yacht in africa

Africa Yacht Charter

Explore the continent of Africa in a completely different way, dive into the Indian Ocean's crystal blue water and discover the thriving marine life and the psychedelic colours of the coral reefs.

Enjoy the perfect combination of the safari and sea life in Tanzania, from candlelit dinners in the bush on safari to swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Zanzibar. From cave diving and heli-rides across Madagascar to marine excursions and horseback riding across the beach in Mozambique, Africa offers a truly sensation yacht charter experience.

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Guide to Africa

A melting pot of colour and contrasts

This remarkable continent boasts an abundance of magnificent countries and stunning archipelago’s, offering truly exhilarating and unforgettable experiences. The very name itself conjures up images of vast open plains, wildlife encounters and iconic scenery. Encompassed by the Mediterranean Sea to the North and Indian Ocean to the southeast, Africa provides some of the most extraordinary cruising grounds where visitors can revel in the pebbly shorelines, sunlit beaches and magnificent island retreats.

To the northeast of Africa lies the alluring country of Egypt . Hugged by the Red Sea and teeming with historical landmarks, Egypt is an idyllic location and perfect for exploring stunning sandy beaches, striking landscape scenery and world-class diving spots. Burrowed between the northeast and northwest sits Tunisia, boasting one of the best known marina’s on the bay of Tunis. Framed by lush green scenery, the marina of Sidi Bou Said offers breathtaking views and crystalline waters making for a picturesque setting at anchor. With elusive city remains and arcs of golden sands close by this is a popular location for those looking to explore some of Tunisia’s picture perfect delights. More marinas can be found to the east coast where coffee houses, medieval quarters, vibrant markets and fishing harbours are waiting to be explored.

To Africa’s northwest lies Morocco, a profusion of life, colour and music which is famed for cities such as Casablanca and Marrakech. Morocco is a captivating destination which will awaken the senses and the soul with its beachfront beauty and vibrant markets making for an intoxicating stay.

Venture further south to visit the small yet enthralling nation of Djibouti. Rich in culture, adventure and intriguing character, Djibouti is nestled in the horn of Africa, though what it lacks in size it makes up for in charisma and charm. Lying to the southeast, Mozambique boasts a rustic charm and a laid back ambience for a relaxing charter vacation. This indulgent destination is brimmed with beautiful oases, secluded archipelagos and excellent fishing opportunities. With stunning tropical beaches and beautiful coastlines, Mozambique offers the ultimate escape.

For jungle adventures, safari wildlife and lush rainforests, Madagascar is a haven for outdoor lovers. Sitting in the Indian Ocean , this island country is teeming with exotic flora and fauna and is home to some of the most remarkable wildlife in the world. Beautiful arcs of sandy beaches invite tranquil serenity making this the ultimate island retreat.

The captivating land of South Africa lies to the southernmost tip of this bronzed continent and is home to a plethora of astounding landmarks and cosmopolitan cities. From deserted coastlines and safari adventures to the allure of Table Mountain, South Africa is brimmed with momentous experiences and true yachting delights.

Aside from breathtaking nature and heart stopping beauty it is the people of Africa who capture the hearts of all who travel here, with their warmth and hospitality making in difficult not to return time and again for years to come. Extensively regarded as a conspicuous yacht charter destination, Africa is unobtrusively gaining a devoted following attracted by its distinctive way of life and unparalleled collection of sights, activities and natural marvels.

An enlightening and intriguing continent, just one visit to Africa will keep you coming back time and again.

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Featured Luxury Yachts for Charter

This is a small selection of the global luxury yacht charter fleet, with 3697 motor yachts, sail yachts, explorer yachts and catamarans to choose from including superyachts and megayachts, the world is your oyster. Why search for your ideal yacht charter vacation anywhere else?

446ft | Lurssen

from $4,446,000 p/week ♦︎

378ft | Lurssen

from $2,895,000 p/week ♦︎

279ft | Golden Yachts

from $1,000,000 p/week ♦︎

289ft | Golden Yachts

from $1,223,000 p/week ♦︎

274ft | Feadship

from $1,111,000 p/week ♦︎

305ft | Feadship

from $1,556,000 p/week ♦︎

Maltese Falcon

289ft | Perini Navi

from $490,000 p/week

400ft | Lurssen

from $3,000,000 p/week

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Fountaine Pajot Sailing Catamaran 42 Astréa

Sunreef Power 80 New

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MORE THAN YOU EXPECT FROM A PREMIUM DAYBOAT

Sunreef Sailing 50

At boating world we are proud of our reputation as the leading african importer of luxury sailing and motor-yachts..

The portfolio of brands that we represent equals our understanding of flawless class and appeal.

We are the principal boat dealer for Azimut Yachts, Fountaine Pajot, Jeanneau and Sunreef Yachts.

We offer these luxury boats for sale in Angola, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, the Seychelles, South Africa and Tanzania.

Since our establishment in 1999, we have successfully safeguarded the delivery of countless new motor yachts, sailing boats and catamarans into many African countries as well as the adjacent Indian Ocean Islands.

Super Yachts along the African coastline are growing in numbers, for clientele in the market to buy a 80ft or larger mega yacht, our Azimut and Benetti ranges are custom built for top-drawer affluence.

Our clients can be assured that we can always offer a wide range of yachts and boats for sale to suit their lifestyle.

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Search our pre-owned range, attention to detail.

The Boating World name is synonymous with the luxury yachting lifestyle. Our experience in the sale of luxury yachts from the world's most prestigious boat builders in Europe has given us a wealth of knowledge in marine transport logistics.

Known for our absolute attention to detail concerning even the most basic necessities, our highly experienced team offers boat buyers exceptional delivery and after-sales service.

Our pre-owned boats division offers an extensive range of choices to clients looking to buy quality second-hand motor yachts, super yachts, catamarans, and sailing boats available for sale from across Southern Africa and Europe.

We distribute a range of boating accessories and are the exclusive African agents for Airberth Boat Lifts.

With boat sales operations in Cape Town and Durban, Boating World provides a strong network of service and support to boat buyers and owners wherever they might find themselves along the African coastline.

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AFRICA I Yacht – Elite $17M Superyacht

The AFRICA I yacht is a sensational and impressive yacht that is built by the Italian shipyard Benetti , the only superyacht brand that has won the Boats International magazine Shipyard number 1 award six times in a row.

Her design was penned by Zuretti , a French yacht designer that specializes in unique, custom designs with elaborate modern and international residence interior. On the other hand, her dazzling exterior is designed by Stefano Natucci.

She is full of endless possibilities which makes her a popular choice with celebrities. In 2019, she was the charter yacht of choice for footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and his family.

