April 30, 2008

Monthly News - April 2008

- pic of the month - Jeanneau 34 Prestige number 500 delivered

Astondoa Group Acquires Faeton

Spanish superyacht builder the Astondoa Group has bought Spanish sportscruiser brand Faeton Yachts. With the acquisition of Faeton, the Astondoa Group now comprises 200,000m sq of production space and six distribution centres throughout Spain: Santa Pola, Alicante; Gallarta, Vizcaya; La Unión, Murcia; Vigo, Pontevedra; Almansa, Albacete; and Gádor, Almería. Astondoa's yard produces luxury yachts up to 60m (197ft). Faeton's sportscruisers and sportsfishers range from 8m-12m (26ft-39ft). The two brands have produced more than 6,000 vessels between them.


Azimut Sets Up China Subsidiary

Azimut Yachts announced at the Shanghai International Boat Show that it intends to establish a subsidiary in China called Azimut China. The company has had a presence in China for the last year through a representative office in Shanghai. It also has four dealers in the country. Azimut said in a statement that this will be its second factory office outside of Italy. The company has sold four yachts to Chinese clients in the last year, including a 98 Leonardo that will be delivered a few days before the Olympic sailing competitions. The company said that over 50 marinas are in the development or planning stage in the country. Azimut Yachts foresees a sales volume for 2012 of around 50 yachts per year and is seeing an orientation of its clients toward models in the high end of the range.

Azimut Five Year Plan, Double Turnover and Launch 25 Models

Azimut Yachts said in a statement that it has launched a five-year plan to double its turnover while simultaneously launching 25 new models. The Italian yacht builder said that total investments will amount to €150 million, including a €70 million investment to increase its production capacity. The company said that it will open a new facility in Arbatax Sardinia, and another new plant in Viareggio will soon be operational. A third plant in Savona is already operational. Azimut also announced a partnership with the Karsan Group in Turkey. Karsan will collaborate on the production of boats in the under-50ft range.


Beneteau Reveals Strong First Half

French boatbuilder Groupe Bénéteau has revealed that its first-half sales grew by 18.6 per cent over the same time last year to €447.5 million, with both of the group's core businesses, boats and mobile homes contributing to the growth. In the six months ended February 29, 2008, sales of boats climbed by 11.5 per cent (or 12.6 per cent on a constant exchange rate basis) to €323.7 million, which was higher than the expected growth of 7.3 per cent for the year. Bénéteau's mobile home business generated €93.4 million in first-half sales, resulting in a 73.1 per cent increase over the same period last year. Like-for-like, growth comes out at 10.8 per cent.


Dalla Pieta Yachts and Marangoni Institute

Giorgio Dalla Pietà, managing director and creative leader of Dalla Pietà Yachts, briefed students attending the Interior Design Master at Istituto Marangoni in Milan with the goal of spurring a number of design and outfitting suggestions for the interiors of the fleet's flagship, the DP 80'. The objective of the initiative is to integrate the business and education at Marangoni, a school which is already highly committed to establishing ties between the two worlds. Marangoni is characterised by a very international outlook. Teachers are all professional working every day in the fields and sectors they teach. Giorgio Dalla Pietà found himself particularly at ease as narrator. He started by illustrating the main steps in building a vessel and various issues related to sailing, to living onboard and to the spaces which must be devoted to structural elements of the yacht. He then focused on interior design and with the aid of deck layouts carried his listeners into an entirely new dimension of design. Each student was dealing with entirely new problems and unexplored spaces and today, they can measure themselves with an empty space to be imagined, rationalised and furnished. It is a great challenge to take on and may even reveal a new talent; a new passion may be kindled in some of them. It is a known fact that the passion for yachting is highly contagious and no-one better than Giorgio Dalla Pietà can conveys its spirit. The teachers who will be following the stages of the project were present at the briefing. The projects will be presented by May.


Fairline Boats Wins the Queen’s Award

Fairline Boats is proud to announce that the company has won The Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2008 in the International Trade category. This is the second time in its history that the company has received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Accomplishments considered by the judging panel when bestowing this prestigious award upon Fairline include doubling of their export sales over the last three years, increased overseas distribution and the creation of new jobs. This Award is the most prestigious corporate accolade that a UK business can win and honours outstanding UK companies. On hearing the news Derek Carter acknowledged the hard work and professionalism of the entire Fairline team. The winning of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2008 comes the year after Fairline celebrated 40 years of boat building and confirms its position as a pre-eminent global player in the luxury motor yacht market - and proud British company based in Northamptonshire.


Ferretti Group to Float on Upbeat Forecast

Candover, the private equity company which bought Ferretti for €1.7 billion in October 2006, is braving the turmoil in the financial markets to return the company to public ownership through a flotation on the Milan stock exchange valuing the business at up to €3 billion ($5 billion). Ferretti CEO Vincenzo Cannatelli was quoted in The Financial Times last week as saying that he forecast the company would generate 20 per cent growth in turnover and profit for the next two to three years. In the year to last August, Ferretti reported a 33 per cent rise in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of €158 million on turnover of €933 million. Ferretti, of which the founder Norberto Ferretti still retains a large minority stake, has been a publicly quoted business twice before in the past 10 years as previous private equity owners have sought to maximise the return on their investment. The latest return to the stock market is scheduled for the second half of this year. Merrill Lynch and Mediobanca have won the mandate to work on the flotation which, if market conditions allow, is likely to be one of the few potential flotations of private equity owned companies this year. Following a period of intense acquisition activity by Ferretti in the late 1990s, during which time important brands where added to the group, more recent strategy seems to have been one of organic growth with the company doing particularly well with its larger, more expensive yachts.


