The Ultimate Escape: 21 Luxury Domestic Destinations

It’s time to explore well beyond the obvious with our heady guide to luxury domestic travel.

By Natasha Dragun And Richard Clune 02/10/2020

There’s an air of positivity across New South Wales and Queensland this afternoon following the announcement that border restrictions between the two states will be lifted on November 1 (community transmission rates dependent).

Elsewhere, Tasmania will open to SA, Queensland, WA, NT and the ACT from October 26 (NSW “pending”), while there’s also confirmed plans for a trans-Tasman travel bubble and what is initial one-way movement into NSW and NT for New Zealanders coming from unaffected areas.

Time, then, to finalise that future luxury escape – easily done with this alluring set of heightened holidays and experiences from across ANZ.

Island Idyll

A wild and wonderful slip of land in Tasmania’s D’Entrecasteaux Channel, Satellite Island can only be reached by boat from neighbouring Bruny Island or helicopter from Hobart. On arrival, discover the only companions are your butler and resident deer, sea eagles and free-range chickens. Daily diversions emphasise the outdoors: kayaking, fishing, snorkelling, plus foraging for oysters and sea urchins. Such a bounty is best enjoyed fireside on the jetty, home to two nautical-chic bedrooms that open to the ocean. The main Summer House has three additional accommodations, designed with covetable objects and items salvaged among the island’s 30 hectares.

satelliteisland.com.au

Dinner With MONA’s David Walsh

Millionaire philanthropist and self-proclaimed “maths nerd”, David Walsh is credited with putting Tasmania back on the travel map. Since his drama-filled Hobart gallery, MONA, opened in 2011, it has become one of the most visited art institutions in the country, and one of the most discussed in the world. Walsh is a difficult man to get hold of. Unless, that is, you book the ‘Dinner With David’ offering from Cultural Attractions of Australia. The $50,000 per person price tag gets you private jet transfers to Hobart; when you touch down, Walsh welcomes you with a lavish meal shared at MONA’s Source restaurant. You’ll sleep soundly in one of the property’s riverside Pavilions and wake to a packed day of exclusive experiences: a curator-led tour of the gallery, lunch in new dining room Faro, a behind-the-scenes glimpse into winemaking at on-site Moorilla Estate, and perhaps even a hit of tennis with Walsh himself.

culturalattractionsofaustralia.com; jacadatravel.com

COMO The Treasury, WA

We’re going to drop this and walk away—COMO The Treasury is the best metropolitan hotel in Australia. Sure, it’s in Perth and that’s arguably to its detriment, though also know that this far-flung capital has found a sense of itself, and elevated luxe, in the last five years, with more to offer than ever before—especially its dining scene. Regardless, if staying at The Treasury you don’t actually need to leave this property of incredible allure—an elegant architectural wonder that delivers individual, light-filled designer rooms, Shambhala spa, impeccable pool and gym, and award-winning fine dining at Wildflower restaurant. In the State Buildings that The Treasury forms part of, there’s also Thai heat at David Thompson’s
Long Chim and leathery (in a good way) basement bar Halford.

comohotels.com

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, NSW

 The appeal here is far-reaching—a nature escape that doesn’t skimp on the luxury, a valley steeped in incredible natural history (Darwin made a stop here to study things in the early 1800s) and the fact that there’s no phone reception. Joyous. The famed award-winning eco-retreat offers a chance to truly escape (hello 2,800 hectares to explore) without ever forgoing necessities such as fine dining, private pools, fireplaces, spa, yoga, and tightly held guest numbers.

oneandonlyresorts.com

Matakauri Lodge, NZ

If you haven’t, you really should—Matakauri is one of the world’s great ‘lodges’, held in the cradle of New Zealand’s impressive The Remarkables ranges on the gentle shores of Lake Wakatipu. It’s located just 10 minutes from Queenstown and not far from the region’s best slopes—though given the levels of service, accommodation and in-house spa, it’s sometimes too difficult to hit the piste, even on a bluebird day.

robertsonlodges.com

Exclusive Robb Report Offer: Stay four nights, pay for three, and enjoy a suite category upgrade when you mention Robb Report on booking.*

