The 85-Metre Decision: CHAKRA vs. GRAND OCEAN

Here we have two distinct histories. GRAND OCEAN is a product of the legendary Blohm+Voss shipyard in Germany, launched in 1990, and bears the coveted signature of designer Alberto Pinto. She represents a blue-chip asset from a golden era of custom yacht building; a true piece of naval art. Her classic, muscular lines and wider 12.8-metre beam speak to her robust, sea-going heritage. CHAKRA, by contrast, is a 1998 conversion by Davenport, extensively refit in 2017. While an impressive 86 metres in length, her origins are more functional. Her design is driven by the mandate to accommodate a high number of guests, resulting in a unique profile dominated by five decks of accommodation. While GRAND OCEAN is a thoroughbred, CHAKRA is a powerful and capable vessel engineered for a specific, high-capacity purpose. The aesthetic choice is between a timeless icon and a bold, contemporary statement.

This is the most significant point of divergence. Both yachts are commercially registered for up to 24 guests, a rare and valuable attribute. However, they achieve this in vastly different ways. CHAKRA’s layout is extraordinary, offering 21 suites. This configuration is ideal for corporate charters where equal-status accommodation is required, or for families where every member desires their own private cabin. While practical, the suites are naturally more compact than you would find on a yacht with fewer cabins. GRAND OCEAN accommodates her 24 guests across 14 suites. This immediately implies that her guest cabins, including the master suite, are larger and more varied, offering a more traditionally spacious and luxurious private setting. The decision is stark: do you require the ultimate in cabin numbers with CHAKRA, or the more expansive individual luxury offered by GRAND OCEAN?

Service is paramount on any charter, and both yachts are well-staffed. CHAKRA’s crew of 30 is a necessity to manage 21 suites and up to 24 guests seamlessly. The service style is adept at handling complex, large-scale hospitality, from corporate functions to multi-generational family needs. The crew-to-guest ratio is excellent, ensuring attentive service across the yacht's large footprint. GRAND OCEAN’s crew of 28 serving 14 suites allows for a slightly higher crew-to-cabin ratio, suggesting a deeply personalised, anticipatory style of service. While both vessels will carry an impressive inventory of water toys and tenders befitting their size, a detailed discussion with your broker is essential. GRAND OCEAN's upcoming 2026 refit will certainly see her equipped with the very latest equipment, a point to consider for future bookings.