In 2023, the magnificent 255-foot superyacht Malia was sold for an impressive $120 million, making it one of the most luxurious vessels in the world. However, if you wish to experience the opulence of this yacht, you can charter it for the hefty price of $930,000 per week. But as with many large yacht charters, additional surcharges for fuel, food, drinks, marina fees, onshore activities, and special requests can significantly increase the cost. Typically, these surcharges amount to approximately 35% of the base price. Moreover, cruising in Europe can attract a value-added tax of around 20% of the base fee, which may vary depending on the specific country. On top of that, crew gratuities usually range from 10% to 20% of the charter fee. Taking all these expenses into account, a week-long excursion cruising the French Riviera on Malia totals a staggering $1,441,500.
Guests on board the Malia are treated to breathtaking tours of the Mediterranean, from Monaco to the Italian Riviera, including stops at iconic French destinations such as Saint-Tropez. The yacht features eight spacious state rooms, accommodating up to 12 guests, with each room equipped with luxury ensuite bathrooms. According to Sacha Williams, the global charter marketing director at Northrop & Johnson, Malia’s broker, the bedrooms on the yacht resemble hotel rooms, providing a sense of luxury and comfort akin to staying in a floating hotel.
The interior of the yacht boasts a stylish saloon with a bar and dining area illuminated by full-length windows on the main deck. Additionally, there is an upper deck lounge adorned with a striking glass chandelier and an extensive audio-visual system. To enhance the guest experience, the decks are interconnected by an elevator. In line with modern trends in yachting, Malia features a gym and spa, complete with a massage room, sauna, and Turkish hammam bath. The onboard spa therapist offers a range of treatments, catering to various wellness needs, beyond just massages and facials. Williams highlights that wellness has become a significant focus on luxury yachts, with amenities like hammams, steam rooms, and saunas becoming increasingly popular among guests.
Extravagant Leisure Activities
Beyond the lavish accommodations and facilities, Malia offers a plethora of leisure activities to elevate the guest experience. The yacht is equipped with an infinity pool on the main deck and a glass-bottomed Jacuzzi on the sundeck, providing guests with opportunities to relax and enjoy the stunning views while onboard. For those seeking adventure, Malia features additional leisure vessels, including various tenders for onshore excursions and watersports activities. Guests can embark on deep-sea fishing trips on Malia’s extreme sportfishing tender or explore underwater depths in a shark-shaped submersible by Seabreacher.
Moreover, crew members onboard are proficient in teaching guests how to use motorized surfboards, explore with Seabobs, and indulge in towable joy rides. The yacht’s “toy” inventory also includes jet skis, water skis, paddleboards, wakeboards, kayaks, and an inflatable climbing frame with a walkway. Williams notes that the owner of Malia prioritizes fun and ensuring that every guest request is accommodated, resulting in a comprehensive selection of recreational options onboard.
A significant portion of the charter price contributes to the 21-member crew of Malia, comprising a captain, engineers, hospitality teams, and multiple chefs. Besides their primary roles, some crew members serve as personal trainers and entertainers, possessing musical skills to delight guests during evening gatherings. Williams emphasizes that crew members work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the safety and satisfaction of guests, with engineering teams and navigation experts diligently managing operations to make the experience seamless for guests.
Williams compares the crew members to swans, gracefully navigating the yacht and attending to guests’ needs with precision. Malia’s meticulously planned itineraries cater to guest preferences, considering sea conditions and weather forecasts. The flexibility to modify the schedule mid-charter demonstrates the personalized service offered onboard the yacht, allowing guests to extend stays at favorite locations or explore new destinations as desired.
Diverse Clientele and Celebratory Occasions
According to Williams, guests aboard Malia predominantly hail from North America, Europe, and the Middle East, often having amassed their wealth through specialized niches in business. She highlights the diverse backgrounds of guests, noting that individuals from seemingly ordinary professions have achieved remarkable success, enabling them to indulge in luxury experiences like chartering the Malia. It is common for the principal, who covers the charter costs, to host various groups onboard to celebrate special occasions like birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or family gatherings.
The superyacht Malia offers an unparalleled experience of luxury and indulgence to guests seeking opulent seafaring adventures. From its exquisite accommodations and amenities to a wide array of leisure activities and exceptional crew service, Malia sets a high standard for luxury yacht charters. The meticulous attention to detail, personalized itineraries, and dedication to guest satisfaction make Malia a coveted choice for affluent travelers looking to explore the Mediterranean in unparalleled style and comfort.