Year after year the Asia Superyacht Rendezvous (ASR) brings together an extraordinary assemblage of vessels with their owners, captains & crew, this year’s 3-day elite extravaganza opens at ASR Host Hotel, the award-winning 5-Star SALA Resort & Spa.
ASR, the longest-running event of its nature in Asia, opened December 16th for the 16th annual 3-day International Asia Superyacht Rendezvous at one of the most dramatic settings in Phuket, pristine Mai Khao beach in Phuket’s northwest shoreline, to enjoy one of the most exclusive events on the superyacht yachting calendar- a fabulous destination and great starting point for the cruising season – especially given that the Thai Government are trying to change the Charter Regulations.
In addition to providing a platform for relaxed and exclusive private gatherings, for the first time this year, the two days of competitive racing will see vessel owners and captains intent on becoming the first to be awarded the coveted ASR “Winner’s Cup”, to be awarded at the closing VIP Gala Dinner.
Kicking off with a flair is the December 16th “Opening Night Cocktail Party” host, the phinisi-style superyacht S/Y Dunia Baru, second to none when it comes to South East Asia charter vacations. Owner Mark Robba comments: “We have wanted to join the Asia Superyacht Rendezvous for a number of years but our schedules have never before matched. However, last year we had such positive feedback from our clients in regards to chartering in the Mergui Archipelago, we decided to come to Thailand earlier this year, lending us the opportunity to also join this prestigious event. Our talented western chef has been working with our Indonesian chef to create a mouth-watering selection of western and Asian appetisers for the opening party.”
Organisers Gordon Fernandes and Captain Charlie Dwyer report they are delighted with the enthusiastic interest from attending superyachts, which include: 56.27m S/Y Tiara 51m S/Y Dunia Baru; 24.2m S/Y Dallinghoo; 28m S/Y Aphrodite; 40m M/Y Vie San Soucis; 37m S/Y Bliss; 34m M/Y Azul A; and 33m M/Y After 8 – along with some pleasure sailing vessels.
ASR Sponsors and Partners will be front and centre at the exclusive gathering. Co- Sponsor Benetti Yachts Chief Commercial Officer, Fabio Ermetto, remarked, “Our participation is a reflection of Benetti’s commitment to bring the authentic superyacht lifestyle and culture to Asia. This is one of the few regattas in the world that allows both motor and sailing yachts to participate alongside each other, with sailing yachts racing on a course marked by power superyachts and pleasure sailing vessels. The Asia Superyacht Rendezvous is one of the most exclusive events in the world superyacht sector.”