Rise in demand for Asia-Pacific charters

Organisers of The Singapore Yacht Show have announced that it believes the Asia-Pacific region, one which has become better established in the superyacht industry in recent years, has the potential to become a preferred chartering destination as charterers shift their focus from traditional cruising grounds in search of more exotic cruising destinations.

Clare Way, Singapore Yacht Show event manager, said: “Chartering a superyacht is becoming increasingly popular in this region." Singapore has seen the arrival of Westport's 40m Sea Bear and Sanlorenzo's 38.5m ONYX, both of which are due to operate private charters.



For Captain Vincent Lauro, who skippers the 40m motoryacht Monte Carlo, the Asia-Pacific region is certainly on the to-do list. “It is most definitely on our owner’s itinerary and dream list. I do agree that it is a new, up-and-coming destination for chartering. Many long time charter clients are looking for something new. The Caribbean is only so big and after years of chartering people have seen it all. I think Asia-Pacific has great potential to be the next big destination.

However, underlying concerns remain: “After discussing it with some other captains I do know that there are lots of kinks that need to be worked out on the regulation and government side of things before it is easy for yachts to cruise that region. As that part of the world becomes more accustomed to yachts I think it will become much easier and more accommodating to the big white boats.”



Y.CO charter broker Nick Heming agreed that the region is seeing increasing demand for charters: “Slowly but surely the Asia pacific basin is definitely picking up.  We have recently had owners in regions as diverse as  Vietnam , Myanmar, and Papua New Guinea and while Thailand, Langkawi and Malaysia remain a highlight of the region due to their proximity to Singapore there is  a wealth of undiscovered cruising that is attracting owners and charterers who are keen to explore.

“Recent charter enquiries also show that the region is popular with clients requesting Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines, as well Australasia. Certainly for any owner on a circumnavigation Singapore is a must-stop and a useful base to operate out of, offering a Hub International airport and the best chilli crab you can find.”

This rise in demand for charters in the Asia Pacific region follows recent news of an increasing superyacht presence in Asia, with this year already seeing the Ferretti Group’s acquisition by the SHIG-Weichai Group, as well as YPI Asia’s opening of three offices in the region.

Related Links

Singapore Yacht Show Website

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