Five of the coolest charter yachts with certified helipads

July 22, 2024

Helicopter operations are essential for discovering uncharted territory from your superyacht. Whether you want to ski in pristine slopes in the Arctic, explore lush rainforests, or roam undulating deserts, there is only one way to get there – by helicopter.

But superyacht helicopter operations aren’t only for the most intrepid explorers. Helicopter travel broadens any charter itinerary. They are the quickest, most efficient way to get deeper into land and open the potential to explore destinations off the coastline. Geographical barriers, such as mountains and lakes, are easily bypassed and guests can board their yacht without the need to travel to ports and harbours. Meetings and business appointments can also be kept, without impacting too much of the all-important vacation downtime.

To facilitate helicopter operations on a charter yacht, unlike privately operated vessels, the helipad must be commercially certified. And there are surprisingly very few yachts which meet the criteria – less than 30 superyachts in the global charter fleet.

Here is the rundown of some of the coolest yachts built by five different builders, with certified helipads available for charter:

77m | LA DATCHA | Damen | 2020

LA DATCHA underscores adventure. If you’re aboard this outstanding superyacht by Damen, you’re exploring some of the most exciting destinations the world has to offer. Nothing is off-limits with LA DATCHA, and no two charter trips are ever the same. She was built to withstand the harshest environments and reach the remotest destinations.

This is one of the most versatile superyachts available for charter; she’s self-sufficient for up to 40 days, and her broad carry capacity and flotilla of toys ensure that you’re well-equipped for every adventure. LA DATCHA has not one but two certified helipads; however remote you are, all guests can safely explore, so no one misses out on these unforgettable experiences.

LA DATCHA is in the midst of a global tour. Her next destination is the Pacific, and bookings can still be made to experience the wonders of the largest and deepest of the world’s oceans. Some of the planned islands include Tahiti, Easter Island, and Johnston Island. Bookings can be made from $630,000 per week.

95m | O’PARI | Golden Yachts | 2020

O’PARI is the queen of Athens. She’s majestic, and at 95 metres, she is the largest yacht ever built by Golden Yachts. O’PARI has a discrete touch-and-go helipad located on the foredeck, which when not in use, can function as an outdoor studio for activities such as yoga and Pilates.

The interior design is graceful and refined. Studio Vafiadis interplayed classic romanticism with contemporary charm; intricate Greek marble and mosaics are balanced by bold art pieces, just as delicate and precious materials are counterbalanced by heavily varnished panels of ebony, ash, lime, and walnut burr. Highlights include a fully stocked gym, a swimming pool, a Finnish sauna, and a massage and beauty parlour.

O’PARI is available for charter during the summer season in the Mediterranean from €1,100,000 per week.

96.6m | FAITH | Feadship | 2017/22

FAITH has a sinuous exterior design that’s elegant and beautifully proportioned to disguise her sheer size. She is characterised by a flared bow that features a helicopter landing pad with a hangar below for a Bell 429 WLG helicopter. The foredeck is multifunctional and doubles as a game’s deck.

The multi-award-winning superyacht is packed with world-class features, including a large glass-bottomed swimming pool, a cinema, a spa with a Hammam and cold room, a massage parlour, and a gym. The accommodation aboard FAITH is flexible for up to 12 guests. She has a crew of 26 members.

FAITH charters from €1,700,000 per week and is available in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean for the summer and winter seasons, respectively.

112m | RENAISSANCE | Freire | 2024

The 112m/367’5″ motor yacht ‘Renaissance,’ built in 2023 by Freire Shipyard with interior design by Bannenberg & Rowell, is a premier choice for luxury charters. Accommodating up to 36 guests in 19 suites, and served by 44 crew members, this yacht offers unmatched comfort and elegance.

Notable amenities include a helipad, beauty salon, movie theatre, spa, elevator, beach club, gym, and deck jacuzzi. Powered by 3 Caterpillar engines, she cruises at 12 knots with a range of 8,600 nautical miles. The yacht features an extensive array of water toys, including Jet Skis, WaveRunners, and a Cockwells Limo Tender.

Charter rates start at €3,000,000 per week, plus expenses.

126.2m | OCTOPUS | Lürssen | 2006/21

OCTOPUS is one of the most famous superyachts in the world. She is the ultimate explorer, having travelled to every corner of the globe, and was one of the best-kept secrets until she became available for charter in 2021.

With an Ice Class hull, multiple helipads, seven tenders, and an ROV, nothing is left undiscovered. OCTOPUS marries scientific research with luxury living and has proudly hosted many important oceanographic explorations over the years. Spanning eight decks, OCTOPUS is a feat of marine engineering, and the wealth of amenities is unrivalled.

OCTOPUS is available for charter in the Mediterranean this season from €2,200,000 per week. Winter bookings can also be arranged by request.