Sun sets on another Superyacht Rendezvous

PHUKET: On December 18, the Asia Superyacht Rendezvous drew to a close with a grand VIP gala dinner hosted by Kata Rocks Resort, whose Hospitality Team took first place at the fun-filled Feadship Challenge model boat race the previous evening.

Yacht owners and the creme de la creme of Thailand gathered in opulent surroundings to celebrate luxury yachting over three fun-packed days, with the attendance of Phuket Vice Governor Kajornkiet Rakpanitmanee showing that the government is fully supporting the industry.

Guests were treated to sailing on a selection of fantastic sailing yachts which were all 25 meters or longer. The Rendezvous is special because it demonstrates a yacht in ‘charter mode’ – sailing serenely or anchored with guests being cared for by an attentive crew, in beautiful surroundings.

This year’s fleet consisted of three classical yachts.

S/Y Lady Thuraya, a 31m Lubbe & Voss Schooner, S/Y Aventure, a 29m classic wooden schooner cut, and S/Y Lamima, a 65m modern Indonesian Phinisi.

All of the attending yachts intend on applying for Phuket’s new charter licence when it is truly finalized.

The Rendezvous was complemented by two ultra-modern yachts – S/Y Bliss a 37m sleek carbon fiber sloop by Dubois and Kings Cup Winner Catamaran S/Y Arabella.

33-meter M/Y After 8, captained by Olly Wingate, whose owner was onboard, expressed sincere joy at his attendance and witnessing the sailing spectacle and festivities.

Event organizers Gordon Fernandes, Jojo Singhmanee and Business Development Manager Andrew Davies will once again bring the glittering yachting showcase to Phuket in 2016.

The Asia Superyacht Rendezvous is led by an innovative, creative, forward-thinking team with its finger on the pulse of the international luxury yacht industry and will help make Phuket South Asia’s primary luxury yacht hub. The new year heralds a great evolution for the Rendezvous.

— Andrew Davies