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Top 15 Superyachts with Helicopters

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Written by Maria Korotaeva

With plenty of various amenities, superyachts offer comfortable and truly opulent travel experience, while yacht helicopters are an essential part of it. Just imagine: you can reach the most remote destinations to explore some hidden gems in the finest yachting locations in the world or land in busy city centres. All that includes total flexibility of point-to-point travelling, getting you to places you need to be at in luxury and style. The magnificent charter yachts nowadays offer the ultimate fun experiences for you and your group, including heli-fishing, heli-skiing and private island dining, due to their capabilities of landing and carrying helipads. Let’s take a look at the top 15 private and charter yachts with helicopters.

1. Amarula Sun (ex. Mine Games)

The incredible 50m charter superyacht Amarula Sun offers everything her guests would wish to have on a charter yacht: a spa pool with a swim-up bar, huge sun pads, BBQ area, gym, Xbox, Playstation, Plasma TV with satellite connection and luxury dining spaces are among her outstanding amenities. Amazing yacht charter experience is guaranteed. The guests have the opportunity of travelling to and from Amarula Sun by helicopter, as her sundeck area can serve as a touch-and-go heli pad. Amarula Sun can sleep 10-12 charter guests and is available for charters in the Bahamas and Florida from US$ 195,000.

Amarula Sun (ex. Mine Games) with helicopter

 2. Cloudbreak

Cloudbreak is certainly one of the most popular superyachts of 2016 . There is no wonder, as the team of acclaimed engineers and designers worked on the naval architecture, as well as her interior and exterior. She is a 72m expedition yacht, capable of cruising anywhere in the world. This head-turning floating masterpiece has some special features including a Jacuzzi, exercise equipment, an elevator operated on all decks, and a large tender garage.  Charter Cloudbreak this summer from €750,000 per week plus expenses.

Motor Yacht Cloud Break – top view. Photo credit @brandondax

 3. Lady Christine

Undoubtedly, the list of the top 15 superyachts and their helicopters has to include a Feadship superyacht. The bespoke Dutch shipyard is best known for building exceptional quality superyachts . Motor yacht Lady Christine is one of those. Not only Lady Christine provides absolute comfort to her guests, but she also has enormous storage space for a rescue boat, a large tender and a small sailing boat. This section of the vessel also serves as a helipad and stores two helicopter fuel tanks.

Lady Christine and helicopter

4. Attessa IV

Upon her re-launch in 2010 Attessa IV became the largest superyacht in North America. She made it to the top 25 largest yachts in the world, and back in 2010 was at the 23rd position. Originally built by  Hayashikane Zosen Kk in 1999 and called Evergreen, she was sold to a new owner in 2007. She underwent an extensive rebuilt by Washington Yachting Group , where she was also extended by 30 feet. Attessa IV accommodates 36 guests, assisted by 21 crew members. This massive five-level yacht measures 100.60 metres and features a helipad on the upper aft deck and forepeak.

Attessa IV. Photo credit @rickyracer

Although Garcon is not an opulent superyacht but a fast yacht support vessel, she deserves the praise for carrying a huge luxurious helicopter, as this is what support vessels are for. Built specifically to serve Lurssen   mega yacht Ace  and to carry her water toys and tenders, Garcon measures 67m LOA.  Garcon also features a fully SOLAS certified helipad with 5,000 kg take-off weight for commercial use. Garson was built and launched in 2012 by Damen Shipyards , and in 2013 was honoured with the ISS Awards of Distinction for Innovation .

Garcon. Photo credit Jeff Brown

Motor yacht Sunrays was launched in 2010 by Oceanco , and in the same year received an award for the “Best Power Yacht over 65 metres” at the ISS Design and Leadership Award Ceremony . Her striking teal coloured aluminium hull is a work of Bjorn Johansson Design , while the interior styling is by famous  Terence Disdale . Sunray’s heavenly interior design is unique, and have an airy and welcoming ambience. Indulge in luxury and add a helicopter ride when booking Sunrays this for charter in the Mediterranean .

Sunrays at Abu Dhabi Yas Marina. Photo @yachthelicopters

If you are into yachts and luxury travelling, you probably know by now that the 155-metre mega yacht Luna is one of the largest yachts with some extraordinary features. She carries a submarine, multipurpose limousines and has not just one, but two helipads. Her 20-metre swimming pool is another wow characteristic. We wish Luna would be available for charter one day, as this expedition yacht could take her charter guests to breathtaking  Galapagos , Alaska and the Pacific .

Luna: Helicopter landing. Photo credit Muscapix

Motor yacht Samar is a 77m steel-and-aluminium luxury motor yacht designed by Laurent Giles and built by Devonport Yachts of England in 2006.  She is a very large and luxurious charter yacht which boasts everything that can be offered on a private motor yacht. Samar is capable of extended global cruising, where her charter guests will never get bored. Samar has a helipad, a large Spa Pool pool, an open bar, large outdoor living areas, a garage, as well as a movie theatre. Accommodation is offered for 12 guests, assisted by a professional crew of 26. Portofino , Naples ,  Capri , Amalfi , Monaco , and France are the places she will be available at for charter in summer 2017. She is available from US$ 650,000 per week plus expenses.

Samar. Photo credit @kdewet

9. Skyfall  (ex. Mi Sueno)

Skyfall is a symbol of a high-quality motor yacht, which features the latest marine technology and exquisite styling. Launched in 2010 by Trinity Yachts , luxury yacht Skyfall measure 58 metres and offers accommodation for a party of 10. Her cabin configuration consists of a master suite, 2 VIP cabins, one double and one twin. Her name comes from the James Bond famous movie series, which implies that this superyacht surely has an outstanding feature. Aboard Skyfall, the guests will have an opportunity to have delicious breakfast prepared by a private chef and continue the day by taking off in a helicopter to explore the best of Mediterranean. The Ionian Islands , Grenadines , Greece , Turkey , East and West Mediterranean , and Croatia is where motor yacht Skyfall will be available for this summer from $275,000 per week plus expenses.

Skyfall. Photo credit @yachthelicopters

10. ICE  (ex. AIR)

Motor yacht ICE became the Superyacht of the Year at the 2006 World Superyacht Awards . No doubt that the title of one the best yachts in the world implies that ICE is a very special vessel. The two famous designers Terence Disdale and Tim Heywood worked on her interior and exterior respectively. The result is the striking exterior profile and divine interior decor. ICE can sleep 14 guests in 7 well-appointed cabins. She has been spotted in various locations with her massive helicopter.

Superyacht ICE. Photo credit Julien Hubert

At 134 metres, motor yacht Serene boasts a huge beam of 18.5 metres. Can you image how much luxury living space is offered on board this beauty? Serene provides a full seven decks of exterior and interior space. With an abundance of amenities, this mega yacht stands out among other luxury yachts. The two helicopter landing platforms, an enormous internal sea water pool, several spa pools, plus storage for a large submarine are some of the superb features. Serene has enough space to accommodate 24 guests and 52 crew members.

Superyacht Serene. Photo credit Mark O’Connell

12. Madame Gu

Madame Gu is a superyacht that has it all for a luxury vacation in style. A helipad, excellent water toys and tenders, a spa pool and a night club guarantee lots of entertainment to her guests. Although Madame Gu is not available for private luxury charters, we still admire this vessel. She was built by Feadship to the design by De Voogt Naval Architects . Her interior is by Andrew Winch . She has 6 lavish cabins to accommodate 12 guests, and 18 crew cabins to sleep 36 crew members. This floating masterpiece was photographed in Port Vell in Barcelona where is always a very welcomed guest.

Madame Gu. photo credit Jeff Brown

 13. Triton

Back in 2004 motor yacht Tritone became the largest composite yacht built in the U.S. upon her delivery. Her capabilities include prolonged cruising distances, as well as cruising in the most distant locations. Triton was built for her owner, who is passionate about sports fishing, deep-sea scuba diving, and water games and various activities. Hence, the yacht was built with an advanced hull laminate schedule utilising carbon fibre to ensure strength and durability. Triton’s red-coloured striking helicopter is seen in the photo of her cruising in the icy waters.

Triton and Helicopter

14. Vibrant Curiosity

Another outstanding superyacht built by Oceanco, Vibrant Curiosity is an 85-metre displacement vessel that turns heads at any port. She was photographers in Auckland , New Zealand with her large helicopter a few weeks ago. This giant luxury vessel can sleep 18 guests in 7 beautifully furnished cabins. A professional crew of 26 professionals take care of everything on board. Vibrant Curiosity reaches a top speed of 20 knots and is powered y a pair of MTU 16V 595 TE70 engines.

