Floating Des Res: Step on, Check-in, Zone Out

Hotels with yachts included as part of their excursion offering are the latest craze to hit the hospitality sector. Spurred on by the freedom that boating provides, it opens a gateway to thrilling high sea adventures for all. FRANK highlights the top five floating ‘des res’ across the globe.

01

Aman

A reputation for being the most exclusive, wellness-centered hotel brand in the world precedes Aman. Meticulously designed to frame their natural settings, the hotels are renowned for jaw-dropping locations, locally-inspired architecture and ultimate privacy. So, when in 2021 the brand announced the design and build of its own superyacht, shock waves of excitement rippled across the globe. The 600- foot PROJECT SAMA (meaning tranquility in Sanskrit) is developed in partnership with Cruise Saudi, with an interior by Sinot Yacht Design, and set to launch in 2025. Featuring 50 spacious suites, each with a private balcony, there is an array of indulgent dining options planned, along with two helipads, a waterside beach club and a signature Aman Spa with a Japanese garden. The yacht’s official name and itinerary is yet to be confirmed, but the intention to create “sanctuaries at sea in unfrequented locations” underpins the exciting new build.

02

Hurawalhi Maldives

How do you up the romance when visiting one of the most seductive destinations on the planet? By speeding off together aboard motor yacht BELLA in search of deserted islands. Trade your over-water pool villa for an onboard picnic on the flybridge, sipping Champagne in front of a Maldivian sunset, before spending the night under the starlit sky. Aboard Hurawalhi Maldives’ Princess 55, guests experience the very best of the country’s underwater treasures. Scuba dive in Noonu Atoll with whale sharks, the biggest fish in the sea. Snorkel at Hanifaru Bay Marine Reserve, one of the world’s largest feeding grounds for manta rays. Swim among some of the rarest reefs in Lhaviyani. Whether a morning excursion or an overnight stay, time spent aboard BELLA elevates a beach retreat vacation to one that presents incredible marine life encounters.

03

Six Senses Ibiza

Arriving on the shores of Ibiza’s Cala Xarraca Bay in July 2021, Six Senses took full advantage of its secluded seaside surroundings offering a diverse range of ocean experiences. Among the treats available to those who check-in at the front desk are luxurious boating excursions aboard the hotel’s private yacht portfolio. Sustainably-minded guests can sail into the sunset aboard a solar catamaran, while the jet-set squad can board a sleek and speedy Scanner Envy 950. When out at sea, the resort’s expert guide navigates a journey to the best-kept secrets of the Ibizan coastline, from the private island of Tagomago to the bay at Cala Negra for a dreamy day of snorkeling, cliff jumping and underwater aquatic adventures.

04

Dighu Maldives, Anantara

For many, happiness is found in discovering destinations for the first time and immersing in the culture. The 1,200 coral islands that make up the Maldives provide bountiful adventures, but to truly experience the Maldivian way of life, an unforgettable journey island-hopping aboard NIRVANA is the way to do so. Drop anchor and step into local island village life. Catch sailfish with expert guides or learn the Maldivian sport of hand-line fishing. Enjoy a chef’s picnic basket on a secluded sandbank or dine on canapés on deck at sunset. In a country that is 99% water, being aboard your own captained yacht, journeying behind the horizon, is the only way to see the stunning seas of the Maldivian atoll.

05

The Abaco, Bahamas

The Bahamas is the land of plenty, but now that yacht membership club Barton & Gray has partnered with The Abaco Club on Winding Bay, it’s become the land of plenty more. The Bahamas marks Barton & Gray’s first harbor outside of the United States, joining the company’s roster of 30 harbors along the East Coast and Great Lakes. The partnership marries Abaco’s sheltered location nestled among the palms on The Abacos’ western coast with a fleet of 60-plus captained yachts. The collection includes 36-foot Hinckley Picnic boats, 44-foot Hinckley Talarias, and new for 2022, a 48-foot B&G Daychaser with a rapid top speed of 35 knots for island hopping with flair.

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From intelligent debate to cutting-edge science, and risky sports to surreal charter experiences, FRANK does not shy away from the awkward, controversial, or questionable details. Brazen at times, amusing in spirit, and always transparent in the discussion, the focus is on discovering new angles and enjoying every minute. And, of course, always being ‘frank’ about the conclusions.

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