricane Run was always odds on to win in the style stakes.
on to prove herself a rst-class charter yacht in every respect, there was no reason in the owners minds to look elsewhere to build a yacht of equal pedigree. Hurricane Runs design is bold and adventurous, with
Built by De Vries/Feadship, with naval architecture and exterior design by De Voogt Naval Architects, interior design by Terence Disdale Design, and project management by Camper & Nicholsons Alex LeesBuckley, this tri-deck motoryacht doesnt put a single one of her 175 feet wrong.
a striking monochrome interior displaying clean lines, awless curves and innovative featuresa deant departure from her sister ships. The look is clean and contemporary, with an interior featuring earthy naturals, intriguing textures and sumptuous space. Sleeping 12 guests and 13 crew, Hurricane Run
Hurricane Run is meticulously designed to complement her owners tastes and lifestyle, with everything from wall linings to lamps custom made exclusively for her. Having had a wonderful experience the rst time around with High Chaparral which went
has a gymnasium that converts to an extra cabin, a full-width upper-deck saloon, an occasional/ emergency helipad and cutting-edge media and audiovisual systems, thanks to the owners love of movies and music.
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Take in the view from Hurricane Runs spacious sun deck or enjoy a cocktail at the bar
Specifications
Length | 1755/53.5m Beam | 337/10.3m Draft | 108/3.3m Builder | Feadship Year | 2009 Staterooms | Five Guests | 12 Crew | 13 Cruising speed | 15 knots Charter grounds | Hurricane Run is available to charter in the Caribbean this season through Camper & Nicholsons International, www.camperandnicholsons.com Prices | Special winter rate US$295,000 per week Contact | Charter Broker Tandy Althoff, ta@ant.cnyachts.com, +33 492 912 912.
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Hurricane Run offers guests luxurious, yet simply styled surroundings where they can relax and enjoy a drink before dinner
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winter
Where to
the best cruising grounds for a winter charter. We ask a handful of charter brokers for their recommendations on
The island nation of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean makes the ultimate winter hideaway destination
Charter brokers | Favorite destinations
e Bahamas
Gayle Patterson, Edmiston

With more than 700 islands and over 2,400 cays to choose from, in my opinion the Bahamas are an ideal yacht charter destination. Each of the three island
The Maldives
Neil Duffy, Ocean Independence

Lying on the equator in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the island nation of the Maldives consists of over 1,000 unspoilt islands, making it the ultimate in
e Caribbean Leeward Islands to the Windward Islands

Robin OBrien, Fraser Yachts
The Southern Caribbean offers an array of quiet anchorages and quaint towns. I recommend that clients begin their charter in Antigua as there are direct ights from both the US and UK. Board your yacht in Falmouth or English Harbour and, after getting to know the yacht and crew, you can learn about Lord Nelson and the local maritime history by visiting the dockyard. In the late afternoon, anchor off Green Island and enjoy an afternoon of watersports before a rewarding sunset cocktail back onboard. After a few days exploring the Leeward island of Antigua, cruise south to the Windward Islands and the island of Guadeloupe. Step ashore to the quaint town on Deshaies or spend some time anchored off Pigeon Island and dive the Jacques Cousteau Marine Park. Cruise on to Dominca and visit Fort Shirley. Cruise up the Indian River with a local guide or visit the Carib settlement. The more adventuresome amongst the charter party can enjoy an eco-adventure tram ride through the rain forest canopy. Dominica also has great diving on the southern end of the island. From Dominica, cruise further south to St Lucia and anchor in the beautiful Marigot Bay for lunch ashore before making your way down to the Pitons, one of the most impressive anchorages in the Southern Caribbean. Dont miss: I always recommend that clients take the
chains offers something different: the northern Abacos Islands consist of their own 120-mile island chain offering a turquoise nirvana for sailors in the Sea of Abacos; the middle Bahamas and Berry Islands are renowned for sport shing; and my favorite, the Exumas, are a collection of tiny jewels set in the most beautiful topaz-colored water you could ever imagine. Water visibility can be up to 200ft, making the conditions for snorkeling and diving rst-class. Swim in the warm crystal-clear water and marvel at the spectacular marine life below: turtles, beautiful coral reefs, many wrecks and the famous Deans Blue Hole descending to an unbelievable 202 meters. Embark in Nassau, which offers a distinct blend of Vegas glamour and entertainment at the Atlantis Resort. Cruise to Allen Cay, home to the protected Bahamian iguanas, or Staniel Cay to visit the settlement of brightly colored houses, before cooling off with a snorkel around the Bond movies Thunderball Cave. If you prefer to just relax on board and delight in the superb cuisine, the Bahamas are the idyllic tropical backdrop. I recommend carefully choosing your charter yacht as the shallow waters of the Bahamas do not allow yachts with a deeper draft to cruise close to the islands. Dont miss: Take the time to cruise to Warderick Wells Cay. Step ashore and walk the nature trails and sand banks, and discover the whale skeleton on the beach, or simply jump in and snorkel around the magical reefs. Contact: Gayle Patterson is a charter broker at Edmiston, +377 93 30 54 44, gp@edmiston.com, www.edmistonyachts.com
hideaway destinations. Landing near the capital Male, a visit to the bustling sh market is a must before joining your yacht and heading off to the quiet tranquility of the atolls. The islands have the most amazing sugar-white sand beaches and the surrounding waters are clear and warm, perfect for swimming, diving and shing. There are massive lagoons with different depths and innite shades of blue and turquoise, and dazzling underwater coral gardens that host a wealth of marine life: parrotsh, turtles, manta rays and Buttery sh, to name just a few. Jump in and snorkel with whale sharks on the outer reef of the south Ari Atoll. Your captain can arrange a scenic water plane ride to spot dolphins and arrange your own private island for that Robinson Crusoe feeling and a perfect barbecue of the fresh seafood caught earlier in the day. Should you wish to venture ashore you will nd the ve-star resorts on the islands are very accommodating. At Huvafen Fushi you can learn to dive, or experience the worlds rst underwater spa. At night, some resorts have live music and there are wonderful restaurants to choose from, including the exclusive underwater dining spot on Rangali Island. Dont miss: The night sky. Without light pollution, it goes on forever. Contact: Neil Duffy is a charter broker at Ocean Independence, +1 95 45 24 93 66, neil@ocyachts.com, www.oceanindependence.com
time to visit Iles des Saintes, an archipelago of eight islands in the Windward chain. Contact: Robin OBrien is a charter broker at Fraser Yachts, + 1 95 44 63 06 00, robin.obrien@fraseryachts.com, www.fraseryachts.com
Colorful harborside life at Staniel Cay
The Maldives boast crystal-clear waters
The serene Pitons anchorage, St Lucia
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Marinas | Florida
Floribbean
Famed for its natural and unnatural attractions, the state of Florida has long been known as the Sunshine State because of its year-round balmy temperatures. The large peninsula is therefore the ideal place to berth your yacht, typically at one of the many world-class marinas in the chic cities of Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach.
BY MARINA MICI
A touch of
Fort Lauderdales popular Bahia Mar Yachting Center on the beachfront
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Marinas | Florida
Miami
Enjoy an evening cocktail at The Royal
Miami has been loved for its beaches and Art Deco style since the 1930s, but the city has come a long way since then. Today it is an icon of style. Miamis vibrant atmosphere, dazzling blue waters, ne sandy beaches, and abundance of cultural variation never seem to fade. Traditionally regarded by East Coast yachtsmen as a convenient place to winter their yachts, the season has now expanded and many now keep their yachts in Florida all year round. With average yearly temperatures hovering around 25oC and these generally complemented by a gentle sea breeze, its a nice place to be at any time. Contemporary dining at The Setai
Dining
Miamis gourmet scene is heavily inuenced by Cuban and Caribbean cuisine. For a leisurely breakfast, head to The Royal at The Raleigh Hotel for eggs over easy. The Royal is also perfect for early evening cocktails. Contact: General Manager Marcelo Mezquia, +1 305 612 1173. Later, take a leisurely lunch on the terrace at the Front Porch Caf, Ocean Drive (+1 305 531 8300). A Miami Beach institution, the Ocean Drive location of the News Caf is perfectly placed for a spot of people watching (+1 305 538 6397). For oysters and champagne, The Setai is the perfect place for an aperitif before moving on to Casa Tua for gourmet Italian cuisine. Set in a Mediterranean-style villa, the simple pasta sauces are some of the best this side of the Amal Coast. Contact: Restaurant Manager Chris Crocetti, +1 305 673 1010, ccrocetti@casatualifestyle.com. A visit to Miami would not be complete without a visit to Joes Stone Crab Restaurant (+1 305 673 0365) for a seafood feast. World-famous, the establishment has been open since 1913 and is so popular you may not get a table for more than an hour, but it is always worth the wait.
After dark
Trendy South Beach is where the it-crowd of Miami mingles with visiting VIPs and party until the early hours. Its also where you will nd locals and international visitors brushing shoulders with A-list celebrities. Once you combat the fearsome door policy, the night is all yours. From Set (Thursdays) and Mokai (Tuesdays) to The Setai (Friday night cocktail parties should not be missed), The Forge, Sky Bar at The Shore Club, there are many hot clubs, bars and restaurants to try out. A few tips for rst-timers to Miamis club scene: arrive before 11pm, and ask your captain or call ahead to gain guest list access. The Design District is coming into its own catering for locals and VIPs alike. Here you will nd swanky bars and lounges with vast cocktail menus that mimic the New York City Meatpacking District vibe. Those looking for something alternative should head to the Pawn Shop Lounge. This downtown Miami club is housed in a former pawn shop and is still adorned with antiques and retro pieces, including a classic yellow school bus which doubles as a cocktail lounge.
Sport and leisure

From sunbathing on Miami Beach to all manner of watersports, or even playing golf, Miami is all about the outdoors. Take an early morning stroll or join the joggers and soak up the view of South Beachs pastel-colored hotels as you head along the beach towards the breakwater. Take the cycle paths and boardwalks along the coast to the tip of Key Biscayne and look back at Miamis sparkling skyline. For even better city views, if you have the energy, climb the 118 steps to the top of the 1820s-built Cape Florida Lighthouse. The vantage point is a great contrast to the metropolitan madness of the city center. For those in need of a break from the city and a genuine change of scene (and scenery), two hours drive inland is the Everglades National Park. Best explored by airboat, you can quickly navigate the long grass for an up-close view of amingos, alligators and some 360 bird species.
General information
Perfectly located on the exit from the Port of Miami, Miami Beach Marina has berths for yachts over 30 meters, and 40 berths for yachts of 25-30 meters of side
Culture
Fast becoming one of the major art capitals in the world, Miami hosts the annual Art Basel Miami Beach early in December, an event that has rmly secured the city with its reputation on the contemporary art scene as the place to be seen. Creative inspiration can also be found on the streetsthe entire city in fact becomes one huge sculpture. The Art Deco district is packed with restored Art Deco hotels, whilst the galleries in the design district provide the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon browsing a wide variety of different art. Art Basel Miami Beach takes place 1-4 December 2011. For further information contact: Show Manager Maureen Bruckmayr +41 58 206 27 51, or visit www.artbaselmiamibeach.com.
The Setai on South Beach has three swimming pools, each maintained at a different temperature
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Marinas | Florida
tie dockage. The marina has 40 berths for yachts of 25-30 meters and 13 berths for yachts of up to 76 meters. Contact: Marina Manager on VHF Hail on 16, Working Channel 67/68, +1 305 673 6000, info@miamibeachmarina.com.
volleyball. Take a hike along the self-guided nature trails at Lloyd Beach, whose natural setting is a sharp contrast with the city of Fort Lauderdale. Stroll along the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, which was modeled after Atlantic Citys legendary boardwalk and is a carnival of young hipsters, cyclists and skaters, amid rows of souvenir shops and arcades. The Hollywood Beach version stretches for three miles and includes a crushed-shell running path. The beach itself is wide and clean and a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk. Miamis Bayside Marketplace Fort Lauderdales climate lends itself perfectly to playing Art Deco Weekend has been running for 35 years and brings together parades, live bands, lectures and movies, all with a 1930s slant. The next weekend scheduled is 13-15 January 2012; www.artdecoweekend.com. The best diving in the area is off Pompano Beach. The golf. With more than 50 courses in the vicinity, among the best is the 18-hole course at Emerald Hills. Contact: Head Golf Professional Larry Blanchard, +1 954 961 4000, lblanchard@theclubatemeraldhills.com.
Recommended
Time your visit right and arrive as one of the citys festivals kicks off. The following are just a selection of the events that are must-sees on the calendar: Sleepless Nights runs across Miami Beach on the same night the clocks change, with art installations, fashion shows, street performers and a moonlit cinema. This year the festival runs from 6pm to 6am on 5-6 November; www.sleeplessnight.org. The South Beach Food & Wine Festival sees the whole city taken over by food and drink aficionados. From mixologists shaking up cocktails to open-air gastronomy competitions, Miamis top restaurants are all involved in this four-day culinary extravaganza. The next festival runs from 23-26 February 2012; www.sobewineandfoodfest.com. Carnaval Miami is the largest party in the Hispanic calendar. Latin music and jazz is played across numerous venues, and sporting events and culinary competitions take place throughout the festival. Everything is finished off with the Calle Ocho Festival in Little Havana on the last weekend. The event takes place every February and early March; www.carnavalmiami.com.
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has long been infamous for its annual spring break parties, but today the city is drawing a more affluent crowd attracted to its 300 miles of navigable waterways and vibrant culture ashore.
wreck of the Mercedes ran aground in Palm Beach and, after being salvaged, was later sunk for divers off Pompano Beach. Today the artificial reef abounds with spiny lobsters and barracudas, and an abundance of colorful sponges.
Dining
Fort Lauderdale has never been particularly known for its culinary scene, but the luxury hotels have introduced a number of fine restaurants. Las Olas Boulevard has a variety of restaurants ranging from fusion to Caribbean.
Sport and leisure

Well-known for its miles and miles of continuous beach, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. Head to Fort Lauderdale Beach for a swim or, if you feel brave enough, join the locals for a game of
The Bahia Mar Yachting Center in Fort Lauderdale has over 250 slips
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Marinas | Florida
Dining
Palm Beach is home to some of Floridas most exclusive restaurants. Dress is slightly formal, even at the trendier downtown West Palm Beach venues. There are a number of ne eateries, but those of note include Michelle Bernsteins restaurant at The Omphoy Ocean Resort, which serves a meaty Mediterranean menu with oor-toceiling views over the Atlantic Ocean (+1 561 540 6440). Chef Daniel Boulud chose Palm Beach as the location for his rst restaurant outside New York: Caf Boulud at the recently renovated Brazilian Court hotel. Fountains and lush courtyards complement the menus tropical air. The Palm Harbor Marina is well located for Palm Beachs shopping areas and restaurants Contact: General Manager Laurent Chevalier, +1 561 655 6060, lchevalier@danielnyc.com.
After dark
As Fort Lauderdale slowly sheds its reputation as a college party town, the bars and nightclubs are slowly attracting a savvier clientele. Las Olas Boulevard has vastly improved its party scene and, though it cannot compete with Miamis South Beach, it also lacks the South Beach attitude and so is a welcome respite for those looking for a casual night out.
by the railroad magnate Henry Flagler in the 1890s, and expanded in 1901 to a full 18 holes, the course has been revamped and is today one of the most exclusive courses in the world. Beaches in Palm Beach are beautiful, but without a yacht (and a tender), they are difcult to access as private estates and resorts make access from the land difcult. If you are yacht-less then Midtown Beach is an exception, as is Phipps Ocean Park and South Ocean Boulevard. The Palm Beach Grill is always busy, mainly thanks to its no-jacket policy and its bar menu which serves everything from cocktails to wines from all over the world.
After dark
Palm Beach is better known for its society balls and private parties than its nightlife, which is more likely to revolve around the better known hotels such as The Breakers, Ritz-Carlton, Chestereld and Four Seasons. No visit to Palm Beach is complete without a visit to the classic Breakers Hotel for a cocktail at the Seafood Bar. Leopard Lounge at the Chestereld Hotel attracts visitors, who end the night clubbing at 251 Palm Beach. West Palm Beach has been revitalized and Clematis Street at its center has become a hot spot for the West Palm glitterati and stylish Europeans. Current favorite jaunts include Blue Martini for its signature cocktail menu, Sky 309, an open-air, rooftop club, and Off the Hookah, a day and night club with daybeds and lounge areas where you can enjoy avored hookah pipes.
General information
Located on the beachfront, the Bahia Mar Yachting Center has over 250 slips including 150 berths for yachts between 25-30 meters and 100 berths for yachts of 30-80 meters. The resort itself has everything on offer from ve-star accommodation to tennis, golf, a tness center, shopping, restaurants and bars. Contact: Dockmaster Christina Russell, +1 800 755 9558, crussell@luxuryresorts.com.
Culture
Palm Beach has a wealth of patrons dedicated to the arts and the area boasts an abundance of venues. The Kravis Center for Performing Arts hosts more than 300 performances each year and is the place to go for the best music, dance and theater in Palm Beach. Contact: Box Ofce Manager Teresa Cribb, +1 561 832 7469. Downtown Palm Beach hosts the Norton Museum of Art, the largest art museum in the state. Here you will nd works by Picasso, Renoir and Monet, along with modernist sculptures, and American Pop Art.
Recommended
If you are visiting between June and July, you might be lucky enough to join the Sea Turtle Awareness Program on Lloyd Beach and witness the hatching of loggerhead sea turtles. The program begins at 9pm on Wednesday and Friday from mid-May to mid-July, Contact: +1 054 923 2833.
General information
Conveniently located south of the Lake Worth inlet, the new Palm Harbor Marina is the cornerstone of a multimillion dollar downtown waterfront revitalization project, which includes promenades, an amphitheater, waterfront pavilion and gardens. Everything in Palm Beach is just a short stroll away, including the nightlife of Clematis Street, Worth Avenue for shopping, and the classic Palm Beach hotels including The Breakers. Two hundred slips exist for yachts from 15 to 75 meters. Amenities include concierge services, a yacht club, tness facilities, and an Epicurean center. Contact: Marina Manager John Smundin, +1 561 655 4757 john@palmharbor-marina.com. ,
Palm Beach
The traditional winter home of American aristocracy, Palm Beach has it all, including beautiful beaches and a great climate. Today it is replete with exclusive golf clubs, bobbing superyachts, and vast mansions with immaculate lawns.
Sport and leisure

