When is a Luxury Yacht Not a Luxury Yacht?

Such terminology and features are usually associated with luxury charter yachts: privately owned, professionally crewed motor or sailing yachts over 24 metres in length. However, it must be stressed, vessels such as Scenic Eclipse do not fall into this category and are, in fact, mini cruise ships.

In her 114 suites, Scenic Eclipse can accommodate up to 228 passengers. A guest will pay for their own private cabin and balcony, and have to share the vessel’s public spaces with up to 227 other passengers.

Yet, on a luxury yacht, a charter guest will pay to have the whole yacht to themselves. The only people to join them on board will be those they have invited.

All-inclusive meals and complimentary drinks from six different dining facilities are one of the liner’s main selling points. However, this differs to protocol on yacht charters. Before guests begin their vacation they will be asked what foods and beverages they like to ensure a personalised service. Plus, all meals will be tailor-made by the superyacht’s expert chef.  

Although Scenic Eclipse promises to ‘unlock destinations others can only dream of’, the liner will still have to follow strict itineraries and offer structured shore excursions. Whereas on a luxury yacht charter no itinerary is set in stone. Guests will be able to oversee not only the route, but also the daily schedule and trips ashore. This offers an unrivalled amount of freedom and control.

Another highlight of the new liner is its crew to passenger ratio of nearly 1:1. But a luxury yacht charter will generally surpass this by providing more crew members than guests.

Perhaps the size of Scenic Eclipse appeals to those who would like to host a luxury yacht charter for a large number of handpicked guests. If this is the case, there are some extremely impressive superyachts that can accommodate large numbers of guests as well as provide a whole host of upscale amenities.

Take the iconic 99m/325ft superyacht ‘Christina O’, the original ‘jet set’ yacht owned by Aristotle Onassis. One of the largest yachts available on the charter market, the 1943-build is capable of international cruising with 34 guests on board. As well as 17 guest cabins, huge deck spaces and three lounges, she also features an unrivalled level of luxurious amenities such as a spa, fitness centre and Michelin starred head chef.

The 85m/278ft superyacht SOLANDGE, meanwhile, provides a more modern example of fusing size with luxury. Launched by Lurssen in 2013, she offers six extraordinary decks and an incredible volume of 2,899 GT. Highlights include an owner’s suite with a sweeping 180-degree view, a fully-equipped gym, two Jacuzzis, one swimming pool, a large sauna and spa area, and a nine-person elevator.

Those looking to host an event charter may prefer the 82m/270ft superyacht O’MEGA, who is able to accommodate up to 250 guests at dockside events and 70 guests for sit down dinners. With six guest decks, a sophisticated interior and fully-equipped business centre, she fits in perfectly at glamorous ports such as Monaco and Cannes, and is also ideal for corporate charters.

If discovery is what you’re after, however, the 77m/253ft expedition yacht LEGEND can offer adventure with all the luxuries expected from a world-class superyacht. Built in 2016 as a fully classified Class 1 ice-breaking ship, she charters in the Artic and Antarctica.

Distinguishing assets include a commercially certified helipad, a submarine and snow scooters, a dedicated spa centre and a swimming pool. Plus, in addition to sleeping up to 26 guests and 19 crew, she can accommodate an expedition crew of 10.

Indeed, a luxury yacht charter offers all the amenities, class and adventure of a mini cruise ship on a much grander, luxurious and more personalised style.

If you are interested in chartering any of the luxury yachts mentioned above, please contact your preferred charter broker.