Vibrant Curiosity in Auckland. Photo credit CharterWorld

15. Pegasus VIII  (ex PEGASUS V, PRINCESS MARIANA)

At 78.60 metres, luxury motor yacht PEGASUS VIII provides a lot more than you would think. Her amazing interior layout includes a large salon with sophisticated decor, a cinema theatre, formal and casual dining spaces, as well as other great living areas. There are five lavish cabins to accommodate 12 guests. Those who love water activities will love the beach club of Pegasus VIII, which can be “flooded” and therefore provides the easiest access to the water with embarkation and disembarkation inside the yacht. Pegasus VIII is ideal for charter with family and kids . The 12m swimming pool with an underwater light, six wave runners, jet-skis and tenders will add extra enjoyment when on a charter vacation. The helipad on board also transforms into a golf driving range. Secure motor yacht Pegasus for charter in the Italian and French Rivieras this summer, from US$ 650,000 per week plus expenses.

Pegasus VIII. Photo credit @yachtmasters

You can view a great selection of luxury yachts available for charter here . To find out more or to make a booking, please contact our friendly charter brokers . They will be able to assist you with all enquiries, as well as provide impartial advice and professional service. With the Mediterranean yachting season being just around the corner, superyachts are booking up very fast. Check out the 2017 Mediterranean charter specials and 10 brand new superyachts for charter .

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "Top 15 Superyachts with Helicopters".

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YACHTS FOR SALE WITH HELIPAD

Browse yachts for sale with Helipads

Home > Superyachts with helipad

Luxury yachts with helipads

A luxury yacht with a helipad offers complete flexibility. The convenience of owning a yacht with a fully certified helipad can not only increase your time on board but also provides a way to explore uncharted territory and enjoy a yachting experience at its finest. 

When you own or charter a yacht with a helipad, you can fly to your boat, saving considerable time and the potential stress that comes with taking multiple forms of transport. It also makes it easy to reach on-land destinations, from remote terrain to the world’s most elegant cities.

Helipads are generally positioned on the bow of a luxury boat or the aft deck, with careful planning to ensure health and safety regulations are met and that they don’t take up valuable guest space.

From touch-and-go helipads to full-scale helicopter hangars and commercially compliant helipads, here’s what you need to know about buying or chartering a superyacht with a helipad.

Length (ft)

Number of cabins.

• Motor yacht
• 110 m / 361 ft
• OCEANCO - Please enquire
• 18 guests in 9 staterooms

• 107 m / 351 ft

• 105 m / 344 ft

PHATHOM 80M

• 80 m / 262 ft
• TBD - Please enquire
• 12 guests in 7 staterooms

• 74 m / 243 ft
• PROTEKSAN TURQUOISE - Please enquire
• 14 guests in 7 staterooms

STELLA MARIS

• 72.10 m / 237 ft
• VIAREGGIO SUPERYACHTS - 2015

T700 MILANO

• 70 m / 230 ft
• TANKOA - 2028

• 68 m / 223 ft
• TANKOA - Please enquire

CYNTHESIS 180

• Catamaran yacht
• 58.3 m / 191 ft
• 12 guests in 6 staterooms

• 55 m / 180 ft
• HEESEN - 2011

• 51.56 m / 169 ft
• WIDER - 24 months

Nothing matches the prestige of owning a superyacht and joining an exclusive club of yacht owners. A superyacht puts the world at your fingertips, giving you the freedom to travel whenever, wherever all while enjoying a highly exclusive and private experience onboard your own self-sufficient sanctuary. Cruise bluewater havens or explore the world’s most remote regions aboard a luxury yacht with loved ones. YACHTZOO offers an exquisite selection of superyachts for sale. Our luxury yachts for sale are built by the world’s most esteemed shipyards and boast world-class amenities, pioneering cruising technology, and the finest craftsmanship.

Yacht Sales FAQ

What are the benefits of a superyacht with a helipad.

Having a helipad on board a superyacht is a highly desirable feature, especially with charter guests seeking an elevated experience at sea. There are several benefits, including convenience, easy access, privacy, and enhanced peace of mind in the event of an emergency.

Fast & private transportation

The primary benefit of a helipad on a yacht is that it allows for fast and private transportation of guests to and from the boat, avoiding lengthy tender rides and allowing guests to explore their surroundings further.

Ideal for extreme sports

A helipad can also be used for extreme sports, such as helicopter water skiing and heli-skiing, ensuring an incredible experience on the water.

Peace of mind

Having a fully certified helipad also provides enhanced peace of mind. Should there be, for example, a medical emergency, you have complete peace of mind that a swift transfer to a land-based medical centre can be quickly arranged.

Maximise a yacht's potential

A mega yacht with a fully certified helipad is highly desirable and will typically attract a higher resale value. Additionally, yachts with helipads are particularly sought-after charter yachts, enabling owners to maximise their boat’s income potential. Finally, a yacht's helipad can also be repurposed, and the large deck space cleared for a variety of activities, such as a dance floor at night and a recreational space during the day.

How big does a yacht have to be to have a helipad?

Generally speaking, a yacht must be at least 40-metres to accommodate a helipad on the bow. Boats under 40-metres generally do not have space to have a helipad on the bow, but clever design means that it may be possible to accommodate a touch-and-go helipad on the stern.

What is a touch-and-go helipad?

A touch-and-go helipad is a type of landing pad for helicopters that allows for quick take-offs and landings without stowing the aircraft on the yacht. It is becoming increasingly common on luxury superyachts and can be a significant bonus for yacht charterers, providing a quick and convenient way to access the vessel. Having a touch-and-go helipad on a yacht can also increase a boat's resale value and charter potential.

Can a yacht have more than one helipad?

Yes, it is possible to have more than one helipad on a yacht, depending on its size and layout. Multiple helicopter decks are often found on the world's largest mega yachts and expedition vessels, allowing for multiple helicopters to be stored at the same time. Having two helipads or more can be especially useful for vessels that accommodate a large number of guests or crew members who may need to travel to different locations at the same time.

What other amenities will a yacht with a helicopter deck have?

As helicopter decks are typically found on larger vessels, you'll also benefit from an enhanced selection of amenities. The world's finest superyachts typically boast voluminous beach clubs, swimming pools, spa facilities, cinema rooms, fully equipped gyms, VIP suites, and spacious salons and deck areas. They also typically boast a garage filled with tenders and a fantastic selection of water toys, including jet skis, water skis, inflatables, diving equipment, kayaks, submarines, and more.

How can YACHTZOO help me find a luxury yacht with helipad?

YACHTZOO has access to the finest yachts with helipads for sale and charter. Our yachts are built by the world's finest shipyards and boast enviable amenities and luxurious interiors for an enhanced yachting experience. Whether you are seeking a charter yacht with a helipad or wish to buy a boat with a helicopter pad, contact our team of yacht brokers today.

Browse our yachts for sale or contact YACHTZOO’s sales brokerage team; they will be delighted to help you find your ideal superyacht for sale.

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Super High: The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Helicopters

The perfect way to soar your yacht to new heights.

Wide-open waters? Check. Great company? Check. Your sparkly new superyacht? Double-check. There can only be one thing missing in this picture: an impressive helicopter for the ultimate grand entrance.

When you’ve already invested so much into the yacht of your dreams, there’s got to be a little extra room (literally) for a special delivery—you. Read on to discover all of our tips and tricks for your very own tantalizing yacht helicopter.

1. Easier Access

Your yacht is the most lavish way to travel in style, right? So why bother adding one more mode of transportation to your already fully capable vessel, you may be asking yourself. The answer is in the air! Having a helicopter on your superyacht allows you to get to places you never thought possible. While there may not always be a place to dock your yacht in certain luxurious locations, having a helicopter onboard allows you access to even the most exclusive spots. You’ll be able to visit so many more destinations on your well-earned journeys—the sky’s the limit.

Navigate to hard-to-reach locales with this yacht charter: OCTOPUS | 414′ Lurssen

2. Destination: Transportation

Having a helipad onboard your superyacht isn’t just about reaching the most beautiful destinations in the world, although that’s reason enough. It also serves a seemingly obvious need: arriving at your megayacht to begin with. Have a meeting in the city but the yacht is docked at the bay? Hop into your helicopter for a straight shot flight to your weekend getaway, with zero hassles along the way. Having the added transport option makes everything seamless from beginning to end, no matter where you’re coming from or where you’re going.

Transport yourself with ease with this superyacht: BOLD | 279’ SilverYachts

3. Glorified Grandeur

Your megayacht is your pride and joy, as it should be. It was no easy feat to attain such a vessel, and having a helicopter aboard only drives that point home. With an aircraft aboard your yacht, the luxury reaches new heights. The upscale feel, exclusive usability, and added ease all bring your adventures to a caliber of their own. There is nothing like a personal helicopter aboard a superyacht to up the wow factor.

Cruise in style with this yacht charter: PLANET NINE | 240′ Admiral Yachts

4. A Whole New View

While endless views of the open water can be a sight for sore eyes, having a helicopter onboard brings on a whole new perspective. Enjoy the best of both worlds with views from both the sea and sky. A perfect vacation has a little of everything, and you’re getting just that with the limitless aerial views in the finest destinations around the globe. Sightseeing will take on a whole other level when your altitude rises!

