Automotive Mogul's Calex Is Up for Charter, and This Vacation Costs Less Than You Think

Ladies and gentlemen, I have the pleasure of bringing to your attention one of the most thrilling experiences you can ever embark upon during this lifetime, living on a superyacht. However, this time around, we're not talking about your average floating kingdom but rather the wave-tearing Calex, none other than David Wilson's bespoke toy. Aside from being a 219 ft (66.7 m) monster, it's even been awarded countless awards for its layout and styling, including Best Layout and the 2022 World Yacht Trophies event.

For starters, let me point out just how much cash you'll need to be able to embark upon experiencing the Calex and all it has to offer, no less than $680,000 (€622K at current exchange rates). While that may sound like quite a bit, you need to take into consideration a few things. The first is this vessel's prestige, and the second is the fact that this puppy is suitable for up to 12 guests. That's a bit over $50,000 (€46K) per person. Did I mention that you'll be pampered around the clock by up to 17 crew members? Not so pricey now, is it?

Overall, Calex displays an exterior that's been brought to life by the touch of Giorgio Cassetta, a rather fresh designer on the superyacht scene in comparison to established giants. But this gentleman is already responsible for over 60 ships exploring hidden waters around the world. Once Benetti and Wilson's own design crew hopped in on the action, everything started to take shape. Now, there's just so much we can talk about when we consider the Calex, so to make things easier to understand, allow me to create a little picture of what your life may be like, if only for a week.

Let's fast forward through all the phone calls and paperwork needed to charter this bugger from Northrop & Johnson and plant you on the side of some dock dressed in your Sunday clothes or the most relaxed Hawaiian outfit. Maybe you're waiting to climb aboard in your swimsuit. After shaking a few warm hands, or not, you start exploring all this wonderful machine has to offer.

Go ahead, take your shoes off, and feel the warmth of wood, heated from the afternoon sun. Maybe you want to feel the cool polished surfaces of the interior or carpeting in staterooms. Some spaces even showcase marble flooring, so a pair of flip-flops may be needed. Then again, Calex might even have heated floors. Maybe you never even make it to the rest of the ship, and you simply have a seat on the edge of the beach club and take in this surreal moment.

At some point in time, you have no choice but to join the rest of the gang. After all, this ship is setting sail. One area where you may find some of your friends or family is at the front of the ship, hanging out on two lounges under the shade of an awning. Others will be scattered all over subsequent decks, wither lounging around indoors or enjoying a meal or drink at any of the alfresco areas. This includes bars, dining areas, and more lounge settings. Awnings accompany outdoor areas to allow for or reduce sunlight.

Inside Calex, this laid-back and luxurious story takes on a different angle. Each room inside follows a similar styling, allowing guests to feel as though they're exploring a continuous and expansive space. It's a really nice effect. Some rooms do break the norms, typically bathrooms and the gym. Other than that, it's milk and cream all over, with touches of wood accents to help make everything pop just a bit more. Take the time to stroll through the image gallery to really get a feel for things.

Without further ado, let me point out all the little knick-knacks that will be the center of your onboard lifestyle. I'm talking about all the toys Calex hides within its hull. This includes several tenders, Wave Runners, sea Bobs, E-Foils, Ravik 3 boards, countless wakeboards, skis, and even a jetski dock with a swim platform, and that's just part of the lineup.

Once you've spent a day in the sun and local waters, blasting around on jet skis and soliciting your muscle groups, it's time to kick back with a bit of tender love and care. I'm talking about activities like deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, reflexology, facials, and waxing sessions; you name it. You can even get your nails done.

After you've been pampered and cared for in all sorts of ways, it's time to embark upon the activities of the night. Blast your favorite songs - maybe you bring a DJ - have your favorite drink in cue, and dance the night away. Take the time to enjoy a meal crafted by your very own chef.

Sure, you may be spending a bit more than you would on your average vacation, but this sort of experience is one that needs to be had. If you're ever going to charter anything, Calex is the ship to do so. Remember to take lots of pictures.