First Impression: Polar Star

Date toured: December 2011

The 208-foot Lürssen motoryacht Polar Star was built in 2005 and launched as Northern Star. In 2008 she got a new owner, and that owner completed a large-scale refit in 2011. The work included exterior paint, new engine room systems, engine refits, new interior soft goods, updated guest bathrooms, new furniture, and a new Kaleidescape audiovisual system.

The current owner also hired Capt. Maxx Ainsworth, who previously earned a strong reputation in the charter industry in command of the 201-foot Amels motoryacht Solemar. Ainsworth leads a crew of 17 aboard Polar Star for charter.

Polar Star has a décor that feels like an English cottage. There are a lot of pinks, ivories, and sky-blue tones onboard. Crystal chandeliers and lights dot the main salon, and murals are displayed on some walls. Throughout most of the guest areas, Polar Star feels like a super-sized country cottage.

Twelve guests are accommodated in six staterooms, including a master that is a suite encompassing almost the entire deck above the main deck. This impressive “owner’s deck” includes doors that open onto a private foredeck, his and her bathrooms, and more. Four additional guest cabins are on the main deck, including two with king beds, one with twin beds, and one with twin beds that can convert into a single king. The sixth guest cabin is down a stairway from the main salon, making it a private location that is ideal for children, a nanny, or a supernumerary.

An elevator services all decks on Polar Star, including the bridge deck, which includes a serious onboard gymnasium. It has two treadmills, a Technogym wall, an elliptical machine, a stationary bicycle, and a weight bench with free weights. Each piece of stationary equipment has its own television, iPod connector, and headphone jack.

The sundeck, by comparison, is fully reserved for relaxation. There is tons of room for sunbathing, a bar, a spot for watching movies or singing karaoke, and more. Further relaxation awaits down near the swim platform, where guests can enjoy some time in Polar Star’s sauna.

Polar Star is expected to complete the winter charter season in the Caribbean before moving to the Mediterranean for the summer 2012 charter season. The lowest weekly base rate for 12 guests is €400,000. International Yacht Register is the management company, and any reputable charter broker can help you book a week onboard.—Kim Kavin