AFRICA I yacht interior

Designed by Zuretti, her interior exudes a contemporary vibe that is perfect for family-friendly and accessible charters. 

She has beautifully styled light and airy interiors thanks to its panoramic windows that offer fabulous views. Her funky furnishings and vibrant colors radiate a modern and inviting feel. 

Her main salon is arranged in an open plan with the formal dining room on the main deck, as well as a big sky lounge on the top deck.

Both terraces outside are encircled by floor-to-ceiling windows that provide spectacular views. 

Located on the main deck forward, the master suite enjoys a forward-facing vista as well as its own private outside area.

Additionally, there are several al fresco dining and sitting options, as well as a big retractable swim platform.

Specifications

The AFRICA I yacht is a 46.99 m / 154′2″ luxury motor yacht built with an aluminum superstructure. She benefits from a semi-displacement hull that is great for seakeeping and speed. 

Thanks to her twin MTU M90 16V 4000 engines, she can comfortably cruise at a speed of 12 knots and can reach a maximum speed of 24.2 knots.

She has a range of up to 3,915 nautical miles from her 65,000-liter fuel tanks and is equipped with at-anchor stabilizers that provide outstanding comfort.

The Benetti superyacht ‘Africa I’ is designed to provide visitors with exceptionally unforgettable charter vacations, thanks to the exceptional build quality of the legendary Italian shipyard that built her.

Her sleek exterior features an outside living area that is spread across three decks and is excellent for those looking for the utmost in leisure or for those who want to party in elegance. 

The aft deck is sheltered and has a dining table for al fresco eating and easy access to the lower swim platform. 

There is also an extra outdoor dining option and sun cushions that are located on the top deck.

Her spacious sundeck is ideal for any event with a Jacuzzi, sun pads, outdoor eating areas, chaise loungers, and partial shade, among other amenities.

Accommodation

The AFRICA I yacht can accommodate 12 guests across six cabins, including a master cabin on the main deck with a private terrace, and a VIP cabin on the upper deck. 

Being a family-friendly yacht, she also has two doubles and two twins on the lower deck, including a special twin kids’ cabin. 

Guests will be in good hands with her experienced crew of 12, who are dedicated to creating special charter memories for their guests. 

AFRICA I is an especially popular choice for families, with numerous family-friendly touches throughout the yacht.

She boasts a large lineup of water toys that include an Onda GT 10m chase tender, a Castoldi 21 Beach ladder 6m tender, Seabobs, Seadoo wave runners, and paddleboards.

It is estimated that the cost of the AFRICA I yacht is US$ 17 million, with an annual operating cost of US$ 1 – 2 million.

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Based in Cape Town, South Africa, Yacht & Power Sales is a brokerage company that deals in the sale of new and second-hand sailing yachts, catamarans and motorboats. We not only operate locally but nationally and internationally.

I wanted freedom, open air, and adventure. I found it on the sea.

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Yacht & Power Sales are yachting experts that can help you find Sail and Motor Yachts for sale or list your yacht for sale. We provide our customers with the individual care, support, and results they deserve. You can rely on us to guide you through the process of purchasing or selling a yacht when you need a reliable partner. 

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Based in Cape Town, South Africa, we are a brokerage company that deals in the sales of new and second-hand sailing yachts, catamarans and motorboats. We operate locally, nationally and internationally, sharing our passion for boating with people around the globe.

We can provide advisory in areas of surveys, valuations, insurance, transportation, deliveries, mooring, equipment acquisitions, clubs and associations etc. With this experience we can guide, give advice and make recommendations which will aid you in your journey.

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Chris- thank you for the exceptional service you gave me with the purchase of Tiketi Bu. Your assistance and professionalism way exceeded my expectations and you made the process far less daunting than I expected.

Wynand and myself just want to take this opportunity to thank Thomas for the excellent service we have received (and continue receiving) when purchasing Nyamezela via Yacht & Power Sales. It is a huge risk buying a boat in Cape Town when both partners are situated in Gauteng.

Since the very first call Thomas replied prompt and without any delays. He organised a pre-sale survey as well as haul-out / external hull survey of the yacht. When we arrived from Johannesburg everything was in place and Thomas handled all the paperwork, very professional. He even helped offloading the old life raft, took it in his own vehicle to get a quote for servicing, collected, delivered it for a second opinion… all on his own expense. Nothing we asked extra was too much. This was certainly a very good boat buying experience and we can recommend Thomas / Yacht & Power Sales without hesitation.

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AFRICA I for charter

Built by Benetti in 2010, Africa I is a sensational yacht that is sure to impress. A refresh in 2021, including a brand new contemporary interior, has left her in as-new condition and an unbeatable base for enjoying a charter to remember. A popular choice with celebrities, in 2019 she was the charter yacht of choice for footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and his family. Follow in the footsteps of Ronaldo by experiencing this special yacht for yourself.

Africa I is packed full of endless details, with every aspect of her design tailored towards delivering the perfect charter. Guests will be in good hands with her experienced crew of 12, who are dedicated to creating special charter memories for their guests. Africa I is an especially popular choice for families, with numerous family-friendly touches throughout the yacht.

Specifications

• Name: AFRICA I
• Yacht Type: Motor Yacht
• Series, Model, Class: 47M
• Builder: Benetti
• Interior Designer: Francois Zuretti
• Refits: 2021-01-01
• Length Overall: 47 metres
• Beam: 8.8 metres
• Max Draught: 2.8 metres
• Gross Tonnage: 492

Construction

• Year of Build: 2010
• Hull Number: FB 501
• Hull Type: Semi Displacement
• Number of Decks: 3
• Classification: ABS
• MCA Compliant: MCA Compliant:

Performance & Capacities

• Max Speed: 24.2 kn
• Cruising Speed: 16.5 kn
• Fuel Capacity: 60500 litres
• Water Capacity: 15000 litres
• Range: 3500 nm
• Total power: 7294 hp
• Hull: Aluminium
• Superstructure: Aluminium

Accommodation

• Passenger Rooms: 6
• Master Rooms: 1
• Double Rooms: 2
• Twin Rooms: 2
• VIP Rooms: 1

Cruising areas

• All year: Greece , Croatia , Montenegro

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Luxury Yacht Rental in South Africa

Luxury yacht charter guide to south africa.

Adventurous, beautiful and a fabulous spot for your first foot in Africa, South Africa works her charm when it comes to being a wonderful yacht charter destination. Those looking to blend a historical visit with fine wines and the chance to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat will find this sophisticated spot full of possibility. Get a local perspective with a visit to the township of Soweto, brush up on your Nelson Mandela history, and commit to climbing the iconic Table Mountain. Grape lovers will be wooed by the delights of the Cape Winelands, and daring Durban invites you to swim with sharks and sup with cosmopolitan cool.

