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Luxury yachts, otherwise known as Super yachts, are classified as either sailing or motor yachts. This determination is based obviously on their method of propulsion. These luxurious and tremendously expensive vessels are usually privately owned and operated. With a professional crew at hand, the lifestyle aboard these vessels can be a relaxing one. The philosophy of having a relaxing a relaxing life, even for a few days is a dream to many people who can actually afford to own one of these beauties. This could be why they are increasing in popularity. The increase in sales and production took manufacturing from being predominately in the United States and Western Europe, to being a worldwide phenomenon. The top manufacturers in the world are European; such as Ferretti and Feadship. This could be basically due to the accessibility of the materials needed to create a Super yacht. The ability to obtain these materials quickly and economically can make a huge difference in the product cost when dealing in this size and nature.
For those who do not have the means to purchase a luxury yacht, there is the option of chartering. This is essentially renting a yacht like you would a vacation home. Along with the yacht, you also get the crew, you can customize what type of yacht is best fitting for your needs at that given time, and the location. There can still be enormous costs associated with chartering. The expected costs added to the initial fees will run about 25-30% for expenses in stocking the yacht (including fuel) and another 15-20% gratuity for the crew. This can raise the total charter fee more than 50% of the original cost.
Some luxury yacht owners choose to charter their yachts, this can be an effective way to keep your crew active and supplement some of the costs of up keep. Owners who choose to charter their yachts need to choose whether they would like to offer this option full-time or just part-time. By doing it partially through out the year, owners enable themselves to still utilize their yacht, but share the costs and maintenance as well. Owners who choose to charter their yachts year round view this more as an investment than recreational purchase. The average super yacht price could be upwards of 10s of millions of dollars; this far exceeds the average house price, even for these buyers.
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Transforming immensely over the past few decades, super yachts now have the option for almost any amenity imaginable. Some even come with a form of mini transportation to make land accessible. This can include Jet Ski’s, speedboats or even scuba gear. For the ultra luxurious will find that some yachts even have helicopter platforms. Equipped with flat screens, satellite communications, and most conveniences of modern living, these floating resorts do not leave much to be desired. The newest addition to these massive fleets is the rare, but increasingly popular Mega yacht. These are a minimum of 328 feet. Some even include indoor swimming pools or miniature submarines. The term Mega yacht could be synonymous with mini personal cruise ship.
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