Carlos Alcaraz speaks about the new Sunreef catamaran he's building

Sunreef Yachts

One of the many perks that comes with writing about yachts is getting to share my love of the sea with some of the most successful people in the world. And I get to do that simply because most of the hyper-successful entertainers, athletes and captains of industry I’ve interviewed love to take breaks from their big, creative and competitive lives on board all sorts of yachts.

So, I was hardly surprised when I heard Carlos Alcaraz—the explosive young No. 1-ranked tennis player in the world—was looking for yacht that would be a fun and relaxing sanctuary to help him escape the pressures of the tour and chill with his family and friends on the ocean. And since other well-known athletes, including another legendary Spanish tennis star—Rafael Nadal—and Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonzo own Sunreef catamarans, I wasn’t surprised to hear he chose a Sunreef catamaran, either.

“I decided to order the Ultima 88 from Sunreef because I feel they are not only experts in luxury catamarans, but true trendsetters,” he says. “Building with them gives me confidence that this will be the perfect yacht to unwind and recharge. I feel that Sunreef and I share the same dynamic spirit—we are a great match."

“Lots of athletes I’ve interviewed have found that boats let them get away from the pressure, unlike anything else. Is that the case with you?" I ask Carlos during a brief interview.

“Yes. I just love boats,” he tells me. “And I’ve love the sea since I was a really little kid. From time to time I need to escape from everything. For me, being on a boat and going to the sea with my family and friends is perfect.”

I’m also not surprised that Alcaraz chose the Ultima 88. It combines sleek architecture and modern design with a top speed of 26 knots. It has plenty of space for chilling with family and friends and lots of design features, including a large garage, hydraulic platform and unfolding side terraces that provide direct access to the water and all the toys.

Meanwhile, the layout also includes accommodation for guests in four cabins, as well as a spacious owner’s suite located forward on the main deck. The full-beam master stateroom will feature abundant natural light and a large bathroom with a bathtub, creating a tranquil private retreat at sea.

Since I’ve spoken with Francis Lapp, the dynamic founder and president of Sunreef Yachts many times, I’m not surprised he convinced Carlos to build an Ultima 88, either. "Carlos is another remarkable personality joining the House of Sunreef,” Lapp says.

In fact, I love his philosophy. He’s not just building catamarans. He’s building the “House of Sunreef,” a community of visionary owners whose achievements inspire the world and bring fresh energy to the yachting lifestyle—exactly like some of the biggest fashion brands in the world do.

Watch this space.