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10 Fascinating Facts About ‘Loon,’ the 221-Foot Superyacht That Gets the Coolest Toys First

The 221-footer has hundreds of thousands of social-media followers, accepts bitcoin for charter, and an entire crew who can sing and dance. oh, and it's rescued two other boats this year., gemma harris, gemma harris's most recent stories.

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With the ever-expanding portfolio of charter yachts vying for attention, the 221-foot Loon took to social media to showcase its offerings. Not just with a Facebook page of pretty destinations, but with an Instagram account that now has 140,000 followers and a YouTube channel with 122,000 folks who watch its journeys.

The yacht, previously christened  Icon,  splashed in 2010 when it left the Dutch shipyard Icon Yachts. Purchased in 2023 by owners who named the yacht after their lakehouse residents, the loon bird, it is now widely recognized on the charter scene, thanks partly to its social-media presence but mostly because of its eclectic crew.

Captain Paul Clarke, who has been with the owner since 2017 and created the social-media frenzy, made his way from the vessel’s smaller siblings to helm this third generation of yachts named Loon. An overflowing toy box and tenders that include a wake-surfing boat, as well as an inventory of all the top brands, have made this an exceptional charter vessel, with IYC being the primary brokers.

The yacht’s timeless lines and contemporary features are a testament to RWD Design’s forward-thinking philosophy. “ Loon has many features which are only now being incorporated into today’s yachts,” Clarke told Robb Report.

Here are 10 cool facts about this social superyacht.

An impressive catalog of toys is a given on any reputable charter yacht, but Loon ‘s toy trove is a cut above the rest. “Those who have the most toys win—this has always been our mantra,” says Capt. Paul Clarke. “For instance, most yachts have two Jet Skis, we have four. We apply that philosophy across the toy spectrum.” It is a thrill-a-minute onboard with Seabobs, wakeboards, scuba equipment, foils, and more towables and inflatables than one can get on in a week. Loon is regularly asked to test toys before they hit the market. “We always get pre-release toys to demo. We were also the first superyacht to carry Lift foils,” adds Clarke.

A Singing, Dancing Crew

The linchpin holding a great charter together is the crew. But Loon raises the bar with its onboard team, who are born entertainers. Besides their regular duties, crewmembers double as a scuba instructor, a masseuse, a pro kitesurfer, a personal trainer, a yoga instructor, and even a DJ. The chief engineer provides an added layer of charm with his guitar skills for evening soirees. “I always hire crew who have secondary skills,” says Clarke.

The Influencer

If it isn’t on social media, did it even happen? Clarke started Loon ‘s social accounts back in the day to share the wealth of content he gathered from shooting videos of guests. Today, Loon has a crew member whose sole job is to create content with “equipment in hand 24/7.” This person, using drones and an occasional helicopter, creates charter memories with videography, photography, and other content-creation skills. Clarke says Loon is the only superyacht to have this dedicated position. The strategy has paid off. The vessel has 143,000 Instagram followers and 121,000 YouTube subscribers tuning in to watch its every move.

Loon-Inspired Inflatables

Aside from the yacht’s signature beach club, Loon literally expands for on-the-water playtime. In fact, the yacht is more than a consumer of water toys. It’s an influencer. Inflatable manufacturer FunAir developed its Beach Club Sea Pool, the first-of-its-kind inflatable Yacht Slide (with a stylish carbon-fiber finish) specifically for this yacht. This section serves as a bumper point for toys and launchpad for Jet Skis. The netted surroundings also protect swimmers from currents and jellyfish.

Looney Activities

Loon’ s activities regularly catch the eyes of onlookers. The vessel’s G23 Nautique is ideal for wake surfing. However, when chartering, the professional poker player and influencer Dan Bilzerian decided to take water stunts up a notch or two and wake-surf behind the yacht itself. While Loon regularly has “tons of A-listers” on board doing epic things, stunts are also for the crew. For its Instagram feed, the crew have leaped over the bow dressed as Thanksgiving turkeys and pulled off impressive kitesurfing jumps. The next booked charter will include magicians, helicopters, fire breathers, and a renowned DJ. “We try to make it extraordinary no matter who the guest is,” says Clarke. 

The Honey Bees

Teaming up with the biodynamic honey producers at Hikian in southern Finland, Loon has adopted its own beehive and features the honey in its cuisine. The buzz around this premium honey is that the bees thrive in the unspoiled air of the Finnish forest. As well as the flavor, the honey also accompanies the chef’s creations.

Crypto Charters

Two years ago, the former Loon was the first superyacht to accept charter fees in cryptocurrency. Fast forward to now, the current Loon continues to accept Bitcoin for bookings. Embracing crypto transactions is not just another form of payment but also a nod to a younger yachting clientele.

Involved in Rescue Missions

This Caribbean charter season has already seen Loon involved in two successful search-and-rescue missions. The first was retrieving an overturned fishing boat at the request of the U.S. Coast Guard. Just before Christmas, Loon also responded to another search and rescue that came from a couple scuba diving in the Dog Islands. Clarke sent the tender ahead to locate the missing woman who had been swept out. “It could have ended much worse if the rescue hadn’t come together so quickly,” he says.

The Main Suite Built Around the Bathtub

The interior styling by Studio Linse is inviting across all seven cabins, but the one that really catches the eye is the full-beam primary suite. With neutral and contemporary aesthetics, it is located on the main deck, where large windows flood the space with natural light. But the spotlight really shines on the impressive three-ton stone bathtub in the ensuite. It had to be installed before the deck was put on—a true commitment to a relaxing soak.

Well Connected

Loon keeps everyone connected wherever it is anchored by remaining fully hooked up to the onboard Starlink system. Besides fast Wi-Fi for work or socializing, entertainment demands are also met, thanks to the fully integrated Apple TV system, delivering every kind of movie on the yacht’s big screens. The electronic bells and whistles continue in the bridge, which recently saw upgrades to the 26-inch touchscreen panels that control all elements of the yacht.

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The Boat That Went Viral: How M/Y Loon Became a Social Media Sensation

Holly is the editor of Dockwalk. She grew up racing sailboats in England before switching to the world of superyachts and moving across the pond to Fort Lauderdale.

