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LIFESTYLE • PERSONALITIES • REAL ESTATE
YACHTING POWERED BY ENGEL & VÖLKERS
LEGEND
Pure Adventure: A Soviet Icebreaker Turned Explorer Yacht
ANTARCTICA
How and When to Explore the Earth’s Southernmost Continent & the South Pole
INTO THE WILD 10 Expert Tips from Captain Fraser Gow to Enjoy Antarctica
Explore!
DISCOVER THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SAILING AND MOTOR YACHTS
YACHTING
LEGENDARY The very first two hulls of the German Frers– designed ‘Swan 78 Kinina’ were launched last summer. Frers set out to design a bluewater cruiser that would seem much larger than the 78 ft length would suggest. The beamy, powerful hull with its telescopic keel can cross oceans, while the keel can be lifted for shallowdraft ports or island anchorages (Nautor).
NEWS
SHINY & SPHERICAL Tom Dixon’s pendant lights never fail to make a statement. ‘Mirror Ball’, with its round perfection, is like an astronaut’s helmet. Spaced out!
ALL IN ONE ‘Mappamondo’ by m2kr combines a bench, containers for storage and a standing lamp that serves as a coat hanger.
OUT OF THE ORDINARY Every
smartphone looks like a tiny tablet. With ‘Alo’, Philippe Starck shuns the usual touchscreen, and instead projects 3D holographic images of messages, movies, or anything else the user might want to view (Thomson).
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By Land & By Sea It’s a world of discovery out there. These fine designs, unique vessels and high-tech gadgets have all terrains covered.
500 PAGES OF ZEITGEIST This style bible is always the first point of reference: Andrew Martin, Interior Design Review Vol. 22 (teNeues).
Stylebound! Wave goodbye to bad hair days with the ‘Hair Pieces’ by designer Saskia Diez. This model called ‘Bold’ combines brass and 18-carat gold or sterling silver plating with a black textile band.
COUTURE TO GO Jean Paul Gaultier has designed a unique pin-striped luggage range for Lipault. The limited edition collections ‘Travel’ and ‘Leather’ include trolleys, weekend bags and shopping bags. All unisex, of course.
TEXT: UTA ABENDROTH
REALLY HOT ‘Solar Egg’ by Mats Bigert and Lars Bergström is a sauna, composed of 69 golden plates. Designed for contemplation, it is travelling Europe (Riksbyggen).
YACHTING WELCOME
Dear Reader, ow do you define an outstanding brand? For us, it is the experience that brings meaning and value to life for the client. Just like yachting, a brand is based around the emotions evoked through shared experiences. In 2018, the Engel & Völkers Group celebrated its 40th anniversary of being a leader in the luxury sector. For the Yachting division, as part of our brand heritage, we are committed to delivering the same excellent standard of service that has come to be expected of Engel & Völkers. In this edition we seek to explore. The experience of venturing off to remote and undiscovered destinations is an aspiration much voiced by our clients. Today’s charterers are looking for more than 7-star luxury holidays. They want to be immersed in a different culture and discover brand new parts of the world, without having to forgo the comforts that come with chartering a superyacht. Charter requests for Asian and Indian Pacific destinations have risen over the winter season, and we believe this trend is only set to increase. Along with an upsurge in charters to Northern Europe and even Antarctica, where clients can find a whole different itinerary of activities and sights to see. In our charter itinerary we take you on a journey to Antarctica, for the ultimate expedition experience. Antarctica may be the most challenging destination to explore, but it also offers the most incredible experience. Find yourself surrounded by the surreal quiet of the land, with intense star-filled night skies and the chance to see some of the most beautiful wildlife in its natural habitat – including polar bears, walruses, and penguins. In our Yachting Advice column on the last page, Fraser Gow, captain of the 55-metre explorer yacht Gene Machine, shares his insights into how to make the very most of your exploration experience. His time on board an explorer vessel is a valuable read for anyone looking to embark on such a once-in-a-lifetime trip. We hope you enjoy this yachting edition all about expedition yacht charters, and find inspiration for your
PHOTO: CARIN VERBRUGGEN
next holiday with Engel & Völkers Yachting. Sincerely,
Anissa Mediouni
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Few yachts are capable of exploring Antarctica in true style. Legend often visits some of the most dramatic scenery on earth.
ANTARCTIC ADVENTURER The 77-metre MY Legend is a superyacht for all seasons. Once a Soviet icebreaker, she was converted to a luxury explorer in 2015 and is now in the vanguard of expedition yachts, plying the world’s most remote and dramatic waters in exceptional comfort and style. On board she has a spa, sauna, beauty salon and a gym with a view, and for the adventurous she deploys the ultimate toys – a helicopter and a three-man submersible. T EXT: James Henderson
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Into the deep: Legend’s submersible can venture down up to 300 metres to explore the natural wonders of Antarctica’s icy depths.
“Legend is an incredible platform from which to explore, with a sub to venture below the surface and a helicopter for above.� BEN LYONS
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“Legend is solid, stable and rugged, but in 2015 Verkerk Yachting Projects wove luxury into her adventurous DNA.” RENE COUPERUS
Clockwise from top: Legend’s library, with a compass floor in marble; ‘Paris’, the 63 m2 master suite, with sitting area and his and hers bathrooms; Legend travels in comfort to places other ships would not survive; the Piano Lounge with a games area, fireplace and a self-playing grand piano; the wildlife in the regions that Legend can visit is extraordinary and unfazed by visitors; as a former icebreaker, this vessel has a rugged appearance suited to the raw and dramatic polar terrain she visits.