Flights Of Fancy

From rock to reef, rainforest to outback, Australia stands as one of the world’s most diverse countries. Get a taste with the Great Australian Air Tour, a 12-day private plane excursion with Bill Peach Journeys. The sky-high survey is Australia in a snapshot, taking guests from Kakadu to Uluru, with Broome and Birdsville in between. When not airborne, the intimate group cruises through gorges, dines under the stars, bathes in remote waterfalls and sips champagne as the sun sets.

billpeachjourneys.com.au

Dovecote, NSW

A 60-hectare working farm in Gerringong might not be the most likely location for two high-drama, architect-designed lodges. But here, on NSW’s South Coast, you’ll find The Headland and The Range, a pair of gasp-inducing villas casting shadows over Werri Beach. Together known as Dovecote, the accommodations—replete with designer fireplaces and outdoor cinemas—are best accessed via helicopter from Sydney. When you land, organise multi-course meals and spa treatments, or take a coastal walk into the sleepy town of Kiama.

dovecote.com.au

Exclusive Robb Report Offer: Receive a $50 spa credit, per guest, to use during the course of a stay by mentioning Robb Report on booking.*

Pretty Beach House, NSW

A short meander north from Sydney—and proof the Central Coast means more than tradies and Jennifer Hawkins. This hilltop guest house is a wonderful weekend indulgence — a  place of easy warmth built around inclusive (impressive) meals, just four ‘rooms’ (we’d suggest the two-storey Retreat), incredible views and a chance to explore the area’s magical beaches or trek Bouddi Peninsula. Also… free mini-bar! Grab a seaplane transfer and enjoy.

prettybeachhouse.com.au

Rowley Shoals, WA

The kaleidoscopic reefs of the Rowley Shoals—a necklace of coral atolls 300 kilometres west of Broome—are home to giant purple-lipped clams, iridescent starfish, humpback whales and schools of tropical fish. Your chariot here? The 36-passenger True North, an expedition ship as intimate as it is immaculate. And when not below water, take to the skies in the craft’s private helicopter.

truenorth.com.au

Southern Exposure

A private enclave collocated with historic Mount Lofty Estate, newcomer Sequoia (opening this September) promises to inject the Adelaide Hills with an acute sense of contemporary Australian style. Here, 14 exclusive villas include sandstone fireplaces, sunken lounges, cantilevered balconies and private pools. Stroll to the original homestead and hotel where the three-hatted restaurant and spa await.

sequoialodge.com.au

Exclusive Robb Report Offer: Stay four nights and only pay for three by mentioning Robb Report on booking*

Luxury Train Travel

Let the rails rock you to sleep in the Chairman’s Carriage, a private charter addition to either The Ghan or Indian Pacific trains. Whether you’re traversing Australia from east to west or north to south, these outback explorations are completely beguiling—even more so in your plush moving cocoon, all leather and quartzite, polished wood and brass. The carriage has space to sleep eight, with a personal attendant on-call to mix cocktails in the lounge, organise dining experiences and facilitate off-train excursions.

journeybeyondrail.com.au

Byron’s Best

Sure, opt for a private rental up the hill… or enjoy the direct beach access and relaxed sense of luxury that continues to cloak this Byron standout. Legend has it that the grounds of the ’60s Spanish mission-style property were designed by Salvador Dalí. While we’ve never quite been convinced, what we do know is that Raes remains a byword for heightened levels of North Coast cool—an experience that’s as easy as it is chic, built around seven unique rooms (villa, two penthouses and four luxury suites), impressive spa, pool, fresh in-house dining menus, deep cellar and easy-going service that’s always on-point.

raes.com.au

Hermes Estate, Gleniffer, NSW

Prefer to holiday and socially distance at the same time? Freshly minted Hermes Estate is available for exclusive rental only, with all four guests given free run of the entire two-hectare property on the banks of northern NSW’s Never Never River. The only other companions here are the staff: butler, chef, spa therapist, chauffeur. The lush country setting is the perfect complement to the lodging’s French-inspired décor—think opulent antiques, chandeliers, first-edition tomes in the library and original artwork. It’s a 45-minute drive from Coffs Harbour, though we recommend making the most of the private helipad to transfer in style.