See the sights with new eyes with this yacht charter: SURI | 208′ Halter Marine

5. Taking Sports to the Extreme

No matter what your sport of choice, a helicopter aboard your mega yacht will only add to the fun and adventure. Big on scuba diving? Get to your dive site with the ease of your helicopter. Love photography? The aerial shots from above will be unmatched. Thrilled by cliff diving? Reach cliff tops with a quick flight. Interested in whale watching? Soaring the skies will give you an eagle eye’s view to spot all sorts of marine life. Even piloting can become a reality and your newest hobby. Every interest can truly be appeased with an aircraft at bay.

Get your game on with this superyacht: TIME OFF | 182′ Support Yacht Damen Yachting

6. Time Is on Your Side

We all know that time is money. With fully packed schedules, every minute is precious. Having a helipad on your superyacht saves so much time that would otherwise be wasted—be it in traffic, at the airport, or getting to your destination. With the ease and flexibility of helicopters, you and your guests can promptly reach your yacht’s location at an unimaginable speed. If flying directly from a city, time that would have been spent in endless traffic is spared. If picking you or your guests up from a nearby airport, the comfort and speediness are unparalleled. Transit times are severely reduced, allowing more time to sit back and relax.

Maximize your time with this yacht charter: SUNRAYS | 280′ Oceanco

7. Safety First

One of the biggest and most important benefits of having a helicopter easily available aboard your superyacht is for safety reasons. With very clear FAA safety regulations for helicopters, this mode of transportation proves to be one of the safest options for getting to and from your vessel. In addition, having a helicopter available in the event of an injury or a passenger getting sick is a critical benefit. Being able to evacuate a guest in an emergency may even be the difference between life and death. Even on vacation, accidents can happen. With the safety of travelers at the top of mind, these advantages are of the utmost importance and can ensure a safe and pleasant trip.

Travel with peace of mind with this yacht charter: AIR | 265′ Feadship

8. Specialized Design

Helipads add a sense of wonder and aesthetic to your superyacht. However, it doesn’t stop at good looks. Shipbuilders work together with aviation pros and designers to find the ideal location to place a helipad. Teams work by the Commercial Yacht Code of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to meet all necessary standards during construction. With a large amount of space needed to place a helicopter landing deck on a superyacht, attention to detail and impeccable design are paramount. You’ll know you’ve got the best of the best.

Transform big dreams into reality with this yacht: PROJECT METAVERSE | 207’ Delta

No matter how you look at it, having a helicopter on your superyacht changes the game. A helicopter ups the ante in all arenas, from fun to design to safety. Make sure your yacht includes this high-class feature. Contact a Denison yacht broker to upgrade your yacht and you’ll be flying high, too.

Speak with a Superyacht Specialist:

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Top five largest superyachts for sale with helicopter decks

Time is money as the age-old saying goes, and the swiftest way to get to your superyacht is surely by helicopter. Here we present the five largest superyachts for sale equipped with helicopter decks to make for easy entrances and exits.

Moran Yacht & Ship is offering the 75.5m motor yacht Northern Star for sale. Her design is by Espen Oeino and she was built by German superyacht yard Lurssen with a launch in 2009. British designer Pauline Nunns gave the yacht's voluminous interior an 'English country house' style and she comfortably accommodates 12 guests in six staterooms with room for as many as 26 crew. Guest accommodation comprises a master suite, VIP stateroom, two doubles and two twins. All have en suite bathrooms.

She is helicopter capable, and among the many special features of Northern Star is an ice-classed hull and a range of 7,000 nautical miles. With a cinema, beauty salon and gym, she combines the luxury of a pedigree superyacht with the go-anywhere capabilities of an expedition yacht.

_Northern Star _is asking 115 million.

Dutch superyacht yard Amels built the helicopter-capable 64.5m motor yacht _Aquarius _to an exterior and interior design by Terence Disdale and delivered her in 2007. The owner's large family meant that accommodation space was at a premium and it is now possible to sleep up to 12 guests in six staterooms. These comprise a master suite and five doubles and all have en suite bathrooms.

Lloyds classed and MCA compliant, twin 2230hp Caterpillar engines give Aquarius a range of 5,250 nautical miles and the asking price has been set at 69.9 million at Fraser Yachts.

Elements of strength, power and beauty come together to shape the 63.7m motor yacht Sokar . Designed and built by the Italian superyacht yard Codecasa and delivered in 1990, _Sokar _is one of the most outstanding superyachts of her era. Accommodation is for as many as 18 guests in nine staterooms comprising a master suite and eight double cabins all with en suite facilities. An impressive cruising speed of 18 knots and a 6,900 mile range make her ideal for worldwide cruising.

She received a major refit in 1997 and 1999 at the Abeking & Rasmussen Shipyard in Germany including extending the yacht by five metres, installing a heli-deck and her paintwork, machinery, emergency and safety equipment are just some of the items that were renewed or improved drastically.

Burgess are offering Sokar for sale asking $15.9 million.

The 58.7m explorer yacht _Bleu de Nimes _was built by England's Clelands yard as a naval minesweeper with a helicopter deck and completed in 1980. However, she never saw service and was eventually bought by a knowledgeable owner who had her converted into a luxury yacht in 2006. She now has two large decks within her hull giving huge spaces for the owner and guests. Her interior, designed by Pier Vittorio Cerruti, accommodates as many as 21 guests in nine staterooms comprising a master suite, four doubles and four twins plus three Pullman berths.

Twin Cummins engines give her a range of 2,000 nautical miles, and she is asking 25 million at Edmiston & Company

The 57.9m motor yacht_ Mi Sueno_, delivered by US superyacht yard Trinity Yachts in 2010, features a sophisticated, contemporary interior designed by Patrick Knowles. A large saloon has comfortable seating, a 50 inch television screen and formal dining for 14 guests. 14 guests are accommodated in seven superior staterooms. The split-level master suite is located on the main deck and is full beam, with a king size bed, private study, private lounge and his and hers baths.

Two double VIP staterooms below have king size beds while two further doubles have queen size beds and there is a twin cabin with a Pullman berth. All staterooms have 42 inch television screens and en suite facilities.

Mi Sueno also features touch-and-go helicopter capability, a tender garage and a passenger elevator through three decks with wheelchair access. ABS classed and MCA compliant, she was designed for a transatlantic range, but also has a draft suitable for cruising the Bahamas and US East Coast. She has a maximum speed of 20 knots and a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 10 knots.

Mi Sueno is listed for sale by Worth Avenue Yachts asking $36,950,000.

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Charter Yachts with a Helipad

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There is no better life experience to tick off the bucket list than a luxury yacht charter. With a private yacht charter through FGI, you will experience the finest yachts featuring a helipad. Whether you are looking for a simple touch and go or a fully certified helipad, our team can source the finest yachts. 

Arrive in Style

Elevate your luxury charter yacht experience with the addition of a helicopter. One of the most extravagant and convenient modes of transportation, the sight of a superyacht with a helicopter perched on deck is one of the boldest and unforgettable scenes of the charter world.

The Ultimate Freedom

Experience complete freedom and convenience: Charter Yachts with a Helicopter

When chartering a luxury yacht with a helicopter, both the sky and sea are within your reach. Enjoy the freedom of travelling further than your charter yacht. New experiences, whether it is flying above lush volcanoes in the Caribbean, heliskiing in Scandinavia or landing your helicopter on the icy terrain of Antarctica, await you. For bold and adventurous charterers, no charter yacht is complete without a helicopter. Offering the ultimate freedom, it also is the ultimate convenience as you can travel directly from your yacht inland to the most sophisticated and glamorous cities, from Miami to Monaco.

Yachts for Charter with a Helipad

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Articles Top 5 Helicopters for Superyachts

The world of private helicopters has presented an unparalleled level of efficiency for the most discerning superyacht owners.

Radically reducing journey time from shore to ship, and ensuring you arrive in ultimate style and privacy, superyachts and helicopters are a match made in heaven. Here’s our top five from the ever-growing range of superyacht helicopters to choose from. 

1 Airbus ACH145

Perhaps offering the most natural synergy between helicopter and yacht is the Airbus ACH145 . With a small footprint ideal for a superyacht helipad, and a flexible cabin able to transport eight to ten guests in airborne luxury, this rotorcraft is unquestionably a top choice to adorn the deck of any superyacht. With over eight possible configurations, the ACH145 offers the industry’s most versatile cabin for the ultimate passenger experience. From the stunning interior choices Airbus provide, to a VIP fit out from a collaboration with Mercedes-Benz offering the style and class synonymous with the German luxury car brand, this superyacht helicopter combines best-in-class comfort with a staggeringly quiet ride which enables sightseeing from above or mid-air business meetings to take place unhindered by rotor noise. The helicopter of choice for the upcoming largest superyacht in the world, 182.9m REV Ocean, the AHC145 combines impressive performance with the latest in safety equipment, including advanced autopilot systems to offer the complete superyacht helicopter package that guarantees a safe and comfortable flight.

