Beyond 'super': unique yacht design with Burgess
On board AIX with Captain Benjamin
Published 23 septembre 2025
A true haven for exploration enthusiasts, AIX was crafted for travellers looking to uncover the Pacific’s most captivating corners, blending adventure with contemporary comfort.
We spoke to her brand new Captain Benjamin, who was in the Society Islands.
The yacht: speed, style, and comfort
For someone who’s never been aboard, how would you describe the overall feeling and atmosphere of AIX?
‘I’ve been on board AIX as captain for about four weeks now, and the first thing that stood out was how modern and thoughtfully designed she is. The spaces feel expansive, with so many different areas for guests to enjoy – from the sun deck and main deck aft to the bow with its jacuzzi. The beach club is a real highlight too – when it’s fully open, it feels like you’re on a 60m yacht.’
What type of guests do you think AIX is best suited to?
'AIX is ideal for guests with a sense of adventure, drawn to French Polynesia’s incredible offerings. You could be diving world-class sites in the morning and fishing for big pelagic fish by the afternoon. Our crew is always prepared for the unexpected – like spotting humpback whales and switching plans for a potential swim. It’s perfect for those who love action, exploration, and a bit of spontaneity.'
What do you think makes AIX stand out compared to other yachts of her size and pedigree?
‘AIX’s guest areas are far more spacious and versatile than most yachts I’ve seen in her class. I remember walking into the master cabin and being blown away by its size and openness – it feels like you’re on a much larger yacht.
'The amount of space they’ve been able to create is remarkable, with features you’d usually expect from a 55m or 60m yacht. Guests can find their own space – whether relaxing alone in the bow jacuzzi, enjoying the sun deck bar, or diving into fun at the beach club with wakeboards, eFoils, SeaBobs, and diving. Plus inside you’ll find a spacious sky lounge/cinema and a beautiful main deck dining area.’
What’s your favourite spot on AIX for guests to enjoy the surroundings?
'The beach club is my top pick – sitting at water level with a cocktail or mocktail at sunset is tough to beat. My second favourite is the bow jacuzzi, tucked away from the busier parts of the yacht. It’s a peaceful spot to take in the South Pacific’s beauty, perfect for a quiet moment.'
Meet the crew
How would you describe the crew culture on board, and the kind of service guests can expect?
‘We’re a young, energetic crew who are up for adventure. Whether it’s fishing, diving, or watersports, the deck team have experience in it all, while the interior crew is on hand with your favourite drinks, snacks, or meals prepared by our chef. But at the end of the day, our main goal is to ensure guests have a memorable holiday and really experience French Polynesia. The first officer and I are from New Zealand and have been in the Pacific for a long time, and we truly love this region.’
Exploring French Polynesia's hidden gems
French Polynesia really lends itself to those with an adventurous spirit. Aside from a few tourist hot spots, the rest of the islands are untouched and the authentic culture still thrives.
Why is French Polynesia the perfect destination for AIX?
'AIX’s size [she’s 44.5m/146ft] is spot-on for French Polynesia, letting us anchor close to shore for shorter tender rides and calmer spots. Our speed means we can move between islands quickly, giving guests more time to enjoy the destinations themselves – whether that’s diving, fishing, or soaking up the stunning scenery.'
Can you share a few of your favourite spots in French Polynesia?
‘The Tuamotus. I’ve dived all over the world and I can honestly say this is the best place – I could dive the same sites for a week and never get bored. Around the Tuamotus, the outer atolls are uninhabited so you’re completely alone, which is perfect for on-water adventures.
For a mix of land and sea, I’d recommend Bora Bora and the Society Islands – you’ve still got fishing and watersports, but you can also head ashore for hiking or shopping.’
Bespoke charter experiences
If you could design the ultimate itinerary for a week aboard AIX in French Polynesia, what would it look like?
‘Meet the yacht in Bora Bora as your first stop. It’s quite a popular destination, so while we’d suggest one or two nights, some guests might want to stay longer, and we can tailor to that. From there, we’d move down to Raiatea and Taha’a and spend three days there – it’s one of the few places in the Society Islands where you can have a truly private beach setup.'
'Next, we’d steam overnight to Moorea and visit “ray city” – it’s basically a sandbar where stingrays and sharks swim around you. From there, we’d return to Tahiti, which is a great base for activities. There’s Teahupo’o – the world-famous surf break – plus island tours, canyoneering, and the pearl markets in town, which make wonderful souvenirs.
'Most of our charters are two weeks, which I’d say is the perfect length. It allows you to slow down and not feel rushed. If there’s an island you fall in love with, or a dive you want to repeat, we have the flexibility to stay longer.’
As captain, what excites you most about welcoming guests on board AIX in these islands?
'As a New Zealander, I’m thrilled to share the South Pacific – it’s my home turf. I love showing guests the vibrant local culture on the outer islands and the incredible activities like fishing, diving, snorkelling, and hiking. AIX lets us craft the perfect holiday, whether you’re after high-energy adventure or laid-back island vibes.
'It’s currently whale season and you can see them breaching right in front of you. Aside from Tonga, this is one of the only places where you can snorkel with whales, and it’s a truly life-changing moment. I like to arrange a fishing trip or a midday cruise, and when we see a whale breach we’re ready – fins on, jumping in, and swimming alongside a humpback and her calf. It’s unforgettable.
'We’re currently at the later end of the season, when the whales are more prevalent. Charters don’t usually come through at this time of year, but the weather is still as good as the main summer season, so I’d really recommend a late-season charter. This humpback whale experience is the cherry on top – seeing a mammal that large so close makes you feel incredibly small.’
Ready to set sail?
With her perfect blend of speed, comfort, and adventure, AIX is your gateway to French Polynesia’s most extraordinary experiences. Whether you dream of diving with humpback whales, exploring hidden atolls, or simply unwinding in serene seclusion, her dedicated crew are ready to welcome you aboard.
Get in touch with our team today to begin planning your next adventure.
To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter, please contact a Burgess broker. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London, Monaco, New York, Miami, Singapore or all other locations.
- Yachts, prices and availability are correct at the time of publication.
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