Ferretti Yachts Press Campaign Celebrates 40th Anniversary

"It was in 1968. While the world was changing, Norberto Ferretti challenged the sea". That is the inspirational spirit behind the new Ferretti Yachts press campaign by the agency Lorenzo Marini & Associati celebrating the Forlì-based yard, now at the forefront of the nautical world. Forty years of continuous improvement, commitment and passion combined with increasing innovation, state of the art technologically, high-performance, sophisticated craft, reaching outstanding levels of safety, is what has made Ferretti the leader. Forty years of challenges, successes, and far-sightedness, expressed in the refined timeless elegance of a photo, the evocative black and white shot of the diver, where Ferretti Yachts captures the union between the man and the sea. The photo represents mankind's search for the essence of the deep blue waters and a love for the sea that is transformed into an intimate world, the philosophy of sailing the Ferretti way. The use of black and white is always a characteristic feature of Ferretti Yachts advertising, even in communications. When enhanced with passionate words, a clear, forceful message is created: "In 1968 someone changed the world. Someone else changed the sea."The new institutional campaign, bearing the special logo created for the 40th anniversary, is planned on the major nautical and lifestyle magazines, in conjunction with an important celebration project that includes events for Owners and everyone who has experienced, shared and contributed to the company's success.

Ferretti 40th Aniversary Privilege Days

Special edition of “Privilege Days”, the exclusive event dedicated to Ferretti Yachts, Mochi Craft and Ferretti Custom Line owners. Cattolica an historic location with special importance for the Ferretti Yachts yard hosted the eagerly-awaited Privilege Days event on 19th and 20th April, an exclusive opportunity for Ferretti Yachts, Mochi Craft and Ferretti Custom Line owners from across the world to meet. Now in its sixth edition, and inspired by the great success of previous years, the Privilege Days 2008 had a special significance, opening the celebrations of one of Italian industrys most exciting stories, written by Norberto Ferretti. During the Privilege Days Ferretti Yachts, Mochi Craft and Ferretti Custom Line, icons of Made in Italy luxury and excellence, shared passion for the sea with a cosmopolitan, privileged community that also took part in the world debut of new exclusive crafts. Cattolicas Marina Nuova, in fact, was entirely dedicated to the complete Ferretti Yachts range alongside the Mochi Craft and Ferretti Custom Line fleets, with the attraction of worldwide premires of the Navetta 33 and112 NEXT. For the special edition 2008, Privilege Days captivated guests with an evening of sheer style: the exclusive Black&White dinner party which - recreating the party of the century held by Truman Capote at New Yorks elegant Plaza Hotel in 1966 - brought together the world of Ferretti on Saturday 19 April at the Horses Riviera Resort. The more than 700 guests were offered breathtaking surprises during the party and on the quay during the weekend thanks to the participation of the greatest names in Italian and international luxury like Bulgari, La Perla and Mercedes. Ferretti Group President Norberto Ferretti, did the honours as hosts, sharing with friends, VIPs, ship owners and international media the historic milestones leading the shipyard to the top of the nautical world.


Grand Banks Earns Top Honors At Christolfe Asia Awards

Grand Banks Yachts was voted Best Asian Motor Yacht Builder at the fourth edition of the Christofle Asia Boating Awards. The company earned the top spot in the 40-70 foot category, during ceremonies held here today at Le Royal Meridien. The Christofle Asia Boating Awards show is widely known as the region's premier event, aiming to recognize the best of the maritime industry. The annual event, created by Asia-Pacific Boating and China Boating magazines, was first held in 2005. The Christolfe award is the latest in a series of accolades earned by Grand Banks for its operations in Singapore and Malaysia. The company was also recently honored with a 2007 Employer Award and Malaysia's Industry Excellence Award, among others.


Jeanneau Delivers Number Five Hundred 34 Prestige Model

Owing to excellence in construction and craftsmanship, the Prestige 34 has become the most popular motor yacht within its market sector, with 500 boats built in just five years. This achievement underscores a fine performance in both production and sales. The production of the 500th Prestige 34 is also a testament to the strength and growing popularity of Jeanneau’s Prestige line, launched in 2000. Composed of nine motor yachts, including Flybridge and Express models, the Prestige line is perfectly positioned to meet the demands of today’s consumer market. Conceptualized by the Italian firm, Garroni Designers, the Prestige 34 owes its success to uncommon comfort in the cockpit, a well-appointed interior offering unique design details, a very efficient Jeanneau hull, and an overall atmosphere of classic luxury. Both Open and Sport Top versions are available, allowing the Prestige 34 to take the lead in its market sector.


Marquis Yachts to Expand Wisconsin Facility

Marquis Yachts, a division of Genmar Holdings, announced yesterday that it intends to expand its facility in Pulaski, Wisconsin as well as open a new production facility in nearby Green Bay to build larger yachts. The announcement was made at a press conference that included Carver officials, Genmar Chairman Irwin Jacobs, and Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle. The Green Bay facility will allow to build Marquis yachts up to 30.5m (100ft). The Pulaski plant, which will be expanded to more than 800,000sq ft, manufactures Carver and Marquis yachts from 10.1m-19.8m (33ft-65ft) in length. Carver currently employs about 850 workers.