2 Airbus ACH160

Superyacht helicopters must strike a fine balance between speed, comfort, and style. From affording passengers enough interior volume to ensure a comfortable flight, to being compact enough to fit on the deck of a yacht, designing such a piece of machinery is no small feat. The company responsible for designing the most capable helicopters for the job to date is Airbus, and with their all new ACH160 they have raised the bar yet again. Bringing the cutting edge of helicopter design to the fore, a composite airframe, impressive fuel efficiency, and a whisper-quiet ride thanks to a shrouded tail rotor, and Blue Edge rotor blade design, the ACH160 carries 12 passengers to the deck of their superyacht in total comfort. While its large side windows create a light flooded cabin to illuminate the stunning interior concept from renowned superyacht designer Harrison Edisgaard, the ACH160 also embraces new technology to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. A truly innovative product that is a far more sustainable mode of transport compared to its traditionally designed counterparts, the ACH160 is the height of aerial style and sophistication.

3 AW109 Trekker

From the renowned Agustawestland the AW109 Trekker is the first ever fully Italian-built helicopter to be mass produced. With its best-in-class lifting capability and impressive range of 447NM, the AW109 Trekker offers an unmatched level of utility for a light-weight superyacht helicopter. Accommodating six passengers in a spacious and versatile cabin, the AW109 effortlessly transports its guests wherever they wish. A brilliantly soundproofed and elegantly styled interior affords passengers a quiet and comfortable ride, so a short hop from ship to shore, or visiting a remote island destination further afield is effortless. Boasting wide sliding doors for easy access, an extended baggage compartment so guests can bring all the luggage they desire, and rugged skid landing gear for true go anywhere capability, this helicopter brings a new dimension to life at sea. Able to explore even the hardest to reach destinations with complete peace of mind thanks to state-of-the-art safety features, the AW109 is the perfect addition to any explorer superyacht big enough to accommodate this 42-foot beauty.

Designed for short-medium flights and touchdowns in tight spaces, this helicopter is ideal for any superyacht platform. As one of the most compact five-seat helicopters on the market, the Bell 505 punches well above its weight. Packing an integrated glass flight deck, and Garmin G1000H avionics suite with twin 10.4in LCD screens into a five-seat platform is a truly masterful piece of helicopter design. While compact, with a main rotor just 11.2m wide and fuselage only 13m long, the Bell 505 does not forgo comfort. A luxurious and open Italian-designed interior, and glass cockpit, affords passengers an uninterrupted view to admire their yacht from a new angle in total comfort.  An ideal helicopter to fit on any superyacht platform, the lightweight design provides impressive performance and versatility. While the two bladed rotor is an effective solution to offer powerful lift and limit drag, the quick release seats, flat floor, and large baggage compartment provide a great option for transporting luggage or supplies from land to sea. Stylish, sporty, and practical, superyacht helicopters don’t get much better.

5 Bell FCX-001

Still just a concept but one of the most exciting prospects in the aviation industry, the Bell FCX-101 is a crescendo of technology yet to make it into helicopter production. A window into the future of what your superyacht helicopter may, one day, look like, this rotorcraft is touted to be powered by a hybrid propulsion system and incorporates a revolutionary anti-torque system within the tail boom rendering the tail rotor obsolete. The FCX-001 presents a significant step change in what helicopter design can be. By combining the benefits of the proven turboshaft engine with the rapidly evolving world of electric propulsion, a new level of efficiency could be achieved. Debuted at the Heli-Exbo 2017, this stunning concept utilises the bleeding edge of heli design in every area. From the pilot using augmented reality in the cockpit for near autonomous flying, to morphing rotor blades that adapt to different flight scenarios, and an ingenious interior with modular flooring design for the most versatile cabin ever, this gull winged rotorcraft for the future is set to change the landscape for superyacht helicopter transport forever.

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Yachts with Helipad

Charter yachts are known for offer the best in first-class travel. Wake up each morning in your own private stateroom, and take in the sunrise over the Mediterranean, Caribbean or Adriatic, while a member of the crew brings you a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

Doesn’t get better than that, right? Not to mention, superyachts are laden with amenities, from water toys, to immaculate interiors, and sun-soaked decks, perfect for relaxing. Yet, there’s one feature that’s available on only a select group of charter yachts: Helicopter pads .

A yacht with a helicopter deck opens up a world of travel possibilities. Arrive on your yacht at sea, take a stunning helicopter tour of a nearby wildlife refuge or glacier, or skip the tender on your way to the airport – those are all possibilities aboard a yacht with a helipad.

Super Yachts with Helicopter Pads

Technically, superyachts are fully crewed boats that measure 24 meters or longer (that’s just about 75 feet). That definition doesn’t reflect the times. Superyachts have gotten larger and more opulent than ever, with designers pushing the bounds of what’s possible.

Naturally, yachts with helicopter decks tend to be larger – north of 200 feet. These larger-than-life yachts are some of the most exclusive charter superyachts with helipad access:

The beautiful Solandge is one of the most unique yachts on the market today. Her interior, for example, the work of Rodriguez Interiors and Dolker & Voges, features countless design surprises. The main salon is a stunner. It’s decked out with amethyst walls, gold leaf ceilings, a Bechstein piano and Schonbeck chandeliers with hanging amethyst rose quartz crystals. Yet, the centerpiece is an art glass sculpture, “The Tree of Life,” that stretches 50 feet high and is bedazzled by 1,000+ points of light.

Outside, Solandge shows her sheer size. She boasts a sexy beach club, a gold and white bar, a spa pool and a dance floor, among other opulent luxuries. Of course, you’ll find the helipad outdoors, too, as well as a sprawling sun deck and lounge. The yacht is maintained by a crew of 29 and can accommodate 12 guests in eight large cabins.

Originally built by Icon in 1974, Legend underwent its most recent refit in 2016. The ship isn’t a traditional motor yacht. Rather, she’s a fully certified Class 1 ice-breaking ship, and more recently has been turned into a luxury explorer yacht.

Legend is definitely one-of-a-kind. Inside and out, she offers the best in luxury yachting. The ship accommodates up to 26 guests – in total luxury – in her 13 staterooms. There’s a master suite, two VIP suites, as well as 10 different staterooms.

The yacht is built for exploration. In addition to her commercial helipad, Legend features her very own submarine. Plus, adding to the undeniable allure is a gym, Balinese spa and sauna, a Jacuzzi, a movie theater, and a swimming pool. Legend is maintenance by a crew of 19, as well as a 10-member expedition crew, including doctors, ice pilots, expedition leaders and naturalists.

NAIA was built by Freire Shipyard in 2011, and she offers an abundance of space for relaxing and entertaining. Spread across four decks, the yacht has six guest suites and a master suite, the latter of which takes up the entire “penthouse” level and includes a private deck. A central spiral staircase connects all of the decks, and the master suite is accessible through an elevator that goes as low as the sundeck.

As for the common areas, NAIA has plenty of areas for guests to choose from, including a cinema room. The main saloon is both inviting and intimate, with ultra-comfortable plush couches and a chic contemporary décor. A dining table can seat up to eight people, and is surrounded by a smaller sitting area, a small bar and plenty of artwork. Outside, charter guests onboard will find casual seating and bar areas, al fresco dining, another bar, a Jacuzzi, and plenty of places to sunbathe.

Built by Abeking & Rasmussen in 2016, Cloudbreak is a truly world-class expedition yacht. The exterior design of Cloudbreak is the work of Espen Oeino, and the Scandinavian-inspired interior design was completed by Paris-based Christian Liaigre. After undergoing four years of development, this custom-built mega yacht is finally on the market, and it offers a world of adventure.

In addition to her helipad, the yacht has a fully stocked garage of water toys, including scuba equipment, jet skis, and numerous kayaks, paddle boards and kite surfing rigs. Inside, though, the yacht is a show stopper. With accommodations for up to 12 guests, as well as amenities like a spa with sauna, swimming pool and beach club, Cloudbreak is designed for relaxing excursions.

Enigma XK was first built by Richards Shipbuilders in 1987, and last refit in 2013. Previously named Norna, this yacht is the work of Vitruvius and Philippe Briand, who completed its interior and exterior design, respectively.

The sleek interior is marked by cream and white tones, light woods, lit flooring, and a glamorous aesthetic. There is a full-scale wellness and fitness center onsite, and this boat was named “Best Yacht Conversion” winner of The World Superyachts Award in 2014. Perfect for adventuring through ice-filled waters, Enigma XK offers plenty of toys for exploring, including a 9-meter Limo tender, an R.I.B. tender, a rescue tender, two Zodiac tenders, multiple wave runners, SCUBA diving and snorkeling equipment, a dive compressor, water skis, a wake board, tow toys, inflatable pontoons and more.

