When considering yachting today, sleek, modern ships with cutting-edge technology may come to mind. However, there is something undeniably enchanting about a yacht that embodies a sense of history—meet Camara C, a classic ‘gentleman’s yacht’ built in 1961.
This stunning 105-foot vessel, constructed by Yarrow & Co in Glasgow, Scotland, is a living reminder of a golden yachting era, where elegance and craftsmanship reigned supreme.
Previously called Maureen Maur, she has long symbolized sophisticated yachting, welcoming royalty, celebrities, and the elite. While her origins date back over sixty years, Camara C has been meticulously maintained and upgraded to combine classic design with contemporary luxuries.
Comfortable cushioning on Camara C’s main and upper decks provides ample seating and sunbathing space.Recently refitted in 2021, she is part of Asia Global Yachting’s Classic line of charter cruisers, active in southern Thailand and Indonesia. Navigating the southern Thai waters, she presents a rare blend of heritage, luxury, and modern amenities.
A Restored Legacy
Camara C’s story begins with GL Watson & Co, one of the oldest yacht design firms globally, famous for its Glasgow studio. She exemplifies traditional yacht construction, from her steel hull to her teak decks.
Through the years, careful renovations have preserved her vintage charm while incorporating state-of-the-art technology to meet modern luxury travelers’ demands. The 2021 refit reinstated much of her original grandeur, maintaining her reputation as a hallmark of mid-20th-century maritime craftsmanship.
The Ultimate ‘Gentleman’s Yacht’
Loved for representing this genre—coined in her time—Camara C radiates the grace and tranquil character of a period when yachting focused on sophistication over extravagance. With her canoe stern and timeless lines, she presents a stunning silhouette on the waves.
Her spacious saloon is flooded with light and showcases exquisite finishes.The design’s attention to detail, inside and out, reflects the artistry of her builders, who equally valued aesthetics and seaworthiness.
Luxurious Space on the High Seas
Her vast deck spaces are fantastic for relaxation or social gatherings. The aft deck boasts fixed seating and a large dining table accommodating ten guests, perfect for outdoor dining while admiring sweeping views of the ocean. The sundeck is another highlight, featuring sun loungers and beds, ideal for basking in the tropical sun during your charter.
A significant aspect of Camara C is her spacious accommodations. She can welcome up to 12 guests across six lavish cabins, or the same number for daytime charters, making her an excellent choice for family vacations or friend gatherings.
Her cabins reflect a bygone time while providing contemporary amenities.The accommodations include a master suite on the main deck with a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room. The remaining five cabins, all featuring en-suites, come in a mix of double and twin layouts. This design ensures both privacy and comfort, a hallmark of her design philosophy.
Where Comfort Meets Character
While Camara C’s vintage style is central to her allure, her reliable mechanics and variety of onboard water toys further enhance her appeal.
Fitted with dual 230hp Gardner engines from the UK, she reaches a cruising speed of 10 knots and a maximum speed of 12 knots. This consistent speed, paired with a 16,500-liter fuel capacity, provides an impressive range of 4,376 nautical miles—allowing for adventurous cruising throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.
Ready for breakfast at the protected outdoor dining area on the main deck.For those looking for some excitement on and beneath the waves, Camara C is equipped with a speedy Valiant 690 Sport Black Carbon tender, along with an extensive selection of water toys like kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear.
These amenities enable guests to explore hidden bays and the crystalline waters of Southeast Asia, adding layers of enjoyment and adventure to the calm luxury she provides.
A Southeast Asian Icon
Currently docked in Phuket, Thailand, Camara C invites her guests to experience some of the most stunning cruising areas in Southeast Asia, especially the Andaman Sea. This region is celebrated for its azure waters, rich marine biodiversity, and untouched islands, making it an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable yachting experience.
The six en-suite cabins vary between doubles and twins.Enjoy the sunrise over Phang Nga Bay, discover secluded beaches, or dive into the vibrant marine ecosystem surrounding Thailand’s islands—these are just a few of the adventures awaiting you. Whether for a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a corporate event, this cruiser harmoniously blends classic charm with contemporary luxury, unparalleled by many yachts.
Camara C’s inflatable ‘floating beach’ serves as a beloved feature among charter groups, easily installed at anchor amid picturesque scenes.
An Ideal Venue for Special Events
With her spacious sundeck and sophisticated interiors, Camara C is also an exceptional choice for hosting intimate gatherings.
Enjoying outdoor dining and drinks.
The large dining table on the aft deck can be expanded to host up to ten guests, making her perfect for celebrating special milestones such as anniversaries or significant birthdays. Moreover, her classic aesthetic and timeless design create a picturesque setting for luxury photoshoots or film productions.
Camara C provides a rare experience in the luxury yachting world: a captivating mix of nostalgia and contemporary convenience. Her esteemed lineage, coupled with high-quality refurbishments, guarantees guests the enjoyment of both worlds.
Images courtesy of Asia Global Yachting.
This article initially appeared on Yachtstyle.Co.
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