When people think of yachting today, sleek, modern vessels embedded with the latest tech may come to mind. But there’s something undeniably captivating about a yacht that carries a sense of history – enter Camara C, a timeless 1961-built ‘gentleman’s yacht’.
This 105ft beauty, crafted by Yarrow & Co in Glasgow, Scotland, stands as a living testament to a golden era of yachting, where elegance and craftsmanship were the name of the game.
Once known as Maureen Maur, she has long been an emblem of refined yachting, hosting royalty, celebrities and the world’s elite. While her origins may date back more than six decades, Camara C has been lovingly maintained and refitted to blend the best of classic design with modern comforts.
Most recently refitted in 2021, she’s one yacht in the Classic line of charters cruisers offered by Asia Global Yachting (AGY), which operates in southern Thailand and Indonesia. Sailing the waters of southern Thailand, she offers a rare mix of heritage, luxury and contemporary comforts.
A Legacy Restored
Camara C’s origins trace back to the drawing boards of GL Watson & Co, one of the world’s oldest yacht design houses, renowned for its studio in Glasgow. A grand example of traditional yacht building, from her steel hull to her teak decks.
Over the years, careful and precise refits have ensured that her vintage aesthetics remain intact while integrating the latest technology to cater to the needs of today’s luxury travellers. The 2021 refit restored much of her original grandeur, preserving her status as a symbol of mid-20th-century maritime artistry.
The Quintessential ‘Gentleman’s Yacht’
Affectionately referred to as an example of this genre – so-named in its era – Camara C exudes the character and understated charm of a time when yachting was less about flashiness and more about refined leisure. With her canoe stern and classic lines, she cuts a striking figure on the water.
The attention to detail in her design – both inside and out – illustrates the craftsmanship of her builders, who valued both aesthetics and seaworthiness equally.
Spacious Luxury On The High Seas
Her expansive deck areas are perfect for relaxing or socialising. The aft deck features fixed seating and a large dining table that comfortably seats 10 guests, ideal for alfresco dining while taking in panoramic views of the sea. The sundeck is another highlight, with its combination of sun loungers and beds, perfect for soaking up the tropical sun during your charter.
A standout feature aboard Camara C is her spacious accommodation. She can host up to 12 guests across six luxurious cabins, or the same number for day charters, making her an ideal yacht for family holidays or gatherings of friends.
Accommodation includes a master suite on the main deck, complete with a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room, while the remaining five cabins, each also equipped with an en-suite, offer a mix of double and twin bed configurations. The layout ensures both privacy and comfort, a hallmark of her design ethos.
Comfort Meets Character
While her vintage design remains at the forefront of her appeal, Camara C’s well-tuned mechanical reliability, and a host of on-board marine toys available are also part of the allure.
Powered by two 230hp Gardner engines from the UK, she can reach a cruising speed of 10 knots, with a top speed of 12 knots. This steady pace, combined with her 16,500-litre fuel capacity, gives her an exceptional range of 4,376 nautical miles – a feature that opens exciting cruising grounds across Southeast Asia and beyond.
For those seeking a little adventure on and below the water, Camara C comes equipped with a speedy Valiant 690 Sport Black Carbon tender and a wide array of water toys, including, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkelling gear.
These amenities ensure that guests can explore secluded bays and clear Southeast Asian waters, adding layers of fun and exploration to the serene luxury she offers.
An Icon In Southeast Asia
Currently based in Phuket, Thailand, Camara C welcomes her passengers to take in some of the most breathtaking cruising grounds of Southeast Asia, including the Andaman Sea. This region, known for its turquoise waters, vibrant marine life and pristine islands, provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable yachting experience.
Waking up to the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay, exploring secluded beaches or diving into the vibrant marine life that surrounds Thailand’s islands are just a few possibilities while aboard. Whether it’s a family holiday, a romantic escape or a corporate retreat, this cruiser offers a unique combination of old-world charm and modern luxury that few yachts can match.
Camara C’s inflatable ‘floating beach’ is a favourite fun yacht extension across charter group types, swiftly installed at anchor against photogenic backdrops.
The Perfect Setting For Special Events
With her spacious sundeck and elegant interiors, Camara C is also an excellent choice for hosting intimate events.
Outdoor dining and drinks
The aft deck’s large dining table, which can be extended to accommodate up to 10 guests, makes her ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or milestone birthdays. Additionally, her timeless design lines and classic ambiance provide a picturesque setting for luxury photoshoots or film projects.
Camara C offers an experience that is rare in the world of luxury yachting: an alluring blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. Her pedigree, combined with high-quality refits, ensures that guests experience the best of both worlds.
Images courtesy of Asia Global Yachting.
This story was first seen on Yachtstyle.Co.
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