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arely is a yacht so suited to her name. However, if Legend’s structure is one of extreme practicality, Legend is wreathed in romance, a waninside she is styled for exceptional comfort, enabling customers dering knight that travels boldly to the to travel in unexpected style. Legend has 13 en suite guest cabfarthest reaches of the planet on the ins, including a master suite and two VIP suites, each of which quest for adventure. Once a Cold Waris decorated in the character of the world’s great cities – Paris for rior, Legend is now the vanguard of exthe master suite, spanning some 63 m2, complete with a sitting pedition yachts, plying a leisurely and area and two en suites; London has English country scenes; Amluxurious circuit, offering explorasterdam is adorned with Dutch paintings and its bathroom dection and adventure, in comfort, in the orated with original Delft tiles. In addition to her Russian paintworld’s coldest, most dramatic regions. ings, Moscow retains a desk from the original ship. Besides the captain and mate, many of the crew are drawn from She is exceptionally well suited to the job. Stable and strong, resilient in all weathers, she has a helicopter to take you skiing the hospitality industry in order to create the experience of a bouand a submersible to explore sub-surface, plus snowmobiles and tique hotel. Legend has a spa and sauna, a beauty salon, a gym luxury launches for ice-bound safaris. Crucially she has cabins and a 14-seat cinema to see recordings of the day’s adventures. for 26 guests, allowing her to take larger families and groups She even has a whisky bar and cigar room. The library boasts a than other superyachts (interestingly she offers some weeks by marble floor and there is even a piano lounge. If no guest wants the cabin as well as exclusive charter). There are 19 crew for the to tinkle the ivories, it will play itself. Of course, in cold climes, yacht itself and space for anpassengers spend a lot of other 10 staff for any ongoing time indoors, but Legend’s aft boat deck saloon, swathed expedition – ice pilot, doctor, expedition leaders and natuin glass, draws the raw, draralists, everyone you need to matic scenery into full view. help you get the most out of And to get even closer to the these little-explored regions. icebergs and snow-capped Legend’s range is an excepmountains, there is an ontional 7,000 miles, but this in deck Jacuzzi, for 16. turn means she must carry or all the onboard comso much more. Visiting Antfort, nowadays we hear arctica is a huge and detailed that true luxury in travlogistical operation – it’s not el lies in experiences: Legend as if you can pop round to the outstrips them all in explorashops for resupply. She was tion and adventure. Ben Lyons of Eyos, Legend’s expedilaunched in 1974 as a Class tion provider (which arranges 1 Icebreaker (not simply Ice Class) and worked as a tug in their expedition leaders and the frozen northern wastes guides to plan the off-ship of the Soviet Union. After activities), is in no doubt of Legend deploys to Antarctica over the southern summer and the end of the Cold War, she what she is capable: to Greenland, Baffin Island and the northern reaches of Norway in the northern summer. She works principally on private was eventually sold in 1999. “Legend is an incredible charter, but on some chosen weeks she offers trips by the cabin. As swords were beaten into platform from which to exploughshares, so she underplore these locations, in all went a refit to leisure in 2003. Then in 2014, Verkerk Yachting Prodirections. She has a sub to observe below the surface and a heljects wove luxury into her adventurous DNA. The refit took place icopter to explore mountains above, and the robust hull from her at Icon Yachts in the Netherlands, overseen by Rene Couperus: former life means she can venture further into the ice. She spent “Legend’s owner anticipated everything he wanted to do New Year 2019 in 9/10ths pack ice south of the Lemaire Channel. with the yacht and had planned it all in detail. For instance, No other luxury boat can do that.” we installed a very sophisticated fuel storage system that These are incredible opportunities. Legend’s submersible could contain a huge amount of helicopter fuel, 7,000 to 8,000 can take you down to as deep as 300 metres to see Antarctilitres. The ship needs this if it is travelling to such remote arca’s denizens – pods of orcas and huge octopi – while her heleas with 26 passengers.” icopter can whisk you up a mountain to ski slopes never visitt was a near-complete rebuild; a heli-deck had to be constructed before. Perhaps you want to reach out to touch an iceberg, or take lunch on a snowbound outcrop watching the tail-flukes ed at the rear and the foredeck was converted to stow the snowof diving whales. The wildlife in these regions is fearless and mobiles, the 3-man submersible and helicopter blades. Finalunconcerned by your presence: sea lions simply eye you quizly, her functional, rounded stern was reworked and a swimming zically from their perch on an ice floe. platform added instead, increasing her length to 77.4 metres. Legend follows the polar summers, so she is in Antarctica early “She’s a very solid ship, and very stable, with thick plating and on in the year and then heads north to Disko Bay off Greenland, thick frames. The owner decided on a more rugged look, so we used different materials on her: she caused quite a stir at the time Baffin Island or the Baltic. The scenery and the colours change, and she has been imitated since. She is not highly polished, so she of course, and the animals too – penguins are replaced by polar doesn’t look as shiny as the other yachts in Monaco. But of course bears, seals by walruses and narwhals. But Legend herself? She you don’t want a shiny hull if you’re an icebreaker.” serenely continues her quest for adventure.
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PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER SCHOLEY
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YACHTING DESTINATIONS
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SOUTH POLE
USHUAIA
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Amazing Antarctica
Icy cold, isolated calm, and dazzling displays of light and colour: It is impossible for anyone visiting Antarctica to be left cold. Those fortunate enough to make it here will invariably sense the mighty force of the elements and the up-close beauty of the indigenous wildlife. ge
SOUTH GEORGIA
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SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS
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Lemaire C ha nn el 8
BROWN BLUFF
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VERNADSKY RESEARCH BASE
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OUR TOP TIPS SMALL WONDERS
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Ushuaia & Drake Passage THROUGH WIND & WAVES
Ushuaia, on the southernmost tip of Argentina, is the point of departure for most Antarctic expeditions. Traversing the infamous Drake Passage can be turbulent. Good food and interesting talks mean there is no time for boredom during the two days at sea. Those who suffer from seasickness have a reward at the end of it all: “Crossing the Drake Passage is the price of entry for going to the Antarctic”, is a favourite saying of expedition leaders.