Reasons to Charter a Yacht in South Africa

Safari splendor.

The roar of a lion, the wonder of an elephant bathing her baby, and the first sight of a long-necked giraffe reaching up to chomp the leaves – South Africa has all the ingredients you need for a first-class safari. A yacht charter to South Africa gifts you the rare opportunity to see the mighty big five in their natural habitat. From the Kruger National Park to the shores of Port Elizabeth, animal lovers will be in their element.

Wonderful Winelands

The Cape Winelands are among the most famous vineyards in the New World. Yacht charter guests who adore branch to bottle adventures should be sure to discover Stellenbosch and the surrounding areas where open cellar doors, award winning wineries, and vine draped hills etch out a casual connoisseur scene. When paired with food fresh from the Garden Route and succulent seafood from the two oceans – South Africa is a fable of feasts.

Bucket List Adventures

Surfing and swimming with sharks in Durban, climbing the tantalizing shoulder of Table Mountain, seeing a lioness make her kill in the wild, and bungee jumping from Bloukrans Bridge - the excitement doesn’t stop with a yacht charter in South Africa. Thanks to the unrivaled change of dramatic landscapes, South Africa boasts a whole catalog of experiences to suit your mood. If adrenaline isn’t your deal, you can piece together itineraries that celebrate history, food, art and scenic hikes instead.

Heart Wrenching History

The home of Nelson Mandela, the heart-break of Apartheid, the trail of tears – South Africa’s history books may be hard to swallow, but they are vital reading for anyone visiting the complex country. Those yacht charter guests who venture to Johannesburg can visit the township of Soweto or head to Langa in Cape Town. Getting up close and personal with the locals gifts you a chance to truly understand the past, present and future of this fascinating place.

Where to Visit in South Africa

From Table Mountain to the botanical gardens, the allure of the Lions Head, and the thriving neighborhoods – Cape Town is a collision of urban sophistication, natural wonders, and cultural cool. Active yacht charter guests can learn to surf, go biking and hiking in the hills, and even paraglide and abseil off the top of the mountain. Those who prefer a softer approach to a city break – can choose to explore the chic restaurant scene or head up to the heady winelands and epic sprawling estates scattered across the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Port Elizabeth

Sunshine and surf is certainly on the menu at the mesmerizing Port Elizabeth. A firm favorite with the South African yacht charter crowd, Port Elizabeth is summer encapsulated. Go snorkeling off the coast in the marine life rich waters around St Croix Island Reserve, plunge into the warm arms of the Indian ocean at the Blue Flag Kings Beach, ride horses along the sands of Sardinia Bay, and watch bottle nosed dolphins spin and play from the deck of your yacht charter. Those seeking safari delights will find Port Elizabeth has the answer- the Eastern Cape has some sublime nature reserves like Lalibela where you can see zebras, lions, buffalo, giraffe, cheetahs, and more.

Cool flora clad Knysna is one of the jewels in the flower crown of the Garden Route. If you only get to pick one stop inside the green belt of South Africa, then yacht charter guests should be sure to opt for Knysna. Expect dark deep forests, soft lagoons, and wonderful woodwork boutiques that make the most of the natural abundance of bark to be found in the area. Along with stocking up on artisanal pieces, you can also indulge in farm fresh goodies, and spend sultry summer eves in good company with locally brewed craft beers.

The third largest city in South Africa, as a yacht charter destination Durban has plenty to offer. Surfers across the world will talk of the beautiful rollers that bless the south coast of Addington Beach. Those looking to get up close and personal with Jaws can opt for the popular shark tours that leave from the bay, and history lovers can head out to cover some of the Freedom Trail as they tackle the Inanda Heritage Trail.

When to Charter a Yacht in South Africa

A year-round yacht charter destination, South Africa is all sun, sea and safari. Of course, those looking for the finest weather on the Cape will find that the months of November and February are best for beach lounging. May to September will also strike a chord in safari goers looking to have a higher chance of witnessing the wide plains and the big game.

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Cost of Owning & Buying a Yacht in South Africa (2023 Examples)

In South Africa, yacht prices can vary greatly, with the lowest-priced boats starting at $6,800 and reaching up to $18,000,000 for the most luxurious, opulent superyachts and megayachts. The average overall yacht value in the country is around $446,000. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with owning and buying a yacht in South Africa, along with examples.

A used 30-foot sailing yacht in good condition costs around $20,000 to $30,000, and ownership costs are around $30,000 to $60,000 per year. A new 40-foot motor yacht with basic amenities costs around $300,000 to $400,000, with a cost of ownership of around $60,000 to $140,000 per year.

A new 60-foot luxury yacht with high-end amenities costs around $1.5 million to $2 million, and the cost of owning this yacht in South Africa ranges from around $250,000 to $500,000 per year. You'll get our breakdown of the costs below.

• Financing options include specialized marine finance companies, bank financing, and financing options through yacht dealerships.
• If you consider second-hand yachts, you may have to research the yacht's history and maintenance records, and seek professional advice during the buying process.
• Popular yacht brands in South Africa include Leopard Catamarans, Beneteau Yachts, and Sunseeker Yachts.

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Cost of buying a yacht, ongoing costs of owning a yacht, financing options for yachts, second-hand yachts, yacht brands in south africa.

In this section, we'll discuss the initial purchase price, importation costs, and value-added tax when you buy a yacht in South Africa, which has a rich maritime history and is home to some of the world's most beautiful and diverse coastlines. From the rugged Atlantic coast to the warm Indian Ocean, South Africa offers a unique and stunning yachting experience that is hard to beat.

One interesting fact about buying and owning a yacht in South Africa is that the country has a well-developed yachting industry, with many marinas, yacht clubs, and service providers available to cater to yacht owners' needs. The country also hosts several world-class yachting events, such as the Cape2Rio yacht race , which attracts yachts from around the world.

Lastly, owning a yacht in South Africa can provide access to some of the world's best wildlife and nature reserves, such as the Kruger National Park, the Garden Route, and the Cape Winelands . Yacht owners can combine their love for yachting with exploring and experiencing the country's diverse and beautiful landscapes

Initial purchase price

This will vary greatly depending on factors such as the size, age, brand, and location of the yacht. Here's a table estimating the purchase prices for different yacht sizes and whether they're new or used.

Importation costs

If you're planning on purchasing a yacht from outside South Africa, you'll need to consider the importation costs. This includes shipping, insurance, and any applicable duties or fees . Shipping costs will depend on the distance and mode of transportation, while insurance will be based on the yacht's value and the route it will travel. You should also check South Africa's import duty rates and calculate any potential fees you may incur.

