The Yachtsman Report

There are yachts, there are superyachts, and then there are explorer yachts - the epitome of luxury, adventure, and unparalleled freedom. Explorer yachts, a sub-category of which are also known as expedition yachts, are remarkable vessels that are purpose-built or converted to travel vast distances and visit breathtaking locations all over the globe. From the Arctic to the Galapagos to the Great Barrier Reef, the world truly becomes your oyster aboard an explorer yacht.

Perhaps archeology isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when considering a yacht holiday, be it on your own yacht or when chartering one. Yachting in Greece, however, presents the perfect opportunity to visit some exceptional archeological locations, and to experience some of the oldest wonders in the world. Greek mythology and ancient history become intertwined in such places, bestowing them a distinct type of enchantment.

One of the things we take pride in at EKKA YACHTS is the experience we have acquired in providing tailored made solutions and tips while guiding our charter clients through the process of chartering a yacht.
If you are considering the seclusion, comfort, and luxury a charter yacht provides, we want to make sure you know what it’s all about. Here you’ll find a practical guide to the delightful prospect of vacationing on a charter yacht.

AN ENDURING INDUSTRY

2021, perhaps surprisingly, has proven to be an outstanding year for the superyacht market (the “superyacht” designation is used for luxury vessels more than 30m in length). According to SuperYacht Times iQ, more than 485 such vessels have been sold around the world since the beginning of the year, a number that translates to sales of approximately EUR 4.77 billion. The comparative number of vessels in 2020 was 296 and EUR 2.8 billion respectively.

TOP DESTINATIONS

The first Marine propulsion systems in the world were sails and oars. The simplest version of the oar was used for the first time in human history in Egyptian boats during the 4th millennium BCE, while ancient Egyptian sails are first depicted around 3200 BCE. Around the same time, Sumerian sailing boats have been discovered to traverse lengthy sea trading routes. Let’s not forget that even the discovery of America happened on magnificent sailboats, able to cross oceans in swift speeds. The first mechanical marine propulsion system was the steam engine, introduced in the early 19th century. Since then, boats have come a long way.

Our industry of leisure and luxury doesn’t immediately bring to mind ecological sustainability. Nevertheless, we can all contribute by leading a more sustainable on-board lifestyle, minimising our environmental impact while at sea and thus protecting what we love the most: the waters upon which we sail.

What is it about the combination of yachting and art that’s so singular? Much more than fulfilling the need for a personal touch, art collections have found their sea homes in many custom luxury yachts and superyachts around the world, including Greece.

As yacht owners or charterers you’re naturally accustomed to tenders and their limitations, which on occasion impinge upon your desire to relish open seas and skies without compromise. Enter chase boats. Speedily gaining popularity, they are an incredibly efficient, safe and elegant way to enjoy more options. After all, what is the utmost luxury if not freedom?

These are challenging times for all of us. They force us towards reflection and reevaluation, but also demand space for imagining: not just of the return to quotidian normalcy, but of days of freedom, joy and blue seas.

Whether you are a yacht owner or a frequent charterer contemplating the next step in this lovely relationship, chartering-out your own yacht is an excellent strategic move. It is a fiscally and practically sound solution, which also offers a priceless commodity: peace of mind. Collaborating with a top charter management team, armed with expertise and a genuine passion for life onboard, will cover all the bases.