South Georgia
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to opportunity. Things take a lively turn on the beach, at the polar plunge: Jumping into the icy Antarctic waters is a popular dare for travellers. 6
Neko Harbour/Paradise Bay FIRST KAYAK, THEN CAMPING
Ice-encrusted peaks, mighty glaciers, and vast expanses of snow form the panorama to accompany an expedition by kayak. It’s perhaps the most intimate way to succumb to the magic of Antarctica: Utter silence and timelessness right up until you head back on board. Explorers then spend the night in biwak sleeping bags under the starry sky. They might wake with cold feet, but with a warm feeling inside.
THE SERENGETI OF THE POLAR REGION
There are plenty of good reasons to head towards South Georgia en route to Antarctica. Inhabited by only a few people all year round, this inhospitable and rugged outpost of Great Britain offers some incredible natural spectacles: Its beaches are the breeding ground for tens of thousands of King Penguins, while heavyweight elephant seals battle it out for mates, with the Wandering Albatros, the largest bird in the world, hovering up in the skies above it all. 3
Brown Bluff
WADDLING & HOOTING
TEXT: HANS OBERLÄNDER ; ILLUSTRATION: MADALYN FARLEY/JANINE WEITENAUER - CREATIVE MINDS
Thought Antarctica was nothing but snow and ice? Think again! Jutting up out of the mist, Brown Bluff is a steep wall of reddish-brown volcanic tuff, forming a flat-topped ‘Tuya’ that’s around a million years old. Inflatable boats bring travellers for a tête-à-tête with the button-eyed Adélie and Gentoo Penguins. These local residents aren’t phased, continuing their waddling and hooting, cleaning and preening. It’s a routine that hasn’t changed in millennia.
Half Moon Island
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TRAIL THROUGH PENGUIN PARADISE
Shaped like a half moon, this island 120 kilometres off the Antarctic mainland is a popular stop-off point and deservedly so. To the south, a 2,000 m hiking trail reveals an animal kingdom that includes colonies of chinstrap penguins against the incredible mountain backdrop of the surrounding islands, and humpback whales casually coming up for air. Photography enthusiasts will be in their element! 5
Deception Island
ICE-COLD TEST OF COURAGE
Nothing deceiving here: This island is in fact the crater rim of an active volcano. The last time it erupted, in 1969, it destroyed two research bases. The world’s most southerly whaling station was in operation here, in Whaler’s Bay, from 1910 to 1931. Its ghostly ruins now make for a fascinating pho-
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Lemaire Channel
HIGHLIGHT OF HIGHLIGHTS
6 km in length, 720 m wide at its narrowest point, and surrounded by towering 1,000 m high glaciers: The passage through this slender stretch of water is a photographer’s dream even by Antarctic standards – especially when the sun is shining and the blue ocean becomes a mirror for the glaciers and clouds. 8
Vernadsky Research Base VODKA ON ICE
Of course, serious work is carried out by day at the Ukrainian Vernadsky Research Base, including the monitoring of the Ozone Layer. The scientists are also proud though of laying claim to the “southernmost bar in the world”. Furnished inside just like a traditional English pub, it was originally built by the former British occupation. The speciality on the drinks menu? Home-made vodka. 9
Stonington Island
BEYOND THE MAGICAL FRONTIER
For many expeditions to this region, the Antarctic Circle is the most southerly point before turning back, but some vessels venture even further south. Stonington Island is the end of the road for them too though: Those who venture a few hundred metres up the glacier will see the ship down below and the occasional landslide of ice crashing down into the sea. High time to turn back! 10
South Pole
PHOTO OP AT 90° SOUTH
Crazy idea or the ultimate adventure? It’s now possible for anyone to visit the South Pole. That said, the costs involved are not to be underestimated. The trip begins by plane, embarking from a base camp via Antarctica. Then it’s on to Ceremonial South Pole, the southernmost point on earth, then a brief detour to the Amundsen-Scott Station, before setting off on the return journey back to civilization.
From luxury yachts with every conceivable amenity to converted former expedition boats with rustic charm: the type of vessel you choose to travel on is a matter of personal taste. Due to the fact though that a maximum of 100 people are allowed on land in a particular place at one time, it is recommended opting for a smaller yacht. The fewer passengers and crew, the more time there will be for individual trips ashore and tours with the inflatable boats. ANTARCTIC SUMMER Cruise ships tend to organise tours between November and March. The main season is from December to February though when the penguin females are busy incubating their eggs, the chicks are newly hatched or almost fully grown. March is the time of year when the whales really come out to play. SUN PROTECTION 50+ Depending on your exact latitude, the sun can shine here up to 24 hours a day. The UV rays are intense, so applying sunscreen with a very high SPF is essential. With temperatures on the Antarctic Peninsula of approx. 0°C to +5°C, wearing layer upon layer of winter clothing is recommended. Specialist attire required for excursions is almost always provided. EVEN MORE ADVENTURE For those not content with the standard extremes of Antarctica, there is always the option of going even more extreme – although this isn’t for the faint-hearted: THE EXHILIRATION OF MOUNT VINSON There are no vessels that can take you to Mount Vinson, the highest point in Antarctica at 4,892 metres above sea level. For experienced mountaineers in peak condition, specialist operators offer 14-day expeditions – weather permitting. PERFECT SKIING IN PRISTINE SNOW Downhill runs on skis or a snowboard, traversing virgin slopes, or ski trekking in the footsteps of the polar explorer Ernest Shackleton: Daredevils and well-trained mountaineers will find a veritable pleasure playground here in Antarctica, all without a ski lift in sight. Everyone else can rest assured: hiking on snowshoes is equally enjoyable. DIVING SAFARIS DEEP BENEATH THE ICE A rich diversity of marine life, crystal-clear waters and shimmering icebergs offer spectacles to trained divers like nowhere else on earth. Divers embark from inflatables, and reach depths of up to 20 metres below the surface.