As with most of Floridas coastline cities, golf is a large part of the Palm Beach lifestyle. The area has a number of challenging courses, including the Abacoa Golf Club and the PGA Resort courses. The Ocean Course at the Breakers is the oldest in Florida. Built Caf Boulud at the Brazilian Court Hotel
Recommended
Interior design acionados should ock to the 40-plus antiques shops on South Dixie Highway.
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Alternative destinations | South Pacific
The islands of French Polynesia in the South Pacific offer the ultimate exotic escape
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South Pacific
When it comes to the ultimate tropical getaway, the islands of French destination is quite as remote and exotic as these intriguing islands.
BY MIRIAM CAIN
Treasures of the
Polynesia in the South Pacific are in a league of their own. No other cruising
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The following itinerary encompasses the Tuamotu Islands and the Society Islands over a two-week cruise, but it can be longer or shorter depending on your interests. The Tuamoto itinerary is best for diving enthusiasts though guests can also enjoy snorkeling in the calm waters of the lagoons. Getting to the Tuamotus from the Society Islands can be difficult as the prevailing winds are against you, so it is generally better to begin your charter in the Tuamotu Islands and cruise or sail downwind to Tahiti and her Society Islands, taking an internal flight from Tahiti to Fakarava and returning to Tahiti at the end of your charter.
Days 1 & 2: Fakarava (North and South Pass, 32 nautical miles)

Embark in Fakarava and spend a few days acclimatizing to the gentle pace of life onboard. The island, especially the South Pass, remains virtually untouched and the rich ecosystem is home to rare birds, plants and underwater life with dive sites that are almost undiscovered. Life along the shores of the North Pass is equally unique with quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming locals.
Day 3: Fakarava to Toau (12 nautical miles from Fakaravas North Pass)
A UNESCO-classified biosphere reserve, Toau is a The Tuamato Atolls are a renowned diving destination charming coral atoll with a wide lagoon perfect for peaceful anchorages, swimming, snorkeling and diving. Lose track of time as you explore the shallow lagoon. The 193/58.83m Seawolf
Days 4 & 5: Toau to Apataki (70 nautical miles)

One of the largest of the Tuamotu Islands, Apataki hosts the largest grey reef shark population in the Tuamotu. Here you will also find numerous pearl farms, on which this islands economy is based. You can visit any one of the farms and watch the masters in action as they remove pearls from the oysters and carefully replace the seed for the next cultivation. Later on, discover your own private bay and enjoy watersports followed by a beach barbecue prepared by your crew.
Days 6, 7 & 8: Apataki to Rangiroa (70 nautical miles from Apatakis North Pass)
Over two million years ago, a volcanic eruption created the islands of French Polynesia, a group of mountains rising above the surface of the South Pacific surrounded by a barrier reef. Between reef and mountain lie glorious lagoons and coral atolls home to a stunning array of marine life that swims in the gentle, shallow waters. Made up of five island groups, the Society Islands are at the cultural heart of French Polynesia. From Tahiti and the atolls of Bora Bora, to the islands of Raiatea, Taha and Huahine, they are best discovered by yacht. The Tuamotu Atolls are the central archipelago, comprising more than 70 low-lying islands and coral atolls. A world-renowned scuba diving destination, these UNESCO islands include Rangiroa, the worlds second largest atoll. The Marquesas to the northeast of Tuamotu are comprised of 12 volcanic islands and abound with dense jungle terrain. The final two island groups include the Austral Islands, which straddle the Tropic of Capricorn to the southwest of the Society Islands. The Australs are also volcanic and are inhabited by local tribes living in rural villages; as are the lesser-known Gambiers to the east, which remain in isolation and are largely untouched. Enjoy some snorkeling and diving and be seduced by the huge stingrays and manta rays that gently slide past you. Around the Avatoru Pass you will find silver tip sharks, whilst in the waters of the Tiputa Pass you can dive with bottlenose dolphins, and spot One of the worlds great dive destinations, the atoll of Rangiroa (the second largest in the world) is a string of coral encircling a luminous turquoise lagoon. There are 240 tiny islets, each no more than three feet in elevation, laying upon the ocean like a string of pearls for more than 110 miles, completely encircling an infinitely deep lagoon.
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Alternative destinations | South Pacic
Cruise and discover sweeping white-sand beaches
hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, barracudas, turtles and more grey sharks. Spend your days in the water whilst your crew spend the days transforming one of the many deserted white-sand beaches into an alfresco dining room. Step ashore and visit the main villages of Avatoru and Tiputa where you will witness everyday life infused with culture and traditions.
24-hour crossing. Dine on the open deck looking out to the foothills covered with frangipani and hibiscus as your yacht cruises the open water and through the Te Ava Nui Pass into the lagoon of Bora Bora. Bora Bora is as close to the tropical ideal as it gets. Her dark green mountains, known locally as Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, appear to hover as they rise up out of a deep lagoon. The reef around the lagoon is clustered with desert islands, known locally as motus. Enjoy swimming, diving or snorkeling during the daytime, and then retire to land and pass leisurely hours drinking
Hinanu beer at the Bora Bora Yacht Club whilst your crew prepare a traditional feast of sh fresh from the lagoon, accompanied by taro root and breadfruit baked slowly in an ahimoa, a traditional Polynesian cooking pit dug into the ground.
Day 13: Bora Bora to Tahaa (16 nautical miles)

Take the tender to discover the lagoons underwater world before an early-evening aperitif onboard as you set sail. For those wishing to simply lounge on the beach, Matira Beach on the southern end of the main island
Days 11 & 12: Rangiroa to Bora Bora (240 nautical miles to Moorea)
Cruise from the Tuamotus to the Society Islands in a
The 2264/69m Tia Moana
The 178/54.27m Tiara
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French Polynesia offers plenty of opportunity to explore beautiful and unspoilt shallow lagoons
is said to be the best beach in all of French Polynesia. Stretching more than two miles along, the sandy-bottom lagoon remains shallow right out to the coral reef. From Bora Bora it is a short hop back through the Te Ava Nui Pass and through the Pai Pai Pass to the lagoon that surrounds the island of Tahaa, which lies silhouetted against the magnicent Polynesian sunset. Next morning, oat amid a rainbow of sh, including vibrant parrotsh, striped snapper, emperor angelsh and buttery sh.
sacred temple, Marae Taputapuatea, the focal point of religious ceremonies, where the main shrine was dedicated to Oro, the god of war. Step ashore and hike up the Tapioi Mountain for spectacular views over Raiatea and her neighboring islands. Alternatively, the less energetic can kayak up the Faaroa River and visit the islands tropical interior. Here you will also nd the islands horticultural gardens which are worthy of a visit. Spread over four acres, the land is abundant with ylang-ylang and cocoa trees and other tropical species.
and on to Huahine. Formed of two islands, Huahine Nui in the north and Huahine Iti in the south, the island is the perfect place to absorb some culture. Step ashore to the islands pearl farm. Later on, your crew can organize for locals to perform a special farewell ceremony followed by an evening of Tahitian dance and music around a campre. From Huahine, you can sail overnight onboard to Tahiti, or take an internal ight.
Day 14: Tahaa to Raiatea (15 nautical miles)

Lying in the same lagoon as Tahaa, neighboring Raiateas rugged interior is as impressive as its surrounding beaches. The island is home to French Polynesias most
Days 16, 17 & 18: Huahine to Tahiti (88 nautical miles)

On Tahiti, as with many of the Society Islands, you will nd cosmopolitan luxury combined with local culture as many of the worlds top resorts have premises here. There are also countless monuments and ruins, and the natural landscape remains relatively unspoilt. The 1341/41.4m Odyssey Papeete is the capital of Tahiti and is where you will nd most restaurants, bars and markets. From doing nothing on Tahitis beautiful beaches to immersing yourself in Polynesian culture, spending a few days ashore in Tahiti is a must. The best beaches on the island are occupied by the luxury resorts, but they are still accessible. Alternatively, there are many public beaches. For a spot of culture, and a brief look at the islands history visit the Museum of Tahiti and its Islands, the Gaugin Museum or the home of James Norman Hall, author of Mutiny on the Bounty. After a dose of culture, dive into Papeetes pearl shops where you can pick the naturally created pearls for your own necklace threaded or set on site.
Day 15: Raiatea to Huahine (25 nautical miles)

Cruise through the lagoon and through the Iriru Pass
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From waterfront cafs and restaurants to local bars and clubs, Papeete covers the entire spectrum. Tahitian cuisine blends South Pacic staples with French culinary air, the specialty dish of the island being the Poisson Cru (raw sh marinated in coconut milk and lime juice). Many of the cabanas on the coast serve simply prepared fresh shrimp and lobster, but for a more sophisticated evening, head to Restaurant Dao for French cuisine, Cocos or Le Lotus for gourmet French dishes and fresh seafood accompanied by spectacular views over the lagoon, or Fares Restaurant for sunset cocktails. Finish off the evening with live music and cocktails at Le Tamure Hut at the Royal Papeete Hotel.
Yachts for charter

cec@edmistonompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com.
The 120/36.58m Silent World II
Tia Moana, 2264/69m, 32 guests, US$350,000 per week. Contact: Charter Broker Christopher Craven at Edmiston and Company, +377 93 30 54 44,
Seawolf, 193/58.83m, 12 guests, US$180,000 per week. Contact: Charter Broker Jan Henry at Fraser Yachts Worldwide, +1 954 522 3344, jan.henry@fraseryachts.com, www.fraseryachts.com. Tiara, 178/54.27m, 10 guests, 180,000 per week (Tiara will be available for charter in French Polynesia throughout the autumn only). Contact: Charter Broker Christopher Craven at Edmiston and Company, +377 93 30 54 44, cec@edmistonompany.com, www.edmistoncompany.com. Asteria, 1609/49m, 12 guests. Please enquire for prices. Contact: Charter Broker James Graham-Cloete at Ocean Independence, +44 1273 831 010, james@ocyachts.com, www.oceanindependence.com. Odyssey, 1341/41.4m, 11 guests, US$125,000 per week. Contact: Charter Broker Barbara Dawson at Camper & Nicholsons International, +1 561 655 2121, bd@pal.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com. Silent World II, 120/36.58m, eight guests, US$50,000 per week. Contact: Charter Director Jeni Tidmarsh at Luxury Charter Group, +64 21 777 173, charter@luxurychartergroup.com, www.luxurychartergroup.com. Margaux, 1171/35.7m, six guests, US$59,000 per week. Contact: Charter Broker Barbara Dawson at Camper & Nicholsons International, +1 561 655 2121, bd@pal.cnyachts.com, www.camperandnicholsons.com. The 1609/49m Asteria The 1171/35.7m Margaux
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Hot spots | Asia
Phuket is surrounded by an archipelago of jungle-clad uninhabited islands
promise
For those wishing to explore beyond the popular cruising grounds of the Mediterranean South China Seas. and Caribbean, turn east to the hauntingly beautiful waters of Southeast Asia and the
BY MIRIAM CAIN
Eastern
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Hot spots | Asia
Phuket
Where to stay
Phuket has a choice of elegant and stylish resorts for weary sea legs where guests can expect superlative facilities with ultra-high service standards. A number offer private villas and pools. The Banyan Tree, located on the shores of Bang Tao Bay on the northwest of Phuket, and part of Laguna Phuket, is an integrated resort that consists of five luxury hotels, six lagoons, 600 acres of parkland, over two miles of beach and an array of recreational and dining facilities. The resort has earned accolades from leading magazines the world over, and was recently included in the Cond Nast Traveler Gold List 2011, and the Cond Nast Traveler 20th Annual Readers Choice Awards.
beautifully decorated and complete with private terraces and sea views. The resort was the first Aman resort to open and remains a flagship for the company. The on-site Aman Spa has six Thai-style pavilions where therapists offer an extensive menu of treatments tailored to the individual. Contact: General Manager Fred Varnier, +66 76 324 333. The villas at Sri Panwa have glass-walled bedrooms with uninterrupted views over the Andaman Sea, which open out onto their own private infinity pool. The Sai Spa menu includes Thai massage, facials and therapy baths. Areas like Patong are better avoided when looking for
Pristine beaches, turquoise waters, amazing underwater life, uninhabited islands and well-protected anchorages make the Andaman Sea the reigning maritime jewel of Southeast Asia. The island of Phuket acts as a hub for the region. It has long been a well-established travel hot spot and yet it still retains its appeal. Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, the island was once famed for its rubber plantations and tin mines, but today its most valuable asset is its scenery. It has rustic villages where locals still live in the traditional old-Thai- style manner, but it also has some of the worlds most luxurious hotels and spas.
What to do
Phuket is the ideal base from which to explore the largely uninhabited surrounding islands, famous for their stunning topography and underwater marine life. The area of Phang Nga Bay is made up of over 100 islands. The area is most famous for its steep karst outcrops towering out of the sea that were immortalized by the James Bond film The Man With The Golden Gun. Head to local legend John Gray for a starlit canoe discoverya private kayak expedition of the waters and ancient caves around Phuket. John is an authority on the area and will personally guide you around the bays and Phang Nga Caves. Contact: Ling Yai (aka John Gray), +66 84 844 1807 www.johngray-seacanoe.com. , Visit the Had Nai Yang National Park, a long stretch of shoreline known for its annual release of protected hatchling sea turtles into the Andaman Sea. Protected from fishermen and poachers by a conservation program, the numbers of turtles are dwindling and would probably be extinct without this conservation effort. The annual release takes place in April during the Songkran holiday. The national park is also where you will find Phukets largest coral reef in shallow water just 1,400 meters from the shore. The best time to snorkel here is from November to April before the annual monsoon makes the sea too choppy. There are a few Buddhist temples on Phuket that are worth visiting. The most famous is Wat Chalong, whilst the most unique is Wat Phra Thong. For golf fans, Phuket has a number of internationalstandard golf courses. The Blue Canyon Country Club is ranked amongst the finest courses in Asia and offers two championship layoutsthe Lakes Course and the Canyon Course. The Phuket Country Club is an all-round course with excellent facilities. The Laguna Gold Club is a relaxed, resort-style, 18-hole course with wide fairways, while the Red Mountain Golf Club is the newest 18-hole course on the island, integrated into the lush hills of Kathu. The Amanpuri Hotel is the epitome of elegance. It easily lives up to its name, meaning place of peace, as its luxury teak pavilions are scattered over a coconut plantation, On the eastern side of the island the Evason Phuket is a family-friendly resort and popular spa retreat. Set amongst 64 acres of tropical parklands and gardens, the resorts selection of pool villas includes a honeymoon villa on its own island Koh Bon. The resort is also where you will find the Six Senses Spa with its comprehensive menu of signature treatments and specialist programs for holistic wellness and rejuvenation. Contact: General Manager Frank Grassmann, frankg@sixsenses.com; Spa Manager Linda Overman, dir-thailand-spa@sixsenses.com.
accommodation as over-development caters for budget tour groups from around the world. That said, some new landscaping has improved a few parts of town, which were badly hit by the tsunami of 2004, and a few upscale bars and restaurants are beginning to change the scene.
Where to eat
Phuket boasts some of the best seafood in Thailand and the restaurants are akin to those found in the five-star hotels of Bangkok. This means that the prices are overblown, but they attract well-heeled fun-seekers rather than the backpackers for which Thailand is better known. Most are located in the boutique-style resorts that are dotted around the island, such as The Banyan
Phang Nga Bay is famous for its steep outcrops
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Hot spots | Asia
Tree and Amanpuri, but there are a few stand-alone culinary establishments worth visiting. Bang Tao Bay is home to a number of high-end properties all with their own ne-dining eateries. The Banyan Tree tops the bill with pan-Asian delicacies on the menu at Saffron, and Mediterranean seafood cuisine at Watercourt. There are three restaurants at the Amanpuri resort: The Terrace, a casual setting, with a Thai and European all-day dining menu; The Restaurant, which serves Italian cuisine; and Naoki, which serves Chef Naoki Okumuras original French Kaiseki, combining the best of French techniques with a Japanese air. Contact: General Manager Fred Varnier, +66 76 324 333. Patong is crammed with small cafs and restaurants, but the arrival of the new JungCeylon shopping mall has attracted a number of high-end dining venues. To the south of the island, Chalong Bays Kan Eang Seafood is well known for its lobster dishes straight from the ocean. Located on the water with views over Kalim Bay, the beachfront bar at Joes Downstairs is a favorite for local expats who come for cocktails at sunset, but it also serves appetizers, Asian-style tapas, and seafood dishes, including Maine lobster for lunch and dinner, and boasts a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. Contact: Executive Chef Aaron Hooper, +66 76 618 245. Joes Downstairs is also a popular hangout for late-night drinks, but for those who want to continue into the early hours, Catch Beach Club is the favorite haunt with live music and DJs.
The Evason Phuket is set amid lush surroundings
Where to board
At the northeast end of Phuket, the Yacht Haven Marina is the ideal launch pad for a charter through the stunning cruising grounds of Phang Nga Bay. Just minutes from Phuket International Airport, you can step aboard your yacht and cruise across the bay. Contact: Marina Manager Nick Wyatt, +66 76 206 704.
of Asias leading regattas and enjoys the royal patronage of the King of Thailand. Competitors from around the world, from world-class sailors to weekend yachting enthusiasts, race off Phukets major beaches and also make a big run to the Phi Phi Islands. The Kings Cup Regatta will be hosted from 4-11 December 2011. Celebrating its 11th year, the Asia Superyacht
Recommended
Dusit is the headquarters of the Elephant Help Project, a mobile clinic that invites guests to join the vets as they tend to sick elephants across the island. Driving in a hardtop Land Rover, this is a wonderful opportunity to travel around Phuket, meet the elephants and get involved with the worthy work of the clinic.
Rendezvous takes place from16-18 December 2011 in Phuket. The diverse eet has grown year on year, and this year it welcomes both sailing and motoryachts, classic and new, to cruise the waters of the Andaman Sea and enjoy Thai hospitality in a relaxed and sociable setting.
Yachting events on the horizon