Riviera Exports Heading Europe

Australia’s largest luxury boat builder recently has completed a significant overseas shipment of 11 boats valued at more than $14 million. The boats, ranging from a 33 Open Flybridge to three 56 Open Flybridge models, were lifted on board the giant cargo ship Cap Mondego in Brisbane. Most of the shipment is for clients in Europe, with a 4700 Sport Yacht bound for the United States, unloading in Savannah, Georgia. The 33 Open Flybridge is bound for Belgium while the remainder will be unloaded in ports on the Mediterranean including the three 56 Open Flybridge models, one headed for the company’s Dealer at Barcelona in Spain, one to France and one to Italy. Other models in the shipment include two 45 Open Flybridge models with moulded staircase, a new 48 Offshore Express, a 4400 Sport Yacht with Volvo IPS propulsion, a 47 Series II Enclosed Flybridge and 51 Flybridge.


Sanlorenzo New CFO

Italian superyacht builder Sanlorenzo Spa has appointed Diego Cavalli as the firm's new chief financial officer. Cavalli was formally CFO with the Azimut-Benetti group and has worked in administrative and financial management since 1991. The new CFO will be responsible for consolidating a phase of growth and diversification at Sanlorenzo, which three years ago saw the opening of the firm's Viareggio division. Cavalli will also play a role in new initiatives that Sanlorenzo has planned for the future. With production facilities in northeast Italy, Sanlorenzo builds a range of luxury yachts up to superyacht size.


Sealine for the RYA

The Royal Yachting Association have used the award winning Sealine SC35 motor cruiser to demonstrate the boat handling techniques in their new training DVD. The new DVD, called ‘Motor Boat Handling’, emphasises the importance of good seamanship and safety practices, whilst at the same time illustrating how to manoeuvre your boat easily in confined spaces and most importantly, have fun. Most of the manoeuvring takes place in and around marina situations. Turning in close proximity to other boats and mooring up are the sort of procedures that can cause concern for new boaters. This excellent DVD shows you the way to develop your skills and start driving around the marina with a smile on your face instead of a nervous frown. Sealine’s Sea School principal, Richard Corbett, was really pleased that their continuing association with the RYA and the RYA’s confidence in Sealine as a suitable training platform, has lead the RYA to choose a Sealine for their DVD. The DVD is available to buy in September and is expected to be translated into a number of languages.


Sunseeker Makes Top 100 Profit List

The UK's Sunseeker International has appeared in The Sunday Times' Profit Track 100, a list of Britain's fastest growing private companies according to average profit growth. Sunseeker, which placed at number 70, has increased its profits by 58 per cent annually over the past three years. The company has also made significant investments in new shipyard facilities in Poole and Portland on Britain's south coast. Headquartered in Poole, Dorset, Sunseeker employs around 2,500 staff at its sites in Poole and Portland. Planned expansion at the Portland site will allow the company to meet increased orders for their larger models, including the Predator 108, 37 Metre Yacht and recently launched 34 Metre Yacht. Profit Track 100 is compiled by Fast Track and published in The Sunday Times each April.

Sunseeker Installs New Travelift

A new travel hoist capable of lifting boats of up 260 tonnes has been installed at Sunseeker International's Poole-based shipyard in the UK. Supplied by Wise Handling Ltd, the new hoist has a height of almost 13m (43ft) and is capable of launching or retrieving boats of up to 47m (154ft) at Poole Quay. Sunseeker says that a similar travel hoist will soon be delivered to the company's Osprey Quay shipyard in Portland, Dorset. The 11-acre site is currently being used for the construction of various models, including the 37 Metre, 34 Metre and Predator 108. A number of even larger models are currently in the design and development stage.

April 29, 2008

New Model: Sea Ray 350 Sundancer

New flagship of Sea Rays Sport Cruiser line is the 350 / 375 Sundancer presented World Wide in the Miami Boat Show of 2008 last February. A generously sized express style boat, making it exceptionally qualified for cruising and entertaining, with an extensive list of stern drives or V-drive inboards, petrol or diesel fuel option, lets you choose your preferred power. Interior accommodation is very spacious with a forward V-berth, big mid-stateroom and convertible salon sofa, sleeping six in comfort. There is also a fully equipped galley and head, and a 26 inch flat screen TV with remote DVD player. Other important features of the new Sundancer is the big bathing platform with foldaway seat for two, a cockpit entertainment center with stainless steel wash basin, counter top refrigerator and optional grill and last but not least the central boat positioned over sized side windows which give a relaxed natural ambiance of light in the saloon area.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.43 m (37.6ft)
LOA - 11.95 m with optional add on swimming platform
Beam - 3.66 m
Draft - 1.01 m shaft version
Fuel Capacity - 946 l
Water Capacity - 186 l
Engines - 2 x MCM T-496 375hp, Yanmar 6LP-STP 306hp
Propulsion - Sterndrives, V-Drives Shaft
Hull Shape - vee shaped with 21 degrees deadrise

April 28, 2008

Web: Rodman New Web Site

A new website for this renowned Spanish builder who build a reputation, first by building Mediterranean style fisherman cruisers, then by going into the cruiser market and lately by offering very high end motor yachts with the new Muse range, designed by renowned Italian architect Fulvio De Simoni. Rodman was founded in 1974, but in the last decade it really showed it's success, first with it's fantastic range of medium sized fisher cruisers of high reliability and lately with the introduction of the top market Muse range. Today the Rodman range starts with the Fisher & Cruiser range 810 model, and goes up to the 74 Muse, presented in June 2007. The new website of the Spanish builder is divided into five sections: Home, Range, Vision, Quality and Dealers. The Range page opens into three other pages representing the three lines: the Rodman Yacht, Fisher & Cruiser and the Rodman Muse.

