A Business Model

How did you step into the world of yachts from the world of glamour?

It all happened suddenly. I’m all about challenges. This was a business model I took up and I figured it’s tough but it’s also something I am passionate about. I am a traveller and take off on exotic holidays whenever time permits. I am,of course,doing it on my own with a little help from my husband. I am the face of the company,so it’s a challenging proposition. I’ve been a model,now I’m acting in films too — and the luxury yacht business is a big part of my life.

Has yachting really taken off in India? Has the luxury consumer understood the significance of the business?

The way I see it,yachting is gaining popularity just about now. It’s only been a few years for the luxury-conscious consumer to take it into consideration. But I must admit that the idea is unique,at least in India. In India,we are all about festivities and events — whether it’s birthdays,engagements,baby showers or wedding receptions. Nowadays,we want to celebrate even the most special moments — like taking your spouse out for a yacht trip in the night. That’s where we come in.

What other unique ideas does your yacht company provide?

The luxury consumer is always looking for something unique. We spend a lot of money but we never get the luxury experience. We need a beautiful,romantic setting and that’s where yachts score. I’ve even had bachelorette parties and high teas arranged on the yacht. The costs will always be the same. We even have beautiful couple packages — the yacht can dock in a few places like Murud or Janjira. It’s open for all kinds of parties and fortunately for me,I’ve taken the road less travelled. It’s all about keeping it special — even if it’s just tourism. Mumbai has an amazing coastline — we must take advantage of it.

You’ve been a model. How do you slip into the shoes of an entrepreneur so quickly? What qualities from your previous profession do you carry forward into the new one?

Having been a model and an actress,I now know that being an entrepreneur is no different. As a young model,I have always maintained a healthy balance between work and play and have dealt with all kinds of people. I’ve traveled alone and preserved my individuality. I would always know when to say the right thing and when not to — that’s something that worked for me. I am focused in my work and wear my attitude.

What are your future plans?

I am still a model and act too. I don’t do fashion weeks because I’m busy and am considered a bit expensive. Movies are an extension of my personality too. I love travel and want to make my mark in it. I am essentially not closeted into a box and like to juggle many roles. The yacht industry is small,we are working towards making it a bigger idea. I want to give the consumer a complete luxury experience. It’s about dream experiences and it fits beautifully with tourism. We are careful with safety measures and follow the appropriate rules and regulations,so I’m hoping this idea catches on. Yachts symbolise unique experiences and we have some wonderful sunset packages.

Latha Sunadh writes as a freelancer on beauty and fashion