La Sultana Yacht: A Unique, Extraordinary, and Remarkable History

The adventure began in 1962, on the Black Sea shores, in the largest shipyard, Varna in Bulgaria. Built for the Russian fleet, Aji-Petri is the fifth of a serie of 12 ships. The “Sister Ships” are intended for transporting freight and passengers between the ports of Odessa, Yalta, Sebastopol, Istanbul, between the Azov and Crimea Seas. 

Aji-Petri carried on board 102 passengers in cabins, 110 on the deck and 46 crew members. Her small draught of 3 m and sleek hull design made her an ideal method of transportation at the time. It might always have been so…

In 1970, amidst global political tension, the “Sister Ships” became very particular vessels. During the Cold War, the Soviet Union gradually removed its passenger fleet from the Black Sea in order to use it for strategic purposes for various ministries[1].

Aji-Petri was sent to the North Atlantic to be used as a radio relay for the International Telecommunication Union, and unofficially, to eavesdrop for the benefit of her country. During the Soviet space exploration age, the “Sister Ships’” involvement was such that a series of stamps was printed to glorify them. They became part of the heroic saga of an entire nation. 

When the Soviet Union fell, Aji-Petri was transferred to a Bulgarian shipping company and resumed her initial duties between Yalta and Istanbul. 

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Refit for Re-Creation
(1962 - Refit 2015)

M/Y La Sultana, 65,40 meters, will be re-launched in July 2015 after a seven-year total reconversion and a metamorphosis requiring over one million two hundred thousand hours of labour.

In 2007, La Sultana Group, attracted by her elegant silhouette, design, strength and exceptional history, acquired the yacht La Sultana, thus renamed, and started a new project: to rebuild her into a ship that embodies the ideal of travel in an exceptional décor.

The stake for this reconversion was to preserve the authenticity and elegance of her glorious past, reconfigure the interior and exterior spaces, while integrating the most modern and advanced technology. La Sultana Yacht took the time needed and had an unlimited budget at her disposal.

This ambitious restoration was led by a team of naval construction and navigation professionals under the leadership of the French naval architecture company Orion Naval Engineering and the supervision of the RINA classification office and the flag authorities. A project that was both thorough and colossal. 

Main Technical Upgrades

• The aluminum superstructure was rebuilt according to its original shape and entirely re-riveted, giving it the firmly classic silhouette of a “Gentleman Yacht”. After doing ultrasonic thickness measurements of the entire hull and structure under the supervision of RINA, close to 25% of shell plates and 80% of deck plates have been replaced, as well as a number of frames and beams.
  
• For a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, the masts were returned to their original location and all the decks were redone in ipe wood.
  
• The bow was raised to form a shielded area, thus creating an upper space with a helicopter hoisting aera, and a leisure space with sea water jacuzzi and loungers.
  
• A side hydraulic door was installed on the starboard side of the ship near the bow, adding a swimming platform and a direct access to the sea – a technical feat sure to please nautical sports enthusiasts. 
  
• To improve stability, La Sultana was also fitted with an improved underwater profile with a streamlined massive keel weighing 90 tons.
  
• With her classic line and unique vintage style, La Sultana also belongs to the category of modern yachts, thanks to her brand new main engine and the refit of modern navigational equipment. A new diesel Mitsubishi engine and reducing gear was installed to keep the same rotation speed of the shaft line and preserve the original propeller. Cruise speed is approximately 11 knots, with a maximum of about 13 knots.
• The engine room was fitted with four generators providing between 90 kW and 180 kW each used depending on the needs. In addition to those, an extra emergency generator was fitted.

[1] Source: Norman Polmar, The Naval Institute Guide to the Soviet Navy, US Naval Institute Press, 1991. 

La Sultana is a 65,40m classic yacht offering at the same time modern amenities and timeless Gentleman Yacht style.