SuRi was built by Halter Marine/Yacht Escort Ships International in 1978, and later refit in 2016. An ideal yacht for travel with family and friends, SuRi is the brainchild of its owner. Its décor is both comfortable and contemporary, with expansive cabins and elegant living areas. Plus, the yacht boasts a fitness center, a massage room, and even a “Windows to the Sea” section of the yacht, where travelers can get a glimpse of all of the colorful fish swimming around them.

Outside, guests can dine al fresco on the sun deck, relax in the Jacuzzi, sunbathe, or enjoy a sunset cocktail in front of a backdrop of amazing views. If you’re a more adventurous charter guest, the water toys onboard SuRi won’t disappoint. In addition to the helipad, there are bikes, snorkel equipment, surfboards, kayaks, fishing gear, diving equipment and even a 35-foot Stan-Craft mahogany speedster. On SuRi, the choices are endless.

Built in 2018 by Golden Yachts, O’Ptasia is a stunning superyacht that features a wide array of world-class amenities. The yacht features a high-end contemporary aesthetic inside, including sleek and spacious salons and expertly appointed guest staterooms. She accommodates up to 12 in 11 rooms, including a master suite, VIP stateroom, as well as a variety of double and twin cabins.

Her exterior is a masterpiece of nautical engineering. Featuring expansive decks, including a sizable beach club and breezy sun deck, the yacht is a floating five-star hotel. You’ll find all of the amenities onboard: A spa, an outdoor bar, sun deck Jacuzzi and much more.

The ice-classed explorer yacht Planet Nine was built in 2018 by Italian shipyard Admiral Yachts. Built for explorations in the far corners of the world, no expense was spared on her construction. Inside, the yacht is the epitome of opulence.

Designed by London-based Milnaric, Henry and Zervudachi (MHZ), the superyacht has a full range of luxury amenities: Modern staterooms, including a master suite that takes an entire deck, a panoramic observation deck, and an immaculate dining area.

Yet, the ship is certainly designed for exploration. Outside, the yacht’s most recognizable feature is the helipad, which features a garage just below. Additionally, you’ll find everything on board for a high-seas adventure, including two 32-foot tenders, 120-inch cinema, steam room, sauna and a spacious beach club.

Charter Yachts with Helicopters

Looking for something a bit more compact? It’s true that a 200+ foot yacht isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, if you’d like to charter a helicopter-equipped yacht, there are plenty of options in the 130- to 200-foot range. Here are a few of our favorites:

With sleek exterior styling and a timeless interior, Skyfall offers the best in Caribbean yachting. The yacht was built in 2010, but underwent a complete refit in 2015. Today, she’s gorgeous inside and out.

Her interior features an “urban contemporary” aesthetic, with notes of Buddhist Zen, and you’ll notice when you step on board. Featuring an array of unique materials, including petrified tree trunks as well as a Tiger’s Eye bar in the sky lounge, the yacht is designed for entertaining (with space for up to 12 guests).

Outside, Skyfall offers plenty of deck space. Her sun deck features a splash pool, and there’s space for alfresco dining on the aft deck, a beautiful skylounge, and a panoramic balcony.

Tommy is a luxury motor yacht built by Benetti in 1995. It underwent its last refit in 2014 and boasts an interior and exterior design by Terence Disdale and Stefano Natucci, respectively. This yacht is large enough to host a cocktail party for up to 100 guests.

The interior of Tommy is both elegant and classic, with cream and burnt orange tones, and light wood cabinets and paneling throughout. The main salon is large and comfortable and comes with plush sofas and impeccable décor. There is a formal dining area, as well as a club-style sky lounge with a games table and a flat screen TV.

Outside, guests will find spots for alfresco dining, a sun deck, multiple bar areas, a central spa pool, multiple sunbeds, and of course, the helipad. From the swim platform, guests have access to countless water toys, including: a 5.8-meter Novurania Tender, a 5.8-meter Novurania Tender, two two-person Kawasaki Wave runners, water skis, a wakeboard, tows and plenty of snorkeling gear. Tommy can accommodate up to 12 guests.

True North offers the ultimate oasis of luxury for your Australia or Southeast Asian expedition. The yacht, which was built in 2005, is fully equipped for explorations. She features six tenders, as well as her own Eurocopter EC 130 helicopter.

On-board, the experience is incredible. True North features a spacious layout, with accommodations for up to 36 guests. The yacht includes 18 rooms, including 10 double cabins and 8 twins, and she’s designed for fun exploring the Great Barrier Reef. You’ll find a variety of water toys and equipment including: Dive compression, dive equipment, a jet ski, and plenty of fishing gear.

Built in 2006, Tango is a luxury superyacht that charters primarily in Australia. With accommodations for up to 8 guests, Tango offers complete comfort on the open seas. The yacht features a deck Jacuzzi, as well as beautiful sun deck.

Looking to enjoy the waters? Tango offers a full array of water toys including a jet ski, paddleboard, kayaks, fishing equipment and snorkel gear. She’s also equipped with two tenders, and of course, the helipad.

Smallest Yacht with Helicopter Pad

An on-board helipad traditionally means a spacious yacht. Yet, there are a number of boats that accommodation copters, but have a smaller footprint. If you’re headed out with a small group, but want the luxury of a helipad, these yachts are perfect:

They say big things come in small packages, and that’s certainly true of Flying Fish. This yacht – built in 1991 and refit in 2010 – offers the perfect platform for small-ground adventures. She sleeps up to 8 in four rooms, including a stunning master suite. And her interior features a chic, upscale décor and plenty of deck space for entertaining.

Plus, the yacht’s wide array of toys including scuba equipment, snorkeling gear, fishing equipment and sea kayaks. She’s equipped with a fully certified helipad – perfect for a low-key Barrier Reef excursion.

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Yacht With Helicopter For Sale : A Practical Indulgence

There’s no more striking sight in the superyacht world than a helicopter perched on deck anchored in a beautiful setting, and it’s always a thrill to descend on your yacht from the skies, watching the blades churn up the turquoise sea below.

A yacht with a helicopter gives the yacht owner or charterer ultimate freedom to explore, whether you want to go summer skiing via helicopter from your yacht in Alaska, take scenic flights across volcanoes and jungle in the Caribbean, or simply have the convenience of being able to fly to a nearby city for work or pleasure at a moment’s notice.

When you’re holidaying on board a yacht with helicopter, you can begin your charter in superb style by landing on the yacht’s helipad, where the crew will be waiting to greet you. The next morning you might take a breathtaking helicopter ride to a distant island for a glamorous dining and spa experience, or indulge yourself with a helicopter shopping trip along the French Riviera from Monaco to Saint Tropez.

Effortless Cruising, Always in Reach

A yacht with a helicopter means that everything is in easy reach. If business calls from the Hamptons or you fancy a night out in New York, you just step onto your helicopter and fly away, rather than having to organise tender transfers ashore to a nearby airport, or spending the time relocating the yacht to the closest marina.

A luxury yacht vacation is already considered the most opulent and relaxing way to travel, but by including a helicopter you can vastly increase the area you can travel in a week, and the experiences of the cruising destination. If you’re in Antigua, for instance, but are really craving lunch back at that French restaurant in St Barths you ate at last week, you simply request the helicopter.

The Logistics of a Yacht with Helicopter

Some yachts with helicopters have touch and go helipads located on either the sundeck, boat deck or the foredeck, while larger superyachts and support vessels have designated helicopter hangars to permanently store the helicopter, as well as reserve fuel tanks. Yacht helicopters are crewed by a professional pilot, who may be part of the yacht’s permanent crew, or only come on board when required.

Yachts with helicopters are particularly popular for remote or long range cruising, as well as with businesspeople who need to remain within reach of major centers and airports for urgent trips.

A yacht with a helicopter not only adds an extra dynamic of adventure and opulence to your charter, but is also extremely practical, allowing you to explore more of the cruising ground while still remaining in easy reach of land. Worth Avenue Yachts has a wide range of yachts with helicopter for sale and charter.

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Superyacht Helipads on Charter: What You Need to Know

By Editorial Team |   Last Updated 4 November 2021

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A helipad is the ultimate luxury convenience for anyone in a hurry to start their dream yacht charter vacation, yet although it seems these days every self-respecting superyacht boasts a helipad - or two - few are actually commercially certified for helicopter landings. So, the question remains: is a non-certified helipad just a waste of space on a yacht charter?

To clear things up, we have compiled our guide on everything you need to know about superyacht helipads, as well as some of the best charter yachts already equipped with fully-certified helicopter platforms for those wishing to kick off their luxury yacht charter in style.

In this article:

A commercially-certified helipad is a must

Can you use a non-certified helipad on a yacht charter, private helipads, ‘touch and go’ helipad, charter guest benefits, 6 stand-out superyachts with a fully-certified helipad, 1. la datcha, 2. cloudbreak, 3. madsummer, 5. flying fox, interested in booking a luxury yacht charter.