The annual Kings Cup Regatta takes place each December in the waters surrounding Phuket. This is one
Langkawi
One of 99 largely uninhabited islands scattered off the west coast of the Malaysian peninsula, Langkawi is today what Bali was like three decades agoan idyllic
Pansea Beach is just a short hop from The Amanpuri Hotel, Phuket
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Hot spots | Asia
hideaway embraced by natures wonders, framed within a breathtaking backdrop of dramatic mountain landscapes. The island is the largest in the archipelago. The calm and pleasant moderate winds off Langkawi make for perfect sailing conditions, and the island is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding archipelago of islands and islets with their thick jungle foliage, mountains and national parks.
What to do
Take a trip inland and discover the islands lush landscape of rainforest. Jump into the fresh waters of Seven Wells, one of Langkawis seven spectacular waterfalls; take the zip-line across the rainforest canopy for a birds-eye view over the interior; or simply hike and discover various local wildlife including rare and exotic bird species in one of the largest mangrove forests in Southeast Asia. Uncover some of the most intriguing geological gems etched in the sea cliff landscapes of Langkawi. The UNESCO World Geopark is rated 52nd in the world for its unique geological heritagewith sites said to date back to 550 million years. The Pulau Payar Marine Park lying just off Langkawi is surrounded by well-protected coral reefs that are home to numerous species of marine life best discovered with an underwater dive. Pedal around rustic wooden houses amid stretches of green paddy elds on a guided biking trip through Langkawis rural scopes and local villages. Visiting Kuah is a must for some great duty-free shopping, including a number of designer labels. The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club makes a good base when visiting by yacht
Where to stay
Langkawi has a wide selection of luxury resorts and spas. The Four Seasons Resort Langkawi is located on Tanjung Rhu, one of the islands best beaches on the northeastern shore. Guest pavilions and villas of indigenous architecture are dotted around the resort amid landscaped gardens in the style of a native village, reecting Langkawis meltingpot history of Balinese, Chinese and Indian settlers. The beach villas are palatial, with plunge pools and verandas. There are two restaurants including Ikan-Ikan on the beach and the Rhu bar. The spa is housed in six spa pavilions, and provides Thai and Malay treatments and yoga classes. Contact: General Manager Greg Pirkle, +604 950 8888. The rainforest retreat of The Datai has long been a favorite of well-heeled Asians, and has built a reputation as one of the most desirable hotels in Malaysia. The resort emerges from the rainforest oor and cascades down to the sea and a private beach. With two swimming pool areas, three restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and an indulgent spa and wellness center, the Datai is the perfect antidote to city life. Villas are hidden amongst the jungle terrain, and the sounds of the rainforest echo throughout, with bird calls and monkey chatter from dusk till dawn. Contact: Acting General Manager Guido Farina, +604 959 2500, or Spa Director Angeline Lim, +604 959 2500. The chilled-out lounge bar Chin Chin, annexed to Nam restaurant, is just the ticket for those looking for a quiet place to indulge in a few cocktails. Set in an antique shop and decked out with Malay antiques, it is a unique spot and, as with Nam, the sunsets are spectacular. The beachfront setting of the Lighthouse Restaurant on Pantai Tengan Beach is also hard to beat. The first-floor veranda is ideal for those looking for formal dining, whilst those looking for something slightly less dressy can eat at an outside table on the beach. Either way, the Malay and Mediterranean menu comes highly recommended by expats and visitors. For those wishing to learn a little more Nyonoya Platter. Contact: General Manager Alison Fraser, +604 955 6787 . Dine by candlelight at the Datais Thai Pavilion Restaurant
Where to eat
Cuisine in Malaysia is a fantastic combination of Chinese, Indian and, as such, Malaysian, and Langkawi is a culinary haven for foodies. Savor local avors and colorful sights at the Pasar Malam Night Market. The streets are abuzz with vendors peddling their wares. The Nam at the Bon Ton Resort is one of the most popular dining spots. Serving a mixture of Malay and Western dishes, the setting amidst an old coconut grove is idyllic and the perfect place for a sunset dinner. Try the signature dish
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Hot spots | Asia
The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club hosts yachts up to 60m
Recommended
Take a ride on the Langkawi Cable Car to the summit of Mount Macinchang for a panoramic view over Langkawi. The dramatic, near-vertical ride lifts you high above the rainforest canopy to a 706-meter rocky summit.
Hainan
China has recently been attracting attention from the yachting crowd as the countrys economy booms and the yacht market develops fast. This year saw the second Hainan Rendezvous, which was well attended by those wishing to sail the islands coasts on the South China Sea and the Gulf of Tonkin. Referred to as the Chinese Hawaii, Hainan Island is the only tropical beach destination in China. Lying southwest
about Malay cuisine, head chef Shukri hosts a hands-on cooking program in his home where guests can learn how to cook with local ingredients and enjoy the dishes with Shukri. Contact: General Manager Sudirman, +604 955 2586, or to make bookings for Cook with Shukri, email Chef Shukri, shucor@steamyx.com. The Pavilion restaurant at the aforementioned Datai is located in a thatched terrace high in the forest canopy and serves fantastic Thai and Asian cuisine. Contact: Restaurant Manager Kenneth Nicholas, +604 959 2500. You should also dine at the Hole in the Wall Fish Farm & Restaurant on the Kilim River, where the menu is
mainly based around the daily catch. For those looking for somewhere to carry on the evening, the most popular nightspot is the hip SunBa.
of Hong Kong, the island is close to the Vietnamese coast and has roughly the same latitude and a similar land mass as Hawaii. Though it is only a 90-minute ight from Hong Kong, Hainan has everything you could wish for, including palm-fringed beaches and warm temperatures year-round. The tropical island has drawn vacationers from the mainland for a number of years, but with all the dramatic economic changes in China, there has been a boom in tourism which is today attracting many more mainland travelers to experience what has predominantly been a foreign beach culture. It wont be long before the Chinese start exploring other beach holiday destinations. The interior of Hainan is clad with lush tropical rainforests inhabited by tigers, ancient buildings and cultural remains. The coastline is made up of miles of white, sandy beaches that remain largely untouched, and the surrounding waters have some great locations for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Where to board
The Royal Langkawi Yacht Club is a 200-berth marina for yachts of up to 60 meters. Superbly located on the southeast corner of Langkawi, the marina is ideally based for access to the duty-free shops and is just a short journey to Kuah, the islands main town. The yacht club hosts many events throughout the year, including the annual Royal Langkawi Regatta, and welcomes visiting yachts. Contact: Marina Manager Ahmad Zailani, +604 966 4078 (ofce) and VHF Channel 69.
What to do
Take a dip in one of the islands geothermal hot springs that can be found all around the island. The springs have water temperatures of 45C to 90C. There are several high-quality golf courses on the island and the number is growing annually as development increases. Among the best, and one of the top ten courses in China, is the Yalong Bay Golf Club of Sanya. The ofcial golf club of the Asian Tour, the course is a Robert Trent Jones Junior 18-hole par-72. Overlooking the water, the 68 hectares/168 acres are streaked with a winding riving and dotted with lakes and coconut trees. Hainans cities and towns include the capital Haikou, found on the north of the island, and the town of Sanya. They all boast colonial-style buildings, leafy avenues and open-air markets. Visit Sanyas First Market, where locals barter over live giant seafood, apping sh, water buffalo Unwind and enjoy the view at the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi
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Hot spots | Asia
legs and fresh tofu. Here your chef will also nd fresh white noodles, dim sum shells and fresh fruit, including custard apple and dragon fruit. Should your palette be up to it, your chef could even prepare a local soup delicacy. Alternatively, go inland and discover traditional living. The hills are home to 20 tribes, including Li and Miao. Their villages dot the landscape and here you will nd many living the traditional way of life to which they are accustomed, working with crops of dragon fruit, mango, papaya and guava, and in the paddy elds. Li woman are tattooed all over their bodies, whilst Miao wear elegantly embroidered textiles and detailed jewelry.
and above. One of Chinas most modern marinas and yacht clubs, the marina opened at the end of 2009 and is part of a larger development, which includes restaurants, shops, and residential accommodation.
be held from 5-8 April 2012. The event combines Chinas largest business jet show, Chinas largest on-water display of superyachts, luxury property displays, and a showcase of Asias nest lifestyle products, all in one event.
Recommended
Explore Nanshan Mountain, renowned for its inhabitants longevity, thanks to the superb air quality and legend of the mountains power and the ancient Dracaena cambodiana trees that cover it. This is where the traditional Chinese birthday saying May you live as long as the pines on Mount Nanshan originates. At the foot of the mountain is a large Buddhist theme park that has become a popular pilgrimage with its huge statue of the Buddhist goddess Guan Yin standing 50 feet higher than the Statue of Liberty.
Yachts for charter
There are only a handful of yachts that are available for charter that venture further aeld to cruising grounds such as Southeast Asia. Some are on circumnavigation trips and some base themselves there for the winter. Yachts will usually only be in this part of the world for a limited period which means that charters need to be booked well in advance. The southeast monsoon starts in June and goes on until September and generally brings with it, some good winds for sailing, with a couple of hours of rain in the afternoons to help cool the heat of the day. The northeast monsoon, that runs from November through April, offers sunny and dry weather, with calmer seas and lighter winds.
Where to stay
The former shing village of Sanya on the southern tip of Hainan Island has boomed in the past ten years and it is here that you will nd two of the islands best beaches, Tianya Haijiao and Dadonghai. There are also a number of resorts, the likes of The Banyan Tree and the Mandarin Oriental, and later this year will see the opening of the new Rafes Sanya and a new Fairmont Resort. The Mandarin Oriental Sanya is set beneath green hills, and surrounded by a clear sea edged with coral reefs. Every one of the rooms has views over the sea. The beach resorts spa is nestled serenely on the hillside and offers traditional Chinese medicine and a range of other treatments. Contact: General Manager Paul Jackson, +86 898 8820 9999. To the east of Sanya is Yalong Bay with a ve-mile beach, the aforementioned championship golf course Yalong Bay Golf Club, and several hotels, including the awardwinning Ritz-Carlton Sanya. A vast complex inspired by Beijings Summer Palace, the Ritz-Carlton has 450 rooms with 33 pool villas, eight dining establishments and bars, countless innity pools and fountains, numerous sports and watersports facilities, and one of the largest spas in the region with exclusive ESPA therapies and treatments. Contact: General Manager Michel Goget, +86 898 8858, or Spa Director Kelly Fu, +86 898 8858 ext.6952.
Events on the horizon

Now in its third edition, the Hainan Rendezvous will
Below and bottom: The vast Summer Palaceinspired Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Hainan, has everything for the perfect Asian summer
Where to eat
Hainan cuisine has a wonderful array of ingredients, with a wealth of specialty restaurants serving local, traditional Chinese, Western, Japanese and other dishes. Local cuisine is best known for its Famous Four: Wenchang Chicken, Jiaji Duck, Dongshan Mutton and Hele Crab, but there are several other local specialties including Hainan Chicken, Hainan Noodles and Dongshan Pancakes.
Where to board
The Visun Marina has Hainans largest quay wall for stern mooring and is capable of berthing yachts of 30 meters
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Highlights | Hong Kong
A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong is now one of two Chinese Special Administrative Regions, along with neighboring Macau. The fourth most densely populated area in the world, the city sprawls from central Hong Kong Island across Victoria Harbour to the Kowloon Peninsula and outwards to include the New Territories and 262 further outlying islands. Dominated by ever-higher skyscrapers, Hong Kong comes alive at night when the city lights illuminate the harbor frontier. Standing below the magnificent Victoria Peak, this bustling destination boasts a wealth of attractions and designer outlets to lure visitors from the stunning views of super-luxury, top-floor suites. Here Eastern and Western cultures meet in style, but on either side of the city you will find peaceful beaches, islands and protected parkland.
HigHligHts
THE PEAK
Towering over the city, Victoria Peak offers unparalleled and breathtaking panoramas across the fusion of greenery, water and the vertical city that is Hong Kong. Most dramatically accessed by tram, The Peak is a natural attraction that cannot be missed and an experience that will not be forgotten. Plan your visit carefully: go at dusk to see the sunset behind the soaring skyscrapers and the city lights slowly bloom far beneath you. The Peak Lookouts terrace is the place to enjoy a drink before taking the Peak Tram back down to earth.
CHINESE LUNAR FESTIVALS

Based on the lunar calendar, celebrations of traditional Chinese holidays are colorful and vibrant affairs to wow locals and visitors alike. The longest and largest is the Chinese New Year, which in 2012 occurs on 23 January and lasts until the Lantern Festival some 14 days later. But many other festivals tempt thousands of people out onto the streets and squares of the city to celebrate. The atmosphere at festival time is a unique and exhilarating way to experience the culture of modern and traditional Hong Kong.
HAPPy VALLEy RACES

Happy Valley has been the home of horseracing in Hong Kong since 1846 and the buzz of Wednesday night racing at the ultra-sophisticated track is a thrill and experience for locals and visitors alike. Champagne flows in the private boxes, which are perfect viewpoints for elite guests to enjoy the entertainment and exemplary hospitality. The main season at Happy Valley lasts from September until June, but the very best racing can be witnessed during Hong Kong Cup Day in early December, when the racing worlds eyes are focused on the four Group 1 races that make up the event.
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Day & Night | Hong Kong
DAy & Night

Visitors to Hong Kong will instantly be captivated by the contrast between the soaring metropolis and serene outlying islands. In both environments, there is no shortage of things to do. Then, when the sun sets and the humidity of the day subsides, Hong Kongs lights bloom, its markets come alive and its bars and clubs open their many doors to the citys hedonists.
NIGHT: SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS

The Symphony of Lights is recognized by Guinness World Records as the worlds largest permanent light and sound show. This spectacular display takes place nightly and starts at 8pm. Synchronizing the lights of key buildings on both sides of the Victoria Harbour waterfront, the show comprises five themes to celebrate the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong, along with musical effects to add to the vibrancy of this incredible night vista. The best viewing locations are along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront between the Avenue of Stars and Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, or from your own private yacht in Victoria Harbour. Phone | +852 2810 2555 Email | tcenq@cedb.gov.hk Address | Victoria Harbour Waterfront Web | www.tourism.gov.hk/symphony
DAY: 360 SKY LOUNGE

The glass-bottomed cabins of these incredible cable cars give an astonishing birds-eye view and a feeling of walking on air above the beautiful Ngong Ping Plateau. For the elite traveler, however, the 360 Sky Lounge offers a romantic, luxury private cabin high in the sky. Decorated with crystalized Swarovski Elements, this golden cabin is the ideal venue for a special occasion. Fly high above the Big Buddha and Festival Walk with panoramic views over the city, the dramatic coastline and far-reaching islands. Phone | +852 3666 0606 Email | info@np360.com.hk Address | 11 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Web | www.np360.com.hk
NIGHT: NIGHT MARKETS

The bustle of Hong Kongs markets, by day and by night, is the most authentic experience of local Hong Kong culture you can findand it really comes alive once the boutiques down their shutters for the night. Venture to the Temple Street Night Market and Ladies Market on Tung Choi Street to find an amazing range of items, fortune tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances. Ask your concierge to organize a guide, giving you the inside track to discover gems and treasures hiding in the stalls and shops.
DAY: HARBOR TOUR

Explore Hong Kongs harbors, coastlines and islands in spectacular Grand Prix style at the helm of a Volvo Open 60 high-performance racing yacht. Experience the power of the wind and the thrill of sailing as these yachts reach speeds of up to 40 knots. Alternatively, Hong Kong Yachting offers more laid-back vessels for a trip out to a quiet island for lunch, for example, before returning to Victoria Harbour to view the Symphony of Lights. Phone | +852 2526 0151 Email | info@hongkongyachting.com Address | Tai Yau Building, 181 Johnston Road, Wan Chai Web | www.hongkongyachting.com
NIGHT: KEE CLUB

Kee Clubs multiple lounges, along with its ever-popular gourmet restaurant and nightclub are as unique as they are welcoming. Although a private members club since 2001, ask your concierge for a day membership so you can spend the evening sampling cocktails in the lounge, or playing poker and billiards in the Centurion Salon before dancing to the sound of Kee in the nightclub. Phone | +852 2810 9000 Email | booking@keeclub.com Address | 32 Wellington Street, Central Web | www.keeclub.com
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Where to stay | Hong Kong
WHErE TO STAy
INTERCONTINENTAL HONG KONG