hermesestate.com

Sleep Under The Outback Stars

The Flinders Ranges—450km north of Adelaide—is all red peaks, gorges and valleys, a place where striated rock formations create an enormous natural amphitheatre. It’s exclusively yours on a Helivista Heli-Swag expedition, created in partnership with Rawnsley Park Station. Your chopper zips to the top of the Chace Range, leaving you to enjoy a camp-fire dinner amid the sunset. Then it’s time to snuggle into swags and ogle an outback sky so dazzling it appears doused with glitter.

helivista.com.au; rawnsleypark.com.au

A Need For Speed

Fancy revving up a Ferrari 488 GTB? Or a Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4? These are among the supercars in the Prancing Horse portfolio, and you’ll drive them both (and others) on the scenic 200-kilometre journey north from Sydney to the Hunter Valley. NSW’s premier wine region is known for its bold chardonnay, sémillon and shiraz varietals, which you’ll sip over lunch at the applauded Muse Restaurant, on the estate of Hungerford Hill. The experience will re-launch in 2021, though if you can’t wait, supercar food-and-wine tours around the Yarra Valley are available in November.

prancinghorse.com.au

Huka Lodge, NZ

House parties are encouraged in Huka Lodge’s Alan Pye Cottage, a four-person retreat on the Waikato River. But you’ll want this space all to yourself. Neighbouring Huka Falls on New Zealand’s North Island, the accommodation features a palette of cedar, stone, teal and turquoise. Your private enclave includes indoor and outdoor fireplaces, an infinity pool and spa, all within seven hectares of manicured gardens that also host the main lodge and eight-person Owner’s Cottage.

hukalodge.co.nz

Exclusive Robb Report Offer: Receive a free lunch for two, replete with a bottle of exclusive sparkling New Zealand wine, when you mention Robb Report on booking.

Lizard Island Resort, QLD

Australia’s northernmost island beach hotel, Lizard Island Resort, is as enchanting as Great Barrier Reef retreats get. The high point—quite literally—is The Pavilion, a stilted glass-and-steel villa clinging to a ridge overlooking the Coral Sea. You’ll want to linger on the wraparound deck, just steps from a private pool. Tear yourself away to charter the resort’s yacht for dive excursions, strap in for helicopter rides to ogle remote rock art, or simply stroll to the sand for an intimate beachside barbecue.

lizardisland.com.au

A Feast Fit For Cleopatra

It’s not every day you get the chance to dine metres from a priceless work of art. But for $39,000, you and seven friends can do just that, in a room housing the National Gallery of Victoria’s most sought-after painting. Italian artist Giambattista Tiepolo’s The Banquet of Cleopatra draws thousands to this Melbourne institution every year. But only 16 eyes will scrutinise the masterpiece while your party enjoys live music and a memorable meal.

culturalattractionsofaustralia.com

West Side Story

This WA gem is held tight by locals —Injidup Spa Retreat a relatively secluded and somewhat unknown luxury property of private villas framed by scrubby national park and the deep blues of the Indian Ocean. The setting and views are both entrée and main here—a stay cloaked in a sense of ease where life doesn’t move far beyond gazing across the immediate and expansive water. Plunge pool, BBQ, fireplace, private deck and the area’s best spa (note, there are just two treatment rooms) are all on offer—so too the unique vineyards and powerful surf of the Margaret River region.

injidupsparetreat.com.au

Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island

A crescent-shaped drop of basalt in the Tasman Sea, 600 kilometres east of Sydney, UNESCO-listed Lord Howe is as remote as it is ravishing. The island’s Jurassic landscapes of soaring sea cliffs and tangled jungle are among Australia’s most important bird habitats, while the lagoon and reef are home to bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead turtles, Galapagos sharks and humpback whales. Make your base the newly renovated Capella Lodge, where rooms overlook unspoiled beaches backdropped by the jagged crest of Mount Gower. There’s no phone reception, limited wi-fi and a cap on visitor numbers. The only thing to do is switch off and enjoy paradise to yourself.

lordhowe.com

Spanish Flare

Head to the hills, specifically Coopers Shoot outside Byron Bay, and a unique property that brings a sense of Spain (without being naff) to the region. From the husband and wife team who delivered agritourism hotspot The Farm, Tom and Emma Lane, this luxurious retreat comprises three main buildings available for exclusive rental. Interiors and exteriors ooze rustic European designer charm—replete with pool, 48 tranquil hectares
and more.

therangebyronbay.com.au

*Offer valid until June 30, 2021.

