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Owner Insight: Mr Kourtesis on restoring 33.2m Xiphias for charter
The 33.2m Xiphias — Greek for “swordfish” — was built in 1974 by Chantier de l’Estérel. Designed by André Mauric, John Bannenberg & Rowell, she exudes timeless charm.
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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: Owner Insight: Mr Kourtesis on restoring 33.2m Xiphias for charter
Charter updates: Yachts now available for charter this summer in the Med and Caribbean
Plus: MYBA announces new board members
YachtEye: Why paperless itineraries are the future for your charter
TOP STORY
Owner Insight: Mr Kourtesis on restoring 33.2m Xiphias for charter
The 33.2m Xiphias — Greek for “swordfish” — was built in 1974 by Chantier de l’Estérel. Designed by André Mauric, John Bannenberg & Rowell, she exudes timeless charm.
The only Esterel 105 model, Xiphias underwent multiple refits in the early 2000s. Her latest transformation began in 2022 under new owners, Mr and Mrs Kourtesis, with Apostolos Molindris overseeing a full rebuild, including new interiors and refurbished engines. Completed in April 2024 in Perama, Greece, her most significant refit gives her a new lease on life.
Now available for charter with IYC, Mr Kourtesis shares his family’s journey in this interview.
Mr and Mrs Kourtesis (Credit: Mr Kourtesis)
How did you get into yachting, and what inspired you to purchase Xiphias?
My life and career have always revolved around the sea. As a sea captain from Andros Island, a place with a deep maritime tradition, I grew up respecting the art of shipbuilding. Xiphias represents a harmony between my profession and passion—a vessel with history and cultural significance that deserved our care.
Our decision to own a superyacht was specifically about Xiphias, not just any yacht. She is a piece of history, showcasing craftsmanship and Jon Bannenberg’s signature elegance. More than her beauty, she carries a legacy that resonates with our family’s roots.
Her connection to Andros made her acquisition even more meaningful. Growing up, we admired Xiphias as she graced the waters during her time with her original owners. Her arrival in Andros Chora always sparked excitement across the island, especially among children. To us, Xiphias is more than a yacht; she is a cherished part of our heritage. This was not just a purchase but a commitment to preserving something extraordinary.
Xiphias (Credit: IYC)
What guided your decision to refit Xiphias, and what was the scope of the work done?
A yacht is not merely a possession; it is a legacy. We felt responsible for restoring Xiphias while equipping her for modern yachting. This was a project of passion and respect, ensuring she remained safe, comfortable, and exceptional for years to come.
The refit was extensive, covering structural and aesthetic elements. We worked with Apostolos Molindris, known for the Christina O refit. He led the interior design, while Mistral Limited and project lead Pepe managed the technical and structural work, ensuring top-tier craftsmanship.
Key upgrades included reinforcing the aft deck with a steel structure, replacing all teak decks, adding a new exterior staircase, modernising the bridge with advanced systems, and installing zero-speed stabilisers for greater comfort. Inside, we redesigned the interiors for understated luxury while preserving Bannenberg’s vision. Every decision balanced tradition with innovation to retain Xiphias’ authenticity.
Xiphias’ main saloon (Credit: IYC)
How has the refit enhanced your experience onboard?
The refit has taken Xiphias to a new level. Technical upgrades like zero-speed stabilisers, a fully electronic bridge, and Crestron smart suite integration improve performance and safety. Redesigned interiors and expanded decks enhance comfort and elegance.
Sailing her now blends classic charm with modern sophistication. Andros, in particular, feels like a homecoming, linking her story to the island’s maritime heritage. Beyond Andros, we love exploring quieter Aegean waters, where the sea’s beauty reminds me why I’ve dedicated my life to it. Every journey aboard Xiphias is an opportunity to reconnect with the essence of yachting and the timeless allure of the sea.
Aft deck dining (Credit: IYC)
What impact has the refit had on the popularity of charters onboard Xiphias?