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Voyages of a Lifetime Hanse Explorer is one of the top explorer yachts on the charter market today – equipped with the capabilities to cruise through both tropical and polar waters. She is perfectly suited for a diverse range of expeditions, with an expert crew ready to welcome guests aboard and embark on a truly unforgettable adventure. PHOTO: EYOS Expeditions/Rob McCallum
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While on board Hanse Explorer, there is a host of activities on offer that is sure to delight literally anyone. The dedicated crew can always organise a day of activities and suggest excursions – including a day spent cruising and wildlife watching, glacier walks with a group of friends, or endless fun on snowmobiles.
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elcome to Hanse Explorer, needs of expedition clients, whether they are large families, big where the philosophy is an groups or a venturesome couple enjoying a romantic escape. ‘open ship’ concept that enIn the winter season, Hanse Explorer can be found cruising courages guests to explore through South American or Antarctic waters. In the summer, her typical destinations are Norway and Arctic destinations all areas on board without such as Svalbard, Greenland and the Canadian Arctic. If you restrictions. Those seeking extraordinary adventures have have chosen to take Hanse Explorer on a tropical adventure, the first favourite of guests is to have the captain drop anchor in a found their match with this remarkably seaworthy 48-metre lovely bay. Enjoy an afternoon swimming and diving through explorer vessel. Considered to be stunning coral reefs and schools of friendly fish. For those who are a little more adventurous, she carries two Mark-IV Zodione of the true expedition yachts available for charter, Hanse acs for landing on secluded Pacific beaches and discovering Explorer ventures into both tropical and polar waters depending on the season in which you wish to charter her. remote private islands. Hanse Explorer was designed to ensure her guests never miss a End the evening dining al fresco under the stars with fresh moment – whether they are relaxing on board or enjoying the day ingredients sourced from your local surroundings, prepared surrounded by glimmering to perfection by the onpearl-white icebergs, crysboard chef. After dinner, tal-clear waters and splashindulge in a night-cap in es of pure turquoise hues all the lounge with panoramaround that perfectly blend ic views of the starlit skies all the magic together. She bouncing off the gentle is ideal for a wide variety of waves and creating a mirexpedition routes, even venror of dim light. turing south of the Antarcanse Explorer is also tic Circle, to the High Arcequipped to take tic and to many other exotic you further north, including to the Arctic redestinations in between. Her state-of-the-art navigions. For your first day, gation equipment, approx. after a delicious and fil9,000 nm cruising range, ling breakfast, head up and the capacity to proto the bridge and watch duce 20 tons of fresh wathe captain navigate the ter on board every day all vessel through the incredible views of toweenable her long-range exploration capabilities. The ring icebergs above and builder of Hanse Explorer, crashing ice below. Her the Fassmer shipyard, spepowerful engine allows cialises in sophisticated her to break through rescue boats, research vesdense sea ice with ease, sels and patrol boats, all of along with her steel which have to be incredibly hull that has the highreliable. “Given safety has est commercial Ice Class always been very important rating (Finnish Ice Class to my father it seemed the A1 / Germanischer Lloyd The Fassmer shipyard, which built Hanse Explorer, is specialised in Ice Class E3). perfect fit,” says Imke Harhigh-end sophisticated rescue boats, research vessels, and patrol ren, daughter to the owner Spend days cruising boats. They have to be incredibly reliable. “Given safety has always and the vessel’s commeralong while spotting wildbeen very important to my father it seemed the perfect fit,” said Imke cial manager. life like seals and whales, Harren, daughter to the owner and the vessel’s commercial manager. anse Explorer can acor landing at penguin colocommodate up to 12 adventurous guests, always with nies. Make a list of activities you would like to do while on board that only the Arctic regions can offer, including climbing snow-clad maximum comfort in mind. She has an expansive aft deck, a spacious saloon and an adjoining dining room that feahills and sea kayaking. Fishing, kite surfing or paddle boarding are tures large windows. All in combination, guests experience an also available options. Before calling it a day, take out the Zodiacs extension of the phenomenal views while indoors here. Her proand cruise underneath frozen gateways with a small group for the fessional crew are worthy of unconditional trust and confidence, perfect photo op. After a long adrenaline-filled day, take advantage as they are highly experienced and understand the unique of the Finnish sauna on the lower deck and simply relax.
PHOTOS: REEVE JOLLIFFE, EYOS EXPEDITIONS, HANSE EXPLORER
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BUILDER FASSMER CRUISING REGION WINTER/SUMMER SOUTH AMERICA & ANTARCTICA/NORWAY & THE ARCTIC LENGTH APPROX. 47.75 m BEAM APPROX. 10.4 m CABINS 7 CRUISING SPEED 10 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE LOW/HIGH EUR 125,000/145,000 E&V ID Y-02EQO9 CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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Recently refitted with the latest technologies, sumptuous comfort and amenities including a gym, guests are treated to the best of all worlds on board Sherakhan.
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Majestic Sherakhan
First launched in 1966 by Vuyk in the Netherlands with the name Prinses Margriet, she remains one of the most chartered superyachts on the market – with the capability to be taken on adventures around the world.
