A Beginner’s Guide To Chartering Or Buying Your First Superyacht

With its crystal-clear waters, year-round tropical climate, secluded islets, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant marine life, the Southeast Asia (SEA) region has rightfully earned its reputation as a favoured destination for mega and superyacht aficionados. The SEA market has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, attracting buyers and charterers for everything from sleek superyachts to intricate megayachts, thanks to the region’s offering of thrilling and unique adventures.A superyacht experience in Phuket or Southeast Asia is a unique opportunity, with the area’s rich cultural diversity, stunning views, and superior sailing conditions making for a one-of-a-kind experience.

If you’re considering buying or chartering a yacht for the first time in Southeast Asia, there are various essential factors and insights to consider to ensure the process is as seamless as possible.

Tips On Buying & Renting Superyachts

Superyacht brokerage in Asia

The buying or renting process and experience can be as complex as it is exciting. To get you started, here are some detailed tips:

Understanding the Market

  • Research Destinations: Southeast Asia is vast and varied. Do you prefer the secluded beaches of the Andaman Islands or the charismatic city charms of Singapore? It is essential to understand which destination speaks to your needs more and whether the rules and regulations fit your profile well.
  • Yacht Type and Size: Decide on the type and size of yacht required based on your needs. Superyachts come in various forms, including motor and sailing yachts, each offering different experiences. The size of the yacht will also determine where you can go, as some areas have limitations on yacht size due to marina capacities or shallow waters​​.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

  • Registration and Taxes: Yacht registration and taxes can vary significantly from one country to another within Southeast Asia. Understanding the tax implications in your country of registration and the countries you plan to visit is crucial​​.
  • Crewing Requirements: Depending on the size of the yacht and the regions you intend to explore, specific crewing requirements or qualifications may be needed. Some countries also have regulations about hiring local crew​​. For instance, a superyacht charter in Thailand might need a certain percentage of the crew to be Thai nationals, ensuring compliance with local employment laws.
  • Insurance: Adequate insurance is essential for both the yacht and the crew. Ensure you have comprehensive coverage valid in all the countries you plan to visit​​.

Operational Considerations

  • Marina and Berthing Facilities: The availability of marina and berthing facilities varies widely across Southeast Asia. Research the facilities available in your intended destinations, including the services they offer, to ensure they meet your needs​​. For instance, Singapore offers world-class marinas like ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, providing excellent facilities for superyachts, including repair services, upscale dining, and leisure amenities.
  • Maintenance and Repairs: Access to maintenance and repair facilities should also be a consideration, especially for longer journeys or in more remote destinations. Some regions may have limited access to parts and specialised services​​.

Financial Considerations

  • Budgeting: Beyond the purchase or charter cost, consider the ongoing expenses of yacht ownership or charter, including crew salaries, maintenance, fuel, and berthing fees. For example, chartering a superyacht in Southeast Asia can vary widely, from $100,000 to over $500,000 per week, not including expenses like fuel, provisioning, and crew tips.
  • Charter Income: If you’re buying a yacht, consider whether you intend to charter it out when you’re not using it. This can offset some costs but also involves additional considerations like marketing and management​​.

Personal Preferences and Needs

  • Itineraries and Activities: Your interests will significantly influence where you want to go and what yacht you choose. Whether you’re interested in diving, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing in secluded bays, ensure the yacht and your itinerary can accommodate these activities​​​​. For instance, diving enthusiasts might choose a yacht equipped with a dive centre to explore world-class diving sites around Phuket.
  • Amenities and Comfort: The level of luxury and the amenities you desire will also play a significant role in selecting a yacht. Your preferences will impact your choice – whether you want an onboard cinema, jacuzzis, or water sports equipment​​.
  • Environmental Considerations: Eco-conscious yachting is becoming increasingly important. Considering yachts with hybrid propulsion systems can minimise your ecological footprint while cruising delicate ecosystems.

Interior of a superyacht for sale in Thailand

A spa and massage room on a superyacht

Boat Lagoon Yachting For All Your Superyacht Dreams

Guests enjoying a superyacht charter in Phuket

Understanding all the nuances of buying or chartering a superyacht can be a tall order for those new to the scene. A practical approach to navigating these complexities is partnering with a top-tier yacht brokerage in Southeast Asia, such as Boat Lagoon Yachting, renowned for simplifying the process for novices.

