Necker Belle a 32 metre, or 105 foot, catamaran capable of reaching speeds of 20 knots is nearly ready to join the Virgin Limited Edition fleet after extensive renovations.

Necker Belle, formerly known as Lady Barbaretta was purchased by Richard Branson early in 2006 for a tidy sum of GBP5.3 million.  After a turbulent start, the catamaran is nearing completion and is back in Australia for its final nips and tucks.

“Necker Belle has spent the last two years undergoing an impressive refit,” said Virgin Limited Edition in a statement.

“Necker Belle will be available for tailor-made weekly charters from February 2010 onwards.   It is planned that she will spend the winters in the Caribbean and summers in the Mediterranean.”

Starting from US$88,000 for a seven nights, chartering this little lady won’t come cheap, but does include a crew of seven catering up to eight guests in four double cabins.