With hundreds of thousands of followers and millions of views, the crew of Loon is setting a new standard for social media in yachting.

Remember a time when post was something you received in the mail and a reel was used for fishing? Social media has not only changed our vocabulary but also transformed how we connect as we share snippets of our lives in exchange for a peek inside others. Of course, it’s not all beach bars and sunsets — there is nothing inspiring about crawling into the bilge or turning over laundry. But what lies beyond the passerelle stirs a natural curiosity, and social media is the perfect porthole into a world only a select few get to see.

In recent years there has been a noticeable shift as forward-thinking owners, often spurred on by their crew, have begun to embrace social media and recognize the benefits of creating an online presence for their vessels. Leading the fleet is Loon . The 221ft motor yacht has become a social-media sensation over the last 12 months. Its YouTube channel ( @motoryachtloon ) has amassed more than 25 million views, with 121,000 subscribers tuning in each week to watch the crew document their lives on board, and another 143,000 follow along on Instagram ( @motoryachtloon ).

The yacht’s rise to online stardom began in 2017 when Captain Paul Clarke joined the first Loon , a 155ft Christensen. The boat was 20 years old at the time and he wanted to make it more attractive for charter. He was inspired by the 180ft Amels Gene Machine , which back then was one of the only boats sharing snapshots of its travels on social media. But Gene Machine wasn’t for charter. Captain Paul saw an opportunity, and her Instagram career was launched.

"We teetered around 50,000 followers for the better part of three years,” he says. But efforts were ramped up when the owner acquired the latest and third Loon — a 221ft Icon. Since then, that number has nearly tripled. So how did they do it?

“Stepping up in size, we had an extra crew berth,” Captain Paul explains. “We didn’t know what to do with it. Do we get another deckhand or another stew?” The answer was neither. Instead they decided to give their deckhand Blair van Breda ( @blair_vb ) a new position as full-time videographer and content creator.

Primarily his role was to film guests during their time on board and edit the footage into a highlights reel as an end-of-charter parting gift. “That’s what kick-started the YouTube account,” Captain Paul says. “We already had all the footage as the drone was up every day. All we’ve really done is remove the guests and get the crew to tell the story of what’s going on, whether we’re on charter, doing an Atlantic crossing or enjoying a couple of days off.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by D E A N H A R R I S O N (@theyachtchef)

Blair started making content back in South Africa and turned his hobby into a profitable hustle before joining yachting. “I took it seriously and did that for about three or four years before I joined my first boat as a deckhand. I had accepted the gig one day before I met Paul on a beach when I was kitesurfing,” Blair says. Paul offered him a job on the spot, but having committed to doing a year on his first boat, Blair initially turned it down. “I was on board a year to the day and then joined Loon .”

Filming is woven into the vessel’s everyday operation, capturing events as they unfold. “There is a bit [of planning] but a lot of it is we don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow,” Captain Paul says. Docking, undocking, meal prepping, provisioning, recovering tenders — the day-to-day content is captured in real time, but it’s the unexpected moments that make for the best content. “In Sardinia there was a sailboat drifting past us that almost ended up on the rocks and we had to run out and rescue it. That’s not scripted or planned. It’s just what happens each day.”

Then there are the planned videos filmed when guests are off the boat or between charters, such as chase-boat walkthroughs, cabin tours and meet-the-crew Q&As. “It’s different for different channels,” Blair says. Instagram is where you’ll find short 30-second snapshots, but where Loon has really carved out its own space is on YouTube. “There’s been hundreds of boats now that have their own Instagram accounts, but no one else is doing YouTube,” Paul says. “YouTube is so much more about the personalities. Each video is about 30 minutes long and the actual scripted stuff is about three minutes of the entire video in a week. But you can’t do it without a full-time person. Each video takes 100 hours of filming, editing and producing.”

Of course, this isn’t just all for fun. Loon is a charter yacht and booking charters is the ultimate goal. Whereas traditional charter marketing usually involves a model family dressed in floaty white linens, Loon takes a crew-first approach — and it works. “We had a broker on day one of the Antigua Charter Yacht Show, who said, ‘I have a client and they watch every single YouTube video. They don’t care where they book, they don’t care when they book, but what is your availability and how quickly can they get on boat’,” Captain Paul explains. That client signed a two-week charter.

But effective marketing isn’t without cost. Raising the production value of Loon ’s content output has meant serious investment in the right gear. Cameras, gimbals, drones, GoPros, wireless microphones… it’s a big operation, and not a cheap one. There is about $60,000 worth of content equipment on board. “Where do I start,” Blair exclaims. “We’ve got about five or six GoPros, with two or three drones flying at once sometimes, large streaming cameras that we use for all our livestreams, an Insta 360 and a $10,000 laptop for editing. Mainly I shoot everything on a Sony a7S III mirrorless camera with a DJI RS 3 Pro Gimbal. And then I have my own Sony mirrorless camera.”

Their main drone is a DJI Mavic 3 Pro and they have a DJI Avata, which is a FPV drone that you fly with virtual reality-style goggles on. “We use different ones depending on what we’re doing. The DJI Mavic 3 Pro is our big cinematographer drone, which is basically the first level of professional drones. Then we have minis that we give to the deck crew when they’re going hiking, so if they crash it, it’s $800 versus almost $4,000 for our bigger ones. And they get crashed a lot. We probably spend about 10 grand a year on drones.” It is a bigger commitment from the owner, but it pays itself back — Loon charters for $540,000 per week. But you don’t need all the kit from the get-go, says Captain Paul. “For boats that are starting out, you could get away with a couple of GoPros and a cheap drone.”

Although every crew member gets involved with filming, having camera skills isn’t a prerequisite for joining the crew. “There are no real differences in our hiring practices,” Captain Paul says. “We want charter crew. You should be good on camera because you should be good off camera. We want big personalities that will be down on the swim platform having a laugh with guests, telling them stories and about the destination.” For Captain Paul, it’s additional skills that are the biggest hiring factor. “Every crew member can do something else.” Head chef Nina is a dive instructor, chief engineer Alex sings and plays guitar, deckhand Nicholas is a personal trainer and even the captain is a dive and kite instructor. Being able to offer extra skills is what makes a good charter experience, but also incredible content. It’s a win-win situation.

