Elite Traveler Spring 2024

SPRING 2024

The Adventure Issue

COVERING ALL BASES (AND CONTINENTS) TO PRESENT THE NEVER-DONE-BEFORE AND THE TRULY SPECTACULAR

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Welcome

What does ‘adventure’ mean to you? It could be something high-octane (and mildly terrifying) like heli-skiing in the frozen continent or braving the depths in a submarine to uncover the marine life that resides far, far beneath the surface. Perhaps a cultural immersion traversing the Silk Road is more your thing, or a private jet journey with a focus on getting good, quality sleep. Whatever you seek, this year’s compilation of Top Adventures is sure to tick many a box.

Elite Traveler around the world For daily updates, follow us on Twitter @elite_traveler and on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest @elitetraveler

If your idea of a good adventure is going o ff the beaten path, a superyacht charter is usually the best way to do so. But what kind of tender do you need when you want to explore? Miriam Cain answers this question on pg 84 as she uncovers the rise of the super-tender: “The demand for chase boats has certainly increased tenfold in the past decade, as owners look to explore further a fi eld while also expanding their toy list for increased fun.” More of a city dweller? Head to our Explore section on pg 98. Michelle Gross checks out the sights, the sips and the seafood of Boston, and heads to Sin City for the grand opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics, Nicola Leigh Stewart (who is based in the City of Light) outlines the only suites you should consider booking if you’re in town for the games — think: views of the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Coeur, Musée d’Orsay and Ei ff el Tower from your private terrace, or a replica of Queen Marie Antoinette’s bedchamber. Inour In fl uence section, we’ve covered land, sea and air. Irenie Forshaw speaks to Deborah Calmeyer, CEO and founder of Roar Africa, about empowerment, conservation and her pet lioness; Kim Ayling dives beneath the surface with marine photographer Helen Walne; and Doug Gollan fi nds out why Jim Segrave, fl yExclusive’s founder, chairman and CEO, is part of a larger cause. Roberta Naas also takes a close look at how Chopard’s L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire watch is created: “The assembly of the components alone takes 160 hours — not counting the hundreds of hours of hand- fi nishing of parts and the 17,000 hours of development of the caliber,” she says. Naas also looks at a selection of ‘tool’ watches in our Discover section. Ranging in price from a modest $500 to over $20,000, these adventure-style watches are built for active lifestyles: water resistant to 300 meters, zero oxygen inside the case to eliminate fogging at dramatic temperatures, or vibrant luminosity for easy viewing in the dark. Elsewhere in our Discover section, Elin McCoy makes the case for champagne without bubbles: “You might expect all these wines to resemble red and white burgundies, but they have their own style: lighter, tangier, more lively and vivid, with less richness. They’re expensive, but delicious.” We’ll drink to that.

Alex Martin travels to Cognac for a very special launch of limited-edition cognacs inspired by France’s most prestigious châteaux

KimAyling takes a look at the penthouse at thenew 1Hotel Mayfair in London

Samantha Coles Editor samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com

Samantha Coles visits Croatia with Kensington Tours and enjoys the sunset from her villa’s private beach

CONTENTS

Inspire: Top Adventures Whether it’s venturing into an ice cave or heading on a months-long expedition through several countries, adventure is an ever-blossoming category of luxury travel that always manages to excite Page 6 4

On the cover The J Craft Torpedo is an entirely hand-built boat with 8,000+ man hours going into each one, crafted by J Craft Boats, Sweden.

Photo Charles Ryan

SERENITY BEGINS where CIVILIZATION ENDS

Here,co ff ee and cloves make a healing scrub. Ancient rituals yield modern remedies. Gardens become art galleries. And coquí frogs serenade you to sleep. Welcome to your home at the ends of the earth.

DISCOVER

Contents

4 6 Gra ff Triple Butter fl y Silhouette diamond ring

Discover 35 Object of desire A unique partnership between two German brands has culminated in a special writing instrument with a very intriguing secret. 3 6 Aviation Naomi Astley Clarke trades glamorous residential projects for

Influence 54 Helen Walne Marine photographer Helen Walne speaks to Kim Ayling about overcoming tragedy and her partnership with Mozambique’s Kisawa Sanctuary. 5 6 Jim Segrave fl yExclusive’s founder, chairman and CEO speaks to Doug Gollan about the company’s CEO and founder of Roar Africa, a luxury African safari company that creates custom itineraries, speaks to Irenie Forshaw about why women are integral to her business. 6 0 Chopard L.U.C Full Strike Sapphire watch Roberta Naas takes us behind the scenes at Chopard for a closer look at the meticulous craftsmanship behind one of the house’s latest releases. private journey to become a public company. 58 Deborah Calmeyer

38 Cruises Becca Hensley journeys through India’s Golden Triangle aboard the Ganges Voyager II ona Uniworld river cruise. 40 Yachts Sunreef’s glossy 88 Ultima joins the Polish shipyard’s pioneering line of “hi-tech hybrid power catamarans.”

4 6 Jewelry Roberta Naas guides us through the fi nest nature inspired jewels, ranging from the subtle to the sublime. 48 Motoring In honor of this issue’s adventure theme, Alexandra Cheney brings us a trio of trucks that can handle any terrain.

