First Impression: Whisper

Whisper launched in May 2003 from the venerable Holland Jachtbouw shipyard in the Netherlands, and I first stepped onboard in October of that same year, at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. What a classic incarnation of a true gentleman’s yacht. This boat oozes woodwork so rich, so old-money country club, that I almost felt the need to light up a Cuban cigar. And I don’t even smoke.

I was onboard for a cocktail party, as a guest of Churchill Yacht Partners (www.churchillyachts.com), so I didn’t get a very good chance to chat with the crew. They were running around like mad serving drinks and hors d’oeuvres. I can’t speak to the kind of service they provide during a weeklong charter, but I can say that the nibbles I tasted were quite scrumptious, and that every time I did see a crew member, he or she remembered what I was drinking and politely offered me another before I even had to ask. A very good sign of more good service to come.

This 116-foot sailing yacht has four guest cabins but only three bathrooms, so the boat advertises for six guests instead of eight. The base rate is $55,000 a week, or about $11,500 per person with 25-percent expenses included.

Given her luscious craftsmanship and elegant styling, I’d say Whisper is worth it if your charter goals include feeling like a Vanderbilt.—Kim Kavin