Superyacht Galley Equipment Every Yacht Chef Needs
With gadgets and equipment developing every year, we’ve taken the time to update you on the latest Superyacht galley equipment. Professional chefs don’t bat an eye when you ask them which tools and equipment they’d choose – they know exactly what is an absolute must, and what is a definite no-go.
The following are some of the top galley equipment choices and recommendations from Superyacht chefs:
The Thermomix is every chef’s dream piece of equipment! Combining the functions of more than twelve food appliances in one device, it has the ability to weigh, mix, chop, mill, knead, blend, steam, cook, beat, precisely heat, stir and emulsify. Whether you’re cooking for charter guests or spoiling the crew, this machine is the one for you. The spectrum ranges from simply boiling eggs and making the dreamiest salad dressings and dips to pesto, steamed fish, risotto, liqueur, or even ice cream.
The Pacojet is a must-have piece of modern equipment for cooking on board. The appliance uses micro-pureeing of fresh, deep-frozen ingredients under overpressure to produce velvety-smooth mousses, soups, farces, sauces, and ice creams. In addition, with options to chop, cut, or mix fresh, non-frozen foods without heat transfer, this is a vital tool to save you valuable time.
Looking for a smaller, more compact appliance that you can take onto any boat? This small device heats water to precise temperatures to cook meat and other food evenly for the exact timing you require. It does this by using the increasingly popular cooking technique known as sous vide. The sous vide is controlled by a companion smartphone recipe app for iPhone and Android. Talk about luxury kitchen equipment…
Reaches deep into pots, pitchers, and bowls to quickly purée or blend ingredients. Offering customisable functionality and 21 speeds for versatile use, this state-of-the-art hand blender allows you to change your mixture’s consistency by controlling the blade speeds.
Are you looking for a bread maker that can store your recipes? Look no further. The custom loaf automatic programs include; gluten-free, yeast-free, crusty loaf, dough/pasta & jam. With an automatic fruit and nut dispenser, as well as a collapsable kneading blade, your guests won’t be able to get enough of your bread! Why not use Brevilles AR technology to realistically envision your Breville machine on the galley counter.
Create classic flavours with wood chips, or expand your culinary creativity by smoking with teas, spices, and dried flowers. Also, it’s ideal for cocktails and other drinks too! How about a Manhattan cocktail infused with cigar smoke? The Sage smoking gun is an example of luxury equipment at its finest. Your creativity is limitless with the Sage smoking gun.
So, now you’ve got all the essential Superyacht galley equipment, how about discovering how to get the most out of edible flowers in your galley?
A Tour of Flying Fox: The World’s Largest Charter Yacht
A Tour of M/Y Flying Fox: The World’s Largest Charter Yacht
Rumoured to be owned by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Lurssen’s superyacht Flying Fox is the largest charter yacht in the world. At 136m in length, it’s a truly incredible vessel, reflected in the eye-watering €3,00,000 weekly charter price. Amongst guests chartering the yacht are the likes of Logan and Jake Paul, and Beyonce and Jay-Z, truly making it a yacht for the elites of the world. We are taking you on a top-to-bottom tour of the Flying Fox, covering everything from guest suites to the tender garage.
Beyonce and Jay-Z aboard Flying Fox
Her exterior
The 7,000 square metres of Espen Øino’s undulating exterior contain a remarkable array of spaces, each conceived with originality by Øino, Mark Berryman, and the owner. These ideas were then completed with perfection by Lürssen. Imperial Yachts CEO Evgeniy Kochman, who personally attended over 50 meetings with the customer, studying over the GA for an average of 14 hours at a time, says the owner was extremely involved with every detail, “from the engine room to the observation deck.” The owner’s prior fleet of superyachts was instrumental in determining the design. “It seemed obvious to integrate their facilities into one fully operational superyacht,” Kochman adds.
Flying Fox’s stunning exterior. Credit: Imperial.
Inside Superyacht Flying Fox
Guest accommodation
Flying Fox features 10 spacious guest suites. They are arranged in a row in front of the gym, allowing visitors to go straight from their beds to work out or have a morning swim. These rooms are all of the same sizes and open onto one of the long side decks, which divides into large fixed balconies in various configurations by hidden sliding panels. The spaces are modern and calming, made to induce a state of relaxation for guests chartering the yacht.
The spacious guest suites. Credit: Imperial.
