Each week, we place a spotlight on the world’s finest yachts for charter. This week, BOAT steps on board 50-metre La Pellegrina 1 in Greece to bask in her glorious sun-drenched interior and see what makes her such a fine charter yacht…
With a gleaming gold hull that glitters in the sun, it’s difficult to imagine that La Pellegrina 1 has been around for more than 10 years. Not a fleck out of place, nor a nick in the teak can be found on board as she sits in Nafplion harbour awaiting inspection from prospective brokers at the Mediterranean Yacht Show. This is partly due to good maintenance and partly due to her yard stint earlier this year that restored her to her former glory.
The charter yacht first hit the water in 2012 having been built by French shipyard Couach and is one of two 5000 Fly 2 models. Engineering-wise, the model was a great achievement for the yard and lists several impressive capabilities, including the ability to cross the Atlantic in 10 days, a top speed of 28 knots and a range of 4,000 nautical miles.
Drawing on the advantages of composite construction – being light, easy to handle, fast and sturdy – Couach demonstrated an advanced approach to the construction of a 50-metre, proudly denoting La Pellegrina 1 as their flagship model.
Now 12 years down the line, those engineering credentials continue to shine though, making her a fine luxury charter yacht predominately cruising in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Key Features
LOA: 50m
Builder: Couach
Year: 2012 (2024)
Guests: 12
Crew: 10
Cruising: Albania, Cyclades, Cyprus, Ionian Greece, Turkey
Stepping on board, La Pellegrina 1’s golden hull is echoed in the golden hue that runs through the yacht, mainly due to sunlight that streams through the vast windows and bounces off the lacquered wooden ceiling panels in the main saloon. The space is open-plan with three cream sofas placed neatly in the saloon and a large dining table at the end.
Technology is noticeably absent (or hidden) from the space and replaced by an impressive collection of artwork that adds colour to the walls. Sculptures also take pride of place in the various alcoves of the saloon, while white lacquered surfaces continue to reflect light around the space.
Jean-Pierre Fantini is responsible for this light and airy styling, which takes full advantage of the floor-to-ceiling windows that span the entirety of the main saloon.
Accommodation on board is for 12 across six cabins, each with its own entertainment centres and similar styling to the rest of the yacht, with light-toned wood, white lacquered surfaces, and steel inlays, polished to a mirror shine. The master cabin is located on the bridge deck and has a private deck and gym equipment, should charter guests wish to keep up with the fitness regime. There is also a large VIP cabin on the main deck forward, benefitting from large panoramic windows with 180-degree views.
Out on deck, there is a noticeable shift to a slightly cooler colour scheme in a juxtaposition to the sun beating down on deck. Light grey dining chairs and a sofa are placed on the main deck aft (which can be sheltered), while the bar is finished with black lacquer.
On the sundeck, a Jacuzzi blends in with the design having been disguised with teak surrounds and grey sun loungers. Up here there is another dining table – also sheltered – and sofas forward for more space to relax on deck.
Life on board La Pellegrina 1
Light and breezy in design, the yacht has a spot to relax around almost every corner. As guests step aboard, they will be greeted with a refreshing champagne cocktail (or simply a glass of champagne), before heading to the table for lunch. A fine choice for family charters, the open-plan arrangement and floor-to-ceiling windows offer a connection to the water while remaining inside.
On the dining table, plumes of pampas grass are arranged with orange flowers, while the menus are rolled up like scrolls above the 12 plates that are laid out. Lunch is served – a delicate salad of grilled mushrooms with truffle cream and roasted hazelnuts and a perfectly cooked fillet steak with carrot purée and fondant potatoes.
With several bars on board, the rest of the day can be spent out on the sundeck sipping on spicy margaritas watching the rocky shores of Zakynthos passing by. With a toy box brimming with action, those seeking some adrenaline thrills can frolic in the waves on board one of La Pellegrina 1’s jet skis.
La Pellegrina 1’s toybox, to mention a few:
- Jet skis
- SUPs
- Sea bobs
- Water skis
Where will La Pellegrina 1 be cruising this summer?
La Pellegerina 1 is available for charter with Camper and Nicholsons for a weekly rate from €180,000. She will be cruising in the Eastern Mediterranean with options to cruise in Albania, Cyclades, Cyprus, Ionian Greece and Turkey.
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