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The ultimate UK staycation for 2021: discover luxury yacht charters onboard superyacht Chess

By Nina Done   7 May 2021

With so much uncertainty surrounding foreign travel, the stellar 25m / 83’ Sunseeker luxury motor yacht CHESS embodies the perfect escape, where you can experience supreme luxury and 5-star service in a yacht charter around the UK's beautiful south coast, where her dedicated crew stand ready to make your dream vacation a reality. 

Built in 2005 as part of their popular 82 range, the motor yacht CHESS has recently been extensively refurbished and is the largest Sunseeker yacht to be available for charter in British waters. The YachtCharterFleet team had the pleasure of being hosted on board last week at its new premier base opposite Portsmouth’s historic shipyard, where CHESS's impressive new features were showcased to perfection.

Sporting a striking cafe au lait palette courtesy of illustrious designer Ken Freivokh, with exterior styling by Don Shead Yacht Design, CHESS radiates pure elegance and style. 

She also boasts an impressive maximum speed of 30 knots and comfortable cruising speed of 22 knots, with her planing hull ideal for zipping between destinations.

Spacious accommodation

Luxury superyacht CHESS comfortably sleeps up to 8 guests in her four beautifully-appointed cabins with plush carpeting throughout; comprising a generous Master Suite, featuring a walk-in-wardrobe, and large VIP cabin opposite, as well as two further doubles, which were updated in the refit and can now be converted into twin beds providing fantastic flexibility for yacht charters.

Further recent refurbishments include attractive cream suede panelling and enlarged windows, which infuse the space with an abundance of natural light highlighting the elegant walnut veneer interiors, sumptuous furnishings and bespoke bed linen courtesy of John Lewis – marking their first ever superyacht project. 

Each cabin also boasts a newly refitted ensuite, fantastic integrated storage options, state-of-the-art plasma OLED TV with apps, including Netflix and Prime, and enhanced high-speed 40mbs WiFi system (5G compatible) ensuring guests are well-connected whatever the destination.

Main social areas

On her main deck level there is a spacious main salon, which is flooded with light courtesy of large flanking windows, with two beautifully refurbished cream leather seating areas coupled with luxurious soft furnishings. In addition, there is a coffee table and further storage spaces, as well as a large wall-mounted plasma TV – making this the perfect place to kick back and unwind with family and friends.

Motor yacht Chess features stunning lines with a generous interior and exterior, offering guests the perfect space to cruise in luxury and style.

Further forward there is a formal starboard dining area, with an open galley opposite, where you can sit and marvel as the chef creates his delectable array of French and Asian fusion dishes. Having spent the last ten years in Japan, chef Nick is hugely passionate about his food and will happily serve up dish after dish of heavenly canapes for guests to feast on. Naturally, the chef will ensure each meal onboard is perfectly tailored around your individual preferences.

There is an additional comfortable seating area located in the helm station forward of the galley, where guests can gaze at the scenery as the captain expertly navigates CHESS towards her next destination. 

Alfresco socialising

On the main deck aft, there is an additional dining area for 8 guests, which is perfectly shaded by the sundeck above; a great place to enjoy your early morning coffee and croissants as you relax and watch the world go by. 

Follow the stairs up to the sundeck, superyacht CHESS’s crowning glory, where you’ll find an impressive large teak dining area, with a starboard bar and grill, perfect for lazy BBQ’s up on the sundeck. Guests can lounge on inviting sunpads located on the sundeck’s forward and aft areas, where they can soak up the summer rays and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of their surroundings.

There is a further sunpad block located on the bow, where guests can experience a spot of heavenly sunbathing whilst the yacht is moored off one of the many beautiful anchorages around this spectacular region. 

Hydraulic swim platform

To optimise space on the sundeck the yacht’s tender has been relocated to the hydraulic swim platform on the aft deck whilst the yacht is cruising. This also means the crew can now launch the boat with ease for anyone wishing to explore their surroundings or take a tender ride ashore. 

Once the tender has been launched, the swim platform can also be lowered into the water for guests keen on taking a refreshing dip in the sea, where convenient retractable bathing steps facilitate their ascent out of the water after their swim. 

CHESS also boasts a raft of paddleboards and kayaks, perfect for exploring the south coast's myriad secluded bays and hidden coves. 

Flexible itineraries around the UK’s beautiful south coast

There are countless picture-perfect places to discover around this beautiful stretch of coastline, whether you are keen on exploring the breathtaking Jurassic coast, visiting Queen Victoria’s idyllic sanctuary on the Isle of Wight, strolling along Cornwall’s array of golden-hued beaches and charming fishing villages or witnessing the captivating beauty of the Scilly Isles; there is a perfect charter destination for everyone to enjoy onboard the luxury yacht CHESS.

