Khalid Affara, a superyacht owner and the visionary behind The Wellesley, London’s first boutique-grand hotel has brought his twin passions under one umbrella.
The consummate hotelier wants guests of his hotel who have enjoyed the sophisticated luxury and uncompromising service in London to be able to do the same at sea.
He has completely refitted a 32-metre yacht, based her in the South of France and given her the same name as the hotel. The Wellesley now available for charter is from Falcon Yachts and was built in Italy and designed to provide for up to 10 guests.
The yacht perfectly compliments the hotel’s boutique feel, bespoke service and personal touches to ensure a memorable stay, and we’re looking forward to welcoming new and existing customers on board to continue to enjoy The Wellesley experience.
The yacht’s interior styling is a reflection of hotel. Contemporary entertainment and technology is seamlessly integrated into her golden era luxury, featuring bespoke handmade furniture, bevelled mirrors and stunning fashion photography from the 1920s and 1930s Vanity Fair and Vogue archives. The immaculate finish is further accentuated by the individually designed touches such as the bronze coffee table and humidor.
Expansive living areas both above and below deck exude the timeless elegance of 1920s inspired art deco style seen in sister hotel The Wellesley, located in the heart of Knightsbridge. The main saloon is a generous entertaining space leading to the main dining area, and the staterooms are designed to combine comfort and modern luxury. The master cabin is a haven of relaxation, with a walk-in wardrobe, dressing table and king sized bed. The en-suite bathroom features Romeo and Juliet basins, St Laurent marble, Hermes amenities and gold finishes. There is also one VIP double stateroom and two twin cabins featuring Pullman bunks.
Sundecks offer a luxurious Jacuzzi, relaxation areas, large wet bar and barbeque. The wakeboard and waterski equipment ensures that guests can make the most of the stunning Mediterranean waters, and the experience is topped off with al fresco dining and sunset cocktails to impressive sea views from the flybridge.
Every experience on board is unique, whether that be exploring the rugged landscapes of Sicily with enthralling helicopter flights around the smoking peak of Stromboli, or roaming the Riviera, mooring in its buzzing ports to sample chic beach clubs, world-class restaurants, boutiques and spas.
The on board chef is available day and night to cater to every whim and charter guests may also use the galley at their leisure.