March 31, 2021

Monthly News - March 2021

-pic of the month- Riviera Owners Support Team NZ in Cup Defence

Alva Builds Global Dealer Network

The German based manufacturer of electric yachts and floating solutions has signed contracts with environmentally conscious yachting dealers from across the world. Alva Yachts has seen strong interest from dealer partners in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, Middle East, and ASIA. However North America is particularly strong. This is driven by incredibly strong consumer demand for luxury solar powered catamarans.  “We are very proud to announce our global network and look forward to further grow as a company with the new gained partners all over the world”, Says Mathias May, Alva Yachts co-founder and managing director.  Alva Yachts, a German manufacturer of electric catamarans and yachts, and floating villas, has established their road map for 2021.  Alva Yachts has implemented a network expansion strategy that is underlined by the strong mutual partnership with top industry distributors and dealers.  Yacht Sales International from Fort Lauderdale, with offices also in Cape Coral (Florida), Annapolis (Maryland) and Chicago (Illinois) will be the exclusive distributor for North America.  Arctic Cruise in Norway (ACIN) from Tromsø will be the distributor for Norway and dealer in Sweden, Finland and the Baltic area.  Sunpower Yachts Australia, based in Queensland, is the new dealer for Australia and, thanks to their office network, also for New Zealand, Cyprus and the Ukraine.  MBC Yachts from Dubai, UAE will become Alva Yachts Distributor in the Emirates and the whole Gulf Cooperation Council area (Kuwait, Bahrein, Qatar, Oman).  Alva Yachts is currently in talks with potential Distributors for the ASIA region. This is a key market for the Company, as there's high interest by customers for sustainable and luxurious yachting.  Dennis de Roos (Alva Yacht’s Interim Commercial Director) says; “The main focus is on the growth of the Company and the network expansion, with the implementation of a strong dealer structure around the world. To support this mission, the Alva management has established very important partnerships with distributors and dealers in the key yachting areas of the world, where electric and emission-free sea travel has become a key requirement.”


Azimut Rule the Waves with Volvo Assisted Dock System

The Assisted Docking system gives the captain better control when docking a boat by automating his or her intentions, compensating for some dynamic variables, such as wind and current, and helping the vessel stay on its intended course. Azimut Yachts, one of its first adopters, gives its in-depth insight into this innovative technology. Azimut Yachts was the first of Volvo Penta’s European customers to test the new Volvo Penta Assisted technology. Innovation technology is a focal point for Azimut Yachts: the company has a specific and constantly evolving innovation program that aims to make the customer experience the best possible. Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking fits perfectly within this framework – enabling Azimut Yachts to provide its owners an enhanced cruising experience, making life easier on board and much more intuitive. The two companies have worked together to install the new Assisted Docking technology into an Azimut Atlantis 45 and the system was tested by the Azimut team in Florida.  “I was blown away by the Assisted Docking system,” says Federico Ferrante, President Azimut | Benetti Americas. “Azimut Yachts is a company that’s extremely receptive to innovation. We’re always aiming to change the status quo, to think out of the box. For us Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking was a no-brainer, it’s a game-changer for easy docking. Assisted Docking is just another step towards a better product, a better experience for our customer.”  

