ALMA

ALMA is a catamaran of recent build, with the steady, level footing that makes a twin-hulled yacht so easy to live aboard. There is room to spread out: a saloon for cool, shaded hours, open decks for the sun, and a flybridge from which to watch the coastline slip past. She cruises only in Greek waters, which suits her well. Island-hopping by catamaran means easing into quieter bays, anchoring close to shore and waking each morning somewhere new, while a crew attends to the details.

Life aboard turns naturally towards the sea. A hydraulic aft platform and a swim platform make getting in and out of the water effortless, and a deck shower rinses away the salt afterwards. For those who like to explore, there is a Seabob and a Seascooter for gliding beneath the surface, Snorkeling equipment for the clear shallows, a kayak and a SUP for unhurried paddles along the shore, and fishing gear for anyone who prefers a line over the side. The tender carries everyone ashore to a beach or a harbour.

Inside, she is cool and well ordered. Full air conditioning runs throughout, and every cabin has its own hairdryer, a small courtesy that guests soon appreciate. She is well equipped for entertaining: an ice maker keeps drinks properly chilled, a wine cellar holds bottles as they should be kept, and a Nespresso machine sees to the first coffee of the morning. A water maker keeps fresh water plentiful between ports, so a long shower after a swim never needs to be rationed.

Music follows you around the yacht. A Bose sound system and a stereo serve the saloon, the flybridge has its own HiFi, and an indoor and outdoor audio system links it all, with iPod and device hookups for your own playlists. Evenings might bring a film on the saloon TV, or a quieter one in the master cabin with its own TV/DVD. WiFi keeps guests connected when they wish to be, and there is even a printer aboard. She suits a family or a group of friends who want comfort without fuss.