Guests staying at the St. Regis Maldives are in for a special surprise as the resort has announced the launch of a 20-metre private yacht: Norma. Guests can charter the 20 m luxury vessel for diving experiences, overnight trips, family adventures and romantic getaways and enjoy her four decadent cabins which are equipped with the latest technology and are opulently designed and decorated.
The name Norma was chosen as a tribute to St. Regis Hotels & Resorts long-standing history steeped in maritime, paved by its founder: John Jacob Astor, who purchased the largest private yacht in the world more than 130 years ago. The yacht was named by Mr Astor after the princess Nourmahal, the heroine of Thomas Moore’s poem “Light of the Harem”. In 1910, he replaced it with the yacht Norma as a nickname of Nourmahal, which is known to be the original Norma yacht.
St. Regis continues their dedication to service and hospitality on the high seas with their signature butler service and sunset Champagne sabering ritual. A crew of four including a personal chef are on hand to make the experience memorable.
Norma is an Azimut flybridge 66 yacht with space for up to 8 day guests; the yacht has two decks, four bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, a barbecue, and indoor sound system. Guests never have to sacrifice on comfort even as they explore the Maldivian islands and enjoy the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
The yacht costs 25,000 to charter for one night, or from $14,000 per day, up to eight hours. The overnight stay includes full board meals and is available for up to six guests. Reservations can be made through contacting the resort’s butler service.