How would you like to own a super-yacht?

A professional sailing couple has launched this unique enterprise, which will enable a syndicate of six people to enjoy the ultimate yachting experience: ownership of a fully crewed ocean-going luxury sailing yacht.

David and Bridget Mackwood, who live in Flax Bourton, near Bristol, were working in the Caribbean as professional yacht crew when they noticed that many super- yachts are underused by their owners and often lie idle while still incurring full running costs. So if owners are too busy to fully use their yachts - why not have several owners, make better use of the boat, and divide up those horrendous running costs among the syndicate?

The boat costs £2.52 million and can be purchased either directly or via a marine mortgage. With either option there is a £42,000 annual maintenance charge which covers management, crew, insurance and maintenance costs. In either case the purchase price will be to some extent returned (about 70% on Marine mortgage up to 100% for direct cost purchase).

In addition to a sixth of the capital cost, co-owners will pay a single annual fee to cover maintenance, crew costs, insurance and management, and After 5 years when the yacht will still be pristine, she will be sold and the proceeds returned to the syndicate members.

The yacht itself will have a master suite and three other en-suites comfortable and stylish cabins. With a crew of four she will be capable of 14 knots under power or sail. This will provide superb accommodation and service for up to eight passengers.

Bridget says "The yacht will be the ultimate in luxury cruising. We chose a catamaran for her speed, smooth level ride and spaciousness. She will appeal to anyone who enjoys relaxing afloat and seeing the world in splendid comfort."

Quantum Blue is laying the emphasis on service. In addition to the captain and chef the crew will include a first mate to accompany the owners and their guests snorkeling or on other explorations afloat and ashore and a stewardess who will look after the interior and be responsible for drinks on board.

All cabins will be equipped with flat screen TV's and DVD players. The yacht has air conditioning/heating throughout the interior. There is a large saloon with bar and luxury dining area where people can relax and enjoy each other's company.

When I spoke to Bridget this afternoon and she told me "There are a very few people in the world who can enjoy super-yacht ownership," "Quantum Blue offers a unique opportunity for more people to be part of this elite club, and provides the opportunity to own a super yacht for a sixth of the normal cost”.

"Co-ownership also removes the worry and financial implications of having a fully operational yacht lying idle for periods of the year," she said "We will also manage the yacht throughout the year which takes away a lot of the hassle of owning a boat."

I'm told that initially the catamaran will cruise The Caribbean, The Bahamas and The Mediterranean. After that, who knows?