Azimut-Benetti Group Sustainable Development

The Azimut|Benetti Research and Development Office took part in the European Project “Paint-it A new environment-friendly manufacturing approach for marine antifouling coating” (LIFE15 ENV/IT/000417 PAINT-IT), a major international research effort co-financed by the European Union through the LIFE Programme in the area of antifouling coatings for hulls, confirming its intention to contribute to a yachting industry that is respectful of the marine ecosystem. With growing enthusiasm and awareness, Azimut|Benetti Group has for years been a leading force in efforts to improve the sustainability of the yacht industry on an ongoing basis. Through its Research and Development Office, the company supports and plays an active role each year in numerous research projects addressed to reducing the environmental impact of the yacht industry.  The latest important initiative to which Azimut|Benetti has made a vital contribution is the Paint-it Project, an interesting research effort led by an international working group with funding from the European Union. The project, supported by several leading industrial players, including not only Azimut|Benetti but also Colorobbia Consulting (Sovigliana-Vinci in the province of Florence) with its Colorobbia Research Centre, and the Rome-based universities of Tor Vergata – Department of Business Engineering (a point of excellence in this sector) and “Niccolò Cusano” – Department of Engineering, has led to the development of several innovative non-toxic antifouling coatings for marine applications featuring a high level of environmental sustainability, because no biocides harmful to aquatic species are released into the marine environment, unlike traditional antifouling coatings, which leach biocides based on the toxic action of copper compounds and other similar organic/metallic substances. As well as eliminating biocides, these coatings also have a significant environmental impact in terms of lower energy use, greenhouse gas generation and waste production, by reducing the need for hull maintenance, and of greatly reduced CO2 emissions.  The scope of this project isn’t limited to the yachting industry. In addition to the marine sector, the formula tested can be used in civil engineering, in wastewater treatment plants and, more generally, in plants that use water systems in various industrial production processes.  The Research and Development Office’s support for this project forms part of a broader strategy adopted by the entire Azimut|Benetti Group, which has always had a special focus on the sustainability of the production cycle by concentrating on a series of factors, including close control of the supply chain, the application of the best technological solutions (in terms of hull shape evolution, propulsion systems and the choice of materials, including Carbon Tech), the study of yacht disposal processes, and sponsorship of various associations with a mission to control and reduce the impact of the industry on the environment, including the Blue Marine Foundation and the Water Revolution Foundation.  This commitment not only represents a fundamental pillar of the corporate culture, but is also a response to the latest market trends driven by the new generation of owners, who are increasingly determined to enjoy their relationship with the marine environment in a more respectful, caring and aware way.


Beneteau Roadshow

With spring on its way, Beneteau is launching a Beneteau Roadshow, a big tour of key European ports to meet up with boating enthusiasts. From 23 April to 20 June 2021, Beneteau and its dealer network will organize visits and private sea trials to help you plan your boating programme. During the roadshow, our new models from our sailing yacht and motorboat ranges will be on show ashore and afloat. Depending on the port, sea trials may be available. These require an appointment and the observation of local health and safety guidelines. Mark the dates in your diaries! You will find us in Saint Gilles Croix de Vie from 30 April to 2 May, then in Marseille from 12 to 16 May, followed by Lorient from 28 to 30 May, in France. Also in Bruinisse, the Netherlands, from 23 to 25 April, in Rome, Italy, from 7 to 9 May, in Oslo, Norway from 28 to 31 May, Stockholm, Sweden 4 to 7 June and in Hamble, in the United Kingdom, from 18 to 20 June 2021. The roadshow will end in Heiligenhafen, Germany, from 1 to 3 and from 8 to 10 October.


Formula Earns Customer Satisfaction Awards 2020

Formula is pleased to announce it has once again been recognized for excellence in customer satisfaction in NMMA’s 2020 Customer Satisfaction Index program in the categories of: Fiberglass Outboard Boats, Sterndrive Bowrider Boats and Sterndrive Cuddy & Express Boats. Congratulations to the Formula Team for building a superior product and providing excellent customer service!  The Marine Industry CSI Awards program honors participating manufacturers that actively measure customer satisfaction and pursue continuous improvement to better serve the customer. Award recipients have achieved and maintained an independently-measured standard of excellence of 90 percent or higher in customer satisfaction over the past year, based on information provided by customers purchasing a new boat or engine.


