ART Marine, an Abraaj Capital portfolio company and the Middle East's largest importer and distributor of luxury motor yachts, has signed a long-term agreement with Abu Dhabi's Aldar Properties as the exclusive Yacht Charter Partner for Yas Island. The development is Aldar's major leisure and entertainment destination and venue for the Formula 1(TM) Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The first phase of this project, which included the Yas Marina Circuit, seven hotels, the Yas Marina and all the related infrastructure was delivered ahead of the race. October 2009 the area's first golf course will open in 2010 as will Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, set to be the world's largest indoor theme park. Yas Island will also be home to further leisure parks, major retail locations, further hotels, restaurants, and many other exciting venues and facilities.
During the recent F1 Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit, ART Marine had the largest number of chartered yachts present. Chartered yachts included various Benetti megayachts, with numerous other Flybridge and Sports models from the Azimut, Atlantis and Riviera range completing the charter fleet.
Guests followed the race weekend from their yachts, enjoyed the lifestyle, and participated at the events staged by the organizers, which included amongst others live music concerts by world-famous music performers. During the race week, ART Marine hosted existing and new customers, business partners and other guests on board of two yachts, an Azimut 62 and a Riviera 48.
"We are very honored to sign this exclusive agreement with Al Dar Properties and are looking forward to operating our business from our new office at this prestigious marina. Congratulations to Al Dar for completing such magnificent facility which sets new standards world wide". Constantinos Constantinou, ART Marine CEO commented
.As part of the agreement with Aldar Properties, ART Marine will be occupying 15 berths directly in front of the Yas Marina Yacht Club. The company's permanent office, located at the ground floor of the Club, is currently being fitted out and decorated in preparation of the official opening
Paul Lane, Aldar Marinas General Manger commented "we are pleased to have ART Marine as our partners. They have a long-standing operation in the GCC and they demonstrated their capability to deliver a world class operation in Yas Marina, not to mention their stunning yacht fleet". We are looking forward to see them operating throughout our marinas.
