A Twist on Yacht Ownership: Meet “Tail Lights” the 116′ Azimut

A Twist on Yacht Ownership: Meet “Tail Lights” the 116′ Azimut

By HMY Contributor   May 9, 2023

 

To own the most popular yacht in the world, you have to do things a little differently. At least, that’s what superyacht owner Lee Mandel thinks. While “Tail Lights,” a magnificent 2011 116’ Azimut Grande Motor Yacht, is the entrepreneur’s first super yacht, you wouldn’t know it. Lee has devoted himself to yacht ownership with the same level of dedication and enthusiasm he’s brought to every business endeavor he’s pursued, which is precisely what sets this charter experience apart from the rest.  

Lee at the Boat Yard with Tail Lights

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look into Lee’s unique approach to chartering and for a glimpse of what it’s like to step aboard “Tail Lights”.

“Tail Lights” at a Glance 

With five spacious ensuite staterooms, “Tail Lights” offers comfortable quarters for up to 12 guests. The bright and airy full-beam master suite features a king bed and self-service bar, along with a sprawling ensuite bathroom with double sinks, a jet rain shower, and a soaking tub. The media room, located on the main deck forward, can also be converted to a private cabin upon request. 

1 / 1 – Tail Lights resized Image Flybridge Entertainment .png

In an effort to constantly improve the guest experience, Lee pursued an extensive refit for the superyacht in 2021. She received a factory custom paint job, interior wood and floor refinishing, and a stylish update to all interior and exterior décor.  

Putting his technology background to good use, Lee also updated the AV aspects of the yacht: with his recent customizations, “Tail Lights” now boasts the most powerful sound system on any yacht. Lee even wrote software to control the sound, but passengers need not worry about any complicated systems —simply stream from your device to play the music of your choice. You’ll also enjoy Lee’s additional technical touches, including the advanced, theme-based lighting that lends itself to a sophisticated ambiance throughout the whole vessel. 

Entertainment & Socialization 

With plentiful spaces for socializing, dining, and relaxing, “Tail Lights” has everything you could want from a luxury motor yacht. A large Jacuzzi sits on the sprawling flybridge, along with a wet bar, dining sofa, and extendable dining table. Aft steps lead to a hydraulic swim platform and launch pad for watersports.  

For the adventurous clientele, there are plenty of toys: take your pick from sea scooters, snorkel gear, inflatable paddle boards, and both a 13’ and 32’ tender. 

Jetski with yacht in the background on the water

During your time aboard “Tail Lights,” you can rest assured her crew will see to it that you and your fellow guests have everything you need. Lee notes that while the vessel’s previous crew followed her previous owner when she changed hands, he was able to find a rock-solid group to run the yacht. The current captain has been with “Tail Lights" for nearly three years, while one of her two rotating chefs has been with Lee since the time of purchase. 

Chartering Details 

It’s rare that you’ll come across a yacht owner who interacts with clients themselves, but Lee favors this unconventional approach. From managing the yacht’s Instagram account and fielding inquiries himself to having debriefing meetings after each booking with Susan Harris, HMY’s Charter Director, Lee is truly committed to providing the best possible experience for anyone who charters his yacht. He takes a hands-on approach to every conceivable aspect of management, including bringing guests on board and being present for inspections.  

Lee also embraces constructive criticism and feedback from clients, using it as fuel to ensure “Tail Lights” remains the most sought-after charter yacht offering world-class amenities and an outstanding experience overall. It’s therefore no surprise that re-bookings and referrals make up a good portion of bookings.  

Tail Lights Yacht on the water

It should also come as no surprise that “Tail Lights" books up quickly, with some dates in late 2024 and even 2025 already reserved. Fortunately, there’s still availability between then and now for anyone looking for a world-class getaway at sea.  

Typically, her charter territory includes the Bahamas, specifically the Exumas, Abacos, and Eleuthera from March - October. Beginning in November, “Tail Lights” makes her way through the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands — a luxury afforded only to a select few U.S. vessels with an exclusive cruising permit, and the Caribbean including St. Maarten, St. Barts, Anguilla, Antigua, and St. Kitts.

To charter “Tail Lights” for an unforgettable adventure, contact HMY Charter Director Susan Harris today at [email protected] or 561-870-4142 today. 

 


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