When it comes to luxury yacht charters, the price tag can be quite hefty. Take for example the 255-foot superyacht Malia, which was sold in 2023 for a staggering $120 million. However, if you want to experience the opulence of this vessel, you can rent it for $930,000 per week. But don’t be fooled by the base price alone. With many large yacht charters, additional surcharges can quickly add up. For services such as fuel, food, drinks, marina fees, onshore activities, and special requests, be prepared to pay an extra 35% of the base price. Cruising in Europe also comes with a value-added tax of around 20% of the base fee, although this percentage can vary by country. On top of that, crew gratuities typically range from 10% to 20% of the charter fee. When you factor in all these additional costs, a week cruising the French Riviera on Malia could set you back a jaw-dropping $1,441,500.
Despite the astronomical cost, chartering a yacht like Malia comes with an unforgettable experience. Guests can embark on stunning tours of the Mediterranean, from glamorous Monaco to the picturesque Italian Riviera, with island-hopping adventures to Sardinia and the Maddalena islands. The yacht boasts eight state rooms, accommodating up to 12 guests, including a lavish master VIP suite. According to Sacha Williams, the global charter marketing director at Northrop & Johnson, Malia’s broker, the bedrooms are akin to hotel rooms, providing a luxurious and comfortable stay that doesn’t feel like being on a yacht. The main deck features a spacious saloon with a bar and dining area, illuminated by full-length windows, while the upper deck lounge dazzles with a striking glass chandelier and an extensive audio-visual system. An elevator connects the various decks, enhancing the convenience and accessibility of the yacht.
Like a floating hotel, Malia offers amenities that rival top-tier accommodations. The yacht boasts a gym and spa, complete with a massage room, sauna, and Turkish hammam bath. Williams highlights the growing trend of wellness on yachts, with spa therapists offering a range of treatments beyond traditional massages and facials. The glass-edged infinity pool on the main deck, along with the glass-bottomed Jacuzzi on the sundeck, adds to the luxurious ambiance. Outdoor entertainment is also taken to the next level with an outdoor theater, providing guests with a unique movie-watching experience under the open sky.
While guests may pay a premium for a week aboard Malia, the experience goes beyond the confines of the yacht. Additional leisure vessels, including tenders that guests can use to travel to shore, offer added flexibility and adventure. For fishing enthusiasts, a 46-foot-extreme sportfishing tender is available for deep-sea fishing trips. Guests seeking thrills can explore underwater depths in a shark-shaped submersible, taking in the marine wonders beneath the sea. Crew members not only cater to guests’ needs but also provide instruction on using motorized surfboards and underwater exploration with Seabobs. The yacht’s toy inventory is extensive, featuring jet skis, water skis, paddleboards, and more, catering to a wide range of preferences and interests. The owner’s commitment to fun and entertainment is evident in the diverse array of activities and amenities available onboard.
A significant portion of the charter price goes towards the 21-member crew of Malia, comprising a captain, engineering, and hospitality teams, as well as several chefs. Crew members wear multiple hats, serving not only as hosts but also as personal trainers and entertainers. The crew operates behind the scenes, ensuring the safety and comfort of guests at all times. Williams likens them to swans, gracefully navigating the yacht and attending to guests’ needs seamlessly. Malia’s itineraries are meticulously planned, considering guest preferences, sea conditions, and weather forecasts. The captain can accommodate requests to modify the schedule mid-charter, providing guests with flexibility and tailor-made experiences that cater to their desires.
The Guests of Malia
Guests aboard Malia typically hail from North America, Europe, and the Middle East, according to Williams. These individuals have built their wealth through highly specialized sectors of business, showcasing the diversity of the clientele that indulge in luxury yacht charters. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a family gathering, the guests of Malia represent a select group of individuals who appreciate the exclusivity and sophistication of chartering a world-class yacht.
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