Mimi Signs Agreement with Dutch Dealer

Confirming its growing success on the North European market, Gozzi Mimì has signed a partnership with the Dutch dealer Watersport Paradise: the company, based in Helmond (Eindhoven), will distribute the shipyard’s entire range in the Netherlands and Germany. Gozzi Mimì and Watersport Paradise have signed an important collaboration agreement which confirms the fast-growing success of the Napoli based shipyard in Northern Europe. The dealer, based in southern Netherlands, where it has a large showroom and a 5,000 square metre workshop, will distribute Gozzi Mimì boats in the Netherlands and Germany.  Gozzi Mimì’s boats have always been highly appreciated in this geographical area with its solid nautical tradition, which finds in these models the great building skills and appeal of Made in Italy. Thanks to its high level of reliability and the appeal of its traditional yet innovative design, the hallmark of designer Valerio Rivellini, the shipyard’s entire range is perfectly suited to navigating the river canals of the Netherlands and other North European countries.  Watersport Paradise is a well-known Netherlands company which has been providing various services, as well as sales, assistance and maintenance for the past three decades: this agreement therefore marks a new step forward in Gozzi Mimì’s internationalisation strategy, which envisages the signing of other partnerships in the coming months.


MJM New High-Tech Facility

MJM are excited to announce that the new, high-tech manufacturing facility in Washington, NC is now up and running.  The whole new factory features 200,000 square feet of size, and addresses the companies current production needs.  MJM where up till this day build at Boston Boatworks.


MonteCarlo Yachts Strengthens its Customer Orientated Approach

In this atypical year, Monte Carlo Yachts continues to strengthen its customer oriented approach and is about to deliver different customized MCY models on International markets, including the first MCY 105 unit reaching Australia. A distinctive tailor-made attitude aimed at an enhanced customer experience has always been Monte Carlo Yachts’ hallmark. In the next months, the Italian shipyard will be delivering several MCY models, which fully address the needs and the desires of each owner and are distinguished by high levels of comfort and safety on board. The custom-made yachts cover various sizes of the MCY Collection and are destined to different markets around the world: from the Mediterranean area, to the Great Lakes area in North America, reaching also the Asian Market, thanks to the MCY 70 Skylounge unit recently sold in Hong Kong. Each model presents distinctive customization options both in the exterior and interior arrangements as well as in the decor, according to the owners’ preferences and personal way of enjoying life onboard. Furthermore, the second part of the year will see a brand new MCY 105 unit reaching Australia, early enough for the start of the season in the southern hemisphere. The unit will find home in the exclusive setting of Rose Bay Marina, a fascinating, high-end location in between the iconic Sydney harbor and the world-renowned Bondi Beach. “The Company is excited about this quite unique event, as it is the first time that the Monte Carlo Yachts flagship reaches Australia”, explains Sergio Loiacono, MCY’ Sales and Marketing Director. “The shipyard has been able to accomplish this ambitious goal thanks to a proven capability to constantly meet the customers’ expectations in terms of levels of customization and delivery time.” The possibility to respect the parameter set by the client, which consisted in a short delivery time without renouncing to fulfil each and every dream of the customer, has been crucial to close the deal. Indeed, the owner had a very clear idea of the customization process he wished to experience and at the same time he needed to have the yacht delivered in time for the start of the Australian season. Thanks to an innovative Naval Architecture and a leading-edge Production Process, Monte Carlo Yachts offers to all sea-lovers the opportunity to create the yacht of their dreams without having to compromise on quality and on delivery time. Once again, the Italian shipyard demonstrates its proactive and dynamic nature, as well as the loyalty to its values that always put the owners and their satisfaction at the center of each project.


