Charter Booms As World Reopens

As the world reopens, and pandemic-related travel restrictions continue to be lifted, the charter market is booming. With increased freedom to cross borders, charter bookings for visitors to Asia are in high demand. And the Simpson Yacht Charter division is more than equipped to meet this demand – with a huge charter fleet, our clients are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where and what to charter.

Charter Grows in Popularity

“There has been unprecedented increase in domestic charters,” says Nick Longstaff, Charter Sales Manager – Simpson Yacht Charter. “Traditionally Thai customers did not like chartering, but this has now become a huge market and this high season will likely be the busiest yachting season Phuket has ever had.” This trend has been seen around the globe with charter clients wanting to make the most of time with family and friends. “This summer the Mediterranean also saw a huge increase in charter activity, with all our yachts booked out from October 2022 to March 2023,” adds Longstaff.

Flourishing Fleet

During lockdown the Hong Kong fleet of yachts grew, as people looked for ways to enjoy their city, and this trend continues with a varied fleet of day and overnight charter yachts on offer. Thailand is a particularly popular charter destination, that is going from strength to strength, and Simpson Marine has the biggest charter fleet in the country, with yachts of all sizes, from day boats to superyachts. “Our fleet counts 15 Central Agency listings, including Lagoon 46s, Lagoon 620s and a Sanlorenzo 118, and close to 200 additional non-CA yachts on offer,” says Longstaff. “Lagoon models, including the Lagoon 42 Cloud Dancer, Lagoon 52F Blue Moon, and the Lagoon 620 JYOHANA, and the Azimut 55 Evolution After 8 are popular choices for family cruising. Our most booked bigger boats include 30m Bilgin MIA KAI, 31m Astondoa 102, and 34m Moonen Xanadu of London – these are all really versatile boats that are great for creating memories on the water.”

Superyachts in High Demand

As charter grows in popularity, so too does demand for the very best boats. The Simpson superyacht fleet in Thailand currently numbers around 10, and this is only set to grow. “Charter superyachts are now more sought after than ever, and high-end superyachts are getting busier and busier with charters around Asia, which is a great sign for the future,” says Longstaff. The launch of a new Thai superyacht charter licence in 2021, that meant superyachts over 100’ were able to charter in Thailand and only pay 7% tax on charter income, has been a huge boost for superyacht charter in the country. “We have already had three 30m+ yachts approved for the licence, and we are in the process of obtaining a licence for a beautiful Sanlorenzo SL118,” says Longstaff.

Favourite Destinations

Wherever you go in Asia, and around the world, a beautiful cruising ground is guaranteed to be found. The Simpson Charter fleet has boats located in all key destinations, including South-East Asia, the South Pacific, Mediterranean, and even the South Pole. Popular destinations include Hong Kong, and the surrounding islands, for a great blend of cosmopolitan life and natural beauty. Thailand is a quintessential charter destination, particularly around Phuket, thanks to its paradisical offering, and Pattaya has also experienced a particular rise in charter in recent years. Singapore is also another popular choice for easy cruising close to the city. Wherever you wish to go, our team can help craft a bespoke itinerary that takes in the best of your chosen destination. Your charter adventure awaits.