42 Wine While most famous for its vintage sparkling wines, Champagne’s latest trend — champagne without the beloved bubbles — doesn’t fall fl at. 44 Watches Climbing mountains, cyclingo ff -road or even heading to sub-zero temps? You’ll need a timepiece capable of going the distance too.

private jets with the launch of a bespoke Gulfstream G700 interior concept.

48 RivianR1T Performance Dual MotorAWD

25 elite traveler SPRING 2024

98 The penthouse terrace at Bulgari Paris

elitetraveler.com Elite Traveler ’s Top Hotels of 2023 Last year was a busy onefor the Elite Traveler team. Travel is back bigger — and bolder — than ever, and we’ve had the opportunity to take some truly unforgettable trips. Our writers have picked their most memorable trips of 2023 and shared juicy insider tips to give you some inspiration for your next vacation. TheMost Signi fi cant Restaurant Openings of 2023 Narrowing down the bounty of 2023 restaurant openings is no mean feat, and this list makes no claims to be exhaustive — instead, it is a collection of new openings that have gotten us excited about the joy of dining out, from that fi rst sipofa pre-dinner cocktail to the very last petit four.

Inspire 6 4 Top Adventures In this year’s annual collection of the best itineraries, experiences and adventures on Earth, we’ve covered all bases (and all continents) to bring you the adrenaline pumping, the never-done before and the truly spectacular. 84 TopYachts Miriam Cain explores the rise of the super-tender. Whether your preference is for a custom-built chase boat or a fl oating helipad, there really is no need to settle for the middle ground when it

Explore

114 The Journey A custom day-by-day itinerary with Kensington Tours through the best bits of Croatia, from historic waterfront cities too ff -the-beaten-path culinary experiences with in-the-know locals. 118 HotList Wellness awaits in India for Emma Al-Mousawi, while Alex Martin journeys to France for an exceptional new release inCognac. 124 Property For this issue’s property listings, we had one thing on our mind: Entertaining. Discover our favorite listings from around the world. 128 Flight of Fancy Be serenaded by a private opera performance in the gardens of an exquisite villa on the shores of LakeComo.

98 TopSuites Nicola Leigh Stewart reports from her adopted home of Paris on the City of Light’s most coveted abodes — from historic private quarters fi t for royalty to designer living spaces and marble-clad bathrooms. 108 NewHotels After 23 years and $3.7bn, Fontainebleau Las Vegas opened in December and is already making waves in Sin City. 110 Destination Guide One of the most walkable cities in America, Boston has been undergoing a luxury renaissance in recent years. Michelle Gross takes us on a tour of her favorite spots.

comes to your superyachting experience.

6 4 Songtsam and Land Rover have partnered to create all-terrain driving tours

Photos Elliot Ross, Tommy Picone

elite traveler SPRING 2024 26

Contributors

SAMANTHA COLES

ELLYS WOODHOUSE

TOBYLOUCH Lifestyle features writer

Editor

Digital writer

Samantha has been part of the editorial team for seven years. As editor, she works with our global contributors to bring exciting travel and lifestyle stories from around the world to the pages of Elite Traveler .A sun-seeker she might be, but that hasn’t stopped Antarctica from easily topping the list of Sam’s favorite-ever travel destinations. She visited in 2022 on board Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot —the world’s only luxury ice-breaker. At home in Wales, she’ll either be walking her golden labrador, Rhubarb, or doing CrossFit. Top of your 2024 bucket list? The Arctic Bath Hotel. It’s a ‘ fl oating hotel’ on the Lule River in Swedish Lapland with an open air cold plunge pool and hot tub so you can (hopefully) watch the Northern Lights above.

Ellys joined the Elite Traveler team in January 2024 after having worked for two-and a-half years as sub-editor for a number of our sister publications. As our new digital writer, Ellys will be covering the length and breadth of luxury, from fashion to property — look out for her Property of the Week listings on elitetraveler.com . Inher spare time, you’ll fi ndEllysat her local rock climbing wall in South London, and fi tting in plenty of travel — last year’s highlight was Mexico. Top of your 2024 bucket list? The Basque Country already promises to be a Spanish culinary mecca, but a meal at the three-Michelin-starred Akela ŕ e would be heavenly.

As the magazine’s lifestyle features writer, Toby works across Elite Traveler ’s editorial content, with a particular focus on cars and wine (not together). During his two years with Team ET , Toby has crammed in some amazing adventures — from a helicopter ride over San Francisco toward Napa Valley to an epic expedition cruise around Greenland. The real star of the highlights reel, however, was a trip to Thanda Island, a private island o ff the coast of Tanzania. Top of your 2024 bucket list? I would love to explore America’s South. I have a friend who moved to Atlanta last year and I’d like to visit. It makes sense to call in Nashville and Memphis while I amthere!

