Palmer Johnson 52m | DB9

Motor yacht · Sanremo, Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy · Worth Avenue Yachts

4 cab 12 berths 52.1m 2010
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24 people viewed this yacht in the last 7 days
SailChecker-Verified 10+ years on the water Secure payment Refund-protected charter contract Independent UK broker
€265,000 from / week

The charter fee covers the yacht, standard equipment, and insurance. Cleaning, tourist tax, and any optional extras (skipper, paddle board, etc.) are billed at the base — we confirm the full breakdown when you request a quote.

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Available weeks

Crewed charter: live availability and weekly pricing are confirmed with the operator when you enquire.

Specifications & Equipment 4 cab · 12 berths · 4 wc 52m · 2010 · Motor yacht
Length52.1m
Beam8.7m
Cabins4
Berths12
WC4
Year2010
TypeMotor yacht
About this yacht DB9 is a striking Palmer Johnson sport yacht that commands attention wherever she cruises.
DB9 is a striking Palmer Johnson sport yacht that commands attention wherever she cruises. With her sweeping lines and distinctive metallic grey exterior, this iconic PJ 170 is truly one of a kind. Designed to accommodate up to 12 guests in five luxurious staterooms, DB9 offers an exceptional blend of performance, style, and comfort.

Her standout features include a sleek contemporary interior, an expansive open sundeck with an open-air cinema, an infinity Jacuzzi on the aft deck, a second Jacuzzi on the flybridge, and an impressive 25-foot (8-meter) pool on the foredeck. Built for speed as well as elegance, DB9 cruises comfortably at 22 knots and reaches a thrilling top speed of 30 knots, ensuring swift and stylish passages between destinations.

DB9 is fully equipped with an extensive collection of water toys, including a 6.4-meter (21-foot) Castoldi jet tender, two Jet Skis, two Sea bobs, an inflatable kayak, a Lift e-foil, waterskis, wakeboards, and more—offering endless on-the-water adventure for guests of all ages.

Accommodation is superb, featuring a spacious full-beam owner’s stateroom, two queen VIP staterooms, and two twin staterooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. The sundeck is a true highlight, furnished with stylish black lounge seating and oversized parasols, creating the perfect space to relax and entertain. Guests can unwind in the Jacuzzi, enjoy a leisurely lunch with panoramic Mediterranean views, or settle in for a movie under the stars at the open-air cinema.