For this classification, a superyacht helipad must be constructed and operated in line with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) Large Commercial Yacht Code (LY3) Annex 6, which is basically the technical standards for helicopter landing areas, or helipads. 

This code sets out the basic rules governing the design, construction and operation of a helipad, which includes important factors such as a yacht’s load bearing capacity, obstacle clearance, consideration of airflow, safe access points, lighting, permanent deck markings and relevant crew training on helicopter operations. 

The responsibility for the survey and certification process for a helipad intended for commercial use is shared between the yacht’s registered flag state, the classification society and an aviation inspection body, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization ( ICAO ). 

All in all, it doesn’t leave much wiggle room for winging it.  

In a nutshell, no. 

Helicopters are not permitted to touch down on a non-certified helipad onboard a yacht that is being used commercially, i.e. for charter, unless for a medical emergency such as the evacuation of sick or injured passengers.

A helipad or helideck is considered a commercial operation if used to either;

• Receive commercial charter helicopters, or
• Transport charter guests 

Therefore, even a yacht being used privately by its owner cannot receive a commercial charter helicopter if the helideck is not certified.

The ICAO have also weighed in on this point, stipulating that “all commercial air transport helicopters should land on certified helipads which must be built according to certain standards”. 

Private helipads onboard a yacht adhere to less stringent rules and therefore do not have to meet the commercial standards for certification. 

We find many owners are keen to incorporate a helideck, so long as it doesn't compromise the overall aesthetic of the yacht

That's not to say that non-certified helipads aren’t safe, as for the most part they will have been designed with the regulations in mind. However, more often a yacht’s visual appeal is advocated over the practicalities of helipad design. Chris Wood, a helidecks operations manager with Safeguard Helidecks Certification agrees: “We find many owner's are keen to incorporate a helideck, so long as it doesn't compromise the overall aethestic of the yacht."

This snazzy term has become synonymous with luxury superyachts, although it technically has no meaning. For clarity's sake, unless specified ‘touch and go’ helipads are not certified and therefore cannot be used for commercial operations i.e. yacht charters, with the exception of medical emergencies. 

This can cause some confusion, especially as these types of helipads are often highlighted as a stand-out feature when marketing a yacht for charter.

A certified helipad onboard a yacht is a major bonus for yacht charterers wishing to expedite their travel time and arrive in style. Other advantages include;

• Quick and easy access to and from the yacht 
• Avoids wasting time in heavy traffic
• Avoids lengthy tender rides to yachts out on anchor
• Provides an opportunity for guests to explore their surroundings further
• Ideal jumping off point for extreme sports such as heli skiing
• Useful for corporate charter events
• Safe and comfortable transportation option

We are seeing huge demand from yacht owners wanting to get their private helipads commercially certified for yacht charters

As for non-commercial helipads, it can also be used for medical emergencies.

In conclusion, a fully operational helideck is an increasingly desirable feature onboard a charter yacht, which has led to a growing demand for helipad certification. Chris Woods at Safeguard Helidecks Certification confirms this is one of their biggest growth areas: "We are seeing huge demand from yacht owners wanting to get their private helipads commercially certified for yacht charters". 

So, although there are currently only a handful of charter yachts offering certified helipads right now, the future looks bright.

We have hand-picked a selection of top-rated superyachts equipped with a commerical landing platform for the ultimate luxury yacht charter.

Launched in 2020 to much acclaim, this stellar 77-metre explorer yacht is perfectly tailor-made for unique yacht vacations in far-flung destinations across the globe.

Located on her main deck aft, La Datcha’s helipad provides the perfect launching base for her two commercially-registered B3 Squirrel helicopters, designed by her adrenaline junkie owner with heli-skiing adventures and heli-ops in mind.

As well as an autonomous capability of up to 40 days at sea, she also boasts a raft of technology-rich gadgets, extensive wellness area, luxurious interiors and a toy chest overflowing with water-based and onshore exploration gear, including 2 snow scooters and a 3-person submarine.

Delivered out from the eminent German shipyard Abeking and Rasmussen in 2016, this voluminous 75-metre explorer yacht has a large dedicated aft commercial helideck for her custom Bell 429 Global Ranger, whilst still leaving ample deck areas for charter guests to exclusively enjoy. 

CLOUDBREAK offers an array of superlative amenities from her glass-enclosed winter garden to her fantastic alfresco cinema which converts into a nightclub, complete with DJ booth, lighting and state-of-the-art sound system! She also boasts a vast wellness centre with sauna, plunge pool, gym and massage area, as well as a qualified onboard beautician and personal trainer for the ultimate onboard luxury experience.

Launched in 2019, this award-winning 95-metre luxury yacht boasts all the hallmarks of meticulous craftsmanship we’ve come to expect from a Lurssen yacht.

MADSUMMER has a large helipad platform on her foredeck, fully-certified for helicopter operations and bunkering. She also houses a fully-equipped hangar in her bow for helicopter storage. On top of this, guests keen to explore their destination can do so on the yacht's very own Husky seaplane and 11-meter limo tender.

With exquisite Laura Sessa interiors showcasing a colour palette of primary hues, vast alfresco social areas, dedicated cinema suite and extensive wellness facilities, this spectacular charter yacht is an eternal crowd pleaser.

Delivered by Spanish yard Freire to her owner in 2011, This custom expedition yacht has made clever use of her wide foredeck helipad, which converts to a vast sundeck area with an array of sumptuous loungers when not being used as a landing platform for helicopters.

NAIA is uniquely both a luxury yacht and a state-of-the-art research vessel, boasting a submarine hangar for deep exploration, high-tech research facilities and an onboard laboratory.

For those looking for a little indulgence, she also offers a fully-equipped glass-panelled gym and swimming pool, huge penthouse-style Owner’s deck offering sensational views, main salon that converts to a cinema suite and an impressive array of toys, including a 5-person submarine capable of depths of up to 525 feet.

This impressive Lurssen yacht boasts not just one but two certified helipads, located on her top deck and bow, and both intentionally left clear so that charter guests can come and go as they please.

At 136 meters (446 ft) FLYING FOX is also the largest superyacht available for charter, and the most expensive!

Her stand-out features are endless; a stunning mezzanine-style salon, 12-meter swimming pool, lavish cinema suite, 400 m2 multi-level wellness spa – featuring a cryo-sauna, extensive Owner’s deck and observation lounge, to name a few of her onboard highlights.

Another award-winning turn from the German shipyard Lurssen, KISMET has two certified helipads; one on her bridge deck, which can be converted into a sumptuous alfresco lounging area, and another located on her foredeck, which is also marked out for a half-court basketball game!

This sleek 95m/312ft luxury yacht is assuredly masculine, both outside and in. From the sculpted jaguar on her bow to her luxuriant Art Deco-inspired black and gold interiors – based on a brief of ‘champagne and caviar’, she exudes glamour and style everywhere you turn.

Stand-out features include a stunning mosaic-tiled swimming pool with an adjacent elevated Jacuzzi offering sweeping vistas, aft deck fire pit with an integrated waterfall feature, double-height main salon and sports bar with full-height video walls so there’s no need to miss the game, plus innovative green features for environmentally-conscious charterers.

Choosing a yacht with a fully-certified helipad gives you a world of itinerary options that would otherwise not be achievable, allowing you and your broker to prepare some amazing and memorable experiences for the perfect yacht charter vacation.

With the list of charter yachts featuring commercial helipads growing each year, with many being retrospectively certified, be sure to check back. In the meantime, browse the current selection of  yachts equipped with a commercial helideck .

If you’d like to learn more about any of the yachts mentioned, or interested in booking a luxury yacht charter , please contact your yacht charter broker .

In short it depends.

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FEATURED SUPERYACHTS IN THIS ARTICLE

136m Lurssen 2019

95m Lurssen 2019

95m Lurssen 2014

77m Damen Yachting 2020

75m Abeking & Rasmussen 2016

74m Freire Shipyard 2011 / 2014

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Escape On A Yacht With A Helipad

It seems almost unreal, that a yacht with a helipad is actually a fairly common element in luxury yachting today. Step into any boat show where the yachts are over 150’ (45m), and just look up. These floating works of art are topped with the ultimate cherry – a helicopter.

Related   What Is A Yacht Charter    |    Yacht With A Pool

Your Own Yacht Helicopter Escort

There are no limits when it comes to offering the highest level of service to guests. Getting picked up by a helicopter to escort them to the yacht is an experience in itself, and gives guests a peek into what’s in store for the duration of the their time on board.

Secrecy. Secure. Style.

No longer do you or your guests have to wait for a tender to board, as a yacht with a helipad can make that happen faster, and with more privacy and security. The ease of joining your yacht in mid-ocean saves time, and offers a more efficient way to enjoy more time on the water with friends and family.