Riviera Owners Support Team NZ in Cup Defence

A flotilla of 90 Riviera luxury motor yachts and more than 600 Riviera family members and their guests made a spectacular sight as they cruised through Auckland Harbour last weekend in support of Emirates Team New Zealand.  The impressive armada of enthusiastic Riviera owners, one of the largest ever assembled in the 41-year history of Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder, was organised by New Zealand representative R Marine Flagship.  The flotilla featured Riviera motor yachts from 34 feet to 72 feet in length cruising from the Auckland Harbour Bridge on Saturday morning (March 13) heading to prime vantage points for the much-anticipated day’s racing in front of North Head and Rangitoto Island.  The motor yachts headed in a two-by-two configuration creating two separate convoy lines more than 2km long. Each line was led by Riviera’s flagship 72 Sports Motor Yachts, with another two at the end of the convoy.  Dealer principal of R Marine Flagship Dean Horgan said the impressive line of motor yachts heralded the start of a weekend of camaraderie and enjoyment by the Riviera family as the Cup racing took place.  “It was a wonderful opportunity for Riviera owners to share such a great event with their friends and the Riviera family while watching the fast-paced action unfold,” said Mr Horgan.  “We had an overwhelming response to this special outing for our Riviera motor yacht owners with 90 yacht enthusiastically attending on the day. The support and passion for this exclusive event was incredible.”  “In fact, this was the largest gathering of Riviera’s since our record-breaking raft-up in February last year.”  That raft-up in February marked the start of celebrations in 2020 for Riviera’s 40 years of evolution with a record flotilla of 106 Riviera luxury motor yachts joined together at Awaawaroa Bay, Waiheke Island, to create a massive circle measuring 234-metre in diameter.  Leading the Auckland Harbour flotilla on their Riviera 72 Sports Motor Yacht Auspicious were Peter Baker and Jacci Serville. Mr Baker and Ms Serville said the organisation and support from the R Marine Flagship team ensured a memorable experience for everyone.  For Mike and Jolene Kennedy on their Riviera 51 Enclosed Flybridge Koenig, the event was a surreal experience.  Bringing up the rear of the convoy on their Riviera 72 Sports Motor Yacht Slainte were Phil and Colleen Kenny.  Riviera has a very strong following in New Zealand with more than 600 motor yachts now cruising local waters since the arrival of the first Riviera in 1984.

Riviera Escape to Ladbroke Island

R Marine Crawley of Runaway Bay in Queensland, representing Australia’s largest luxury motor yacht builder Riviera, recently led an impressive fleet of 31 Riviera motor yachts on a long weekend making their way to a sheltered anchorage on North Stradbroke Island for ‘the most relaxing’ long weekend escape.  The sun sparkled silver on the Gold Coast’s Broadwater as most of the group gathered north of Sovereign Islands on the Saturday morning. Greeted by Ben Crawley and idyllic conditions, they were led north for a leisurely morning’s cruise to Deanbilla Bay on ‘North Straddie’.  On arrival, Lyn and Stewart relaxed into their anchorage near Dunwich while the Crawley team set up barbecue facilities on a nearby secluded beach.  The weekend’s company was also a pleasure for Lyn. Aboard the 31 Riviera motor yachts were nearly 100 people who had the opportunity to relish the weekend affair.  For Jenny and Russell Paul on their third Riviera, a 6000 Sport Yacht named Opal, the weekend’s socialising was also a drawcard, on top of the seafood!  Held annually, this year’s Seafood Spectacular boasted fresh prawns direct from the trawler and freshly shucked oysters among other mouth-watering delights, accompanied by live music.  The Pauls have owned Riviera motor yachts for a decade and experience trips organised by R Marine Crawley have become a big part of their boating life.  Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst commended the team at R Marine Crawley for organising another memorable weekend escape for motor yacht owners, their family and friends.


Viking Triple Crown Champ

Team Galati was named back-to-back winners of the Los Sueños Signature Triple Crown Series last weekend. Captain Tony Carrizosa (shown above right, with Carmine Galati Sr. left and Viking’s Pat Healey center) was at the helm of the Viking 58 for all three legs of the 2021 season and also the Viking 62 for the 2020 event. The team really turned up the heat in Leg III with the crew releasing two marlin and an amazing 54 sailfish to win the final leg and clinch the series championship – for the second year in a row! Right on their heels was Eight Eights, a Viking 72, claiming 2nd Place in Leg III with five marlin and 25 sails.