Internationally acclaimed as one of the worlds top hotels, the InterContinental Hong Kong is renowned for its impeccable service and spectacular waterfront location. Furthermore, it is something of a culinary hot spot incorporating two restaurants overseen by two of the worlds top chefs: Spoon by Alain Ducasse and Nobu by Nobu Matsuhisa. The Intercontinentals I-Spa is the first in Hong Kong to incorporate the principles of feng shui into its urban retreat design. VIP contact | Jean-Jacques Reibel, Managing Director Phone | +852 2721 1211 Email | jean-jacques_reibel@interconti.com Address | 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Web | www.intercontinental.com
THE PENINSULA
Hong Kongs oldest hotel, The Peninsula has built a reputation for classical grandeur and the finest traditions of service and hospitality. Transfer from the airport in a Peninsula-chauffeured Rolls-Royce limousine, or by helicopter to the twin helipads on the roof, your launch pad to Hong Kongs territories. With iconic status yet independent personalities, the hotels restaurants are emblems of Hong Kongs dining heritage, whilst the Spa by ESPA is a sensual sanctuary. VIP contact | Rainy Chan, General Manager Phone | +852 2920 2888 Email | rainychan@peninsula.com Address | Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Web | www.peninsula.com/hongkong TOP SUITE: THE PENINSULA SUITE Square footage | 4,100 Nightly rate | $9,250 Why we love it | Designed to be the most spectacular suite in Hong Kong, unabashed opulence dominates this 26th-floor residence at one of the worlds most historic hotels. Boasting an immense master bedroom with marble bath, fitness room and private study, subtle Oriental influences are reflected in the Richard International and Alison Henry design. But it is the view that really sells this suite: from the very top of the Peninsula Tower, the panoramic vista stretches right across Victoria Harbour. Hours can be spent observing this view either from the bath positioned under vast windows or the open-air balcony. A butler and chauffeur are on call 24 hours a day further enhancing the luxury of your stay in one of Hong Kongs most spectacular suites. TOP SUITE: PrESIDENTIAL SUITE Square footage | 7,000 Nightly rate | $11,230 Why we love it | The Presidential Suite is the largest in the city, designed to give elite guests an IMAX experience of Hong Kong. The dramatic setting offers wraparound views of Hong Kong Island and includes an exclusive rooftop terrace featuring a phenomenal private infinity pool that hovers far above Victoria Harbour. From inside, the floor-to-ceiling windows capture Hong Kongs skyline and are enough to impress even the most expectant visitor. If guests manage to take their eyes off this jaw-dropping view, they will discover the meticulously-designed contemporary interior with artwork selected by Beijing Longmai Gallery, Edelman leather upholstery, linens by Christian Fischbacher and bathroom amenities by Chanel.
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Where to stay | Hong Kong
ISLAND SHANGRI-LA
A welcoming retreat in the heart of the city, the Island Shangri-La soars 56 floors above Hong Kongs most prestigious shopping, cultural and business addresses. The architectural jewel of the Signature Tower rises directly above Pacific Place, with memorable views of The Peak and Victoria Harbour. Restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Petrus, offer exquisite fine dining, and the hotels lobby is home to the worlds largest Chinese silk painting, the Great Motherland of China, which spans 16 storeys in the atrium. VIP contact | Darren Gearing, General Manager Phone | +852 2820 8301 Email | darren.gearing@shangri-la.com Address | Pacific Place, Supreme Court Road, Central Web | www.shangri-la.com/island TOP SUITE: PRESIDENTIAL SUITE Square footage | 2,300 Nightly rate | $4,600 Why we love it | Located on the 55th floor, at the height of the tower, the exceptionally spacious offerings of the Presidential Suite include a private entrance, a dining room for 14 people and the option of additional rooms to make it into a two-bedroom suite. To entertain guests in luxurious style, the suite offers magnificent views of Victoria Harbour, the Kowloon Peninsula and beyond, while the interior is festooned with handpainted murals.
TOP SUITE: PENTHOUSE Square footage | 1,950 Nightly rate | $1,300 Why we love it | With sweeping views of the awe-inspiring Hong Kong skyline, this suite is a study in clean lines and tranquil spaces. A wonderful respite from the hectic city, the abundant space includes a 300-square-foot master bathroom with a walk-in rain shower, freestanding tub and incredible harbor views.
HOTEL LKF BY RHOMBUS

With its dramatic dcor and luxury design, Hotel LKF by Rhombus, a deluxe boutique hotel truly located in the heart of Lan Kwai Fong, has been delighting international jet-setters with its five-star personalized service and premium design. Awarded the Best Boutique Hotel in Asia Pacific by Business Traveller in 2009, Best Boutique Hotel by the 20th TTG Travel Awards in 2009 and the Best Business Hotel by China Hotel Design Awards 2009, Hotel LKF by Rhombus consists of 95 rooms and suites that are generously proportioned from 500 to 950 square feet. In the ultra-comfortable guestrooms, guests can easily luxuriate in tailored bed sheets and goose down pillows, admire the Molton Brown deluxe amenities, unwind under the warm background
THE UPPER HOUSE

Designed by Hong Kong architect Andre Fu to provide a sense of understated luxury, the contemporary and monochromatic design of The Upper House combines many elements to present highly individualized and abundantly spacious suites. Fus intention, to create a small luxury hotel reminiscent of a private residence, is achieved by conjuring up a sense of tranquility throughout the design and ambiance of the hotel, ensuring The Upper House is a peaceful retreat, removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. VIP contact | Dean Winter, General Manager Phone | +852 3968 1002 Email | deanwinter@wirehotels.com Address | Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Central Web | www.upperhouse.com
lighting and be pampered by 24-hour service. Located on the 29th and 30th floors of the hotel with a sweeping view of the vibrant city skyline is the award-winning Azure Restaurant Slash Bar, acclaimed as one of the Best Restaurants in HK by Hong Kong Tatler in 2008-2010 and ranked No. 7 in The Worlds 20 Best Sky Bars 2008 by The Sunday Times. Transformed at the hand of award-wining interior designer Andre Fu, Azure is a sophisticated venue for creative cocktails and innovative culinary creations. VIP contact | Amit Pushkarna, Hotel Manager Phone | +852 3518 9688 Email | gm_lkf@rhombusinternational.com Address | 33 Wyndham Street, Lan Kwai Fong, Central Web | www.hotel-LKF.com.hk
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Where to dine | Hong Kong
WHERE TO DINE
With a total of 75 Michelin stars embellishing 60 different restaurants and a plethora of other awards, Hong Kong has recently amassed enough culinary accolades to rival many cities in the US and Europe. Moreover, the East meets West culture allows creative fusions of the many different cuisines in spectacular kitchens right across the city.
AMBER
Style/ambiance | New, delicious and mouthwatering flavors from head chef Richard Ekkebus are served within the chic surroundings designed by Adam Tihany. Amber hues and a Parisian feel set the scene for East meets West culinary creations, where French gastronomy is combined with ingredients from all over the world to produce a taste extravaganza. With two Michelin stars and ranked 37th in San Pelligrinos Worlds 50 Best Restaurants hierarchy, Amber is among Hong Kongs top dining experiences. VIP contact | Thomas Combescot-Lepre, Fine Dining Manager Phone | +852 2132 0066 Email | lmhkg-amber@mohg.com Address | The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queens Road, Central Web | www.amberhongkong.com Cuisine | Innovative French
CAPRICE
Style/ambiance | On the checklist of all connoisseurs, three-Michelin-starred Caprice trades the conventional formality of French cuisine for a fresh, innovative take on traditional classics. With the interior offering a fusion of designs, the aesthetics of France and China blend to offer the concept and dining experience of Chinoiserie. Three spectacular private dining rooms host up to 16 guests and boast sea views. The exclusive Caprice cellar houses Hong Kongs largest selection of artisanal French cheeses and carefully selected wines from Burgundy and Bordeaux as well as some New World vintages. VIP contact | Jeremy Evrard, Restaurant Manager Phone | +852 3196 8860 Email | jeremy.evrard@fourseasons.com Address | Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central Web | www.fourseasons.com/hongkong/dining/caprice Cuisine | Innovative French
BO INNOVATION
Style/ambiance | Molecular gastronomy is where science and cooking meet. It is all about absolute precision and changing the chemical processes that occur while cooking. Fusing local cuisine with molecular gastronomy is a specialty of the wildly creative Alvin Leung Jr. presenting unique taste bombs from his ultra-modern X-treme Chinese brand. A private dining area allows guests a VIP experience and the open kitchen layout only adds to the excitement. Phone | +852 2850 8371 Email | dine@boinnovation.com Address | 2nd Floor, J Residence, 60 Johnston Road, Wan Chai Web | www.boinnovation.com Cuisine | Molecular gastronomy
LATELIER DE JEL ROBUCHON

Style/ambiance | World-
LUNG KING HEEN

Style/ambiance | The first Chinese chef to be awarded the accolade of three Michelin stars, Chan Yan Tak upscales the textures and ingredients of traditional Cantonese cuisine to refresh and excite jaded taste buds. Lung King Heen translates as view of the dragon, and the decor reflects this. Dominated by silver and glass, it replicates the dramatic Hong Kong skyline. A private dining room features murals, a low crystal chandelier and a silver-gilded ceiling to amplify positive feng shui. VIP contact | Michael Lau, Restaurant Manager Phone | +852 3196 8880 Email | michael.lau@fourseasons.com Address | Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central Web | www.fourseasons.com/hongkong/dining/lung_king_heen Cuisine | Contemporary Cantonese
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renowned Jol Robuchon is the highest Michelin-starred chef in the world, with 26 in total awarded Kongs to his restaurants has earned across the globe, and Hong LAtelier him two of these stars. The contemporary chic dcor at LAtelier contrasts red velvet seating with dark furnishing, whilst a seat around the open kitchen allows customers to witness the exquisite dishes being prepared. The menu offers variations on French classics in innovative tapas portions. Phone | +852 2166 9000 Email | reservation@robuchon.hk Address | 4th Floor, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queens Road, Central Website | www.robuchon.hk Cuisine | East/West fusion
Where to be pampered & best shopping areas | Hong Kong
WHERE TO BE PAMPERED
PLATEAU SPA
Treatment and facilities | The Plateau Spa is a true resort spa experience where pools, a waterfall and extensive landscaping combine to form a peaceful oasis in the middle of Hong Kong for privacy, seclusion and escape. Plateaus specialist therapists provide total relaxation through massage and reflexology in private treatment rooms within the award-winning, tranquil spa setting. Signature treatments | Plateau Massage and Renovateur Revitalisant. VIP contact | Esther Tong, Spa Manager Phone | +852 2584 7688 Email | plateau.hkggh@hyatt.com Address | Grand Hyatt Hotel, 1 Harbor Road Web | www.hongkong.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/pure/spas
THE PENINSULA SPA BY ESPA

Treatment and facilities | Offering a deeply personalized spa experience, state-of-the-art treatment rooms and sweeping views over Victoria Harbour, The Peninsula Spa by ESPA is an oasis of calm in the city where guests can renew themselves in body, mind and spirit. ESPA Spas are legendary and worldrenowned, not merely because ESPA products are so meticulously sourced and their therapists so well trained, but because their treatments are so innovative and their spa designs so pioneering. Signature treatments | The Peninsula Spa by ESPA offers a unique fusion of Oriental, Ayurvedic and European therapies, delivered by expertly skilled ESPA-trained therapists for optimum refinement. VIP contact | Sharon Codner, Spa Director Phone | +852 2315 3322 Email | sharoncodner@peninsula.com Address | Peninsula Hotel, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Web | www.peninsula.com/hongkong
BEST SHOPPING AREAS
LADIES NIGHT MARKET
THE LEE GARDENS MALL

Situated in Causeway Bay and Times Square, one of Hong Kongs most famous shopping districts, the Lee Gardens Mall is an oasis of elegance and open spaces. With a uniquely relaxing ambiance, the mall houses a high concentration of top international designer boutiques, making it a treasure trove of luxury brands for the elite shopper. Phone | +852 2907 2166
ISPA
Treatment and facilities | The first spa in Hong Kong to incorporate the principles of feng shui into an urban retreat design, the ISpa has five private granite-clad spa suites, each with an individual sauna, Jacuzzi and steam shower. Practice Tai Chi and yoga on the terrace around the three infinity pools, each with different temperatures, and indulge in holistic Oriental healing treatments in the outdoor cabanas to relax, rejuvenate and rebalance in front of the stunning Victoria Harbour backdrop. Signature treatment | The Romantic Retreat lasts approximately three hours and includes an aromatic salt scrub, a 60-minute massage, a 30-minute head massage or reflexology and a facial from a vast menu of options. VIP contact | Thea Wong, Spa Director Phone | +852 2721 1211 Email | hkghc_spa@interconti.com Address | Intercontinental Hotel, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Web | www.intercontinental.com
Address | 33 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay Website | www.leegardens.com.hk
IFC MALL
The IFC Mall offers a fashion Mecca of international brands, with city flagship and new concept stores. Under the landmark IFC towers, the four-storey mall also houses a state-of-the-art beauty center, eateries overlooking Victoria Harbour and a luxury cinema. Phone | +852 2295 3308 Address | 8 Finance Street, Central Website | www.ifc.com/hk
THE PENINSULA ARCADE

One of the oldest fashion arcades in Hong Kong, The Peninsula Hotel hosts the most prominent local and international fashion brand names on the basement, ground and mezzanine floor arcade. Old English tailors Gieves & Hawkes can be found here alongside global luxury brands Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. Phone | +852 2920 2888 Address | 3 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon Websit | www.peninsula.com/hongkong
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Marinas | Hong Kong
Marinas
From its roots as just a dozen fishing villages, Hong Kong now comprises 263 islands and the famous Kowloon Peninsula. Dividing the skyscrapers and lights of the city is the deep-water Victoria Harbour, the basis for Hong Kongs early establishment and trade development. Venturing away from its entrance, the archipelago has a wealth of natural harbors and serene bays for exploration. Along the way, established yacht clubs offer fine hospitality and peaceful retreats, and the annual Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show hosts the latest in yachting technology and luxury.
CLUB MARINA COVE

Club Marina Cove offers a brand new concept in social and country clubs. Situated among the scenic beauty of the Sai Kung Peninsula, the club provides a unique retreat for the discerning elite. Its picturesque marina setting, stylish design and modernistic fittings provide a rendezvous for total entertainment and relaxation to complement an exclusive lifestyle. Berthing is available for yachts up to 30 meters. Phone | +852 2719 6622 Email | cmcltd@netvigator.com address | 380 Hirams Highway, Sai Kung, Kowloon Web | www.clubmarinacove.com
SHANGRI-LA HoTeLS AND ReSoRTS
ABERDEEN MARINA CLUB

Aberdeen Marina Club remains one of Hong Kongs most sophisticated maritime institutions; its clubhouse restaurants, banqueting areas and firstclass sports facilities have been favored by Hong Kongs yachting elite since 1984. But, more importantly, its location in the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter means that it is Hong Kongs best-situated, fully-serviced marina, catering for yachts up to 30 meters. Phone | +852 2553 0800 Email | marina@aberdeenmarinaclub.com address | Shum Wan Road, Aberdeen Web | www.aberdeenmarinaclub.com
GOLD COAST YACHT AND COUNTRY CLUB

The Gold Coast Yacht and Country Club is Hong Kongs premier marina, country club and spa combination. Comprehensive amenities are available, with superior recreational and sporting activities also on offer at this exclusive private playground. The spacious and well-designed club warmly welcomes members and close associates into an atmosphere that surpasses the standards of most international country club and resorts. Berthing is available for yachts up to 70 meters. Phone | +852 2404 2222 Email | generalmanager@goldcoastclub.com.hk address | 1 Castle Peak Road, Castle Peak Bay, New Territories Web | www.goldcoastclub.com.hk
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Concierge recommendations | Hong Kong
CONCIERGE RECOMMENDATIONS
We asked Hong Kongs top concierges to share their personal recommendations for the perfect day. Take a tip from these insiders
Chief Concierge | Louis BaLeros | INTERCONTINENTAl Phone | +852 2721 1211 Email | concierge_ichongkong@interconti.com MORNING Board the iconic star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong island. From there, take a taxi to the western end of Hollywood road, take a look inside the Man Mo temple then stroll eastwards down Hollywood road, stopping off in the antique shops and art galleries along the way. Hollywood road then intersects with the Mid-Levels escalator, which connects the Mid-Levels residential area to the Central Business District. stroll along the escalator path and check out the little boutiques and local market on Graham street and Peel street, as well as staunton street. Make your way to Wyndham street, which is filled with trendy restaurants, pubs, nightclubs and art galleries. Continue to Queens road Central, where youll find upscale shopping at The Landmark and the quaintly restored Pedder Building. if you start to get hungry, stop off at Dragon-i for a dim sum lunch. in the late evening, Dragon-i becomes one of the citys hippest clubbing venues. AFTERNOON return to Kowloon by the star Ferry and stroll down Canton road, where you will find many designer megastores as well as Harbour City, the largest shopping mall in Hong Kong. Go across the street to check out 1881 Heritage, a beautifully restored colonial building, formerly the Marine Police Headquarters and now home to luxury brand boutiques and top jewelers. Take a taxi to the jade market, where you will find a vast assortment of semi-precious carvings, trinkets and souvenirs. Dont forget to negotiate! EVENING relax with a 45-minute pre-dinner cocktail cruise on board Aqua Luna, a beautiful authentic Chinese junk. if you take the 7.30pm cruise, you can enjoy the nightly symphony of Lights at 8pm. its also a fabulous way to view Victoria Harbour and the amazing skyline, especially at night before setting off for dinner. afterwards, return to interContinental Hong Kong for a nightcap and one of the signature Nine Dragon Cocktails in the Lobby Lounge, which offers dramatic views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong island skyline, along with live music by guest jazz artists. BEST RESTAuRANTS 1. Yan Toh Heen, featuring Michelin-starred Cantonese cuisine in an understated, elegant ambiance with exquisite hand-carved jade place settings and a panoramic view of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong island. Address | interContinental Hotel, 18 salisbury road, Tsim sha Tsui, Kowloon 2. For an authentic local dining experience, try the seafront Chuen Kee Seafood Restaurant in sai Kung. Go to the fish tanks to select your meal and minutes later, your freshly-cooked seafood appears in front of you. Address | 87-89 Man Nin street, sai Kung
3. For a private kitchen dining experience, Da Ping Huo offers a nightly 12-course set menu, using authentic and family-style sichuan recipes. after the meal, the owners wife will sing excerpts from a Chinese opera for you. Address | Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood road, Central 4. For a romantic setting, spoon by alain Ducasse showcases contemporary French cuisine with a stylish ambiance and stunning harbor views. Address | interContinental Hotel, 18 salisbury road, Tsim sha Tsui, Kowloon 5. For a more asian experience, Nobu InterContinental Hong Kong showcases world-famous Nobu Matsuhisas innovative new-style Japanese cuisine. Address | interContinental Hotel, 18 salisbury road, Tsim sha Tsui, Kowloon
Chief Concierge | MaryaNN aBoo
| ISlAND SHANGRI-lA
Phone | +852 2820 8301 Email | isl@shangri-la.com HIGHlIGHTS OF HONG KONG Begin with an early morning Tai Chi lesson, learning the graceful movements from an experienced master, beside the outdoor pool of the island shangri-La hotel. Take the Mass Transit railway from Hong Kong island to Kowloon to visit the Hong Kong Museum of History and Planetarium. For lunch, try the newlyopened Xiao Nan Guo Premier at one Peking road in Tsim sha Tsui, which offers incredible shanghainese dumplings. in the afternoon, visit the jade market, a haven for jade lovers and collectors with over 450 small stalls displaying everything from rare carvings to inexpensive trinkets. Then take the star Ferry back to Hong Kong island. in the evening, take the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak, which climbs so steeply that the buildings look like theyre leaning at a 45-degree angle. at the top, youll be amazed by the spectacular view of the surrounding city skyline. BEST RESTAuRANT restaurant Petrus at island shangri-La commands breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour and serves the highest standard of French cuisine. it has one of asias largest wine cellars with over 12,000 bottles and features a premium Petrus collection and extensive vintages from other famous chteaux. BEST SHOPPING Vivienne Tam, Barney Cheng, Walter Ma, ruby Li and Lu Lu Cheung are some of the best local designers. Both Barney Cheng and Lu Lu Cheungs stores are located in Central, ruby Lis store is in Causeway Bay, Walter Mas store is in Tsim sha Tsui and one of Vivienne Tams is in Pacific Place. BEST THINGS TO DO Find curios and unique souvenirs at stanley Market on Hong Kong island, Temple street Night Market in Jordan and the Ladies Market in Mongkok.
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BEFORE YOU GO
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sinGapore
95
Highlights | Singapore
Positioned on a sovereign island of the same name, the city of Singapore is one of Southeast Asias most vibrant destinations. Lying at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula and north of some of Indonesias most exclusive islands, this international metropolis promises an exciting and luxurious experience for the elite traveler. Singapore has a diverse population, rich history and offers an intriguing mix of modern and traditional, with humid breezes and the scent of jasmine contrasting with the shopping malls and cutting-edge technology. As regular visitors will tell you, people come to Singapore for two reasons: the food and the shopping. We have selected the best of both in this guide to Singapore, which provides the perfect introduction to the modern marvels and historic charm of this wonderful island city.
HigHligHts
SENTOSA ISLAND DAY TRIP
Sentosa Island lies south of Singapore and is connected to the mainland by a causeway. One of the regions must-visits, the area boasts some exceptional attractions, including the Tiger Sky Tower (Singapores tallest viewing tower), Fort Siloso and the Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom. In addition, some of the countrys finest beaches are situated on this two-square-mile island. While there are many transport links from the mainland, we recommend taking the VIP Jewel Cable Car. Providing 360-degree views of Singapore, the harbor and Sentosa Island, its a breathtaking ride.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS VIP TOUR