While many vessels shun the spotlight, Loon embraces it. Some of the crew joined the boat with a following of their own because they wanted to continue creating content in the yachting space. Rotational head chef Dean Harrison ( @theyachtchef ) has amassed 87,500 Instagram followers, showcasing his creations and talking about the realities of life in the galley. Then there’s rotational head chef Nina Wilson ( @thecrewchef ) with 199,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel. “I was attracted [to Loon ] because I wanted to film,” Nina says. She joined the yacht from a humanitarian vessel and was craving guest interaction. “I love content creation because it’s a form of art. I love the editing side.”

There have been some learning curves along the way, but whether the crew are on charter or enjoying a day off, professionalism is key. No swearing, no drinking and no talking about money. “We try to show everything in a good light. I’d like to think that we’re raising the whole industry after a certain TV show has lowered it,” Captain Paul says.

By sharing their adventures with the world, Loon ’s crew has inspired a generation of crew to embrace content creators. Their success is proof that social media can yield big returns, but it’s also an indication that the future of yachting is not just about luxury and exclusivity but also about transparency and connection.

Loon's Inventory:

• Sony a1 (“It films 8k video,  it’s beautiful”)
• Sony a7S III
• 5 GoPro HERO12s
• Insta360 X3
• DJI RS 3 Pro Gimbal
• DJI Mavic 3 Pro
• DJI Mavic 3

Also on board

• Røde wireless microphones
• DJI wireless microphones
• 30TB of hard-drive storage
• M1 MacBook Pro
• 16in 64GB ram
• Enough batteries to power a small village
• 20 SD cards of all  shapes and sizes

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The Loon Flock: Two superyachts set to offer unforgettable charter experiences in the Mediterranean

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By Steph Loseby   12 May 2023

With the acquisition of a new yacht bearing the same name, the owners of the renowned 55m (180ft) motor yacht LOON have expanded their fleet, creating a truly remarkable ensemble. Both yachts are set to make a splash in the Mediterranean this summer, providing guests with the ultimate getaway at sea.

The original LOON, a 55m (180ft) superyacht, has gained widespread acclaim as one of the most sought-after charter yachts in the Caribbean and the Bahamas . This season, she sets her course for the Mediterranean, and despite the summer season not yet commencing, only a few dates remain available for charter. 

Led by the experienced Captain Paul Clarke, who has been at the helm for several years, motor yacht LOON will continue its legacy of providing impeccable service to her 12 guests. The captain has already assembled a multinational crew that will uphold the yacht's five-star reputation and is set to deliver a seamless and memorable yacht charter vacation.

Guests aboard the luxury superyacht will have the pleasure of indulging in an array of amenities, including two new tenders—one designed for beach landings and the other ideal for wake surfing. 

Additionally, they will have access to the thrilling FunAir slide descending from the top deck, as well as a refreshing FunAir swimming pool located off the swim platform and beach club. 

Captain Clarke enthuses, "This is going to be the main hangout area onboard. I can tell." He further highlights the convenience of the beach club's direct access from the lower guest cabins, allowing for effortless transitions from bed to water.

The second superyacht LOON

Joining the LOON flock is the newest addition, the 68m (221ft) superyacht, also christened M/Y LOON which was formerly known as M/Y ICON. Delivered by Dutch shipyard Icon Yachts in 2010, the yacht underwent an extensive refit in 2020 under its previous ownership where she was luxuriously fitted out and upgraded to offer the ultimate experience in comfort and amenities.

Boasting accommodation for 14 guests and a dedicated crew of 18, the yacht is now in turnkey condition for her upcoming charter season. 

Onboard highlights include her spacious retractable beach club, a large infinity pool and an abundance of deck space where guests can kick back, relax and socialize in style. 

The larger LOON has always been renowned for its exceptional watersports program, which will now be available on both vessels. Guests can look forward to thrilling activities such as kitesurfing, wakeboarding, e-foiling, and diving, facilitated by PADI-certified dive centers on both yachts.

With a playful nod to avian terminology, the crew and owners jest that the flock of Loons creates an "asylum" for those seeking an exquisitely remarkable charter experience. 

Following their Mediterranean charter season, there are possibilities of the larger LOON venturing to the Caribbean and Bahamas later in the year but for now, it is safe to say the LOON flock is set for an unforgettable summer filled with joy, adventure and excitement. 

Thinking of booking a private yacht charter in the Mediterranean?

Wanting to explore some of the most sought-after destinations in the Mediterranean? From the glittering azure coastline of the Turkish Riviera to the sun-drenched archipelagos of Greece’s Aegean and Ionian seas, the glistening hotspots of the Mediterranean are as renowned for their rich archaeological history as they are for their glamorous yacht scene and vibrant nightlife. 

To find out more about chartering in the region, check out our Mediterranean yacht charter guide . For some inspiration, browse our  selection of itineraries  handpicked by experts with in-depth knowledge of the region.

Itineraries

If you’d like to learn more about chartering either of the superyacht LOONs this season, please contact a recommended  yacht charter broker . 

Additional yachts available to charter in the Mediterranean this summer

73m Turquoise Yachts 2012 / 2022

66m Rossinavi 2023

65m ISA 2021

63m Benetti 2019 / 2022

60m Amels 2022

60m Amels 2023

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Paul Clarke

Growing up in Australia and Bermuda Paul spent most of his youth on the water sailing competitively taking part in some of the biggest sailing regattas in the world. In 2002 Paul joined the yachting industry as a Bosun on a 50m Perini Navi sailing yacht and decided yachting is where he wanted to be. Working hard over the next few years Paul got his first captains’ position in 2007 and has been the captain on many different yachts from the 130’ Westport Redemption to the 155’ Perini Navi sailing yacht Helios. When Paul isn’t at work he is still out on the water Spearfishing.

Tyler Viljioen

Chief Officer

Tyler was born in East London, South Africa. Growing up on the east coast of Africa is where his passion for the ocean was formed. Any chance he gets he is on a board whether it be surfing, skurfing or wakeboarding. He Started yachting fresh out of high school on some great yachts that travelled extensively. He got his OOW (officer of watch) certificate after his first yacht and over the years he continued to upgrade his qualifications to Chief Mate. At the young age of 26 he was already a chief mate on a well know 60m charter vessel. Tyler started out on the very first Loon as the Bosun for 2 years and has now come back as our chief officer. Knowing the program really well you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable holiday.