On the upper deck, the master suite is located. It continues following the same design sensibilities and embellishments found in the guest suites, creating a cohesive experience throughout the vessel. A 48-square-metre bathroom is centred with an oval bath and a large shower that are all spaced outboard for views through double-fronted sliding doors onto the vast private terrace that runs around the front of the suite.
The owner’s suite is another spectacular space, fitted with his and hers dressing rooms, a cosy living room, and a spa pool, located on the enormous private terrace. Additionally, the suite houses multiple workspaces – a meeting room and the owner’s office, accessed through a studio.
Social living spaces
When it comes to social living spaces, the saloon found to Port on the Upper Deck is the perfect place for friends and family to gather. It’s a leafy space, full of plants including two spectacular ficus trees. The lush plants are all on automated watering schedules to ensure they remain healthy. Bringing a sense of cosiness to the saloon is a real wood fireplace. It works like a typical fireplace, but with insulated ducts that route smoke up the mast with the help of forced extraction.
The leafy two-level saloon. Credit: Imperial.
A dining saloon adjacent to the bridge deck saloon features a large table to seat all the yacht’s guests. A centre tank, complete with vibrant artificial corals, gives a pop of colour while also separating the areas (which can be entirely sequestered using sliding screens). The dining area features an open, outdoor kitchen that allows guests to sit at the counter and watch the chef work, or at the extendable dining table.
The dining saloon features an open kitchen layout. Credit: Imperial.
The facilities
Alongside all the amazing living spaces, Flying Fox also houses many luxurious facilities for guests to enjoy.
There’s a well-stocked superyacht gym full of the latest gym equipment, a terrace for fresh-air yoga, and a gym “menu” spelling out what’s on offer for more energetic guests. It’s staffed by ex-British military instructors to give guests much-needed motivation to complete their workouts.
Alongside the gym is the vessel’s impressive 400sqm 2-floor Spa. It features heated limestone floors and louvred oak panelling centrepieces, providing individuals wishing to escape the outer world.
Flying Fox’s calming Spa. Credit: Imperial.
Perhaps the most breathtaking addition to the yacht is her spectacular pool. The 12-meter swimming pool, which runs transversely on the main deck, is a technological feat and a first for a superyacht of this size.
Toys and tenders
Flying Fox yacht houses a wide range of toys and tenders in her expansive tender garage. Inside, you can find five tenders and a plethora of toys ranging from flyboards and hoverboards to Seabobs and windsurfs. The facility is also designed to suit the requirements for using gasoline to fuel the tenders. Here is a full list of all the toys and tenders onboard:
Yacht Crew: Your Official Invitation To The 2022 YachtNeeds Crew Party
Superyacht Content is the official media partner for the 2022 Yachtneeds Party!
YachtNeeds marketplace and Port Vauban are happy to announce their partnership in hosting their annual fun-filled Yachtneeds Crew Party, which will take place on Friday 8th April 2022. With hundreds of crew already registered and more continuing to sign up, Bastion Saint Jaume, Antibes will be filled with yachties from far and wide, ready to party the night away.
Captains and crew attending the event can expect a night of fun, laughs, catching up with friends, free bbq, free drinks, exceptional DJs, musicians, magicians, and much more.
Haven’t registered yet? Click here and come and meet us at the crew party of the year! Be there for the start of the party at 7:00 pm, and don’t forget to wear your best Hawaiian shirt!
“The reason we’re putting this event on is not only to celebrate the launch of YACHTNEEDS marketplace but also to bring the industry back together. Yacht crew are the backbone of our industry and thanks to our partnership with Port Vauban Antibes and our sponsors, we’re able to offer crew a really fun night off the boat in an incredible location,” – Tony Stout, Founder of Yachtneeds.
We would also like to say a big thank you to the sponsors of the 2022 Yachtneeds crew party!
Port Vauban
Onshore Cellars
Viking Maritime Group
Tailor Made Monaco
PYA
Gourmet Deliveries
Bunker Engineering Solutions
GF Entertainment
All Services
Watch Now for highlights of the 2019 Yachtneeds crew party in Port Vauban, Antibes:
For further details of the event, stay up to date by clicking here.
To check out the 2022 Superyacht Events, Click here
MB92 La Ciotat Superyacht Shipyard Closer To Completion
MB92 La Ciotat, France’s leading superyacht refit shipyard, announced that a major milestone has been reached in the construction of the platform, maintaining the shipyard’s schedule for the opening of the facility as planned this autumn for yachts up to 115-metres in length.
What’s new?
