A fascinating blend of technology and a desire to honor nature and its resources is turning the “typical” charter yacht excursion on its head in new and delightful ways.
Here are five of the biggest private yacht trends currently taking place around the globe:
- The eco-friendly yacht, inviting the outside in and bringing travelers closer to the elements.
- Open concept design, reflecting ample open-air space and the opportunity for stunning views at every angle.
- Smart yachts. Just as a home can be enhanced with smart control of temperature, security, WiFi, and other functionality, the same is happening in luxury yachts.
- Unique yacht trends, extravagant and larger-than-life. You won’t believe what you can find on board!
- Finally, there are the supersize yachts playing host to an extended group of family or friends.
The private yacht charter of your choice can be customized in so many ways. The examples below are only a sampling of what exists in today’s yacht charters. If you have questions about which amenities, features, and other bonuses are available on board the type of vessel you prefer, NJ Charters can provide answers.
#1: The Environmentally Friendly Yacht Charter
Lowering the overall environmental impact of a private yacht can be addressed from a number of angles.
Builders now strive to identify natural and green-certified building materials. Technology allows for the harnessing of the sun, wind, and the waves for alternative energy sources. Wastewater treatment methods and compostable supplies are used, along with the recycling and elimination of excessive plastic waste. Even minimizing noise on board can improve conditions for local wildlife.
One exemplary eco-friendly private yacht is the Black Pearl, recently awarded a Boat International Design and Innovation Award. The hybrid diesel-electric engine does not require a charging station, and electricity is generated and sent back to the batteries when the boat is under sail. Its owner wanted to create a zero-impact yacht and succeeded admirably.
Another example of note is the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht. The model was unveiled at a show several weeks ago. The design features vacuum-sealed tanks of liquid hydrogen, making this an emission-free vessel (water is the only byproduct).
Open-Concept Yacht Design
Any fan of home design shows is familiar with the phrase “open concept.” It is now influencing the yacht charter industry in equal measure. Open concept designs invite togetherness, bonding, and socialization with the elimination of unnecessary barriers or blockages.
It also delivers better views of the world passing by: the Irisha won design awards for its custom glasswork, including one of the biggest pieces of European compound curved glass ever made. On other private yachts, one can find hidden privacy canopies to allow guests the opportunity to see the sights without being seen, and photochromic functionality to darken windows, provide shade, and protection from UV rays. Open-concept design is also ideal in how it provides space for the disabled and smoothly connects multiple levels and decks on a yacht for ease of movement.
Smart Yachts
New technologies are improving all aspects of a luxury yacht, including navigation, safety, and extraordinary convenience. Spending time on board now feels as comfortable as sitting in your own living room, and it can be more posh than the finest hotel suite.
Software and application solutions now connect GPS, weather alerts, wind sensors, and much more to phones, tablets, and computers. In 2019, for the first time ever, a yacht was featured at the Consumer Electronics Show. The Adonis features interactive touch screens and voice commands. Software seamlessly connects all tech on board. The late Paul Allen envisioned the Octopus not only as one of the world’s most luxurious yachts but also as a steward of scientific research. It has been used in expeditions measuring sea ice and locating shipwrecks.
For many owners the “smartest” application of smart tech is in improvement of security features. The Eclipse, built for Roman Abramovich, has an “anti-paparazzi” laser-based system that detects the use of digital cameras and blurs the pictures taken.
Unique Yacht Trends
There are so many features which can make a yacht stand out from the crowd. Here are a few we’ve spotted recently:
- Glass-bottom underwater observation lounge
- Wine cellar
- Cinema room
- Garden
- Yoga studio
- Priceless art gallery
- An on-ship submarine
- Recording studio
- Concert hall
- Complete spa
- Swedish sauna
- High-technology gymnasium
- Infinity edge swimming pool
Supersize Yachts
Typically a private yacht charter can play host to a maximum of 12 guests at a time. These supersize yachts are the biggest of the big. They evoke true awe; and unlike the crowded quarters of a cruise ship, where the guest-to-crew ratio is generally abysmal, these luxury yachts sport as many as 3 or 4 crew members for every guest on board. Service is top-notch and the amenities are over the top.
Azzam is currently the largest private yacht in the world. Commissioned by the President of the United Arab Emirates, it measures 590 feet in length and can travel in excess of 32 knots (59 km/h; 37 mph). Eclipse is the second largest; on board are 9 decks, a submarine dock, and a discoteque. Eclipse was named the 2011 Motor Yacht of the Year at the World Superyacht Awards. Dubai is the third-largest private yacht on earth. Including crew, staff, and guests, 115 people can be accommodated on board.
Yacht Charter Adventures
There is more to discover than ever on board a private yacht charter. The trends we discussed above can be found all over the world. And since yachts move, various yachts can be found in different worldwide yacht charter cruising destinations. If you find a yacht that you love, you can often charter the same yacht more than once in different locations. Plus, wouldn’t it feel great to take a trip knowing your carbon footprint does not lay heavy as you travel? You might also enjoy having your own basketball court, turkish bath, or beauty salon on board.
An experienced yacht charter broker is a bit like a fairy godmother who can help your dreams come true. If you seek a private yacht adventure featuring any of these trends, we encourage you to get in touch today.
Here’s to your perfect voyage!
