Lauren L: 296′ Cruise Ship Conversion
Originally the cruise ship Constellation, Lauren L brings something extraordinary to the world of charter yachting. With accommodations for 40 guests, the ship has proven very popular for multi-family charters. The Select Yachts team was priveledged with an extensive tour of the four passenger decks on this six-deck marvel. We bring you an intimate view of how amazing a charter vacation aboard Lauren L can be.
Step aboard Lauren L and be transported to the classic era of private yachting, when the design brief focused on an entire season spent in luxury and comfort. Indeed, with a volume as massive as Lauren L’s, guests have all the amenities of the grand estate, plus an amazing array of tenders and toys.
Lauren L launched as cruise ship Constellation from Cassens Werft Germany in 2004. Structural integrity and fine craftsmanship throughout the build are founded on a very strong tradition. The European shipyard’s long history in ship building extends back to 1472.
In 2008, the ship was converted to carry a maximum of 40 guests in 20 lavish staterooms and 55 crew. There are six deck levels; the upper four are open to guests. Positioned on the main deck are the main dining room, private dining room, conference room, children’s playroom, library and galley.
The voluminous main rooms are beautifully designed and furnished with Old World elegance and sophistication. Yet despite the large footprint on this vast build, it is easy to find private, secluded spaces. The private dining room, which seats 12, is an excellent option for intimate affairs. The conference room is more contemporary, businesslike, and rarely of use. The solution, we are told, will be to transform the room into a state-of-the-movie theater.
The professional galley is quite an operation. There is an international staff of five chefs and two galley hands busily preparing delicacies from around the world. If guests prefer to dine in privacy, room service is available at all times.
The library, much like a London Gentlemen’s Club, is a retreat of dark woods, leather sofas, an oversized coffee table and individual computer stations, each positioned beneath a large porthole. A meticulously crafted model of Constellation, in a handsome glass case, reveals interesting aspects of the refit. For example, the sundeck is very different, with the helipad now located forward.
On the upper deck, social spaces are located aft, and 10 double suites are positioned forward. The staterooms include lounging areas with sofa beds, which is especially appealing to charter families vacationing with children. While the yacht sleeps 36 they can actually accommodate an additional four supernumerary guests traveling as staff, such as security personnel and nannies.
The main salon, completely updated about a year ago, is a nautical palette of rich blue and crisp white. Furniture is intelligently arranged for groups of varying sizes, from intimate settings for two, to plush sofa arrangements for eight or ten. A polished grand piano beckons anyone with an inspiration to play while guests relax at the bar and enjoy the music.
The master compartment, VIP suite and three junior suites are located on the bridge deck. Notable features in the master include a sizeable private balcony, a large walk-in closet with racks for about 500 shoes, a marble bath with sumptuous Jacuzzi, and a fully equipped office area.
In the wellness facility, located forward on the sundeck, state-of-the-art equipment is just the beginning. The interior space includes a sauna, steam room, beauty salon with two beauticians, massage room with a therapist specializing in Thai and deep tissue massage, and a huge double-room gym with fitness instructor, should the guests not bring their own. The fitness spa is one example of the many features that mark the difference between Lauren L and conventional charter yachts.
The sundeck spa pool and bar are conveniently positioned just outside the wellness center. Here the sweeping deck space is uncluttered, even with several sofas and sun loungers for 12. When cleared, the sundeck can accommodate over 80 people for a static event in port. Plus, soaring six decks up, the view is jaw dropping.
Lauren L has a fully stocked toy chest. There are two lifeboats, one fitted out for guest use, and a big variety of tenders. There are two 24-foot bow door catamarans for easy access to the beach, and four Jet skis. There’s a G-23 specialist wakeboard boat with bass tanks, and a 45-knot carbon fiber guest tender for comfortable longer distance transport. According to the crew, the favorite toy of guests of any age is the Flyboard. We are told it is super fun, and apparently easier to master than it looks. We are also told that the submarine is yet to be bought.
After talking with a few of the 45-member crew, it is easy to understand why many of the senior crew have been on board for years. Lauren L is a floating resort, and while the crew work hard, they can play hard too. Most have at least tried the Flyboard, along with many of the other toys and gear the yacht carries. In addition to silver service qualifications, there’s a twinkle in the eye. In equal measure, they are gracious and respectful, lighthearted and fun.
It is not surprising that Lauren L does a lot of multi-family charters. In addition to 20 regal staterooms, the range of amenities is perfectly suited to two or three families vacationing together. Little ones stay happy with toys and games in the brightly colored playroom while adults enjoy an hour or two in the first-class spa. For those who can’t stay out of the office, the business facilities are top notch. With an LOA of 296’ and four passenger decks, everyone can find a space to suit their mood. We rate Lauren L outstanding!
Contact Select Yachts for information and to book Lauren L for a spectacular Caribbean vacation.