At Boat Lagoon Yachting, we’re all about connecting you with the luxury lifestyle on the water, offering a fleet of the best new and pre-loved yachts across Southeast Asia. With locations in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Maldives, and Thailand, we’re your go-to for top-notch yacht selection, comprehensive services, and unforgettable charters.

Our lineup includes prestigious brands like Burgess, ranging from sleek runabout inflatables to majestic superyachts. No matter your nautical ambition, we have the perfect vessel for your next adventure, with a friendly team ready to guide you every step of the way from start to finish.

Thinking of making your yacht work for you? Our charter services offer a smart investment path. Let us manage the nitty-gritty of chartering, from maintenance costs to operational tasks, so you can enjoy the perks without the workload.

Choose A Burgess For Your Next Adventure

A Burgess superyacht in Singapore

Our expertise isn’t just in sales; as Burgess’s exclusive partner in Thailand, we bring 27 years of unmatched experience in yacht and superyacht sales, charters, and after-sales services in Phuket, Singapore, and beyond. Whether it’s a high-octane superyacht or a timeless classic you seek, explore Burgess’s exquisite fleet at Boat Lagoon Yachting. Currently, we have the Wanderlust and Starlust series from Burgess operating charters in the waters of Phuket and the Maldives.

The Wanderlust, an 85.3m Sports Activity Vessel, offers a beautiful blend of performance, luxury, and efficiency. Designed for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, Wanderlust cruises at 17 knots with a top speed of 23 knots, thanks to its hydrodynamic design and advanced propulsion. Its standout feature, The Loft, is a winter garden that transforms into an open-air terrace. Accommodating up to 12 guests in eight suites, she features a sun deck with a glass-fronted jacuzzi and a secluded outdoor dining area. Charter rates start at USD 960,000 per week.

Wanderlust superyacht

Interior of the Starlust superyacht

Starlust, a 68.2m modern motor yacht, combines luxury with entertainment, featuring a spacious interior and extensive deck spaces. The main lounge, ideal for relaxation, includes a large TV and a separate dining area for formal meals. She boasts a dedicated spa with a relaxation area, massage room, and steam room alongside a beach club gym for fitness enthusiasts. The beach club also serves as a hub for various water sports, making her the perfect company for the more adventurous. Starlust can accommodate up to 12 guests in 6 cabins, with charter rates beginning at EUR 700,000 per week.

The Starlust series from Burgess

The bedroom inside the Starlust superyacht

Working space on a superyacht

If you are craving a detour and want to explore beyond Southeast Asia, explore Australia this Easter or French Polynesia in July and August aboard the 52m Amels yacht, Deja Too. For unmatched luxury and adventures on the water, Deja Too offers elegant modern interiors, an array of water toys, and a crew renowned for their exceptional service. Fresh from a 2022 refit, she is now brand new and ready to be taken on adventures. Managed by an experienced owner, she guarantees a top-tier charter experience and can host up to 11 to 12 guests in 6 cabins. Captains Richard and Charles, along with their dedicated crew, are ready to ensure a memorable journey. Charter rates start at USD 245,000 per week. Contact us today for more enquiries.

Superyacht for sale in Asia

Luxury interiors of a superyacht for sale in Thailand

Vrit Yongsakul, now Burgess’s Chief Representative for Thailand and Group Managing Director of Boat Lagoon Yachting, highlights the collaboration between both entities, aiming to leverage Burgess’s global expertise for the Thai market to foster the potential in Southeast Asia’s large yacht sector. He envisions continuing to offer clients top-tier expertise and advice through this partnership. Additionally, for prospects in Singapore, Alister Brunskill, our Singapore Country Head, is your man on the ground, ready to turn your yachting dreams into reality.

Contact Us Today

Ready to start your yachting adventure? Let’s make your dream charter or purchase come true. Our experienced team is on standby to offer the guidance you need.

Email us at info@boatlagoonyachting.com or sign up for our newsletter for the latest updates in the industry. Bon voyage!