KIMAYLING

IRENIE FORSHAW

Deputy editor

Senior writer

Kim has been on the Elite Traveler team for three-and a-half years. In her adopted home of London, a perfect weekend would involve a long stomp in one of the city’s parks and a visit to one of its many art galleries, followed by a cozy dinner — Highbury’s Saltine is top of the visit list right now. On page 54, Kim speaks to South African marine photographer Helen Walne about her artist residency at Mozambique’s Kisawa Sanctuary. Top of your 2024 bucket list? I’m an ‘appreciate the journey’ type, so I’d love to hop aboard a sleeper train. Belmond launched a new Paris-Alps route aboard the Venice-Simplon Orient Express last year and is this year hosting a series of new itineraries with Veuve Clicquot. Choo choo!

London-based Irenie has been on the Elite Traveler team for two-and-a-half years, visiting some of the world’s most coveted sights, from the dramatic crevasses of the Grand Canyon to the inside of Alain Ducasse’s Parisian chocolate workshop. As ET ’s senior writer, Irenie covers hot news in the world of luxury and regularly pro fi les leading industry fi gures, from chefs to conservationists. Last year’s interview highlight was Michael Caines, the British chef behind Michelin-starred Lympstone Manor in Devon, UK. Where are you most excited to visit in 2024? Japan has been top of my bucket list for years; after a pandemic related setback, I’m fi nally going to Tokyo this spring!

ALEX MARTIN

Editor-in-chief

Following a career in sports journalism, Alex traded soccer stadiums for luxury lifestyle and has been an editor at Elite Traveler for fi ve years now. The love of sports didn’t disappear though; ultra marathons are still his idea of a good time. When he’s not running an ungodly amount of miles in a day, you’ll usually fi nd him waxing lyrical (or not) about whisky’s most fantastical new releases — from record-smashing, headline-capturing showstoppers to rare beauties from the dark cellars of little-known distilleries. Where are you most excited to visit in 2024? Forget the immersive cultural experiences — I have my eyes set on the unabashed luxury of Atlantis The Royal, Dubai, to see how it’s doing a year after that grand opening.

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Europe & The Mediterranean: Cradles of Beauty &Culture Spend your days — and nights — immersed in magnificent scenery. Savor the tastes and traditions of a dozen cultures. Revel in landmark sights and uncover hidden secrets. Engage with antiquities in Athens and Ephesus, fresco-graze through Florence, compare vintages in Bordeaux and Porto. Step aboard and be warmly welcomed into a world of comfort and sophistication on Crystal’s reimagined ships, where the crew know you by name and your every nuanced wish is taken care of. ATHENS TO BARCELONA 7 NIGHTS | MAY 3, 2025 — MAY 10, 2025 ABOARD CRYSTAL SERENITY MARSEILLE TO TARRAGONA 7 NIGHTS | MAY 28, 2025 — JUNE 4, 2025 ABOARD CRYSTAL SYMPHONY ROME TO VENICE 9 NIGHTS | JUNE 13, 2025 — JUNE 22, 2025 ABOARD CRYSTAL SYMPHONY TULLY LUXURY TRAVEL CLIENTS ENJOY SPECIAL SAVINGS & AMENITIES OF UP TO $500 PER CABIN ON ALL SAILINGS: 1 (855) 360-7618 tullyluxurytravel.com | travel@tullyluxurytravel.com Café-hop in Monte Carlo, glide around Venice, dance till late in Ibiza. Life is yours to enjoy; this chapter of it doubly so.

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EDITORIAL Editor Samantha Coles samantha.coles@elitetraveler.com Editor-in-Chief Alex Martin alex.martin@elitetraveler.com Editorial Director Thea Halstead Deputy Editor KimAyling Senior Writer Irenie Forshaw Lifestyle Feature Writer TobyLouch Digital Writer Ellys Woodhouse

ADVERTISING Group Sales Director Jiggs Patel jiggs.patel@elitetraveler.com SVP, Multimedia - Lifestyle, North America Corey Zaretsky corey.zaretsky@elitetraveler.com EASTERN US/MIDWEST Director Elaine Rizos elaine.rizos@elitetraveler.com Senior Sales Executive MarcRossi marc.rossi@elitetraveler.com Lifestyle Assistant Phoebe Sebring

Contributing Timepiece Editor Roberta Naas Contributing Motoring Editor Alexandra Cheney Chief Sub-Editor Patti Stallard Group Art Director Henrik Williams Designer David Cooper

phoebe.sebring@elitetraveler.com EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA

Sales Director Anit Mistry anit.mistry@elitetraveler.com Business Development Director Karan Kohli karan.kohli@elitetraveler.com Partnerships Director DavidWade david.wade@elitetraveler.com

CONTRIBUTORS Emma Al-Mousawi, Miriam Cain, Doug Gollan, Michelle Gross, Becca Hensley, Nicola Leigh Smith, Elin McCoy, Rui Ricardo PUBLISHING & MARKETING Senior Vice President, Associate Publisher Lorraine Cousland lorraine.cousland@elitetraveler.com CIRCULATION Circulation Director Randy Silverman randy.silverman@elitetraveler.com

For editorial inquiries, please contact editorial@elitetraveler.com

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SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES Elite Traveler is the only BPA-audited publication for the private jet audience. To make sure you never miss an issue, subscribe to Elite Traveler , the Responsible Luxury Lifestyle magazine. $50 for a single issue. For subscription details, visit elitetraveler.com/subscribe. To keep up to date with the latest private jet lifestyle news, sign up for weekly email roundup LATEST IN LUXURY at elitetraveler.com/eliteaccess

