First Impression: Lady Joy

Date toured: December 2007

Lady Joy is the newest launch from the semi-custom series of 157-foot yachts by Christensen Shipyards. There are several other Christensen 157s available for charter, including Barchetta and Marathon. All have similar features and layouts, though their interior decors are different.

This particular 157, launched in June 2007, is owned by singer Denise Rich. She has contemporary tastes, so the yacht’s dark mahogany interior is filled with modern artwork that is bright and colorful. Lady Joy’s interior also includes extensive use of the material mother of pearl, especially in the day head.

Unlike the other 157s that are available for charter, Lady Joy’s VIP stateroom on the bottom deck has been split into a guest cabin and an adjacent nanny’s cabin, to accommodate Rich’s grandchildren. That means Lady Joy is the only 157 currently available for charter to 12 guests with seven cabins instead of six. The difference should allow for more flexibility, say if a charter party includes single guests or spouses who prefer to sleep separately.

The rest of the guest cabins, including the main-deck master, all have king-size beds except one double-bed cabin with a Pullman berth.

Rich apparently is into the latest exercise trends, since there is a $12,000 PowerPlate machine on one of the yacht’s outdoor decks. It basically shakes you to help tone your muscles, and it’s available to charter guests.

There is also recording studio equipment onboard, but according to management company Sapphire Seas, that equipment is not available for charter guest use.

The yacht is headed to the Mediterranean this summer, though Rich intends to be onboard during the months of July and August, according to Sapphire Seas. There may be some availability this summer at a weekly base rate of $250,000, but look for easier access (and perhaps a different weekly base rate) through any reputable charter broker next winter in the Caribbean and Bahamas.—Kim Kavin