What is a Classic Yacht:

« The definition of a classic yacht is not clearly defined, although those in the industry would agree that a classic yacht is a vessel built between the 1920’s through to the 1970’s, typically built from wood or steel. Classic yacht enthusiasts believe the graceful lines, fine craftsmanship and character of a classic yacht embodies a sense of nostalgia and seaman ship unsurpassed by other styles of luxury yachts. A classic yacht is often favoured by the traditionalist amongst yacht charterer, with something timeless and elegant about a classic yacht charter that just does not transpire to a modern yacht. (...) The beauty of chartering a classic motor yacht is to experience a little piece of yachting history.» Yacht Charter Fleet (The World's No.1 Luxury Yacht Charter website)

• A Gentleman Yacht
  Intentionally and because La Sultana's uniqueness and charm are coming from her very classic line, the original external appearance has not been fundamentally changed. La Sultana Yacht owed it to herself to preserve her roots. The embarkation deck superstructure is slightly longer for technical reasons. The principal portholes are of origin. Even the new superstructure has been deliberately redone to the model: plated and riveted in the traditional manner.
• Exterior Amenities
  Redesigning of the exterior space was essential. It was very important to save the original ship’s character, while at the same time improving the living areas. The mahogany corridors are large, enjoyable for strolling, and remind us of the mythical transatlantic liners. The four outdoor's decks offer access to unique areas: a lounging area on the fly-bridge, a vast sunbathing area around the Jacuzzi at the bow and two outside dining and lounging areas located on the aft upper and embarkation deck. 
• Interior Decor of Timeless Elegance
  Master craftsmen and materials were scrupulously selected to enhance the experience on La Sultana – sculpted wood, marquetry, shiny varnishes… For an unforgettable voyage, the richness of ancestral knowhow was essential. The one hundred square meter reception area includes a lounge and dining hall, for inside privacy, on the upper deck. Detailed carvings into solid wood adorn the walls and ceilings. Massive sculpted glass walls allow you to peek into the cosy lounge. Copper and frosted crystal light fixtures provide a warm glowing atmosphere.
  There are four “Prestige” cabins and two “Suites” on the main and upper decks, and the “Suite Armateur” forward of the embarkation deck with its large portholes overlooking the sea and adjacent private office. No matter the cabin, the artfully mastered woodwork and variety of exotic essences transform each space into a precious setting. The master craftsmen have done exceptional work with essences of rare wood – mahogany, cherrywood, cedars from the Atlas and America; milletia and Brazilian cherry wood for the floors; iroko and ipe for the decks. The bathrooms are brightened with shiny marble and onyx which colours vary according to their origin. Everywhere, works of art and paintings adorn the walls. An impressive collection of oriental art adds a touch here and there. A new central staircase with a splendid harmoniously curved banister, inspired by the famous “Monnaie-du-Pape” banister by Louis Majorelle, serves as a link between the main and the upper decks.
  In the engine room, the gleaming pipes with geometric lines transform the space into a gigantic Mondrian painting. Metal is king in this immaculate setting. Traditional instruments have been preserved to be reminiscent of the ship’s early days. Take the time to relax and dream for a moment in an atmosphere of travel and exploration. In the pilot house, you will find the same desire to be reminded of the times gone by with the original steering gear control and chadburn kept alongside their modern counterpart.

La Sultana has been transformed into a classic, luxurious 65,40-metre yacht, following the latest standards of safety, performance and comfort.
On this unique six decker yacht, five are dedicated to the life on board at the discreet care of the 17 crew members. 

• Technical data
• Deck Plan

On board, you will find the comfort of a luxury hotel with precious wood floors and panels and the finest fabrics.

Each of the seven cabins comes equipped with a King Size bed (either double or 2 single beds at your request), flat screen television and DVD player, iPod station, dressing table, marble and onyx bathroom each with shower, bathtub and separate WC.

Armateur Cabin: 66m² - Exclusive room for the guest who dreams of becoming the owner M/Y La Sultana for a few days. The Armateur Suite is located on the embarkation deck and offers an unobstructed view of the horizon and a private outside space. The Suite is equipped with a living area that includes a discrete separate office and a bedroom facing the sea.

Deluxe Suite: 36m² - 2 suites located on the upper deck with a view of the sea from large portholes.

Prestige Cabin: 22m² - 4 cabins located on the main deck with view of the sea through the portholes. 