Bringing a slice of Hollywood glamour to your trip, the Universal Studios VIP Tour at Resorts World Sentosa is the ultimate theme park experience. A knowledgeable VIP Tour Guide will make you feel like a celebrity as they personally escort you around the Parks attractions. In addition to the Studios Tour, youll receive the red-carpet treatment with fast-track priority access to the rides and shows, so no waiting in line. In addition, VIP guests will benefit from an array of exclusive highlights, including a private photo session with Universal Studios characters and dining at certain venues around the park.
SINGAPORE FLYER
Experience the true height of luxury with extravagant views of Singapores skyline, while sipping on the finest champagne. At 165 meters tall, Singapore Flyer is the largest observation wheel in the world. Perfect for impressing friends, or discerning business colleagues, Elite Traveler recommends taking the Mot and Chandon Flight to enjoy magnificent champagne along with strawberries and chocolate as you are smoothly elevated from the hustle of the city. Alternatively, for a more romantic mood, a lavish and private meal can be arranged for over an hours rotation. The Full Butler Sky Dining service includes a three-course dining menu made to order by your own personal chef. Celebrity chefs, such as Stanley Jong, have previously served their culinary creations in the Singapore Flyer, making it a venue for some of the worlds most exclusive dining.
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Where to stay | Singapore
WhERE TO STAy
THE FULLERTON HOTEL

Old world meets new in this impressive hotel, with its rare marriage of beautifully restored 1920s exterior architecture and modern luxury within. Perfect for the elite traveler looking to experience both history and high style, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore offers an enchanting mix of the two. Among other benefits, guests can enjoy a daily champagne breakfast in a private dining room, afternoon tea, evening cocktails with canaps, and complimentary internet. VIP contact | Giovanni Viterale, General Manager Phone | +65 6533 8388 Email | reservations@fullertonhotel.com Address | 1 Fullerton Square, 049178 Web | www.fullertonhotel.com TOP SUITE: PRESIDENTIAL SUITE Square footage | 2,100 Nightly rate | $6,900 Why we love it | We think this ultra-exclusive Hirsch Bedner Associatesdesigned suite is the epitome of elegance, with luxurious dcor such as impressive pillars, mother-of-pearl-adorned furnishings and a baby grand piano. Polished marble floors complete the look of old-world grandeur. Offering complete exclusivity, this Presidential Suite has its own private elevator, in addition to a dining room, living room and entertainment area. An adjoining air-conditioned, glass-encased veranda makes for easy
RAFFLES HOTEL
Raffles is, without doubt, Singapores most famous and best-loved hotel and was declared a National Monument in 1987. After its multi-million dollar restoration and reopening in 1991, the hotel is now the jewel in the crown of the citys hospitality industry, renowned for its service as much as its facilities. Founded by four enterprising Armenian brothers, the hotel opened in 1887 as the Beach House and was later re-named in honor of Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore. Over the years, the hotel has evolved into one of the worlds most acclaimed grand hotels and welcomed countless celebrities, including Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor and Charlie Chaplin. VIP contact | Pierre Jochem, General Manager Phone | +65 6337 1886 Email | pierre.jochem@raffles.com Address | 1 Beach Road, 189673 Web | www.raffles.com/singapore TOP SUITE: SARKIES SUITE Square footage | 2,800 Nightly rate | $3,500 Why we love it | Elite Traveler loves this hotel because it has continuously upgraded itself but still managed to do so without losing its charm, and the same can be said about its top suite. Named after the first owners of the hotel, the two-bedroom Sarkies Suite offers a generously sized living area, private dining room, and charming veranda. Oriental carpets complement exquisite teak flooring, while art enthusiasts can enjoy the wonderful collection of original 19th- and 20th-century prints, drawings and photographs that have been installed throughout. Special amenities include RafflesAmrita Spa products, a Bose stereo and Tiffany silver flatware.
entertaining. Round-the-clock butlers assist each guest.
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Where to dine | Singapore
WHERE TO DINE
When it comes to taste, nowhere in Asia boasts a smorgasbord of global cuisines quite like Singapore. And its recent proliferation of European restaurants means the visitor has even more gastronomical variety to choose from. Here are some of our recommendations.
XI YAN
Style/ambiance | Diners expecting exclusive banquets will, without doubt, be impressed by the contemporary Chinese/Asian cuisine at Xi Yan. As an exclusive, private venue, diners are offered 12 courses for their delectation. Xi Yan private dining was first conceived in the year 2000 by celebrity chef Jacky Yu in Hong Kong and eventually opened its Singapore branch in 2005. At Xi Yan, they consider their dishes to be a true art form and each one is prepared impeccably. Being a strong favorite among critics since its conception, this restaurant often welcomes famous faces, but is also popular with those simply interested in good food. VIP contact | Keith Chen, Guests Manager Phone | +65 6220 3546 Email | keith@xiyan.com.sg Address | 38A Craig Rd, 089676 Web | www.xiyan.com.sg Cuisine | Chinese
SAINT PIERRE
Style/ambiance | Saint Pierre, the brainchild of owner Chef Emmanuel Stroobant and his wife Edina Hong opened its doors in December 2000 and is now part of Relaix & Chateauxs Grand Chef group. Situated in the Central Mall, the restaurant serves a delightful selection of delicate French cuisine, and has become a staple for frequent visitors to the city. VIP contact | Edina Hong, Guests Manager Phone | +65 6438 0887 Email | info@saintpierre.com.sg Address | 5 Magazine Road, 59571 Web | www.saintpierre.com.sg Cuisine | French
NOVUS
Style/ambiance | Novus is magnificently located within the National Museum, providing a striking mix of modern interiors juxtaposed against colonial grandeur. This restaurant offers a quintessential dining experience that includes fresh and current interpretations of European cuisine. Such a remarkable setting combined with gastronomy makes Novus an ideal selection for those desiring a formal dining experience. Phone | +65 6336 8770 Email | eddy@novus.sg Address | National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd, 178897 Web | www.novus.sg Cuisine | Modern European
EQUINOX
Style/ambiance | For dinner with a stunning view over Singapore, restaurant. elegant we recommend in the the elite traveler visits Equinox Seated amphitheater-style
AU JARDIN BY LES AMIS

Style/ambiance | This restaurant is incredibly intimate with only 12 tables, seating a maximum of 45 people. It has been beautifully created to mimic a French chateau-styled establishment. Ideal for romantic dining, Au Jardin is also the perfect venue for business lunches and dinners. Featuring delicate flavors and light sauces to create an exceptional French cuisine, there is a unique set of signature dishes to enjoy. There is also an eight-course degustation menu, which varies according to the season. Phone | +65 6466 8812 Email | aujardin@lesamis.com.sh Address | EJH Corner House, Botanical Garden Visitors Center, Cluny Road Website | www.lesamis.com Cuisine | French
restaurant, expect to be awed by three-story-high teak and rice paper lanterns, Minginspired wooden trellises and a luminous wall made entirely from mother of pearl. This is international cuisine at its best. VIP contact | Philipp Gantner, General Manager Phone | +65 6837 3322 Email | reservations@equinoxcomplex.com Address | Swisstel The Stamford, 2 Stamford Road, 017882 Web | www.swissotel.com Cuisine | International
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Where to be pampered & best shopping areas | Singapore
WHERE TO BE PAMPERED
the oriental Spa at Mandarin oriental
Treatment and facilities | The Oriental Spa at the Mandarin Oriental has six treatment rooms, including a spacious couples suite with steam room, bath tubs by agape and an opium bed. Designed with natural materials including walnut timber flooring and intricate Asian motifs, guests are enveloped in a natural, warm earthy ambiance. Signature treatments | Elite clientele are often attracted to this venue by the rejuvenating AHA, Detox Mud, Rose Hydrating and Holistic Mineral Wrap.
Spa Botanica
Treatment and facilities | Set in the grounds of The Sentosa Resort & Spa, on the idyllic island of Sentosa, this award-winning health resort is Singapores first garden destination spa and home to Asias first therapeutic mud pools. We believe guests will especially enjoy the waterfall and labyrinths, ideal for meditative walks. Built on the concept of a botanical garden, their five indoor rooms are named after local spices, along with six outdoor treatment pavilions named after popular local floral blooms. Since its inception, Spa Botanica is constantly ranked among the best destination spas in the world. Signature treatments | Among their signature treatments are Topical Glow, Galaxy Mud Detox in addition to a variety of massages. Spa Director | Caroline Lim Phone | +65 6371 1142 Email | caroline.lim@thesentosa.com Address | 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa, 099891 Web | www.spabotanica.com
Other signature treatments include Aromatherapy Body Scrub, Rose Hydrating Cocoon Wrap and the Oriental Symphony. Spa Director | Wendy Stephen Phone | +65 6885 3533 Email | mosin-spa@mohg.com Address | 5 Raffles Avenue, Marina Square, 039797 Web | www.mandarinoriental.com
BEST SHOPPING AREAS

orchard road
Named after the trees that line this street, Orchard Road is Singapores major shopping and nightlife district. Rivaling New Yorks Fifth Avenue for high-end fashion and entertainment, Orchard Road provides some of the finest shopping in Asia, whether its purchasing a 24K gold-plated chandelier, or visiting the worldfamous Alley Bar on a Wednesday night after a leisurely day of shopping. Along with some of the citys grandest hotels, Orchard Road is also a hot destination for lovers of high-tech equipment and the latest in digital gaming. While some of the worlds major luxury brands occupy the buildings behind the orchard faade, others are tucked away in the roads famous shopping mallsbelow we have selected two of the finest. This is an area not to be missed!
WiSMa atria
Awarded the Superbrands Singapore status from 2004 to 2007, Wisma Atria has earned the reputation of being one of the most established shopping malls in the city. The 230,000-square foot shopping center has five floors of retail space accommodating 94 specialty stores in the heart of famous Orchard Road. The center attracts locals, tourists and business people and has become a firm favorite among elite travelers.
SpaBoutique
Treatment and facilities | Those looking to rejuvenate in the heart of the city should look no further than this calm, urban oasis in the center of Singapores shopping district. Surprisingly, Spaboutique is surrounded by nature and offers the finest in massage therapy, facials, hair treatment, spa retreats and outdoor wellness classes in a beautiful setting. Signature treatment | Quantum Raindrop Therapy allows droplets of warm oil to fall onto the spine like droplets of rain. After your mind has been calmed by this repetitive action, a sequence of oils is applied and massaged into your skin. Spa Director | Maisie Felicia Junardy Phone | +65 6887 0760 Email | info@spaboutique.com.sg Address | 6 Nassim Road, 258373 Web | www.spaboutique.com.sg
Phone | +65 6235 8177 Address | Wisma Atria, 435 Orchard Rd, 238877 Website | www.wismaonline.com
palaiS renaiSSance
Palais Renaissance is one of the finest malls in Singapore, with a reputation for style and glamour. Easily accessible along Orchard Road, the mall is a haven for those looking for world-class brands from top designers, and is frequented by members of the wealthiest communities of Singapore. The perfect place for brands, Palais Renaissance features DKNY, Croco Mondalli by Kwanpen, Giuseppe Zanotti, Vanilla Home among many others. Phone | +65 6877 1818 Address | 390 Orchard Road, 238871 Websit | www.palais.sg
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Marinas | Singapore
Marinas
Being a coastal city, Singapore boasts miles of stunning coastline as well as proximity to renowned vast opportunities for sailing, from the islands of Malaysia to the coast of Thailand. With our pick of marinas, all able to accommodate yachts of at least 200 feet, there is plenty to attract superyacht owners from around the world.
MARINA AT KEPPEL BAY

This marina is the centerpiece of Keppel Bays premier waterfront precinct, the only residential development in Singapore to have its own world-class marina on its own private island. The marina offers 168 berths with facilities for superyachts up to 85 meters. Crossing to the island is made freely accessible via a 245-meter cable-stayed bridge. The dual-carriageway bridge with pedestrian walkways will take visitors on a panoramic route with views of Sentosa, Resorts World at Sentosa and the skyline of the financial and business districts. It is the only harbor in Singapore that has both sea and hill views among the urban landscape. Alongside the world-class berthing, there are fine dining restaurants, beautifully landscaped grounds and even a sailing academy, making this marina one of Asias top marina and lifestyle destinations. ViP contact | Trevor Fong, Corporate Communication Phone | +65 6303 8448 Email | enquiry@marinakeppelbay.com address | 2 Keppel Bay Vista, 098382 Website | www.marinakeppelbay.com
RAFFLES MARINA
Raffles Marina is situated on the west side of Singapore and is only 20 minutes from major shopping centers on Orchard Road. The location of the marina is a prime launching spot for those heading to the beautiful islands of Langkawi, Malaysia, and Phuket, Thailand. The marina specializes in superyachts up to 100 meters and has 300 dry-berths for boats up to ten meters. The solid breakwater gives a minimum depth of five meters at low tide, enabling yachts to come and go at any time. But one of the real draws of Raffles Marina is the high level of customer service alongside exceptional clubhouse facilities, such as restaurants, pubs, bowling and a gymnasium. ViP contact | Steven Sam, Club Manager Phone | +65 6869 2211 Email | recept@rafflesmarina.com.sg address | 10 Tuas West Drive, 638404 Web | www.rafflesmarina.com.sg
SENTOSA COVE
Sentosa Cove is a truly unique waterfront development that has changed the shores and skylines of Singapore. It is the first development of its kind to offer a marina-oriented lifestyle with an upmarket quayside retail and residential enclave. Imagine the shimmering ocean as your neighbor and a world-class golf course in your backyard. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Sentosa Cove accommodates yachts up to 60 meters, with all the comforts and conveniences of modern living within easy reach. Phone | +65 6305 6999 Email | dockmaster@one15marina.com address | 01-01, 11 Cove Drive, Sentosa Cove, 098497 Web | www.sentosacove.com
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Concierge recommendations | Singapore
CONCIERGE RECOMMENDATIONS
We asked singapores top concierges to share their personal recommendations for the perfect day
Guest Services Manager | Musa anshari | MANDARIN ORIENTAl Phone | +65 6885 3000 Email | musaa@mohg.com Musa recommends that you start your day with an indulgent breakfast buffet at MELT a multi-cultural dining smorgasbordthen head to Old school, a privately run arts center atop Mount sophia where you can enjoy the independent creative scene. Live music by up-and-coming bands are showcased here and galleries display diverse art pieces. You can also catch local asian films at the sinema Theatre. For lunch, head to absinthe, a charming French restaurant on the fringes of Chinatown. afterwards, why not discover the bustling streets nearby and pick up a chic souvenir or two before heading to haji Lanea quaint bohemian district bursting with designer boutiques. For dinner, kick back and relax at Blu Jaz Caf, a popular boho-style caf-cum-lounge bar with world-class live music, ranging from jazz quintets to Latin bands. End the evening on a 282-meter highthe stunning panoramic city view from 1-altitude, a bar and restaurant at the top of One raffles Place. BEST RESTAuRANTS 1. Jaan par Andr Cuisine | Fusion fine dining Address | swisstel The stamford, 2 stamford road, 178882 2. Au Petit Salut Cuisine | French Address | 40C harding rd, 249548 3. Cherry Garden Cuisine | Cantonese Address | Mandarin Oriental, 5 raffles avenue, Marina square, 039797 BEST SHOP 1. Books Actually Address | 9 Yong siak street, Tiong Bahru, 168645 BEST TO DO 1. Catch the sunset from 1-altitude with a whiskey in your hand.
Assistant Front Office Manager | CarOLina LEE | THE SCARlET HOTEl Phone | +65 6511 3311 Email | carolinalee@thescarlethotel.com BEST RESTAuRANTS To experience local food, Carolina recommends the following dining destinations: the Maxwell Food Centre, East Coast Lagoon Food Village, Lau Pa sat and the newton Food Centre. But for fine dining, you can do no better than the no sign Board seafood venue at The Esplanade, Banana Leaf apolo at race Course road for great indian cuisine and True Blue Cuisine at armenian street for authentic Peranakan food. BEST SHOPPING The trendy shopping malls of singapore showcase the best the city has to offer, which include iOn Orchard, ngee ann City, Paragon and 313@somerset. But Carolina also suggests offbeat shopping at smaller venues such as arab street, haji Lane, holland Village, Chinatown and Little india. BEST TO DO 1. The Night Safari The worlds first nocturnal zoo. Exploring the different trails, visitors are able to see how the animals behave in their natural habitats at night. 2. Singapore Flyer The worlds largest observation wheel, standing at the height of a 42-story building (165 meters) offers one of the best views of singapore. 3. Sentosa Island singapores favorite playground, teeming with events and special programs all year round, including attractions such as underwater World singapore, Dolphin Lagoon, Fort siloso, and many more. 4. Marina Bay Sands a world-class luxury casino, entertainment and high-fashion shopping are all within this remarkable building. 5. The Merlion no trip would be complete without a visit to singapores most iconic landmark. 6. Party People Enjoy the nightlife at Zouk, Clarke Quay, The Cannery, st James Power station and Timbre among others. 7. Culture Vultures Enjoy a visit to the Peranankan Museum at armenian street, the asian Civilization Museum at Empress Place, the national Museum of singapore at stamford road, the Chinatown heritage Centre at Pagoda street and the Malay heritage Centre at sultan Gate.
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Top ocean suites | Canada & US
suites
Top ocean
We s t C o a s t N o r t h A m e r i c a
Superyachting your way down (or up) the stunning western coast of North America? These hotels, many of which made it onto our exclusive Top 101 Suites list for 2011, are well worth checking in to, even if it means a quick private jet hop.
BY DREW TAYLOR
Rooftop patio, Chairmans Suite
Fairmont Paci c Rim

