Newly Refitted Alloy Superyacht AKIKO Opens for Charter in Australia

By Rebecca Bradbury 3 April 2017

The 34m/112ft expedition yacht AKKIO – previously named VvS1 – is now available for charter in Australia following an extensive refit at New Zealand yard McMullen and Wing.

Originally built by Alloy Yachts in 2007, AKIKO was re-launched after a five-month transformation in December last year. Now based in Perth, she is offering charters along the west coast of Australia, from the idyllic Coral Coast to the spectacular waters of Kimberley, until October 2017.

A go-anywhere adventurer, she is perfectly suited for exploring the wonderfully wild and remote cruising grounds. Her versatility ensures she is just as at home entering small secluded bays as she is anchoring behind coral atolls or game fishing over submarine reefs.

Indeed, some of the world’s most diverse marine habitats are found along the Coral Coast. Discover amazing dive sites such as World Heritage-listed Shark Bay and Ningaloo Reef – the largest fringing reef on earth – just metres from pristine beaches, dazzling gorges and the lunar-like Pinnacles.

Kimberley, meanwhile, is one of the planet’s last wilderness frontiers. Located in the northwest corner of Australia, the region offers yacht-goers red, rugged landscapes, majestic canyons, magnificent waterfalls, iconic beaches, prolific wildlife, Aboriginal rock art and 2,600 islands to discover.

idyllic beach of Cape Leveque with red rocks and blue waters in Kimberley, Australia

moon-like landscape of the Pinnacles in Western Australia

paddle boarders explore the clear, still waters of the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia

turquoise waters along the rocky coastline of Kimberley in Australia

Not only does charter yacht AKIKO boast impressive ocean-going capabilities, she is also laced in luxuries for guests to enjoy. In 2008, she was awarded four prestigious World Superyacht Awards and her latest series of work ensures she continues to wow all those who step aboard.

On deck, guests can escape to her sundeck for lounging opportunities, and the chance to enjoy alfresco dining and snacks from the Teppanyaki grill. There is also a comfortable seating area on the main deck aft, leading to a swim platform especially suited for game fishing.

As well as extensive fishing and spearfishing equipment on board, there is also scuba diving and snorkelling gear, and water toys such as WaveRunners, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and surfboards. These ensure hours of entertainment for all ages aboard the expedition yacht.

During a private yacht charter, up to 10 guests can be accommodated on board in four staterooms, including a master suite, a VIP suite, a double cabin and a twin cabin with a Pullman berth.

Not much is known yet about her refit, but recent photos reveal she is missing her red boot strap after a full re-paint. She now features a completely dark grey hull and sparkling silver superstructure.