April 25, 2008

New Model: Cabo 38 Flybridge

The Cabo 38 Flybridge follows the successful launch last year of the Cabo 38 Express. The uncompromising Cabo 38 Flybridge is built utilizing the same superior construction techniques that has established a benchmark for quality in the industry and is designed to be an excellent intermediate size boat with the same ride and handling characteristics of a larger vessel that comes equipped with a package that will appeal to the most discerning buyer. The new Cabo 38 Flybridge offers top of the range and performance that today’s fisherman demands, but don’t be fooled by the size. The Cabo 38 Flybridge is all business, with interior features and amenities typically reserved for boats much larger in size. Engine options will range from 715HP to 800HP from a variety of engine manufacturers. Equipped with the standard Caterpillar C12 ACERT 715 HP, the Cabo 38 Flybridge has an expected cruise of 32 knots at 2000 RPM and 36 knots wide open. The Cabo 38 Flybridge accommodates overnight anglers with a forward double berth master stateroom featuring two hanging lockers, rod storage and private access to a spacious head. Guests are welcome to a port side guest stateroom with bunks. The open salon creates comfortable seating for relaxing, watching TV or enjoying a meal prepared in the adjacent galley, and still she remains true to form with all of the standard fishing amenities you have come to expect from Cabo.
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.3 m (40.8ft)
Hull Length - 11.5 m
Beam - 4.5 m
Draft - 1. 14 m
Displacement - 12.700 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1798 l
Water Capacity - 359 l
Accommodation - 4 berths
Engines - 2 x Cummins QSC8.3 600hp, Cats C12 715hp, MAN R6 800 hp
Speed - 33 knots cruising, 37 knots max with 800hp MANs
Range - 245 nm @ 33 knots cruising
Project - Michael Peters

April 24, 2008

Project: Itama Fifty

A much awaited project the Itama Fifty, what has been an important dimension in the past of this status symbol boat builder. This new Itama Fifty today represents the natural replacement of the old 45 and 46 models, classic jewels of the range produced in the 80s and 90s respectively. The new owners of this legendary brand name, Ferretti Group and Pershing really put all the best to tribute the classic models, with designer Marco Casali presenting a craft with a similar but modernized layout to the legendary models. Proof to this are the interior plans which show what is a classic Itama layout with two cabins forward and a third spacious double VIP cabin aft, may be so normal today in open yachts from Italy but so unusual when first appearing on the 45 in the eighties. The new Fifty apart keeping the tradition inside will have the usual attributes as perfect mid positioned engines, low shaft angle for the best performance, deep vee hull all the way and the clean uncluttered timeless classic lines associated with this brand. Estimated performance figures give a 36 knots top speed with two 800hp MAN engines. So now it is just about seeing one for real hopefully in the coming Autumn shows.

April 23, 2008

New Model: Apreamare 64

The excellent partnership between Victory Design and the Apreamare boatyard has made it possible to present over the years models able to meet the needs of sailors who observe traditions and love contemporary classic designed yachts. This great enthusiasm shown for the Apreamare 60 followed up with a desire and requests from clients for a bigger model, leading to a formal and volumetric evolution of the original Sorrento gozzo into a new styling and size dimension: the Apreamare 64. The bow area of the flagship of the gozzo range features the much-appreciated U-shaped sofa, while the stern, which is this new model key point, thanks to its distinct design profile, blending perfectly with traditional hull lines. The hallmark of this craft, represented by classic round shapes, is thus enhanced in a new evolution of the aft area, which apart it's innovative design, features a relaxing sofa which can be transformed into a handy, comfortable sundeck when needed. As standard from Apreamare the most natural materials for the classic furniture are used, with a predominance of shiny and matt mahogany, added with touches of Viennese straw with mirrored, chrome plated and steel hardware. The partnership between Victory Design and Apreamare gave birth to a new jewel of 64 feet which is a sport yacht with a twist, calling traditional lines but innovative functions ready to satisfy the needs of the most demanding sailors who love a classic and sporty craft.
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.4 mts (63.8ft)
Length Waterline - 14.69 m
Beam - 5.60 m
Draft - 1.32 m (loaded)
Displacement - 32.2 t
Fuel Capacity - 3000 l
Water Capacity - 1000 l
Max Persons - 16
Engines - 2 x MAN V10 1100hp
Speed - 33.5 knots max, 29 knots cruising
Range - 300 nautical miles
Hull Type - Warped hull with spray rails 16 degrees dead rise aft
Design - Victory
Certification - CE B RINA

April 22, 2008

Project: Tiara 3900 Open

The Tiara 3900 Open project is an interesting combination of a sport cruiser design with the fisherman in mind, blending the pleasure of cruising and the passion of fishing. While staying true to the versatile Open design that is a Tiara Yachts legacy, the new 3900 Open turns up the volume on features that resonate with anglers. This American builder has always been producing sports cruisers with the fisherman in mind, and as expected few offers manage this delicate blend successfully as Tiara. This new model will proof all this with the aft cockpit and its mezzanine seating, what is an innovative feature for a boat this size. In fact the aft-facing mezzanine seat, set at sight level is perfect for the cruiser for the long trip and ideal for the fisherman eyeing the bait. This new Tiara as expected for this high rated builder offers many other innovations that will make the all-new 3900 Open a great choice for fishing, cruising or as is the standard from this builder both.

