This post was written by Sarah Rees

WHILE MANY OF US ADMIRE AND LUST AFTER YACHTS FROM THE PRISON OF DRY LAND, PURCHASING A YACHT OF YOUR OWN IS NOT AS DIFFICULT AN EXPERIENCE AS MANY MAY IMAGINE. SARAH REES GETS TEMPTED BY A LIFE ON THE OCEAN WAVES.

Ever since man discovered that land gave way to water, the lure of taking to the sea has been overwhelming. While the days of intrepid explorations may be long gone, the call of the ocean has not waned, and cruising the waves remains an experience unparalleled, and one that brings pleasure to almost all.

Yachts have become the pinnacle of the luxury boating experience, and anyone who strays to the coast will undoubtedly have noticed that the yachting industry is beginning to blossom in Malaysia. And why not? The islands and the waters around this area are some of the most beautiful in the world, and as the gems of Redang, Tioman, and Pangkor Laut get increasingly popular with tourists, cruising the waters and weighing anchor off-shore is a way to enjoy the islands’ charms in seclusion and privacy.

YACHTING FOR ALL

The increasing number of yacht charter companies has encouraged the curious and tentative to “test run” a sea vessel, but nothing beats the experience of owning a yacht of your own; being your own master, and able to escape to wherever your heart desires when life on the land becomes too wearisome.

“There are so many joys to owning a yacht,” says Paul Whelan, the General Manager of Simpson Marine (SEA), Asia’s leading yacht dealer and broker. As a man who has dedicated his life to the boating industry, starting his career as a boat builder, he has seen many lives greatly enhanced through the purchase of a yacht. “A day or a long weekend spent on a boat is an amazing way to relax and unwind.”

While this may be easily imaginable, what seems less possible for many of us is the reality of owning a yacht, and Paul finds that many people are put off by assuming that yachts are only for the super-elite. “Buying a yacht doesn’t need to be about owning the largest or flashiest boat in the marina,” he assures. “The correct boat for your needs and budget, bought through the right company, can be the most rewarding and addictive purchase you will ever make.”

A company like Simpson Marine has sold boats for as little as US$16,000, while a brand new 28-foot boat can start at US$100,000. Whatever the price tag, the value reaped and the rewards gained from owning a yacht cannot be quantified.

TAKING THE PLUNGE

Simon Theseira, a Senior Yacht Broker with Simpson Marine, is well-experienced in meeting first-time buyers and making the process pain-free. “My advice has always been, ‘Know what you enjoy and we will do the rest’,” says Simon. Having started his career as a deckhand for a Penang-based company selling boats, Simon was swiftly attracted to working in sales, and has, over the years, advised and assisted hundreds of people in their journey from dry land to the ocean waves.

The first decision is whether to buy a pre-owned or a new yacht, and the price-conscious will often opt for the former option. This is a smart move if the owner doesn’t mind getting involved with the upkeep of the yacht; “if the client is hands-on and isn’t bothered about doing small works on the yacht, I will always encourage a brokerage yacht,” says Simon. For those who seek minimum hassle, however, a new yacht is the way to go.

A broker like Simon is assigned by Simpson Marine to guide the would-beowner through the process, and before looking at a single potential vessel, the purpose of purchase must be established. “The most important thing is for the owner to know what they want to do on the yacht,” explains Simon. “We can handle the rest.” Buyers who are keen to use their yachts for entertaining business clients generally opt for sail boats like a luxury catamaran, while those who use their yachts only for personal pleasure might prefer a power boat or mono hull sail boat.

Once the purpose has been established, Simon will formulate examples of various sizes, designs, and prices for final selection, and then handle every stage of purchase, from payment to delivery. Fear not; owners are not abandoned once the yacht arrives! Simpson Marine offers post-purchase support and care, assisting with the hiring of a crew and the management of the yacht, and advising on all matters of ownership.

SHIP MATES

Hiring a captain, and possible a crew, is a wise move for those with limited experience of boats and who don’t fancy spending large amounts of time on maintenance. Most Asian owners hire a captain to manage the boat on their behalf, and the captain is then responsible for cleaning and maintaining the interior and exterior of the boat, as well as keeping a log book of all works done and trips made.

The captain can also help with scheduling trips and planning routes when you get the urge to cruise on the ocean, and they will even ensure that supplies are on board to keep you satiated throughout the pleasurable pursuit.

And what a pleasure it can be! Once the yacht is yours at the speed of a phone call, the region opens up to you, and life will change in more ways than you can possibly imagine. For escaping the stress of work, a weekend lazing around the islands of Langkawi with a drink in hand is unbeatable, while special occasions can be celebrated in an on-board soiree with your closest friends and families toasting the stars and sharing an unforgettable evening. Children adore being on the water too, enjoying the chance for adventure, and it is a great way to introduce youngsters to the sea and its creatures, that could nurture a lifetime of love for sailing vessels or marine life.

“For me,” concludes Paul, “the biggest joy of owning a yacht is to be able to jump onboard and cruise to another destination as and when I like.” The freedom afforded by a boat is unmatched and offers, in this increasingly frantic and connected world, a true taste of solitude.

Don’t be daunted by the prospect; take the leap and open up the world.

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Source: Senses of Malaysia Nov-Dec 2012

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