With so much to see and do, the South Coast offers its visitors freedom, world-class coastlines, phenomenal scenery and the ultimate rejuvenating escape.

Isle of Wight

Nestled in-between the English channel and the solent, the Isle of Wight is a perennial favourite for holiday makers from the UK and abroad. It’s not hard to see why; with stunning rugged multi-coloured cliffs, clement weather and 500 miles of established walking routes and bridleways, not to mention myriad adventure pursuits on offer, such as sailing, paragliding, and rock climbing. Along with a scattering of golf courses and a huge range of family-oriented activities, there is so much to see and explore on this magical island. 

Visit the needles and take a ride on the world-famous chair lift where you can marvel at the expansive vistas as you descend towards the island's iconic multi-coloured sand bay. Or, take a trip back in time on a tour around Queen Victoria’s favourite holiday home, Osborne House, where she spent many a happy summer with her extensive family and beloved husband Albert by her side.

To the east lies the beautiful secluded Priory Bay, a sheltered curve of pale cream sands and crystal clear waters, accessible only by boat, perfect for a leisurely afternoon swim away from the crowds. Top the day off with a trip to Cowes, the island’s famous sailing mecca where you can rub shoulders with the sailing elite whilst enjoying a cocktail at one of its myriad bars and restaurants.

Jurassic Coast

Spanning 95 miles from Dorset to Devon, this breathtaking stretch of prehistoric coastline is characterised by high limestone cliffs and sweeping golden sands. The Jurassic coast is England’s only natural World Heritage site, steeped in a rich geological past. The region incorporates the popular towns of Swanage, Weymouth, Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton.

Stop off at the lovely township of Lyme Regis, which dates back to the Domesday era, where you can soak up its cultural history and meander through the charming streets that so inspired Jane Austen in her regency novel Persuasion which she wrote after visiting Lyme Regis in the early 19th century.

You can also try your hand at fossil hunting or visiting one of the many museums nestled along the charming towns and villages and rock-hewn bays that perfectly encapsulate the savage beauty of the Jurassic coast.

Devon

Designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the stunning South Devon coast certainly lives up to the hype; with its rugged coastline, secluded beaches, labyrinthine estuaries and historic villages this region is sure not to disappoint anyone wishing to stop off on its shores.

South Devon boasts a vast array of award-winning beaches, including the privately owned blue-flag beach at Blackpool Sands set in a pretty scalloped bay, perfect for anchoring for lunch or dinner, or simply taking a dip into the inviting clear emerald waters. Devon is also well-known for its coastal walks, race sailing and old world pubs.

Cruise the beautiful meandering River Dart, where you can jump off and explore the historical town of Dartmouth, famed for both its naval and engineering importance as well as its rich cultural heritage; boasting castles, forts, historic architecture and museums. 

As the yacht cruises down the river, be sure to check out Agatha Christie’s childhood home and subsequent bolt-hole from where she drew most of her inspiration for her novels. At the end of the estuary lies the historic town of Totnes, which offers a laid-back bohemian vibe contrasting with its chic boutiques and fine dining options, ideal for a spot of shopping followed by a quick bite to eat before heading back to the yacht. 

Another must-see, if you have time, is the enchanting Burgh island, located west of the uber-glamorous town of Salcombe; accessible either on foot from the tiny seaside village of Bigbury-on-sea across the silken sand bars, or by sea tractor at high tide, which is enormous fun.

Cornwall

This destination almost needs no introduction, famed for its vast golden sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, world-class surfing and striking natural beauty, Cornwall is a must-see destination on anyone’s bucket list. 

Situated on the east coast of Cornwall, lies St. Georges island, a lovely nature reserve a stone’s throw from the mainland. Take a tender ride ashore for a hike along the well-trodden Looe to Polperro trail, which offers beautiful panoramic views of the Atlantic sea.

Heading west around the peninsula, make time for a tour of the majestic Pendennis Castle perched on a promontory in the sailing hub of Falmouth Harbour. 

For yacht charters heading west of Falmouth, aim for Penzance, where you will discover Cornwall’s hidden gems; cruise past the enchanting fishing port of Mousehole famous for its dark smuggling past, before dropping anchor in the crystal clear waters of Lamorna Cove, an exquisite sheltered hamlet which has inspired famous creative artists for centuries. Here you can enjoy Cornwall’s spectacular shore diving scene amongst sea kelp, wrasse and inquisitive sea lions. 