A yacht is not enough!

Private breakfast, lunch and dinner are set out for you throughout your stay in appealing and exceptional areas on the Yacht, in the spacious indoor or outdoor spaces.

Whatever your mood, enjoy an elegant dinner under the stars on the upper deck or a relaxing barbecue on the white sandy beach of an island port of call. 

M/Y La Sultana offers exceptional service in complete discretion at the time of your choosing.

According to your desires and the local specialties, and to ensure quality and freshness, we offer customised menus and a personalised selection of wines and champagnes. 

For the ultimate epicurean delight, enjoy gourmet cooking classes provided from the upper deck overlooking the sea

One of the main feat of the yacht can be found on the main deck. A lateral door opens up creating a beach-club with direct access to the sea. This is sure to please all guests. The Marina also allows for tenders and nautical equipment to dock alongside the yacht. And this is where you will find the relaxing traditional Hammam and the indoor fresh-water swimming pool of 5 by 2.5m with counter current swimming, all offering an exceptional view of the sea just like in an infinity pool. The yacht also boast a sea water jaccuzi on the bow.

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TOYS & EQUIPMENT ON BOARD

M/Y La Sultana provides diving equipment, water skis, windsurfing boards, sea kayaks, bicycles, and includes all the space necessary to add any piece of equipment upon request (Jet Skis, surf boards, Kite Surf, Golf).

At your disposal during your trips are: two limited edition Nantucket “Sellerie by Lancel”, one rib tender XPRO 490 and the legendary Saint-Tropez “Mini-Moke” 4x4.  

• La Sultana Tender I – 7.70-m limited edition Nantucket “Sellerie by Lancel”
  
• La Sultana Tender II - 7.70-m limited edition Nantucket “Sellerie by Lancel”
  
• Semi-rigid XPRO 490 Tender
  
• Working tender
• Mini-Moke
  
• Diving equipment (diving suits, flippers, masks, snorkels, Bauer compressors)
  
• 2 sets of water skis (1 adult and 1 child)
  
• 1 wakeboard
  
• Towables
  
• 3 paddles
  
• 2 sea kayaks
  
• 6 bicycles

Seventeen professional crew are present, with the unique aim of sharing with you their love of navigation and providing you with a personalized and tailored experience during your stay on board.

Beyond the well-thought detailed appearance, M/Y La Sultana has hired a staff of the best professionals in each field to establish a cohesive and effective team that is ready to welcome you.

Trained to create unforgettable moments, the crew is attentive to you and your family’s needs at all times. 

We will take great pleasure in creating a unique experience for you on board that is unique, personalised and exclusive. Please contact us directly or through your regular travel agent.

Designing a personalized experience:

1 – Tell us your expectations (dates, destinations, activities, preferences)  
2 – Receive your customized itinerary and a proposal
3 – Confirm your reservation and receive the charter contract
4 – Our concierge service is available to customize your experience (book the best tables, find unique activities to be experienced at your destination, obtain a summary of the places to visit, excursions to be considered, plan your activities, etc.)  

To meet your needs and wishes, enjoy a free chartering within a perimeter of 1000 miles (or 1600 km).

We will suggest navigation zones to help you enjoy the best meteorological conditions at any time around the year.

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General Conditions:

The price includes exclusive rental of M/Y La Sultana, the crew and insurance for the yacht.

The APA (“Advance Provisioning Allowance”) cost covers the extras (chartering the yacht for a destination beyond the 1000 miles, fuel, meals, drinks, docking and communication fees, etc.). It is estimated to 25% of the rental price at the time of booking, and is payable by the client.

We will keep a meticulous account of the expenses, which the Captain will present in the form of a detailed statement along with the corresponding receipts. Any unused amount shall be remitted to the Client, and conversely, any deficit shall be payable by the Client.

The reservation department will send you a MYBA charter contract detailing the Yacht characteristics, dates agreed upon, destinations and navigation regions, and price. To guarantee this reservation, you must return the MYBA contract signed along with a 50% deposit of the travel amount. The balance of the reservation is due one month before the start of the charter.