Explore Uncharted Territory

The convenience of owning a yacht with a helipad can not only increase your time on board, it offers a way to explore uncharted territory. Hop on board, and fly to places where your yacht can’t take you because of draft limitations. Expand your experiences beyond the water via the hottest toy to hit the deck, so to speak.

Pushing The Boundaries Of Yacht Design

No space for a helipad? Yacht builders and naval architects have creative ways of making that happen. A yacht with a pool can have the capacity for it to double as a helipad by building a movable floor that drains water and raises when it’s time to land. Seems incredible, because it is.

Multipurpose Mega Yacht Design

A yacht with a helipad typically features a large deck space cleared for such a purpose. At night, that deck can serve as a dance floor, and during the day, perhaps an open air yoga studio. There is no lack of creativity for open deck spaces, as imagined on some of the top award-winning mega yachts.

Luxury Yacht Intelligence

As incredible as it sounds, a helicopter can land on a yacht even as it’s underway. It’s a sight to see, and an even more amazing thing to experience firsthand. It’s not as hard as you think. Simply talk to a yacht broker at Merle Wood & Associates who will guide you to owning that yacht with a helipad that you’ve been searching for.

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Clarence Thomas' Yacht Trip to Russia Raises Questions

A letter from two Senate Democrats alleging that U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas failed to disclose a yacht trip to Russia has raised questions about the Court's longest-serving member.

Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Ron Wyden sent the letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland on July 3 accusing Thomas of failing to disclose gifts from billionaire Republican donor Harlan Crow and asking Garland to appoint a special counsel to investigate the matter.

Whitehouse is chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts and Wyden serves as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. The senators' list of "likely undisclosed gifts and income" from Crow and his affiliated companies to Thomas included a 2003 yacht trip to Russia and a private helicopter flight to a palace in St. Petersburg, the home town of Russian President Vladimir Putin .

The claims come as Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced on Wednesday that she had introduced articles of impeachment against Thomas and fellow conservative Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito .

In a move separate to the senators' letter, Ocasio-Cortez has accused Thomas and Alito of failing to disclose gifts and reimbursements and refusing to recuse themselves in cases in which they had conflicts of interest.

Thomas, the Court's most senior conservative, has been facing calls to resign for months—and efforts to impeach him—over his relationship with Crow and luxury trips he received from the billionaire GOP donor.

Newsweek has reached out to the Supreme Court via email for comment.

Commentators on social media site X, formerly Twitter , raised questions about Thomas' reported visit to Russia in posts on Wednesday.

"Clarence Thomas took secret unreported trips to Russia aboard a yacht and to one of Putin's palaces — in 2003," wrote lawyer and legal commentator Tristan Snell.

"That feels important somehow. Maybe — hear me out here — just maybe, we should launch a full and thorough investigation into Thomas and his Kremlin connection," Snell added.

Journalist and lawyer Seth Abramson wrote: "Clarence Thomas possibly meeting secretly with Kremlin officials in Russia and then committing felony Tax Fraud to cover it up is just another major breaking news story media has no time to cover because Biden cleared his throat a few extra times 12 days ago."

"America is screwed," Abramson added.

There was no suggestion in the senators' letter that Thomas met with any Russian officials during his visit to the country.

Olga Lautman, a senior fellow at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) highlighted a report from The Daily Beast on the senators' report.

"Hold on! WTH is a U.S. supreme court justice taking yacht trips and helicopter rides to Russia?" Lautman wrote on X .

"Before Kanye West went to Russia, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas did it on Harlan Crow's dime and took a lovely helicopter ride to the palace in Putin's hometown," wrote Grant Stern, executive editor of political organization Occupy Democrats .

"YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS STUFF UP!" Stern said.

In their letter to Garland, Whitehouse and Wyden argued that the evidence against Thomas "warrants criminal investigation." They also accuse him of never paying taxes on a more than $267,000 loan forgiven by another wealthy business owner, Anthony Welters.

"Appointment of a Special Counsel would serve the public interest," the Democrats wrote. "The public must have confidence that the judiciary and the Department of Justice execute their responsibilities fairly, impartially, and without respect to political expedience or partisan interests."

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Clarence Thomas Took Free Yacht Trip to Russia, Chopper Flight to Putin’s Hometown: Dems

The allegedly secret gifts were disclosed in a letter from two Democratic senators that accused Thomas of potentially committing tax fraud.

Anna Conkling

Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been accused of not disclosing a yacht trip to Russia and a private helicopter flight to a palace in President Vladimir Putin’s hometown, among a slew of other gifts and loans from businessman Harlan Crow .

Buried on page 14 of a letter that two Democratic senators sent to Attorney General Merrick Garland on Tuesday, in which they urged Garland to appoint a special counsel to probe Thomas, was an astonishing list of dozens of “likely undisclosed gifts and income” from Crow, Crow’s affiliated companies, and “other donors.”

In the letter, Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) said Thomas, one of the court’s staunchly conservative justices , even may have committed tax fraud and violated other federal laws by “secretly” accepting the gifts and income potentially worth millions.

“The Senate is not a prosecutorial body, and the Supreme Court has no fact-finding function of its own, making the executive role all the more important if there is ever to be any complete determination of the facts,” reads the letter requesting the appointment of a special prosecutor. 

“We do not make this request lightly,” said the letter. 

The list of potentially secret gifts also includes a loan of more than $267,000 provided by Thomas’ close friend Anthony Welters, the yacht trip to Russia from the Baltics, and the helicopter ride to Yusupov Palace in St. Petersburg. ProPublica first reported last year on the existence of extensive undisclosed gifts and lavish trips from Crow.

Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse and Ron Wyden

Additionally, Justice Thomas is accused of not disclosing tuitions for his grandnephew, free lodging, real estate transactions, and home renovations. The action escalates Democratic senators’ efforts to hold Thomas accountable for perceived ethics controversies. 

According to the senators, Thomas’ conduct could violate the Ethics in Government Act, which requires officials like Supreme Court justices to file annual reports disclosing gifts and income accepted from outside sources.

“It is a crime,” reads the report, “To knowingly and willfully fail to file or report such information.”

Since 2023, two Senate committees have been looking into the 1991 loan from Welters that was connected to Thomas’ purchase of a luxury motor home. Welters previously responded to a New York Times request for comment on the loan only to say that it was “satisfied.”

Thomas, for his part, belatedly disclosed some—but not all—gifts from Crow this year and has defended the gifts as “personal hospitality” from some of his and his wife’s “dearest friends.”

“The evidence assembled thus far plainly suggests that Justice Thomas has committed numerous willful violations of federal ethics and false-statement laws and raises significant questions about whether he and his wealthy benefactors have,” Whitehouse and Wyden wrote.

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast  here .

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Clarence Thomas accepted a free yacht trip to Russia and got flown out on a complimentary helicopter ride to Putin's hometown, 2 Democratic senators say

• Democratic senators have accused Justice Clarence Thomas of accepting undisclosed gifts and trips.
• They say he accepted gifts such as a yacht trip to Russia and a chopper ride to Vladimir Putin's hometown.
• The senators want an investigation into potential tax fraud and ties between Thomas and Harlan Crow.

Two Democratic senators have accused Justice Clarence Thomas of accepting a free trip to Russian President Vladimir Putin's hometown.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island and Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon filed a letter to US Attorney General Merrick Garland on July 3, asking to open an investigation into the Supreme Court judge.

The letter said there was a "serious possibility of tax fraud" and accused Thomas of having "secretly accepted gifts and income potentially worth millions of dollars."

The letter's appendix , which lists 35 undisclosed gifts, shows a "yacht trip to Russia and the Baltics" and a "helicopter ride to Yusupov Palace, St. Petersburg," both listed under the year 2003.

St. Petersburg, Russia, is Putin's birthplace and where he grew up. The president now resides in Moscow.

The appendix list is titled "Likely Undisclosed Gifts and Income from Harlan Crow and Affiliated Companies." Harlan Crow is a real-estate developer and the former chairman and CEO of the Trammell Crow Company.

The senators cited a ProPublica report from May last year detailing Thomas' hushed-up financial ties to Crow.

The report said that apart from the Russia trip, Crow also funded Thomas' grandnephew Mark Martin 's boarding-school fees, which cost "more than $6,000 a month."

In their letter, the senators wrote that other gifts from Crow included "multiple instances of free private jet travel, yacht travel, and lodging," as well as "gifts of tuition for Justice Thomas's grandnephew," "real estate transactions," "home renovations," and "free rent for Justice Thomas's mother."

In September, Thomas said he'd accepted three trips on a private plane owned by Crow . He didn't mention any other gifts.

Related stories

Whitehouse and Wyden aren't the only Democrats who've voiced concerns over Thomas' sketchy financial ties.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez of New York filed articles of impeachment against Thomas and Justice Samuel Alito on Wednesday.

"Justice Thomas and Alito's repeated failure over decades to disclose that they received millions of dollars in gifts from individuals with business before the court is explicitly against the law," her statement reads.

