€25,000 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.
Available weeks
Crewed charter: live availability and weekly pricing are confirmed with the operator when you enquire.
Gallery 6 photos
Photos supplied by the operator. Specifications are SailChecker-Verified , but images may show a sister yacht or stock photography — especially on yachts under two years old. Confirm the actual boat with us at quote time.
Specifications & Equipment 5 cab · 10 berths · 5 wc
Length27.5m
Beam5.8m
Cabins5
Berths10
WC5
Year1982
TypeSailing yacht
About this yacht
Timeless performance reborn - classic soul, modern luxury. 27.50m DARK STAR OF LONDON, built by Trehard in Antibes and designed by Martin Francis, began life as the successful racer BUZY B before a major rebuild at Camper & Nicholson (2000/2002) with new interiors, teak decks, and upgraded systems.
Further refits in 2023/2024, plus upgrades in 2025 (textiles, Starlink, lighting, generator) and 2026 (rudder bearings, hydraulics, engine service, A/C, refrigeration), have kept her fully modern. Often compared to a Swan, she meets Category 0 standards with five watertight doors and system redundancies.
She accommodates 10 guests in 5 en-suite cabins, with teak decks, alfresco dining, water access, and full entertainment onboard. Capacity: 11 guests with 4 crew (or 12 with 3), and up to 25 guests quayside.
Further refits in 2023/2024, plus upgrades in 2025 (textiles, Starlink, lighting, generator) and 2026 (rudder bearings, hydraulics, engine service, A/C, refrigeration), have kept her fully modern. Often compared to a Swan, she meets Category 0 standards with five watertight doors and system redundancies.
She accommodates 10 guests in 5 en-suite cabins, with teak decks, alfresco dining, water access, and full entertainment onboard. Capacity: 11 guests with 4 crew (or 12 with 3), and up to 25 guests quayside.
Crew
- Captain Denys GrachovSail and Work Experience Denys is an experienced captain, engineer, and sailing instructor with charter and expedition experience across the Mediterranean, French and Italian waters, Corsica, Sardinia, and Antarctica. He has captained DARK STAR OF LONDON and WIND DANCER, worked with Kyiv Yacht School and Fleet 5, and has sailed numerous sailing and motor yachts up to 28m, including JEANNEAU 490, FOUNTAINE PAJOT 40, LAGOON 52, PRINCESS 80, and AZIMUT 86. He also spent eight years racing professionally in the ILCA class for the Ukrainian National Team. Job Description Denys is responsible for navigation, safety, and the overall running and financial management of the vessel, crew, and guests. He ensures the safe and efficient operation of the yacht at all times, including compliance with all safety procedures and regulations. He oversees adherence to flag state requirements, port regulations, and local laws while managing the crew to maintain the highest operational standards. He promotes teamwork, delegates responsibilities effectively, and ensures guests receive an exceptional experience onboard. Licences and Qualifications • MYA Yacht Master Offshore 200GT Certificate of Competence • GMDSS General Operator Certificate of Competence (VHF / MF / INMARSAT / HF+DSC A1+A2+A3+A4) • Radar Observer Certificate of Competence (Marine Radar) • STCW Basic Training ’10 • PADI Open Water Diver Level 2 Certificate • Ukrainian Category B Driver’s Licence
- Chef Fabrizio LitteraSail and Work Experience Fabrizio is an accomplished Italian chef from Sardinia with over 23 years of professional experience, including time in Michelin-starred restaurants and as a private yacht chef serving VIP families worldwide. Specialising in Mediterranean and Italian fine dining, he is renowned for his refined seafood dishes, artistic presentation, bespoke menus, and exceptional galley management. In 2017, he achieved 2nd place at the World Champion Chef competition in Malaysia. Job Description As Chef, Fabrizio is responsible for planning and preparing exceptional meals for guests and crew, accommodating dietary requirements and preferences while maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and food safety. He manages provisioning, budgeting, inventory, and galley operations, ensuring a seamless and memorable onboard dining experience. Licences and Qualifications • Over 23 years of professional culinary experience • Michelin-star restaurant experience • 2nd Place – World Champion Chef Competition (Malaysia, 2017)
- Stewardess Nadine PriceNadine is an experienced stewardess with three seasons on motor and sailing yachts, working on both private and charter vessels in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. She has held sole stewardess roles aboard ASTROLABE, YORLAY, and JM, managing housekeeping, laundry, guest service, provisioning, interior presentation, and crew cooking. Prior to yachting, she gained over 10 years of luxury hospitality and VIP events experience in the UK and UAE, delivering exceptional service at high-profile events and for private clients. Job Description As Stewardess, Nadine is responsible for maintaining the yacht’s interior to impeccable standards, including housekeeping, laundry, detailing, table settings, and guest cabin preparation. She provides attentive food and beverage service, assists with provisioning and inventory management, and ensures guests receive a seamless, professional, and welcoming onboard experience while supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the vessel. Licences and Qualifications • RYA Day Skipper (Sailing) • RYA Competent Crew (Sailing) • STCW 95/10 • ENG1 • B1/B2 Visa • First Aid • Powerboat Level 2 • Basic Seamanship Certificate • Professional Practices & Responsibilities • RYA Short Range (VHF) • Food Hygiene Level 2 • Open Water PADI • Seaman Book (Cayman Islands & Malta) • Full UK Driving Licence • Holistic Massage Level 3 (FHT & IPHM) • 200hr Ashtanga & Kundalini Yoga Certification