Upgrade dependant on availability.

 

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Escape from the Ordinary

Ponant, the luxury cruise line known for its meticulously planned itineraries and high-end service, ups the ante on their upcoming European Journeys that promise an unrivalled exploration of the Mediterranean.

By Robb Report Team 19/02/2024

Not all cruises are created equally. Ponant, the luxury cruise line known for its meticulously planned itineraries and high-end service, ups the ante on their upcoming European Journeys that promise an unrivalled exploration of the Mediterranean. From the stunning Amalfi Coast to the pristine Greek Islands, the narrow Corinth Canal to the picturesque Dalmatian coast, historic Istanbul and beguiling Malaga, each destination is a unique adventure waiting to be unravelled. With Ponant, these aren’t just locations on a map; they’re experiences that come alive with the intimate knowledge and insight that their expert guides provide.

Ponant’s luxury cruises are renowned for their individuality, with no two journeys the same. This is not by chance. Itineraries are scrupulously designed to ensure that each passenger is left with a feeling of having embarked on a journey unlike any other.

Athens-Venise. Photograph by N.Matheus. ©PONANT

In 2025, their fleet will set sail for a combined 56 departures from March to October, exploring the dreamy locales of Greece and the Greek Islands, Malta, Italy (including Venice and Sicily), Croatia, France, Turkey, Spain and Portugal. These European Journeys offer an intimate encounter with the Mediterranean, its people and culture. As you cruise in luxury, you’ll dive deep into the heart of each destination, exploring historic sites, engaging with locals, sampling scrumptious cuisine and soaking in the vibrant atmospheres.

The company’s small, sustainable ships, which can accommodate from as few as 32 to 264 guests, have the exclusive ability to sail into ports inaccessible to larger cruise liners, affording privileged entry into some of the world’s most treasured alcoves. Picture sailing under London’s iconic Tower Bridge, crossing the Corinth Canal, or disembarking directly onto the sidewalk during ports of call in culturally rich cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, Nice and Venice, among others.

Photo by Tamar Sarkissian. ©PONANT

This singular closeness is further enriched by destination experts who unravel the tapestry of each locale’s history and traditions.

Onboard their luxurious ships, every guest is a VIP and treated to refined service and amenities akin to sailing on a private yacht. Whether at sea or ashore, their destination experts guarantee a fascinating experience, immersing you in the rich cultural and historical diversity of each region.

Indulge in the finest gastronomy at sea, inspired by none other than gastronomic virtuoso and Ponant partner, Alain Ducasse. Each voyage offers an expertly crafted dining experience, from a-la-carte meals with perfectly matched wines by the onboard Sommelier at dinner and lunch, to a French-inspired buffet breakfast, featuring all the favourite pastries, fresh bread and quality produce.

Chef Mickael Legrand. Photograph by NickRains. ©PONANT

For a more intimate discovery, consider Le Ponant, with its 16 high-class staterooms and suites—perfect for private charter—sailing eight exclusive routes between Greece and Croatia, offering guests unparalleled experiences both onboard and ashore. Ponant’s commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences extends beyond itineraries. Aboard their ships, the luxury is in every detail. Unwind in opulent cabins and suites, each offering private balconies and breathtaking views of the azure water and destinations beyond.

Ponant’s upcoming European Journeys are more than just cruises—they’re your passport to a world of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and unrivalled luxury. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on the voyage of a lifetime: the Mediterranean is calling.

To book European 2025 sailings visit au.ponant.com; call 1300 737 178 (AU) or 0800 767 018 (NZ) or contact your preferred travel agent.

 

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Saint Laurent Just Opened a New Bookstore in Paris. Here’s a Look Inside.

The chic new outpost is located on the city’s arty Left Bank.

By Rachel Cormack 14/02/2024

Saint Laurent is taking over even more of Paris.