Value Added Tax

All yachts imported into South Africa are subject to VAT, which is currently set at 15% of the value of the yacht . This tax is payable at the time of importation. This tax applies to both the purchase price and any importation costs, including shipping and insurance fees. To calculate the total cost of buying a yacht, you'll need to add the VAT to the initial purchase price and importation expenses.

Luxury yachts may cost $1 to $50 million to buy and its annual maintenance cost can range from $142,000 to $2,140,000.

When you own a yacht in South Africa, there are several recurring expenses to keep in mind. We will cover four main categories: maintenance and repairs, insurance, berthing or mooring fees, and fuel . It's essential to have a realistic idea of these costs to fully enjoy your yacht ownership experience.

Maintenance and repairs

Taking care of your yacht is crucial for keeping it in the best possible condition. Regular maintenance and repairs include tasks like cleaning, painting, fixing sails, or servicing engines . On average, you can expect to spend roughly 5% to 10% of the purchase price on maintenance and repairs.

Yacht insurance is another essential ongoing cost to protect your investment. Depending on factors like the size and value of your yacht, the navigation area, and the type of coverage, insurance premiums can vary significantly. In general, yacht insurance costs around 1% to 3% of the purchase price .

Berthing or mooring fees

Where you store your yacht when it's not in use also adds to the ownership costs. Berthing or mooring fees can differ based on the size of your yacht, the location, and the facilities offered at the marina. In South Africa, expect to pay between $500 to $2,000 per month for a berth. Generally, the more popular or upmarket the marina, the higher the fees.

Lastly, fuel is a significant ongoing cost, particularly for motor yachts. While sailing yachts consume less fuel, they still need some for maneuvering and powering their onboard systems. The price of fuel can fluctuate , making this expense somewhat unpredictable. Consider monitoring fuel prices in your area and devising a strategic plan to manage your consumption.

Additional costs of ownership

Additionally, there may be other costs associated with owning a yacht in South Africa, such as taxes, licenses, and crew expenses.

Taxes : Several taxes may apply to yacht ownership, such as value-added tax (VAT), import duties, and annual property taxes . We've already mentioned the VAT rate and import duty rates. Annual property taxes can vary depending on the location and value of the yacht, but typically range from around $500 to $2,000 per year.

Licenses : Yacht owners in South Africa are required to have certain licenses and certifications, such as a skipper's license, a radio license, and a safety certificate .

Crew expenses : If you plan to hire a crew to operate and maintain your yacht, there will be additional expenses to consider, such as salaries, benefits, and training costs . The cost of hiring a crew can vary widely depending on the size and type of yacht, the number of crew members required, as well as their experience level and qualifications required.

One popular option for yacht financing is working with a specialized marine finance company , such as Cullinan Holdings. They are well-versed in yacht financing and can guide you through the process.

Another route is bank financing . Many banks offer financing for yachts , and if you have an existing relationship with a financial institution, it might be easier to secure a loan. However, it's essential to compare interest rates, repayment terms, and other factors, as these can vary between banks. Keep in mind that lenders may require a down payment, which is typically around 20% of the yacht's purchase price.

Additionally, you can explore financing options through yacht dealerships . These dealers often work in partnership with various lending institutions, simplifying the application process. Check if the dealership offers promotional rates or special incentives that might make owning a yacht more affordable for you.

When comparing financing options, consider factors like the interest rate, loan term (which can reach up to 20 years), and other associated fees . Keep your budget and financial goals in mind while evaluating your options to find the best fit for your situation.

If you consider purchasing a second-hand yacht, it can be a more economical option that still provides the luxury and enjoyment of a brand-new vessel.

Firstly, it's essential to thoroughly research the yacht's history and maintenance records . This will give you a better understanding of the vessel's condition, any potential issues, and how well it has been cared for over the years. A well-maintained yacht can still offer exceptional performance and comfort, even if it's not brand new.

As you examine potential second-hand yachts, take note of any upgrades that have been made or might be necessary in the near future. Some yachts may have had recent updates to their systems or components, which can be a valuable selling point. On the other hand, if a yacht requires significant upgrades, this can impact the overall cost and your enjoyment of the vessel.

Don't forget to seek professional advice during the buying process . Engaging with an experienced yacht broker can make the process smoother and provide valuable insights. Their knowledge of the market and local conditions in South Africa can help you find the perfect second-hand yacht that suits your needs and budget.

Finally, when you're ready to make an offer on a yacht, it's crucial to have it professionally surveyed . This will provide a detailed inspection of the vessel's condition, from its hull to its mechanical systems, ensuring you're making an informed decision.

The cost to buy a yacht in Egypt can range from $31,900 to $6,380,000.

Leopard Catamarans are known for their reliability, sleek design, and high-quality performance. With a variety of models and sizes to choose from, there's something for everyone. For instance, you can find a 40-foot Leopard Catamaran for sale in South Africa within a price range of around $400,000 to $600,000.

Beneteau Yachts is another popular brand, offering both sailing and motor yachts that are perfect for South African waters. The Beneteau Oceanis range, which comprises comfortable cruising sailboats, can also be found in the South African yacht listings. Prices may vary depending on age and model, but you can expect to spend between $150,000 and $500,000 on a Beneteau yacht.

For luxury motor yacht enthusiasts, Sunseeker Yachts creates stylish and sophisticated vessels with cutting-edge technology and design. A Sunseeker for sale in South Africa could cost anywhere from $1 million to over $10 million, depending on the model and year.

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Boat & Catamaran charter in South Africa - Yacht Rental

South africa yacht rental.

South Africa, with its dramatic coastal landscapes, marine biodiversity, and cultural richness, beckons sailors from all corners of the globe. At Yachting.Rent, we’re your trusted partner in unveiling the maritime gems of this vibrant land, from the Atlantic-kissed Cape Town shores to the subtropical wonders of Durban.

Venture into South Africa’s waters with our diverse fleet of yachts, each tailored to provide a luxurious and unforgettable voyage. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Western Cape, with the iconic Table Mountain as your backdrop, or the dolphin-rich waters of the Eastern Cape, our yachts ensure an immersive experience. Sail past the historic Robben Island, drop anchor in the secluded bays of the Garden Route, or indulge in world-class diving spots along the Wild Coast – each moment is crafted to resonate with the pulse of this magnificent land.

Beyond the natural allure, South Africa’s ports promise a confluence of cultures. Moor in cosmopolitan Cape Town and experience its rich blend of heritage, from the Malay Quarter’s colorful homes to the bustling V&A Waterfront. Or dock in Durban and let the Indian-influenced culinary delights tantalize your palate. With Yachting.Rent, it’s not just about sailing; it’s about connecting with a land’s soul.