Following the delivery last summer of the main elements of the structure and 9 months of engineering work on-site, the Matière-Bardex team has now completed the complex task of assembling and moving the lifting platform to its final position. At 100 metres in length, equivalent to a football pitch, and 20 metres wide, the platform weighs 1,100 tonnes and required a team of 20 people and 3 hours to carry out the exceptional manoeuvre of moving the shiplift structure and 2 days for the final installation in the concrete recess.
The innovative Bardex lifting system which includes 20 chain jacks is now being installed and features a hydraulic ram and chain system expressly designed to increase safety and reduce maintenance.
The Installation of the world’s largest artificial harbour-based fish nursery:
The platform’s docks have been equipped with a biomimetic solution supplied by the company Seaboost. Based on the complex structure of Posidonia seagrass, this solution creates an effective, integrated, and safe environment that will encourage the reproduction of local marine species.
In addition to the nursery, La Ciotat Shipyards, the local port authority, have administered an exemplary project, implementing numerous environmental measures during the construction phase such as soil decontamination, reuse of materials on-site, installation of a double bubble curtain, and anti-sediment curtains to protect cetaceans and water quality.
Mathieu Bauden, MB92 La Ciotat Facilities Director comments:
“This is a key stage in the delivery of the 4300t platform which leaves us well-positioned as we enter the final six months of the project. The next important steps are the delivery of the control building, the installation of all energy networks, reception of the transfer system, the cradles, and final testing followed by certification by Lloyds this summer.”
Vincent Escallier, Commercial Director of MB92 La Ciotat added:
“We are all looking forward to the imminent opening of our new facility and this latest accomplishment brings us one step closer. It’s an extraordinary piece of infrastructure that complements the wide range of lifting options available to clients of our shipyard.”
The Monaco Superyacht Brokerage recently announced the 71m Superyacht KOGO is listed for sale for USD 69,500,000 excluding VAT.
Superyacht KOGO design features were by the award-winning, British yacht designer, Tim Heywood. She’s a 2006 luxurious explorer yacht, built to MCA and Lloyds class and designed to take guests on adventures to off-the-beaten-track locations. The 71.7m Superyacht reaches a top speed of 17 knots while sitting at an impressive cruising range of 5000 nautical miles.
The vessels luxurious and sophisticated modern interior was designed by Terence Disdale and features a spacious open-plan living area on the main and bridge decks. Not forgetting her ability to accommodate fourteen guests across her seven staterooms.
Inside, you’ll find a full range of amenities including a spa, steam room, and state-of-the-art gym. The 71m Superyacht KOGO offers multiple outdoor living spaces with a beach club and bathing platform, a large spa pool, an open-air cinema plus a dedicated helipad for direct access to the yacht no matter where you are in the world.
“KOGO is iconic. So many firsts in her sector. Diesel-electric, Ice class, Helideck, Beach Club, Stone deck, huge Range, high top speed, and a brilliant layout. Plus, a rock-solid construction and the legends that are Tim Heywood and Terence Disdale (personally) having designed her. This is a real deal go anywhere Superyacht.” – said Alex Banning, Broker, and Director at SuperYachtsMonaco.
71m Superyacht KOGO Key Features:
Dedicated Helipad
Beach Club
The original superyacht ice-class explorer
Multi-award winning design including World Superyacht of the Year Award 2007
Lloyd’s 15-year special survey classification completed in 2021
Powered by diesel-electric propulsion with twin ABB Azipods for reduced noise and vibration when cruising
Exteriors and Interiors by world-renowned Tim Heywood and Terence Disdale respectively
Quantum zero speed stabilisers for exceptional comfort when at-anchor
Indoor and outdoor cinemas with Dolby surround sound and HD cinema screens
Our Interview With Yacht Photographer, Tom Van Oossanen
Tom Van Oosannen
Tom Van Oossanen is a Yacht photographer from the Netherlands. After previously working for SuperYacht Times for three years, he decided to take the plunge and start his own company, providing the superyacht industry with high-quality photography and videography. And it goes without saying, his photography and videography skills didn’t go unnoticed! In fact, Tom went on to work with some of the most recognised Superyacht Builders in the world, including – Lurssen, Feadship, and many more.
1. 2021 was a big year for you, from starting the year capturing feadships ‘Boardwalk’ leaving the shipyard, to finishing with the delivery of Royal Huismans, ‘Phi’. Do you feel that 2021 was your biggest year as a Superyacht photographer so far?
