The Phuket News 2018 setsail

SETSAIL MARINE AND LIFESTYLE SUPPLEMENT

January 4 to 7, 2018

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VOULEZ-VOUS RENDEZVOUS?

LIFESTYLE FOR ALL GOES ON SHOW AT RPM

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Welcome message

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elcome to the Phuket RendezVous, held here at the five-star, award-winning Royal Phuket Marina from January 4 – 7, 2018. Built on the 14 years of ever-growing success of the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), this inaugural Phuket RendezVous is to showcase the very best of yachting and luxury lifestyle.

Over the four days showcase event, guests will have the opportunity to access over 40 yachts and meet with yacht brokers, luxury property developers and hospitality key players.

VIP guests will also enjoy exclusive access to selected attractions and superyachts, while all visitors can explore the unique exhibits on show.

“It’s not just about yachting, it’s about lifestyle,” expresses the very essence of what the Phuket RendezVous brings to Phuket. To that not only do the displays include such luxuries as yachts, classic cars, supercars, watches, properties and art, but also on offer are an amazing va-

riety of events and workshops for both individual visitors and big families to enjoy.

To us, the local community is a vital part of making our show a success and we welcome all our Thai hosts to bring their families to experience and enjoy the event, especially as most are not so familiar with the boating lifestyle.

To be sure that the event also attains recognition at the top-class level, Phuket RendezVous will be hosting the prestig-

ious Christofle Yacht Style Awards recognising the best of the yachting industry in Asia and internationally.

The Phuket RendezVous is opening the doors to bring different worlds together in a way that Phuket has not yet seen before. We invite you to indulge and sample a taste of life that you deserve.

Welcome to the Phuket RendezVous 2018 edition!

Gael BURLOT, CEO

Your best day out…

X 2 Yachting has just arrived in Phuket. As an extension of the well-known X2 brand of boutique Hotels, Resorts and Villas that are located across Thailand and neighbouring countries, X2 Yachting strives to offer a high-class, great-value product but with customer safety and comfort at the forefront.

X2 Yachting owns and runs three yachts, but intends to increase the fleet in time and has just opened their new office in Pa Khlok. Over the next six weeks all three yachts will arrive and be permanently berthed at Ao Po Grand Marina.

Each yacht is fully crewed with captains, engineers and trained hostesses.

All are air conditioned, luxurious and carry a pair of two-man canoes, snorkelling gear, fishing gear and their own 18ft centre console rubber boat to enable six to eight passengers to go ashore safely onto any island. They also have an assortment of inflatable water toys.

The first yacht – Shiraz, a 53ft Grand Banks-style motor yacht – has just arrived.

Shiraz was refurbished in late 2016 to better suit the Thai luxury charter market.

This included adding a new hardtop and extending the large fly bridge area to

comfortably handle 10+ guests. The classic teak styling was kept throughout but subtle luxury touches were added.

Shiraz can accommodate 20 passengers on a standard day trip and four-plus overnight. She has one main bedroom with an ensuite and one twin-bunk room with a separate bathroom. Shiraz is available for charter right now.

Next to arrive will be Merlot, a similar 57ft Grand Banks-style motor yacht that has been fully redesigned for charter and refurbished throughout with a modern feel. This was a year-long project that has produced something special.

Merlot has one modern double bedroom with ensuite and a second bathroom. She can take two-plus overnight and carry 20 people comfortably on day trips. Merlot will arrive in Phuket early this month. Like Shiraz, Merlot has been upgraded with a large hardtop and fly bridge for maximum customer comfort.

Our third yacht is a spacious 53ft modern-styled catamaran that is currently being upgraded with a full luxury finish. Chardonnay has twin double bedrooms and bathrooms and can carry 40 passengers on day trips and four-plus overnight. She is a beautiful, spacious

yacht that will be in Phuket from early February.

All three yachts are fully stocked with water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, snacks and an assortment of beverages. All prices include free food and drinks for up to 12 people. All yachts are available for private, corporate or group bookings separately or as a fleet of three. All are available for overnight and multi-day bookings. X2 aims to accommodate any customer’s special requests.

If you’ve been longing for a fantastic day out on a luxury yacht at a location of your choice around Phuket, Phang Nga or the local offshore islands, please call Khun Lek (Sales) at (66) 87 6118075 or (66) 65 597 9524, or email sales@x2yachtcharter.com. Website: X2YachtCharter.com.

All agents are welcome.

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Next Destination: Luxury Princess 32M

Astondoa 102 GLX

Princess 64 Sealine 47

Westport 130 Seabear

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he renowned world of cruising islands off Phuket has long lured travellers from around the globe to explore the stunning beaches, limestone karts and mesmerising natural hongs, yet that world is on the cusp of opening up a host of new destinations, all within easy reach by luxury charters.

