There is something about the allure of travelling under sail that makes a sailing yacht an irresistible choice for many charter clients. With sailing widely regarded as the purest form of yachting, chartering a luxury sailing superyacht is a truly unforgettable experience. The IYC charter fleet includes a wide range of sailing yachts to choose from, with different sizes and types on offer. From family-friendly cruisers to racing-focused performance craft, there is a sailing yacht for everyone. So why should you consider opting for a sailing yacht for your next charter? Here are our top tips on why a sailing charter is such a magical experience.
Luxurious comfort
While it is true that many motoryachts have more space than the average sailing yacht of the same size, what is also true is that there is no need for a compromise on comfort and space with a modern sailing superyacht. With large spaces, inside and out, and generous living areas, sailing yachts are cleverly designed and boast large spaces and sumptuous outfitting. One of the most iconic sailing yachts ever built, 288’9’ (88m) the Maltese Falcon has all the qualities of a sailing yacht, including award-winning performance, yet is as luxurious as a motoryacht with huge on board spaces – truly the best of both worlds. Or why not choose 150’1’’ (46m) Aiaxaia, a one-of-a-kind yacht that delivers for every kind of guest, including passionate sailors, gastronomy lovers, sports enthusiasts and sun worshippers? One thing is for sure, a sailing superyacht offers a beautiful and luxurious setting for enjoying a charter.
On-water living
Being on board a sailing yacht allows guests the feeling of being close to the water and able to appreciate the sensation of true on-water living. Guests can relax on sweeping decks, dangle their legs in the water, or take in the views from a comfortable cockpit. With large decks, there are plenty of spaces to take advantage when on board a sailing yacht, for socialising, relaxing, dining or more. A yacht that cleverly blends luxury and performance for on-water living is 125' 2" (38.14m) Twilight, which stands out for her panoramic views, al fresco dining and easy sail handling – take advantage of the yacht’s stunning flybridge, with seating for 10 and incredible views.
Regatta thrills
Performance focused yachts are perfect for experiencing the incomparable regatta atmosphere, racing on azure waters for victory against other competitive superyachts. With a busy calendar of regatta events to time a charter around there are plenty of options for charter guests wanting to experience a sailing regatta. 131’ (39.93m) Aristarchos is the largest yacht ever built by acclaimed sailing yacht builder Nautor’s Swan and boasts sleek looks and impressive performance credentials when racing under sail. Meanwhile the Maltese Falcon also has impressive racing credentials, with a number of wins to her name including Porto Cervo, Sardinia, in September 2018 where she collected no less than five cups, winning on every race day, coming top of her class and being named the overall regatta winner. There is something majestic about watching a large superyacht cutting through the water with ease with its huge sails unfurled – gazing upwards, it is easy to appreciate why modern sailing yachts are such a marvel of design. 164’1’’ (50m) Baracuda Valletta stands out on the water thanks to her distinctive purple sails – combining open-plan living and extended windows that flood her living spaces with life, she promises a memorable setting for a charter.
Low-impact yachting
Sailing yachts have a much lower impact than their motoryacht cousins, making them an efficient and low-impact yachting choice. Guests can enjoy the stillness and beauty of their surroundings as their charter yacht silently glides through the water, marvelling at how a sailing yacht harnesses the power of the wind. The use of sails helps minimize the impact on beautiful cruising grounds. A capacity for sail power, as opposed to sole reliance on motor power, also means that sailing yachts are often able to travel further than motoryachts, giving them access to a wider range of destinations.
Hands-on charter
The friendly crew of charter sailing yachts will be more than happy to talk guests through how the yacht is sailed, or let guests be hands on by involving them and showing them the ropes of sailing. Or why not just enjoy an easy on-water lesson in a smaller dinghy and make the most of the combined knowledge of your sailing-focused crew? For a really special experience why not take advantage of the Maltese Falcon’s advanced sailing system that allows the yacht to be sailed single handed, with her sails unfurling at the push of a button. Being so close to the water, guests can easily take advantage of being on the water and make the most of water activities and the stunning waters of their charter grounds.
Timeless classic styling
When many people imagine a sailing yacht they picture the classic yachts of the past. A modern classic yacht, that pairs a timeless design with modern technologies and luxurious comfort, is the perfect option for those who yearn for a beautiful classic yacht experience but without any compromise on amenities. Why not charter 183’9’’ (56m) Aria 1, a classic-style authentic schooner, that combines state of the art construction with a timeless and elegant design? Exceptional seakeeping and performance under sail make her an exciting base for those looking to experience the thrills of traditional sailing and life right on the water.
With so many reasons to charter a sailing yacht, you can be sure of a special experience on board a sailing superyacht. Talk to the IYC charter team today about crafting your own bespoke sailing charter.
For more information on IYC’s range of services please contact the IYC office most convenient to you. IYC has offices in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Miami, Nantucket, Great Lakes, London, Monaco, Greece, Russia, Croatia, Montenegro, Scandinavia, Malta and Corfu. To contact an IYC office click here.