The French fashion house, which only just opened an epic new flagship on Champs-Élysées, has launched a chic new bookstore on the Left Bank. Located in the 7th arrondissement, Saint Laurent Babylone is a mecca of art, music, literature, and, of course, fashion.

The new outpost is a tribute to the connection that Yves Saint Laurent and partner Pierre Bergé had to the Rue Babylone, according to Women’s Wear Daily. (In 1970, the pair moved to a 6,500-square-foot duplex on the street.) It is also inspired by the house’s original ready-to-wear boutique, Saint Laurent Rive Guache, which opened in the 6th arrondissement in 1966.

The exposed concrete in contrasted by sleek marble accents. SAINT LAURENT

With a minimalist, art gallery-like aesthetic, the space is anchored by a hefty marble bench and large black shelves. The raw, textured concrete on the walls is juxtaposed by a soft blue and white rug, a wooden Pierre Jeanneret desk, and sleek Donald Judd stools.

The wares within Saint Laurent Babylone are the most important part, of course. Curated by Saint Laurent’s creative director Anthony Vaccarello, the collection includes everything from photos by British artist Rose Finn-Kelcey to books published by Saint Laurent itself. Some tomes on offer are so rare that white gloves are required for handling.

The store also offers an enviable selection of records that are no longer being pressed. Highlights include Sade’s Promise, Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love, and the debut studio album of electronic band Kraftwerk.

Other notable items on the shelves include Leica cameras, chocolates made in collaboration with pastry chef François Daubinet, prints by Juergen Teller, and brass skull sculptures. You’ll also find an assortment of YSL merch, including pens, lighters, and cups.

To top it off, Saint Laurent Babylone will double as an event space, hosting live music sessions, DJ sets, book readings, and author signings over the coming months.

Saint Laurent’s latest endeavor isn’t exactly surprising. With Vaccarello at the helm, the Kering-owned fashion house has entered new cultural realms. Only last year, the label established a film production company and debuted its first movie at Cannes.

The space is fitted with a Pierre Jeanneret desk and Donald Judd stools.
SAINT LAURENT

Perhaps Saint Laurent film reels and movie posters will soon be available at Babylone, too.

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The Best Watches at the Grammys, From Maluma’s Jacob & Co. to Jon Batiste’s Vacheron Constantin

Music’s biggest names sported some outstanding watches on Sunday evening.

By Rachel Mccormack 08/02/2024

Weird yet wonderful watches punctuated this year’s Grammys.

The woman of the moment, Taylor Swift, who made history by winning Album of the Year for an unprecedented fourth time, wore an unconventional Lorraine Schwartz choker watch to the annual awards ceremony on Sunday night. That was just the tip of the horological iceberg, though.

Colombian singer-songwriter Maluma elevated a classic Dolce & Gabbana suit with a dazzling Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon and a pair of custom, diamond-encrusted Bose earbuds, while American musician Jon Batiste topped off a stylish Versace ensemble with a sleek Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon. Not to be outdone, rapper Busta Rhymes busted out a rare Audemars Piguet Royal Oak for the occasion.

There was more understated wrist candy on display, too, such as Jack Antonoff’s Cartier Tank LC and Noah Kahan’s Panerai Luminor Quaranta BiTempo.

For the rest of the best watches we saw on the Grammys 2024 red carpet, read on.

Maluma: Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon

Maluma busted out some truly spectacular bling for this year’s Grammys. The Colombian singer-songwriter paired a classic Dolce & Gabbana suit with a dazzling Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon and a pair of custom, diamond-encrusted Bose earbuds. The sculptural wrist candy sees a four-arm movement floating in front of a breathtaking dial adorned with no less than 257 rubies. For added pizzaz, the lugs of the 18-karat rose-gold case are invisibly set with 80 baguette-cut white diamonds. Limited to just nine examples, the rarity is priced at $1.5 million.

Asake: Hublot Big Bang Essential Grey

Nigerian singer-songwriter Asake may not have won the Grammy for Best African Music Performance for “Amapiano,” but did wear a winning Hublot Big Bang at Sunday’s proceedings. Released in 2023, the Essential Grey model is made purely of titanium for a sleek, uniform feel. The 42 mm timepiece was limited to just 100 pieces and cost $37,000 a pop.

