Catamarans are coveted for their spacious interiors and comfortable, stable platforms in certain seas. The teams behind Necker Belle expect those reasons and more will attract charter guests once she becomes available in February in the British Virgin Islands.

The 105-footer is part of the Burgess charter fleet as well as the Virgin Limited Edition luxury resorts, the latter being Sir Richard Branson’s company. Branson is involved because he bought the yacht, launched in 2003 as Lady Barbaretta, and had her refitted as a charter yacht over the past several months.

I recently attended a launch party for the yacht, and although she wasn’t there – she’s en route to the islands from her refit yard in Australia – I did learn more about her. She will serve as both an independent charter yacht and as a cruiser available to guests staying at Branson’s Necker Island retreat. Branson (left) was onboard just prior to her departure and issued a statement: “She really is a stunner and certainly turned my head, especially knowing the speeds that she can get up to. I have no doubt she will do the same to everyone else!”

What’s so special about her speeds? Necker Belle is said to be capable of topping 20 knots while under sail, pretty impressive. Under power, she cruises at a reported 18 knots.

Other features make her noteworthy, too. All four staterooms, including the master, are above the waterline, so the views should be enjoyable. Two of the staterooms are doubles that can be arranged into twins, for flexibility. Should the need arise, the saloon can convert into a fifth stateroom. (Considering there’s a bar in the saloon, an attractive option for after-dinner drinks at anchor, I have a feeling the room will remain as is for most trips.)

Outside, there are expected amenities such as the cockpit seating/dining area, but there’s also a fighting chair, a diving board off the top deck, and a crow’s nest.

Necker Belle will have a winter rate of $88,000 per week, plus expenses, for both traditional charter guests and guests staying at Necker Island. She’ll head to the Med for the summer season, where her rates will switch to Euros: €65,000 (about $93,054) for high season and €60,000 (about $85,900) for low.

Here’s more of your first look at Necker Belle.