AKIKO | Press release

20 April 2017


OCEAN ALLIANCE TO REPRESENT ĀKIKŌ (EX VVS1) AS WORLDWIDE CENTRAL AGENT FOR CHARTER.

by Ocean Alliance.


Ocean Alliance is proud to welcome ĀKIKŌ to the charter market in Australia and the South Pacific.

A popular charter yacht, her profile is recognisable among many.

Following their acquisition, the new Owners completed an extensive refit period with McMullen and Wing in New Zealand. The name ĀKIKŌ reflects her country of origin and means “at a distance from home”, which is the traditional Maori translation.

We are delighted to present this reborn 34m Alloy Yacht for ultimate expedition experiences!

The attention to detail reflected in the yacht’s interior including her extensive artwork collection makes ĀKIKŌ an exceptional vessel. The colourful paintings and sculptures provide a well thought-out theme throughout the yacht, plunging guests into a warm welcoming atmosphere.

An expedition style motor yacht, ĀKIKŌ’s futuristic profile is versatile enough to enter small bays, anchor behind coral atolls or go game fishing over submarine reefs, whilst her luxurious design won 4 premium prizes at the World Superyacht Awards after her launch in 2008.

ĀKIKŌ is based in Perth, Western Australia, and will be travelling the West Coast of Australia until the end of 2017.

In 2018, she is planning to cruise South-East Asia and the South Pacific (Fiji).

Australian Captain Ben Gillard joined ĀKIKŌ in Perth, having run charter yachts in popular international charter destinations. Beginning his career on the Great Barrier Reef, Captain Ben transitioned to superyachts in the late 90’s. He changed directions in 2007 joining the Australian Infantry for several years, before returning to yachts. His recent position was on the popular 147ft Intermarine LADY M.

superyacht akiko charter ocean alliance australia luxury expedition cabin cruise kimberley

ĀKIKŌ is available for charter through Ocean Alliance.
Please enquire or call Laurie Foulon for more information: +61 424 599 889 

Media and PR enquiries: info@oceanalliance.com.au to find out more.
Follow Ocean Alliance on Instagram for daily news and updates (@ocean_alliance).

Experience the Magic of the Mediterranean: Our Top 5 Destinations to Visit

VIEW THE YACHTS From the stunning beaches of Santorini to the historic city of Dubrovnik, discover the top five must-visit destinations in the Mediterranean with this superyacht guide. The Mediterranean… Read More

2023 MYBA Charter Show

The Ocean Alliance team was delighted to travel to Barcelona in April to attend the 2023 MYBA charter show, which we have participated in for over 15 years. ⁠ The… Read More

Hamilton Island Race Week: A Spectacular Event in Australia

Photo credit: Hamilton Island Race Week   The internationally praised Hamilton Island Race Week will be contested on the tropical waters around The Whitsundays from August 19 – 26, 2023…. Read More