Alloy Yachts, the New Zealand yard that built some of the most celebrated sailing superyachts of the early 21st century, produced vessels of extraordinary quality before closing in 2015. The small number of Alloy Yachts craft available in charter today are collector pieces: lightweight, stiff, and fast under sail, with interior quality that reflects the craft heritage of New Zealand boatbuilding. In the Abacos, these sailing superyachts find ideal waters. The Sea of Abaco provides protected downwind sailing from Hope Town north to Green Turtle Cay, while the outer ocean passages between the reef cuts deliver genuine blue-water sailing to those who want it. Alloy Yachts typically built vessels of 30 to 50 metres in length, with carbon or aluminium construction and Hallberg-Rassy-grade fit-out in wood and stainless. The crew on these vessels tends toward the seamanlike: sailing-first captains who know how to use the trade winds rather than motoring everywhere. The Abacos spring season, March through June, sees reliable southeast trade winds that are perfect for the inside passage from Marsh Harbour north. The advance provisioning allowance on an Alloy Yachts charter runs to around 30 percent of the weekly fee, covering fuel for the auxiliary engines on calm-water passages, provisioning from Marsh Harbour and Man-O-War Cay, marina fees and drinks. These are rare yachts; availability must be confirmed well in advance, and a survey report from the managing broker is a prudent step before committing to a booking.
