Captain Grant Du Preez of King Benji: A new chapter in charter excellence

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Welcome to Yacht Charter Market, the weekly newsletter dedicated to the world of yacht charter.

In today’s newsletter:

• Top story: Captain Grant Du Preez of King Benji on the yacht and her charter capabilities

• Charter updates: Latest yachts to join the charter market

• Zairos: Make APA Management effortless this charter season

• Social Media: Superyacht Bold and her crew having fun in the Bahamas 🇧🇸

TOP STORY

Captain Grant Du Preez of King Benji: A new chapter in charter excellence

Since taking the helm of King Benji in 2023, Captain Grant Du Preez has not only been navigating a standout yacht but carving out a bold new chapter in his career. With yachting experience that dates back to the age of 18, he has transitioned seamlessly from chief officer on larger yachts to running his own dynamic programmes – including time aboard Safari and a 45-metre villa yacht as relief captain. His early start and varied background have equipped him with the insight and confidence required to lead a high-performing crew on one of the charter market’s most distinctive offerings.

Catered for charter

Captain Grant is quick to highlight the unique elements that set King Benji apart. “There are seven different dining areas on board,” he notes, “so we often split guests into smaller groups for dinner, creating intimate and private experiences. It’s something they always remember.”

From the teppanyaki grill on the upper deck – a booking clincher for some clients – to themed evenings on the aft and swim platforms, the yacht is engineered for unforgettable moments. “We hosted a pizza night with underwater lights and fishing from the swim platform – the guests absolutely loved it.”

The yacht’s amenities cater to all ages and interests, including scuba diving, spearfishing and four jet skis. One charter even included dives with tiger sharks. As Grant puts it, “It’s like having a floating adventure resort.”

Spaces with soul

The aft deck serves as one of King Benji’s most versatile areas. It transforms from a yoga studio – thanks to an on-board certified instructor – to a gym space or a movie lounge under the stars. “You can do almost anything there – from wellness to entertainment,” says Grant.

Up top, the crow’s nest is a favourite. With its 360-degree views and 15.41-metre air draft, it’s a serene retreat perfect for morning coffees, reading, dolphin watching, or private dinners. “It’s incredibly private and elevated – literally and figuratively.”

Inside, the design by Design Unlimited and Mark Tucker spans three thematic decks: an aquatic-themed lower deck with vibrantly coloured staterooms; a beachy, Balinese main deck; and a jungle-inspired owner’s deck. “It’s bold – a bit of a Marmite situation – but it stands out from the crowd,” says the captain. That individuality, combined with the yacht’s deep blue hull, is a powerful draw for repeat charter guests.

Running King Benji comes with its nuances. “She handles like a kite in strong winds,” Grant explains, referencing the yacht’s deep draft and high windage. Yet visibility from the wing stations makes a crucial difference. Another standout feature is the convertible plunge pool. “It’s not a jacuzzi – it’s an ice bath. But for contrast therapy, you’ve got both hot and cold options right here.”

Chef Sean echoes the yacht’s interactive spirit from his prized galley. “I think the boat was built around this galley,” he laughs. With excellent lighting and an open-plan layout, guests frequently engage with culinary activities, especially during lively teppanyaki dinners.

Beyond the wheelhouse

Grant’s leadership philosophy is rooted in emotional intelligence. “You’re only as good as your team,” he says. “If someone’s down, I want to understand why. It’s not just logistics – it’s people management.”

The current crew of nine punches well above its weight, thanks to a mix of specialist skills. “Our deckhand is also a videographer, our stewardess is a certified yoga instructor, and our bosun is a dive master. It’s like having a crew of 13.”

Med ahead

With 10,000 nautical miles already covered and 11 charter weeks booked this summer, King Benji’s schedule is packed. The team is heading to the Med at the end of April, with appearances at the Formula One Grand Prix, Monaco to Saint-Tropez charters, the Cannes Film Festival, and cruising the coastlines of Naples, Amalfi, Capri, Sardinia and the Aeolian Islands.

Captain Grant sums up life aboard; “Hard work, fun and lucrative.” And for guests? “Memorable. Absolutely unforgettable.”

Find out more about chartering King Benji this summer in the Mediterranean here with Cecil Wright.

LATEST YACHT CHARTER OFFERS

28.18m Allegria II for charter with Edmiston

• 8 guests in 4 staterooms with 5 crew

• Rates: High € 80 000 p/w, Low € 75 000 p/w

• Cruising region: Western Mediterranean

• Learn more here

• Download the yacht brochure from the Edmiston website here

42.37m Iravati special charter offer with IYC 

• 12 guests in 6 staterooms with 9 crew

• Rates: From EUR 119,999 per week

• Cruising region: Croatia, Greece and Turkey

• Learn more here

30.26m Lemon Not Lime now for charter with Ocean Independence 

• 10 guests in 5 staterooms with 5 crew

• Rate: From €120,000 p/week + expenses

• Region: Mediterranean, currently cruising in Spain

• Find out more here

30.48m Sovereign for charter with Worth Avenue Yachts

• 7 guests in 4 staterooms with 3 crew

• Rates from: USD 48,000 per week

• Region: Florida, US Virgin Islands, The Bahamas, New England

• Find out more here

49.9m Thanuja newly refitted and for charter with Ocean Independence 

• 10 guests in 5 cabins with 6 crew

• Rates from EUR 210,000

• Regions: Mediterranean France and Italy

• Find out more here

38.9m Dakota for charter with TWW Yachts

• 10 guests in 4 staterooms with 6 crew

• Rates from EUR 98,000 per week

• Region: Mediterranean

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Yacht Charter Market: Powered by Zairos

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Want to find out more? Contact Zairos today!

This season, streamline your APA management with Zairos. Visit zairos.com or contact [email protected] to learn more.

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