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DISCOVER

Rivian R1T Performance Dual-Motor AWD Built for adventure, the Rivian R1T Performance Dual-Motor has 1 4 . 9 inches of ground clearance (making it nearly impossible to bottom out), a towing capacity of 11 , 000 lbs and no less than 1 7 con fi gurations Page 48

Page 35 Object of desire A unique partnership and a writing instrument with a secret. Page 36 Aviation A delightful conceptual design for a Gulfstream G700jet. Page 38 Cruises Uncover India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges. Page 40 Yachts Sunreef’s 88 Ultima joins the shipyard’s “hi-tech hybrid power catamarans.” Page 42 Wine Thelatest trend, champagne without bubbles, does not fall fl at. Page 44 Watches Tool about with these adventure ready timepieces. Page 46 Jewelry Nature-inspired jewelry ranging from the subtle to the sublime.

Photo Elliot Ross

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DISCOVER

elite traveler SPRING 2024 35

Object of desire by Samantha Coles

The written word There is just something about a handwritten note — the intimacy, the elegance, the precision. It’s why fountain pens have stood the test of time, even in the digital age. Many great works of literature were penned the old-fashioned way, and this fountain pen set — the result of a collaboration between two German manufacturers — includes hand written notes from two great authors. Waldmann has been crafting writing instruments for over 100 years; the company was founded in 1918 in Pforzheim, the traditional German jewelry metropolis in the Black Forest, as a production site for gold and silver mechanical pencils. The production of fountain pens followed and, to this day, Waldmann still manufactures all of its instruments in Germany. Waldmann has partnered with Sekrè, a German luxury handbag company that creates ‘handbags with a secret.’ The not-so-guarded secret is that each bag contains fragments of original handwritten documents by notable historical fi gures such as Queen Victoria and Charles Dickens. There was some outcry about these documents being used in this way; however, many of the bags (which cost up to $7,500) have already sold. Waldmann and Sekrè have combined their expertise to create a limited-edition fountain pen set. The Dame of Swan Court edition holds an original piece of writing by Agatha Christie; the set is limited to just 38 pieces. Private Eye of Baker Street includes a letter written by Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes, and is limited to only 23 pieces. Each set is presented in an elegant case made from precious wood and holds a handcrafted fountain pen made of solid sterling silver with an 18-karat gold nib and a diamondof fl awless quality. Every pen is a numbered and unique specimen, as are the handwritten artifacts. The original letters were procured after 14 months and a search around the world by Sekrè; the letters were eventually acquired in the USA and in England. The entire process was accompanied, recorded and certi fi edby a notary public. All fragments are fi rmly embedded in the wooden cases and secured under acrylic glass. From $22,200, waldmannpen.com

This image The Dame of Swan Court fountain pen Below The full Agatha Christie set

Photo Christian Eppelt

elite traveler SPRING 2024 36

NEW HEIGHTS Naomi Astley Clarke has carved out an enviable reputation as one of London’s most sought-after interior designers. Named as one of Andrew Martin’s top 100 designers in the world, she has worked in the industry for over 25 years. Known for her studio’s effortless blending of fine British craftsmanship with global design flair, she counts film stars and music moguls among her star-studded client list. But her latest project is a little different: The luxury designer has swapped glamorous residences for the interiors of a private jet. Her task? To come up with a conceptual design for a Gulfstream G700 jet. With a cabin spanning 56.11 ft long (excluding baggage) and 8.2 ft wide, it’s a far cry from the sprawling homes of her well-heeled clients. However, when she was approached by a specialist in private aviation and asked to explore how a private plane could be transformed into an extension of the home, she relished the opportunity. “I adore the technical challenge of designing for restrictive, multifunctional spaces,” Astley Clarke tells Elite Traveler . “Every inch has to be accounted for and made the most of, and I think we have found the perfect balance between functionality and beauty.” Staying true to her signature style, the Gulfstream G700 jet interior mixes equal parts luxury and comfort. The result is the type of space that beckons invitingly; it’s somewhere passengers can completely relax and unwind in-flight. Taking inspiration from mid-century modern design, the cabin features plenty of polished walnut, plush velvet chairs and panels of intricate tropical wallpaper. The color palette is primarily neutral, with bold accents of emerald green creating a cozy, home-away-from-home vibe. Astley Clarke chose luxury brass detailing, timber finishes and faux-marble tables for their lightweight properties (but heavy, opulent appearance) to ensure by Irenie Forshaw Aviation

the design met airworthiness requirements and safety regulations. The seating layout on board has been configured to allow for both sleeping and meeting arrangements — a haven for those with a busy schedule. Our advice? Watch this space. If Astley Clarke’s first foray into aviation design is anything to go by, she looks set to become one of the go-to studios for transforming private jet interiors. naomiastleyclarke.com

“Every inch has to be accounted for and made the most of, and I think we have found the perfect balance between functionality and beauty”

Taking inspiration from mid-century modern design, the cabin features plenty of polished walnut and plush velvet chairs

