FLIBS 2024: Behind the scenes with a Charter Broker

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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: Behind the scenes with a Charter Broker

• Charter updates: from TWW Yachts, IYC, Worth Avenue Yachts and Big Blue Expeditions

• Destination spotlight: Hong Kong ☀️

• Post of the week: @fgiyachtgroup shares a reel of their FLIBS party!

TOP STORY

FLIBS 2024: Behind the scenes with a Charter Broker

At this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), Vicky Whitehouse, a Charter Broker with Fraser offered an inside look at the unique appeal of yacht vacations, from thrilling wildlife encounters to luxurious Mediterranean escapes. Her presentation highlighted why more travellers are opting for charters, as well as the level of personalisation and expert guidance that comes with working with a broker.

“Vacationing by yacht is an experience you can’t get anywhere else and a unique way to see the world,” Whitehouse said, emphasising that luxury yachts provide access to stunning destinations across over the 70 percent of water that covers the Earth. For her clients, a yacht serves as a private oasis for exploring both familiar and remote locales, accommodating various preferences, from family adventures to romantic getaways.

Whitehouse explained that one of the biggest advantages of a yacht charter is the opportunity to enjoy a luxury yacht without the responsibility of ownership. She outlined the meticulous process that a charter broker follows to create a seamless, tailored experience:

• Understanding Client Needs: The journey begins with getting to know clients’ desires. “We start by understanding what each guest is looking for, from preferred dates to the number of people on board and specific amenities,” she shared. This helps brokers match clients with the perfect yacht and crew.

• Budgeting: Whitehouse stressed the importance of clear financial planning. “We provide an upfront cost breakdown, covering the weekly charter rate, fuel, dockage, provisions, and VAT, to ensure there are no surprises,” she said. This transparency is key, as charter rates can vary widely depending on yacht size, location, and season.

• Curated Yacht Selection: Based on clients’ preferences and budget, brokers present a hand-picked selection of yachts, complete with detailed specifications, crew profiles, and suggested itineraries. Whitehouse confirms each yacht’s availability with the charter manager and finalise the details, ensuring clients have a range of vetted options.

• Contracts and Logistics: Whitehouse and her team at Fraser handle contracts, compliance checks, and all logistics. “Once the contracts are signed, we require a 50 percent deposit to secure the yacht, with the balance and provisioning allowance due before departure,” she explained. This process is carefully managed to ensure a stress-free start to the trip.

• Personalising the Experience: From dietary preferences to excursions, every detail is planned. Whitehouse frequently sets up a video call with the captain and crew before the charter begins. “This gives clients a chance to connect with the crew and discuss the finer details,” she said.

• In-Charter Support: To provide added convenience, Whitehouse creates a WhatsApp group for clients and the crew, so they can communicate directly throughout the trip. “I stay in touch to make sure everything is going smoothly and to address any needs,” she shared. This could include coordinating last-minute excursions or resolving issues like a malfunctioning hot tub.

• Post-Charter Feedback: After the charter, Whitehouse collects feedback from clients to enhance future experiences and provide valuable insights to the crew, the yacht manager, and her network of charter brokers. 

Whitehouse also touched on the distinct but complementary roles of brokers and charter managers. “As your broker, I represent you, the charter client, and focus on fulfilling your needs, while the charter manager represents the owner, ensuring the yacht is maintained, marketed correctly, and meeting revenue targets,” she explained. This relationship is similar to a buyer-seller dynamic in real estate, with both parties working closely to provide the best possible experience.

To get in touch with Vicky Whitehouse, visit this webpage.

LATEST CHARTER UPDATES

New CA: Douce France

TWW Yachts has added the 42.02-metre Alumarine yacht Douce France to its global charter fleet. This catamaran can accommodate 12 guests in 6 staterooms with a crew of 7.

• Winter 2024/2025: South Pacific

  • High Rate: €115,000 p/w + expenses

  • Low Rate: €115,000 p/w + expenses

• Summer 2025: South Pacific

  • High Rate: €115,000 p/w + expenses

  • Low Rate: €115,000 p/w + expenses

• Learn more here

Special offer: King Benji 

IYC is offering a special promotion for charters onboard the 47-metre Dunya yacht, King Benji, booked by 6 November 2024. Enjoy a 10 percent discount on any booking in 2025. Plus, brokers receive a bonus 18 percent commission.