Our commitment at Yachting.Rent is not only to provide unparalleled luxury but also to ensure a seamless and safe voyage. Our crew, seasoned in navigating South Africa’s diverse maritime conditions, from the chilly Benguela Current to the warm Agulhas Current, guarantees a journey where wonderment is matched with well-being.

Join us, and let Yachting.Rent be your compass in South Africa. Here, every horizon tells a tale, every breeze carries a song, and every voyage becomes a story for the ages. Your South African nautical dream begins here.

Daniel Goldman

CEO of Yachting.Rent

Boat & Catamaran charter in South Africa

Bali 4.5 – 4 + 2 cab. – Adria Chicha – 2017

Lagoon 450 F – 4 + 2 cab. – Shiva – 2018

Lagoon 42 – 4 + 2 cab. – Hanselli – 2024

Lagoon 42 – 4 + 1 cab. – pirelli – 2024.

Saxdor 320 GTC – Olivia – 2022

Saxdor 320 gto – kali – 2022.

Why Choose Us

Yacht charter in South Africa

Embark on a unique maritime adventure with Yachting.Rent, your dedicated partner for yacht charters in the vibrant and diverse waters of South Africa. As you set sail, be prepared to have your senses awakened by the breathtaking fusion of landscapes, cultures, and marine wonders that this incredible country offers.

Our curated fleet of yachts is meticulously maintained and equipped with the latest amenities to ensure an unparalleled sailing experience. Whether you’re planning a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Garden Route, seeking the exhilarating thrill of navigating the Cape of Good Hope, or wanting to explore the serene anchorages of KwaZulu-Natal’s coast, our range of vessels is designed to cater to every nautical desire.

But what truly distinguishes our charter service is our profound understanding of South Africa’s maritime heritage. Each yacht journey with Yachting.Rent promises not just a voyage, but an intimate connection with South Africa’s heart. Drop anchor and plunge into the azure waters of Plettenberg Bay, watch the majestic Southern Right Whales off Hermanus, or immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of cultures as you dock in vibrant cities like Cape Town or Durban.

Safety and luxury go hand in hand with Yachting.Rent. Our seasoned crew, well-versed with South Africa’s unique maritime conditions, ensures that your journey is as smooth as it is memorable. Moreover, our team on land is always ready to assist, whether you need itinerary suggestions, gourmet catering on board, or exclusive experiences tailored to your interests.

With Yachting.Rent, your South African yacht charter becomes more than a voyage; it’s a symphony of experiences, harmonizing the wild beauty of the African coast with the sophistication of modern luxury yachting. Choose us, and let your South African sailing story unfold in style and elegance.

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About South Africa 

Why is South Africa a good sailing destination?

At Yachting.Rent, we believe that some destinations beckon with more than just scenic allure; they resonate with stories, cultures, and an innate spirit of adventure. South Africa, a land where two mighty oceans meet, epitomizes such a call, and here’s why it stands out as a premier sailing destination.

South Africa’s coastline, stretching over 2,500 kilometers, is a mesmerizing blend of diverse landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of the Cape Peninsula to the subtropical shores of KwaZulu-Natal, each nautical mile promises a distinct experience. Sailors are treated to the sight of the iconic Table Mountain rising majestically over Cape Town, only to be later enchanted by the serene beaches of Jeffrey’s Bay, a surfer’s paradise. The Garden Route, with its secluded lagoons and verdant forests, is a testament to nature’s grandeur, offering breathtaking anchorages that few places on Earth can rival.

But the allure of South Africa isn’t limited to its natural wonders. This is a land steeped in history and rich in cultural diversity. As you navigate its shores, you’re not just sailing past landscapes, but timelines—echoes of ancient Khoisan heritage, tales of maritime explorers, and legacies of vibrant communities like the Cape Malays. Ports like Durban offer a fusion of African, European, and Indian influences, making every dock a gateway to culinary delights and cultural exploration.

Yet, what truly elevates South Africa as a sailing haven is its marine biodiversity. The confluence of the cold Benguela Current and the warm Agulhas Current creates a unique marine ecosystem. Dolphins, seals, penguins, and a myriad of seabirds accompany sailors on their voyages. And, in certain seasons, the majestic sight of Southern Right Whales breaching near the boat is nothing short of magic.

Yachting.Rent recognizes the essence of South Africa—the pulse that makes it more than just a destination. It’s an experience, a journey into the heart of a land that celebrates its contrasts. From exhilarating sailing conditions that challenge the seasoned sailor to tranquil bays perfect for the leisure seeker, South Africa has it all. Let us guide you to its wonders, where every sail unfurls a new story.

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What Choose

Sailing boat or Catamaran, what to sail in South Africa

South Africa, with its expansive coastline marked by diverse landscapes and dynamic marine conditions, raises a perennial question for mariners: Should you opt for a sailing boat or a catamaran? At Yachting.Rent, we’re here to guide you through this decision, ensuring your South African sailing experience is not only memorable but tailored to your every desire.

The traditional sailing boat, with its deep connection to the maritime world, offers an undeniably authentic sailing experience. Its design, marked by a single hull, allows for closer encounters with South Africa’s coastal wonders. Imagine cutting through the waters with the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain, or navigating the intricate bays of the Garden Route with precision. The sailing boat’s intimate and responsive nature ensures sailors truly feel each wave and gust, perfect for those who cherish a visceral bond with the ocean.

However, the catamaran presents a compelling case for those venturing into South African waters. With its twin hulls, stability is the hallmark. This design ensures a smoother journey, especially when faced with the region’s diverse maritime conditions, from the chilly embrace of the Benguela Current to the warmer caresses of the Agulhas Current. The expansive deck of a catamaran becomes a floating platform for sunbathing, stargazing, or simply relishing panoramic views, be it the bustling harbor of Cape Town or the serene seascapes of KwaZulu-Natal. With its roomier interiors and shallower draft, catamarans also offer unparalleled access to secluded beaches and coves, making them ideal for families or groups seeking both comfort and adventure.

Whichever vessel you lean towards, Yachting.Rent is committed to ensuring your journey is characterized by luxury, safety, and expert guidance. Our fleet, whether sailing boats or catamarans, is maintained to the highest standards. And with our seasoned crew’s knowledge of South Africa’s maritime intricacies, your voyage promises to be as seamless as it is exhilarating.

So, as you stand on the cusp of your South African sailing adventure, let Yachting.Rent guide your choice. Be it the classic allure of a sailing boat or the contemporary charm of a catamaran, South Africa’s waters await your exploration, and the tales of your voyage are waiting to be written.