PHOTOS: CHRISTOPHER SCHOLEY
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herakhan can accommodate up to 26 passengers in 13 suites, each with its own unique literary theme. Whether you’re a romantic, a realist or enjoy witty humour, there is a room on board to match all tastes. Be it the Ernest Hemingway master suite, the Émile Zola VIP suite, or double and twin suites that include the Lev Tolstoy, Jane Austen, and Guy de Maupassant, where first edition works of the famous authors can be found. Each suite is equipped with its own entertainment system including a flatscreen TV, WiFi, and iPod station. Different music can be played in each room, allowing guests to further personalise their experience while in their cabins. This is all thanks to her entirely new AV, Internet and communications systems, which were installed with her refit. The cabins also offer a minibar, safe, desk, walk-in closet, and en suite bathrooms with jetted tubs, marble tile flooring, dual vanities, separate showers, WCs, and bidets. Sherakhan has a multi-talented crew of 24 – including an executive chef, sous chef, masseuse, manicurist, full-time physician, hairdresser, and yoga instructor. The highly experienced, focused, yet easy-going crew understands that each charter group is unique and can tailor a special itinerary
or suggest one already in place. For the winter charter, Sherakhan takes guests through the Caribbean, visiting the British Virgin Islands with stops in Antigua, Virgin Gorda, and Little Dix Bay. During spring time, exciting plans to navigate around Panama, Costa Rica, Ecuador or Golfo de Cortes in Mexico are in sight. The South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula tour is envisaged for more intrepid groups who like to venture off the beaten path. Expeditions hold countless opportunities to visit historical sites, snorkel, and see amazing wildlife en route. After a long day of fun excursions, guests can head to the ‘Spa de la Sirene’ to enjoy a Finnish sauna or one of many treatments provided by Sherakhan’s experienced massage therapists. For the summer season, the Cook Islands, Hawaii and the South Pacific Ocean are cherished destinations. Fun is guaranteed, with a range of water toys including jet skis, an 8 m inflatable slide, wakeboards, surfboards, waverunners, and a Dutch slope. A family movie in the onboard theatre is a perfect way to unwind, before heading to dinner where the chef can tailor the menu precisely to your liking. Memorable evenings can end in the 18-person Jacuzzi enjoying a drink mixed by the bartender.
BUILDER VUYK EN ZONEN CRUISING REGION WINTER/SUMMER CENTRAL CARIBBEAN SEA, CENTRAL AMERICA, MEXICO & SOUTH AMERICA/WESTERN & EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN, AMERICA & ANTARCTIC LENGTH APPROX. 69.65 m BEAM APPROX. 12 m CABINS 13 CRUISING SPEED 11 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE FROM EUR 425,000 E&V ID Y-02EQNN CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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ICON of the Seas
Designed by Redman Whiteley Dixon, the luxury superyacht ICON was delivered in 2010 as the first vessel from the Dutch shipyard Icon Yachts. And what an incredible debut she is.
ICON is designed in every detail to give her guests the ultimate feeling of luxury, comfort and relaxation on board. Perhaps her most remarkable feature is the 5 m infinity swimming pool together with a retractable beach club offering outstanding amenities such as a bar, sumptuous sun loungers, a television screen, and a hammam.
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ow a 68-metre superyacht after a comprehensive refit in 2014 that saw the addition of five metres to her length, ICON presides over superb features including an infinity pool, a sauna, and a gym. Studio Linse is behind her elegant and contemporary interior design. She can accommodate up to 12 guests in seven cabins, which include a split-level master suite, three VIP suites, two twins and a convertible twin that also converts to a private cinema. Each cabin boasts an entertainment system and en suite bathroom. The main saloon is vast, with comfortable seating and a formal dining area for 12 guests. During the winter, ICON can be found cruising the Indian Ocean. She makes for the perfect romantic getaway in the Seychelles, enjoying the tranquillity this area has to offer. During the day, drop anchor and head to one of the many beautiful beaches by tender, indulge in a swim in the warm crystal-clear waters, walk on the pure-white soft sandy
beaches, and appreciate the view of your superyacht swaying in the calm sea in front of you. Those looking for more active pursuits can take out one of the many water toys and let loose with an afternoon of fun. In the evening, guests can have their favourite dish prepared by the chef, and dine in style whilst watching the sun go down. During the summer, ICON can be chartered in the Mediterranean, particularly around Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica. Anyone in the mood for authentic restaurants, dream-like beaches, coastal towns and a thriving nightlife should begin their charter holiday on Sardinia. During the day, guests can head ashore to enjoy the beaches on the Costa Esmeralda, and experience the exquisite Italian cuisine followed by a drink in one of the trendy bars or nightclubs. Then set course for Corsica to wind down from the vibrant Sardinian lifestyle and explore the island’s hilltop villages, hikes along the coastline, and the local delights and delicacies.
BUILDER ICON YACHTS CRUISING REGION SUMMER/WINTER MEDITERRANEAN & INDIAN OCEAN LENGTH APPROX. 67.5 m BEAM APPROX. 11.4 m CABINS 7 CRUISING SPEED 13 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE FROM EUR 500,000 E&V ID Y-02D8CN CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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Glorious Aresteas
One of the finest examples on the world’s seas of a luxury motorsailer, Aresteas combines the timeless elegance of sailing with the generous volume and capabilities of a motor yacht.
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With an overall length of 51 metres, Aresteas provides levels of comfort and facilities normally only found on larger motor vessels. She boasts the ultimate space for stylish indoor and outdoor living, enhanced by state-of-the-art entertainment.
