On location at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show 2024, join Onno Ebbens, Chief Marketing Officer at YATCO as he interviews some of the industry’s key players throughout the duration of the show. Today he is onboard KAMALAYA motor yacht to share details on the yacht and the role of the yacht charter manager and the crew.
“Good morning, good afternoon, or good evening, wherever you are in the world or wherever you are watching this video. We are still at the Antigua Charter Yacht Show, and with the charter manager at Cecil Wright, Vanessa Buck, who has invited us to have a chat with her on board this amazing vessel.”
Introducing KAMALAYA
“KAMALAYA is an Amels 55m (180’ 5”) yacht. She used to be one of the most famous charter vessels back in the day, didn’t she?”
“She certainly was with the previous ownership, and she continues to be with the new owner. She remains one of our most successful charter yachts. The 55m Amels [models] are particularly charter-friendly vessels, and KAMALAYA’s neutral interior palette is especially appealing to guests. She’s always a firm favorite in our fleet.”
Charter Status and Bookings
“She has been back on the charter market for a year and a half now. How is she looking for the season?”
“For this particular winter season, we have owner usage over Christmas and New Year’s, but after that, we have many inquiries coming in and a potential two-week charter just about to be booked. For the summer season, we already have a full month booked in two separate slots. I am extremely confident that we will fill the calendar. Honestly, I don’t have to do much work with this one—she books herself!”
Understanding the Role of a Charter Manager
“Within Cecil Wright, you are the charter manager. For people who do not understand the different roles—charter brokers, charter managers, central agents—what does a charter manager do?”
“A central agent and a charter manager are two terms for the same role, but we are essentially the flip side of the coin. Charter brokers bring us the clients and inquiries, while we manage the vessels, their calendars, and negotiations. We also handle interactions with owners and crew, which is one of the more enjoyable parts of the job. We get very attached to our crews and owners and get to know our boats inside out—this is a vital aspect of our role.”
“So, if someone is looking to charter a vessel, they will speak to a charter broker, who will find a vessel that suits their needs. If it happens to be KAMALAYA, they will then come to you.”
“Exactly!”
What Makes KAMALAYA Special?
“We want to know everything about this vessel. The first officer, Garrett, will tell us more about the yacht shortly. But before that, is there anything else you want to highlight about KAMALAYA?”
“Beyond what I have already mentioned, I must emphasize the exceptional crew. As much as a vessel can be fabulous, the quality of the crew can make or break its reputation. KAMALAYA’s crew is consistently outstanding—proactive, friendly, and always delivering excellent service. I have many references from previously booked charters that prove my words.”
“Since she has been back on the market for a year and a half, we measure the value of a good charter vessel by the number of returning guests, right?”
“Absolutely! And we have had returning guests, which proves everything.”
Meet Captain Ryan Gregory
“We now have Captain Ryan Gregory of KAMALAYA, who has kindly agreed to tell us more about the vessel.”
Crew and Operations
“How many crew members does KAMALAYA have?”
“We carry 14 crew at any given time. We have heads of departments on rotation, but there will always be 14 crew on board.”
“That is quite a few for a 55-meter yacht!”
“Yes, we are well-crewed. Fourteen is just the right amount for our program. It allows us to maintain continuity, operate a dual-season schedule, and provide top-tier charter experiences.”
What Makes the Crew Stand Out?
“Since KAMALAYA is heavily used by the owner but also has strong charter bookings, what makes your crew so outstanding for charter guests?”
“We have managed to put together a team that is down-to-earth and has great energy. They can step in when needed, interact appropriately, and, most importantly, read the clients well. Having worked on charter yachts for many years, I know that understanding the guests’ preferences and needs is vital. A great crew must be able to anticipate what guests want and create the perfect experience for them.”
“The crew truly makes the charter experience, right?”
“Absolutely! While the vessel itself is important, there are many amazing yachts out there. What really makes the difference is having a crew that fits the client’s needs and enhances their experience on board.”
Special Features and Activities
“Are there any specific toys or activities that KAMALAYA offers?”
“We have the standard yachting toys, but what sets KAMALAYA apart is her design. The Amel 55 platform is very well thought out, offering space and functionality that rival even 60-meter yachts. We have a huge inflatable dock with a jellyfish pool, docking spaces for jet skis, seabobs, and an eFoil. We also have a full setup for diving on board and a brand-new RIB tender on the bow. Essentially, we are fully equipped to cater to whatever the client’s desire.”
KAMALAYA’s Identity and Atmosphere
“We have spoken with the charter manager and now with you, and you both seem very relaxed about KAMALAYA’s success. Every vessel has its own identity—what would you say is KAMALAYA’s identity?”
“That’s a great point. Every yacht has its own personality. I believe that, right from the top, we have cultivated a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We want clients to step on board, feel at home, and unwind. Then, once they settle in, they can decide how they want their charter experience to unfold. The crew plays a massive role in this, and a happy crew translates into happy guests. When charter guests step on board, they can sense the positive energy, and that makes for an incredible experience.”
“Thank you so much, Ryan, for your time. And thank you all for watching! This was our episode on KAMALAYA from the Antigua Charter Yacht Show.”