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For aspiring yacht owners looking for a luxury yachts, we have put together a fine selection of luxury explorer yachts, motor yachts, used yachts, sailing yachts, trawler yachts, classic yachts, boats and yachts for sale from all over the world. Search Yachts for Sale collection of superyachts for sale and filter by type, length, asking price or age. Narrow the results by selecting specific features, or browse by speed, designer and much more.

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Used yachts for sale near you in South Africa and across world. Find your ideal boats, compare prices and more. Get an email alert for new ads matching your search. Buying a boats has never been so easy!

When looking for new, pre-owned, and used used yachts for sale in South Africa, the amount of time it takes to narrow down exactly what you want can some times be intimidating. With so many manufacturers, models, and boats types, how do you begin to find the right yacht that meets your budget and your needs?

 Yachts for Sales is the one-stop professional yacht brokerage that can navigate you through the frustrations and help you make the best decision possible when it comes to the purchase of your next boats. We can help you find the yacht for sale, set up the showings, help negotiate pricing, handle the yacht closing and everything else involved, and we do all of this so you are able simply sit back and to enjoy the process. Buying a yacht requires a significant investment and it is our goal to provide you with detailed information and professional guidance.

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The shepherd of the sea guiding small boats home to safety in South Africa

In the isolated village of Hondeklip Bay, Patrick Rulph is the lone voice on the radio bringing fishers back to shore.

Hondeklip Bay, South Africa – Before day breaks on a cloudy morning in Hondeklip Bay, a small fishing village in South Africa’s semi-arid Namaqualand region, Patrick Rulph rushes out of his front door in track pants, a loose-fitting hoodie and a dark cap.

The 61-year-old moves with urgency as he makes his way down the 200-metre-long dirt road to the beach, hoping to catch the fishers before they head to sea.

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“They don’t go to sea at set times, and I want to see exactly how many fishers are out,” says Rulph, with a knowing smile that reflects the pride he takes in his work monitoring and guiding the small boats that go out to sea.

On the shore, bags holding fishing gear and lunches sit at the high watermark on the sand. The fishers try and warm themselves in pockets of defiant sunlight while their fellow crew members arrive one by one.

Ruins of the old fish canning factory and the remains of a jetty that was destroyed by a storm years ago are evidence of a once-booming fishing industry that employed nearly anyone in the village.

Across the road from the ruins, five orange-coloured boats lie in front of a two-storey, weather-worn building, with a sign that reads: “Hondeklip Bay Small Vessel Safety Monitoring Center”, or VMS, where Rulph spends most of his days.

The VMS has two rooms: a first-floor office that contains the monitoring and communication equipment he uses and a small room on the ground floor, which houses orange electronic devices called locators that help track vessels out at sea. Rulph grabs a few locators from the room and hurries back down to the various fishing crews on the beach, handing them out and making meticulous notes in a pocketbook he carries with him.

He makes sure all the boats that leave in the morning return, and when necessary, he guides them home using the Small Vessel Monitoring System, which uses mapping software to track the locators.

As the only person working at the safety centre, Rulph has become indispensable to the small-scale fishers of Hondeklip Bay. Even after a loss of funding meant he stopped being paid to do the job this year, he has continued out of a strong sense of duty to the community.

At the shore, the crews of two or three men assemble, before rowing out to their anchored ski-boats on worn but sound dinghies. After boarding, they fire up their outboard motors and make their way out to sea, skipping on the incoming waves as they leave the harbour mouth one by one.

Hondeklip Bay has a population of about 540 people, according to the latest census in 2022. Rulph estimates that the size of the community is much larger, based on information he has seen at the local clinic, but he maintains that the community remains very close-knit.

Gainful employment is hard to come by. While some residents work for companies that reprocess overburden from diamond mines, most others work for low-paying municipal projects.

Daniel Ruyter, one of the members of the Hondeklip Bay Small-Scale Fishing Cooperative, says that despite only having 27 members, the co-op provides some form of income to 90-100 people. At the height of the annual snoek fishing season, over the Easter period, travelling fishers from all over the Western Cape visit Hondeklip Bay “chasing the snoek”. During their stay, they rent accommodation from community members and many more are given odd jobs such as cleaning fish.

Hondeklip Bay

Hondeklip Bay was established in the mid-1800s to transport copper ore by sea from its natural harbour to other towns in the Northern Cape. Rulph’s grandparents moved there in the early 1900s to work in the commercial fishing industry. His father was a fisherman and his mother worked in the Namaqua Canning Company’s fish factory.

When Rulph grew up during apartheid, he was classified as “coloured”. The racial discrimination was hard to miss, he recalls. While white residents had electricity and piped water in their homes, non-white residents could only collect drinking water from a reservoir in the village on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they could only access brackish water.

“My friends and I saw it as a chance to earn pocket money. We delivered buckets of water for our neighbours, and they would give us a few cents that we would use to buy sweets and chocolates,” he laughs.

Conditions improved after Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress was voted into power in 1994, with piped water as well as electricity reaching all residents by 1996. Yet, 30 years later, Hondeklip Bay still has no grocery store, petrol station or high school, and the village remains accessible by gravel roads that stretch through past decommissioned diamond mines for tens of kilometres.

Rulph decided to quit high school when he was 16 to start working. After spending one season at the same canning factory as his mother, he began working for diamond companies, first De Beers and then the Trans Hex Group, when he was retrenched after 20 years. Due to the decline in the diamond industry and the collapse of the commercial fishing industry at home, he sought employment in Cape Town but returned after two years.

Fortunately, the Hondeklip Bay VMS and the monitoring system were donated to the village by the Namaqua District Municipality in 2014 and a post was advertised. Rulph got the job.

In the VMS office, which looks out over the ruins of the canning factory, he has a portable short-range radio, a fixed long-range radio, and two screens on which he can see satellite images of as much of the coastline as he wants to see along with the locations of each of the boats carrying the orange devices.

On days when the coastline is covered in dense fog, Rulph has to keep his eyes on his screens, making sure that all the boats are together. At the start, it was very stressful, as the fog tends to interfere with the satellite imagery, but he has since learned to deal with the quirks of the system.

Rulph recalls one very misty day that could have ended in a disaster. An old fisher went to sea with a young crew member, and when they decided to head home, it was so misty that they ended up arguing about where they were. The young crew member won the argument and thinking they were north of Hondeklip Bay, they headed south. After a while, the old fisher recognised a set of rocks along the shore and realised that they had gone too far south. They had nearly run out of fuel so they headed out into water that was deep enough for them to safely drop anchor and waited for the fog to clear.