CHAIRMANS SUITE VANCOUVER, CANADA Square footage | 2,250 Why we love it | Spread out over two stories, with a private rooftop patio and a gazebo with re pit, this expanse has enticed the likes of Lady Gaga and Jon Bon Jovi since its opening late last year. Clean, cool interiors allow the impressive harbor viewsshowcased through oor-toceiling windowsto shine. Rate | From $6,000 Contact | General Manager Randy Zupanski, +1 604 695 5300; randy.zupanski@fairmont.com; www.fairmont.com/pacicrim
e Ritz-Carlton San Francisco

THE RITZ-CARLTON SUITE SAN FRANCISCO, US Square footage | 1,980 Why we love it | With panoramic views of the city skyline and San Francisco Bay, a living room with a
Steinway grand piano and private dining with seating for eight, the hotels top accommodation is the apex of luxury. Guests of this suite have access to a 24-hour multilingual concierge. Rate | $6,000 Contact | Executive Assistant to the General Manager Shelly Auyeung, +1 415 296 7465; shelly.auyeung@ritzcarlton.com; www.ritzcarlton.com
Living area, The Ritz-Carlton Suite
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Top ocean suites | US
ARIA Resort & Casino

SKY VILLA 18 LAS VEGAS, US Square footage | 6,490 Why we love it | Set in the heart of the Strip, this three-bedroom, two-story sanctuary offers a laundry list of luxe amenities. Youll nd a massage room, billiard room, private salon and state-of-the-art gym within its walls. Should you want for anything during your stay, a personalized concierge and 24-hour butler can handle any request. Rate | From $7 ,500 Contact | Director of Sky Suites Operations Melissa Bailey, +1 702 590 9550; mbailey@arialasvegas.com; www.arialasvegas.com Billiard room, Sky Villa 18
Living area, Spanish Villa
Caesars Palace Las Vegas

SPANISH VILLA, LAS VEGAS, US Square footage | 8,170 Why we love it | Vaulted ceilings, marble oors and hand-painted wall murals transport guests of this impressive villa to another world. But while the design feels old world, the amenitieswhich include a home entertainment theater and OSIM massage chairsare anything but. Rate | $40,000 Contact | Director of VIP Operations Patty Kripitz, +1 702 731 7866; kripitzp@caesarspalace.com; www.caesarspalace.com
Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

EMPEROR SUITE, LAS VEGAS, US Square footage | 3,000 Why we love it | Top-level technology meets inspired contemporary design in the dramatic Emperor Suite, which, rumor has it, has welcomed big names like Sean Combs and Will Smith. A gourmet kitchen and media room with Bang & Olufsen surround sound make A-list types feel right at home. Rate | From $12,500 Contact | General Manager Rajesh Jhingon, +1 702 590 8888; reservations@mohg.com; www.mandarinoriental.com/lasvegas
Media room, Emperor Suite
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Top ocean suites | Europe US
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

BenTeL & BenTeL PenThouSe SuiTeS: Mandrake SuiTe LaS VegaS, uS Square footage | 4,395 Why we love it | With sweeping views of the Strip and striking design components like a set of illuminated glass sculptures, this apartment-style accommodation was made for entertainingjust ask Leonardo DiCaprio, who recently held a party for 50 here. rate | From $25,000 Contact | VP of Hotel Operations Cindy OKeefe, +1 702 698 7000; Living area, Mandrake Suite cindy.okeefe@cosmopolitanlasvegas.com; www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

PenThouSe SuiTe LoS angeLeS, uS Square footage | 5,000 Why we love it | On Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, this hotel will always be legendary for the role it played in Pretty Woman. The recently unveiled, sprawling Penthouse Suite has an exhibition kitchen and media room and comes with the loan of a Porsche Panamera. All the usual, but none of the extraneous trappings of luxury pertain. rate | From $25,000 Contact | General Manager Radha Arora, +1 310 275 5200; radha.arora@fourseasons.com; www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire Master bedroom, Penthouse Suite
Living area, Penthouse Suite east
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

PenThouSe SuiTe eaST LoS angeLeS, uS Square footage | 3,235 Why we love it | After a full renovation was completed this January, the star accommodation at this Beverly Hills icon now provides its VIP clientele with a custom bulthaup kitchen, two gleaming marble bathrooms and a private office adorned with contemporary art. Guests of the suite drive in style during their stay with complimentary use of a luxury car (options include a Maserati and a Rolls-Royce). rate | $9,850 Contact | General Manager Mehdi Eftekari, +1 310 786 2201; mehdi.eftekari@fourseasons.com; www.fourseasons.com/losangeles
Top ocean suites | US
The Beverly Hills Hotel

PresidenTial Bungalows los angeles, us square footage | Nearly 5,000 why we love them | Newly unveiled this summer, the Presidential Bungalows are two of the largest presidential accommodations in Los Angeles. With an emphasis on indoor/outdoor living, each boasts a landscaped garden with pool, a dining area with nighttime illumination and the citys only private outdoor showers. rate | From $13,610 to $15,380 Contact | General Manager Ed Mady, +1 800 283 8885; living and dining area, Presidential Bungalows info@beverlyhillshotel.com; www.beverlyhillshotel.com
dining area, Penthouse
The Waikiki Edition

PenThouse honolulu, us square footage | 1,500 why we love it | The list of this newly opened hotels former guests reads like a whos who of young Hollywood, with starlets like Christina Aguilera and Vanessa Hudgens setting up camp in the posh Penthouse. Yabu Pushelbergs easy, breezy interiors allow the unrivaled Pacific Ocean views and spa-like teak and terrazzo bathrooms to take center stage. rate | $9,995 Contact | General Manager Michael Rock, +1 808 943 5800; michael.rock@editionhotels.com; www.editionhotels.com
The Ritz-Carlton , Los Angeles

The riTz-CarlTon suiTe los angeles, us square footage | 3,000 why we love it | Offering panoramic views from its post on the hotels 25th floor, this top accommodation has reportedly welcomed A-listers like Jennifer Lopez and Denzel Washington since its opening last spring. The suites sleek design incorporates luxuries like an open entertainment area with a 50-inch flat panel HD TV. rate | $7 ,500 Contact | General Manager Javier Cano, +1 213 765 8681; javier.cano@ritzcarlton.com; www.ritzcarlton.com Bedroom, The ritz-Carlton suite
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Top ocean suites | US & Mexico
The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

KAMEHAMEHA SUITE HONOLULU, US Square footage | 3,292 Why we love it | With a warm Polynesian design scheme inuenced by the Hawaiian monarchy, this kingly suite features an interior lanai furnished for laid-back outdoor dining. The master bedroom overlooks scenic Diamond Head crater and Waikiki Beach. Rate | $7 ,500 Contact | General Manager Kelly Hoen, +1 808 931 7913; kelly.hoen@luxurycollection.com; www.royal-hawaiian.com
Outdoor terrace, Kamehameha Suite
Grand Solmar Lands End Resort & Spa

FOUR-BEDROOM PENTHOUSE SUITE CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO Square footage | 6,232 Why we love it | Up to 10 can sleep in comfort and style in this expansive estate, which affords residential comforts like a full kitchenouttted with top-name stainless steel appliancesmultiple at-screen satellite TVs and an extended wraparound private terrace with beachfront pool and Jacuzzi. Rate | $1,413 Contact | General Manager Jean Louis Magron, +52 624 146 7745; jlmagron@grandsolmar.com; www.solmar.com Living area, Four-Bedroom Penthouse Suite
Outdoor terrace, Beachfront Villa 14
Hacienda Beach Club & Residences

BEACHFRONT VILLA 14 CABO SAN LUCAS, MEXICO Square footage | 3,424 Why we love it | This gorgeous villa lays claim to the best location on the property, with direct access to swimmable Medano Beach and the shimmering Sea of Cortez, making good use of its enviable locale with extra outdoor living space that includes a grilling and dining area, private innity pool and courtyard. Rate | From $2,900 Contact | General Manager Ricardo Ramirez, +52 624 163 3100; rramirez@cabohacienda.com.mx; www.haciendacabosanlucas.com
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Top ocean suites | Mexico
Villas Del Mar at Palmilla

VILLA 462 SAN JOSE DEL CABO, MEXICO Square footage | 5,200 Why we love it | In addition to its spacious, open-concept interiors, this extraordinary private residence offers an extra 2,200 square feet of outdoor space. Make like former villa guests Robert De Niro and Bono and employ the services of your private butler and chef, or kick back in one of ve inviting bedrooms. Rate | From $4,500 Contact | Managing Director of Resort Services Lionel Alvarez, +52 624 144 5291; lionela@delmarloscabos.com; Terrace, Villa 462 www.delmarescapes.com
Imanta Resort Punta de Mita

CASONA JAGUAR BAHA DE BANDERAS, MEXICO Square footage | 10,000 Why we love it | Youll want to make this your casa while in the Riviera Nayarit. Infusing traditional Mexican dcor with a stylish modern twist, the all-new Casona Jaguar offers private beach access, its own 60-foot innity pool and a rooftop terrace with Jacuzzinot to mention an exclusive, oceanfront setting. Rate | From $5,400 Contact | General Manager Jos Carlos Navarrete, +52 329 291 4200; jcnavarrete@imantaresorts.com; www.imantaresorts.com
Bedroom, Penthouse
Living area, Casona Jaguar
The Fairmont Acapulco Princess