“There is a growing demand in overseas cruises, especially going to Langkawi and Myanmar, which are new unspoilt destinations just opening up,” says Rico Stapel, Head of Charter at Boat Lagoon Cruises.

“With this growing demand, we have new additions to our fleet – and our yachts are extremely well suited to serve these new destinations in comfort and style.”

Ready to take guests away from it all in Phuket in resplendent sea-going white is a new Princess 64, complete with its two double and two twin cabins as well as a BBQ/Grill and submersible swimming platform and toys on board for snorkelling and fishing.

Joining Boat Lagoon Cruises’ Phuket fleet is the elegant Princess 32M superyacht. The magnificent saloon is illuminated along its whole length by vast windows on each side and to starboard large glass sliding doors lead out to a spectacular, drop-down balcony. The spacious flybridge is ideal for entertaining and alfresco dining while the spa bath is integrated with the sunbed and the large aft area features breathtaking views.

Also offering cruising comfort in style is the 32m Astondoa superyacht with four her sumptuous cabins, 360-degree view flybridge, bar, en-

tertainment lounge and a host of toys.

But Boat Lagoon Cruises is not just about Phuket. “We’re expanding into Singapore,” explains Rico. “We have a Westport 130ft superyacht lying with our fleet in Singapore, along with a Sealine 47 that is ideal for family outings and the more sporty clients,” he says. “The Westport is cruising into Indonesia and the Sealine is ideal for short family trips.”

The Westport is not to be underestimated.

Luxurious, spacious, comfortable and stylish with functional, elegant interiors arranged for privacy, convenience, the fully air-conditioned yacht is ideal for socialising, entertaining, relaxing and water sports.

The Sealine makes a bold modern statement in design. Pure, simple lines and contemporary washed walnut finishes, create an open-plan feel throughout. The single level deck has a three-part glass sliding door, which transforms the cockpit and saloon into one large sociable space. The cockpit is ideal for entertaining, with L-shaped seating and an optional fridge and grill to add to the enjoyment of alfresco dining.

Boat Lagoon Cruises’ fleet of luxury yachts and the pristine destinations opening up are ushering a new era for yacht cruises in the region. “I am very excited about the future of cruises in the area, and looking forward to seeing even more and bigger boats coming to the area and developing a truly international yachting lifestyle,” smiles Rico.

Contact Rico Stapel at Tel (+66) 86 690 0444 or Email: info@BoatLagoon Cruises.com

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POWERCAT REVOLUTION L

eopard is leading the powercat revolution.

Powered by reliable Yanmar engines, Leopard Catamarans produces superior powercats which are modern and economical. These yachts push the boundaries of catamaran design. When it comes to elegance, performance and ease, these powercats match up well to that of a traditional motor yacht. But what sets these yachts apart from the rest is the added stability of twin hulls – they are superior in every way.

There were no details left unattended in the creation of the Leopard 43 PC, which will be featured at the Phuket RendezVous, on January 4-7, 2018. This yacht amplifies speed and agility. From the expansive flybridge with a grill and wet bar option, manoeuvring this yacht is simple and enjoyable. She is spacious, with a stepped hull design which provides more interior volume, yet does not sacrifice the performance of this yacht. The saloon’s forward facing L-shaped galley is accompanied by an L-shaped dinette, situated aft.

Sliding glass doors between the settee and aft cockpit seating area, plus a large window forward and access door to the bow create a feeling of continuous indooroutdoor living space.

She can be purchased in an owner’s version with three cabins and two heads with the entire starboard hull as a dedicated suite, or in a four-cabin, two-head version.

For those looking for more length, look no further than the flagship of the Leopard Powercat fleet, the Leopard 51 PC. She possesses a multitude of exciting and innovative features. She boasts a sleek design, a large forward cockpit, ample areas to lounge, a spacious flybridge with a well-appointed helm station, a sunbathing platform and upgraded interiors with modern appliances. The open-concept main saloon

The Leopard 43 PC will be featured at the Phuket RendezVous. provides 360-degree views of your surroundings and plenty of space for entertaining. You can own her in a three-cabin, three-head version with the starboard hull as a dedicated owner’s suite, or with four cabins and four heads.

