Sacks Yachts Magazine

These days, nothing beats a "better than expected" consumer response at a boat show. That's how the pros at The Sacks Group Yachting Professionals summed up business at the 24th Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, which ran March 26-29 in West Palm Beach, Florida. TSGYP's Brokerage and Charter Marketing Divisions both reported strong consumer interest, resulting in several pending yacht sales and bookings for the coming summer season.

"I found the Palm Beach Boat Show energizing, especially after a so-so Yacht & Brokerage Show in Miami in February, and a below-average show last Fall in Fort Lauderdale," said Jennifer M. Saia, The Sacks Group Yachting Professionals President and Charter Specialist.

Paraiso
Curtis Stokes of TSYGP's Brokerage Division recently announced two exciting new megayacht listings, including the majestic 153-foot Feadship Paraiso. Designed by renowned naval architect Jon Bannenberg and built in 1983, this yacht underwent a complete refit in 2008. "Her styling is as fresh today as when she was built," said Stokes.

Paraiso has five luxuriously appointed en suite guest staterooms, including a main-deck owner's suite and a VIP stateroom on the lower deck. Lloyds-classed, she has a range of 2,500 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 11 knots. "She tops out at an amazing 21.5 knots," Stokes said. "It's hard to believe she is offered for only 5.9 million euros." 

Balkan 28
Stokes' other new listing is Balkan 28, a 28-meter (91'10') raised pilothouse motor yacht built in 1982 by Cantieri Di Pisa. She has an interesting history, having originally been owned by the then-Communist Republic of Bulgaria for its Chairman of the State Council. Her current owner recently moved her to Turkey for a complete overhaul from the keel up. "Balkan 28 is nearing completion with a lengthened hull, all-new machinery, electronics, audio/visual, interior furnishings and more," said Stokes. She is offered at $3.45 million. "The owner will consider all reasonable owner financing or leasing terms," he reported.

Monaliza
The Sacks Group Charter Marketing Division continues to offer exciting international charter vacations in keeping with its slogan, "Around The World in 80 Ways®". En route to the Med for the 2009 MYBA Charter Show in Genoa and a summer of cruising is the 142-foot Westship Monaliza.

Among her many amenities, Monaliza has elegant accommodations for 10 guests, including a master suite with Jacuzzi, Euro shower, his-and-her heads, and a 42-inch flat-screen TV. Her skylounge features a full bar and 50-inch flat-screen TV. The spacious sun deck also holds a bar and Jacuzzi. A 17-foot tender, fishing gear and two WaveRunners make for hours of fun in the sun. Monaliza's base rate is 100,000-110,000 euros per week, plus expenses.

Harmony
The 115-foot Crescent-built M/Y Harmony, which also will be featured at the MYBA Charter Show, is known for her vivacious crew who provide charter guests with an ultimate Med experience. Harmony sleeps 10 in four cabins, including an amidships master suite on the lower deck. Her many fine features include a spacious formal salon and dining area, complete with a 106-inch polished cherry and ebony dining table. Al fresco dining also is available on the aft deck. Harmony's weekly charter base rate starts at US $70,000, plus expenses.

Impulsive
Also Med-bound is the sporty 120-foot M/Y Impulsive, built in 1994 by Norship. This 32-knot beauty will take guests port-hopping along the Riviera with both speed and style.

Having just completed a major refit in 2008, Impulsive accommodates eight guests in four staterooms, including an amidships master suite with his-and-hers bath, large Jacuzzi tub, plasma TV and Bose surround-sound system. Her up-to-date amenities also include a pair of three-person PWCs, 32-foot and 17-foot tenders, and a roomy sundeck with full bar. She charters at a weekly base rate starting at US $85,000, plus expenses.

 "Impulsive currently is on the wait list for the MYBA Charter Show, and we anticipate she will be on display there," said Saia. "We take the fact that the show is oversubscribed as a good sign that we are in for a good summer charter season in the Med!"