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elite traveler SPRING 2024 38

Cruises by Becca Hensley

The Ganges River in Varanasi, India

THE ITINERARY India’s Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges This soulful 13-day expedition begins in New Delhi, part of the touristic circuit known as the Golden Triangle. The area, historically home to India’s princely rulers, also includes Jaipur (the Pink City) and Agra (anchored by the never-disappointing Taj Mahal). Choose the optional, pre-trip bookend stay in Rajasthan’s vibrant Udaipur, known as the City of the Lakes — today one of India’s top sites for elaborate weddings. Led by exceptional guides, you’ll revel in a world of gem-colored saris, elephants, monkeys, quixotic markets, aromatic scents and historical forts. On day six, fl y to Kolkata, board the Ganges Voyager II , and begin your sail on the Ganges. Along the way, the river’s banks teem with timeless vistas, each direction o ff ering captivating scenes of life. In Kalna, you’ll see Hindu temples; in Matiari, you’ll meet brass craftsmen; and in the Bengali towns of Murshidabad and architecture tour. You’ll learn about the art of henna in Khusbagh and about the Hare Krishna movement in Mayapur, once a French colonial outpost. You’ll end o ffi cially in Kolkata, famous for its fl ower market — but we suggest you add on Uniworld’s extension to Varanasi, the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus of all ages and a soul-stirring city. Maharaja Suite from $11,999 per person. Contact +1 818 382 7820, uniworld.com Baranagar, you’ll ride in a horse-drawn buggy for an

Perhaps we’ve all felt it: that nagging urge for change, rede fi nition, new pathways and deeper understandings. That’s when India calls. A vastly resplendent country, prodigiously textured, outrageously technicolored, spellbindingly ancient, ever welcoming and mysterious; it manages to be both a gloriously indulgent sensory overload and a calmingly clear connection to that proverbial search for the meaning of life. If a quiet ashram — read: monastery — for the study of yoga, chakras and the centuries-old science of Ayurveda seems too extreme for your next transformational travel adventure, boutique Uniworld has something to suit. With the mission to navigate the complex country with clarity, Uniworld has developed a collection of India sailings to immerse guests in the nation’s heart-opening

yoga and spiritual history while exploring a panoply of monuments, foods, sights and unique experiences. Aboard Uniworld’s India river cruises, guests can take advantage of an exclusive wellness program that o ff ers twice-daily yoga classes with an onboard dedicated yogi, holistic living workshops, one-on-one meditation and yoga practices, and daily Indian-focused, educational seminars that unveil the mysteries of an alternative approach to well-being. All the while, guests will be visiting once-in-a-lifetime locales such as the Taj Mahal; staying in the country’s most luxurious hotel; relaxing in palatial staterooms during the sail; tasting the country’s tempting culinary o ff erings; and cruising on the sacred Ganges River past villages full of artisans schooled in techniques passed from generation to generation.

THESUITE Uniworld has received many accolades for its boutique hotel-evoking ships, fl oating inns envisioned and designed to re fl ect the destination. Ganges Voyager II conjures elements of a Maharajah-era palace, its hand-painted murals, glittering bits of gold, sumptuous fabrics and white-gloved sta ff exuding regal appeal. Only 28 commodious suites compose the ship, with space for no more than 56 guests. Each suite encompasses a stately sitting area, a French balcony with fl oor-to-ceiling windows, and a generous bathroom complete with a rain shower and high-end bath products. For the ultimate fl oating sanctuary, book the sumptuous Maharaja Suite, a 400-sq-ft haven featuring hand-carved furnishings, opulent Indian textiles and a deep soaking tub.

Photos Christoph Schmaltz, Uniworld River Cruises, Inc.

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elite traveler SPRING 2024 40

The 88-ft Sunreef 88 Ultima can accommodate up to 10 guests

Yachts by Irenie Forshaw

SEACHANGE When it comes to sustainability, it’s no secret the boating sector has been a little slow o ff themark . While it seems almost every major car manufacturer is making strides in its electri fi cation journey, high costs and complex challenges at sea have made shipyards a touch more hesitant to follow suit. There is, however, a growing handful of options for those seeking a luxury yachting experience — without the hefty carbon footprint. Enter the Sunreef 88 Ultima. The new model forms part of the Polish shipyard’s growing line of ‘hi-tech hybrid power catamarans.’ But what does this mean, exactly? Sunreef has combined custom-engineered batteries with hybrid propulsion and an innovative solar power system to crafta fl eet of zero-emission, energy-e ffi cient yachts. Spanning 88 ft, the glossy new vessel is the largest inthe fl eet and features, like her predecessors, a streamlined black-and-silver hull. This sleek pro fi le ensures she can dock at even the narrowest marinas. Perhaps most impressive is her optimized hull design, which reduces drag to enhance performance while minimizing emissions. The result is an

