OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AND SHORT-NOTICE BOOKINGS OF OCEAN INDEPENDENCE
As the season kicks off, Ocean Independence’s charter consultants give an insight into the trends in the market.
Total freedom, and absolute privacy in a breathtaking setting – chartering a yacht represents the ultimate relaxation for many people. Whether with family, friends or just the two of you, whether in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean or Scandinavia – the possibilities for arranging such a trip are extremely diverse. And the yachts available also range from 20-metre sailing yachts to extremely luxurious and spacious 100-metre motor yachts.
Around a week on board
Ocean Independence is one of the world’s leading providers of mega yacht charters, booking between 600 and 700 charter transactions per year. The average duration of a charter trip booked with Ocean Independence is 7.5 days, for which – also on average – 135,000 euros are paid. With numerous bookings for the summer already in the spring, trends are already emerging for the 2023 charter season.
Antarctica and Amalfi
Barbara Müller, Senior Charter Consultant at Ocean Independence in Palma de Mallorca, for example, sees new destinations on the rise: “There is a growing trend to venture off the beaten track to remote and unspoilt destinations. More and more people are looking for pure luxury in the tranquillity of nature, and interest in regions further north such as Scandinavia and even Antarctica is on the rise.”
Of course, says Müller, the Mediterranean remains an absolute top destination. Three places in particular are in demand among her clients this year, she said. “Naples, the Amalfi Coast and Capri are particularly popular this year. The combination of comfort and romance makes them so special. Short trips between the islands save clients long journeys and make week-long charters possible.”
Plan and book early
Within the Corona pandemic, the demand for exclusive charter yachts has increased once again and has continued ever since -yachts are perceived as being particularly safe while offering luxurious accommodation. The overcrowding in some of the most sought-after charter destinations presents a challenge for Ocean Independence’s charter consultants to create an exclusive atmosphere for all guests. Hanneke Maljaars, Senior Charter Consultant at Ocean Independence, explains: “We plan very carefully in trying to secure anchorages and marinas in desired locations, keeping a close eye to overcrowding. Ultimately, the key is for clients to book their charter well in advance. This way, they guarantee smooth sailing for themselves, even in the most sought-after spots. The earlier you book, the better – especially for the high-demand destinations.”
Better choice
A trend that started a few years ago has picked up speed once again for the 2023 season. While in the past almost all charter trips were planned months in advance, last-minute enquiries are now part of the daily business for the charter consultants at Ocean Independence. Adelheid Chirco, Charter Director at Ocean Independence, sees this very realistically: “It is important to know that many clients have very busy lives. While some plan every detail well in advance, others simply have to wait for a gap in their busy schedule to book their charter. However, we always advise our clients to consider the benefits of booking early. They can choose their dream yacht and tailor their itinerary to their preferences, giving them the added luxury of personalisation, but of course this is not always possible.”
