THE GENOA BOAT SHOW
The Genoa Charter Yacht Show showcases to the industry a collection of the best yachts available for discerning charter clientele. Returning from the largest Mediterranean charter yacht show, I’m still buzzing with excitement over the impressive array of luxury yachts that graced the event. The show featured everything from sleek 80-foot motor yachts to awe-inspiring 280-foot mega yachts. There was something for everyone at the Genoa Yacht Show, whether you’re a fan of motor yachts, sailing yachts, or even the occasional catamaran.
One standout at the Genoa Yacht show was the 179′ Trinity Motor Yacht Purpose, a vessel embarking on an ambitious five-year journey around the world, offering charter opportunities at various exotic ports. The crew’s impeccable service, from beautifully curated tablescapes to exquisite six-course tasting menus, showcased the yacht in all its glory. Another favorite was luxury yacht Malia, a 254-foot masterpiece from Golden Yachts. Recently awarded the Best Yacht Interiors over 40 meters in 2024, Malia is a beacon of luxury, boasting an intricate design that blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows and over 250 unique finishes, including precious stones and detailed woodwork.
King Benji, a 153′ custom-built motor yacht from Dunya Shipyards, also turned heads with its unique interior design. The yacht combines elements from Bali and Santa Barbara, with vibrant murals and bright bedding, setting a new standard for luxury in exploration yachts. Unlike the traditional white yacht, King Benji exudes an edgy, functional vibe while still offering all the luxury amenities one could desire.
For those looking for a more intimate experience, the classic Sunseeker South is an 80-foot yacht perfect for cruising the Amalfi Coast or Sicily. Sleek and sexy, this 108-foot Ferretti Custom Line yacht, built in 2020, offers true sophistication, stability, and seaworthiness. With accommodations for up to 11 guests, her Italian captain and crew ensure that you experience the Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, and Sicily in their finest light.
Worth Avenue Yachts also had the pleasure of showcasing the 2021 Riva Kar, an 88-foot yacht that is as fast as it is sleek, making it perfect for navigating shallow areas.
And then there was Derecktor yacht Aquila, a 280-foot marvel with seven staterooms. The yacht’s interior is nothing short of breathtaking, featuring custom glasswork by Czech designers, including an 11-meter waterfall chandelier made of hand-blown glass. The owner’s fondness for the glamorous London Bar led to the creation of a replica in the sky lounge, where the bar is adorned with compressed and glazed tobacco leaves trimmed with cracked duck eggs—a true testament to luxurious design.
A Sicilian Sojourn: Taormina and Beyond
After the excitement of the Genoa Boat Show, I had the pleasure of spending time in the enchanting town of Taormina, Sicily. This iconic, historical village is perched high on the rocks of southern Italy, offering stunning views of Mount Etna—Europe’s highest and most active volcano.
Taormina
Taormina is a charming blend of ancient Greek theaters, winding hillside shopping streets, and breathtaking vistas. The town is a vibrant mix of colorful boutiques, traditional Sicilian trattorias, and luxury Michelin-starred restaurants, including the Four Seasons, where the second season of the popular TV series White Lotus was filmed.
One of the highlights of my visit was a boat tour around the Bay of Gardini Naxos, where we explored various caves, rock formations, and the beautiful peninsula of Isola Bella. We also ventured up Mount Etna, an experience that is not to be missed. Hiring a driver to take you to the summit, where you then transfer into a rugged vehicle designed to navigate the lava and snow, is an adventure in itself. The views are spectacular, and the sense of being on top of an active volcano is truly otherworldly.
Our descent brought us to the Palmento Costanzo vineyard, located in the heart of the Etna Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vineyard offers private wine tastings, lunches, and tours that delve into the unique combination of lava and soil that gives Sicilian wine its distinctive flavor.
For those planning a charter in the Mediterranean, Taormina and the Aeolian Islands should be on your bucket list. Whether you have a short time for a land excursion or can spend a few days exploring, hiring a guide to show you the history and a driver to take you up Mount Etna will make your visit unforgettable. The Sicilian people are warm, welcoming, and always eager to help you discover the beauty of their island.
I look forward to discussing your next charter adventure in Sicily and the surrounding areas. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.