Fresh out of the yard after a host of mind-bending modifications, BOAT International tracks down the best yachts for charter that have resurfaced after extensive refits. Be it new interiors, gyms, pools or a complete overhaul, these vessels have been given a new lease of life and are primed to accommodate guests this season.
Marala
Stats: 59m, Camper and Nicholsons, 1931 (2022), 12 guests, 18 crew
Highlights: Perhaps one of the most ambitious refits of late, the 59-metre classic motor yacht, Marala emerged from Pendennis in 2022, following a two-year rebuild. Originally built in steel by Camper and Nicholsons' shipyard in 1931, Marala has undergone several modifications in her lifetime, including a conversion for naval service during the Second World War, as well as sailing beneath names such as Gaviota, Zapala and Evadne. The top-to-toe work in 2022 saw her revived and transformed into a sensational modern superyacht that emanates 1930s charm – so much so that the 59-metre was the winner of the Rebuilt category at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards.
Today, Marala has soft art-deco interiors with wood panelling, brass hardware (many of which are original) and light upholstery. She has five doubles and one twin guest cabin for 12 in total, and large guest spaces.
Marala is available to charter with Ocean Independence with a weekly rate from €220,000.
Hana
Stats: 42.6m, CRN, 2008 (2023), 11 guests, 10 crew
Highlights: Having resurfaced earlier this year after a hefty refit, this 2008 CRN has been launched into the future with a new contemporary interior. Now colourful and bright, Hana’s living spaces are a delightful example of how adding colour can bring a yacht to life. Accommodation on board is for 11 guests across five cabins including a full-beam master that has its own balcony and adjoining study. Thanks to her large interior volume, Hana has two saloons with a formal dining space on the main deck. On the bridge deck aft, there is an al fresco dining space in a large circular table that can comfortably seat up to 11 guests.
Out on deck, Hana’s large sundeck extends over more than half of her LOA and has a Jacuzzi, sun pads, BBQ facilities and a wet bar. All furniture on the deck is modular, making Hana the perfect venue for parties and events due to her versatility. She also has a fully equipped gym on the main deck with direct access to the swim platform via sliding doors.
Hana is available to charter with Camper and Nicholsons with a weekly rate from €150,000.
Sounion II
Stats: 31.6m, Benetti, 1969 (2023), 10 guests, 6 crew
Highlights: Embodying the timeless style of a canoe-sterned classic while offering charter guests all the comfort and amenities associated with a modern superyacht, Sounion II emerged on the charter market this season with a brand-new interior. Now with honey-coloured wood panelling, crisp white upholstery and accented by bursts of turquoise, the result is contemporary and fresh with an open plan arrangement. Accommodation on board is for 10 guests across four cabins including the master stateroom on the upper deck, which enjoys direct access to an aft exterior lounge. There is also a second master cabin positioned forward on the lower deck and VIP double and a twin cabin, to aft on the lower deck.
Her exterior spaces also saw something of an upgrade with extended sun pads and an al fresco dining space that is said to replicate the style of a coastal hotel. Sounion II also carries an impressive array of water toys that will keep the whole family entertained, including two Seabobs, stand-up paddleboards, water ski and wakeboard equipment, snorkelling sets and various inflatables.
Sounion II is available to charter with Hill Robinson with a weekly rate from €48,000.
Force Blue
Stats: 70.6m, Royal Denship, 2002 (2022), 12 guests, 21 crew
Highlights: Hot on the heels of a 2022 refit, Force Blue is considered something of a masterpiece on the charter market. Capable of hosting up to 60 seated guests and over 300 guests quayside, this 70.6-metre is the perfect high-volume yacht for entertaining. The bridge deck on the Royal Denship is complete with a cocktail bar, professional DJ station and disco lighting – a setup designed for partying the night away.
Her recent refit has presented her in pristine condition and a great choice for charter guests looking for wellness on the water. She has one of the largest spa complexes of any yacht afloat, and her recently rebuilt and extended stern has left her with a mammoth swim platform and sunbathing area that offers easy access to the sea.
Force Blue is available to charter with Fraser with a weekly rate from €360,000.
Maltese Falcon
Stats: 88m, Perini Navi, 2006 (2023), 12 guests, 18 crew
Highlights: Maltese Falcon single-handedly transformed the superyacht industry after her delivery in 2006. A head-turner in any scenario, the 88-metre took six years to complete, due to the complexity of her radical unstayed masts made of "weapons-grade" carbon fibre and her computerised sail and mast control system.
Now her extensive refit by Italian yard Lusben, the refit division of Azimut-Benetti, has revived her back to one of the coolest superyachts on the water. The work included several major structural modifications, including a new steel-structured aft awning running from the superstructure to the stern sofa. A force to be reckoned with on the water, few yachts have such a presence in the industry, making the Maltese Falcon a fabulous charter yacht.
Maltese Falcon is available to charter with Burgess with a weekly rate from $490,000.
Nuri
Stats: 40.5m, Cantieri delle Marche, 2021 (2023), 12 guests, 9 crew
Highlights: Originally delivered in 2021 as RJ, Nuri, which means “world” in Korean, is the only model in Cantiere delle Marche’s RJ130 series and was designed to be “a modern spin on the explorer vessel”. Only a couple of years after her delivery, Nuri has undergone a series of cosmetic modifications that position her as a wonderful charter yacht. The work, which took place at Pendennis' Spain site, included a brand-new Jacuzzi on the sundeck as well as an interior refresh, which is now furnished with lacquered, dark-wood wall panelling and leather-upholstered furniture in light brown and tan tones. There are vivid, characterful details found in the main saloon, including chequerboard-style storage and wall alcoves.
Accommodation on board is for up to 12 guests across five cabins, plus space for nine crew. This includes the main deck master cabin, fitted with a king-sized bed, daybed, walk-through wardrobe and ensuite bathroom.
Nuri is available to charter with Y.CO with a weekly rate from €200,000.