Ross Clarke

Chief Engineer

Ross grew up in England, in a small town called Leighton buzzard. He soon realized once he had finished his studies in mechanical engineering that there were better places in the world suited for him, and it was then when he became a dive instructor in the south pacific. From there he grew a love for boats and the ocean. Since then he has traveled to many different places around the world on yachts including the south pacific, Mediterranean, Africa and the USA. Ross has recently been in school completing his Y1 engineering, which is a great accomplishment.

Ivan Antonic

Second Engineer

To Be Added - To Be Added - To Be Added - To Be Added - To Be Added - To Be Added - To Be Added

Jozo Siscov

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Henro De Vos

Hendrick (Roo), is from a small beach town on the East coast… East coast of South Africa that is! He grew up in the Bluff, South Africa where he developed his love of the sea and all things encompassing. Roo is a really keen body boarder who also loves to scuba dive, free dive, spear fish and anything that can take him on an adventure. Roo has recently completed his OOW (Officer of Watch) and is eager to keep growing with the industry and one day captain his own vessel. His greatest hobby is Scuba diving and loves to take guests to experience it with him.

Blair Van Breda

Videographer

Blair, like many of the crew, comes from the coastal town of Durban, South Africa. From a young age he had a passion for photography and videography as you will see him never without a camera in hand. In his free time he is on the water kitesurfing and fishing at any opportunity. Fun fact, Blair holds the record for the highest kite boarding jump on board out of the crew.

Tristan Welby-Cooke

Tristan is a young gun who grew up in Cape Town and has a huge love for the ocean, which is what got him into yachting as it was his opportunity to be in the water as a profession. He is an avid surfer and hopes to one day travel around to the best surfing destinations in the world. He also enjoys being in the outdoors surrounded by his closest friends, which you’ll probably see are the deck crew on board as they’re thick as thieves.

Dean Harriso

Dean grew up on the Sunshine Coast in a small coastal town called Noosa, Australia, where he worked as a chef from the age of 15 years old. Dean has been a chef for 17 years and cooking on yachts the past 13 years. Starting onboard dive boats on the Great Barrier Reef where he acquired his Dive Master. Influenced by Asian cuisines including Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese but also loves to cook what’s called modern Australian. In his spare time, he free dives the deepest oceans and snowboards the highest mountains, while also travelling to places that intrigue his taste buds.

Alex is no stranger when it comes to being surrounded by beautiful food and creating lasting memoires. At the age of 12 her grandmother gave her a personalized cookbook that she has kept over the years adding her own special recipes to it. Her grandfather and father owned their own butchery where she used to work as a young girl and it was then she developed her passion for food. Alex constantly keeps us nourished as her approach to cooking is healthy, holistic, fun and vibrant and you can definitely taste it.

Maxine Robert

Chief Stewardess

Maxine was born and raised in Durban, South Africa. She has always had a love for the ocean – a true water baby. From morning dips in the ocean, and fun water activities. From a young age she has always had a passion for traveling. After getting her degree in Psychology and Business, she decided to get into yachting. It has been 10 years & she still loves every aspect of it. She has always had a love for yoga which led her to get her teacher training and is now a qualified yoga teacher. With Max’s bubbly personality you are bound to have a wonderful time onboard Motor Yacht Loon.

Fiona Lewis

Second Stewardess

Fiona was born and raised in York, England where she completed her Sport and Exercise Science degree. One of her personal training clients suggested she work as a stew/PT on yachts. Being someone who loves to travel she thought why not. This led her to join yachting and the rest is history. She has now been in yachting for 7 years travelling all over the world on the high seas including remote places such as Patagonia, Antarctica and Ushuaia. From the mountain slopes to the ocean, she loves an outdoor activity. You’re always sure to see Fi smiling and making sure you have an optimal experience onboard Loon.

Marguerite Snyman

Third Stewardess

Marguerite grew up on the sunny South coast of South Africa. After completing her honors degree in Advertising, she traded in her books for flip flops and traveled and taught English in Vietnam. After that she worked in a design and social media company in the beautiful beach town called Ballito along the east coast of South Africa. Being an adventurer, she just couldn’t stay settled and left her job to join the yachting industry. Loon is her first yacht, and she is now fully immersed and loving every aspect of it. Marguerite loves wellness, people, food, nature and is always smiling.

Paige Gafney

Paige is an adventurous, independent and dedicated individual. She is new to the yachting industry but is very motivated to learn new skills and push herself to do her best in anything she sets out to achieve. Paige loves being around new people and has a love for travel. In her previous career of Fashion it allowed her to learn time management, creativity and multi-tasking.

Klara Holubova

Stewardess / Massuse

Klara is from the Czech Republic. She is a very cheerful, friendly, optimistic, energetic person who loves to learn new things. She is new to yachting and Loon is her very first boat. Klara worked as a Massage practitioner in a 5-star spa on the west coast of Canada for 2 years before joining us. She specializes in Signature Massages, Organic Facials and Massages with Hot Stones.

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2010   Icon Yachts    221ft  /  67.5m

LOON Yacht Charter

LOON currently registered in the Netherlands is actively available for charter in several cruising destinations.

The luxury motor yacht LOON was built by Icon Yachts and delivered to her owner in 2010, she later underwent a refit in 2020.

The exterior of LOON is designed by Redman Whiteley Dixon.

The 221ft / 67.5m LOON has been constructed with a steel hull and is powered by 2 x MTU (2,480HP) with a cruising speed of 13 knots.

Charter guest accommodation

LOON has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 14 charter guests in 7 suites.

The guest cabins comprise a primary suite with a king size bed and en-suite bathroom facilities, 3 cabins with a twin bed and en-suite bathroom facilities and 3 cabins with a queen size bed and en-suite bathroom facilities.

Your luxury charter crew

Your luxury charter on board motor yacht LOON will be managed by the crew of 18 including the captain.

The crew will ensure you have a relaxed and enjoyable charter experience with all of your needs catered for while on board.

The 18 crew have their own separate crew quarters allowing guests to enjoy increased levels of privacy.