April 21, 2008

New Model: CNM 50 Continental

A young yard from Rome, Italy which presented itself in the market with an eighty footer a couple years back, presents an innovative 16 meters sport yacht with a very modern concept, the new CNM 50 Continental. This new model from Cantieri Navali Dell' Mediterraneo has all the power, looks and comfort that you could ever want but above all it really presents a host of modern unseen concepts. The 50 Continental expresses a notably innovative concept of space thanks to an entirely flexible internal configuration. You can have from one to three cabins in just 15 minutes without requiring special manpower. There is a host of innovative technological solutions also outside in the cockpit which provides maximum unseen comfort, like the stern sun loungers that can be stowed in the large after peak, the galley with kitchen and wash basin hidden under the helm's folding seat, sun area united to side corridors facilitating deck movements, and very important but eye catching too the hydraulically opened double broadside platform increasing available space to the water. The inside space on the 50 Continental can also be modified as your needs, thanks to an innovative Modular System, exclusive idea of the Mediterraneo shipyard, permitting to transform the interior layout, to suit your needs. In fact moving the special panels, one can pass from a single loft style interior to a comfortable three cabin sport yacht and back in very little time. Thanks to this special modular layout it is possible to have: an owners cabin with two saloon settees, an owners cabin plus two guest cabins, and last is an owners cabin with a guest cabin plus a saloon with settee.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.01 m (52.5ft)
Length - 15.70 m
Waterline Length - 11.41 m
Beam - 4.50 m Draft - 0.92 m (ex props)
Fuel Capacity - 2000 l
Water Capacity - 420 l
Weight - 19500 kg XS version with bigger CATs C18 option ASD 12L
Engines - 2 x MAN 730 hp, 2 x Cat C18 800hp
Propulsion - V-Drive shaft, Volvo IPS, Surface Drives Arneson ASD11 or ASD12L

April 19, 2008

New Model: Lazzara LMY 116

The Lazzara 116 Motor Yacht is the flagship of this Americans builder renowned range of yachts. The 116 is the largest yacht Lazzara builds and while still a production fiberglass hull, just about everything else is left to the owner's imagination where personal taste and customization is concerned. The first build of the 116 was built as an open flybridge yacht with an integrated hard top, offering plenty of shade during those sunny cruises. Exterior styling is by Dick Lazzara who created a super yacht with a fusion design between the flybridge motor yachts range and the new successful LSX 75 sport. Interiors are exquisitely crafted and feature a beautiful light pecan finish, with stainless steel and tan leather accents. Saloon and dining areas are wood floored throughout giving the yacht an open flow from the aft deck to the galley. In the galley is a skylight allowing warm natural light to shine on the large settee. An other spectacular detail is the rear lighted granite floor in the lower foyer. Hull number one for the Lazzara flagship has top speeds of 28 knots with a comfortable cruising of around 21 knots, powered by twin 2000hp MTU engines.
Technical Data:
LOA - 35.2 m (115.7ft)
Beam - 7.04 m
Draft - 1.7 m
Fuel Capacity - 16277 l
Water Capacity - 2271 l
Engines - 2 x MTU series 2000 2000hp
Speed - 28 knots max, 21 knots cruising
Design - Dick Lazzara, interior Christine DeLashmutt 