Representatives for Thomas, Whitehouse, Wyden and Crow didn't immediately respond to requests for comment from Business Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Watch: Why Clarence Thomas' lavish vacations with a GOP donor are in the spotlight

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Florida developer Sergio Pino found dead amid FBI ‘murder for hire’ investigation

Real estate developer Sergio Pino, one of the country’s largest Hispanic residential builders, died by suicide Tuesday morning after FBI agents arrived at his Cocoplum home amid what the bureau called a “murder for hire” investigation related to threats  made against his estranged wife, Tatiana Pino.

It was a startling end for a prominent businessperson who faced a federal inquiry into whether he had any connection to a group of men charged with stalking and threatening his wife of more than three decades during a contentious divorce. The dissolution of the couple’s marriage had played out in shocking headlines since FBI agents raided Pino’s Coral Gables home and office in late June — the pages of their divorce file show the couple relaying alleged incidents of poisoning, vehicle fires and a drive-by shooting at Sergio Pino’s home in recent years. Threats made against Tatiana Pino and her sister, including arson and a hit-and-run, led to the arrests of four men, including one of Sergio Pino’s household employees, earlier this year.

Early Tuesday, weeks after the first raid, FBI agents descended on Sergio Pino’s Coral Gables neighborhood as part of a “search and arrest” operation related to a murder-for-hire investigation that began in the fall of 2023, according to a statement by Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Veltri. A SWAT team entered Pino’s home after attempting to call out to anyone inside and getting no response, according to the FBI’s statement. Veltri said that Pino, who was 67, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound and that FBI agents discovered him “alone in an upstairs bedroom.”

Law enforcement raided another home in Cutler Bay as part of the operation. One person was arrested, according to Veltri, who did not provide the suspect’s name or further details.

In a statement Tuesday afternoon, Pino’s criminal defense attorney criticized the FBI’s actions.

“Sergio Pino took his own life today,” said lawyer Sam Rabin. “The level of law enforcement activity at his residence was unprecedented and unnecessary, especially since we had offered to surrender him, should that have become necessary. Today’s events mark a very tragic ending to an investigation that we were confident we could successfully defend. There were many rumors and allegations, but what was lacking was evidence.”

Pino, the founder of Century Homebuilders Group and a high-profile Miami-Dade County builder and political donor for decades,  had denied any involvement  in the incidents involving his wife.

The striking scene in Cocoplum unfolded Tuesday morning as FBI agents returned to Pino’s home, where the couple once lived together. For much of the morning, Coral Gables police cruisers blocked off Isla Dorada Boulevard, where the house is located. A series of loud bangs could be heard from about a block away, beginning at 9:30 a.m., about every 15 minutes. Two helicopters hovered overhead at the waterfront estate, near the Cocoplum Yacht Club.

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Around 10 a.m., Coral Gables Fire Rescue arrived with lights on. Thirty minutes later, an ambulance left with lights on but no siren. Around 11:30 a.m., a van from the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s office arrived in the area.

The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s office later confirmed that Pino died inside his home on Isla Dorada Boulevard around 10:20 a.m.

The residence was not visible from the area blocked off by law enforcement on Tuesday morning.

A person in the neighborhood told the Miami Herald that law enforcement surrounding the house appeared calm, with weapons pointed at the ground. The person said that at one point they heard police say over the megaphone that they would breach the front door.

Tatiana Pino’s lawyer, Raymond Rafool, declined to comment Tuesday afternoon. “Under the circumstances, we are not commenting at this time,” he said.

Four Miami-Dade men, including an employee of Sergio Pino’s, were arrested earlier this year in connection with threats and attacks against Tatiana Pino and her sister. Bayron Bennett, who worked putting together food and beverage service on Sergio Pino’s yacht, is accused of recruiting Michael Dulfo, Edner Etienne and Jerren Howard to carry out a hit-and-run at Tatiana Pino’s residence and multiple arsons at her sister’s residence. The four men have pleaded not guilty.

A rented Home Depot trailer  rammed into Tatiana Pino’s car  as she pulled into her driveway after a day of divorce proceedings in August 2023. And three vehicles were set ablaze in two separate arsons at Tatiana Pino’s sister’s residence.

In a motion filed on July 5, Tatiana Pino’s divorce attorney said there had been another “attempt on Ms. Pino’s life just weeks ago at her home.” Pinecrest police have refused to release the report from that incident because it is part of the ongoing federal investigation.

In court testimony, Tatiana Pino said she blamed health problems  on what she believed was a poisoning attempt  by her husband. Sergio Pino had denied that allegation.

And he testified that he had also received threats throughout the divorce proceedings.

A month after Tatiana Pino filed for divorce, Sergio Pino said someone  shot at his Coral Gables home  and that he had received threatening phone calls around that time.

In September 2023, shortly after the hit-and-run at Tatiana Pino’s residence, Sergio Pino said someone set his car on fire. About a year before that, he testified, another car of his was vandalized.

©2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency LLC.

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flynow aviation’s automatic electric helicopters to transport visitors at expo 2030 in riyadh

Ecopters as a means of transport at expo 2030 in riyadh.

Thousands of Flynow Aviation’s eCopters are set to fly hundreds of people visiting Expo 2030 in Riyadh between October 1st and March 31st, 2031. In line with the announcement, the aviation company is gearing up to open a regional office and production line in Saudi Arabia. Here, the Austrian-based company plans to produce and deliver numerous automatic electric helicopters , or eVTOLs , for Expo 2030 use. Yvonne Winter, Flynow Aviation’s Chief Operating Officer, adds that the regional office in Saudi Arabia may open within the next month or two.

Along with this, the company will set up an assembly line for local production and sales, as well as exports to global markets, in the Kingdom. In April 2024, the aviation company signed a partnership with Bayanat, a software company that employs AI-powered predictive geospatial intelligence, during DRIFTx in Abu Dhabi. The deal intended to make urban air mobility through Flynow Aviation’s eCopters available as a new means of transport to the UAE.

Flynow aviation’s automatic electric helicopters use batteries

Mohammed AlQahtani, the CEO of Saudi Arabia Holding Co., shared the news on LinkedIn, stating his source as Asharq Alawsat Online. His post also included an overview of FlyNow Aviation’s automatic electric helicopters. Identified as eVTOLs, they can accommodate one or two people as well as cargo. Its maximum payload is 200 kilos, while its maximum take-off weight is 570 kilos. No one’s flying the eCopters since they are automatic.

One way the aviation company describes it is ‘the cable of a cable car.’ It transports people and cargo using a fixed route, a simple point-to-point destination, unlike autonomous aircraft that choose a path on their own using advanced technologies. Battery-electric drives power Flynow’s helicopters. The eCopters use coaxial rotors, meaning one rotor sits on top of the other on the same shaft, but they spin in opposite directions.

Sensors can detect other aircraft in air to avoid collision

FlyNow Aviation draws from NASA’s Mars Helicopter ‘Ingenuity’ for their rotor design. They claim that the space agency’s aircraft was able to generate enough lift even in an atmosphere with a density of 1/100th that of Earth. An electric motor drives each rotos, which in turn consists of four independent units. The aviation company says this can avoid possible motor failures while the eCopters fly in the air. ‘Should one of the motor segments fail, it will be substituted by the three remaining ones,’ says the company.

In terms of potential collisions, the eCopters, equipped with sensors, can detect what’s in front of them. Should they encounter another aircraft or even a bird in the air, the automatic electric helicopters remain stationary for a moment before taking flight again. The technology team is looking into demonstrating this safety feature and adds that the flight behavior is calm due to the fact that the cabin is arranged below the rotors ‘and is simply held in a stable position by gravity,’ says FlyNow Aviation.

As of publishing the story, FlyNow Aviation says they will test their first eCopters with cargo variants and battery-electric drives. This can minimize the licensing and accident risks and make it easier for operators to obtain their pilot permits. Transporting people comes next, but there’s no official timeline yet as to when it’s going to occur. The team started to test their full-scale concept at the beginning of summer 2023 at Salzburg Airport. They shared that the tests were successful at the component level.

They were able to put the entire system of the automatic electric helicopters into operation. These included their mechanical, electrical, acoustic, and systemic criteria. ‘These results are now incorporated into the following series development,’ says the aviation company. The following  development might entail the arrival of thousands of eCopters for Expo 2030 in Riyadh. After transporting visitors to the event, these eCopters plan to extend their geographical and functional ranges from supplying sailors on container ships to flying people to remote places.

the eCopters are set to be a means of transport during Expo 2030 in Riyadh

sensors can detect other aircraft on air to avoid collision

project info:

name: eCopters

company: Flynow Aviation | @flynow_aviation

event: Expo 2030 Riyadh

dates: October 1st, 2030 to March 31st, 2031

happening now! sky-frame’s ‘my point of view’ film presents david montalba’s surf-inspired architecture in malibu, using their expansive glass doors for uninterrupted ocean views – see the whole video on designboom! 

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