All About Toys

While destination, size, and layout play crucial roles in yacht charter selection, toys are typically the deciding factor when choosing between similar yachts. Anna Granlund, IYC's Head of Charter Management in Monaco, notes: "When clients are choosing between similar yachts, the selection of toys makes a big difference as they can visualize all the activities and things they can do onboard." 

This sentiment is echoed by IYC's Senior Charter Manager, Heather Hatcher:" You can take two identical 164’ (50m) yachts with five cabins and nine crew based in the same location, but if one has a waterslide and e-foils, plus wave runners and other inflatables, you can bet the client will choose the yacht with the most toys."

The importance of toys has evolved to become a driving factor in the yacht selection process. As Abigail Davies, IYC Charter Consultant, adds: "It may be that one yacht has extra or double what the other similar-sized yacht has. Toys will always influence choice, especially within the same price bracket as clients can maximize their investment and time on the water."

Toys For All

The evolution of battery and inflatable technology, coupled with shifting client preferences, has expanded onboard toy options. Now, there is truly something for everyone. Yachts that offer a wider array of options increase the likelihood that each guest onboard will find something for them.

Captain Nikos Sarris from the 141' (43m) SANCTUARY comments: "Preferences often vary within a group. Families tend to enjoy more user-friendly options like water slides and floating platforms, whereas adults often request more adrenaline-fueled equipment like wakeboards and Seabobs." 

Water-based fun can also be a way for groups to bond and connect. Frankie Maxwell, IYC's US Sales and Charter Director, adds: "Watersports are often group activities, so the more time guests spend in the water, the more engaged they are with each other and the beautiful surroundings." 

Davies emphasizes the importance of maximizing toy usage, especially within multi-generational groups: "One trip I organized had the crew utilizing all the toys; they even arranged an onboard Olympics. It is all about making the most of the toys and that crew interaction."

Variety isn't just important but also the amount of each toy at guests' disposal, avoiding guests having to wait, which is precisely why the 154' (47m) KING BENJI goes above most and offers four jet skis, similar to SANCTUARY offering four Seabobs. "If you offer just one more jet ski, one more e-foil, one more Seabob, etc, then the yacht is in a much better position for increased bookings to come through," says IYC Charter Consultant Carrie Freeman. Thanks to improved onboard space utilization and storage solutions, smaller to mid-range yachts can now accommodate even more toys. 

Trending Toys

While the toy box has expanded significantly recently, classic favorites like jet skis and Seabobs remain essential to an onboard offering. Granlund explains: "Despite the novelty and allure of new toys, it is important that yachts continue to carry the timeless favorites that have been popular for years." Captain Chris Hodges of the 164' (50m) BON VIVANT, adds: "Jet skis are always a must-have on the charter scene as they are so accessible and don't require much skill or physical ability." 

However, alongside these classics, the toy market has evolved, and newer toys have come onto the scene. Both electric and foiling toys have surged in popularity, becoming more reliable, easier to use and maintain, with the added benefit of quieter operation. The majority of various-sized yachts today such as the 164’ (50m) AS YOU WISH and the 121’ (37m) KOJU carry a selection of e-foils and boards. Hatcher notes, "E-foils and electric boards have been all the rage over the past few years, and as technology improves, these items are consistently being updated and replaced so yachts have the newest and most advanced onboard." 

From flying over the water to jumping on top, inflatables play a huge part in a typical day onboard. Inflatables have come on leaps and bounds; the 221' (68m) LOON has played a pivotal role in collaborating with inflatable brand FunAir to develop various toys in response to requests, the Yacht Slide being a pioneering creation. According to Freeman: "Inflatables are now extremely popular, but the one that is consistently requested is the slide."

From slides, inflatable climbing walls and gladiator-style setups like on KING BENJI to the more relaxing inflatable pool with shaded sun loungers like on the 155' (47m) SEA CLASS, inflatables offer that extra dimension. "Inflatables create the perfect setting for the day; guests can lounge around and enjoy cocktails while watching others on watersports or those using the slide from our sundeck," adds Captain Derek Pearce of SEA CLASS.

