Exploring the Peloponnese peninsula aboard Africa I

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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: Charter insight - Exploring the Peloponnese peninsula aboard Africa I 🇬🇷

• Charter updates: Charter fleet updates from Camper & Nicholson, Y.CO, YachtIn and IYC, with special offers from Yachting Partners International, Northrop & Johnson…

• Destination spotlight: Get-away to the Galapagos 🐢

• Post of the week: IYC unveils new images of a unique catamaran for charter…

TOP STORY

Charter insight: Exploring the Peloponnese peninsula aboard Africa I

Chartering a superyacht for a luxurious voyage across the azure waters of Greece is an experience unparalleled in grandeur and serenity. The idea of cruising through the calm Aegean Sea, exploring historic sites, and indulging in the rich Greek culture is as appealing to the wanderlust spirit as it is to those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Our adventure begins on board superyacht Africa I, where Captain Savvas and his highly professional crew welcomes us on board in Nafplion, a picturesque seaside town on the Peloponnese peninsula. Built by Benetti in 2010, Africa I underwent a full refresh in 2021, including a brand new contemporary interior.

Steeped in history, Nafplion was the first capital of modern Greece and its charm is evident in its neoclassical mansions, narrow cobblestone alleys, and Venetian fortresses. As we settle into our comfortable cabins, the crew sets course to Monemvasia, while guests take in views of the Bourtzi castle, that sits on an islet in Nafplion’s harbor, or gaze at the imposing Palamidi fortress, perched atop a hill.

Monemvasia – a medieval fortress town located on a small island, is often referred to as "The Gibraltar of the East.” It is linked to the mainland by a causeway. Monemvasia's fairytale appearance belies its historical significance: it has resisted sieges and conquests for centuries. Captain Savvas secures a berth on the small dock close to the centre of town, which is only a short but steep taxi ride up the hill.

We spend our evening wandering through stone streets within its mighty walls, discovering Byzantine churches, charming squares and hidden corners, that whisper tales of yesteryears. Chief Steward Adonis and stewardess Marianna accompany us, making sure we find our way back from the town’s labyrinth of small alleys.

Over breakfast the next day, plans are made for a water-sports filled day. When the captain tells us “I know just the place”, we all know we will be in for a treat, and what a treat it is… Nestled between the rocks, and hardly visible from the sea, we anchor in a beautiful secluded bay. Here, the day is spend testing out all of Africa I’s toys. As some of the guests take the Jet Ski’s to explore a nearby village built around a natural harbour, other test out the flyboards, subs, SeaBobs and wakeboards. Meanwhile the crew has set up an impromptu champagne picnic on the beach, whilst a local friendly sheep herder looks on in bewildered amusement.

Day three promises leisure mixed with luxury as we wake up to gentle waves carrying us towards Spetses – an island known for its pine forests and secluded beaches. Spetses exudes elegance with horse-drawn carriages being one preferred mode of transport due to restrictions on private vehicles.

Once there, we explore rich captains’ mansions turned museums, followed by an evening visit of a local church to celebrate Greek Easter. Candles and fireworks light up the small street, and as night falls upon Spetses, we enjoy cocktails on board followed by a truly spectacular dinner. Our party all votes the chef, who won the Chef’s Competition at the 2024 Mediterranean Yacht Show, as the best we ever experienced on a yacht. But the best was still to come…

That night, a memorable dance battle unfolds between the guests and the members of Africa's team. Outclassed by their lineup featuring a skilled break dancer, we had no choice but to concede defeat, leaving the crew to triumphantly claim the prize.

The next dawn found us anchored along the fragrant, pine-laden southern coast of Poros. Tied up so close to the shore, it felt as if we can reach out and brush the island with our fingertips. A bustle of excitement lures us towards the swim platform where, to our amazement, Africa's crew is assembling an enormous barbecue. "What's a Greek Easter without the quintessential lamb roast?" Adonis proclaimed. As if on cue, the deckhands emerge bearing an entire lamb which would spend the ensuing hours slowly turning over the glowing embers. Surrounded by generous helpings of food and a crew that had come to resemble family, we extend an invitation for the whole crew to join in the communal Easter celebration on the aft deck.

