Rock the boat

You can look but you can't touch. That's the kind of image many of the yachts parked up at the 16th annual Dubai International Boat Show projected.

Yes, that's how exclusive many companies were, having a strict policy of “by invitation only'' to view the interior of their extravagant models at Dubai International Marine Club — Mina Seyahi.

Furthermore, some would offer a guide to serious and potential buyers only.

Understandable, actually, considering that some of the beauties lined up could cost millions of dirhams.

So, when I got an invite to the show (not to buy), which ends today, and entered a couple of luxurious yachts , I was quite impressed with all the latest technology and lavish design.

Most luxurious

The first company I visited called the Ferretti Group are known to be one of the world's most luxurious in the industry and I quickly found out why.

One of their clients generously offered his personal yacht to display during the exhibition.

Unfortunately, the price could not be disclosed — and we all know what that means.

The Custom Line 97 starts from 7 million euros (Dh40 million) with every yacht made differently and designed to meet the client's individual specifications.

Custom-made

With five cabins to accommodate up to 10 guests and a four-member crew, the 30-metre model looks like a floating hotel.

The master bedroom with en-suite bathroom is on a separate floor to give the host their own space.

Each and every material from the colour and type of wood to kitchen tiles and floor is a reflection of the customer's own taste.

The models are 100 per cent made in Italy which, says Federica Beneventi, who handles the PR and Advertising, ensures the finest quality and care.

“It is our first time here and it is important for us because this market has developed fast and the nautical culture here is of a high level,'' she says “People here obviously love and appreciate the product and it's great.''

To order a yacht from the group would take approximately eight months.

The technology behind it is advanced and includes the Naviop System.

I spent a few moments studying its functions. Beneventi touched the screen and showed me each part of the yacht and how she could command pretty much everything.

“If the owner calls the crew and says make the temperature cooler or make sure the doors are locked, it can be done from here for convenience,'' said Beneventi.

The Wheel House is where the captain sits and houses the navigation equipment, which of course is also advanced.

Dreams come true

As I made my way in and around other yachts, I came across the Rodriguez Group Middle East, another luxury yacht manufacturer.

I got the go-ahead to enter the beautifully decorated Arabian Tent to meet the managing partner, Dr Rainer Behne, who explained that his relationship with the group began when he used to be their dedicated client.

“One thing our customers know is that their dreams can come true. We are in the top three in the world and we are about speed and luxury interiors,'' said Behne.

The price of the yacht can cost anywhere between 4 million euros (Dh22.8 million) to 36 million euros (Dh206 million) with everything included.

The price just depends on the size.

“Whether you like to sleep wrapped in silk or pure cotton, in Dolce & Gabbana or Hermes just know that we will accommodate your every need,'' said Behne.

Taking care of clients

I went aboard The Mangusta 80' Hard Top and as with their other yachts, it is made in Italy with every detail made to exude luxury.

“I am a yacht owner myself and so I know how important it is to take care of our clients. Dubai is an important market for us, people love the sea and so the passion for yachts here will simply continue to grow,'' he said.

While spending a short while with the group, I noticed the number of people wanting to take appointments to have an exclusive interior peak.

They were serious enthusiasts and obviously ready to make a purchase.

Shopping for yachts

Ian and Jane Beaumont were Yacht Shopping at the show. The management consultant and his wife arrived with an open mind and more importantly — open budget!

“I have always been a yacht enthusiast and I haven't owned one for quite sometime,'' said Ian.

When asked as to how long it had been, Jane jokingly said — just a little over a year.

“He absolutely loves yachts so we are here to have a look and see what is on offer,'' she said.

The pair first arrived in the UAE in 1981 and left for a while then returned one month ago.

They obviously know what they want and that is a well-crafted
22-26ft American model with outbound acceptance to mainly use during the weekends.

Nuts and boats: A dummy's guide

Naviop System: This is an electronic touch-screen method of checking the status of everything on the yacht from lighting, AC and engine status.

Mast Light: For night time visibility.

Fly Bridge: Top level of the yacht used for manoeuvring in and out of the port.

Anti-rolling Gyro: Advanced technology used as a stabilising system to prevent the rocking motion for those who suffer from sea-sickness.

Beam: The mid yacht

Anchor: This is what's thrown into the water to make the ship come to a stop.

Bow: The front of a yacht.

Other useful terminology

Radar: Used to identify other ships or surface objects

Echo Sounder: Identifies objects under water

VH1 (Very High Frequency): Ch16 is the International Distress Channel

Radio Telephone 2182: For a distress call

Navtex: Receives navigation and meteorologist warnings

Chart Planner: This is used to guide the navigator onto the next point

Port side: That's always the left of the yacht

Fender: When placed at the side of the yacht, prevents damage