On-Board VICTORIA DEL MAR

Delivered in 2006, Victoria del Mar was the fourth project in a new series from Seattle-based shipyard Delta Marine. On her owner’s request for an increased interior volume, the yacht’s length and beam were extended – the latter by an impressive 10 metres – producing close to 700 square metres of interior living space.

After eight years of private use, the motor yacht changed hands and entered the charter market, but not without undergoing an extensive interior refit.

Behind the yacht’s remarkable transformation is the Florida design firm Claudette Bonville, who has created a sophisticated and contemporary new look, which exudes casual elegance and phenomenal comfort. 

A sophisticated and contemporary new look, which exudes casual elegance and phenomenal comfort.

A number of original features do remain, however. Bold and colourful, the old interior utilized an abundance of windows, skylights and custom-made glass pieces to bring the look and feel of the ocean inside, and some of these components have been seamlessly blended into the new surrounds.

Still in place in the open-plan main salon is a blown glass chandelier crafted by Scott ‘Chico’ Raskey. Measuring over two metres, the light fixture continues to look over a striking glass dining table. The whole area, however, including the lounge aft, has been updated with handsome zebra wood panels and wide maple floor planks.

In the lounge, two symmetrical seating areas are now formed by cream leather sofas and navy blue armchairs, coordinated with silk striped rugs and crisp linen fabrics. Light and airy, the space is enhanced with original works of art from the likes of Andy Warhol, Joan Miro and Ellsworth Kelly.

Exiting the main salon forward leads to a central lobby, graced by an original Alberto Pinto cabinet. The acclaimed French designer is often cited as a source of inspiration for Victoria del Mar’s interior and similarities can be drawn between yachts such as superyacht ‘Alfa Nero’ and superyacht TV.

From the entryway, all four decks can be reached via an elevator or glass and stainless steel stairway, and a corridor sweeps forward to a well-equipped gymnasium and two VIP suites port and starboard. A mirror image, the two cabins wow with their three-metre high ceilings and skylights.

The four remaining guest suites – consisting of two double cabins and two twin cabins – are located on the lower deck and share cream leather wall panels, embroidered Italian linens and lavish carpets. Likewise, their en-suite bathrooms all boast beautiful custom slump glass countertops and iridescent tiles. 

Meanwhile, the bridge deck hosts the full-beam master suite. Here, the usually open aft area has been enclosed to create an intimate reception area. Perfect for enjoying breakfast too, the terrace boasts large windows that can be slid wide open or removed entirely to create a semi-alfresco set-up.  

Another unique feature of this space is a spiral teak staircase. Surrounded by sliding glass doors that follow the sweep of the stairs, the structure offers added privacy and discreet access.   

Forward of the sleeping quarters is a sky lounge, which can be solely for private use or opened up as a guest area for movie nights and casual gatherings. An oversized powder blue sofa and white bone-trimmed armchairs are joined by a games table and bar topped with petrified wood. Soft mahogany flooring is added to the mix too along with more zebra wood panels.

The lounge is divided from the foyer by large, artistically etched slump glass doors and the deck also offers twin balconies that tuck into both the port and starboard sides of the yacht.

The spacious sundeck, however, is the ultimate alfresco escape. Modern stainless steel and teak furniture provide ample opportunities for lounging, sunning and dining while a spa pool aft is the perfect place to unwind and take in stunning panoramic views.

The spacious sundeck, however, is the ultimate escape.

To provide respite from the sun, sunshade sails can be erected and a bar and alfresco dining table for 18 guests sit under the cover of the soft top. Guests can also enjoy a movie night under the stars thanks to an outdoor cinema setup, involving a double sided 100-inch high-definition screen and a choice of more than 1,000 films.

Sharp and sophisticated with one-of-a-kind features, this yacht is living proof of the transformative power of a refit and is a fine choice for a luxury charter vacation.

For further information on M/Y Victoria del Mar, please speak to your preferred charter broker.