2021 was certainly big, with limited traveling options you have to be creative and find jobs in the Netherlands and Germany, luckily I work with all major shipyards here and I managed to have enough work! There have been some amazing projects out this year with PHI definitely being a favourite.
2. Do you know exactly how many yachts you worked with last year? And is there any, in particular, that were your favourite?
I think around 15 superyachts this year, but some I simply can not publish anything about, unfortunately! I’m very excited to work on La Datcha in the Maldives for a week, I remember the Monaco yacht show back in 2015, when Damen announced the SeaXplorer concept, to then be on it in the Maldives 6 years later was epic!
3. Having captured images and videos of the most extravagant yachts in the world, have you any remaining Superyachts on your list that you would love to work with in the future? Or any that you would enjoy working with again?
I love to work with Predator one day, what an absolute beast! I have never seen her out in the wild but it would be very cool to see that one in action and create some unique imagery. Same as for SKAT, I have seen her many times, but would love a few days with that boat.
Image by Superyachts.com
4. With your job, comes travel. What locations did you visit last year and where would you say was your favorite?
I didn’t visit that many places in 2021. The Maldives yes, St Maarten, and obviously the Med. But I have also captured some huge transport through the Netherlands and I probably enjoyed that the most! As traveling these times is very uncomfortable…
5. It goes without saying that the name ‘Tom Van Oossanen’ is well recognised and respected within the Industry. When you began to experience such recognition for your work, what was it like and how did you feel? Tell us about the good and the bad (If there is any).
I was thinking, Finally! It was 15 years in the making by then… Though when I look back at the work I created I fully understand no one noticed earlier… Nah just kidding. I keep developing myself and sometimes my best work from today looks terrible already after a month. But It has been super fun when you work for something for that long, and it’s really nice when people like what you’re doing. In the end, it is your job, so it better works out.
6. Instagram is slowly seeing changes, from starting out as just photos to video and now reels. With Instagram being the main platform for digital creators, over time do you think this will affect the way you present your work?
Hmm, I have never been a social media wonder, I just upload a photo with a short description, it has always worked. But I can not keep up with all the latest trends, I guess I am getting old
7. What advice would you give to your younger self when you first started out in the world of yacht photography?
Just keep working hard, get your name out there. As exactly what I did. On the road every day with my camera, taking pics of anything that floats and keep learning, improving your skills. I would probably not have done it any different…
8. Lastly, do you have any exciting news for the coming year that you’d like to share with us or any past work that you’d like to shine light upon?
I have so many photos I would love to share with the world, there are a few things pending… A book, documentary, and even an exhibition. But first, the world needs to get back to normal to properly plan things again.
But 2022 I want it to be my best year so far and to be honest it has been off to a great start!
In celebration of AYSS’ successful year in 2021, we got to speak with their new chairman, Carlos Miquel. In this interview, Carlos shares with us his ongoing contributions to the Superyacht industry and tells us what he has in store for AYSS in the future.
Carlos was elected as Chairman of AYSS in October 2021 after serving for two consecutive terms as Vice-Chairman. Carlos Miquel joined AYSS in May 2018 when he was asked by SASYSS to take over the place on the council from CEO/COO of the SAYSS Tomas Miranda.
Who is Carlos Miquel?
Carlos Miquel is the Regional Director for North America, the Caribbean, and Europe for SASYSS, South American Superyacht Support Services. He joined SASYSS in 2014 and resides in Coral Springs, Florida. In his role, he handles all aspects related to promoting and educating about Chile, Patagonia, and Antarctica as a destination for private and charter superyachts. He is also involved in all the marketing aspects of SASYSS and conducts regular meetings with potential clients for the planning of their trips.
Originally from Chile, Carlos is of German descent and has been a resident of Florida since 1997. With the headquarters of AYSS located in Chile, it’s not uncommon for the chairman to visit often, usually 4-5 times per year. He enlightened us on his passion and enthusiasm for naval architecture and marine biology. This led to his studies in Germany, where he earned a master’s degree in civil engineering in hydraulics. Having lived in Chile, Germany, the Canary Islands, and the US, Carlos has held top management positions in several multi-national companies!
Despite being an engineer and before joining SASYSS, Carlos worked for 20 years with the Chilean wine and tourism industry promoting and educating about Chile and its wines in the US and worldwide.
Five Fun facts about Carlos Miquel:
Carlos is trilingual – Spanish, German and English – having been born in Chile to 4th generation German immigrants back in the 1850s.