In October 2023, Sunreef revealed that it had sold its fi rst 88 Ultima to Tim Ciasulli. The powerboat champion, whose racing career has spanned four decades, holds four world speed records and is an avid yachtsman. It seems the 88 Ultima ticked a lot of boxes. “Who else builds a yacht that has almost 4,200 sq ft of living area where you can cruise responsibly, economically and sustainably on solar-powered electric motors and go 35 mph on traditional engines when you need to?” Ciasulli commented, following his purchase. Scheduled for delivery in 2025, the 88 Ultima is certainly one to watch. sunreef-yachts.com

exceptionally smooth cruising experience without the pesky fumes, vibrations and noise that come with traditional diesel-powered boats. With over 4,100 sq ft of indoor living space, the 88 Ultima can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests. There are several di ff erent interior layouts to choose from; our favorite con fi guration features a full-beam master stateroom with a spacious private sauna. And while we’re yet to have a glimpse of the interiors, Sunreef promises light- fi lled spaces adorned with plenty of eco-friendly materials from sustainable woods to recycled plastics and reclaimed fabrics. The shipyard hasn’t forgotten the fun factor, either. Future owners will enjoy a walk-around Ocean Lounge, folding bulwark platforms and an aft garage for storing a fl eet of electric water toys.

TAKETWO// ELECTRIC YACHTS

Silent Yachts, Silent 62 Three-Deck Silent Yachts caused a stir when it launched its solar-powered catamaran, Silent 60, back in 2021. Not one to rest on its laurels, the Austrian shipyard revealed a gleaming new model — Silent 62 Three Deck — with an additional third deck instead of the

BMW and Tyde, TheIcon German car giant BMW teamed up with boat maker Tyde to unveil a futuristic, fully electric, zero-emission yacht. The production ready boat — The Icon (pictured at left) — spans just 42 ft and is equipped with an electric propulsion system that runs on high-voltage batteries. bmw.com

regular fl ybridge. silent-yachts.com

Photo Enes Kucevic

Embrace the spirit of spring at Conrad Los Angeles, where luxury meets the blooming beauty of the season. Situated mere steps from iconic art and music venues like The Broad and Walt Disney Concert Hall, our hotel beckons you into a world of unparalleled elegance. Spend the day at world-class art museums, browsing buzzing European-style markets, and touring the local historic neighborhoods. Take in sweeping views of Downtown Los Angeles from our exclusive rooftop pool and delight in elevated dining experiences sourced from the local Californian Harvest, by Michelin Chef José Andrés.

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elite traveler SPRING 2024 42

Wine by ElinMcCoy

Champagne without bubbles Picture a glass of champagne, the tiny streaming bubbles giving the wine a unique shimmer and sparkle . That famous e ff ervescence is why everyone pours it for celebrations and romantic dinners. Bubbles seem to make us and our lives sparkle too. So it may seem surprising that the region’s latest trend is making wines without that trademark fi zz. But climate change, which is upending many wine traditions, is behind a rush of new still-wine projects. Grandes marques Louis Roederer and Charles Heidsieck have debuted bubble-free chardonnays and pinot noirs, the region’s main grapes, as have cult grower producers Jacques Lassaigne and Marie Courtin. Grower Benoît Déhu released several micro-cuvées from red Meunier grapes, while Drappier’s Trop m’en Faut white is Pinot Gris. Theo ffi cial label term for these wines? Coteaux Champenois. Long ago, all the chilly region’s wines were no- fi zz, but they often weren’t successful. Some years were too cold to fully ripen the grapes and give the wines su ffi cient fl avor concentration. The discovery of how to put bubbles in the bottle — adding sugar and yeast so the wine ferments a second time — was a godsend. It transformed tart, acidic wines into a more palatable style. Blending di ff erent grape varieties and vintages helped.

TAKETWO// COTEAUX CHAMPENOIS 1. 2019 LOUIS ROEDERER HOMMAGE À CAMILLE BLANC COTEAUX CHAMPENOIS The second vintage of chardonnay in Roederer’s collection of still wines is stunning, with lemon and hazelnut aromas, shimmering citrus and chalk fl avors, and a lush texture. It’s from a tiny plot in the Les Volibarts vineyard, and named for Camille Olry-Roederer, who ran the Maison from 1932 to 1975. $200, louis-roederer.com 2. 2020 EGLY-OURIET AMBONNAY ROUGE COTEAUX CHAMPENOIS CUVÉE DES GRANDS CÔTÉS This family-run organic grower producer is a still-wine trailblazer. For decades it has made this superb pinot noir from old vines in grand cru vineyards in Ambonnay. This vintage brims with rose petal and spice aromas and berry and mineral fl avors and has a silky, velvet-like texture. $325, skurnikwines.com

Still wines were quickly sidelined, except in the village of Bouzy and area of Rosé des Riceys, whose pink wines were appreciated by Louis XIV. The few modern trailblazers included Bollinger’s red La Côte aux Enfants, around since 1934. Then, over the past two decades, came climate change. The temperature in Champagne has risen around 2° Fahrenheit in that time — grapes ripen earlier and better, and winemakers started experimenting. One of them is Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, chef de cave at Louis Roederer (maker of Cristal), who observed that his shift to organic and biodynamic farming, plus climate change, produced riper fruit with the emphatic fl avors expected in still wines. After replanting a few special plots with vines from Burgundy, he let grapes get riper than he would for sparkling wines. With the 2018 vintage, he was fi nally happy enough to release the fi rst two. You might expect all these wines to resemble red and white burgundies, but they have their own style: lighter, tangier, more lively and vivid, with less richness. They’re expensive, but delicious. Most producers now make at least one, says Peter Liem, authorof Champagne: The Essential Guide to the Wines, Producers, and Terroirs of the Iconic Region .Andas the climate keeps changing, there will be even more.