April 18, 2008

Boat Review: Baia 70 Italia

Presentation
This month's boat review is one of the most innovative 2007 new models, the Baia 70 Italia. The 70 Italia continues adding more innovative features to the Naples builder line of sports cruisers and yachts. The modernization of the Baia line started in 1998, with the introduction of the now legendary 48 Flash, featuring at the time a unique removable hard top system and continued recently with the 78 Atlantica which the Italia did steal some features from. Still the Italian builder has plenty of numbers and innovations into it's portfolio, of which the most famous is being the first to use renowned Arneson surface drives. The 70 Italia is a striking combination of timeless design, recognizable with the flush deck equals classic, while glass hard top and saloon deck combination transformation making it as modern as you can.
Accommodation
As said, the saloon welcoming deck really makes the 70 Italia a modern boat, thanks to the fully opening patio door system, making saloon and aft cockpit transform into one big entertain deck. Upon boarding the aft exterior cockpit has a central located C-shaped settee, convertible to a sunbed. The interior saloon is made for entertainment divided with a comfortable L-shaped settee to starboard and a spacious wet bat to port. A dual helm station is located forward to the saloon area to starboard, making trips enjoyable and part of the adventure, thanks also to the big windows which give unobstructed views.
Lower deck is reserved for the accommodation area plus the separate galley room. Master cabin in located mid-ship, with a spacious en-suite bathroom featuring also a door separated shower. VIP cabin is located forward also equipped with the personal en-suite. Third double berth guest cabin is located to starboard with its en-suite head featuring in this case a second entrance from the main corridor, in order to be used as day head. Crew cabin is located mid-ship and has two bunk berths and a private head. The location of the crew cabin makes it possible to use it for guests, being in so a good position but also of respectable comfort and size.
Performance
I remember a few years back when boarding a Baia with Arneson surface drives how against most yachts equipped with the same transmission it did ride smooth and in line. One of the problems many builders have when putting this type of propulsion is the dolphin movement, meaning an up and down ride which happens at thirty knots plus speeds. This is something not felt on Baias, showing the high experience they have for surface driven boats and being the first to use it, is most expected one would add. The 70 Italia has two engine options of similar power but with the Cats giving an extra 3 knots of top speed at 52 knots and 2 knots more in cruising at 46 knots versus the German MTU engine. The Cat also has a lower revolution range of 2350. Another surprising data is the low planning speed of the Italia, planning at just 14 knots, a fabulous result for a surface propelled boat which usually with this size and engines, goes up in the high twenties. Low planning speed is a great advantage specially when one encounters not so good weather with heavy heads seas during his trip or crossing as is the case.
Positive
Glass Hard Top
Patio Door
Upper Saloon Layout
Negative
Galley
Competition
Hard top 21 metre boats have been in high demand recently, and so the offer in such a wealthy size in the last ten years is ten times more then it was. Competition selection criteria was based on high performance of forty knots plus, size 20 - 22 metres, similar three cabin accommodation and a hard top, accept for the wild card, which is totally different but offering similar lifestyle. All the models had surface drives, accept for AB and Wally which have jet transmissions. Italcraft and Abbate had also a different make to Arneson in this case Topsystem and Trimax respectively.
AB 68 - jet power with super handling, high customization 
Bruno Abbate Primatist G70 Aerotop Pininfarina - third cabin bunk, 4 Seatek 47 knots
Fashion 68 - nice exterior, stylish rich inside and spacious
Italcraft 70 Drago - military derived hull guarantees sea qualities, high customization
Magnum 70 - hull.11 with glass HT, top performance sea keeping, 60 knots with big MTUs
Pershing 72 - similar cockpit deck open system, sold out till 2010
WallyPower 73 - future looking as you can, waterjets give 40 knots max
WILD CARD: Mulder 68 Convertible - semi planning 32 knots, classic, sporty, stylish
Conclusion
The Baia 70 Italia scores many points with the most attractive being the opening patio door, making a hard top yacht transform into a big open offshore. Then comes the remaining of the equation, that is the other bonuses of a super luxury sport yacht with a semi custom interior and super high performance, making the Italia fly at around 50 knots. Baia declared 2008 production sold out for the 70 before the closing of Genoa Boat show in October, this is not surprising considering the classic lines of the boat which feature so much modernity in them that can make much of the competition look old.
Technical Data
LOA. 21.68 metres (71.1 ft)
Beam. 5.65 metres
Draft. 1.05 metre
Displacement. 40 T loaded
Fuel Capacity. 5500 litres
Water Capacity. 800 litres
Max Persons. 16
Accommodation. 6 berths + 2 crew berths
Engines. 2 x MTU 12V 2000 M93 1822hp, CAT C32 ACERT 1825hp
Propulsion. Surface Drives Arneson ASD 14
Speed. 52 knots max, 46 knots cruising, 14 knots planning speed with bigger CAT C32 option
Range. 450 nautical miles approx
Project. Galeazzi
www.baiayacht.it
Picture Copyright Baia. Data Baia.

April 16, 2008

New Model: Sunseeker 52 Predator

The new Sunseeker 52 Predator adds further choice to the ever popular range of high performance sport yachts and is designed to combine outstanding performance and handling with astonishing cruising comforts usually associated with flybridge motor yachts. A new model sharing it's hull lines with the new 52 Manhattan, also presented as the Predator at the Southampton show. This new Predator takes ideas from the bigger sisters, with a new hydraulic stern lifting platform for easy tender lift and also a distinctive automatic protective sliding hard top. The aft spacious cockpit features a sun lounger, contoured seating, dining table and a wet bar leading through the patio door inside the covered main saloon area. The lower accommodation deck features the fully equipped galley, a master stateroom with en-suite, a forward stateroom with en-suite and a twin Pullman berth cabin. With a dynamic profile, hallmark Sunseeker curves, sweeping guard rails and top speed of 32 knots, the 52 Predator confirms once again the spirits of the prestigious British builder.
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.60 m (57.9ft) inc pulpit
Waterline Length - 13.11 m
Beam - 4.49 m
Draft - 1.26 m
Displacement - 24800 kg @ half load
Fuel Capacity - 2140 l
Water Capacity - 625 l
Engines - 2 x 800hp
Speed - 32 knots max, 23 knots cruising
Range - 250 nautical miles

April 15, 2008

Projects: GIanetti Star 58 Navetta, Gianetti Star 65 Navetta, Gianetti Star 75 Navetta, Gianetti Star 85 Navetta 3 Deck, Gianetti Star 105 Navetta