• Rate: From $250,000 p/w + expenses

• Learn more here

Destination: Miss Stephanie

The 42.09-metre Richmond yacht, Miss Stephanie, is available for charter with Worth Avenue Yachts in Florida and the Bahamas during the holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. She can accommodate 12 in 6 staterooms with a crew of 8.

• Winter 2024/25 Rates: Florida and the Bahamas

  • Low Rate: $135,000 p/week + Expenses

  • High Rate: $155,000 p/week + Expenses

• Learn more here

New CA: Raja

IYC has added the 55-metre Admiral yacht Raja to its global charter fleet, managed by Head of Charter Management for Greece, Xenia Tsipidou. Delivered in 2025, this sistership of GECO will be available for charters in Croatia and Greece,  for up to 12 guests in 6 staterooms.

• Charter Rate start from €330,000 per week + expenses

• Learn more here

Destination: Octopus

The 126.20-metre Lurssen Octopus is available for charters with Big Blue Expeditions in Antarctica from mid-January to mid-February 2025, then will cruise to the Pacific and French Polynesia for Summer 2025. She will return to Antarctica for Winter 2025/26 and is also available in Patagonia. She can host 12 guests in 13 staterooms with a crew of 45.

• December 2024 - February 2025: Antarctica (December to February)

  • High Season: $2,200,000 per week MYBA

  • Low Season: $2,200,000 per week MYBA

• June - September 2025: Pacific & French Polynesia

  • High Season: $2,200,000 per week MYBA

  • Low Season: $2,200,000 per week MYBA

• Learn more here

Yacht Charter Market: Presented by YachtEye

From onboard menus, to water toys, crew profiles and the trip itinerary, find out how essential trip information can be made digital with YachtEye. 👀📲

• YachtEye is software for superyachts that digitises essential information for the owner, guests and crew.

• Our software means that key information for everyone onboard can be made digital and accessible via the web, the YachtEye iPad or mobile app.

• Make communications before and during the trip or charter run smoothly, as everyone onboard has access to the most up-to-date information.

yachteyesyt

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Seamlessly connect your yacht, crew and guests on one platform to share the fun! Visit yachteye.com or contact [email protected] to learn more.

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

Hong Kong

Hong Kong, a vibrant fusion of East and West, stands out as an exceptional superyacht charter destination. Renowned for its iconic skyline and bustling harbour, this city offers guests an unparalleled experience, blending rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. Its reputation as a financial hub and gastronomic paradise attracts travellers from around the globe, making it an exciting base for yacht charters.

The coastline of Hong Kong boasts a plethora of breathtaking islands and secluded beaches. Popular yachting marinas, such as the Aberdeen Marina Club and the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, provide excellent facilities for vessels. Guests can explore stunning destinations like Lamma Island, known for its serene beaches and hiking trails, or the picturesque Sai Kung, famous for its clear waters and vibrant fishing villages.

Hong Kong enjoys a subtropical climate, with high season typically from October to April, when the weather is pleasantly mild. The summer months can be humid, but this period also offers lush marine life, perfect for diving and snorkelling. The local marine environment is rich, featuring diverse species such as colourful corals, playful dolphins, and vibrant fish. Guests can enjoy water sports or simply admire the abundant marine life while cruising.

A day trip to explore Hong Kong’s historic districts, such as the charming streets of Sheung Wan or the bustling markets of Mong Kok, is highly recommended. Guests can immerse themselves in local culture by attending traditional performances, such as Cantonese opera.

To take a piece of Hong Kong home, guests can explore workshops showcasing local crafts, including intricate silk embroidery or bamboo weaving. For a taste of local cuisine, sampling dim sum at Tim Ho Wan or enjoying fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant is a must. Whether on land or sea, Hong Kong offers a captivating experience for every charter guest.

SuperYacht Times will be hosting the Asia-Pacific Superyacht Summit in Hong Kong in June 2025. Read all about last year’s edition here.

POST OF THE WEEK

fgiyachtgroup

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