Carlos has lived and worked in 4 different countries: Chile, Germany, Spain, and the USA
During his spare time, the new AYSS chairman enjoys spending time boating, playing tennis, and traveling. He is a certified soccer referee, who worked as a tennis teacher and held a Florida USTA tennis ranking.
Carlos sails competitively in the Olympic Star Class sailboats, where he currently holds a top 250 world ranking!
Carlos spent the 1985 earthquake – the magnitude of 8.0 Mw – and the following tsunami in Chile on board a yacht only 30 km. from the epicenter – and is still here to tell about it.
A Note From the New AYSS Chairman:
During the pandemic, we have learned that yachts and captains need and appreciate working with reputable, serious, and honest agents. We offer them guidence to navigate through all the new and different regulations from county to country. Communication between captains and agents has become vital. For successful yacht deliveries, owner/charter cruises, and networking amongst all parties, it is more important than ever before to communicate. It will remain this way for years to come.
It is here, that AYSS as a global association has shown some of its values to captains, as well as to its members. We are happy to see that our membership of current and prospective members continues to grow. Although we are not completely out of the woods of the pandemic yet, most economists now believe the worst is behind us. I believe at AYSS we have been effective in increasing our relevance by sharpening our focus on the core elements of the Superyacht industry.
Recovery for some members might likely still be a bit bumpy. So, our collective efforts will continue in supporting those members in the best way we can. All done whist concentrating on continuing to grow our membership of full, associate, and corporate members, and perhaps introduce new categories of memberships. We will look to continue strengthening the AYSS brand through social media marketing which should benefit all members. I look forward to a busy and successful year for all of our AYSS family!
Carlos, what is your plan for the future of AYSS?
I have presented a four-pillar program to our council members of four specific areas that I think we should work on as an Association. I cannot mention all of them, because some of them are still under discussion. However, three of our fundamental goals include: growing our membership, expanding our membership types, and continuing to grow our global presence and awareness through targeted Social Media and networking. As the current leading association of Yacht Support Services, we’re looking for more benefits for our members through strategic alliances with the marine industry partners and the general service industry.
Who are the current AYSS associate members?
At present, we have over 60 Superyacht Agencies from around the world that are part of our membership programme.
Do you plan to continue expanding the network?
Yes, definitely – this is one of our primary goals! There are many destinations in the world that superyachts visit, where we don’t have an AYSS affiliated superyacht agency. It’s all to come in 2022!
Tell us more about how the 2022 AYSS calendar is looking. Will we be seeing you attend any Superyacht Events this year?
At AYSS we are interested in not only growing our brand by sponsoring events but more importantly to have a physical presence at Boat Shows and Superyachts events around the globe. Networking in this industry is important! I am a firm believer in education – educating about what we do, where we are, the benefits for Captains and Superyachts when working with an AYSS affiliated member. But, also using our global network of agents to promote and educate about their destinations. As everyone in the yachting industry is aware, attending events has become more expensive and difficult due to travel restrictions. However, it remains in our 2022 plans to be present at several of the bigger boat shows in the US and Europe. I am also very keen to be present in other regions such as Asia, Australia, and perhaps the Middle East.
Following on from the success of the 30th anniversary of AYSS, is 2022 going to be even bigger?
We have plans that I cannot speak about at the moment yet, as we are still defining details. All of our members have seen one notable thing during the boat shows they have attended, i.e: Monaco, FLIBS, and Antigua Charter Yacht Show. This being that networking was very efficient as everyone missed the face-to-face meetings and contact. Therefore, we look forward to having more of our AYSS members attend 2022 yachting events. As well as, for our AGM in Monaco to be in an in-person event again this coming September.
Watch Now –
To find out more about membership of AYSS, please email admin@ayss.org, or to speak further with the new chairman, Carlos Miquel, email Chair@ayss.org
The Metaverse: Preparing Your Business For The Future
By now, you all would have heard of the metaverse, digital identities, and virtual worlds. But have you taken the time to dive deeper into how this will affect your business and the way you work?
A metaverse represents the real world in a virtual setting, so there is no doubt that it will open a world of opportunities for brands. For smaller businesses, it’s time to catch up with big brands. They’ve already begun creating virtual versions of their products for customers in the Metaverse. Virtual tours are already being used by real estate agents to help buyers visualize a property when they aren’t nearby, or something is preventing them from visiting the property in person. So now think of the potential for business in the Superyacht Industry… Yacht brokers will be able to offer virtual Superyachts for sale and retailers will sell virtual clothing.
