NAVIS Dec'23/Jan'24

The 2023 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), a dazzling spectacle in the luxury yachting world, concluded its 64th edition with unprecedented success. Held in the heart of Florida, this premier event set new attendance records, attracting over 100,000 visitors and showcasing over 1,300 boats. FLIBS not only epitomizes the grandeur of luxury yachting but also marks a significant event in the global marine industry, spanning across seven unique locations, including the Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South and the Broward County Convention Center.

The Benetti Superyacht Calex Is a Bastion of Bliss

In the late 1800s, spending time on board any floating craft meant lots of work. Boats moved either by sail, oar, or steam, requiring a great deal of manual effort. Most boats of that time were used for fishing, trade, or other errands of economy. That is not to say that early sailors did not enjoy their time on board, but idle time was not the primary purpose of most voyages.

That all changed in the late 1880s as Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach put their heads together in Stuttgart, outfitting a little boat with their “longcase clock” single-cylinder engine. From that day forward, the face of yachting began to change, embracing pleasure as a major pursuit.

Exotic Opulence of Turquoise 53-Meter Yacht Jewels

Turquoise gemstones own a storied and powerful past. A semi-precious stone of hydrous phosphate copper and aluminum, the stunning color range of these beautiful stones has attracted favor throughout history. 
Ancients in the Middle East, Egypt, and Turkey adorned helmets, weapons, and even mosques, with turquoise, believing it conveyed wisdom, tranquility, and good fortune, while providing protection and hope. It was even believed to symbolize victory, known as firuze in Turkish, piruze in Persian.

As the first light of a crisp November morning filters through the skyscrapers of New York City, our journey from the bustling metropolis to the serene landscapes of Newport, Rhode Island, is about to commence. Before embarking on this exhilarating drive, let’s indulge in the grandeur of our departure point: the Lotte New York Palace Hotel & Towers.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, this iconic hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and a testament to New York’s Gilded Age. Its history, rooted in the late 19th century as financier Henry Villard’s mansion, is evident in its iron-gated courtyard along Madison Avenue. This stately entrance sets the tone for the elegance and sophistication that define the Lotte New York Palace.

As the winter season approaches, outdoor enthusiasts and water sports aficionados alike gear up to embrace the challenges and joys that come with colder climates. In this context, the latest offerings from Helly Hansen, Gill, and Zhik stand out as essential companions for those braving the elements. Each of these esteemed brands has a strong heritage in crafting gear that not only withstands the rigors of winter weather but also enhances the outdoor experience.
Together, these brands provide a comprehensive range of gear that is not just about enduring the cold and wet conditions of winter but also about enhancing the experience of every winter adventurer, whether on water or land. This season, as the temperatures drop and the adventures call, Helly Hansen, Gill, and Zhik stand ready to equip those who dare to venture out into the winter’s embrace.

The crystalline waters of the Adriatic surrounding the coast of Croatia have been attracting a diverse array of sailors over the millennia. From the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians, an array of invaders continued until today’s travelers, who now visit to enjoy its many features. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Croatia’s touristic appeal has been growing exponentially since 2000. 

With a coastline stretching over 1,700 km (1,100+ mi), featuring countless coves and bays, Croatia boasts the most jagged coast in the Mediterranean region. More than 1,200 islands dot these waters and the sailing and yacht charter segments have been keeping pace with the country’s growing appeal. With selling points like warm, sunny weather, historic features blended with charming cities, and a wealth of natural features, it’s no wonder that Croatia just surpassed Greece and Turkey as one of the most popular destinations for yachting. 

As we sail through the final chapters of 2023, the horizon brings more than just the end of another year; it beckons with the allure of new adventures and the perennial quest for the perfect way to commemorate the festive season. Where to anchor for the holidays? How to ring in the New Year with panache? These questions are just the beginning. Equally pressing is the quest for the ideal gifts – those that speak volumes of your appreciation and understanding of the ones who matter most: family, friends, associates, staff, and crew. The stakes are high, and so are the expectations.

This year, the NAVIS team has charted a different course. We’ve navigated the vast expanses of luxury, handpicking experiences and items that not only define but elevate the essence of the yachting lifestyle. From the best charter yachts that graced the seas this year to the most exclusive hotels that offered a haven of luxury, we’ve experienced it all. Our journey didn’t stop there – we’ve dined at the finest tables, driven the most exquisite cars, adorned spaces with unparalleled interior design marvels, and embraced the timeless elegance of select timepieces and writing instruments.

Every item and experience in this guide is a reflection of our journey through 2023 – a curated selection of the best of the best. These are not just recommendations; they’re a collection of experiences and products that have enriched our travels and defined luxury in its truest form. They’re tailored for the luxury traveler – for those who set sail towards the unknown, seeking not just destinations, but memories; not just possessions, but stories.

Embark on this journey with us as we unveil the treasures that made 2023 a year of unmatched luxury and adventure. Each selection in this guide is a promise – a promise that your gift will resonate with the spirit of exploration and the love of the finest things in life.