Yacht Charters rapid growth

by Carolyn Smith on 24 Jan 2007 The yacht charter industry continues to grow at a rapid rate across the globe with new destinations and larger yachts on offer every season.

Charter World Yachting Holidays’ Brook Felsenthal says, 'The industry has grown massively over recent years, with an explosion of operators and vessels in all areas, but particularly the Mediterranean. Local operators agree that bareboating has become, in their words, 'touristic'.'

More people have seen the advantages of the holiday style (probably from the shore) and have returned next season to give it a go.

Generally, the formal qualifications remain minimal and the operators, while happy to increase fleet sizes and bookings, are admitting that damages (albeit mostly minimal) are on the rise.

Brooks says that the low cost of the holiday style continues to make it attractive.

'In terms of cost, yachts charters in the Mediterranean have been stagnant for at least ten years – yacht production costs with new technologies have decreased and occupancy has increased.'

It is still possible to charter a near new French 40’ yacht with three double cabins for $600 per day, which equates to only $100 per person per day for your transport, accommodation and entertainment.

Bareboaters can now choose up to Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54’s or Beneteau 57’s, while the Lagoon 44 flybridge and Fountaine Pajot Salina 48’s are the largest bareboat catamarans. Designers are also getting more user friendly and innovative.

The new Lagoon 420 catamaran is fitted with electric engines, which will hopefully lead the way for many to follow. Besides the obvious environmental advantages, the engines produce a smooth acceleration and extraordinary torque. The most amazing part is said to be the virtual silence of leaving and entering on anchorage.

The supply of shore power is now so prevalent throughout the Mediterranean, that charging issues do not exist.

Power boaters also have an increasing choice including Riviera 42’s, Beneteau 42’s trawler and Lagoon Power 44’s. All are now available as bareboats with cruising speeds of up to 20 knots.

Equipment levels have also continued to grow, with bow thrusters, 220 volt power and even electric genoa winches not uncommon.

Brook says that the largest growth area has been in skippered and crewed charters. People who have never had the experience or thought about a holiday afloat are often grouping together to take a skipper at approximately $200 per day between 6 or 8 people and getting a free sailing lesson as well as a personal guide.

This season, new charter operators have begun in Vietnam, Montenegro and Malta, as well as a list of new bases in existing areas allowing better access to new cruising grounds.

Brook says that the industry is still dominated by sole operators with a fleet size from 15 – 40 yachts. Usually, the operators are family run and sell the brand of yachts they offer for charter, so the service and spare parts is always on hand.

In Europe, yacht charter brokers such as Charter World are the most common way to book a yachting holiday.

The ability to offer choices and compare charter destinations, operators and discount air and associated travel options are just some of the advantages, using this expert advice.

Charter World has produced a range of charter DVD’s on many areas which offer an excellent insight into the cruising areas.

For further details on chartering, contact Charter World Yachting Holidays, www.charterworld.com.au (1800) 335039 or (03) 9521 0033.

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