Therefore, to succeed, your brand must prepare, which is why we are sharing our marketing knowledge with you.
What should you do to learn more about the Metaverse?
As of right now, there isn’t a lot that you can do to start building but there are communities where you can start learning.
1. Start researching about the Metaverse
2. Pay attention to the gaming community and even start playing video games. The younger Gen Z and Gen Alpha understand how their digital reality connects to their physical reality better than us.
3. Get onto Discord and join a server to give yourself the chance to listen and learn.
4. Begin researching Crypto and Nfts. Once you’ve learned, set up a meta mask wallet and even purchase an NFT if you’re feeling brave enough.
How should your Business start preparing for the Metaverse?
1. Consider your Target Audience
If your brand is aimed at a younger audience, you probably won’t have the luxury of avoiding the metaverse for much longer. Observe your consumers’ behaviors to better understand how quickly they’re transitioning into the metaverse
2. Keep an eye on your competitors
Follow brands/influencers that are related to the yachting industry to learn where they are with their digital presence.
3. Start to map ideas on how your brand can create a customer journey.
Your brand will still need a customer journey funnel to succeed in the metaverse. But, in web 3.0 you have the opportunity to let loose with your creativity, from acquisition to engagement, to the transaction, and eventually to customer support.
4. Pull together a strategy
Use your business’s current strategy, then, think of ways to improve your present interactions and experiences by utilizing the metaverse. Can the metaverse technologies create a positive association with your brand by connecting your target audience in new ways?
5. Experiment
Start small by entering the Metaverse at low risk, lost cost price – Host/attend a virtual event or partner with someone already in the space who you can use for guidance.
6. And if all of that is too much, think about hiring someone who understands the Metaverse
Think back to what companies did when the era of social media started to come about? The majority hired someone who was more clued up on the subject. The same applies to the Metaverse. It’s not a new thing that’s just appeared, it’s been in the works for years. And that means, there’s a tone of individuals out there with the skillset and knowledge that you need on your team.
So, how do you feel about your brand becoming a part of Web 3.0? Let us know over on our socials – Superyacht Content
Superyacht Chef Jamie Tullys Gourmet Valentines Day Menu 2022
Superyacht chef Jamie Tully and the owner of Culinary Genius Store has put together a complete guide to a gourmet Valentines Day menu
Can you tell us a little about yourself, your journey as a yacht crew, and the yacht you are currently onboard?
My name is Jamie Tully, I am from a small town in Wales UK called Builth Wells. I’ve been cooking since I can remember and I guess I follow the whole cliché, baking with my father and visiting my grandmother on a Sunday with a spread of homemade cakes and scones. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a chef, but I knew I wanted to be amongst the best. From culinary school, I became fully qualified, went through the ranks of some well-recognized hotels and restaurants in the UK.
Where did your yachting career as Superyacht Chef begin?
When I was 12, I visited Monaco with my family. I found myself extremely driven by the countries wealth, money, and vibrance. I remember seeing a chef step off a 50m yacht. That’s when I knew being a Superyacht chef is what I wanted to do. On the same holiday, I sat in the Café De Paris with my family and ordered ice cream. Ten years later, I sat at the exact same table and ordered the same exact ice cream, but this time I was on my day off from my work as a chef on a 50m yacht. It was a very proud and rewarding moment for me.
Being a chef onboard yachts makes me proud to have chosen this career path. My love for food and cooking has allowed me to travel around the world, seeing things and places most people will never get the chance to see. I have met people from all over the world that I now call friends. Cooked with the most exquisite seafood, the most expensive and sought-after ingredients on the planet. And not forgetting, worked on some of the most luxurious yachts, ski chalets, and villas in the world. I’m only 28 years old and I’m just getting started.
Which Yacht are you currently aboard?
I am currently employed as head chef on a 40m charter yacht. The yacht has recently gone through a complete refit and is about to be relaunched as part of an incredible brand. At this stage, I cannot disclose the vessel’s name. However, I can say that I’m extremely proud to be part of the refit and I’m looking forward to being part of its future. There are some really big things to come…
Planning the perfect gourmet Valentines Day menu
Planning menus for special occasions is something exciting, it’s something to celebrate. Valentine’s day in particular is great because it’s what’s romance without indulgence? The world of fine-dining sits perfectly with Valentines’ Day.