John Legend: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding

Multihyphenate John Legend wore a legendary Audemars Piguet with silky Saint Laurent on Sunday evening. The self-winding Royal Oak in question features a 34 mm black ceramic case, a black grande tapisserie dial, and striking pink gold accents. The watchmaker’s signature is also displayed in gold under the sapphire crystal. The piece will set you back $81,000.

Jon Batiste: Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon

American musician Jon Batiste received four nominations but no wins at this year’s Grammys. The “Butterfly” singer can take solace in the fact that he looked ultra-sharp in Versace and Vacheron Constantin. A tribute to the spirit of travel, the Overseas Tourbillon features a 42.5 mm white-gold case, a bezel set with 60 baguette-cut diamonds, and a blue dial featuring a dazzling tourbillon cage inspired by the Maltese cross. Price upon request, naturally.

Fireboy DML: Cartier Santos

Fireboy DML’s outfit was straight fire on Sunday night. The Nigerian singer paired an MCM wool jacket with a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, several iced-out rings, and a sleek Cartier Santos. The timepiece features a steel case, a graduated blue dial with steel sword-shaped hands, and a seven-sided crown with synthetic faceted blue spinel.

Noah Kahan: Panerai Luminor Quaranta BiTempo

Best New Artist nominee Noah Kahan wore one of Panerai’s best new watches to Sunday’s festivities. The Luminor Quaranta BiTempo features a 40 mm polished steel case and a black dial with luminous numerals and hour markers, a date display at 3 o’clock, and a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock. The timepiece can be yours for $14,000.

Busta Rhymes: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore

Legendary rapper Busta Rhymes busted out a chic Audemars Piguet for this year’s Grammys. The Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in question is distinguished by a 42 mm rose-gold case and a matching pink méga tapisserie dial with an outer flange for the tachymeter scale. The face is fitted with three black subdials, large black numerals, and a black date display at 3 o’clock. You can expect to pay around $61,200 for the chronograph on the secondary market.

Jack Antonoff: Cartier Tank Louis Cartier

Producer of the year Jack Antonoff took to the red carpet with a stylish Cartier on his wrist. The Tank Louis Cartier in question appears to be a large 33.7 mm example that features an 18-carat rose-gold case, a silvered dial with black Roman numerals and blued steel hands, a beaded crown set with a sapphire cabochon, and a brown alligator strap. It’ll set you back $19,900.

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This 44-Foot Carbon-Fiber Speedboat Can Rocket to 177 KMPH

The new Mayla GT is available with a range of different powertrains, too.

By Rachel Cormack 03/02/2024

We knew the Mayla GT would be one of the most exciting boats at Boot Düsseldorf, but a deep dive into the specs shows it could be downright revolutionary.

The brainchild of German start-up Mayla, the 44-footer brings you the blistering performance of a speedboat and the luxe amenities of a motor yacht in one neat carbon-fiber package.

Inspired by the go-fast boats of the 1970s and ‘80s, the GT sports an angular, retro-futuristic body and the sleek lines of a rocket ship. Tipping the scales at just 4500 kilograms, the lightweight design features a deep-V hull with twin transversal steps and patented Petestep deflectors that help it slice through the waves with ease. In fact, Mayla says the deflectors decrease energy usage by up to 35 percent while ensuring a more efficient planing.

The range-topping GT can reach 185 kph. MAYLA

The GT is also capable of soaring at breakneck speeds, with the option of a gas, diesel, electric, or hybrid powertrain. The range-topping GTR-R model packs dual gas-powered engines that can churn out 3,100 hp for a top speed of more than 100 knots (185 kph). At the other, more sustainable end of the spectrum, the E-GT is fitted with an electric powertrain that can produce 2,200 horses for a max speed of 50 knots. The hybrid E-GTR pairs that same electric powertrain with a 294 kilowatt diesel engine for a top speed of 60 knots (111 km/h/69 mph). (The GT in the water at Boot sported two entry-level V8s good for 650 hp and a top speed of over 70 knots.)

