Asia’s premier boat show returns

Here’s an opportunity for boating enthusiasts to check out some of the world’s finest superyachts, writes Alan Teh Leam Seng TRAVEL FILE

ICAN still vividly remember my first yachting experience years ago in Langkawi. It is not something I can easily forget. Standing on the deck with the sea breeze gently caressing my face, I saw a pair of gulls gliding gracefully above while a little further away, a school of dolphins skimmed the water surface as they tried to catch up with me.

Many a time I have caught myself at my workstation dreaming about this perfect moment, always hoping to be able to relive it at least once. So imagine my excitement recently at finding out that a major yacht show is to take place soon.

My leave has been approved, the dates are clearly crossed out in my calendar and bus tickets have been purchased. I am all set for the Singapore Yacht Show 2017 from April 6-9 at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove.

Yachting enthusiasts like myself can look forward to the region’s biggest annual showcase of boats and yachts. I just cannot

Sentosa Cove is located on the eastern part of Sentosa Island.

The activities go on till late at night.

wait to set eyes on the gleaming new models from renowned brand names like Princess Yachts, Simpson Marine, Hong Seh Marine, Ferretti Group, Leopard Catamarans and Azimut Singapore.

The 65m Ambrosia will surely be a standout among the bevy of floating beauties. I can already imagine venturing onto one of its four expansive decks or dipping my feet into its on-deck jacuzzi or swimming pool. This dream yacht even comes with a helicopter landing pad.

At the same time, I must also keep an eye out for the Ocean Emerald. This uniquely designed boat was recently featured in the remake of the film Point Break. Imagine how envious my friends will be when I post a selfie with this yacht in the background.

The participation of leading Asian yacht dealers, Simpson Marine and Hong Seh Marine, augurs well for boat builders in this region. Visitors can look forward to impressive debuts like Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 62 and Boston Whaler 370. Those looking for a lovely day-boat or weekend cruiser can check out the Cranchi Z35 which is both spacious as well as fuelefficient.

Over the years, catamarans have steadily gained market share in Southeast Asia. The popularity of this boat category is mainly due to its expansive interior and exterior spaces as well as great stability. Catamaran enthusiasts will be glad to know that HH Catamarans will showcase its state-of-the-art, carbon fibre, highperformance boats during the show.

Going strong into its seventh year, the Singapore Yacht Show 2017 aims to provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to learn more about the world’s best superyachts and international boat brands.

As for me, I can say I have been there and experienced the lifestyle of the rich and famous at least for a fleeting moment. A moment very much like the one I had in Langkawi. Both will surely remain etched in my mind for a very long time to come.

For more details of the Singapore Yacht Show, visit www.singaporeyachtshow. com. Or email info@singaporeyachtshow. com / contact +65 6304 7950.

There is no greater feeling than being on

a yacht and going wherever you want.