There’s no break quite so relaxing as one aboard a superyacht. From being rocked awake in the morning, to dining under the stars at night, the experience of sailing a vessel of your own anywhere from the fjords of Norway to the Greek islands.
But how do you make the most of your time at sea? The perfect day aboard your superyacht is dependent on weather, sailing conditions and, most importantly, company – but there are steps you can take to make your trip the best it can be. So anchors up, gentlemen, and come sail away.
When the day dawns, the world will seem like your oyster. But, neglect to plan and you’ll end up whiling the day away bobbing around aimlessly – which is its own brand of charming. However, to make the most of your adventure, get going and embark on some experiences to remember.
Using a service such as Ocean Independence’s My First Superyacht, you will be in safe hands whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the yachting game. With captain, chef and stewards on hand day and night, your crew will orchestrate every detail, from the navigation to throwing themed cocktail parties and arranging watersport excursions.
So, even before breakfast, take the time to brief your crew for the day on what you want to do, your preferences for the day, and they will do their utmost to accommodate you. Next up, time to eat. If you’re docked, why not explore the local town for delicacies, either eating out or bringing market-buys back to your superyacht for the chef to prepare for you. This will immerse you in the local culture, whilst still allowing you to enjoy the luxury of your vessel.
Many superyacht guests look forward to trying the plethora of high speed watersports and personal watercraft, such as waverunners and jetskis, which will inevitably be available on board. But others relax in different ways. It’s also important to check that you have the appropriate licenses and meet with local operating regulations if you want to start tearing up the surf, but your crew will help with this.
A chilled drink and lounging on the sundeck is a surefire way to wind down, and there’s nothing like a good book whilst soaking up some rays. But, if you can’t sit still, delve into the selection of toys stocked on your yacht – from sailing dinghies, kayaks and inflatable slides, to snorkelling gear, jet skis and fully-submersible submarines or remote-controlled boats. Additionally, the entertainment centres on superyachts tend to be second-to-none, so relaxing indoors is always a welcoming option.
However, we’d recommend you be more active. That way, you’ll make more memories, and will work up an appetite for the sunniest meal of the day…
Like breakfast, it’s always a good ideal to dip into local cuisine here. Perhaps ask your crew to explore the town and local markets whilst you’re whiling away your morning, and they can ask on shore what the townsfolk would recommend.
When it comes to eating, make the most of your superyacht, and sit outside. But remember to hoist up an awning to protect yourself from the sun. As much as you may be enjoying it, constant exposure could affect you detrimentally – and cut your enjoyment short.
While it’s tempting to pack in as many locations and activities as possible on your charter, to enjoy the yachting lifestyle and all your yacht has to offer, we’d suggest a maximum of six hours cruising per day – otherwise you won’t be able to enjoy the toys, tenders and your incredible surroundings.
However, one of the best things about chartering a superyacht is that your captain will adapt your itinerary to ensure you get the maximum enjoyment from your charter. So, if you’re reluctant to leave a particular beach or bay, tell your captain, and he will arrange for you to stay.
If you’re happy to move on, and spend the day cruising, make sure you spend much of your time out on deck. There’s nothing like the feeling of wind in your hair as your own superyacht cuts through the water, taking you to your next adventure.
We’d argue that, aboard a superyacht, dinner is the most important meal of the day. Enjoyed aboard, with the twinkling lights of a nearby harbour town or stars above keeping you company, nothing feels quite so exclusive as being served in the balmy evening on your outdoor dining deck.
And, whilst you’ve decided to submerge yourself in the local culture for other meals, this time your chef should take the lead, and will deliver an exquisite menu – all the time still following your tastes and dietary needs. A glass or two of champagne will make this a dinner to remember – be it a five-course tasting menu or barbecue – and is the perfect segue into that delectable evening cigar.
Down a digestif to finish the evening, and then spend the rest of your day lounging, perhaps watching the sun set over the water or getting back to that book, and finally retiring to your luxury cabin for another restful night – before another perfect day.
Learn more about My First Superyacht here
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