PENTHOUSE ACAPULCO, MEXICO Square footage | 1,375 Why we love it | This world-class resort opened its Pearl Tower last year, unveiling 310 new rooms and suitesincluding the top-level Penthouse, a welcoming retreat with warmly Mexican-inspired interiors and deluxe bathrooms with rain showers. The suite has already drawn such discerning travelers as Bill Clinton and Venus Williams. Rate | From $848 Contact | General Manager Thomas Becker, +52 744 469 1000; thomas.becker@fairmont.com; www.fairmont.com/acapulco
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Sideways | Interior design trends
true
Fabulous fantasies of creativity thunder through the minds and blood streams of owners and designers and splurge onto blank drawing boards from where the next are launched into spectacular turquoise seas.
BY CLAIRE GRIFFITHS
Fantasies come
generation of yachts is dreamt up. Then the dreams
Keech Green creates more land-basedstyle living environments
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This collection of superyacht sweetmeats might ooze opulence, cut a dash in austere sleek practicality or reflect the calming comfort of home sweet home. But a combination of forces means the days of the totally over-the-top are gone, when more marble, more gold, more everything added up to embroider a sometimes uncomfortable pattern that screeched, Look, weve made it! Why? Influences in taste come from many quarters, suggests Ben Harrison, yacht design partner alongside Peder and Ewa Eidsgaard, of Eidsgaard Design. Its a multitude of sources that inform changes in taste, says Ben. Advances in the automobile industry, for example, the worlds five-star-plus hotels, or nature itself, as when a client remembers a wonderful place and wants to transpose that feeling onto the yacht. Its also because theres a new wave of thinking about how and why you want to be on board a boat. All of this means that the chocolate box of superyachts you take your pick from has never been more comforting, more delicious or more surprising. Designer JP Fantini remembers the work of the early 1980s when yacht interiors were classic, grandiose and serious. Wall fabrics were busy; dark, heavy mahogany abounded and swathes of velvet shrouded out the light. Relief ceilings were in, says Fantini,
Below and bottom: Unobtrusive, natural and tactile: wood finishes by Silverlining Furniture
and the colors were generally dark. The bathrooms were marble with gold taps. It was all pretty kitsch and you mustnt forget that budgets were generous and designers let their imaginations run riot. Expert planner, stylist and yacht interior designer Donald Starkey says: While in the past interior
materials would be predominantly a combination of wood panels and fabric, now anything goes. Caroline Fowler, interior designer at Michael Leach might agree, and adds: Interior design is a bit like fashion. Previously, people were prepared to suffer to look good but nowadays they want comfort with their style and the same goes for yacht interiors.
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Right and below: Composites like carbon fibre allow Silverlining to achieve complex structural forms that traditinoal methods on their own could not
The ranks of the yacht interior design crew have changed in recent years and they bring with them fresh eyes and fresh ideas. Whereas up until a few years ago it was the British Bannenbergtrained boys who largely influenced design trends, Peter Hulsemann, General Manager of Deutsche Werkstatten, notes that a swathe of international interior designers are making their impact on todays XXX yachts. Remi Tessier or Philippe Starck are examples of the French, Italian, German or American names who dont necessarily have a superyacht interior design background. One notable duo is Graham Green and Michael Keech, of Keech Green Ltd, former designers at Ralph Lauren who have won accolades for their work on the award winning Blind Date. Their land-based retail and residential design experience is now well known to be making waves out at sea. Graham explains: We werent keen on the general layout of furniture fitted to the walls around the edge
of the rooms. So we made gaps and gave furniture plinths, feet and legs to give a feel of proper free-standing furniture. Graham predicts that yachts will become more homely and perhaps he means a little less ostentatious and easier to live with or on when he says theyll be more like landbased living environments; they need to be places where two people can curl up and watch a movie together and feel at home, rather than just being places to hold large cocktail parties. Alex Hull, of Silverlining Furniture, reflects that it wasnt that long ago when tastes on board reflected the aesthetics of the 18th century and woods were a rich red, mahogany or ebony. Now, an Art Deco influence predominates but is tempered with the contemporary. More than ever, believes Alex, clients are looking for something that is personal to them and at the same time becoming more adventurous. He says: Theyre looking for something more functional toomore useable interiors, more relaxed, with more informal finishes that reflect the nature of the materialso if its wood they want to feel the wood, not find a barrier of full gloss high polish between them and the material.
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More intimacy: the sofa pivots with an electrically operated backscreen
Space configurations are changing too as owners seek to feel closer to the sea rather than observing it from behind glass walls. The future, says Alex, is about bringing the outside inside and taking the inside out and that will affect the style and function of space and furniture and the durability of natural materials becomes more important. We are seeing fewer formal separations of living space as indoors and outdoors meld in to each other. These new spaces are more tactile environments rather than museum sites housing priceless but sometimes incongruous furniture. Composite materials such as
Corian or carbon fibre also share a place in these new living spaces where complex structural forms can be achieved that traditional methods on their own could not. But its not simply a change in personal tastes that is causing a re-think on lifestyle onboard. Advances in technology have breathed new life and possibilities into the use of the traditional materials; glass, marble, or stone. Ben Harrison, at Eidsgaard Design, says: People are finding different ways of using traditional materials. New techniques mean that you can now use a granite veneer that can be cut so finely to wrap around corners. The materials arent new, but the
techniques are and glass technology is moving fast and we are finding new ways to do much more with it where it was not possible before. Technological advances, creative inspiration, superb artisanship, an influx of new designer blood and brave, bold attitudes towards new possibilities are creating a calmer, more intimate, more relaxed mode de vivre where sunsets and sunrises, the wind, the waves and the wild seas have found their rightful place bang, smack in the middle of the loop where the outstanding craftsmanship of the human hand and mind have learnt to roammaking and furnishing beautiful boats.
Inside goes outside: the layout of Eidsgaard Designs Arcon project
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Onboard | MaryJean II & the Adriatic coast Behind the scenes | Espen Oeino
architect
The yachts featured in the preceding pages all have their own charms and unique styles, but who is it that creates such magnificent structures? In the first of a new series that goes behind the scenes of the superyacht industry, Elite Traveler Superyachts talks to world-famous yacht designer Espen Oeino.
Eye of the
Espen Oeinos yacht design studio is based in Monaco, overlooking Port Hercule
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Behind the scenes | Espen Oeino
Elite Traveler Superyachts: Out of all the incredible yachts youve designed, which one do you consider your breakthrough and which is your favorite?
Espen Oeino: Id say that there are actually two. Skat was the first one, because she was quite different from what people were used to. Im happy that she still looks very modern ten years later. The second one is Silver, somewhat for similar reasons. Besides her special, streamlined look, Silver is also a very efficient yacht, which makes her even more relevant as a concept, now that reducing the impact on our environment has become such an important issue. As for my favorite one, I like them all, as each has her own special character, even if some do seem to have an overall similar shape.
Sometimes this works and sometimes it doesnt, but its important not to leave any stone unturned. We hardly ever pitch a project based on our ideas alone. I still think of new designs and concepts and they pile up in my drawersbut thats more for the sake of intellectual stimulus and creativity, or resolving technical issues, than for pitching to clients or yards.
What do you think are the key criteria prompting clients or yards to choose you and your team seemingly more and more often?
Its a question of having the right chemistry between all parties. But whether it is yards, brokers or clients, they generally know what we can do or wont do, and how well do it. If it fits their views, we may work together. If it doesnt, theyll work with someone else. I tend to think that what makes a difference is our capacity to listen to the clients, their expectations and desires, so that we can provide them with the right answers. And when, as often happens, clients are not sure of what they want, we help them analyse and formulate, both verbally and visually, what theyre aiming to achieve. To me, it is essential that the naval architecture and exterior design of a bespoke yacht should match such desires, rather than put forward my style to a number of yachts. When I look at the yachts weve worked on, Im pleased to see that there is no Espen Oeino style or visual sort of trademark to any of them. My work
How does the process of yacht design work? Are you mostly approached by the yards, the clients or the brokers, or do you pitch some projects and ideas like an architect would do for a building project?
It can be anything and everything. Sometimes a yard has been approached by a client who knows he wants to build, say, a Lrssen. Then the yard gives us, and other studios, a brief. Then we pitch and hopefully get the contract. Sometimes a broker, on behalf of his or her client, approaches us knowing were the most capable of matching their clients expectations. Sometimes a client whos shopping around for their next build will get in touch, so we discuss the ideas and take it from there.
Credit: Lrssen Yachts
Espen Oeino
Born in Norway, Espen Oeinos family has been dealing with boats for a long time. Considering his family background and nationality, it could be said that he was destined to become a wooden sailing boat builder or a cruise ship designer instead, rather than a steel mega-motoryacht naval architect. But today, Espen Oeinos studio is one of the most successful in the industry. As a youngster, Espen admired the work of Jan Herman Linge, a Norwegian naval architect who had designed 25-27-foot sailing racing boats, such as the Soling and the Yingling, in the 1960s. Sailing on the Yingling beautiful yachts inspired Oeino to become a naval architect for sailing yachts. Following his baccalaurat, he began his naval architecture studies, but, because of a girlfriend, he chanced upon a summer in Antibes. This was his rst encounter with the Mediterranean and with yachts, and in particular Acajou, built by the Acajou late Jon Bannenberg in 1983 at Chantier de lEsterel. It was love at rst sight. With yacht design in mind, Espen wanted to go to the Beaux-Arts, but didnt as his parents insisted that he carry on with naval architecture. Seen from Norway, the idea that there could even be a burgeoning superyacht industry seemed like a very remote possibility. So, Espen continued naval architecture and is grateful for his parents inuence. He then won an internship with the yacht designer Martin Francis in Antibes where the rst project he ended up working on was Eco, which launched in 1991. An amazing yacht and an amazing chance for Oeino that opened a new realm of possibilities. The rest is history.
The 2757/84m Oeino-designed Valerie motoryacht was launched in 2011
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Oeino designed the 2405/73.3m yacht Silver to meet environmentally conscious goals
is behind the scenes and maybe thats what clients appreciate the most. They certainly also like the fact that my naval architecture background allows me to undertake large yacht projects in confidence, as these are real vessels with seriously complex navigation matters to be dealt withor maybe its also because I still draw all the projects by hand.
project Victory was the first one in 2009, hence her internal code number 0901. Out of the 50 or 60 enquiries we get every year, generally there are only about ten to 15 that are really serious and could lead somewhere. Around five may turn into a contract whether the yacht is actually built or not.
our inspirations from a number of influences, or maybe Ive been influenced by my years at the Beaux-Arts to think this way. Ive also learnt there that its what we do with such heritage thats importanthow we nurture it and make use of that fertile soil from which we can grow our own crops.
What is your success ratiomeaning how often do you get contracted when approached for a new yacht design?
We have a simple, but efficient, system in our studio. The first enquiry for the year is given the two digits of the year plus a two-digit number that starts with 01. For example, the enquiry for 140m
You were trained with Martin Francis, but who do you see as your Master?
I like the ambivalence of your question, yet I see Martin not only as the one who trained me, but also as a Master, especially because hes selftaught. However, there are indeed many other Masters with prominent influence on the way I approach things. At the end of the day, we all draw
What is the difference between naval architecture and exterior styling?

This is a tricky question. In Latin countries, such as France, there seems to be an important difference between what the naval architect does and what the exterior designer is meant to do. Whilst the former is seen as the marine engineering, technical side of things for the hull and superstructure, the latter deals with the look of the yacht. For us Scandinavians, or for the Germans, Dutch and British, the two are more closely linked. Maybe its because of my background, but I find it hard to differentiate the two aspects. To me, form follows function and its hard to envisage a shape separately from what is to be achieved once on waterand maybe especially on water since, for example, the environment is not stable like a road.
The 2399/70.7m Skat still looks modern despite being ten years old
What non-Espen Oeino yachts do you see as ground-breaking in designand why?

You mean exterior design or naval architecture? Jon Bannenbergs yachts generally, and any yacht that tries to improve hull efficiencyand therefore fuel consumptionwithout compromising on seaworthiness and comfort.
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What do you think is going to be the direction of yacht design in the years to come?
It derives from what Ive just said. To me the best designs are those that can find the perfect balance between the technical constraints of seaworthiness and the increasing complexity of technical requirements with spatial needs. A balance between technical space, owners space, living space, space for guests, space for crew, storage space and for long stays must be found whilst preserving some sort of balance between the length, beam and height of the yacht. I think this is where were going, generally. There wont necessarily be yachts with looks that are really off the beaten track, as weve seen during the recent years of fast growth when there was a stronger need to differentiate looks. When it happens it will be because theres a real connection between looks and the yachts functionalities. Exterior design may therefore show a return to some form of modernised classic look, with a stronger slant on technological innovation and sustainabilitywith the protection of the environment in mind. But, for the sake of creativity, I also hope that there are still going to be some extreme designs put together. This is what many younger designers have embarked upon, and thats good. Not all new concepts are actually achievable, but that doesnt really matter.
Below and bottom: Espen Oeino celebrates the launch of Silver
Youre designing larger and larger yachts; what are the advantages and difficulties of working on such great undertakings?
Whilst it may seem exciting to be designing larger yachts, the main difficulty is in the number of people involved. The decision-making process is more complex, the level of control required to ensure smooth progress is daunting, even more so as the yachts are becoming more and more complex technically. The amount of time and work required on a 140m yacht is not twice as much as on a 70m, but three times, and thats not just for
our part of the job. As a result, the larger the yacht, the more exponential the cost and price.
How were you affected by the recession?

We were fortunate to have ten projects under way, already contracted or in build. We were probably less affected than many and able to ride through the storm. Everything halted in October 2008, and 2009 was a black year until the 140m Victory in December 2009. Thats 14 months without a new project signed and far fewer enquiries than ever before. We had some payment delays, and a couple
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Credit: Lrssen Yachts
The 2235/68m Hermitage design incorporates sharp and modern exterior lines
of yachts changed ownership whilst in build, but at least we didnt have any cancellations.
Given the timeline and size of the projects in our industry, cash flow can rapidly become an issue, even if you have a few projects under way, a stable business and a portfolio of clients.
moving from a 50m yacht to over 60m. Suddenly, you no longer have 12 crew members, which remains a manageable size, but 18 to 20, or more, and this is when relationships in the workplace become more complex. Our size means we remain a small group with team spirit, something you tend to lose when you grow bigger. The rat race takes over when you grow big and you also risk losing passion and dedication. Retrospectively, Im glad I didnt aim at growing the team bigger, else we would have faced tougher times when things started going down at the end of 2008. Our team is international and a cross-section of
How did you fight your way through it? And what do you think are the golden rules of a good yacht design business, both in good and bad times?
We have reached some sort of critical mass. With enough projects to work on at any one time, we were less affected than studios with only a few projects, where losing one can result in a sudden big drop in turnover. A good number of projects also means better and continuous cash flow, which is essential.
How many team members do you work with? And what makes your team unique?
The team comprises 15 members. During recent years of growth, I could have easily doubled or tripled the number of staff as the workload kept increasing. But I preferred to stick to that level as I find it ideal. To me its a threshold, a little like
The 414/126.2m Octopus is one of Oeinos larger projects
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Monaco attracts yacht owners for its relaxed and sociable atmosphere
various professional yachting activities. It includes engineers, designers, a captainall with different backgrounds and experiences, yet with a shared passion for the yachts and their jobs.
so fast that we can imagine them coming to yachting fast tooor not. Even if the Chinese like to display their wealth, there is no yachting culture there, and the history of yachting has shown that cultural aspects are essential.
the products and build their own. With a growing domestic market, I dont see why they shouldnt. However, wherever yachting develops, there is also a need to create the relevant infrastructures.
Do you feel more like an entrepreneur nowadays or are you still a designer first and foremost?
I must have something of an entrepreneurial spirit, because to me, every new yacht project is its own new venture.
Do you think current yacht designs can be successful with any culture or do you think theres going to be a need to change yacht design to adapt to the cultures of the emerging markets?
Id say yes and noI suppose youre especially interested in the Chinese who dont like being out in the sun. There are yachts that are designed to maximise interior space rather than outside deckstake Katara for exampleand many yachts for Middle East clients would also be adapted to the requirements of Chinese owners. Beyond the necessary fit of the product and cultural background, I think there is also a question of timing. The younger rich might be more interested in yachts than the older, more traditional, generation. Figureheads can also lead the way. I believe that Abramovich set a trend in Russia, and so did Lakshmi Mittal for Indians. I dont yet know who the leading Chinese figure will be to leave their mark, but the Chinese are highly capable of coming up with their own yachts. First theyll look at what the rest of the world does and then theyll adapt
The yachting industry is said to be a strange animal, an industry unlike any other. Do you think so? If yes, why?
There are many aspects that make yachting a strange animal. The nature of the owners to start with: successful entrepreneurs, who are either very passionate about the sea or who see a superyacht as a testimony of their achievementsor both. There is no other industry that can boast such a high-quality level of clients. But that also makes the industry very fragile. Being the ultimate luxury, it is a form of self-indulgence that is not necessarily well regarded. Whilst it remains acceptable in good times, it is less so in bad times. The general public doesnt see the number of jobs created or the economic benefits. The industry doesnt really communicate about its realisations beyond its inner circle, and that doesnt help to brighten up its image. The fragility of the industry also resides in the fact that a yacht is potentially the first item one gets rid of in financially tough timesas weve seen with the recession. The discrepancy between volume and the value of each product means that the difference between a successful year and a nightmare is small.
Where do you think the new breed of clients is going to come from in the next five years?
There are still many Russians and Eastern Europeans interested in the industry that have the means to buy or build yachts. Many were surprised when the Russians jumped onto the yachting bandwagon a few years ago, but they are culturally inclined to it. The South Americans are too as they are also strong in shipbuilding. I understand that more and more Brazilians and Argentinians charter nowadays. This is the first step and they have potential for a growing presence, which includes developing their region as a splendid cruising destination. Then there are the Chinese, which also raises a big question mark. The market remains as much unknown as it is untapped. The country has grown
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Youve not yet tried designing for other industries. Is that because you feel you are primarily a naval architect before being a designer?
I would like to find the time some day to come up with a concept for a small motorboat, up to 15m, where you can stay in comfort for a few nights while traveling along the French Riviera. It would be a boat I could afford to enjoy as well as own.
If you were to deal with other industries, which ones would you be interested in?
I like movement. Designing any object that moves combines aesthetics and technical innovation. I have experimented with watches, but would also like to consider planes or helicopters; the difficulty being that there has not been much to revisit with either for decades. Its the same for skis. I would have liked to design the parabolic skis, but now its done. I also like working with superconducting materials and today could be the right time to investigate the matter further. The japanese built a prototype water jet based on the right-hand principle of an electromagnetic field decades ago; thrust can be produced in seawater with no moving parts within an electromagnetic field of a certain strength. In their application, Espen Oeino was inspired to become a yacht designer when he saw Acajou, built by the late John Bannenberg the thrust was produced using energy-intensive coolants to produce super conductivity and thus a strong magnetic field. Today, with significant progress having been made in materials sciences
So you think the recession isnt over?

I think that its impact isnt over and that 2011 is a critical year for many. Besides the general situation of the industry, the increasing costs of raw materials is something not many people pay attention to, except for petrol. All of this combined can have a deeper impact in the long term than the financial upheavals weve experienced.
And if you could change more than one thing?

The things I wish to change are linked to my previous answer. Transparent results in improved professionalism and a better image. I often hear owners complain about the cloudy world of brokerage, but brokers are essential to this businessas long as they are good brokers with ethics and have the interests of their clients at heart.
and superconductivity, particularly in the field of microprocessors, new and less costly opportunities may lie ahead for this amazing propulsion unit.
Does being based in Monaco make a difference for business?

I didnt realise it when I moved to Monaco, but theres actually a big difference between Monaco and Antibes. In Antibes, you meet with the captains
What would you change about the way things work in this industry if you could change just one thing?
Transparency. Not only does the industry lack joint action as a business able to communicate its value, but the general public still has this impression that a yacht is synonymous with dubious practices, tax evasion, fraud and so on. Of course the general media focus their attention only on such matters, but if no one does anything to bring more transparency to the table, such reactions are hardly a surprise. If youve got nothing to hide, then youve got nothing to worry about. We are all to gain from ethical behaviour.
Each Oeino-designed yacht, like Octopus, boasts its own character
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can sometimes be forgotten when aesthetics tend to take precedence. I also find that one essential quality is to be able to see a project in three dimensions. Although computers and 3D rendering have helped a lot in recent years, nothing replaces the eye of the architect to find the right balance.
What would be your dream yacht to design?

It would have to be mine. Not a sailing yacht, A blue hull characterises the sleek 2335/68m Kismet but a motoryacht that can take on board a sailing yacht. Something like an exploration yacht with a helicopter on board and a ski lockerand to be and are more geared towards the technical side of things, even when seeing yacht owners. In Monaco, you meet the end client more often, more easily, and its a different atmosphere too. Owners like to come to Monaco because they enjoy the restaurants, the entertainment scene and the shopping. They are usually in a more relaxed mood and can easily pop by the office for a chat. This is something that didnt happen in Antibes. flight in. I usually spend Mondays in the office to catch up and then fly to shipyards in Germany and Italy. Sometimes, like this week, I fly to the USor places like Australia and the Middle Eastand back again. BlackBerries are fantastic. I do take holidays too thoughthe studio closes for two weeks at Christmas and I take one week off to go skiing. able to go heli-skiing straight from the sea. It is amazing the number of mountains and ski slopes that are not too far from the sea.
Do you have a motto in life?