Meanwhile, the other fishers that were out with them assuming they had made it home safely were surprised to find them not there. Members of the community built a huge bonfire on the beach hoping that the fishers would see the light from the sea and find their way home.

“I contacted the police and sent two boats with tracking devices out to go and look for them. When the mist cleared at about 11:30pm the old fisher saw that the boats were looking for them, but they didn’t have any way of drawing attention to themselves,” said Rulph.

When the “lost” fishers saw that the rescue boats were heading back home, they decided to row back to Hondeklip Bay.

“They reached the harbour mouth at about 4:30am, they fired up the motor and made it safely to shore. The community was still on the beach when they returned,” says Rulph, with a sense of delayed relief that the worst outcome was avoided.

Reflecting on that situation, Rulph says: “I realised that when the fishers are all at sea together, if a boat leaves, they just assume that it made it safely home, but that isn’t always the case. For that reason, I make sure that I know exactly how many boats go out every morning.”

‘We are making do’

In the decade that Rulph has worked at the safety centre, there have been no instances of fishers drowning at sea in Hondeklip Bay, a statistic he is simultaneously thankful for and proud of.

The Namakwa District Municipality paid Rulph’s salary through an annually renewed contract. But in 2024, his contract was not renewed because of a lack of funds. There is some talk of third parties attempting to secure funding for his position, but there are no concrete plans as yet, he says.

At home, Rulph is the sole breadwinner in his household. His wife and two daughters depend on his state pension. Yet, with the optimism that reveals a deep acknowledgement of the resourcefulness of his community, he says: “We aren’t hungry, we aren’t cold. We are making do.”

And even without a salary, over the last few months, he has continued to perform the role he was once paid to do, in service of the community he has been a part of for six decades.

“Patrick’s work is important. He does it well. We don’t have to ask him to do it, or look for him, he’s always ready,” says Daniel Ruyter, who has known Rulph nearly all his life and has been his friend for decades.

Ruyter has been fishing for over 50 years and knows the surrounding coastline better than almost anyone. Yet he says that even he has been in situations where, due to the thick fog, he got lost while trying to make his way home, instead ending up in a different bay.

“We don’t all have GPS systems. And without the radios, our only means of communication from the sea is our mobile phones. If something out there happens you have to hope that you can access the network,” he said.

Indicating the value of Rulph’s dependability and the value of his work, Ruyter says: “Now we have radios, and we know that if we need help, Patrick will be ready to help us.”

Rulph’s service-oriented approach extends beyond just his profession, and his neighbours say it’s something that comes naturally to him. Ruyter says that when catches are good during the snoek season, Rulph goes around to the fishers asking them to donate some fish to poorer families in the community, before distributing the donations himself.

It’s the same compassion to help those in need that guides his tireless unpaid work at the VMS.

“I understand the risks and the dangers of going to sea,” Rulph says in a lowered voice that conveys the seriousness with which he views his work. “Tomorrow someone could drown just because they didn’t have a locator and there was no one to guide them in. It would be a life that could have been saved.”

Fishing is the only gainful employment in the village, he says, and there are no other vocational opportunities for young men other than to become fishermen.

“My son is also a fisherman. Just as I care about my son, there are other parents that feel the same way about their children,” Rulph adds.

For as long as he is able, he is committed to continuing to shepherd Hondeklip Bay’s fishers home, making sure none get left behind.

“I believe if I bless others, then I will be blessed as well,” he says with a satisfied smile.

Reporting for this story was supported by the Pulitzer Center.

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Lynch Yacht Sinking Off Sicily Proves as Baffling as It Is Tragic

As bodies were recovered, the authorities and experts wondered how a $40 million, stable and secure vessel could have sunk so quickly.

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By Emma Bubola and Michael J. de la Merced

Emma Bubola reported from Porticello, Italy, and Michael J. de la Merced from London.

Two months after being cleared in a bruising legal battle over fraud charges, the British tech mogul Mike Lynch celebrated his freedom with a cruise. He invited his family, friends and part of his legal team on board his luxury sailing yacht, a majestic 180-foot vessel named Bayesian after the mathematical theorem around which he had built his empire.

On Sunday night, after a tour of the Gulf of Naples, including Capri, and volcanic islands in the Eolian archipelago, the boat anchored half a mile off the Sicilian coast in Porticello, Italy. It chose a stretch of water favored by the Phoenicians thousands of years ago for its protection from the mistral wind and, in more recent times, by the yachts of tech billionaires. The boat was lit “like a Christmas tree,” local residents said, standing out against the full moon.

But about 4 a.m., calamity unfolded. A violent and fast storm hit the area with some of the strongest winds locals said they had ever felt. Fabio Cefalù, a fisherman, said he saw a flare pierce the darkness shortly after 4.

Minutes later, the yacht was underwater. Only dozens of cushions from the boat’s deck and a gigantic radar from its mast floated on the surface of the sea, fishermen said.

In all, 22 people were on board, 15 of whom were rescued. Six bodies — five passengers and the ship’s cook — had been recovered by Thursday afternoon, including that of Mr. Lynch, an Italian government official said, adding that the search was continuing for his daughter.

It was a tragic and mystifying turn of events for Mr. Lynch, 59, who had spent years seeking to clear his name and was finally inaugurating a new chapter in his life. Experts wondered how a $40 million yacht, so robust and stable could have been sunk by a storm near a port within minutes.

“It drives me insane,” said Giovanni Costantino, the chief executive of the Italian Sea Group, which in 2022 bought the company, Perini, that made the Bayesian. “Following all the proper procedures, that boat is unsinkable.”

The aura of misfortune only deepened when it emerged that Stephen Chamberlain, 52, a former vice president of finance for Mr. Lynch’s former company and a co-defendant in the fraud case, was killed two days earlier, when he was hit by a car while jogging near his house in England.

Since June, the two men had been in a jubilant mood. A jury in San Francisco had acquitted both on fraud charges that could have sent them to prison for two decades. There were hugs and tears, and they and their legal teams went for a celebratory dinner party at a restaurant in the city, said Gary S. Lincenberg, a lawyer for Mr. Chamberlain.

The sea excursion was meant as a thank-you by Mr. Lynch to those who had helped him in his legal travails. Among the guests was Christopher J. Morvillo, 59, a scion of a prominent New York family of lawyers who had represented Mr. Lynch for 12 years. He and his wife, Neda, 57, were among the missing.

So, too, was Jonathan Bloomer, 70, a veteran British insurance executive who chaired Morgan Stanley International and the insurer Hiscox.

The body of the ship’s cook, Recaldo Thomas, was recovered. All the other crew members survived. Among them was Leo Eppel, 19, of South Africa, who was on his first yacht voyage working as a deck steward, said a friend, who asked not to be identified.