After having delivered 2 semi displacement models in the 85 feet range, Italian Viareggio based builder Gianetti decided to offer a whole line of Navetta type yachts from 58 up 105 feet, build in fiberglass and steel, alloy for the bigger 105 feet model. The 58 foot Navetta will be the entry model of the range and in my opinion also the most important. First for the size which is a comfortable but not big yacht accessible in many marinas and easy handled with no help, second is the characteristics of a semi displacement ship like style motor yacht from Europe and from Italy in this size. Something rare to see! Interior for the 58 Navetta also follows a much European layout with 3 spacious cabins, featuring the ever important full beam owners cabin. Power will be a pair of Cummins rated at 480hp each, of which no speeds as yet have been announced.
The second family member in size of the new range of Gianetti Star is the 65. Also as the 58 a very important size and as the smaller model also build of fiberglass. Interior is a 3 cabin layout, with 2 crew cabins, 1 mid ship which can be used also as a guest cabin and 1 aft. Power is for two Cummins of 715hp each, which the builder gives a range of 1150 miles at 10 knots. Another add up to the Gianetti Star line, is 75 Navetta model. Here the dimensions at 75 are for a more standard size for a semi displacement yacht, as the market has some offers in this size mostly from Northern European yard. Still the Gianetti has a very modern Mediterranean line to it with the usual Italian flare, expected from a Viareggio builder. Standard interior plan is a 3 cabin layout with a spacious 4 berth crew lobby forward. Engines are two Cummins 670hp each, surprisingly less power to the smaller 65 model, give a range of 1350 miles at 10 knots. Three deck version based on the 85 model, which so far Gianetti has launched in two versions, S and C. The new 85 3 Deck has a more classic exterior looks, thanks primary to the raised pilot house on the third deck. The third deck up top is not only the pilot house but also features another entertainment area up top, thanks to the c-shaped saloon. This new 85 version, compared to the S and C versions so far delivered is powered by bigger Cummins 1015hp each, which the builder is estimating a range of 2300 miles at cruising of 10 knots. The project of the Gianetti Star 105 Navetta, will be so far the biggest motor yacht to ever be built by this experienced Viareggio builder, which I remind started building yachts in 1980. This new model will be constructed in difference to the other Star yachts, with a steel hull and an alloy superstructure giving maximum stability, another first for Gianetti. Standard plans show a 5 cabin interior with a fabulous owners stateroom on the main deck, featuring full 360 views. Standard power option is a pair of Cats at 1000hp, with 4 by Generators of which 2 emergency units. Construction will be with to highest standard RINA 1oo A 1.1 Y class.

April 11, 2008

New Model: Viking 50 Convertible

Presented during the Miami Show is the Viking 50 Convertible, a broad sport fishermen yacht to both tournament and cruising yachtsmen. The outside lines of the new Viking are aggressive with a raked stem to slice through head seas for a comfortable ride offshore, making the new 50 Convertible a winner in it's main environment, the sea. Interior the theme continues for a class leading boat, with a spacious three-stateroom, two-head layout offering generous accommodation, comfort and privacy for six. The master stateroom has a queen-sized walk around berth with an upholstered head board, mattress and lift top, which exposes plenty of stowage below, reading lights, a large maple-lined hanging locker and an entertainment system. The privately accessed head has Amtico vinyl flooring, a teak-faced Corian counter with built-in sink, a fiberglass shower stall with seat and an electric MSD. Port and forward guest staterooms each offer the flexibility of upper and lower berths and share the second head. A laundry center is located adjacent to the companionway steps. The outside cockpit, features 132 square-feet of usable space, packing every element you need to take. Power for the new Viking is latest MAN CRM 1100hp diesels and with a standard fuel load gives 32 knots cruise speeds and top of 36 knots. A more powerful optional with 1360 hp MAN CRM engines also is available to increase the cruise speed to 36 knots and to provide a top end of 40 knots depending upon load and existing conditions.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.39 m (50.6ft)
Beam - 5.18 m
Draft - 1.47 m
Weight - 30.164 kg
Fuel Capacity - 3785 l
Water Capacity - 662 l
Engines - 2 x MAN CRM 1100hp, 1360hp
Speed - 40 knots max, 36 knots cruising MAN 1360hp option

April 10, 2008

Project: Maxi Dolphin 61 Power Evolution

The Maxi Dolphin 61 Power Evolution is an innovative project, natural forward step of the 51 Power model presented in 2007. First rendering designs for the new bigger Power model show similar contemporary line as for the 51 model, with a classic American picnic boat influence. Propulsion for the new 61 Power Evolution will be a more speed orientated surface drives system, giving the best usually for a 40 knots plus performance. Interior accommodation details have not yet been submitted but the side port hole windows make you imagine for a loft style interior with a spacious owners cabin mid ship.

April 9, 2008

New Model: Solare 47 Coupe

A very interesting boat builder based in Viareggio, Italy which has a range of fast boats featuring a fast deep vee hull with a superstructure of a lobster boat influence design. The new 47 Coupe is a different version to the 47 Lobster model, with some important differences in the stern layout and a more open Mediterranean cockpit. The design of the coach roof, follows a more aggressive theme with an extended hardtop, finished partly in glass for maximum natural light and covering three quarters of the outside area. Standard cockpit layout of the 47 has a galley on the main deck to port, c-shaped settee in the forward area, l-shaped settee in the lower deck and a spacious sun lounger aft. Inside in the lower deck, sleeping accommodation is a 3 cabin 2 head layout, with master cabin forward and 2 identical guest cabins midship. Still variations of the theme are available as Solare is very much a custom builder, modifying the boat as customer wishes. The different propulsion options in this case: stern drives, shafts with tunnels or surface drives also show the open mind in which this builder offers its products to it's clients.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.25 m (46.7ft)
Length - 12.70 m Beam - 4.20 m
Draft - 1.10 m
Weight - 11 t
Fuel Capacity - 1750 l
Water Capacity - 500 l
Max People - 12
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x Cats 460hp
Speed - 32 knots max
Certification - CE B

April 8, 2008

Projects: Galeon 640, Galeon 325, Galeon 325 HT

An important project for the Polish builder, Galeon which with the 640 presents it's biggest build to date for this growing Eastern European company. Designed by famous architect Tony Castro, the 640 will launch Galeon to a demanding clientele size. Accommodation is a spacious 4 cabin 3 heads interior and an aft crew cabin. As this rendering shows the new flagship is a Mediterranean styled motor yacht with an aggressive sports exterior. The 325 Galeon as the previewed flagship above, continues the Tony Castro relationship for the Polish builder. The 325 is a Mediterranean looking sports cruiser with aggressive exterior lines. Inside accommodation is a 2 cabin interior, single shower head, c-shaped settee and a well sized fully equipped galley. Exterior cockpit is a c-shaped settee with a wetbar to starboard. Hard top version for the 325 which keeps the Tony Castro lines and identical accommodation and cockpit layout, but featuring the benefit of an all weather hard top protected cockpit. 