I am fortunate enough to do what I like to do, draw new ideas onto my little notebook and work with a great team. I believe, though, that good things happen at their own pace when work has been wellcarried through. Ones motivation should not lie in the end resultit is the process that matters most.
Whats your typical week, if that ever exists? And how many miles a year do you travel?
I have no idea how much I travel, but I travel a lot, always trying to catch the first flight out and the last
How long does it take to build a career as a successful naval architect or yacht designer? And what steps do you need to take to get there?
It takes a long time. Besides hard work and a passion for what one does, it is essential to know the rules of naval architecture. It may seem obvious, but this
Any regrets?
To have stopped designing sailing boatsfor now.
An early sketch shows the latest Sunrise Yachts project currently in build, designed by Espen Oeino with an interior by Redman, Whiteley Dixon
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Fashion and accessories
3 1
Twinkle Toes
Extravagant embellishments give grounded sandals a dressed-up attitude.
1 Gunmetal beaded sandal, $510, Giuseppe Zanotti Design. Contact: Elbra Beitsayad at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, +1 212 753 7300; www.giuseppezanottidesign.com. 2 Gold fringe sandal, $895, Ren Caovilla. Contact: Elbra Beitsayad at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, +1 212 753 7300; www.renecaovilla.com. 3 Silver sandal, $895, Manolo Blahnik. Contact: Elbra Beitsayad at Bergdorf Goodman in New York, +1 212 753 7300; www.manoloblahnik.com. 4 Calf leather sandal, $580, Bottega Veneta. Contact: Arlene Williams at Bottega Veneta in New York, +1 212 371 5511; www.bottegaveneta.com. 5 Joanne sandal, $675, Oscar de la Renta. Contact: Iana Brock at Oscar de la Renta in New York, +1 212 288 5810; www.oscardelarenta.com.
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New BohemiaN
Embrace your inner boho with a glam kaftan for the beach and beyond.
Amberley embellished crepe kaftan, $2,700, Temperley London. Contact: Net-a-Porter.coms Daniel Martinez, +1 212 901 3018; www.net-a-porter.com.
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EVENING HOURS
After dark, trade in your rugged timepiece for something a bit more rened.
1 Emperador Coussin XL Moon Phase watch in white gold with black alligator strap, $45,000, Piaget. Contact: Lae Xavier at Piaget in New York, +1 212 246 5283; www.piaget.com. 2 Rotonde de Cartier watch in 18K rose gold with dark brown alligator strap, $24,500, Cartier. Contact: Eric Gonzalez at Cartier in New York, +1 212 446 3565; www.cartier.com. 3 Calatrava watch with hand-stitched alligator strap, $86,800, Patek Philippe. Contact: Patek Philippe Salon at Tiffany & Co. in New York, +1 212 755 8000; www.patek.com. 4 Jules Audemars Extra-Thin watch in 18K rose gold with black crocodile strap, $21,800, Audemars Piguet. Contact: Dennis Voorheis at Audemars Piguet in New York, +1 212 688 6644; www.audemarspiguet.com. 5 Villeret Ultra-Slim Half Hunter watch in white gold, $34,300, Blancpain. Contact: Jim Turi at Blancpain in New York, +1 212 396 1735; www.blancpain.com.
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Blue Mood
With bright, bracing colors and a sleek, sporty silhouette, Faonnables newest is the perfect between-seasons cover-up.
Long blue parka with hood, $495, Faonnable. Contact: Robin Steiner at Faonnable in New York, +1 212 319 0111; www.faconnable.com.
123
Shopping
Pratesibeloved purveyor of decadent linens and home decorhas rolled out its newest cashmere collection, just in time for the first sign of falls chill. A sumptuous series of blankets and throws crafted from lightweight cashmere and silk make for the perfect cold weather companions, whether youre traveling the globe or curling up at home (Marrakech blanket, from $6,400). Contact: Gina Maftei at Pratesi in New York, +1 212 288 2315; www.pratesi.com
Proof that some things never go out of style: The new 2011 Vespa GTV 300 was modeled The smallest, lightest electric folding bike on the planet, the Carbon YikeBike mini-farthing perfects portable, storable mobility for your forays on land (from $3,795). This year, the innovative, eco-conscious team of engineers unveiled an extender battery pack (from $229), which allows you to double, triple or quadruple the bikes 6.2-mile range. YikeBikes award-winning design is not only ber cool, but also offers a smooth, stable ride, fast acceleration to a maximum speed of 14.4mph and safety features including anti-skid brakes and built-in indicators and lights. Contact: YikeBike Founder Grant Ryan, +64 3 281 8842 ext. 2003; www.yikebike.com after the iconic Italian companys classic designs from the 50s and 60s, yet it looks right at home on modern roads. A powerful GTS engine provides maximum speeds of up to 80mphget ready to rev up ($6,899). Contact: Daniel Gonzalez at Vespa in New York, +1 888 221 4265; www.vespausa.com
Legendary diamond house Graff recently released a stunning mens diving watch that stays true to its jeweler heritage. The mechanical, self-winding ScubaGraff sports a commanding 47mm faceted case inspired by the ever classic brilliant cut diamond, with a triangle cut diamond at 12 oclock and a diamondtipped crown. Water-resistant to 300m, the ScubaGraff comes complete with a decompression valve, 30-minute countdown indicator and 50-hour power reserve, plus luminor-enhanced hands and hour markers for easy nighttime and underwater readability. Flip the watch over to find a dynamic hand-engraved Octopus motif in rich cobalt tones (from about $60,792). Contact: Anna Schwieger at the Graff boutique in Geneva, +41 22 819 6060; www.graffwatches.com
UK-based jewelry designer Theo Fennell specializes in expertly crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces with a welcome touch of whimsy. His Carpe Diem collection features pieces with dazzling gemstones and thoughtful engravings, like this colorful poppy ring. Emblazoned with Dum Spiro Spero while I breathe, I hopeits as pretty as it is profound (18K yellow gold, morganite and diamond poppy Carpe Diem ring, $20,900). Contact: Philip Reilly at Theo Fennell in London, +44 20 7591 5000; www.theofennell.com
124
Shopping
Now on her fourth season collaborating with accessories label Longchamp, supermodel and perpetual It Girl Kate Moss is updating her signature Gloucester bag with a smaller, sleeker shape and a range of new hues. In buttery soft suede, it adds the perfect pop of color to falls somber ensembles ($830). Contact: Ann Mary Calcagno at Longchamp in New York, + 1 212 343 7444; www.longchamp.com
Owned by the house of Herms, Saint-Louis Crystal is Frances oldest and most sought-after cristallerie. Six artists are breathing new life into the houses 19th-century designs this fall with Les Confidents, a collection of beautifully engraved beer glasses with a refreshingly whimsical feel (Le Mticuleux flte, $415). Contact: Anna Ritter at Dahlgren Duck in Dallas, Tex., Legendary nautical design brand Riva launched the stylish Riva Iseo this summer, a sleek 27-foot runabout marrying timeless glamour and elegance with skilled craftsmanship and innovative technology. Available in a hybrid engine version with a Zero Emission Mode cruising option, this easily maneuverable yacht allows you to glide across pristine waters where normal boating is forbiddenwithout compromising on speed. Rich with ever elegant mahogany, Riva Iseo comes complete with beautiful Poltrona Frau furnishings, as well as infotainment and GPS built for Apples iPad platform (price available upon request). Contact: Product Manager Giuseppe Meneghetti, +1 954 462 5527; www.riva-yacht.com Whats sweeter than candy? Pradas latest fragrance is an ode to indulgence, with a sugary cocktail of sensual benzoin, warm caramel and powdery white musk notes. Housed in a vintage-inspired bottle adorned with a swath of the labels signature saffiano in punchy pink, Prada Candy is truly tempting ($108 for 80ml). Dont underestimate the power of these deceptively small S-Series speakers, part of Steinway Lyngdorfs latest stereo configuration. High efficiency drivers and the companys patented RoomPerfect technology deliver impressive 114dB SPI and their compact size makes for a superyachtworthy sound system (from $22,100). Contact: Katherine Spiller at Steinway Lyngdorf in New York, +1 212 588 9330; www.steinwaylyngdorf.com Contact: John Martens at Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills, Calif., +1 310 550 5900; www.prada.com +1 972 478 5991
125
Shopping
Although the first Scubacraft has yet to be delivered, orders are being taken for the original SC3 Sport (2012 availability quickly diminishing) and the limited edition, carbon-fiber forced induction Project Black, both of which are on track to hit the water next year. Easily hoisted aboard your yacht, the tender offers the future of diving craft technology, allowing for supreme performance on the waters surfacea safe diving platform that is also perfect for towing water skiers and inflatable water toysas well as streamlined submersible capabilities with excellent underwater handling. Customize your three-person SC3 with a wide variety of optional features, from lights and cameras to equipment racks and a custom trailer (price available upon request). Contact: Sales & Marketing Director James Browne, +44 796 134 1385; www.scubacraft.com
With aquatic-inspired designs like starfish, sea turtles and tiny anchors, the latest baubles in Alex Woos Little Seasons collection allow wearers to keep the ocean close to their heart even when theyre miles away from sand and surf. Rendered in 14K white and yellow gold and diamonds, each piece is totally charming (diamond anchor pendant, $798). Contact: Alex Woo at Alex Woo, Inc. in New York, +1 877 966 4266; www.alexwoo.com
Home gyms are going high fashion, thanks to a new collaboration between Roberto Cavalli and Ciclotte. While hes best known for dressing A-list beauties like Halle Berry, Cavalli brought his signature sex appealthink bold metallics and animal prints to a series of exercise bikes from the luxury manufacturer. To ensure youll look stylish even when youre breaking a sweat, a line of gym clothing is also available ($15,000). Contact: Karian Rivera at Roberto Cavalli in New York, +1 212 755 7722; www.robertocavalli.com
The top choice of world-class golfers when it comes to luggage, Club Glove has just launched a premium collection that will translate effortlessly from golf course to luxury yacht. Made in the US, the new TRS Ballistic linecarry-on, check-in and XL check-in combines a classic sporty look, unmatched durability and intelligent design perfect for frequent first-class leisure traveling. Its patent-pending Train Reaction System makes the bags feel weightless, and its ballistic nylon fabric offers four times the tear resistance of other premium fabrics. Best of all, convenient packing modules make for easy access and organization of all your travel essentials ($2,248 for the set of three). Contact: National Sales Manager Joshua Miller, +1 714 843 9288; www.clubglove.com
126
Shopping
You can now add flying to your fun-in-the-sun water sports options with the new Jetlev R200, a cutting-edge recreational jetpack specially developed for use over water. The innovative mechanism boasts great thrust-to-weight ratio, locating its propulsion engine in a floating vessel connected to the pack by a strong, yet flexible hose that delivers power in the form of pressurized water. Five years of extensive research and testing have made the Jetlev not only thrilling, but also extremely safe, stable and easy to maneuver ($99,500). Contact: Jay Oosterhouse at Jetlev South East in Fort Lauderdale, +1 954 552 8050; www.jetlevsoutheast.com or www.jetlev.com In celebration of Scotlands crown jewels, the oldest in the British Isles, Royal Salute unveils the rarest of blends. Only 21 bottles of Tribute to Honour, an exquisite whiskey blend master-crafted by Colin Scottmarking his 21 years of blending expertise exist. Comprising the most valuable, sumptuous whiskeys from the Royal Salute vault, each aged for a minimum of 45 years, Tribute to Honour showcases a rich intensity of flavor made possible only by decades of careful maturation. Naturally, this fine treasure comes well dressed, its bottle shimmering with gold and flawless diamonds thanks to Garrard, jeweler to the British royals ($200,000). Contact: Pernod Ricards Giaia Rener, +44 208 250 1724; www.chivasbrothers.com Leicas new V-Lux 30 is indispensable for yachters on a world tour, with features to please the exacting photographer, globetrotter and fashionista in you. The elegantly styled compact camera, equipped with a 15.1 megapixel sensor, records images of superior quality, while geo-tagging them with built-in GPS for easy organization and sharing on social networks, map sites and image portals. Easy to navigate with its three-inch LCD touch screen, the V-Lux 30 also offers high-performance video recording with 16x zoom range and integrated stereo mic ($749). Contact: Leicas Mark Brady, +1 800 222 0118; www.leica-camera.com
The worlds first compact semi-submarine wowed the crowds at the 2011 Miami International Boat Show, and now South Korean manufacturer Raonhaje is poised to unveil the EGO LE (Luxury Edition), complete with HD TV cameras, an HD recording system, underwater lights and solar power to extend battery life. EGO offers ample, non-slip decks that hover above the water (perfect for sunbathing), as well as an underwater observation globe, with acrylic siding and a wide hatch, for ocean (and lake) exploration. As easy to drive as a car, EGO boasts an entirely electric motor that makes for a quieter, emission-free ride (EGO Standard Edition: $58,000; EGO LE: price available upon request). Contact: Global Marketing Director Mick Mckie, +82 31 8059 6637; www.raonhaje.com
127
Yachting events
Yachting events
1
Upcoming events
October 2011 January 2012
The remaining months of 2011 into early 2012 see the yachting arena hosting several events around the world. From sailing regattas to superyacht shows, those looking for a spectacular view of the worlds biggest and best yachts will nd the following just a few shows worthy of attendance.
Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, Sardinia

Exciting racing, good competition, a great social scene and the worlds most exclusive yacht club all make for one of the most prestigious events on the worlds yachting calendar. The Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta 2011 saw 27 super sailing yachts hit the waters off Sardinias Costa Smerelda for four packed days of regatta racing. The sailing yachts owners and crew were treated to a whirl of socialising by the event organisers, who included Loro Piana and the Costa Smerelda Yacht Club.
Yacht shows
Genoa International Boat Show, 1-9 October Athens International Boat Show, 20-28 October Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, 27-31 October Barcelona International Boat Show, 3-11 November St Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, 1-4 December Antigua Charter Yacht Show, 2-8 December Phuket International Marine Expo, Thailand, 5-8 January London Boat Show, 6-15 January Boot Dusseldorf 2012 at the 42nd International Boat Show, 21-29 January
This year, the racing format included a performance category and a cruising division. Nineteen yachts took part in the cruising division, many of which have been featured in Elite Traveler Superyachts, including the 187/57 .5m Twizzle and the 177/54.6m Marie. The rst day of racing saw rising winds throughout the afternoon and some great sailing, whilst the second day was abandoned as winds reached 30 knots. Instead, owners and guests were treated to a masterclass in Italian pasta making, followed by an evening hosted by Loro Piana at the Yacht Club Coasta Smerelda. Day three saw more racing with winds of 25 knots, and a beach party at the Romazzino; whilst the nal day saw racing abandoned, again due to high wind conditions. The overall winner of the Loro Piana Silver Jubilee Cup was the 78/24m Highland Fling XI.
Congratulations to the Owner and her crew, and to all the winners of their divisions. 1 An evening hosted by Loro Piana. 2 Beach party at the Romazzino. 3 Presentation of the Loro Piana Silver Jubilee Cup.
Regattas
Kings Cup Regatta, Phuket, 4-11 December Asia Superyacht Rendezvous, 16-18 December Grenada Sailing Festival, 27-31 January
Other events to note

Art Basel Miami, 6-9 December St Barths Music Festival, 6-21 January 27th Cartier Polo World Cup, St Moritz, 26-29 January
128
B O R N
B Y
PA S S I O N
ChrOnOgraph CaMBianO
dESignEd By T h E F i r S T F u l ly C O n V E rT i B l E au TO M aT i C C h r O n O g r a p h
F O r a n y E n q u i r i E S , p l E a S E C a l l B O V E T l l C aT 1 8 8 8 9 0 9 1 8 2 2
B OV E T F l E u r i E r
SwiTzErland
FOunding MEMBEr OF ThE qualiTy FlEuriEr CErTiFiCaTiOn and parTnEr OF ThE FOndaTiOn dE la hauTE hOrlOgEriE
B OV E T. C O M
For every single week of the year.
The Patravi Calendar is the first watch in a round case equipped with a movement manufactured entirely by Carl F. Bucherer. The CFB A1004 functional module, the peripheral rotor, the big date switching mechanism and the week display are eloquent proof that the Patravi Calendar is the perfect timepiece for aesthetes and lovers of complex technology alike. www.carl-f-bucherer.com info@cfbnorthamerica.com To locate an authorized retailer nearest you, please call 800 395 4306

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F A L L 2 0 11

the superyacht superpower

Two Legendary Names, One Extraordinary Address.

305 993 6000

Inspired living. Unrivaled address.

Montres DeWitt SA 2011. With apologies to Hans Holbein the Younger.

Ev e ry D eW it t is bu ilt by a dedic at ed m a st er h o ro l o g i st a n d e a c h i n c l u d e s a n a u d a c i o us t w i st on t he cl ass ic al w at ch m ak e rs ar t . www.d e wi t t . ch

28 At one with the ocean

34 Top charter yachts

108 Fantasies come true

112 Eye of the architect

BORN IN ITALY. LIVED WORLDWIDE.

CRN S.p.A. - Ancona, Italy - ph. +39 071 5011111 www.crn-yacht.com

52 Virgin cruising grounds

102 Top ocean suites

121 New bohemian

72 Treasures of the South Pacific

122 Evening hours

123 Blue mood 78 Eastern promise

124 Yacht accessories

85 Destination GuideHong Kong

128 Yachting events

Relax into fall

Luxury surroundings onboard Solemates

> associate publisher/advertising director, multimedia

> Sales manager (jewelry, watches) HEatHEr HanSOn

> Sales manager (fashion, travel) carOlyn WaGnEr

southErn CaliFornia / Colorado / ariZona / las vEgas

> cHarlES W. carrOll, phone: +1 661 251 5100, cwcarroll@earthlink.net

> publisher daniEl WadE, phone: +1 954 309 3647, daniel.wade@elitetraveler.com

> cHriS BrOWn, phone: +1 905 602 7889, chrisb@c2cmedias.com

> JErry landrESS, phone/fax: +1 719 495 2145,

> armandO FiGarEdO, phone: +52 624 14 22640, ccabos@prodigy.net.mx

> Head of Sales, Europe/middle East/africa/asia SimOna kaStly

> account director (jewelry, watches, home, fashion) BryOny raiSEy

> managing director SuSannE SamuElSSOn, phone: +41 22 960 0926,

> Vimal anand, phone: +91 11 40581544, vimal@gmnindia.com

MAURITIUS FOR LIFE

News and previews | Latest launches

News and previews | Latest launches

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News and previews | Latest launches

MALTA PROPERTY INSIGHT

News and previews | Latest launches

Yacht Charter The ultimate getaway

Photography: Kristina Strobel

Contact Fiona Maureso on +33 493 340 100

YPI BROKERAGE I YPI MANAGEMENT I YPI CREW I YPI CHARTER

the 1976/60.2mYogi resembles an expedition-style vessel

Where Pa s sion And E xper ience R e- in v en ts The Dia mond

A p p e l m a n s s t r a at 25 b o x 24, 2018 A n t w e r p B e l g i u m t e l : +3 2 ( 0) 3 22 6 11 91 | fa x : + 32 ( 0 ) 3 2 26 2 1 57 | e - m a il : inf o @ day e k hje w e l l e ry. be

Elementary yet stylish alfresco dining aboard Yogi

Yogis unique design connects guests with the ocean

Yogi can accommodate 12 guests amid luxury surroundings

The opulent VIP stateroom

Top charter yachts

Top charter yachts

Sycara Vs opulent dining area is ideal for large events

Top charter yachts | Best slow-pace yachts

Leisurely cruising on the 223/68.1m Sycara V

Best slow-pace yachts

Credit: Camper & Nicholsons International

IWC. Engineered for men.