The GT is suitable for more than just high-speed jaunts, of course. The multipurpose cockpit, which can accommodate up to eight passengers, features a sundeck with sliding loungers, a wet bar and BBQ, and a foldaway dining table for alfresco entertaining. Further toward the stern, a beach club sits atop a garage with an electric transom door.

The garage has an electric transom door. MAYLA

The GT is even fit for overnight stays. Below deck lies a cabin with a double bed, sofa, wardrobe, vanity, and en suite. You can also expect a high-tech entertainment system with TVs and premium audio.

As for price, the GT with the entry-level powertrain will cost between $2.7 million and $2.9, depending on the final configuration. (You can fine-tune the layout, hull color, and interiors, naturally.) Interested buyers can set up a sea trial with Mayla, with test-drives set to begin this spring in Europe.

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Red Centre

First Nations artist Shaun Daniel Allen joins forces with Chopard to create a timepiece inspired by the Australian landscape.

By Horacio Silva 29/01/2024

Shaun Daniel Allen does not look like your typical collaborator on a prestige watch. For one, Shal, as he prefers to be known (“There are many Shauns but only one Shal,” he explains), is more heavily tattooed than your average roadie. His youthful appearance, bad-boy ink and all, belies his 38 years and leads to a disconnect. 

He recounts being recognised on the street recently by a journalist, who, unable to remember his name, shouted out, “Chopard!” “I was with a friend,” Shal says, holding court in his apartment in Sydney’s inner city, “and he’s, like, ‘What the hell? Does that happen to you often?’”

Perhaps because of his body art, he reasons, “People don’t put me and Chopard together.” It’s not hard to understand the confusion, Shal adds; even he was taken aback when Chopard reached out to him about a potential collaboration a little more than a year ago. “When I first went in to see them, I was, like, I don’t know if I’m your guy. I’m not used to being in those rooms and having those conversations.”

He’ll have to adapt quickly to his new reality. Last month Chopard released Shal’s interpretation of the Swiss brand’s storied Alpine Eagle model, which in itself was a redo of the St. Moritz, the first watch creation by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele (now Co-President of Chopard) in the late 1970s. 

Previewed at Sydney’s About Time watch fair in September, to not insignificant interest, and officially known as the Alpine Eagle Sunburnt, the exclusive timepiece—issued in a limited edition of 20—arrives as a stainless steel 41 mm with a 60-hour power reserve and a burnt red dial that brings to mind the searing Outback sun. Its see-through caseback features one of Shal’s artworks painted on sapphire glass.

When the reputable Swiss luxury brand approached Shal, they already had the red dial—a nod to the rich ochre hues of the Australian soil at different times of the day and gradated so that the shades become darker around the edges—locked in as a lure for Australian customers.

Shal was charged with designing an artful caseback and collectible hand-painted sustainable wooden case. After presenting a handful of paintings, each with his signature abstract motifs that pertain to indigenous emblems, tattoos and music, both parties landed on a serpentine image that evoked the coursing of rivers. “I have been painting a lot of water in this last body of work and the image we chose refers to the rivers at home,” he says, alluding to formative years spent at his grandfather’s, just outside of Casino.

It says a lot about Chopard, Shal points out, that they wanted to donate to a charity of his choosing. “Like everything else on this project,” he explains, “they were open to listening and taking new ideas on board and it actually felt like a collaboration, like they weren’t steering me into any corner.”

In another nice touch, a portion of the proceeds from sales of the watch will go to funding programs of the Ngunya Jarjum Aboriginal Corporation—an organisation, established in 1995 by Bundjalung elders, whose work Shal saw firsthand after the 2022 eastern Australia flood disasters ravaged their area. “Seeing Ngunya Jarjum suffer from the floods,” he says, “and knowing how much they do for the community on Bundjalung Country was heartbreaking. I want to see Bundjalung families thriving and supported.”

So what’s it been like for this booster of Australian waterways to be swimming in the luxury end of the pool? “I’ve done a few things with brands,” he offers, referring to the Louis Vuitton project earlier this year at an art gallery in Brisbane, “but nothing on this scale. It’s definitely fancier than I’m used to but I’m not complaining.” Neither are watch aficionados.

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