The Katania megayacht, which was once chartered by Hollywood actress Hilary Swank and her husband Chad Lowe, costs less than $3000 per day, all thanks to the recession. Normally, it charges an additional $49,500 charter fee for one week. Amid the global downturn, prices for the luxurious megayachts are plunging. Seattle-based mega-yacht rental business CEO Expeditions usually charges about $100,000 a week for their 100+ foot yachts, but due to the recession taking its toll on the megayacht industry, they have slashed prices heavily. People on board the yachts will now need to pay only for the running of the yacht. Talking about the Katania, this 100-foot vessel costs $2950 per day for four people. A maximum of six can go on board ($450 extra per person). For that price, they get a range of lavish amenities, including premium wines, gourmet food prepared by a private chef, amenities such as kayaks, hot tub, fishing/crabbing/shrimping equipment and a 30′ Whaler.

Each stateroom inside the megayacht offers a luxurious first class experience. The layout of the Katania gives guests plenty of private spaces. The company’s owner, Bruce Milne, said...

Travel is down, agents and brokers need deals, so rather than just a few full price charters, we decided to stay busy, put more people to work and help island tourism by doing charters at cost.

Via: CNN458903