Each week, we place a spotlight on the world’s finest yachts for charter. This week, BOAT delves into the details of Benetti's 60-metre world cruiser Formosa: the superyacht that's successfully completed multiple world tours and is equipped with a double sundeck set-up.
The Letter of Intent for the new order of Formosa was signed the day after the Hainan boat show in 2014 and, in the space of just 30 days, the technical specs were modified and rewritten, the General Arrangement substantially changed and interior styling decided. At the time of the deal being signed, Fraser's Jan-Jaap Minnema said: "This all in just over 30 days. It is typical for the Asian style of business: extremely efficient and fast!".
Built in 2015 by the Italian shipyard, Formosa is well-equipped for cruising through warmer waters off the beaten track and is a "fusion of oriental taste and Italian craftsmanship", according to her central agency for charter, Fraser. The well-seasoned traveller boasts an impressive track record, covering waters as far as French Polynesia, Fiji, Australia, Japan, Thailand, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Key Features
LOA: 60m
Builder: Benetti
Guests: 12
Crew: 15
Year: 2015
Charter management: Fraser
Summer cruising: Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda
Formosa's timeless lines are designed with versatile exterior decks and complement the spacious interior by Dutch firm Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design. Typified by earthy tones that are easy on the eye, the interior features bespoke art to exude a warm, cosy and relaxing ambience on board the yacht. Handmade, textured artwork lines the walls of the decks – including the prehistoric wooden columns at the entrance of the main saloon, which were turned into stone to demonstrate the "natural and eternal at the same time".
As per the request of its commissioning owner, the superyacht is abundant in natural light thanks to large windows – meaning when at anchor, guests will wake up and immediately be greeted with sea views.
Life on board Formosa
Complete with not one but two sundecks, the superyacht is rich in secluded spaces and al fresco lounges with optional shading. One of the sundecks features a large whirlpool with a countercurrent machine, perfect for a morning swim. While younger charter guests can zip down the inflatable slide leading off the sundeck, adults can grab the chief stew's signature Formosa Margarita cocktail from the bar.
As the yacht is known to charter in humid settings, the sundeck offers the ultimate setting for sunbathing on relaxed sofa seating and sun loungers, while the spa facilities and awning provide relief from the heat. For those who like to party, a sound system in the railings enhances the fun on board.
Up top, glass railings on the observation deck guarantee unimpeded views for catching sunrises and sunsets in complete privacy, or gym equipment can be set up for a scenic workout.
A rarity on yachts this size, Formosa boasts a completely private owner's deck featuring a master study which can be closed off on either side and used for conference calling. The suite itself is a beautiful space that benefits from panoramic views and natural light. A television comes out of the ceiling should charter guests wish to watch TV here, while sliding doors lead to a private owner's deck – a concealed spot for a morning coffee.
Also on the upper deck is the full-beam master saloon, which can convert into a comfortable private cinema room. Disguised behind the artwork, the screen is perfect for cosy cinema nights, where crew entry means guests can be served without disturbing the film. Aft of this is al fresco dining with a Lazy Susan and the option for enclosed and air-conditioned dining – a place where the crew are partial to throwing a themed night.
Meanwhile, the main saloon is split into several smaller spaces for guests to branch off as they please, which leads to the formal dining room. A grand chandelier takes centre stage over the table, while a forest-style artwork matches nature artwork seen in the lobby, where an elevator serves all the guest areas.
Forward of this, two spacious VIP cabins mirror one another on the main deck with queen-size berths, one of which is fitted with a wooden bathtub which has been tailor-made for the boat. A small lobby sits between the two cabins and offers guests a private space to be alone for a minute, whether it be as a games room or a conference space.
Toybox , to mention a few:
- Jet skis
- Diving gears
- Large selection of inflatables (including an inflatable slide on the sun deck)
- 24-metre Sport Fisher (with 3 crew onboard) can be chartered at an extra rate
- 11.8-metre Chase boat Contender 39ST available for your needs
Located in the transom, the beach club is bursting with water toys and encompasses everything from jet skis through to diving gears and a large selection of inflatables. Diving equipment is available for unlimited underwater adventures with a dedicated professional on board, and the beach club can be converted for guests to enjoy a quiet massage moment at the water's edge.
Where will Formosa be cruising?
Formosa is chartering with Fraser in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda for a weekly rate starting at $400,000. For inspiration and charter itineraries, you can browse a sample superyacht itinerary from Tahiti to Bora Bora.
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