Dubai, UAE; June 2008; Dubai Marina Yacht Club, the world-class project by Emaar Hospitality Group LLC in Dubai Marina, has launched Athena Dubai, a 13-metre, US-built motor yacht, an ideal platform to cruise the Arabian sea taking in spectacular views of the Dubai coastline and its myriad developments.
Redefining nautical luxury, Athena Dubai has spacious interiors and secure, shaded exterior seating. With a capacity for up to 10 guests, the yacht can cruise at a speed of 20 knots providing an ideal cruising itinerary through the Arabian Gulf – whether for a few hours or overnight.
Mr. Steve Stiglbauer, General Manager, Dubai Marina Yacht Club said: “Athena Dubai embodies nautical luxury and is ideal for cruise enthusiasts, who prefer to explore the spectacular experience of cruising the Arabian Sea taking in the delights of the coastline. From family get-togethers to parties and commercial events, Athena Dubai is ideally suited as an alternative leisure choice.”
Athena Dubai is fully air-conditioned and offers guests the option of comfortable saloon seating as well as al fresco cocktail cruise with quality linen and elegant dining utensils. Visitors can enjoy a formal setting on the aft deck that can seat 6 to 8 people. Fully crewed by Dubai Marina Yacht Club staff, on-board Athena Dubai, guests can enjoy full-course meals, canapés and an extensive range of refreshments. Gourmet meals are prepared by expert chefs at the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.
Mr. Stiglbauer added: “A cruise on Athena Dubai also serves as a hands-on experience for those intending to purchase a motor yacht. As well as witnessing the architectural marvels that are shaping the Dubai coastline – giving them a true glimpse of the impressive growth of the city, guests can also gain first-hand information on the varied aspects of cruising in luxury motor yachts.”
During excursions, Athena Dubai can anchor off the beach, accommodating guests for a swim, snorkel, or opportunity to soak up the sun on deck. Guests can also get a sample of the trading heritage of Dubai through the dhow wharfs.
Charter costs are designed as a complete package, where all amenities are at complete disposal – from the stereo and audiovisual system, to the galley and the large aft stateroom which is available for a quick nap. Fuel, light refreshments, and running costs are inclusive in the package. Visitors can choose to depart from various destinations in Dubai, allowing them to experience a yacht charter as part of a larger itinerary.
An ideal package for corporate incentive schemes, bonus parties or presenting new products and ideals, the yacht is fully equipped with a high quality CD stereo, including both internal and external speakers, a VHS stereo video and a DVD stereo video. Power sources on board are both 240v and 12v and can accept most presentation equipment easily.
Athena Dubai operates out of the Dubai Marina Yacht Club which is the first and largest of its kind waterfront development in the region. Set on two levels, with a further two levels of underground parking for members and their guests, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club mixes fine dining and a licensed beverage outlet on the terrace level overlooking the Marina with boutique marine shops, express café and nautical lifestyle stores opening to Dubai Marina’s stunning Marina Walk.
The Club offers weekly boat cleaning services as well as advice on all aspects of yacht ownership. The service standards offered to yacht owners set the Club apart. From dock staff who are out on the water helping yachts, to the international and local knowledge on systems, cultures and cruising grounds in the office, the Club is led by veterans, who are all experienced boat owners able to understand the challenges and rewards of owning a yacht in the Middle East.
Construction of two more Marinas has been commissioned for 2008, which will add a further 150 berths over the next ten months. Dubai Marina will eventually host up to 600 yachts of sizes from 20 to 120 ft.