April 7, 2008

New Model: Atlantis 35 Plus

Atlantis has to be praised for this new version of the 35 model, now offered to a wider audience with the Plus, presenting some important differences adding more comfort for extended family trips. The immediate noticeable design difference of the Plus model over the standard 35 is the radar arch, giving the characteristics of a cruiser versus the sporty design of the standard version. The cockpit of the Plus version also follows the concept of a cruiser with a completely modified layout, now in a more family design featuring a well sized C-shaped settee to starboard, an entrance from the bathing platform to port and also a small wash basin with grill in the cockpit to port, giving superior comfort outside. The new 35 Plus shows the sensibility of Atlantis, offering a very high profile product in a new different version reaching a wider audience. The 35 Plus just adds the bonus of a different boat but keeping important successful points in the standard version like the comfortable interior accommodation space, luxurious finishing and performance of 40 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.67 m (35ft)
Beam - 3.60 m
Fuel Capacity - 650 l
Water Capacity - 180 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 260hp, D4 300hp, D6 310hp, D6 330hp, D6 350hp, D6 370hp
Speed - 40 knots max
Project - Michael Peters
Certification - CE B

April 4, 2008

Project: Aicon 82 Open

The Aicon 82 Open is the latest project from the World famous Sicilian shipyard, offering a sports power yacht with style. The new Aicon will be flagship of the Open line but also the first from this shipyard to be equipped with surface drive propulsion, offering the best in high speed performance and manoeuvrability. Exterior the concept follows what has already been a trademark for this young successful builder, with pure and elegant proportioned lines thanks to a streamlined coach roof design showing a sporty performing yacht. Inside the new 82 Open aims to offer the maximum comfort in an environment which creates harmony between interior and exterior areas. The Aicon designers call this new concept of a loft on the water with ample sized windows giving the idea of a free space. The same characteristic is followed in the lower deck cabin area, with the four cabins and respective ensuite bathrooms also able to create a very close contact to the exterior environment.

April 3, 2008

New Model: Marquis 500 SC

The partnership between Marquis and the prestigious Nuvolari & Lenard Italian designers seems to become a source of inspiration, resulting in a trend setting range of craft from 42 up to 69 feet giving unique styling, quality and performance. Nuvolari-Lenard’s fame designing the world’s most innovative super yachts, finds its obvious place in all the Marquis range of Power Yachts setting a family feeling design which continues throughout the latest new model the Marquis 500 SC. With an innovative layout this new sport yacht offers a high value separate layout, with the main deck reserved for entertainment featuring the cockpit, salon, helm, station and galley on the same level and the lower deck for accommodation. The entertainment level offers also offers a dual function salon, with a huge solarium environment thanks to the power sunroof overhead, but also the transom lounge expanding with the push of a button increasing the size of the cockpit to a more spacious area. Below deck the accommodation area features 3 cabins: a master stateroom, two guest cabins and two head compartments each with its own enclosed stall shower. Powered with Volvo IPS 600 pod drives the 500 SC, has a top speed of 37 knots and like all Marquis, is certified to CE-Class A specifications, meaning it meets European Union highest standards.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.1 m (49.6ft)
Beam - 4.7 m
Draft - 1.1 m
Weight - 20.184 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1915 l
Water Capacity - 605 l
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 3 x Volvo IPS600 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward looking duoprop pod drives
Speed - 37 knots max
Designers - Nuvolari Lenard
Certification - CE A

April 1, 2008

New Model: Apreamare 32 Open

A model in perfect Apreamare style, with up-to-date and young looking features according to the demands of the modern pleasure boater. The new 32 Open belonging to the gozzo range, is an evolution of the 32 Comfort model, and keeps Apreamare tradition of a simple, practical and stylish sports cruiser. The soft, fluid external lines are inspired by the traditional sailing boats of the Sorrento peninsula, boasting a fashionable design fully meeting today's needs of a sport boat with timeless looks. Great attention has been paid to the design of the deck areas with the curved lines coming together perfectly, giving the craft a determined, sporty appeal which goes to combine the original solutions offered in the cockpit area. The large sundeck located at the bow, which thanks to the deep and safe deck can also be used during navigation, gives the craft a bubbly feel, encompassing historical value that has always been an Apreamare hallmark. Inside, the new small Aprea has an open space layout echoing the much appreciated mix of style and comfort found in all the models belonging to the gozzo range, with a spacious double berth forward, but a lower deck cabin area with plenty of stowage areas, ensuring excellent livability for an over night stay.
Technical Data:
LOA - 9.90 m (32.6ft)
Length Waterline - 7.15 m
Beam - 3.20 m
Draft - 0.71 m
Weight - 6.6 t (loaded)
Fuel Capacity - 500 l
Water Capacity - 200 l
Max Persons - 8
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 225hp
Speed - 28 knots max, 23 knots cruising
Range - 190 nautical miles
Hull Shape - variable geometry vee shape with spray rays 14 degrees deadrise
Certification - CE B, RINA