Louis Roederer vineyards

Better & Better With reimagined hotels, fresh restaurants, and all-new experiences, Nemacolin resort has blossomed like never before — and the changes around the corner are even more exciting. Reserve your stay today, and get ready for a mountain of surprises. All experiences are exclusive to overnight guests and members.

nemacolin.com 844.873.1708

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Watches by Roberta Naas

TOOLING AROUND

Going places this spring and summer? Climbing a few mountains, hiking the national parks, bicycling across Europe? If so, you need one of these timely instruments on your wrist that can go the distance. Generally referred to as ‘tool’ watches, most of the adventure-style watches prominent in today’s active lifestyles all offer some important feature

watches are made of rugged, durable materials that can hold up under the elements. Some offer additional functions like pulsimeters to measure pulse rate, chronographs to measure distance or speed, altimeters to measure altitude and even compass points to help with direction. In general, these watches boast clean, legible dials, and luminous hands and markers for easy reading in the dark. Here, we take a closer look at seven watches in a wide range of retail prices perfect for your journeys.

ROLEX EXPLORER Having accompanied the fi rst explorers to summit Mount Everest, Rolex aptly continues its Explorer series for today’s adventurers. This 40mm Oystersteel watch is powered by the brand’s in-house-made Caliber 3230 perpetual self-winding mechanical movement that is precise to -2/+2 seconds per day. Thanks to a monobloc middle case and a screw-down case back and winding crown (with Twinlock double waterproof system), the watch is waterproof to 100 meters. It boasts Para fl ex shock absorbers and is a COSC-certi fi ed Superlative Chronometer. It is also incredibly legible in the dark thanks to the proprietary Chromalight display with blue lumen. $7,700, rolex.com

or function relative to the sport you love, whether it’s climbing or kayaking, biking or hiking. Most of these adventure

MONTBLANC 1858 GEOSPHERE 0 OXYGEN SOUTH POLE EXPLORATION

CITIZEN PROMASTER ALTICHRON Powered by light and Citizen’s proprietary Eco-Drive technology, this timepiece will not easily die. A single exposure to light propels it for at least six months in total darkness — sometimes longer. It’s part of the brand’s Land series, and the 47mm Super Titanium case boasts a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating for extra durability. It o ff ers an advanced metric altimeter, electronic compass function and high-legibility luminescence, and is water resistance to 200 meters. $995, citizenwatch.com

Montblanc recently released the new Geosphere 0 Oxygen South Pole Exploration Limited Edition 1990 watch; it boasts zero oxygen inside the case to eliminate fogging at dramatic temperatures or altitude changes. The watch recently accompanied explorer and climber Simon Messner on his South Pole trek at an altitude of 700 meters and -20° Celsius (-4° Fahrenheit). Powered by an automatic movement with world-time complication using Northern and Southern Hemisphere globes, the 42mm watch is crafted of lightweight titanium and boasts an iced blue bidirectional anodized aluminum bezel with luminescent cardinal points, and an iced blue dial. $7,800, montblanc.com

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elite traveler SPRING 2024 45

JAEGER-LECOULTRE POLARIS MARINER MEMOVOX Part of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Polaris collection of tool watches, the Mariner is billed as a dive watch, since the timepiece is fully ISO 6425 compliant with dive speci fi cations and is water resistant to 300 meters. The crown used to set the inner bezel for dive time is also screwed down to avoid unintentional movement. While you may want to take it diving, it is also a great watch for spelunking and other exploration, since the brand has more than a century of expertise in chiming watches; this watch boasts the all-important alarm function for which the Memovox is known. The 42mm watch is crafted in stainless steel and features hands, markers and numerals fi lledwith Super-LumiNova for easy reading in the dark; it is powered by an automatic movement with 44 hours of power reserve. $20,600, jaeger-lecoultre.com

G-SHOCK MASTER G: RANGEMAN Joining an already imp

ROF

pressive

lineup of some of the strongest and most durable G-Shock watches, the GPR-H1000 Rangeman watch challenges the

limits of toughness. It is loaded with outdoor gear requirements like shock, dust, mud and water resistance and o ff ers weather-tracking abilities, as well as a host of other necessary functions when you’re out in the elements. Solar-powered and equipped with Bluetooth technology and GPS functionality to track movement in real time, the watch boasts metal side guards to protect the sensors and GPS antenna, and features a sensor cover created with metal injection molding. With an ultra complex case, the watch o ff ers tracking of distance, time, pace, heart rate, compass, altitude and more. $500, g-shock.co.uk