The following is an example of a gourmet Valentines day menu I would serve a couple onboard a yacht in 2022:
If you were to be taken out, what would your ideal Valentines’ meal look like?
If someone took me out for Valentines Day, I would definitely want to go to Nobu. I love all Asian flavors and techniques, so this is my favorite restaurant. My favorite dishes are the Miso cod and the Squid spaghetti – Simply delicious.
Lastly, 3 Superyacht Chefs who have inspired you throughout your career?
Many Superyacht chefs inspire me and I’m pretty lucky to be well connected in the industry via social media. If I had to choose 3 It would be Chef Danny Davies, Chef Dean Harrison, and Chef Andrew Lichaa– all of these guys cook and produce beautiful plates of food. They really sum up what being a yacht chef is all about.
M/Y A2 Successfully Relaunched Into The Wet Basin At Pendennis Shipyard
The world recognised shipyard reported on their socials earlier this week that Pendennis successfully relaunched M/Y A2 back into their wet basin.
The 42.35m vessel was originally known as ‘Masquerade of Sole’, but was renamed M/Y A2 after arriving at Pendennis in 2011 and being rebuilt in 2012. All three decks of the Superyacht were extended to 47m, along with a full-paint job that left the yacht looking modern. In regards to the interior, during the installation, the Pendennis team worked closely with the interior build experts, Peter Marino Architect (Remodel) to help exceed the owners’ expectations.
Upon completion of the rebuild, Captain A2 of M/Y A2 praised Pendennises services, saying:
“TO SAY THE LEAST THIS PROJECT WAS ENORMOUS AND OUR TIMESCALE LIMITED. THE WORK WAS CARRIED OUT IN A THOROUGH AND PROFESSIONAL MANNER. THE RESULTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES, WE HAVE A BEAUTIFUL YACHT” – CAPTAIN – A2
Image by Pendennis
Since then, M/Y A2 has visited the Pendennis Shipyard, in Falmouth three times. A2 has just undergone a four-month programme of works. This included a ten-year class survey, a complete hull repaint, and a number of interior/ engineering upgrades.
Current Specifications:
Overall length
47.0m (154’2″)
Beam
8.08m (26’6″)
Draught max.
2.41m (7’11”)
Gross tonnage
458
For more information on Pendennis Re-fit services, Click here.
Wanting to visit the centre of the Superyacht universe, but struggling to decide on where to visit in the UK? This can be a daunting prospect for many visiting the UK by Superyacht.
Where do I start?
There are a lot of things to think of when planning a trip to the UK and here are some of the most common worries;
Most Superyachts visiting the UK use an agent. This is purely because for most Captains it is an unfamiliar destination for a Superyacht. Add to this the fact that the country is so diverse and a little local knowledge goes a very long way.
MGMT is the only Superyacht specific agency covering the entire UK. It was set up by brothers Mark and Nigel Upton in 2009 and has grown every year since the London Olympics in 2012. They look after most of the Superyachts visiting the UK every year and do everything from berth bookings and provisions to itineraries, fuel, and chauffeurs.
Destinations
In the UK there are some real “must-see” places which are high on the list of all guests. But there are a lot of absolutely stunning places which a lot of people don’t know about.
London
The Capital of England and a great place to take a Superyacht. There are plenty of berth options available and having your yacht in the centre of such an iconic city is a must.
Credit- MGMT Instagram
Portsmouth
A great option as you make your way along the South Coast. Drop into Gunwharf Quays where you will be properly looked after by their team managed by Mark Collings.
Credit – Gunwharf Quay
Poole
Further west along the south coast and a popular marina for Superyachts, Poole Quay Boat Haven is another great option along your route. For larger yachts, the commercial port is a very clean and modern facility with a small tidal range which is always a bonus!
Credit – Visitsoutheastengland
The South West
There are a lot of stunning options in the South West, and we’re confident that once you’ve taken a look, you’ll know where to visit in the UK. Needless to say, Dartmouth is one of the great Superyacht destinations in this area followed by Falmouth and also the Scilly Isles, which is like the UK version of The Bahamas. One of the most beautiful and remote spots in England.
Credit: Peter Cumberlidge
The West Coast
Less commonly visited by Superyachts as the west coast tends to get missed out on the trip to either Ireland or en route to Scotland. This is not to say there aren’t some great places to visit. Superyachts have been to Bristol, Cardiff, and Liverpool on their way to or from Scotland. Each of these locations offers the perfect start-off point for some truly memorable inland excursions. Stonehenge, Bath, and Snowdonia are among these.
