The glamour of a superyacht provides the ideal setting for a party, and superyachts have provided the ultimate platform for the most exclusive celebrations since William Vanderbilt hosted parties off Newport on his 86m (285ft) yacht ALVA in the 1920s.
No stranger to lavish ceremonies either, superyachts have also been the ultimate wedding venue for royalty and Hollywood elite for the last few decades. Most famously, the opulent 99m (325ft) CHRISTINA O served as the venue for the royal wedding reception of Grace Kelly and Monaco’s Prince Rainier III in 1956, and 12 years later Jackie O and Onassis also celebrated their marriage on board. More recently she was chartered by Heidi Klum, who celebrated her nuptials with Tom Kaulitz off the magical coast of Capri.
Whatever the occasion, a superyacht is like no other venue and a perfect alternative to a country retreat or private island, providing a one-of-a-kind experience in one incomparable setting. With all of the ingredients you need for an unforgettable celebration – romantic decor, amazing cuisine, beautiful setting, arrival by tender from the shore, the opportunities to wow and impress your guests are literally endless.
Let’s take weddings. No cookie-cutter occasions these, a superyacht wedding or wedding reception will suit almost any celebration, be it a formal wedding ceremony or a barefoot sunset exchanging of vows, and no matter what the style of event, there is a yacht to suit every taste and budget (almost).
Legalities for a superyacht wedding vary depending on the country and the yacht chosen. For example, in France the couple must first have a civil ceremony at the Mairie (Town Hall) after which a religious or secular ceremony can take place at any location, including on board a yacht. In some countries the yacht’s captain may be able to officiate during the ceremony, while on other occasions a celebrant can be invited on board.
Then there are the legalities of the size of wedding party. Most charter yachts are only legally allowed to cruise with a maximum of 12 guests on board but Burgess has a selection of yachts available to charter for larger wedding parties, and other yachts which can gain special dispensations from the authorities for larger parties held at anchor.
Whether you are looking for a larger event berthed or prefer to charter for a smaller, more intimate occasion, cruising to a location for the ceremony, anything is possible. And of course, once the wedding is over, a yacht is the perfect choice for your honeymoon.
The 43.8m (143.7ft) SILVER DREAM is no stranger to wedding celebrations. With a capacity for up to 80 guests for a quayside reception, she is popular for hosting large events and her crew have a reputation for impeccable service and attention to detail. With her large master suite and spacious VIP she is also well suited for the bride’s wedding preparations and the honeymoon that follows.
The 56.4m (185ft) MY SEANNA is another yacht that is no stranger to wedding celebrations. Captain Todd Lee is a certified pastor who can perform legal marriages and civil unions on board. With accommodation for up to 12 guests, the wedding couple can make the most of her stunning master suite while the wedding party can relax in the bridge deck VIP and four double and twin cabins on the lower deck.
Rest assured, wherever the destination, a superyacht offers great scenery, impeccable service and a truly memorable experience for all.
Contact your Burgess charter expert for more information on the most suitable yacht for your big day
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