In addition to a fleet of exceptional powercats, Leopard Catamarans boasts an award-winning fleet of sailing catamarans ranging from 40 feet to 58 feet in size. This includes the all-new Leopard 50, the next generation of sailing catamarans. The exterior styling on the Leopard 50 gives the hull a sleek and sophisticated look. She comes with a multitude of options, including a

flybridge lounge option, known as Leopard 50L. Sailors looking for the familiar, continuous hardtop can opt for the Leopard 50P. This version delivers increased performance particularly when fitted with the offered squaretop mainsail and other available performance-orientated rigging and sail options. She will be making her world debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2018. She is available in a three-cabin plus utility room, four-cabin or five-cabin version.

To learn more, please visit: www.leopardcatamarans. com

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Pattaya’s cruising grounds are opening up F

ollowing changes to Customs Department rulings in Pattaya last year, more international yachts are heading to the Gulf of Thailand to explore the area’s stunning cruising grounds and 187 islands, as well as world-class onshore facilities.

“With the region opening up more than ever before, we are already starting to see more international yachts coming to Pattaya and exploring the Gulf of Thailand. We expect this trend to continue and also see more international yachts coming to compete in the Top of the Gulf Regatta next year,” said William Gasson, Co-Chairman, Top of the Gulf Regatta Organising Committee.

To be held April 27 to May 1, 2018, the award-winning regatta has already developed a reputation for delivering top-class racing from one of the best waterfront settings in Thailand – Ocean Marina Yacht Club. The regatta is hosted at the marina, which provides safe berthing and peace of mind to boat owners and crew, and onshore provides a convivial après-regatta scene.

“Top of the Gulf Regatta’s social scene is quite unique. After racing, all boats return to the marina and sailors

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gather on the lawn for sundowners. It’s a real sailors atmosphere with people trading stories of the day, making new friendships and all in a fun, relaxed atmosphere,” noted Scott Finsten, Harbour Master of Ocean Marina Yacht Club.

Up to 12 classes and a fleet of 200plus boats will compete in the awardwinning regatta ranging from Optimists, which compete in the Thailand Optimist National Championships, to Lasers and 420s in the dinghy classes up to onedesign Platus, competing for the Platu Coronation Cup, keelboats and multihulls. There’s even an International One Meter (IOM) Radio Controlled Yacht Class – a class which is growing in popularity in the region and which saw 20 sailors compete in 2017.

“The diversity of the Top of the Gulf Regatta has always been one of the unique aspects of the regatta. We have supported the kids through hosting the national championships each year, and we subsidize entry fees. Competing in the same water and at the same time as the larger boats is inspirational for the youngsters – they look up to the senior sailors who in turn are also keen to offer

Top of the Gulf Regatta offers some great racing action. Photo by Guy Nowell The one-design Platus offers some of the closest on-water racing. Photo by Guy Nowell their support,” added Mr Gasson.

Looking to grow the charter fleet, organisers have listed a number of charter opportunities at www.topofthegulfregatta.com/charters. There are monohulls ranging from 53-foot Beneteaus to 25-foot Platus, as well as multihulls including a Perry Prestige 57 and a 53-foot Fountain Pajot Catamaran, amongst others.

“We often get requests from overseas sailors who wish to charter and compete, and in the past we have helped to find suitable boats on a case-

by-case basis. Starting earlier this year, we have now formalised this and on the regatta website is a collection of available quality charter boats – racers and cruisers, monohulls and multihulls. These are not only for international sailors but also for sailors in Thailand who prefer to charter or for crews in Phuket who prefer to fly in and race, rather than sailor their boats around from the Andaman to the Gulf,” added Mr Gasson.

For more information, visit www. topofthegulfregatta.com

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The World of Andaman Cruises

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private charter with Andaman Cruises is the perfect way to discover unique destinations around the Andaman Sea. Embark on a lavish adventure into the vibrant marine playground of the Phuket Archipelago aboard the most exciting and stylish luxury yachts.

Get ready for an amazing voyage to stunning tropical islands around the exquisite sailing waters of Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Racha and Similan Islands. The region and its maritime national parks are renowned as some of the most beautiful yachting grounds in the world.

“Our company stands for luxury experiences, lifestyle and premium hospitality. Today, people of all nationalities come from all over the world to enjoy the peaceful and pristine waters of Phuket and the Andaman Sea,” says General Manager Christian Schwind.

Andaman Cruises provides amazing voyages to stunning tropical islands around the exquisite sailing waters of Phang Nga Bay, Krabi, Racha and Similan Islands.

The region and its maritime national parks are renowned as some of the most beautiful yachting grounds in the world.

“Our company stands for luxury experiences, lifestyle and premium hospitality,” says General Manager Christian Schwind.

Contemporary luxury yachts The fleet of 10 vessels includes fascinating yachts offering comfort, privacy and exceptional service. A floating masterpiece is the 135-foot Ocean Emerald, combining luxury, contemporary design and cruising perfection. On the tri-deck superyacht designed by Norman Foster guests can enjoy a dip in the upper-deck jacuzzi.