Afterwards, perched high on the cliffs above the Atlantic ocean, you’ll find the amazing granite-hewn open-air Minack Theatre, where you and your guests can enjoy a covid-safe show before heading back to enjoy sundowners on the yacht, gazing out to sea as the sun slowly descends over the horizon. 

Why wait for the rest of the world to reopen when you can gain exclusive access to some of the world’s best anchorages right here in the UK from the luxury of a superyacht.

Scilly Isles

Located a couple of hours cruise from Land’s End, Cornwall, the Scilly Isles are an enchanting archipelago of 145 islands, of which only 5 are inhabited, including St. Mary’s, Tresco and St. Martin’s. These islands are famed for their soft sand beaches, caribbean-esque turquoise waters, extraordinary wildlife and untamed beauty.

For yacht charters around this stunning archipelago there are so many places to see and explore you’ll be spoilt for choice. Visit the 19th Century Benedictine Abbey where you'll find the incredible sub-tropical gardens at the Tresco Abbey Garden and Valhalla Collection – home to thousands of exotic plant species, or take a cruise past Rushy Bay on the once-inhabited island of Samson, where you can sit and watch as seals frolic on the shore. 

For those interested in history, we highly recommend a visit to Cromwell’s castle atop a rocky promontory, situated between the idyllic islands of Bryher and Tresco. This tower was built in 1651 and is one of the last surviving Cromwellian fortifications in Britain.

Types of yacht charter

Whether you are looking for an adventurous yachting getaway with friends, a fun-filled family-oriented vacation or a corporate yacht charter weekend with work colleagues, there is something for everyone onboard the stellar luxury superyacht CHESS. 

Celebrate iconic moments

She is also well-suited for special occasions, whether that's a pre-wedding hen or stag do, romantic honeymoon cruise or special milestone birthday or anniversary, CHESS is the perfect venue to celebrate these beloved iconic moments 

Are you marrying the love of your life this summer? Are you searching for the ultimate honeymoon filled with luxury and adventure? Treat your spouse with a staycation charter on board Motor Yacht Chess and enjoy a romantic cruise of the beautiful South Coast.

Fantastic flexibility for yacht charters

Superyacht CHESS can host up to 12 guests whilst sailing, perfect for luxury day charters around the south coast. It's worth noting that day charters are uncommon for superyacts, so CHESS presents a unique opportunity for those wanting to get a taste of the yachting lifestyle for a shorter period of time. 

CHESS also offers a number of impressive itineraries; choose from day charters around the Isle of Wight to 3-day itineraries incorporating the stunning Jurassic coastline all the way up to Torquay in Devon, or 5 and 7-day itineraries which can include the entire south west coast, including Cornwall. For those keen on exploring the Scilly Isles, you can arrange to meet the yacht in Torquay and cruise west from here, either for a 3-day or 7-day itinerary tailored around you.

She is also available for charters further afield in the UK, as well as the Channel Islands and northern France.

You have the flexibility to design your own itinerary and embrace spontaneity.

The sample itineraries are flexible and can be adjusted to suit your needs, which the captain is more than happy to discuss with you. The sky’s the limit when booking a luxury yacht charter onboard CHESS.

How much does it cost to charter luxury yacht CHESS?

Luxury superyacht CHESS is currently offering the unique opportunity for all-inclusive chartering, with the following prices;

  • 1 day all-inclusive - £5000 (June and September)
  • 1 day all-inclusive - £5750 (July and August)
  • 3 night all-inclusive - £17,500
  • 7 night all-inclusive - £40,000 

These rates are inclusive of tax and fuel for the yacht and tender, plus food and hot and cold beverages. 

Additional expenses may include excursions ashore, marina fees and crew gratuities (discretionary), which are not included in the price. Guests have the option to purchase alcohol on board or bring their own.

Health and safety onboard CHESS

The experienced crew onboard are highly trained in all aspects of yacht health and safety, so rest assured you will be in perfectly safe hands throughout your yacht charter.

Furthermore, all the yacht’s crew have been trained in the current Covid-19 safety and sanitation measures to ensure guests have a safe and relaxing experience on board.

Availability and bookings

Chess will be available for all-inclusive charters starting from the 28 of May 2021 and currently has dates available for yacht charters throughout spring and summer, although spaces are filling up fast.

If you are interested in booking a yacht charter onboard M/Y CHESS, please reach out to your chosen yacht charter broker.

For more information about COVID-19, superyacht charter, Social Distancing, travel updates and news, please refer to our Yacht Charter and Coronavirus Guide.

 
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