Salacia: Refit and Ready

by Kim Kavin

In August 2012, the 115-foot motoryacht Salacia completed a refit that gave her all new electronics, an entirely new interior, and bragging rights as not only the largest but also the most newsworthy Broward in the RJC Yachts charter fleet. That’s a noteworthy distinction, since RJC has quietly and nicely amassed a fleet that contains a number of Browards for clients who want a motoryacht charter experience that won’t break the bank.

Salacia, a 115 Broward built in 1997, has just completed a refit of her interior and electronics.

Broward Marine has struggled in recent years, but previously it was known for turning out good-value, thoughtfully laid-out charter yachts. The builds that have been nicely maintained and refitted still fit that description, and these can often provide some of the best family experiences on the water.

That’s why RJC Yachts continues to market so many of them for charter. The larger Browards in their charter fleet include Salacia, which was built in 1997; the 112-foot Lady Sharon Gale, which launched in 1999; the 108-foot Chasing Daylight, which is a 1998 build; the 105-foot Independence 2, which was built in 1993; the 103-foot Trilogy, which launched in 1988; and the 100-foot Won Buy Land (great boat name!), which is a 1999 build.

Salacia's galley has been completely updated, along with the rest of the spacious interior.

Those build years, on paper, might be a turn-off to some people. But when there have been recent and substantial refits like the one just completed aboard Salacia, these Browards continue to be terrific charter platforms that offer great experiences at a fraction of the price that newer yachts in the same size range can charge. Salacia, for instance, has a lowest weekly base rate of $38,000 for eight guests with four crew, and is a freshly refitted yacht with a seasoned charter crew. Newer motoryachts the same exact size, taking the same number of guests, often charge weekly base rates of $50,000 or more—or a full 25 percent more than Salacia for a very similar on-water experience.

When you add an experienced charter captain, chef, and crew to a yacht that has been well maintained and updated over the years, you have everything required for a memorable crewed charter vacation. I applaud RJC Yachts for helping to keep these Browards up to date, because they provide a more affordable option for anyone who wants to experience a megayacht charter. They are often an ideal option for first-time charter clients, as well as for families with young children who don’t want to have to worry about ornate décors.

I also applaud owners like Salacia’s, who are continuing to invest in these Browards to keep them competitive in their market segment. They are making it possible for entry-level clients to enjoy a fantastic charter experience.