Amenities & Entertainment

Amenities on board for the charter guests include Air Conditioning, Beach club, Exercise equipment, Big game fishing gear, Gym, Indoor audio system, iPod dock, Jacuzzi on deck, Satellite TV, Sauna, Spa, Stabilizers At Anchor, Sun pads, Sun loungers, Swim platform, Swimming pool, TV all cabins, TV saloon and Wi-Fi.

An extensive list of further amenities and water toys can be seen under the features and amenities section.

Yacht charter destinations

LOON is Currently cruising in the Caribbean, the East Mediterranean and the West Mediterranean.

Sample itineraries for the cruising destinations can be supplied by your professional charter broker allowing you to plan your luxury yacht charter vacation in detail.

• Windward Islands
• Leeward Islands

East Mediterranean

West mediterranean.

• French Riviera
• South of France
• Air Conditioning
• Exercise equipment
• Big game fishing gear
• Indoor audio system
• Jacuzzi on deck
• Satellite TV
• Stabilizers At Anchor
• Sun loungers
• Swim platform
• Swimming pool
• TV all cabins
• Inflatable Watertoys
• Beach games
• Jet Skis (standup)
• Kite board equipment
• Paddleboards
• Tube - towable
• Water skis - adult
• Crew certified
• Snorkeling Gear
• 1x 7.2m 2022 Super Air Nautique Ski Boat
• 1x 7.5m 2022 X-Craft Beach Lander
• 1x MOB Beach Drop-off Tender

Paul Clarke

Growing up in Australia and Bermuda Paul spent most of his youth on the water sailing competitively taking part in some of the biggest sailing regattas in the world. In 2002 Paul joined the yachting industry as a Bosun on a 50m Perini Navi sailing yacht and decided yachting is where he wanted to be. Working hard over the next few years Paul got his first captains’ position in 2007 and has been the captain on many different yachts from the 130’ Westport Redemption to the 155’ Perini Navi sailing yacht Helios. When Paul isn’t at work he is still out on the water Spearfishing.

Tyler Viljioen

Tyler was born in East London, South Africa. Growing up on the east coast of Africa is where his passion for the ocean was formed. Any chance he gets he is on a board whether it be surfing, skurfing or wakeboarding. He Started yachting fresh out of high school on some great yachts that travelled extensively. He got his OOW (officer of watch) certificate after his first yacht and over the years he continued to upgrade his qualifications to Chief Mate. At the young age of 26 he was already a chief mate on a well know 60m charter vessel. Tyler started out on the very first Loon as the Bosun for 2 years and has now come back as our chief officer. Knowing the program really well you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable holiday.

Ross Clarke

Ross grew up in England, in a small town called Leighton buzzard. He soon realized once he had finished his studies in mechanical engineering that there were better places in the world suited for him, and it was then when he became a dive instructor in the south pacific. From there he grew a love for boats and the ocean. Since then he has traveled to many different places around the world on yachts including the south pacific, Mediterranean, Africa and the USA. Ross has recently been in school completing his Y1 engineering, which is a great accomplishment.

Ivan Antonic

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Jozo Siscov

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Henro De Vos

Hendrick (Roo), is from a small beach town on the East coast… East coast of South Africa that is! He grew up in the Bluff, South Africa where he developed his love of the sea and all things encompassing. Roo is a really keen body boarder who also loves to scuba dive, free dive, spear fish and anything that can take him on an adventure. Roo has recently completed his OOW (Officer of Watch) and is eager to keep growing with the industry and one day captain his own vessel. His greatest hobby is Scuba diving and loves to take guests to experience it with him.

Blair Van Breda

Blair, like many of the crew, comes from the coastal town of Durban, South Africa. From a young age he had a passion for photography and videography as you will see him never without a camera in hand. In his free time he is on the water kitesurfing and fishing at any opportunity. Fun fact, Blair holds the record for the highest kite boarding jump on board out of the crew.

Tristan Welby-Cooke

Tristan is a young gun who grew up in Cape Town and has a huge love for the ocean, which is what got him into yachting as it was his opportunity to be in the water as a profession. He is an avid surfer and hopes to one day travel around to the best surfing destinations in the world. He also enjoys being in the outdoors surrounded by his closest friends, which you’ll probably see are the deck crew on board as they’re thick as thieves.

Dean Harriso

Dean grew up on the Sunshine Coast in a small coastal town called Noosa, Australia, where he worked as a chef from the age of 15 years old. Dean has been a chef for 17 years and cooking on yachts the past 13 years. Starting onboard dive boats on the Great Barrier Reef where he acquired his Dive Master. Influenced by Asian cuisines including Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese but also loves to cook what’s called modern Australian. In his spare time, he free dives the deepest oceans and snowboards the highest mountains, while also travelling to places that intrigue his taste buds.

Alex is no stranger when it comes to being surrounded by beautiful food and creating lasting memoires. At the age of 12 her grandmother gave her a personalized cookbook that she has kept over the years adding her own special recipes to it. Her grandfather and father owned their own butchery where she used to work as a young girl and it was then she developed her passion for food. Alex constantly keeps us nourished as her approach to cooking is healthy, holistic, fun and vibrant and you can definitely taste it.

Maxine Robert

Maxine was born and raised in Durban, South Africa. She has always had a love for the ocean – a true water baby. From morning dips in the ocean, and fun water activities. From a young age she has always had a passion for traveling. After getting her degree in Psychology and Business, she decided to get into yachting. It has been 10 years & she still loves every aspect of it. She has always had a love for yoga which led her to get her teacher training and is now a qualified yoga teacher. With Max’s bubbly personality you are bound to have a wonderful time onboard Motor Yacht Loon.

Fiona Lewis

Fiona was born and raised in York, England where she completed her Sport and Exercise Science degree. One of her personal training clients suggested she work as a stew/PT on yachts. Being someone who loves to travel she thought why not. This led her to join yachting and the rest is history. She has now been in yachting for 7 years travelling all over the world on the high seas including remote places such as Patagonia, Antarctica and Ushuaia. From the mountain slopes to the ocean, she loves an outdoor activity. You’re always sure to see Fi smiling and making sure you have an optimal experience onboard Loon.

