On the Water with Sarah Klug from Ocean Independence

Sarah Klug, yachting journey began aboard superyachts in the Med and Caribbean - and took her from New Zealand through the South Pacific to Asia and Italy. After years of exploring the world at sea, she turned her experience toward the business side of yachting, working across the UK and New Zealand before joining Ocean Independence Auckland. Part of a leading global yacht company, Ocean Independence offers expertise in both charter and sales, and Sarah now plays a key role in supporting both. The Auckland office recently introduced the stylish Sunreef catamarans to the New Zealand market. With her insider perspective and passion for life afloat, Sarah brings a truly global and grounded view to our second On the Water conversation. 

What’s a favourite destination or hidden gem you’ve discovered during your sailing career - and what makes it special or memorable?

My favourite anchorage is in Bora Bora: Taha’a – Coral Gardens / Motu Tautau (West of Taha’a)A  stunning, protected anchorage near the Le Taha’a Resort with excellent shelter from easterly winds. It sits just inside the reef, facing Bora Bora in the distance. From here you can swim or drift snorkel between two motus with vibrant coral and tropical fish it’s beautiful and called the Coral Gardens (Jardin de Corail).

For me the hidden gem of yachting would have to be the night sky especially in a balmy climate. Whether it is a secluded bay with stars all around or being docked in a port with the charm of lights ashore and from other yachts coupled with stars. My secret love is going to the bow at night stretching and star gazing under a blanket of sky. Its special because it is something I virtually ever do at home and I enjoy having time to reflect and wind down at the end of the day.   

Where’s your go to destination for a holiday outside New Zealand? 

A destination I adore is French Polynesia. Close enough to NZ yet far away enough for that tropical break. For me it has always been the one destination where the experience begins when you step on the plane with the airline – Air Tahiti Nui. I find French Polynesia is a sensory experience the temperature, fragrances, food, water and sea life make any visit magical. There are also lovely cultural influences with the Polynesians and the French as well as the exotic pearls and the art by Gaugain. From resorts with exclusive restaurants to remote atolls when you are on a yacht you can have the best of both.

We’re excited to share that the stunning Sunreef 80 catamaran S/Y BUNDALONG is available for charter in French Polynesia this August, as well as from 15 September – 5 October; perfectly timed for the New Zealand school holidays. This idyllic destination offers something for everyone: breathtaking scenery, warm tropical waters, exquisite cuisine, and plenty of onboard toys for the active (and the not-so-active) holidaymaker. With four beautifully appointed guest cabins -each with its own ensuite - BUNDALONG accommodates up to eight guests in absolute comfort, supported by a dedicated crew of four, including a talented onboard chef.

What’s a must-have on board for you -  something you wouldn’t set off without?

Goggles - I love getting in the water and sea swimming, this is wonderful from a yacht because there are always new stretches of coast to explore. Swim ashore, swim around the rocks, swim beside a kayaker, swim before breakfast. For me the simple joy of swimming is very satisfying.  

Do you have a favourite on-board meal or recipe that’s simple but always hits the spot?

Ceviche would have to be an absolute favourite, there’s nothing like fresh fish from the sea to the table.

Are there any brands - that you always trust for quality and performance on the water?

I love a good Sunreef catamaran for their laidback luxury living, vast spaces and design that creates a strong connection to the water. The Sunreef Catamarans are excellent as they come in a range of sizes, and the 50-60ft ones can be owner operated or crewed. They allow you to access the lagoons of the South Pacific and can facilitate greater engagement with the underwater wildlife as they can anchor closer in shore. Lots of superyachts are more formal than what we are used to here that is where the catamarans are great. It’s luxury, freedom, and play - wrapped into one unforgettable experience.

What’s one small detail that elevates the experience on board - something your guests or clients always comment on?

This would have to be the crew. It is their attention to detail, care and nurturing of the clients that makes all the difference. They come with their talents and skills and these can really make a charter something special. They can also be very good at keeping active children and adults busy.

Ocean Independence is one of the world’s leading superyacht companies, offering a full range of services including yacht sales, charter, and management. With a global network and deep industry expertise, they specialise in delivering tailored experiences both on and off the water.

Reach out to Sarah for further information if you are after a holiday of the lifetime sklug@ocyachts.com

Stay tuned for the next edition of On the Water, where we’ll bring you more stories from those who live - and design - for life at sea.