Kata Rocks Cements Their Superyacht Rendezvous as a World-class Yachting Event

Kata

Simon Phillips (second from left), superyacht owner and CEO Seajet International showcasing the state-of-the-art jet watercraft for the first time
Michael Nurbatlian; Hwee Tiah, Burgess; Richard Pope, CEO Infinite Luxury; Nicky Andre, Hemisphere Monaco; Jean-Mark Poullet Burgess

The second annual Kata Rocks Super Superyacht Rendezvous (KRSR), hosted by luxury Thai resort Kata Rocks, last week welcomed some of the most important industry players of global yachting to the island of Phuket. From 8 to 10 December 2017, the world’s leading luxury yachting brands, prestigious shipyards, respected brokerage houses and a number of superyacht owners came together for three days of exclusive parties, celebrations and networking events.

According to Richard Pope, CEO of Kata Rocks & Infinite Luxury: “The KRSR 2017 is proud to have attracted the most prestigious brands from the yachting world including Feadship and Royal Huisman - brands that normally only showcase together in Monaco and Fort Lauderdale.

To have these brands supporting the KRSR will only help to generate increased interest in Phuket, Thailand and Asia as a world-class superyachting destination.”

More than 20 yachts assembled for this year’s rendezvous, exceeding last year’s attendance. Top yachts included Feadship’s70-metre MY Lady Christine that showcased a radically different exterior design from De Voogt Naval Architects; the 52-metre Phinisi Schooner SY Zen, Burgess’ 51-metre MY Northern Sun, 32-metre MY Princess Sauvage, two Monte Carlo 86 yachtsand MY Grace, the 2017 Sunseeker Manhattan 66.

The 2017 KRSR enjoyed an excellent social programme, hosting fantastic parties, private dinners, caviar and vodka tastings, superyacht brunch cruises, and much more.

Royal Huisman joined the rendezvous and hosted an exclusive brunch to celebrate the Asia launch of its new ‘Pura’ concept - a radical custom sailing yacht solution that shortens delivery time to owners.
Contest Yachts, a worldwide leader in custom-built sail yachts, celebrated its Asia launch with a special cocktail party. Arjen Conijn, Contest Yachts CEO, said: “We are very impressed by the rapid growth and significance of the KRSR and the decision to attend the event for its launch was a win-win for all.”

Watercraft manufacturers Seajet also made its worldwide debut at the KRSR, showcasing the state-of-the-art jet watercrafts ‘Marlin’ and ‘Stingray’ for the first time. Seajet, which will start production in February 2018, generously donated a Stingray for a silent charity auction that raised US$ 5,500 (185,000 baht) with all proceeds going to the Phuket Youth Sailing Club.

Feadship, co-sponsor of the KRSR, hosted an owners’ dinner that brought together a curated group of superyacht owners and other discerning guests for an evening of fine dining. Feadship Brand Director Farouk Nefzi said: "As co-sponsors, Feadship has always believed in the Asia region as we have quite a few Asian clients. We've build a trustworthy relationship with them and the KRSR is great brand fit with Feadship."

Benetti and VistaJet partnered to host a private dinner, drawing in their clientele to the KRSR. Bangkok-based artisan Alexander Lamont designed stylish gifts for the VIP guests.

Other events included a beach BBQ at The Surin Phuket, cocktail sessions on MY Northern Sun and the MY Princess Sauvage, and Northrop & Johnson’s sunset cruise onboard the sleek Zeelander. Guests were able to step onboard the participating superyachts during the ‘yacht hop’ and experience SeaDoo’s latest in marine sport toys during 'Big Boys' Toys', and the newly added 'King’s Cup Superyacht Experience'.

The Kata Rocks Superyacht Rendezvous welcomed numerous VIP guests including, 30 superyacht owners, celebrities and captains of industry to its jam-packed schedule of events that climaxed with the Charter Season Opening Party. Guests were treated to a lavish gala party, live band, and a special stage performance including a surprise appearance by Thailand’s celebrity singer Tata Young and spectacular fireworks over the Andaman Sea.

Next year’s KRSR is scheduled for 7 to 9 December 2018
and is set to be bigger and better, with organisers committed to making the KRSR a major event in the region.