From exhilarating performance to exceptional amenities, luxury yacht DB9 delivers an unforgettable charter experience with endless possibilities.
Crew
  • Captain Marc LeuzingerMarc was born in Cannes, in the South of France, and grew up in West Africa with a passion for the outdoors and sports. During his youth, he enjoyed windsurfing, surfing, and sailing with his family along the Atlantic coast. Winter holidays were spent in the mountains, skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland and France. Marc joined the yachting industry in 1996 and began his career as a Captain. Over the years, he has commanded multiple yachts and built a long and successful career as a charter Captain. He has extensive cruising experience and takes great pride in working with his crew to ensure that every guest on board enjoys a memorable and exceptional experience.
  • Chief Engineer Hector Bergery DelgadoHector has over 20 years of experience in the industry as a Chief Engineer. He graduated as a Naval Mechanical Engineer from the Naval Academy in Cuba and, after serving five years in the Cuban Navy, Hector transitioned into the yachting sector. Hector possesses in-depth knowledge of maintenance, troubleshooting, and the repair of complete engineering, electrical, and electronic systems. Known for his cheerful and approachable personality, Hector is a proud father and enjoys dancing and socializing. He is also an avid baseball fan.
  • First Officer Chloe WarrenChloe grew up in London and began her yachting career several years ago, starting out as a chase boat captain before progressing onto mega and gigayachts. She has cruised extensively throughout the Mediterranean, working on both motor and sailing yachts and developing a well rounded understanding of life on deck and the expectations of high level guest programs. Always happiest on the water, Chloe enjoys watersports, swimming, wakeboarding, and fishing, along with exploring coastlines and staying active outdoors. She takes pride in delivering an exceptional experience for guests and is dedicated to upholding high standards in all aspects of her role.
  • Chef Lordian JohnsonWith over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and catering industry, including 10 years on the 75m M.Y. Zeus 2, Lordian brings a well-rounded background that ranges from basic catering operations to fine dining restaurants, hotels, and superyachts. He is known for being enthusiastic, intelligent, and ambitious, with a natural ability to motivate those around him. His extensive experience and culinary expertise consistently contribute to outstanding service and guest satisfaction. Confident in his skills and leadership, he is well-equipped to ensure that any voyage across the Mediterranean becomes an unforgettable culinary experience.
  • Bosun Zander OdendaalZander developed an early interest in the industry after being introduced to the idea of traveling abroad and creating a successful life, allowing him to be independent. He has worked in yachting since 2022, bringing his experience from the hospitality industry as well as his eager-to-succeed attitude. His passion for making new connections has contributed greatly towards his career. Over the years, he has built up sea time as a Mate & Videographer, including adventures around the Caribbean, Bahamas, New England, Florida, and some of the Mediterranean.
  • Chief Stewardess Casiana SerghieschuCasiana is an experience hospitality professional with a background in leading interior teams on board. She stepped into her first leadership role at just 23 years old and now at 27 she brings several years of hands-on experience delivering high standards of service in a fast-paced yachting environment. With a bubbly and approachable personality, she naturally creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while her focus, dedication and motivation ensure that every detail is handled with care. She is known for her strong organizational skills and natural sense of style with a true passion for creating elegant and memorable table settings that elevate the guest experience. Attentive and proactive she takes pride in anticipating needs and ensuring that life on board runs smoothly at all times. She strives to inspire and motivate those around her through positivity, professionalism, and a hands-on approach. Balancing energy, creativity, and efficiency, she is committed to delivering exceptional service on board DB9, making every moment unforgettable for both guest and crew.
  • 2nd Stewardess Kristina ZečevićOriginally from the coastal town of Herceg Novi, Montenegro, Kristina began her career after graduating from hospitality school. She gained valuable experience aboard cruise ships and an expedition vessel before finding her passion in the yachting industry. Kristina is dedicated to creating exceptional guest experiences through warm, personalized service and thoughtful attention to detail. She enjoys adding creative touches through elegant table settings, cocktails, and memorable onboard experiences, while believing that strong teamwork is the key to every successful charter.
  • 3rd stewardess Grace Cameron22 years old and originally from South Africa. Growing up in Cap Town. South Africa Shape her love for the ocean and hospitality which she carries into the work on board. Grace brings a positive attitude, strong work ethic and adaptability to every role, while maintaining a calm, approachable presence, and a high standard of service on board Motor Yacht DB9. Outside the work, she enjoys staying active through running and gym, spending time at the beach, and being around nature. She is excited to be part of the team on M/Y DB9 and views this opportunity as a valuable stepping stone in her continued growth within the yachting industry.
  • Deckhand Leo Leuzinger-GousseffLeo is a dedicated Deckhand with a true passion for the sea since a very young age. He’s someone who thrives in making sure everything runs smoothly on board, taking pride in handling the details that make a trip feel effortless for guests. Leo’s calm, focused nature helps create an environment where guests can relax and enjoy their experience, knowing everything is taken care of behind the scenes. While Leo’s primary focus is on maintaining a smooth operation, his positive energy and strong work ethic help contribute to the overall atmosphere onboard, ensuring that everyone can make the most of their time at sea. His approach is simple: work hard, stay focused, and always do what’s needed to make the experience great for the guests. Outside of work, Leo is passionate about paddle and surfing and he brings that same energy and drive to everything he does. Whether on the water or off, he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to grow, making him an enthusiastic and reliable member of any crew.
  • 2nd engineer Marko SabolovicMarko is a highly organized, motivated, and dependable maritime professional with hands-on experience as both an Engineer and Deckhand. He has a solid track record of managing engine room operations, conducting mechanical maintenance, and enforcing safety procedures, all while taking on deck responsibilities including tender operations and water sports coordination. Marko has strong problem-solving capabilities, and a steadfast commitment to operational excellence and crew collaboration. Currently seeking to advance my yachting career as an Engineer, bringing a comprehensive understanding of yacht operations, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of vessel management.
  • Deckhand Michael DuvenageMichael is an energetic, professional and guest-focused originally from South Africa, he joined M/Y DB9 in May 2026. Michael takes pride in delivering a high quality guest experience with professionalism and a smile, his responsibilities onboard include deck maintenance and tender operations. His high attention to detail and driven personality makes him a key asset onboard. He has a strong creative background in drone videography and filmmaking, combining technical skill with an eye for capturing unforgettable moments at sea. When off duty, Michael is happiest outdoors pursuing adventure whether surfing, diving, wakeboarding, or exploring the ocean whenever possible.
Season rates
PeriodGuestsPer weekNot included
West Mediterranean (1 Jul 2026 to 31 Aug 2026)12€290,000+ all expenses
West Mediterranean (1 Apr 2027 to 30 Jun 2027)12€265,000+ all expenses
West Mediterranean (1 Sep 2026 to 31 Oct 2026)12€265,000+ all expenses

Weekly crewed rates by season. Fuel, food, drinks, and port fees are typically settled via an Advance Provisioning Allowance and confirmed on your quote.