Credit – Matin Walley Photography
Scotland
Credit- Aberdeen Harbour Instagram
Usually either the start or endpoint for most Superyacht UK itineraries. Scotland never fails to disappoint as it offers such diverse options for a Superyacht visit. Scenery ranging from white sand beaches to towering cliffs, deserted Lochs to remote castles. But, not only the classic reasons to visit Scotland. There are lots of award winning restaurants, beautiful hotels, activities galore and of course Whisky!
The UK has it all. Literally!
Whether you start in London and finish in Scotland or Vice Versa this is a country so diverse many Superyachts are making return visits, even in the winter!
Following on from where to visit in the UK, expect to see more on the kind of support you can expect from the huge amount of companies based in the UK.
For inquiries about MGMT Intinerary services, click here or get in contact via info@mgmtyacht.com.
Q&A With Bannenberg & Rowell Designs, Dickie Bannenberg
Jon Bannenberg founded the modern yacht design business in the 1960s and sadly passed away in 2002. His passion for design was passed down to his son, Dickie Bannenberg who now manages Bannenberg & Rowell with his creative director Simon Rowell. We got the chance to catch up with Dickie, and discuss the Superyacht design company founded by his father:
Your father, Jon, was the founder of Jon Bannenberg DesignsLtd. Did your passion for yacht design come from him?
I guess I did get it from him, via osmosis. As a kid, I have strong memories of seeing my Dad come back from the studio and then be at his drawing board at home until late at night. He’d be working on big plans, all hand-drawn, with soft pencils, erasers, and stencils. I would often go to shipyards with him for launches. He’d have clients to dinner often ( not something that really happens these days ). His clothes would smell of aeroplanes.
What challenges have you faced following in such big footsteps?
They are big footsteps and I don’t try and follow them exactly – partly because they are impossible to follow (!) and also as I am not an out and out designer like my father. The Bannenberg name, of course, is a famous one in the yacht industry so it perhaps helps open some doors that were previously shut. But it’s also a lot to live up to.
What was the most memorable project delivered by your father?
Well, that’s like picking a favourite child and I think most people would agree he design dozens of groundbreaking yachts so I’m not going to pick one!
What unique challenges do you often face when designing a superyacht compared with designing a land residence?
There are many overlaps with land-based projects but, of course, some very particular requirements for yacht design and construction. Some are regulatory – regulations imposed by Classification Societies and the Flag States. Depending on the type of yacht, there can be weight restrictions. Above all, you are working within quite a restricted envelope – even on large yachts – in terms of the sheer number of systems and technical equipment that has to be incorporated. A deckhead void, for example, has to swallow a/c ducting, cable trays, insulation, fire control systems, and much more. That’s before the placement of light fittings, speakers, and many other items.
Bannenberg and Rowell Design has worked with some extremely reputable superyacht builders. Who do you most enjoy working with and why?
I am going to play the favourite child card again! What is true is that certain yards are a better match for different new build projects. It can be as fundamental as having the physical space to construct a project of, say, 80 metres. Or it could be a question of propulsion expertise. Then there is the contrast between semi-custom new builds and something completely bespoke. We’ve worked with almost all of the Northern European yards, leading Italian ones and others in the US, Spain, and Turkey.
Where and how do you get inspiration for your Bannenberg and Rowell designs?
We have a slightly magpie-like mindset, by which I mean scavenging ( sorry – drawing inspiration from ) worlds as diverse as architecture, car design, graphic design, contemporary culture, and elsewhere. Curious minds are encouraged in the studio.
How do you recruit for such a unique skillset when finding new design team members?
Our Bannenberg and Rowell team includes designers from hotel and residential backgrounds, a naval architect, an ex-ballet dancer, and a digital modeler from industrial design practice. By and large, everyone is involved in all the current studio projects. The team is adaptable, committed, and cares about presentation. Although design work is increasingly digital, hand-drawing skills are greatly valued and important. So – the recruitment recipe…..
What project are you most proud of to date?
Rather than choose the project of which we are most proud, I am going to highlight the 72m Feadship JOY, which was our first exterior of the “second Bannenberg era” if I may tag Bannenberg & Rowell like that. She was delivered in 2016, was a multi-award-winning yacht, and has a phenomenally successful record as a charter yacht.
Lastly, What has been the most challenging project for Bannenberg and Rowell to date?