PHOTOS: SEBASTIEN ARSI
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er spacious main deck salon is a dream to behold, with stylish interiors envisaged by Italian designer Aldo Viani, complete with comfortable seating areas and a bar ready with a welcome drink. The earthy colour tones that flow throughout the yacht, accompanied by natural materials such as leather, treated wood and marble, allow her guests to feel at home while in such luxurious surroundings. Outdoors, her fantastic sundeck and aft upper deck are perfectly set up for ‘at sea’ entertaining and offer many alternatives for al fresco dining and lounging. Aresteas can accommodate up to 12 guests in six vast staterooms, including a master suite, two VIP suites, two twin and one double cabin, all with en suite bathrooms. Due to her spacious living areas and extra features including a fitness room, spa area, glass-bottom Jacuzzi and home cinema, guests live as comfortably on board as they would in any luxurious villa ashore. She is the latest yacht to join our charter fleet and will sail her first season on the charter market this summer, cruising mainly in the Eastern Mediterranean. Begin your charter holiday in Turkey, heading aboard in vibrant Bodrum. Ask your chef to prepare
your favourite meal and have lunch on deck. Afterwards, you could head into the city, wander through the maze of ancient streets and soak up the atmosphere. The perfect end to your first day might be enjoying a relaxed night on board, watching a movie in the cinema room. Awake fully rested and ready to set sail for Marmaris, where you can relax and go for a swim on one of the nearby beaches or spend the day on board enjoying the Jacuzzi or sunbathing on the top deck. Anchored in the harbour of Marmaris in the evening, you might feel inclined to go ashore and have dinner in one of the many gourmet restaurants that this city has to offer. Perhaps followed by a drink in one of the lively bars, before returning to your yacht for a sumptuous night’s sleep. The trip continues on to Gemiler Island with its breathtaking views of turquoise seas and green-forested hillsides. You might want to ask your captain to take out the tender and explore the island and its surroundings. Then end the day sipping cocktails by the bar on board, whilst watching the glorious sunset with your loved ones. Finally, end your trip in Gocek, enjoying a last breakfast on board admiring the city’s beautiful coastline.
BUILDER ARESTEAS YACHTS CRUISING REGION SUMMER/WINTER FRANCE, ITALY & TURKEY LENGTH APPROX. 51 m BEAM APPROX. 10.28 m CABINS 6 CRUISING SPEED 12 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE FROM EUR 150,000 E&V ID Y-02EL91 CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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SOLO’s spacious main and upper salons have an inviting ambience with large seating areas. In addition to the numerous entertainment options including sophisticated sound systems and even a dance floor, the upper salon also features a grand piano ready to be played by musically talented guests on board.
Superyacht SOLO
This magnificent vessel boasts 72 metres of unrivalled luxury. Conceived by the celebrated Italian designer Francesco Paszkowski, his interior is contemporary with a timeless air.
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PHOTOS: BLUEIPROD
er truly impressive leisure and entertainment facilities make SOLO the ideal charter yacht for socialising and relaxing with family and friends. She can accommodate up to 12 guests in six striking staterooms. Featuring all-round glass windows, the spacious master suite offers guests breathtaking 180° views of their destination while lying in the king-size bed, as well as a private terrace complete with sun pads and a Jacuzzi. Her remaining staterooms include a large VIP room, two doubles and two twins – all of which convey the same exquisite standard of comfort and luxury. During the winter season, SOLO can be found cruising around exotic destinations such as the Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands, and even Cuba. In the summer, her sleek silhouette can usually be spotted exploring the scenic coastal towns of Italy, the South of France, Spain, Croatia, Greece and Turkey. One superb way to begin a charter holiday is to enjoy all the exclusive amenities
SOLO has to offer. Ask your captain to drop anchor at a beautiful spot of your choice and enjoy the 360° views from the sundeck. While lounging and getting a tan on the sun pads and sofas, you can always cool off with a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or some action in the sea with one of the water toys. After enjoying a few days of relaxation, your party will be ready to head on to one of the beautiful Mediterranean ports where you can go ashore and spend a few days shopping, strolling through picturesque cities and exploring ancient coastal towns. Enjoy the exquisite restaurants that can be found ashore or let your chef prepare a delicious dinner for you to enjoy on deck. Afterwards, if you are still in the mood for a little fun, the touch-and-go helipad can be converted into a private dance floor where you and your guests can dance the night away in style. Before you end your charter holiday, be sure to enjoy the yacht’s beach club facilities, which are ideal for unwinding.
BUILDER FASSMER CRUISING REGION SUMMER SOUTH AMERICA & ANTARCTICA LENGTH APPROX. 72 m BEAM APPROX. 10.4 m CABINS 6 CRUISING SPEED 11 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE EUR 125,000 E&V ID Y-02EQID CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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Fabulous VivieRae
Spacious and special in every respect, this expedition yacht is designed and built to handle all the world’s oceans from the tropics to high latitudes with the utmost comfort, style and safety.