Viking Ladies at Los Suenos

Congrats to Team Galati on their 2nd Place finish in Leg III of the Los Sueños Triple Crown Ladies Only Tournament. Led by Captain Tony Carrizosa, anglers Sharyn Craig, Jane Galati and Debbie McDowell released 18 sailfish for a solid finish and awesome day.

Viking Returning Client

We all followed along as Frank and Mary Ellen Rodriguez built their 92 Enclosed Bridge as it went viral on the Fa La Me’s Facebook page. Then we watched the fun-loving crew having a blast fishing the boat all over the world. Now they are building a Valhalla 41 and sharing the process again. The high-performance center console sports a Kingston Grey hull with a Haze Grey bottom and is powered by quad Mercury Verado 400s.


Wajer Record Breaking Sales in the US

Despite the difficult travel circumstances due to Covid, sales in the US increased tremendously over the past few months. New and Approved Wajers have been sold in Nantucket (Massachusetts), Lake Minnetonka (Minnesota), The Hamptons (New York) and Miami (Florida). Over the upcoming months, we will deliver a Wajer 38 to Portsmouth (New Hampshire) and a Wajer 55HT to the Bahamas. We’re excited to expand more and more overseas and hopefully we are able to visit these great sailing area’s again next summer.

Wajer Nominated International Design and Innovation Awards

We are proud to announce that the Wajer 38|2 has been nominated as a finalist for the International Design & Innovation Awards 2021 in the category 'Best Tender'. The winner, as determined by a panel of distinguished judges, will be unveiled on the 15th of July in Milan, Italy. The award show is organized by Boat International, the most renowned media platform in the international super yachting industry.

March 29, 2021

New Model: Absolute Navetta 64

The already-complete Navetta range has expanded with a tangible expression of generous and open-minded engineering. All of Absolute’s best features have been implemented as well as some amazing onboard innovations. The Navetta 64, The Absolute Pathfinder, like her siblings has the Navetta DNA and it easy to see why. The wide and uninterrupted side-glass window, which runs from the aft mirror to the windshield, outlines her exterior shapes. These are characterized by the significant enlargement of the bow windows and the opening of the side gunwales in the cockpit in the Beach Club version, the transom can be turned from a large storage space into an actual double cabin at the water’s surface sealed tight with a fully-glazed, certified watertight access door. Beach Club by day and VIP cabin with an en-suite head by night: this alchemy is made possible thanks to the placing of the crew cabin, with two berths directly accessible from the second starboard-side door.  Aboard the Navetta 64, all spaces are designed to offer the maximum enjoyment of each cabin, always panoramic and bright, thanks to unprecedented-sized windows. In addition, the spaces are furnished and refined with everything you need to feel just like at home, without any sacrifices. The flybridge has a far greater width than found on any other nineteen meter yacht. On the main deck, the salon is surrounded by frameless glass windows, offering breath-taking panoramas. The comfortable sofas, the large table, the entertainment area, and the galley easily connect to the cockpit. The entire main deck is overlooked by a raised helm and a massive windshield of over three meters, curved and frameless for absolute visibility. Below deck, the master cabin is placed in the bow with a king-size berth, large side windows, and a full-beam head. The VIP suite really stands out: its liveability is astounding and the materials selected are simply exquisite. Furthermore, the third cabin is a double stateroom with single beds. Absolute Navetta 64 is powered by twin Volvo 900hp and or optional 1000hp engines, with IPS pod drives.
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.63 m (64.4ft)
Beam - 5.53 m
Draft - 1.78 m loaded and including propellers
Displacement -  49.4 t loaded 
Fuel Capacity - 3600 l
Water Capacity - 910 l
Max Persons - 16
Accommodation - eight guest berths in four cabins, one crew in one cabin
Engines - 2 x Volvo D13 900hp, D13 1000hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS1200/1350 pod drives
Speed - 27 knots max 21 knots cruise with Volvo 1000hp
Range - 275 nm at 21 knots
Project - Absolute Research Lab
Certification - CE B

