Plying the fascinating Mekong River between old Saigon and Phnom Penh

Exotic Charter Vessels Join Camper & Nicholsons Fleet

Camper & Nicholsons has been appointed as the new Central Charter Agent for 69m Saluzi, offered in the Mediterranean and Asia, 62m Aqua Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam, and the 45m Aria Amazon based in Peru.

This well-known international agency, which has its Asian HQ in Hong Kong, has added these exotic vessels to its worldwide portfolio, allowing clients to explore unique charter destinations such as the Amazon River on the 16-suite Aria Amazon, and to discover the ancient cultures of Cambodia and Vietnam with the 20-suite Aqua Mekong.

Both have consulting chefs for a fine culinary experience as well as adventure. The renowned Michelin-star chef David Thompson has designed the menus aboard Aqua Mekong, while at the Peruvian end of the Amazon, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino of Malabar in Lima is creating dishes from plants and meats indigenous to that region.

There are cruising packages with chef-hosted departures, and special voyages with world-famous explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau, to experience the Amazon and Mekong from the perspective a conservationist, as well as other specialist trips for photographers and wellness adherents.

“Aqua Mekong is really offering a cultural odyssey”, says C&N charter broker Wenny Chow. “Guests get to explore the complex history, diverse regions and the ancient cultures of both Vietnam and Cambodia. It is a truly fascinating voyage in which the superb cuisine simply enhances the experience as you ply from Vietnam’s hypnotic bustle deep into the Cambodian countryside.”

Aria Amazon “boasts a contemporary style and luxuries designed to exceed the expectations of today’s sophisticated travellers. It is the only vessel to offer the facilities of a floating five-star hotel on the river, with a fully-equipped gym and cinema. All 16 designer suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that reveal the mesmerising natural drama of the Amazon River.”

The cruising package includes daily wildlife safaris guided by naturalists to see the river’s animals and birds. There are also kayaking and biking excursions, and four custom-designed speedboats allowing guests to take a closer look at the river’s vibrant life patterns. Those wanting to relax aboard can take cooking classes with the chefs.

Saluzi, which features an emperor’s warhorse on her hull, can comfortably accommodate 32 guests, making her perfect for extended family cruises or event charters.

She offers guests exceptional amenities: a SPA with dry and wet massage tables and hairdressing facilities, a fully equipped gym, two jacuzzis, a plethora of the latest water toys, an open air cinema, and a full karaoke set up.

As reported exclusively in Yacht Style #36’s Top 100 Superyachts issue in late 2016, Hong Kong-based Lai Sun Group acquired a 50 per cent stake in Camper & Nicholsons International. This has resulted in the strategic launch of Camper & Nicholsons Asia Holdings (CNA) based in Hong Kong.

Colourful businessman Lester Lam was appointed as Chairman, and leads a strong team to start a new chapter in Asia in offering yacht brokerage, charter and management services to luxury yacht owners and users.

The name Camper & Nicholsons has been synonymous with the world’s finest super yachts since 1782, and has 12 offices around the globe. “Opening a new office in Hong Kong in 2017 significantly strengthened the Camper & Nicholsons brand, reinforcing its standing as the world’s leading yachting company”, said Lam.

“Recognising the importance in offering world-class services to the Asian market, Camper & Nicholsons Asia has been expanding its reach into the rapidly developing Asian charter yacht market”.

Since its Hong Kong office opening, C&N Asia has been actively promoting Asian charter destinations and charter yachts based in Asia, advising and assisting international clients to enjoy custom charter experiences in Asia’s stunning cruising grounds, as well as introducing Asian customers to other popular Mediterranean and Caribbean superyacht destinations.

C&N Asia has been providing its Asian and Asia-based yacht owners with advice and support in chartering their vessels, and plans on further expanding its Asian reach in 2018.

For general enquiries, contact asia@camperandnicholsons.com or email to wchow@camperandnicholsons.com for charter enquiries.