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“We had the opportunity to get creative with lighting and glass. We used LED strip cove lights to set into the walls and floors, as well as adding glass steps on the stairs and using as many mirror and other reflective surfaces to bounce the light around the room.” Destry Pethtel from Destry Darr Designs
PHOTOS: DOUGLAS HARLOW
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arefully conceived in every elegant detail, VivieRae offers divine interiors and the highest levels of luxury, along with a consummate layout that makes her feel far more spacious than her approx. 30-metre length would lead you to believe. She was built for economic long-distance cruising, with an excellent standard of comfort in mind. Guests receive a warm welcome on board from her full-time professional crew who are experts at creating a truly memorable trip for all those lucky enough to experience her. She can accommodate up to eight guests in four en suite cabins, including a full-beam master suite, two king staterooms that can be converted into twins, and a queen stateroom. The skylounge can also be converted into a queen stateroom with its own en suite. She was built with the utmost attention to detail, with many custom features that distinguish her from her sister ships. The yacht’s interior is the vision of Destry Darr Designs and features elegant African cherry woodwork with stained mahogany crotch panels, bookmatched and laid out to create intricate and unique patterns throughout. Although VivieRae has the capacity to cruise regions all around the world, her main charter destinations include regions such as the Bahamas, the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Central America. This summer, we recommend enjoying a
charter holiday in the Bahamas, where pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters await you. Start off your itinerary in Providenciales, where she will be anchored at Northwest Point. The first day is all about relaxing and settling in. The following day you might decide to enjoy an afternoon of water sports or a dip in the stunning turquoise waters, followed by dinner prepared with fresh local produce and cocktails with fresh fruit on board. Continuing southwest on to West Caicos the next day, your charter party will have the opportunity to experience some of the world’s best diving spots. She then heads northwest to Mayaguana Island, anchoring off Dean’s Bay – the perfect spot to gain precious glimpses of rare wildlife including eagle rays and sharks. Continue your exploration through the Bahamas by taking your yacht to the Acklins and Crooked Islands, which are among the most remote islands in this entire region, offering miles of deserted and unspoilt sandy beaches. Be sure to take a picture of this beautiful scenery, as it looks just like a paradise postcard with its coral gardens, limestone caves and even remnants of plantations. Then bring your charter holiday to an end by setting course for Long Island where you can enjoy one final swim and breakfast on board before heading back ashore, just in time to catch your flight home.
BUILDER NORDHAVN CRUISING REGION SUMMER/WINTER BAHAMAS/CARIBBEAN - LEEWARD, VIRGIN ISLANDS, WINDWARD, CENTRAL AMERICA LENGTH APPROX. 29.87 m BEAM APPROX. 10.32 m CABINS 4 CRUISING SPEED 10 KNOTS WEEKLY CHARTER RATE FROM EUR 50,000 E&V ID Y-02EQQH CONTACT FRENCH RIVIERA YACHTING (F) EDISON YACHTING SAS – LICENCE PARTNER OF EDISON YACHTING SA TEL. +33 493 85 55 55 E-MAIL FRENCHRIVIERAYACHTING@ENGELVOELKERS.COM
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YACHTING INTERVIEW
Expedition Experts Ben Lyons, CEO of EYOS Expeditions, spoke to us about “world firsts” and record-breaking expeditions, as well as exciting client requests, and future projects for the most ambitious expedition into the deep blue so far this century.
Could you tell us about one of your successful “world’s first”
We pioneered ‘fly-in/fly-out’ superyacht expeditions to Antarctica, to avoid travellers having to cross the rough Drake Passage. We were the first company in over 60 years to get a permit for a foreign vessel to visit Wrangel Island in Russia – with a permit signed by Putin himself, no less! We were also the first company to dive to 1,000 metres, and to be granted a permit to operate a personal submersible in Antarctica! travel expeditions?
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What’s the most interesting travel request you have come
A private yacht wanted to go to the Ross Sea – an extremely remote part of the world, much further south than where all the other yachts go in Antarctica. The trip was a huge success and set a Guinness World Record for the furthest south that any vessel has ever gone in history! How do you stay competitive? EYOS has a history of innovation. We have effectively pioneered this industry and remained at the forefront of ground-breaking expeditions on board superyachts. Our team is, without question, the most experienced in the industry – from the captains to expedition leaders, we have attracted the top talent. By staying focused on making sure we have the most expert and experienced team both in the office and on the vessels, we retain a significant advantage over any new entrant. What are the key trends you see? People want to push the boundaries – in several different ways. There is the physical boundary – in the sense they want to take to helicopters or submersibles and go beyond merely what is found at sea level. Clients are looking for experiences – for something beyond tangible possessions. For many of our clients, it is a chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with families. Yachts in the wilderness provide the perfect environment for that. We also see more and more clients looking to use their yachts for scientific or conservation reasons. Assisting scientists and learning more about the natural world is another trend. What are the up-and-coming destinations? We are seeing more and more interest in the Northwest Passage. Aside from the polar regions, there is growing interest in Papua New Guinea too. The untouched culture, the exquisite tropical scenery, WWII history and excel4 lent diving opportunities all make for an excellent trip. What is the Five Deeps Expedition? We’re actively involved in a pioneering scientific expedition – the Five Deeps (fivedeeps. com). This is something that has never been done before, and we couldn’t be prouder to have been selected to run and manage this expedition. Only three people have ever reached the deepest part of the ocean. Compare that to the number of people who’ve gone to the moon! I’m fascinated by the ocean and believe there’s much to learn from properly exploring life below the surface. Thankfully, with the Five Deeps Expedition, we will inevitably be learning a great deal just by visiting places no-one else has been before. across?
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EYOS arranges luxury expedition yacht charters and leads expeditions 1 CEO Ben Lyons has been captivated by ships and travel all his life 2 Oceania remains an exotic destination 3 A true expedition yacht, Hanse Explorer boasts the highest ice class commercially available 4 A fire dance in Papua New Guinea 5 The island country of Vanuatu forms part of Melanesia. 5
INTERVIEW: MAXIMILIENNE ACQUARONE; PHOTOS: EYOS EXPEDITIONS/ROB MCCALLUM, RAUL TOUZON, MIKE MOORE
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YACHTING ADVICE
The Exploration Experience When asked to describe the experience of exploration yachting in just one word, “liberating” was the immediate, heartfelt response of Fraser Gow, Captain of the 55-metre luxury yacht Gene Machine. We had the chance to sit down with Captain Gow, to hear his fascinating stories, and listen to his sage advice on how to make the most of such an out-of-this-world expedition. STEP ONE – WHERE TO BEGIN?