Marguerite Snyman

Marguerite grew up on the sunny South coast of South Africa. After completing her honors degree in Advertising, she traded in her books for flip flops and traveled and taught English in Vietnam. After that she worked in a design and social media company in the beautiful beach town called Ballito along the east coast of South Africa. Being an adventurer, she just couldn’t stay settled and left her job to join the yachting industry. Loon is her first yacht, and she is now fully immersed and loving every aspect of it. Marguerite loves wellness, people, food, nature and is always smiling.

Paige Gafney

Paige is an adventurous, independent and dedicated individual. She is new to the yachting industry but is very motivated to learn new skills and push herself to do her best in anything she sets out to achieve. Paige loves being around new people and has a love for travel. In her previous career of Fashion it allowed her to learn time management, creativity and multi-tasking.

Klara Holubova

Klara is from the Czech Republic. She is a very cheerful, friendly, optimistic, energetic person who loves to learn new things. She is new to yachting and Loon is her very first boat. Klara worked as a Massage practitioner in a 5-star spa on the west coast of Canada for 2 years before joining us. She specializes in Signature Massages, Organic Facials and Massages with Hot Stones.

Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

How much to charter loon.

LOON has a weekly charter price starting at $550,000 and an estimated daily charter price of $91,700.

How many guests on board LOON?

LOON can accommodate 14 sleeping guests on board in 7 cabins.

Where is LOON currently located?

LOON was last seen in Amalfi Coast.

Legal Disclaimer

Motor Yacht LOON is displayed on this page for informational purposes and may not necessarily be available for charter. The yacht details are displayed in good faith and whilst believed to be correct are not guaranteed, please check with your charter broker. Charter Index does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information or images displayed as they may not be current. All yacht details and charter pricing are subject to change without prior notice and are without warranty.

U.S. Customs & Border Protection

The yachting industry has no global listing service to which all charter yachts must subscribe to, making it impossible to ascertain a truly up-to-date view of the market. Charter Index is a news and information service and not always informed when yachts leave the charter market, or when they are recently sold and renamed, it is not always clear if they are still for charter. Whilst we endeavour to maintain accurate information, the existence of a listing on Charter Index should in no way supersede official documentation supplied by the representatives of a yacht.

Specification

Popular related yachts

All About Loon

Motor Yacht Loon has so much to offer guests of all ages. One of the few superyachts that is regularly booked for repeat charter vacations proving that the quality and attention to detail this yacht and her crew provide is hard to find. Captain Paul and his crew are at your service and are ready to make your next superyacht charter uniquely magnificent.

221’ / (67.5m)

Watch our Luxury Superyacht Charter Video

Watch as our superyacht charter guests arrive on Motor Yacht Loon and enjoy seven star service and luxury amenities from start to finish. Check out the breathtaking guest accommodation, awesome water toys collection, relaxing leisure and spa facilities and the mouthwatering cuisine.

Spectacular Superyacht and Crew

Beyond luxurious, this remarkable charter yacht was built in 2010 and refitted in 2014 and 2020. Her pedigree design is by esteemed studio Redman Whiteley Dixon (RWD) and blends performance with comfort and luxury. She boasts a spectacular swimming pool on her main deck, and an exceptional beach club with a dedicated gym, a massage room and a sauna that all open aft to the sea. Her elegant interior of seven staterooms accommodates her 14 overnight guests in sumptuous surroundings. Loon is not only a beautiful superyacht, she also offers world cruising with a range of 6,000 nautical miles.

Loon’s superyacht crew are hand-picked by Design Asset Management to provide incredible service to guests. The crew are one of the reasons Loon is continually rebooked by happy charter clients. The exceptional water sports program is led by Captain Paul Clarke, who is a pro kite surfer.

Explore the Interior

Motor Yacht Loon outshines all other superyachts in her class. The expansive interior spaces have been carefully designed to allow guests to dine, socialise, pamper and entertain themselves as a group, or individually for those who want to appreciate some solitude. Her light and airy interior design, with high ceilings and large windows, creates a tranquil oasis for guests. Choose from several exceptional interior spaces, including a generous main salon that can be transformed into a movie theatre in minutes.

Explore the Exterior

The exterior spaces on board Loon are unmatched. Guests can spend their yacht charter soaking up the sun while lounging by her aft deck swimming pool or enjoying an evening cocktail in her upper deck al fresco dining area. Comfortable loungers are found on each deck, while expansive sunpads surround her bridge deck jacuzzi. Without a doubt, Loon’s beach club is the star of the show. Take a dip in the warm waters of the cruising grounds before relaxing at her on-water level bar.

Superyacht Accommodation

Motor Yacht Loon has seven opulent staterooms that can accommodate up to 12 charter guests. She boasts an on-deck master suite with private access to the sky lounge, a VIP stateroom and a convertible cabin on the upper deck. Her four further staterooms are found on the lower decks and are arranged as two double staterooms and two twin staterooms.

Amenities for Charter Guests

•  Great WiFi
• Air Conditioning Throughout
• Advanced Music System
• Satellite TV
• Large Movie Library
• Swimming Pool
• Exceptional chef
• Air Conditioned and Al Fresco Dining
• Fully Equipped Gym
• Infinity Pool
• Advanced stabilization system
• Extended Toy Box
• Dive Master, Pro surfer and Pro Kite Boarder on board

Motoryacht Loon’s crew works unique ‘charter’ after Hurricane Dorian

Story and photos by Dorie Cox

“It was just like charter,” said Capt. Paul Clarke of M/Y Loon . “But instead of champagne, we were running water to the beach.”

But it wasn’t, really.

It was just days after Hurricane Dorian hit the northern Bahamas. Provisioning aboard M/Y Loon included donated disaster relief supplies. And although the yacht spends eight months a year in the Bahamas, this trip to Grand Bahama was filled with uncertainty after the Category 5 storm.

A drone video showed the 155-foot Christensen small and alone in the bright blue waters just off Marsh Harbour with the caption: “Only boat here.” The next posted videos showed Loon ’s tender heading toward the island, this time: “First people ashore.”

Deckhand Henro De Vos usually uses his GoPro and drone to record smiling charter guests surrounded by green trees and colorful beach toys, but since Sept. 3 his work has shown damaged buildings, broken docks, and brown vegetation. Plus, “charter guests” were up to 28 members of Global Support and Development (GSD), a non-profit group that specializes in disaster relief and humanitarian assistance arranged with YachtAid Global (YAG), a non-profit that coordinates yachts to mobilize to areas of need around the world.