Since the sinking, the recovery effort and investigation have turned the tiny port town of Porticello, a quiet enclave where older men sit bare-chested on balconies, into what feels like the set of a movie.

Helicopters have flown overhead. Ambulances have sped by with the sirens blaring. The Coast Guard has patrolled the waters off shore, within sight of a cordoned-off dock that had been turned into an emergency headquarters.

On Wednesday afternoon, a church bell tolled after the first body bag was loaded into an ambulance, a crowd watching in silence.

The survivors were sheltering in a sprawling resort near Porticello, with a view of the shipwreck spot, and had so far declined to comment.

Attilio Di Diodato, director of the Italian Air Force’s Center for Aerospace Meteorology and Climatology, said that the yacht had most likely been hit by a fierce “down burst” — when air generated within a thunderstorm descends rapidly — or by a waterspout , similar to a tornado over water.

He added that his agency had put out rough-sea warnings the previous evening, alerting sailors about storms and strong winds. Locals said the winds “felt like an earthquake.”

Mr. Costantino, the boat executive, said the yacht had been specifically designed for having a tall mast — the second-tallest aluminum mast in the world. He said the Bayesian was an extremely safe and secure boat that could list even to 75 degrees without capsizing.

But he said that if some of the hatches on the side and in the stern, or some of the deck doors, had been open, the boat could have taken on water and sunk. Standard procedure in such storms, he said, is to switch on the engine, lift the anchor and turn the boat into the wind, lowering the keel for extra stability, closing doors and gathering the guests in the main hall inside the deck.

12 guests occupied the yacht’s six cabins. There were also 10 crew members.

Open hatches, doors and cabin windows could have let in water during a storm, according to the manufacturer.

Open hatches, doors and

cabin windows could

have let in water

during a storm,

according to the

manufacturer.

Source: Superyacht Times, YachtCharterFleet, MarineTraffic

By Veronica Penney

The New York Times attempted to reach the captain, James Cutfield, who had survived, for comment through social media, his brother and the management company of the yacht (which did not hire the crew), but did not make contact.

So far none of the surviving crew members have made a public statement about what happened that night.

Fabio Genco, the director of Palermo’s emergency services, who treated some of the survivors, said that the victims had recounted feeling as if the boat was being lifted, then suddenly dropped, with objects from the cabins falling on them.

The Italian Coast Guard said it had deployed a remotely operated vehicle that can prowl underwater for up to seven hours at a depth of more than 980 feet and record videos and images that they hoped would help them reconstruct the dynamics of the sinking. Such devices were used during the search and rescue operations of the Titan vessel that is believed to have imploded last summer near the wreckage of the Titanic.

After rescuers broke inside the yacht, they struggled to navigate the ropes and many pieces of furniture cluttering the vessel, said Luca Cari, a spokesman for Italy’s national firefighter corps.

Finally, as of Thursday morning, they had managed to retrieve all but one of the missing bodies, and hopes of finding the missing person alive were thin. “Can a human being be underwater for two days?” Mr. Cari asked.

What was certain was that Mr. Lynch’s death was yet another cruel twist of fate for a man who had spent years seeking to clear his name.

He earned a fortune in technology and was nicknamed Britain’s Bill Gates. But for more than a decade, he had been treated as anything but a respected tech leader.

He was accused by Hewlett-Packard, the American technological pioneer that had bought his software company, Autonomy, for $11 billion, of misleading it about his company’s worth. (Hewlett-Packard wrote down the value of the transaction by about $8.8 billion, and critics called it one of the worst deals of all time .) He had been increasingly shunned by the British establishment that he sought to break into after growing up working-class outside London.

He was extradited to San Francisco to face criminal charges, and confined to house arrest and 24-hour surveillance on his dime. In a townhouse in the Pacific Heights neighborhood — with security people he jokingly told associates were his “roommates” — he spent his mornings talking with researchers whom he funded personally on new applications for artificial intelligence. Afterward, he devoted hours to discussing legal strategy with his team.

Despite his persistent claims of innocence, even those close to Mr. Lynch had believed his odds of victory were slim. Autonomy’s chief financial officer, Sushovan Hussain, was convicted in 2018 of similar fraud charges and spent five years in prison.

During Mr. Lynch’s house arrest, his brother and mother died. His wife, Angela Bacares, frequently flew over from England, and she became a constant presence in the San Francisco courtroom during the trial.

After he was finally acquitted, Mr. Lynch had his eye on the future. “I am looking forward to returning to the U.K. and getting back to what I love most: my family and innovating in my field,” he said.

Elisabetta Povoledo contributed reporting from Pallanza, Italy.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in Rome. More about Emma Bubola

Michael J. de la Merced has covered global business and finance news for The Times since 2006. More about Michael J. de la Merced

At least 24 killed as Congolese boat overturns

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China, Philippines clash in South China Sea despite efforts to rebuild trust

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At least 13 people have died after a boat carrying migrants sunk off Yemen's coast, UN says

The U.N. migration agency says a boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Yemen, leaving more than two dozen people dead or missing

CAIRO — A boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Yemen, leaving more than two dozen people dead or missing, the U.N. migration agency said Sunday, the latest in a string of shipwrecks that have left scores dead.

Despite a nearly decade-long civil war , Yemen — which borders Saudi Arabia to the north and Oman to the northeast — remains a major route for migrants from East Africa trying to reach wealthy Gulf countries for work.

The vessel was carrying 25 Ethiopian migrants and the boat captain and his assistant, both Yemeni, when it capsized Tuesday off the province of Taiz, the International Organization for Migration said in a statement. The bodies of 11 men and two women were recovered along the shore of Bab el-Mandeb Strait that links the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea, while the 14 others — including the two Yemenis — remain missing.

The migrants departed from Djibouti, IOM said.

“This latest tragedy is a stark reminder of the perils faced by migrants on this route,” said Matt Huber, IOM’s acting chief in Yemen. “Every life lost in these dangerous waters is one too many, and it is imperative that we do not normalize these devastating losses.”

According to the agency, the number of migrants arriving in Yemen has tripled in recent years, from about 27,000 in 2021 to more than 97,200 last year, the IOM said, and about 380,000 migrants are currently in the conflict-ridden country.

To reach Yemen, migrants are taken by smugglers on often dangerous, overcrowded boats across the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden. Over the past decade, at least 2,082 migrants disappeared along the route, including 693 who drowned, the IOM said.

In June, at least 49 migrants were killed in a shipwreck off Yemen’s southern coast that also left 140 missing, according to the IOM. Another 62 migrants died in two separate shipwrecks off the coast of Djibouti in April as they tried to reach Yemen.