- Deckhand Tom Andy KewnSail and Work Experience Tom has over five years of yachting experience and more than 18,000 sea miles, progressing from deckhand to captain at a young age. He has served as Captain aboard ISLA DE FLORA and OPTIMIST OF LONDON II, as First Mate on transatlantic and Mediterranean deliveries aboard LIVING THE DREAM and SERENITAS, and has extensive experience in charter operations, navigation, vessel maintenance, crew training, and guest service. His background also includes managing maintenance schedules and supporting yacht sales, making him a well-rounded and proactive crew member. Job Description As Deckhand, Tom is responsible for the exterior maintenance and presentation of the yacht, assisting with docking, anchoring, line handling, tender operations, and water sports equipment. He supports navigation and watchkeeping, carries out routine maintenance and cleaning, and works closely with the captain and crew to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel while providing excellent service to guests. Licences and Qualifications • Commercially Endorsed RYA Yachtmaster Coastal • ENG1 Medical Certificate • GMDSS • Professional Practices and Responsibilities • Certificate of Proficiency in Personal Survival Techniques • Certificate of Proficiency in Elementary First Aid
- Rotational Chef 1 Haris HadžipašićSail and work experience Haris is a highly skilled chef with a strong background in Michelin-level kitchens and high-end European gastronomy. He has progressed through roles from Chef de Partie to Sous Chef and Head Chef positions, gaining extensive experience in fine dining, kitchen leadership, and high-pressure service. His culinary style is modern and refined, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and Mediterranean cuisine, complemented by French and Italian influences. He is confident creating both elegant tasting menus and tailored daily dining, with a strong ability to adapt to guest preferences and dietary requirements. Job Description Haris is responsible for the preparation and delivery of all guest and crew meals onboard, maintaining exceptional standards of quality, hygiene, and presentation at all times. He manages provisioning, menu planning, and galley organization, ensuring efficiency even in demanding conditions at sea. He creates diverse, seasonal menus tailored to guest preferences and dietary needs, delivering a refined and memorable dining experience onboard. Licences and Qualifications • School for Tourism, Hospitality and Trade, Pula – Junior Chef Qualification • Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Opatija – Food & Beverage Manager • Culinary Institute Kul In – Culinary Arts • AZRRI – Professional Chef Education and Masterclasses
- Rotational Chef 2 Hugh Gardiner-HillSail and Work Experience Hugh is a highly experienced chef who has worked for UHNW individuals, including members of various Royal Families and celebrities worldwide. He has expertly catered for up to 19 crew members and orchestrated exquisite seven- course tasting menus for up to 14 guests. Approachable and highly creative, Hugh is passionate about delivering exceptional culinary experiences. With eight years of experience working across a diverse range of establishments, he possesses extensive knowledge of Mediterranean cuisine, particularly French and Italian, as well as expertise in dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian dishes. Beyond the kitchen, Hugh has a love for sailing and a vibrant, engaging personality. His enthusiasm for life at sea ensures guests enjoy a warm, memorable experience. Job description As the chef, Ben is responsible for the crew and guest meals throughout the charter, ensuring that the food is enjoyable, the interior of the yacht is clean and serviceable, and that all dietary requirements are met. He is a creative cook, varying her meals to provide variety and according to the location of DARK STAR OF LONDON, to have as much relevance as possible to the region being visited.
Season rates
| Period | Guests | Per week | Not included |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Mediterranean (1 Jun 2027 to 30 Jun 2027) | 10 | €32,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 Jul 2026 to 31 Aug 2026) | 10 | €35,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 Sep 2026 to 30 Sep 2026) | 10 | €32,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 May 2027 to 30 Jun 2027) | 10 | €5,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 Jul 2026 to 31 Aug 2026) | 10 | €6,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 Sep 2026 to 30 Sep 2026) | 10 | €5,000 | + all expenses |
| West Mediterranean (1 May 2027 to 31 May 2027) | 10 | €25,000 | + 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
- Donut
- Kneeboard
- Paddleboards
- Sea Scooter
- Wakeboard
- Water skis - adult
- Water skis - child
Tenders
- 6 person Ribeye RIB tender with 40hp Yamaha 4 stroke outboard engine
Diving
- Dive Compressor
- Snorkeling Equipment
Cabin charter
Cabin charter (book a single cabin) is not offered for this yacht.
What KateBot thinks Strengths and trade-offs
SailChecker note
44 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.
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Good to know Check-in Flexible · 17:00 · out 09:00
- Location
- Marina Di Portisco, Via Riga, Olbia, Province of Sassari, 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).
Frequently asked questions 14 answers
Does DARK STAR OF LONDON come with a crew?
DARK STAR OF LONDON 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 DARK STAR OF LONDON?
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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Read before you book 5 articles
The seasoned-skipper's checklist — soft bag, deck shoes, and the things first-timers forget.
Read full article ›What happens at the marina on day one — and how to keep the handover smooth.
Read full article ›The cover that protects your deposit, your crew, and your kit — explained without the small print.
Read full article ›Skipper qualifications, charter types, what to expect — the honest first-time map.
Read full article ›Galley space, water tanks, what to buy local — provision like a skipper, not a tourist.
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