But just like on charter, the yacht’s crew worked hard for a week.

“The crew did no onboard duties; it was all about the mission,” Capt. Clarke said of ferrying doctors, paramedics and GSD personnel between 200-300 miles a day in the tender. They also delivered ice and water. “Ice was more valuable than gold. We ran it into the aid workers and the locals.”

Although different from seasonal charters, similarities were a heavy workload and long hours.

“Six nights felt like a month,” Capt. Clarke said. “We would finish at 1 a.m. when the last tender came back. Then we would be back out at 4 a.m.”

During the first days after the storm, GSD crew assessed damage with a focus on security while Capt. Clarke and First Officer Wesley Tucker measured sonar soundings of the turning basin and pier area.

“Our aim today is to drop anchor a mile offshore and do tender runs in,” Capt. Clarke said by WhatsApp on Sept. 4. “We’ll do a quick ground assessment, and then ferry medical supplies into the clinics. We’ll try to do sounding of the harbor to see if bigger vessels can get in.”

Each night, M/Y Loon moved 2-3 miles offshore and went dark for safety.

The maximum sustained winds of 185 mph that stalled over the area for about 24 hours left no one to manage boat traffic, so Bosun Matthieu Guillaume stepped up to act as temporary harbormaster. As vessels began to arrive with aid, he monitored marine radio channel 16 from the tender in Marsh Harbor. Guillaume maintained communication with incoming and outgoing vessels and radioed in for crew on Loon to check the automatic identification system (AIS) for their location, direction, speed and details to keep traffic organized.

Meanwhile, Chef Cornelius Muller’s food was a bright spot for the GSD crew.

“I think they were most grateful for salad because they had been eating dry rations,” Muller said.

Chief Stew Maxine Robert and Second Stew Lizelle Tucker “kept things moving” onboard with organization, meals, and laundry. Engr. Kevin Parkinson and Second Engr. Lloyd Schluter kept the yacht’s systems running to provide safety and managed systems to make water and offload fuel.

Parkinson dived on a ferry loaded with evacuees to get it running and he used his skills as an engineer to restart the generator at the airport in Marsh Harbour, then helped with an airstrip assessment. He worked on the shore power and distribution panels that were water-logged and destroyed, he said.

“You have one chance with power like that, 480 volt,” Parkinson said. “There is no game with that.”

At the airport some of the yacht crew helped with baggage and handling and Muller stood by with tools to help Parkinson.

“Each of the crew have different skills and there was no way I was going to stay onboard,” Muller said. “I don’t want to hear what you guys did and you say, like, ‘How was your day [onboard]?’ I want to help.”

Each of the crew said the work was worth the challenges. Capt. Clarke remembered a yacht that worked with YAG to provide disaster relief in Vanuatu after Category 5 Cyclone Pam in 2015. That’s when he knew he wanted to help people. And he had a crew that agreed. Everyone “ran 100 percent,” he said. “We definitely were ‘mission accomplished’.”

After the yacht docked back in Fort Lauderdale, several of the crew reflected on the trip at a YAG press conference and after party on Sept. 12.

“The yacht is not damaged,” Clarke said. “With fuel and hard work, it’s easy. Everyone should be doing it.”

“It was a rewarding feeling inside,” Parkinson said of the long hours. “Our three hours’ sleep didn’t mean much when you can help people instead.”

With a background in search and rescue in St. Thomas, Guillaume knew the difficulties the Bahamians face.

“The civilians faced something you usually only see in a war zone,” he said. “We’re really proud we could help.”

And although work to rebuild in the area will be a long-term project, Capt. Clarke said there is hope, and the yacht plans to return.

“We hope to charter there next year, if not the Abacos, definitely back to the Bahamas,” he said. “I think once this really sinks in, it’s kind of a bad dream.”

Capt. Clarke recalled the feeling he had as people evacuated – “It got quieter and quieter until it felt like a ghost town” – and the many messages on his phone and social media. One from a person on island that said his grandfather had a stroke four days before.

“No one is listening,” the person wrote. Later correspondence said, “I thought someone would help, no one is coming.”

The message was immediately relayed to the crew of GSD.

“They got a helicopter there in 20 minutes; they said he would have been dead,” Capt. Clarke said. “I’m getting chills. We had no idea at the time of our impact.”

Dorie Cox is editor of The Triton. Comments are welcome below.

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About Dorie Cox

Dorie Cox is a writer with Triton News.

View all posts by Dorie Cox →

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LOON Yacht – Unforgettable Journey $24 Million Superyacht

This award-nominee superyacht is one of the ten largest private yachts built in the United States in the past 50 years. 

LOON became the first largest ship built by the American shipyard and the first hull of the Newcastle 5500 series. 

LOON Yacht Interior

The LOON yacht interior design was penned by Claudette Bonville Associates. 

Her interior is styled with luxurious woods, including sophisticated African more, wool, and silk fixtures. She has a warm yet bright color scheme giving her a cozy ambiance. 

The interior designer is known for paying attention to detail and this superyacht is not the exception. One of her best attributes is her panoramic sky lounge which can host up to 100 guests. 

LOON can accommodate up to 12 guests across six luxury staterooms, including one master suite, one VIP cabin, and four double cabins. She can also carry 14 crew members on board. 

Each cabin is designed to have private bathroom facilities, a closet, and entertainment systems. LOON features an elevator that connects all the staterooms. 

The American yacht features an exceptional collection of toys such as wave runners, waterskis, wakeboards, bananas, doughnuts, inflatable trampolines, kayaks, sea bobs, waterslides, inflatable water toys, and snorkeling equipment. 

When it comes to entertainment and connectivity, the LOON yacht has you covered with a jacuzzi, gym, beach club, swimming pool, wet bar, air-conditioning, iPod docking, satellite TV, and WIFI. 

LOON Yacht Exterior

Both the LOON yacht exterior and naval architecture were designed by Murray & Associates. 

She is built with a steel hull and aluminum superstructure, featuring a tri-deck made out of Teak. 