March 27, 2021

Project: Cheoy Lee 118 Tradition

Cheoy Lee is going into 2021 with full confidence and some interesting new projects.  One of the recent projects presented is the Overing designed new 118 Tradition.  The triple decked Cheoy Lee 118 Tradition offers a very conservative exterior calling out to some of the late nineties design.  The interior designed by Westhoff offers accommodation for ten guests in five cabins, including an owners stateroom on the main deck.  Located in the forward part of the lower deck will be the crew accommodation for six persons in three cabins, and a lobby with galley and saloon. Another crew cabin with two bunk berths is to be located aft by the beach area.  The Cheoy Lee 118 Tradition is to be powered by twin Cats 1600hp engines which will allow for top speeds up to 26 knots.

March 25, 2021

New Model: Princess S62

Princess present the new S62, a powerful yet elegant sport yacht with sport bridge.  The S62 sleek exterior styling presents a dynamic, agile stance, while an optimised hull form powered by twin Man 1200hp engines will manage speeds up to 38 knots. The S62 also features an electro-hydraulic bathing platform which offers a convenient launch system for tenders, a jet ski, or simply a secluded swimming platform. The Princess S62 offers a galley aft arrangement and an open-plan dining area with sliding doors and a fully opening window leading out to the cockpit. Below deck, six guests are comfortably accommodated across an en-suite full-beam owner’s stateroom and two further guest cabins with the option of an additional crew cabin aft.
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.17 m (62.9ft) with pulpit
LOA - 18.9 m
Beam - 4.87 m
Draft - 1.46 m
Displacement - 28857 kg medium load
Fuel Capacity - 3250 l
Water Capacity - 603 l
Accommodation - six guest berths in three cabins, optional one crew cabin berth
Engines - 2 x Man V12 1200hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 38 knots max
Project - Olesinski

March 23, 2021

Project: Nordhavn N625

Nordhavn Pacific Asian Enterprises, is excited to announce a new model addition in its line-up of passage-making yachts. The Nordhavn 625 will be a twist on the current Nordhavn 60 hull. What helps keep Nordhavn at the top of its game is the continual push to move its designs forward. We have seen this in the past with the N52 from the N47, the N60 and 63 from the N55, the N68 from the N64, the N76 from the N72, and the N96 from the 86. By refreshing existing hulls, it allows the company to efficiently introduce updated, modern offerings. The N625 will be a combination of what’s working incredibly well for Nordhavn right now: the new model is based on the very popular Nordhavn 60 and will employ some of the same bulk production techniques being used with the N41 and 51 builds. Despite a number of Nordhavn 60 orders on the books, Nordhavn co-owner and Chief of Design Jeff Leishman saw an opportunity to further improvise the model’s proven hull. It has sustained extraordinary success beginning with the Nordhavn 55, and is also used as the basis of the Nordhavn 63. More than 100 of the hull’s three iterations combined have been sold.  The result is a fresh, modern exterior that’s in keeping with the sleeker feel Leishman has been injecting into his latest models. The Nordhavn 625 will maintain the same footprint as the N60, but will also feel entirely different, said Leishman. As a result of his “cleaning up the lines”, the flybridge is slightly bigger, the windows in the cabins will be bigger, and some seating has been added to the foredeck. Like the N60 and N63 before her, the N625 will have three cabins, two below and one behind the wheelhouse. The N625 also takes a nod from the Turkish built N41 and N51 designs, utilizing a production boat-approach to ordering. She will have more equipment and features as standard which equates to a more resourceful buy. The spec won’t be as strict as her smaller sisters but certainly the boat won’t be as customizable as the 60 and 63. The boat will be built by Nordhavn’s partner factory, South Coast, at their brand new Taiwanese facility. South Coast, which also builds the N60, ventured into Taiwan in part to combat the Chinese tariff. The N625 will lay up in May, the first boat to be built at the Taiwan location. It is expected to complete by the end of 2021. Current availability is for hull number three. 

