Falstaff Magazin International Nr. 2/2022

trends / CRUISING &

trends / CRUISING & YACHTING < a yacht can stand out from the ever-growing competition. There is particularly huge demand for eco superyachts that employ new hybrid fuel models which are more sustainable. Green credentials are increasingly important, especially for millennials, a demographic that tends to charter yachts rather than aspiring to ownership. Modern luxury ships like the M/Y NJORD, due to be launched in 2025, comply with the most stringent environmental standards: state-of-the-art engines are powered by liquefied natural gas and the yacht is equipped with heat recovery systems. The NJORD is no ordinary Ready for take-off! The superyacht Cloudbreak (above) has a helipad – in case you need to jet off to a meeting. Hotels like Patina Maldives offer their guests yacht excursions to explore the stunning world of the islands. THE AMENITIES ON BOARD HAVE CHANGED TO CATER TO AN ACTIVE POST- PANDEMIC LIFESTYLE: THERE ARE HAMMAMS, CRYOSAUNAS AND SUPER-SIZED SHOWERS. charter ship – you buy an apartment on board, pick the interior design yourself and then indulge in year-round travelling. Moreover, the NJORD not only has chic suites, it is also a research station that allows the ship to conduct scientific and oceanographic research and support charities in the process. This visionary concept pairs luxury travel with a commitment to advancing global marine research. These so-called explorer yachts are also available in smaller versions, catering to a younger clientele who want voyages of discovery to explore remote corners of the globe while learning about the world and making memories along the way. Photos: Nacho Dorado Photographer | www.nachodorado.com, Christopher Scholey, Mohamed Rizhan 42 falstaff jul-sep 2022

HISTORICAL SAILING SHIPS If your tastes run to a combination of nostalgia and modern amenities, then the Sea Cloud Spirit – a historical windjammer with all the luxuries of a private yacht – will definitely float your boat. The charter fleet also includes many other traditional-style wooden sailing ships that are guaranteed to make you feel like a pirate roaming the oceans. Smaller charter yachts like the SHALIMAR II are designed for eight guests; the daily rate in the low season is around £8,490. Its relatively small size allows this agile vessel to reach even the most remote beaches. The superyacht Cloudbreak can accommodate 12 guests and has everything needed for a memorable holiday, including a pool and a spacious gym with a ballet barre, jet skis, kayaks and wakesurf boards. The amenities on board have changed to cater to an active lifestyle, which has become even more aspirational during the pandemic: modern luxury yachts now offer hammams, cryosaunas and super-sized showers. Toys like floating beach clubs are all the rage; these swimming platforms are tethered to the rear of the yacht and provide an additional water-level sundeck while inflatable sea-level pools and super low platforms are perfect for easy access to the ocean. BOOKING APP OR BROKER? The lifestyle and luxury magazine Robb Report recently published tips on how to charter a yacht. There are many apps and online platforms, such as Ahoy Club or Yotha, that make the booking process very easy. Nevertheless, it is probably best to use a professional charter broker to avoid the pitfalls of fraudulent listings. The broker will handle all details in advance, including determining how large the crew needs to be and ensuring that all dietary needs are catered for. They will also discuss personal preferences, such as whether you’re looking for a quiet trip or want to party every night, if the yacht is suitable for business meetings or whether working with ocean protection initiatives is a priority. A professional can also clarify all security considerations in advance, because stars and other wealthy charter clients don’t want to be photographed by intrusive paparazzi drones. But that, admittedly, is next-level travel. < The SHALIMAR II is a smaller yacht designed for eight guests and agile enough to get into every bay. jul-sep 2022 falstaff 43