In 2017, German entrepreneur Guido Krass co-founded the Milan-based One Ocean Foundation, dedicated to tackling ocean-related challenges through initiatives focused on ocean literacy, blue economy projects, and scientific research programmes.
It’s thus no surprise that Krass’s awe-inspiring superyacht, “Bold,” has been among the first to grace the Red Sea Coast of Saudi Arabia. Supported by BWA Yachting, appointed as the “key partner superyacht agency in NEOM” this year, Bold epitomises luxury and adventure. As the enchanting island of Sindalah emerges as the Red Sea’s premier ultra-prime superyacht destination, BWA Yachting is poised to provide top-tier services to the world’s most discerning luxury vessels.
During a meeting aboard Bold with BWA’s senior officers and Bold’s acting captain and chief officer, we uncovered the essence of this extraordinary superyacht, and some of the reasons behind the infatuation for this new, unexplored (by “westerners” at least) coastline.
Chief Officer Ben Weatherseed shares, “Bold has an 11m beam, 2.85m draught, and an approximate top speed of 23 knots. We have 23 crew on board and capacity for 12 passengers. She’s a global cruising boat. We pretty much go wherever we want. The boat’s done a lot of travelling in its life so far.”
Bold ventured along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast last year, an area previously off-limits for this kind of private cruising. Bold’s first Saudi stop was in Jeddah, where she picked up extra crew and bunkered fuel. Weatherseed explains, “We found it quite easy to get in there and get tied up, get all the things done. We weren’t there for very long – around four hours, and got all the things we need to do, and then we headed up north. The main part of our trip started up north, and we found some nice sandbanks, some nice reefs to go and explore and do a bit of snorkelling. The guests we had on had a great time.”
Scheduled to launch in late 2024, Sindalah island promises to be a new and luxurious entrance into the enchantments of the Red Sea, beckoning discerning global travellers seeking a novel and lavish destination.
Rising out of the crystalline waters of the Red Sea off Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coast, Sindalah will define a new dimension of exquisite bespoke travel.
The island will be the first of NEOM’s assets to be unveiled, in the process introducing the world to how the project envisages the future of civilization.
Offering its inhabitants an idyllic luxury lifestyle, Sindalah is one of NEOM’s 39 islands that will be home to a world-leading yachting ecosystem with more than 5,000 berths.
Laura Esteve, Chief Business Development Officer for BWA Yachting, describes their meticulous approach to itinerary planning, emphasising the partnership between captains and BWA. “Our expertise extends to orchestrating restaurant reservations, coordinating tour schedules, and acting as the crew’s trusted partners. Together, we ensure the flawless delivery of an extraordinary guest experience.”
Esteve explains BWA Yachting’s excitement about exploring the Red Sea: “This region boasts Saudi Arabia’s untouched, pristine coral reefs and unparalleled natural beauty. At a time when yachts have frequented the Mediterranean and Caribbean extensively, this presents an unparalleled chance to venture into uncharted waters, witnessing unseen wonders, and experiencing the thrill of pioneering and exploration all over again, right in the proximity of the magnificent Red Sea.”
The development of Sindalah poses a distinctive challenge within the yachting industry, demanding the creation of an entirely fresh infrastructure. Esteve underscores the cooperative endeavors of their global team in bringing this ambitious project to fruition. “Neom is purposefully crafting a magnificent new destination, prioritising environmental preservation and partnering with top-tier collaborators to enhance the untouched beauty of their coastline. Our vision is to deliver an extraordinary experience enriched with exceptional services and facilities, complementing the pristine natural surroundings.”
While NEOM’s allure is undeniable, Esteve’s enthusiasm extends to the entire kingdom. “We’re thrilled to introduce this new opportunity for Superyachts. In the past, they often bypassed Saudi Arabia, choosing to explore the Middle East or head to the Seychelles and the Maldives. However, with these developments, the Red Sea emerges as an incredible gem, accessible to superyachts in a responsible and sustainable manner, ensuring the preservation of the ecosystem and the highest standards of practice.”
New regulations for Saudi Red Sea sailing
In August of this year, the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) unveiled seven new regulations aimed at enhancing navigational activities in the Red Sea, set to take effect in the next month. These comprehensive regulations encompass all aspects of tourism in the Red Sea region and align with SRSA’s vision to transform the region into a world-class tourism destination offering diverse and sustainable experiences for visitors. Compliant yachts and cruise ships are welcomed, recognising their contribution to the region’s economic and social development.
Bringing humans and nature together – in the right way
More than most businesspeople, as co-founder of the One Ocean Foundation, Guido Krass appreciates the relationship between ocean ecosystems and the human world, further fostering an understanding of the importance of preserving and protecting nature. And as visitors explore the Red Sea coast, they too are invited to partake in the conservation efforts championed by Saudi authorities.
This remarkable synergy between luxury yachting and environmental preservation promises to create a sustainable and unforgettable experience for high-end travellers in the Red Sea region.
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Read also: TOP-NOTCH SUPERYACHT SERVICES FOR SINDALAH
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Text by Richard Barnes and Diane Lefebvre