March 21, 2021

Tornado New Web Site

Italian Rome boat builder Tornado presents it's new World wide web showroom.  Tornado was founded by Carlo Marchiolo in 1968 building his 35 feet powerboat inspired to the US Cigarette's design. This boat will take Marchiolo to a Class 3 title just a few months later in 1969, and is followed with more Tornado wins in the seventies, of which the most significant is the Wills Trophy with Italian driver Vincenzo Balestrieri on the helm. The success on the race circuits makes Tornado produce boats for those desiring good sea handling, high performance, and comfort combined with a classic no frills lines. In 1977 during the Genoa boat show Marchiolo meets with renowned designer Tom Fexas, to whom Tornado commissions six new projects. The Fexas design works for Tornado are a 35 for the racing circuits, 36 Hawk, 39 Hawk, Eleven, 44 Express, and the 45. The nineties are followed by more winning success for Tornado, with famous offshore driver Adrianno Panatta taking the 1991 Venezia Monte Carlo with the 38, and again in 1997 with a 45. In 2007 after competition from various bank institutions, and three months of negotiations Michele Prestipino takes over Tornado. Prestipino era is marked by comfort improvements to the top selling 38 and the launch of a 50 model, and a 60 project which has not seen the light. In 2016 Tornado finds a new ownership with Daniele Parisi, three generations boat builder, and founder of the Parisi yard as the new owner. The ownership change continues the Tornado natural evolution of the brand and style and its over four hundred delivered boats. Today's current Tornado line offers five models from 38, to the upcoming 54.  Tornado latest model is the T-Rib 48 launched in the fall of 2020.  The new Tornado web site is available only in Italian language and takes you around with the following buttons; About Us, Models, Services, Tornado Club, Partners, and Contacts.  Tornado is also present in social media with a link at the bottom of the page taking you to its YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Linkedin pages.
Production History;
38 1985-
44 Express 1991-94
45 1995-2012
38 Cruising 2010-15
50 2010-16
50 2018-
T-Rib 48 2020-
45s 2022-
50sr 2023-

March 19, 2021

Project: Raffaelli Shamal 40 HT

Raffaelli present the project for the Shamal 40 HT.  This is the third version of the Shamal which was born in year 2000, in 2006 the model was updated into the Evo version with a new two cabins two head interior cabin layout, and a revised cockpit deck with a spacious exterior galley to port side.  The Evo version also featured FPT 370hp engines, the most powerful engines on the model so far which allowed her to reach top speeds up to 33 knots.  The new Shamal HT will keep the same interior of the Shamal Evo, with the changes coming for a hard top and new large vertical panoramic window in the cabin area.  The Raffaelli Shamal following its launch has been a success story in the Italian used boat market in recent years, due to it being one of the few sport cruisers of twelve meters in length with shaft drive propulsion and a CE A certification.