For more comfort and security, she has an advanced stabilization system that reduces the roll motion while at anchor.

She is equipped with two tenders, including a 9.75m (32ft) Intrepid Tender. 

LOON Yacht Specifications

The LOON is a 55.0m yacht with a beam of 10.36m, a draft of 3.5m, and a gross tonnage of 1,100. She is powered by twin Caterpillar diesel engines (2,818HP).

She comfortably cruises at 12 knots but has a top speed of 15 knots with a range of 4,500 nautical miles.

This vessel currently sails under the Cayman Islands flag and is part of the top 10% LOA in the world.

She has a water sports program led by Paul Clarke, the captain of the LOON, who is also a pro kite surfer. 

To make the experience even more luxurious, she offers Michelin-level menus and drinks. 

The LOON yacht is also a PADI Certified Training Centre and has two nominations for her unique design. 

She was nominated for Best Displacement Motor Yacht of 500GT to 1,299GT at The World Superyacht Awards 2012 and for Naval Architecture Award: Motor Yachts at The ShowBoats Design Awards 2012. 

According to the official website , the LOON yacht is now the most popular charter yacht in the Caribbean. 

Her summer cruising regions are Croatia, France, Italy, Monaco, Montenegro, Turkey, Amalfi Coast, Corsica, French Riviera, and Sardinia. 

From May to September, the weekly rates can go from 325,000 to 350,000 EUR plus expenses. 

Antigua, Bahamas, Saint Martin, St. Barts, and the Virgin Islands are the winter locations. The rates during this season go from $325,000 to $400,000 per week. 

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By SuperyachtNews 08 Jul 2020

The superyacht Instagram generation

The crew behind the yacht instagram accounts of 'loon' and 'gene machine' discuss the merits of social media….

The documentation of guest experiences on board superyachts is usually limited to through the lenses of paparazzi cameras or staged photo shoots for advertisement campaigns. Notoriously secretive, most superyacht owners and guests see social media as an invasion of privacy and, therefore, it is often frowned upon in the industry. Within the past few years, however, some forward-thinking owners and crew have started recognising the benefits of creating a social media presence for their yachts, particularly on Instagram, a platform centred on images and real-time videos that lends itself well to conveying the on-board superyacht experience.

In particular, charter yachts that wish to capitalise on potential charter revenue are seeing Instagram as a way to attract more clients. The 47m charter motoryacht Loon , for example, is very active on Instagram with over 56,000 followers on its account @motoryachtloon  (at the time of writing), which Captain Paul Clarke believes has been a big part of the yacht’s success on the charter market. Loon did 17 weeks of charter in 2019, and is on track to surpass this with over 20 weeks booked for 2020, having been busy with back-to-back charters throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in May and June this year.

“ Loon is an awesome boat, but she is also a 20-year-old Christensen, so when the owner bought it and said he wanted to charter we discussed what we needed to do to generate hype and make the boat exciting,” explains Captain Clarke. “ Loon has so many cool toys and features on board that it helps get the word out. So, we started the account back in 2017, when there were almost no yachts on Instagram, and it has taken three years to get to nearly 60,000 followers. We hope increase that to over 100,000 followers by the end of this year.”

“It is surprising how many of our followers can charter the yacht – out of 60,000 there are probably 10 to 20 people that can afford to and that is all you need. Our Instagram account alone has generated around three million dollars’ worth of charters over the last three years.”

And increasing Loon ’s Instagram following is definitely worth it, as Captain Clarke acknowledges that the yacht has received charter bookings directly as a result of its Instagram activity. “It is surprising how many of our followers can charter the yacht – out of 60,000 there are probably 10 to 20 people that can afford to and that is all you need,” he says. “Our Instagram account alone has generated around three million dollars’ worth of charters over the last three years.”

But it is not just charter yachts that can see the value in generating a big Instagram following. The 55m private motoryacht Gene Machine was one of the first superyachts to start posting on-board content on Instagram. The yacht’s crew started the @mygenemachine Instagram account four years ago when the yacht began a 9500nm trip from the Mediterranean to the Northern Passage. Gene Machine ’s Chief Officer Tom Milton explains that the social media account exploded due to the spectacular images they were able to post during the trip, and the account now has a following of over 11,000 (at the time of writing).

“ Gene Machine has been on some epic trips compared to most other yachts, so we started the account to show what yachts are capable of, just how far they can go and, in our eyes, what real yachting is about,” says Milton. “It’s a great tool for connecting with other industry providers and it helps with getting different ideas and suggestions at different destinations. We also like building the boat’s brand and reputation for crew recruiting purposes, as well as sharing some of the owner’s amazing scientific projects.”

Gene Machine ’s crew post on the Instagram account frequently, but generating that quality and quantity of content takes a lot of effort and management. “As a crew, we really enjoy sharing the fun moments and experiences we have on Gene Machine ,” adds Milton. “We have two drone pilots on board, several crew with a keen eye for photography, and we get help with content management from a communications company called Vandal.co. We’re all proud of the yacht and the work we put in maintaining it, so social media gives us a way to celebrate that.” 

While there are plenty of external companies out there that could help yachts build a social media presence, for Captain Clarke, having the crew oversee the account is vital to its effectiveness. “It has to be managed by the crew in order to post new and relevant content – a professional social media person wouldn’t be able to get the same story across,” he explains. “And we do it all within superyacht boundaries as well. We only use pictures of the boat and the destinations we are in, but there are never pictures of the guests.” 

While the crews of Gene Machine and Loon might be spearheading the use of Instagram as a tool to promote the on-board superyacht experience, Milton thinks that social media could be utilised much more by the superyacht industry in general. “I think it’s a great way for crews and owners to share what they’re up to, the places they go and how the boat operates,” he concludes. “The more everyone participates, the more we can learn about different products, places and experiences in the industry, as well as cool new destinations for guests and crew to discover.”

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Marketing expert, Callum Gill on the way tools and technology will shape the future demands of consumers

What is the future of boat shows?

A panel discussion on the evolving role of boat shows will take place at The Superyacht Marketing Forum 2019

4 years ago

5 years ago

Exposing the secrets of the yacht owner experience

Influencer marketing – debunking the myth, are you ready for more influence?, sign up to the superyachtnews bulletin.

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