EXTENDING THE EXPERIENCE
T he
If you’re making the effort to cruise to the ends of the earth you might as well have all the equipment on board to do what you love most. Bear in mind that chase boats, helicopters and seaplanes dramatically expand your operating radius from your yacht, allowing you to potentially see so much more.
first step is to get in touch with your trusted charter broker and ascertain the motivations behind your charter. The sights you’d like to see, the activities that interest you and the culture you’re keen to experience. If you’re searching for icebergs and polar bears, or more along the lines of perfect sandy beaches to enjoy a coconut on, the decision can be much easier than you think.
A MUST FOR ANY EXPLORATION YACHT CHARTER TAKE THE TIME TO COMPILE A ‘TO DO’ LIST We all have a list of top ten things we’d like to do on any particular vacation and it is no different when it comes to a charter trip. Make an actual list of all the activities you’d like to experience, marking your 10 absolute top priorities. Your charter broker and crew are specialised in finding out how to make your requests possible. My suggestion is to get creative with your adventure, remaining realistic when establishing a cruising radius to avoid rushing from each location and missing out on things en route.
ILLUSTRATION: MADALYN FARLEY / JANINE WEITENAUER – CREATIVE MINDS
YOUR PERFECT CHARTER YACHT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE PURPOSE-BUILT
After choosing a destination and deciding your mustdo itinerary, it’s time to select a yacht! Contrary to popular perceptions, you don’t necessarily need a yacht capable of ice-breaking or running on a nuclear reactor to get off the beaten track. There are so many endless possibilities for places you can cruise to without requiring a purpose-built expedition yacht – where you can always stay within the safety envelope of your vessel.
Having a guide on board with local knowledge is absolutely vital. Their insider expertise will prove invaluable and ensure you get the most out of your adventure cruise. I also recommend reading up on the history and culture of your cruising destination, as having background knowledge often gives you a greater appreciation of what earlier explorers went through to get there. WHAT IF I’M NOT ARTIC READY?
Svalbard is a fantastic alternative for a gentler immersion into arctic exploring. It can be reached with relative ease from mainland Norway. Although remote, Svalbard has an international airport allowing guests to come and go as they please. It also boasts several excellent restaurants, one of which once held a Michelin Star, and Norway’s second largest wine cellar. However, be prepared to disconnect from the rest of the world! One of my favourite parts about cruising around Svalbard was the lack of connectivity. Limited Internet access through our Iridium Pilot allowed me to download the latest weather forecasts and ice charts, but not much else! Our guests and crew truly embraced the freedom.
BE EXPLORATION READY!
THE MOST REMARKABLE MEMORY
Exploring remote destinations is lots of fun,
but it is important that safety comes first. Do your due diligence and find out what appropriate gear you will need and whether the yacht provides it or if you’ll have to make arrangements in advance. If you’re planning to explore polar regions, purchasing a ‘Onesie Arctic Jump Suit’ is a great start to help you get prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you, and will guarantee you enjoy your trip even more!
CAPTAIN FRASER GOW, GENE MACHINE Captain Fraser Gow has been a world traveller since a young age and continues his journey with a passion for exploration by sea. Beginning his career in yachting in 2007, Captain Gow worked aboard M/Y Kamalaya before taking up his current role aboard Gene Machine.
Sailing north of Svalbard, I was woken by the office of the watch at 4am and told that a pod of blue whales had been spotted feeding ahead by our support vessel. We woke all our guests as blue whales were on ‘the list’ of items to tick off on this particular trip north. Being late August, the midnight sun was low on the horizon, producing an amber glow that highlighted each and every spout as the whales surfaced to breathe. It was truly incredible!
MASTHEAD PUBLISHER EDISON YACHTING SA, AVENUE JOHN F. KENNEDY, 1855 LUXEMBOURG, CEO ANISSA MEDIOUNI, TEL +35 228 67 52, ANISSA.MEDIOUNI@ENGELVOELKERS.COM, WWW.ENGELVOELKERS.COM/YACHTING, MASTER LICENCE PARTNER OF ENGEL & VÖLKERS YACHTING GMBH /// COORDINATION SASKIA HERRMANN, SASKIA.HERRMANN@ENGELVOELKERS.COM; MAXIMILIENNE ACQUARONE, MAXIMILIENNE.ACQUARONE@ENGELVOELKERS.COM /// CREATIVE & VISUAL DIRECTION JANINE WEITENAUER, WWW.JANINEWEITENAUER.COM /// GRAPHIC DESIGN ANNA GEHRMANN-PHILIPPI (EDITORIAL), ANNA.GEHRMANN-PHILIPPI@GG-MAGAZINE.COM, SASKIA HERRMANN (ADVERTORIAL), SASKIA.HERRMANN@ENGELVOELKERS.COM /// COPY EDITOR UTA ABENDROTH, UTA.ABENDROTH@GG-MAGAZINE.COM /// TRANSLATION ROBERT SMALES /// PRE PRESS BERTHEAU DRUCK GMBH, MARIECURIE-STR.10, D-24537 NEUMÜNSTER /// PRINTER NEEF & STUMME PREMIUM PRINTING GMBH & CO. KG, SCHILLERSTRASSE 2, D-29378 WITTINGEN /// ADVERTISING EDISON YACHTING SA, AVENUE JOHN F. KENNEDY, 1855 LUXEMBOURG, CEO ANISSA MEDIOUNI, TEL +35 228 67 52, ANISSA.MEDIOUNI@ENGELVOELKERS.COM, WWW.ENGELVOELKERS.COM/YACHTING, MASTER LICENCE PARTNER OF ENGEL & VÖLKERS YACHTING GMBH
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