That evening, our final leg brings us back towards mainland Greece, ending in Athens – in the bay of Vouliagmeni, for one final culinary feast; local specialties paired with renowned Greek wines culminate in a sensory celebration. We reflect on these last few days that have etched themselves not just into our photo albums but also into our life stories.

While this journey lasts only five days - starting at Nafplion's historic elegance going through Monemvasia's medieval mystery then embracing Spetses' relaxed rhythm and anchoring in stunningly blue waters, until docking in Athens - each moment aboard crafts narratives beyond mere travel, touching essences within us about exploration's true meaning: discovering not just places but ourselves amongst them too.

Africa I can still be chartered in Greece this summer, from August 21 to September 8th, with 20% discounts for 14-18 day charters. Contact Fotis Geranios at IYC for details or call your own charter broker.

LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

Fleet update: Camper & Nicholson welcomed the 38.4-metre Feadship motor yacht Calypso, and the 63.4-metre custom Halter Marine motor yacht SuRI to its charter fleet.

New for charter: 43.2-metre Vitters sailing yacht Mystere is now available for charter with Y.CO.

YachtIn has announced that the 52-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Aily is now available for charter in the East and West Mediterranean

Fleet update: IYC welcomed the 52-metre Akula, of Baglietto’s T52 line, to it’s charter fleet.

Fill the Gap: Yachting Partners International is offering a 50% discount to charter the 52-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Seven Sins:

• August 13th to 18th, 2024

• Ibiza to Ibiza or Ibiza to Bonifacio

• Now accepting 150,000 EUR (plus expenses)

• Inquire with Harrison MacManus by phone/ WhatsApp at +33 7 64 78 53 86, or by email at [email protected].

Reductions & Specials: Northrop & Johnson is offering a discount to those wishing to charter the 40.06-metre Sunseeker motor yacht TC in the US Virgin Islands. The yacht can be chartered for 149.900 USD (plus expenses) per week this August.

Reductions & Specials: Northrop & Johnson is also offering a 10% discount off remaining 2024 charter dates for the 37.95-metre Sanlorenzo motor yacht Premura. 2025 charter dates are now also available for this yacht.

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DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

Travel Inspiration: Get-away to the Galapagos 🐢

With over 127 islands, the Galapagos Archipelago in Ecuador is known for its crystal-clear waters, jaw-dropping landscapes, and rich biodiversity. With the closest point to the mainland being 600 miles from the mainland’s west coast, this remote sanctuary makes for an idyllic charter destination.

Each island has its own unique charm, allowing visitors to choose between livelier towns or more tranquil coasts. The most populated Galapagos island is Santa Cruz, home to 12,000 inhabitants. The smallest town, Puerto Velasco Ibarra, located on Floreana Island, boasts a population of only 200.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos boasts rich biodiversity. Reputed for its flora and fauna, the islands are home to unique marine species due to the convergence of ocean currents. Nearly 20 percent of marine life is endemic to the islands, and can be admired by snorkeling through the coral off your anchorage, to scuba diving alongside hammerhead sharks and manta rays.

Only a short tender ride away, the islands also offer a plethora of activities on dry land, from trekking to the top of Sierra Negra Volcano to exploring the white sandy beaches lining the coasts of the islands. To delve into the world of navigation and exploration, why not visit the Charles Darwin Research Hub?

Combining adventure and leisure, this unique getaway is particularly suited to seafood lovers. It comes as no surprise that fresh seafood is at the core of the local cuisine. In addition to the native gastronomy, a variety of restaurants, including fine dining experiences and fusion restaurants, are also available on the islands.

SOCIAL MEDIA POST OF THE WEEK

@iycyachts shared this carousel unveiling brand new images of this unique catamaran charter yacht, the 43.5-metre THIS IS IT. 📷

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