The global financial crisis has resulted in owners becoming more involved in the business side of their yacht charters, says Charles ‘Buddy’ Darby, the co-owner of S/Y Andromeda la Dea and luxury resort developer. He also feels that crew and captains have a big part to play in securing berths at great destinations. The Superyacht Owner talked to Darby, who is developing Christophe Harbour, a St Kitts superyacht marina and resort that will be receiving superyachts next season, about what owners want from their marinas today and how their needs should be being met.

Do you feel that owners are overcharged for certain popular yachting destinations, and how can they make sure they get good value?

Certain destinations do charge a premium based on services and amenities that other destinations cannot provide, particularly when it comes to large yachts. The number of superyachts continues to increase but the facilities are not expanding at the same rate. Much of the value an owner will receive comes from the captain and crew doing the necessary research and planning to make sure they are not only getting the best price but also making sure the chosen destinations offer the best services that are important to the owner.

Have priorities for owners changed since 2008 in terms of value and cost in yachting, or are they the same?

Economic conditions since 2008 have dictated owners to shift their priorities both in regards to business as well as personal finance and luxury spending. Some owners have discounted charters more than they have in the past while others have elected to charter more often resulting in less time for themselves on board. I think you'll also have seen competition increase and owners becoming more involved in the business aspect of chartering.

In your opinion is there a need for regulations to be relaxed in certain areas, for example customs, in the Caribbean to encourage yachts to visit certain ports? If so, where?

Owners understand that there are different rules for different countries and they will rely on the crew to ensure that regulations are followed. VIP clearance and paperless clearance are definitely a value driver for the Caribbean Islands and those that have a seamless customs process are more likely to attract repeat visitors.

What's your advice to superyacht charterers or owners who may have safety concerns with the Caribbean?

Safety and security are paramount and as an owner you must weigh up the safety of not only the passengers, but also the crew, both while at sea and also in the chosen ports. The Caribbean is no different really than other parts of the world, with some places in the region being known to be safer than others. Common sense and trust in the crew will guide owners as well as charter guests to cruise safely throughout the Caribbean.

In your experience, what is the biggest mistaken presumption marinas make about the needs of yacht owners?

Marina developers presume that owners prefer to stay at anchor, which many do. However if a marina were a destination in itself, owners would be more apt to stay dockside. For too long, marinas were seen only as a place for maintenance and provisioning and not a destination with boutique shopping, five-star dining, or cultural activities where owners and charter guests would want to come to ashore.

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