Amid the flurry of exceptional new-build superyachts that entered the charter market in 2014 there were even more that underwent extensive refits, to include remodels, extensions and installations of the industry’s latest innovations.
Chartering or even buying a recently refitted superyacht can often ensure better value for money in terms of facilities and styling compared to the premium paid on a new-build. Charter yachts that have been carefully maintained, rebuilt or converted since their launch can provide a unique combination of original design features with state-of-the-art amenities. Last year an array of fantastic charter yachts underwent improvements, here are some of the most impressive…
MIRAGE
The 53m/174ft MIRAGE was built in 1979 by Feadship and is fantastic example of a motor yacht that has been maintained to the highest standards. Over the last three years she has spent her winters at the STP Shipyard in Palma, Mallorca where she has benefited from an entirely new interior, with all guest and crew areas being completely redesigned. She has also joined the carbon offset programme to ensure she reduces impact on the environment and maximises fuel efficiency while this year sees a new state-of-the-art bridge installed.
DREAM
The success of charter yacht DREAM’s extensive two year refit saw her take home the prize for ‘Best Refit’ at the 2014 International Superyacht Society Awards. She was launched by Abeking & Rasmussen in 2001 with exterior and interior design by the renowned Donald Starkey. During her most recent refit she benefited from a full interior re-design by Bannenberg & Rowell, now boasting a clean, contemporary feel with fine furnishings and well-appointed layout. She also now features a luxurious onboard movie theatre with large comfy sofas and a huge cinema screen.
RHINO
Following her appearance in the first season of Bravo’s ‘Below Deck’, the 47m/154ft Admiral motor yacht RHINO (previously OHANA) was sold and immediately underwent a full interior refit. The styling was completely updated using a modern colour palette and fine furnishings while tasteful paintings of rhinos adorn the walls to reaffirm her new identity. She also now boasts an underwater camera, perfect for watching the beautiful marine life during a Caribbean yacht charter vacation.
ICON
Having already carved out an excellent reputation on the charter market, the 55m/180’ superyacht TURQUOISE’s 2014 refit ensures she remains one of the most luxurious vessels on the global fleet. A notable addition to her new look is with a superb Nikki Beach-style open-air cinema while the sundeck now boasts an al fresco dining table, bar and relocated barbeque. She has been nominated for a 2015 International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2015 (IY&A Awards), the winners of which will be announced during a glamorous ceremony in Venice on the 8th May.
TURQUOISE
Having already carved out an excellent reputation on the charter market, the 55m/180’ superyacht TURQUOISE’s 2014 refit ensures she remains one of the most luxurious vessels on the global fleet. A notable addition to her new look is with a superb Nikki Beach-style open-air cinema while the sundeck now boasts an al fresco dining table, bar and relocated barbeque. She has been nominated for a 2015 International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2015 (IY&A Awards), the winners of which will be announced during a glamorous ceremony in Venice on the 8th May.
BARENTS SEA
On stepping aboard BARENTS SEA during the 2014 Mediterranean Yacht Show, the success of her recently completed refit were immediately apparent. The Yacht Charter Fleet team were familiar with the yacht from her previous life as ‘Panther 2’, an already highly-regarded luxury charter yacht in Greece. Now under new ownership, she has been given a new lease of life through a series of subtle yet hugely effective changes that have improved the layout and styling to appeal to a wide range of tastes.
LADY CHRISTINA
The 62m/204ft superyacht LADY CHRISTINA was launched from Oceanco in 2005 and last year underwent a refit completed by Azure Yacht Design. Her main aft deck was extended to make room for a new Jacuzzi, and integrated sunpads as well as details such as sliding doors leading out to the swim platform and a sea-level gymnasium. In addition to some brand new facilities, the layout was also reconfigured to make full use of the ample space on board. LADY CHRISTINA is available for Mediterranean yacht charters year-round, contact your preferred charter broker for more details.
See full charter details and photo tour of M/Y LADY CHRISTINA.
GALAXY
No expense was spared in the interior refresh of the 56m/184ft Benetti-built charter yacht GALAXY. Perfect for event charters as well as family charter vacations, she accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms including a vast split-level master suite with study, his-and-hers bathrooms and modern, ergonomically-designed chaise lounges set into the window alcoves. A private cinema is accessed via stairs and features a large lounging pad, day beds and fantastic sound equipment while the generous sun deck is the perfect place to party the night away with a Jacuzzi forward and a climate-controlled gym.
SHEMARA
The magnificent 65m/212ft classic superyacht SHEMARA joined the global charter fleet in December 2014 after completing a refit that started in 2011. The results are spectacular and have seen SHEMARA reconfigured, refreshed, and largely rebuilt, retaining her classic charm while boasting an array of innovative new additions to include a Rolls-Royce diesel-electric drive train. This is a shining example of a sympathetic, carefully achieved rebuild that has remained true to her classic charm while offering modern amenities such as a deck plunge pool and elegant dining areas.
ENIGMA XK
Originally built in 1987, the 71.4m/234ft motor yacht ENIGMA XK was re-launched in 2013 as a luxurious, contemporary styled addition to the global charter fleet. She was transformed from her previous life as M/V ‘Norna’ a Scottish Fisheries Protection Agency (SFPA) vessel to a sleek superyacht designed by the world-renowned Philippe Briand. Chic, modern living areas run throughout her interior, contrasting with dark, African woods while enlarged portholes, skylights and panoramic windows allow for an abundance of natural light to create a feeling of space on board.
See full details and photo tour of M/Y ENIGMA XK.
For more information about any of the above mentioned superyachts for charter contact your preferred yacht broker.
More Yacht Information
62m
Oceanco
2005 / 2014
56m
Benetti
2005 / 2022
42m
Mondo Marine
2008 / 2022
53m
Feadship
1979 / 2015
67m
Icon Yachts
2010 / 2020
47m
Admiral Marine Works
1998 / 2024
60m
Abeking & Rasmussen
2001 / 2023
55m
Turquoise Yachts
2011 / 2022
65m
Vosper Thornycroft
1938 / 2014
71m
Richards Shipbuilders
1987 / 2014
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