PANERAI SUBMERSIBLE MARINA MILITARE CARBOTECH Referred to by Panerai’s Paneristi followers as ‘PAM02979,’ the high-tech Marina Militare Carbotech watch is made of an ultra-rugged and durable proprietary material that pays homage to the special forces for which Panerai provides watches. Powered by the 200-part automatic mechanical P.9010 movement equipped with an Incabloc antishock device and o ff ering three days of power reserve, the watch is water resistant to 300 meters. The intense luminosity on this 47mm watch makes for easy reading in the dark. $20,200, panerai.com

TAG HEUER CONNECTED CALIBRE E4 SPORT EDITION Measuring a bold 45mm in diameter, this sport edition Connected watch from TAGHeuero ff ers a wide range of incredibly useful data that includes a trail and hiking app, metric altitude measurement, compass, barometer, heart rate monitor and more. It is crafted in sandblasted lightweight titanium with a ceramic bezel, making it highly durable and scratch resistant. With a host of di ff erent dial modes, the watch also o ff ers a stopwatch, timer and alarm. Using OS2 by Google as the operating system, it also is equipped with GPS coordinates. $2,300, tagheuer.com

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elite traveler SPRING 2024 46

by Roberta Naas Jewelry

All natural With spring in the air, the grass is greener, the skies are bluer, and the plants and animals around us are showing their colors. It is the perfect time to indulge in nature inspired jewelry that ranges from the subtle to the sublime

Ti ff any&Co Inspired by the original Bird on a Rock pendant that was created by Jean Schlumberger in 1965, this third phase of the Bird on a Rock pendant in platinum and gold showcases a diamond-set bird with pink sapphire eyes perched atop a ‘rock’ — a yellow diamond weighing more than 28 carats. Price on request, ti ff any.com

Boucheron These stunning peacock-inspired pieces, from the Plume de Paon collection, are re fl ective of hair jewelry and brooches from this fi ne Parisian jeweler that date back to the late 1800s. The series is now reinterpreted using lightweight titanium for the forms and setting them with diamonds, sapphires, tsavorites and tanzanites for extraordinary depth and color. The collection includes a necklace with detachable brooch, earrings, rings and a bracelet. Plume de Paon earrings from $54,000, Plume de Paon necklace price on request, boucheron.com

Gra ff Subtle yet sparkling, this Gra ff Triple Butter fl y Silhouette diamond ring is crafted in 18-karat white gold and boasts three butter fl ies in fl ight — each one a di ff erent size — that wrap around the fi nger. The open motif and the butter fl ies are both iconic looks for Gra ff . The ring is completely pavéd with diamonds weighing just under half a carat. $7,900, gra ff .com

Fisher Island, Perfected Live on the world’s most private island. Estate-style homes on Fisher Island’s pristine shoreline, steps from the exclusive Fisher Island Club, with its award-winning golf course, tennis facilities, spa, beach club and restaurants. The Residences’ unprecedented amenities and white-glove service set a new standard, with five-star dining, resort-style pools, and a waterfront lounge. It’s the pinnacle of coastal living, minutes from Miami but a world away.

THREE– TO EIGHT–BEDROOM RESIDENCES FROM 3,800 TO 15,570 SQUARE FEET PRICES STARTING AT $15M SCHEDULE A PRIVATE PREVIEW: 6-FISHERISLAND.COM (305) 744-5250

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. New York Residents: THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE FOUND IN A CPS-12 APPLICATION AVAILABLE FROM THE OFFEROR. FILE NO. CP23-0006. WARNING: THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF REAL ESTATE HAS NOT INSPECTED, EXAMINED, OR QUALIFIED THIS OFFERING. THIS CONDOMINIUM HAS ALSO BEEN REGISTERED WITH THE MASSACHUSETTS BOARD OF REGISTRATION OF REAL ESTATE BROKERS AND SALESPERSONS F-1279-01-01. Six Fisher Island Condominium (the “Condominium”) is marketed as The Residences Six Fisher Island and is developed by PRH Parcel 7 Owner, LLC (“Developer” and or “Offeror”), which uses the marks of The Related Group, BH Group, and of Fisher Island under license agreements; however, neither The Related Group, BH Group, nor Fisher Island is the Developer. All owners of a home in the Condominium approved to become lifetime members in the Fisher Island Club (the “Club”) are granted a lifetime Club membership upon the closing of the Condominium home purchase subject to the owner meeting and maintaining all eligibility requirements. The Club determines eligibility for membership and the Developer has no control over the Club’s eligibility requirements. The annual dues and or assessments required for Club membership shall be the member’s cost and is not paid by Developer. The Club membership cannot be redeemed for cash or other goods, services, or materials. This is not intended to be an offer to sell, or solicitation of an offer to buy, a condominium unit to residents of any jurisdiction were prohibited by law. There is no guarantee that the any proposed Condominium amenities, artwork, designers, contributing artists, interior designers, fitness facilities, or restaurants will be available as depicted or at all upon, or following, the completion of the Condominium. Consult the Prospectus of Developer to understand the amenities, proposed budget, terms, conditions, specifications, fees, Unit dimensions, site plans, about Fisher Island, and to learn what is included with purchase and by payment of regular condominium assessments. The project graphics, renderings, photographs, and text provided herein are copyrighted works owned by the respective developer unless otherwise credited. 2024 © PRH Parcel 7 Owner, LLC, with all rights reserved.