Water toys and diving

Water toys

  • Inflatable Watertoys
  • Jet Skis (standup)
  • Kayak
  • Kneeboard
  • Wakeboard
  • Water skis - adult
  • Water skis - child
  • Waverunner (Sit Down)

Tenders

  • Castoldi jet

Diving

  • Diving by arrangement
  • Snorkeling Equipment
Cabin charter

Cabin charter (book a single cabin) is not offered for this yacht.

What KateBot thinks Strengths and trade-offs KateBot generated · ~200 words
SailChecker note

16 years old. Yachts of this age statistically need more in-charter maintenance attention — ask the operator for the recent service log when you enquire, and budget a small contingency for niggles (a stuck winch, a tired bilge pump). On a well-cared-for boat this is usually just part of the rhythm of charter; on a neglected one, it can spoil a week.

Who It Suits. This is a solid choice for groups wanting serious water sports action combined with Mediterranean coastal cruising. The four cabins work well for extended family trips or two couples, while the 12-berth capacity suggests owner-operator flexibility rather than pure charter positioning.

The Water Sports Focus. DB9 stands out for its genuine watersports lineup; you get jet skis, wakeboards, water skis, kayaks, and a sit-down waverunner plus inflatable toys. The swim platform and on-deck Jacuzzi make sense for a motor yacht in this size bracket, and stabilizers at anchor mean less pitching around when you're moored off Liguria's coves.

Value At This Price Point. At 265,000 euros per week from a 2010 Palmer Johnson, you're paying for a well-equipped cruising platform in one of Europe's most convenient charter regions. Sanremo sits just behind the Côte d'Azur with straightforward road access from Nice airport (roughly 90 minutes), making transatlantic connections practical. The zero deposit is unusually appealing and signals operator confidence.

The Honest Caveat. A 52-metre motor yacht from 2010 will carry running costs and fuel bills that reflect her size; confirm what's included in charter rates before booking. The watersports equipment is extensive on paper, but verify actual maintenance and availability with Worth Avenue Yachts directly, since kit condition varies widely across charter fleets.

KateBot is SailChecker's AI sailing assistant, trained on Kate's real charter correspondence. Kate and the human team still review every booking — KateBot drafts, Kate decides.

Good to know Check-in Flexible · 17:00 · out 09:00 Location · Licences · Deposit · Cancellation
Location
Sanremo, Sanremo, Province of Imperia, Italy · Italy
Check-in
Flexible from 17:00. Alternative times can usually be agreed with the operator at booking.
Check-out
By 09:00 on the return day. Empty the boat, refuel if required, then a 30-minute handover with the base manager.
Licences
ICC or RYA Day Skipper licence and VHF certificate are required. Italian operators ask for a sailing CV; conditions are stricter in the Aeolian Islands than on the mainland.
Security deposit
A refundable security deposit is taken at the base by card swipe or cash. The exact amount is confirmed at quote time; refunded after handover provided the boat and inventory are returned undamaged.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are operator-specific and disclosed in the charter contract before payment. As a rule, most Mediterranean operators retain the full charter fee within 30 days of departure; we recommend charter cancellation insurance via a UK broker (typically 4-5% of the charter fee).
Getting there 3 airports nearby Flights to Italy

The nearest international airports for this base, with a quick note on which suits which marina. Final transfer arrangements are confirmed at quote time.

Naples NAP ~60 km · 1.5 h

Amalfi Coast — Salerno, Capri, Procida bases. Naples is the main hub; train link to the marinas.

Olbia OLB ~10 km · 20 min

Sardinia north coast — Cala dei Sardi, Cannigione, Porto Cervo bases.

Palermo PMO ~30 km · 40 min

Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. Daily flights from London and Rome.

Possible routes 2 hand-picked itineraries Italy · west coast & islands

A starting point, not a script — pick one as a template and we'll tailor the dates, stops, and pace to your crew.

Amalfi Coast 7 days · ~120 nm · 5 stops

Spectacular but anchorages crowd in July-August. Book restaurant moorings ahead.