The stylish MY Olympia 76-foot flybridge motor yacht features four cabins and accommodates a total of eight

guests for overnight cruises and 20 guests for a day charter. Guests can enjoy access to exotic and remote private beaches, as well as exciting afternoons of waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Luxurious and comfortable in all conditions, MY Mayavee, a 60-foot motor yacht from the renowned English family of Princess, combines exceptional cruising capabilities with the space to entertain in class-leading style. She accommodates a total of six guests for overnight cruises and 16 guests for a day trip.

Unforgettable cruising experience Yachting is especially about the scenery. And Phuket boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking maritime views. It offers a huge diversity and a range of activities from kayaking, to diving and snorkelling. Just northeast of Phuket, Phang Nga Bay offers more than 100 islands with sheer limestone rocks that rise vertically out of the water to stunning heights. Further attractions are a floating Sea Gypsy village, mangrove channels and caves. Another enchanting island just south is Phi Phi. Beautiful lagoons have rightly made these islands amongst the most famous in the world.

Tel: +66 7631 6562 Email: book@ andaman-cruises.com

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THE EXPERT WAY T

he yachting industry in Southeast Asia has seen significant growth in recent years with yacht shows, races and regattas increasing in size, numbers and frequency. In Thailand alone, the next year will see at least 10 different international yachting events, all expected to generate millions of dollars and attract tens of thousands of visitors.

The reasons for this kind of growth are manifold: destinations such as Phuket, Langkawi and Singapore meet many of the key requirements of becoming premier sports tourism destinations, including easy access, a pleasant climate, a certain level of prestige, authenticity and, finally, diversity in the form of other tourism and leisure-related facilities.

The shift in wealth from West to East is also a determining factor. The number of superyachts sold to Asian buyers is steadily increasing, as is the number of visiting yachts from elsewhere in Asia, Europe and the Americas. This is due in no small part to the excellent facilities in place at the region’s marinas.

Last but not least, the Thai, Malay and the Singaporean governments are actively and aggressively supporting and promoting the yachting industry.

The Thai Ministry of Transport recently

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announced a new licence that allows foreign-flagged superyachts to charter in Thai waters, a move meant to incentivise overseas yacht owners to bring their yachts to Southeast Asia during the European off-season.

In other words, sports tourism is becoming a buzzword and entrepreneurs, investors and governments are all buying in. This presents a huge opportunity for organisers to put on bigger and better events and for brands and businesses to reach out to a specific target group of high net worth individuals (HNWIs), build brand identity, and align their marketing initiatives with some of the region’s biggest and most prestigious events. It also means there is a growing need for marketing consultants to help match sponsors for the many events and maximise their potential.

In the 10 years or so we have sold yachting events in the region, we have witnessed a significant change in the way these events are run and the expectations sponsors have. As events are becoming more professionally run, brands and businesses have higher expectations and they want innovative solutions and sophisticated marketing.

Here are some steps organisers and sponsors can take to ensure they get the most out of the partnership.

Before the event Planning is the key to a successful event and it is important sponsors and organisers identify their objectives. Contrary to what many believe, sponsors are not benefactors and the event is not a charitable cause. Organisers should understand the needs and objectives of sponsoring brands and businesses, just as brands and businesses should understand the particular event and its participants to maximise the benefits of the sponsorship.

During the event Activation is the key to a successful sponsorship. A rule of thumb is for every dollar spent on sponsorship, sponsors are encouraged to spend an additional dollar on the activation of the sponsorship. The world of advertising is changing and specialised events such as a yacht show, race or regatta offer a perfect opportunity for businesses to more directly engage with their target customers. In addition to traditional activation methods, such as promotional booths, businesses must recognise the importance of social media. With event participants active on a variety of social media platforms, sponsors should be visible throughout the event and organisers can increase their visibility by being

associated with brands and businesses who already have a large following.

After the event Don’t make the mistake of thinking that the job is done when the event is over. Now is the time to measure the benefit of the sponsorship, and while most sponsors are looking for a return on investment which they can quantify, there are benefits which aren’t immediately measurable, such as long-term brand attributes, increased awareness and indirect sales. You can’t always put a monetary value on an objective, so organisers should help sponsors meet objectives that are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timed.

Paul Poole is the founder, managing director and chairman of Paul Poole (South East Asia) Co., Ltd., an independent marketing consultancy based in Bangkok, Thailand. For more information, please email at info@ paulpoole.co.th or visit: www. paulpoole.co.th

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