These additional inflatables can also create more entertaining space for guests; Freeman comments: "The inflatable on-the-water beach club is a no-brainer for any charter yacht looking to maximize its potential; it is a quick and easy way to stand out from the crowd. It also allows smaller yachts to be more creative with space and still compete with bigger ones." 

Niche Requests

Many charter yachts now offer specialized equipment and programs to cater to guests with particular interests or those seeking unique experiences. This trend reflects the growing demand for more immersive charter experiences beyond typical offerings. Some yachts, like the 180' (55m) NEXT CHAPTER, have carved out a niche by providing high-quality tournament and spearfishing gear for a dedicated sportfishing program. 

While water-based fun dominates the toy collections, yachts are expanding their inventories to include other sports. For example, LOON now has the latest golfing simulator onboard for enthusiasts to tee off from the swim platform. There is also now more traction for land-based adventures; the 145' (44m) LA LA LAND carries electric bikes, making it easy for guests to explore ashore, or the electric mountain bikes on offer with the 164' (50m) OURANOS.

The growing interest in wellness travel has also given rise to more accessories that cater to this. Most yachts now feature extensive gym equipment, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes, all perfect for workouts on the water. Whether enjoying a favorite sport, exploring a new destination, or maintaining a routine, specialized offerings mean that each guest can find an activity of preference onboard. 

Learn New Skills

The days of yacht charter experiences solely centred around luxury are long gone. Charter guests are increasingly seeking opportunities to learn new skills and challenge themselves. 

Learning new skills during a charter can give a sense of achievement. Xenia Tsipidou, IYC's Head of Charter Management in Greece, explains: "Clients not only use the toys as a means of exploration, but it also gives them a sense of accomplishment, learning new skills they may or may not have experienced before." Captain Pearce adds: "I have noticed more guests asking for Fliteboards and E-surfs, and it is always fun to see guests at the start of a charter who may find it challenging to progress into semi-pros by the end." 

Various yachts from the fleet, such as LOON, KING BENJI, and the 180’ (55m) RARE FIND, have specialized crew members onboard, such as kitesurfing instructors and dive masters. "Having experienced crew who are dive, kite, surf instructors, etc. adds huge value to the program and offers clients so much more than a luxurious platform for vacation," adds Hatcher. 

The learning and entertainment factor can extend past the toy box, focussing on what the crew can offer. Freeman says: "If you have crew members who are dive masters, expert fishermen, nannies, photographers, videographers, entertainers, fire dancers, etc., this all adds an extra layer, so even once you have maxed out on the toys, there are still ways to enhance the charter program." 

Chasing Fun

Another rising trend is the inclusion of chase boats. "Chase boats are becoming increasingly asked for. Yachts such as SANCTUARY, PISCES, and BON VIVANT have all recently had brand new chase boats added," comments Granlund. 

Not only can these boats provide enhanced comfort for shoreside visits compared to traditional tenders, but they can also accommodate a broader range of activities and significantly expand the possibilities for further entertainment and convenience during a charter experience. "The addition of our new chase boat has elevated guest satisfaction and provides more tailored and exhilarating watersports activities," adds Captain Sarris.

Just Add Water

A well-stocked toy box and opportunities for plenty of water-based fun have become crucial differentiators in the market. While destinations and accommodations remain fundamental to a yacht selection, the toys that create the memories stand out. They provide a unique selling point, setting yachts apart from the competition and offering guests a more comprehensive selection of activities, enhancing the overall experience and catering to diverse preferences. 

Toys offer endless possibilities for fun, adventure, and family bonding. As the industry evolves, the IYC fleet will continue to add the latest innovations to the toy box, from toy staples to state-of-the-art watersports equipment and the best inflatables. With the right yacht and its toys, all you need to add is water. 

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This article was featured in the Fall/Winter Issue of HORIZONS Magazine. Browse the full issue here.