1 Salerno
Charter base. Spend the first night here before the coast.
2 Amalfi
Tie alongside or pick up a mooring outside the breakwater.
3 Positano
No marina — moor offshore and tender in. The dramatic photo stop.
4 Capri
Marina Grande books months ahead; many boats anchor in Marina Piccola instead.
5 Procida
Quieter than Capri, equally pretty. Marina di Corricella has the colourful houses.
Sardinia & La Maddalena 7 days · ~140 nm · 4 stops

Turquoise water and granite islands. Two-country tick (Italy + Corsica/France) without long sails.

1 Olbia
Charter base.
2 Maddalena
Permits required — the park office handles them; budget €20-30 per night.
3 Caprera
Garibaldi's island; clear anchorages on the east side.
4 Bonifacio
French Corsica — cliff-faced fjord harbour. Stamp the passport. Worth the day.
Frequently asked questions 14 answers Charter basics · deposits · what's included
Does DB9 come with a crew?
DB9 is chartered fully crewed. Your captain and crew handle the sailing, provisioning, and itinerary, so no sailing licence or experience is required from you or your guests.
What experience do we need to charter DB9?
None. This is a fully crewed charter: the professional crew run the yacht, so no licence, certificate, or prior sailing experience is needed. Tell us what you want from the week and the crew plan around it.
What's included in the charter price?
The charter fee covers the yacht, standard equipment, and insurance for the dates booked. Tourist tax, transit log (final cleaning + bed linen), fuel, food, marina fees during the trip, and any optional extras (skipper, paddle board, etc.) are normally extra and paid at the base.
What additional costs should I expect at the base?
Typical mandatory extras are the transit log (often €200–€350), tourist tax (a small per-person-per-day fee), and a refundable security deposit (often €1,500–€5,000 depending on the yacht). Optional extras like a skipper, hostess, paddle board, or early check-in are listed on the quote.
How does the security deposit work?
The deposit is held by the operator at check-in (usually card pre-authorisation) and refunded after check-out if the yacht is returned without damage. Many operators offer a deposit-waiver insurance product that reduces the held amount in exchange for a smaller non-refundable premium.
Can I cancel my charter booking?
Cancellation terms vary by operator. Most allow cancellation with a full refund if requested more than 60–90 days before the start date, with progressive penalties closer to departure. Some operators offer a flexible-cancellation insurance product when you book.
Is the yacht insured?
Yes — every yacht is insured by the operator against damage and third-party liability. The insurance covers the yacht itself; personal effects and trip cancellation are not covered and are worth insuring separately.
What documents do I need to bring?
You'll need your passport and proof of payment. The captain sends a preference sheet ahead of time covering dietary requirements, preferences, and any special requests, so the crew can plan the week around you.
What payment methods are accepted?
Charter fees are normally paid by bank transfer in advance (often a 50% deposit at booking, balance 30 days before charter). On-base extras are usually paid by card or in cash.
What is included on a fully crewed charter?
A crewed charter includes the yacht and its professional crew (typically a captain plus chef and/or hostess on larger yachts). The crew handle navigation, cooking, and the daily running of the boat; you agree the itinerary together. Fuel, food, drinks, and port fees are usually settled via an Advance Provisioning Allowance (commonly around 30 percent of the charter fee), confirmed on your quote.
Can we sail to a neighbouring country during the charter?
Sometimes, with the operator's written consent and the right paperwork. Common cross-borders: Croatia → Montenegro, Greece → Turkey, BVI → USVI. Most operators charge a one-off cruising-permit fee (typically €100–€300) and need 4–8 weeks' notice. Tell us at quote time and we'll arrange it — spontaneous border-crossing during the trip usually isn't allowed.
Do I need travel insurance on top of the charter insurance?
Yes. The yacht is insured by the operator for damage and third-party liability, but that doesn't cover you. Charter cancellation insurance (typically 4–5% of the charter fee) covers you if you have to cancel last-minute; standard travel insurance covers medical, flight, and personal-effects loss. We can recommend a UK broker that bundles both.
What happens if there's bad weather on the day?
For day-to-day weather you'll plan the week to avoid the worst — the Adriatic and Aegean have very predictable wind patterns. If a serious storm makes the start-day handover impossible, the operator delays check-in until conditions improve and refunds any lost days. The yacht itself is insured against weather damage, so you're not exposed.
Can I hold this yacht while I decide?
Yes — an option holds the yacht in your name for typically 48–72 hours at no cost. Useful if you're waiting on the rest of the crew to confirm, comparing it against another yacht, or sorting flights. Ask us when you enquire and we'll arrange the option with the operator.
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