365 days of sunshine: Semi-custom yachts with beach clubs

Why semi-custom yachts make sense for modern owners

‘Semi-custom’ is increasingly becoming a buzzword in the yachting industry, appealing to owners seeking a tailored luxury yachting lifestyle. Simply put, a semi-custom yacht is a pre-existing model built from scratch which allows you to personalise key elements – from interior layouts to exterior amenities – creating a unique vessel without the lead times of a fully custom build.

This approach offers the best of both worlds: shipyards maintain the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship while streamlining production processes and reducing lead times compared to fully custom builds, making build times more efficient. Semi-custom yachts often fall under the 500GT threshold, but some successful platforms exceed this, like the Amels Limited Editions fleet offering options from 60m to 80m.

For owners prioritising year-round cruising, semi-custom designs can be tailored to suit climate, deck layouts, and lifestyle features, including expansive beach clubs, outdoor lounges, and versatile water-level entertainment spaces.

The rise of the beach club lifestyle

Yachting is no longer defined solely by the ability to travel or as a symbol of wealth. Today, it represents a refined and intentional way of living, where every detail is designed to elevate comfort and leisure. Yacht beach clubs are the ultimate expression of this shift, blending indoor and outdoor spaces to create an informal, convivial environment.

Traditionally, tenders and toys were stowed aft, but by moving them forward the space at the stern transforms into a beach club – a versatile area designed for lounging, dining, or waterside wellness. Owners can enjoy life at the water’s edge, whether it’s a quiet morning swim, afternoon cocktails, or sunset gatherings.

Yachts that redefine life at the water’s edge

Life on board is becoming less formal, and spaces are designed to serve multiple followers. Today’s beach clubs are fully functional wellness and activity centres, offering everything from cocktail bars and spa treatments to yoga and sunbathing directly at the waterline.

Versatile design allows these spaces to evolve from day to night: spa zones by day transform into intimate cocktail bars by evening. The result is a yacht that maximises both relaxation and entertainment while enhancing the year-round cruising experience. Whether you are enjoying winter sunshine yachting in the Caribbean or a summer escape in the Mediterranean, a beach club yacht elevates every moment spent on board.