Since the refit, Xiphias has gained significant recognition as a charter yacht. Her compact size and remarkable fuel efficiency make her ideal for charter, allowing smooth navigation through shallow waters and access to secluded bays often unreachable by larger yachts.
Despite her size, Xiphias boasts an impressive interior volume of 147 GT, offering guests expansive living spaces and generously proportioned decks perfect for relaxation and socialising.
Her classic aesthetic, combined with enhanced amenities and an exceptional crew, makes her a sought-after option for discerning clients. She offers a rare combination of historical significance, modern luxury, and the ability to explore the unique beauty of the sea, which has undoubtedly contributed to her growing popularity.
Master stateroom with deck access (Credit: IYC)
Find out more about chartering the yacht from IYC this summer with rates from €47,000p/week + expenses.
Yacht Charter Market: Powered by YachtEye
As the 2025 Mediterranean season approaches, one thing is clear: paper is out, and smart, seamless solutions are in.
With YachtEye, crews can update information instantly, communicate clearly, and keep everything in one place from anywhere on board. Here’s how:
Itineraries that evolve with your guests
The itinerary is more than just a list of stops. It’s the story of the trip. With YachtEye’s Itinerary Builder, you can craft a beautiful, visual journey showing each destination.
Crew introductions that are personal and professional
With Crew Profiles, guests know who’s who before they even step on board. Friendly bios and photos help build familiarity and trust from day one, while reducing the repetitive “what’s your name again?” moments.
Menus that update as quickly as your galley does
Whether it’s today’s wellness smoothies, tomorrow’s wine pairings, or a late-night cigar list, YachtEye’s Menus feature lets you share everything in one elegant, digital space.
The full toybox presented perfectly
Our Tenders & Toys section brings the yacht’s best fun to life. Guests can browse all available toys with photos, setup details, and usage notes, making it easier to choose and even easier for the crew to manage.
Documents without the desk clutter
From safety plans to welcome folders, everything that used to be printed can now live in YachtEye’s Documents section.
Want to enhance your charter experience? Contact us today! Seamlessly connect your yacht, crew and guests on one platform to share the fun! Visit yachteye.com or contact [email protected] to learn more.
LATEST CHARTER UPDATES
Find the latest charter news here. Email us your charter updates for a chance to be featured at [email protected].
53m Drumbeat for charter with Camper & Nicholsons
Drumbeat | 53m (173’11” ) | 374 GT | Alloy Yachts | 2002
10 guests in 5 staterooms with 10 crew
Rates from: EUR 210,000 (per week + expenses)
Region: West Mediterranean
34.36m Kings Lair for charter with Ocean Independence
Kings Lair | 34.36m | 269 GT | Benetti | 2023
Year round cruising in the Caribbean
10 guests in 5 staterooms with 8 crew
Rates from: USD 140,000 (per week + expenses)
50m Second Love for charter with IYC
Second Love | 47m (164’1” ) | 499 GT | Westport Yachts | 2010/2025
Summer cruising: Bahamas
12 guests in 6 staterooms
Rates from: USD 230,000 (per week + expenses)
CA: IYC / Katie Stevens
48.51m Menorca for charter with Ocean Independence
Menorca | 49m | 396 GT | Botje Ensing & Co | 1961
Summer cruising region: Mediterranean, current region: France and Italy
12 guests in 6 staterooms with 10 crew
Rates from: EUR 135,000 (per week + expenses)
EVENT NEWS
MYBA 2024 in Genoa (Credit: MYBA)
MYBA has announced the selection of four new Board Members following The MYBA Annual General Meeting ahead of the charter show which begins next week. Joining the MYBA Board for a two-year term are Agata Grillo, Frederic Cretin, Laurent Roussillon and Tim Morley.
In addition, the MYBA Board said farewell to Eleonora Pitasso who did not stand for re-election after many years on the board.
Congratulations to the new board members and good luck on their coming term.
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