March 17, 2021

New Model: Palm Beach GT60

Palm Beach Motor Yachts launched their next flagship, the high-performance, high-tech GT60. This new second Palm Beach GT series comes from the mind of yacht designer and CEO Mark Richards, which follows the GT50 in offering a high performance sport yacht platform with high efficiency.  In the first sea trials near the company’s U.S. headquarters in Stuart, Florida, the new GT60 reached speeds exceeding 40 knots at wide open throttle on its twin Volvo 1000hp IPS propulsion engines. Where the GT60 truly shines is in fuel efficiency which allows for a calculated range to travel from Miami to Nassau, Bahamas, in just over 5 hours, burning less than 42% of the total fuel reserves.  The material choices, and their placement in the GT60’s construction means that the boat has a naturally low centre of gravity to aid performance, while the warped semi-displacement hull design takes cues from racing yachts to deliver a soft and stable ride at all speeds. Palm Beach then takes engineering several steps further to ensure perfect balance, running carbon fiber jackshafts from the pods to the mid-mounted engines, ensuring the bulk weight of the blocks are cantered and low.  The GT60 features an enormous single-piece curved glass windshield, large electric side and aft windows in the salon, and full-beam entertaining spaces in both the salon and cockpit. The layouts are practical and modern, while still retaining the true nautical feel of a cruising yacht.  As with all Palm Beach Motor Yachts, customers can expect to enjoy the ability to customize the layouts and available options to ensure their high-performance GT60 is perfectly tailored to their individual needs and desires
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.5 m (64ft)
Hull Length - 17.4 m
Beam - 5.2 m
Draft - 1.14 m
Displacement - 21500 kg
Fuel Capacity - 3200 l
Water Capacity - 1000 l
Accommodation -  four berths in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 725hp, D13 1000hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS950m or IPS1350 forward looking pod drives
Speed - forty knots 35 cruise with Volvo 1000hp, 31 knots cruise with 725hp
Hull Shape - warped semi displacement
Construction - resin infusion with Vinilester resin, and Carbon Fiber reinforcements
Project - Mark Richards

March 15, 2021

Project: Back Cove 372

Introducing the updated Back Cove 372.  The Back Cove 37 was launched in 2009 and has enjoyed an eleven-plus-year uninterrupted run resulting in more than two hundred hulls. When the production moulds for the Back Cove 37 finally gave out in 2020 due to boatbuilding wear-and-tear, the design team seized the opportunity to re-examine the 37 with over a decade of owner feedback and recent design advancements in mind. The result was a boat full of fresh details that earned its own designation, enter the newly redesigned Back Cove 372.  The Back Cove 372 is full of fresh details that are tailored to today’s cruising and boating lifestyles, yet it retains the classic character and heart of a proven winner. The highlights include: a more efficient 24V DC electrical system with less copper weight, resulting in both a lighter boat and increased run time on the bow and optional stern thrusters.  Cummins 600hp diesel engine as standard and a Volvo an option. This adjustment is the direct result of owner preference, with more than 95% of Back Cove 37 owners opting for a larger-than-standard engine since 2009.  Black windshield liner and an upholstered helm pod reduce dangerous and distracting glare at the helm. Further updates to the helm pod include new materials for better durability and stain resistance, increased space for navigation electronics.  Fixed-glazed pilothouse windows replace difficult-to-operate sliding windows, offer enhanced sightlines, and are complemented by a center-opening windshield with opening appliances for smoother operation.  A new aft-facing cockpit seat to starboard, complete with a folding armrest and drink holder, paired with a new salon door to port with a bi-fold window to starboard (above the aft-facing seat). A reconfigured head with expanded medicine cabinet, sizeable over-sink mirror, and redesigned shower stall.

March 13, 2021

New Launch: Rossinavi 70m FR037

 
Italian shipyard Rossinavi has presented in their facility of Viareggio its latest superyacht, the 70-metre FR037, titled m/y Polaris.  FR037 is the largest built so far by Rossinavi and Ice classes, meaning she is able to navigate in extreme ice conditions, including the polar areas. Commissioned by a private client and previously known as Project King Shark, FR037 is a 1,542GT motor yacht developed with an emphasis on yachting lifestyle, able to move from the warm waters of the Caribbean to the sub-zero conditions. Venice-based architecture and design practice Enrico Gobbi – Team for Design, a longstanding collaborator of Rossinavi’s, is responsible for the interior styling and exterior design of FR037. Key design specifications include: owner’s deck with a private terrace crowned by a surrounding waterfall, which gives zen vibes, six meter long infinity pool located aft on the main deck, equipped with a whirlpool system, ample storage space that can accommodate up to six jet skis and two tenders including a ten meter full-custom limousine tender in-house built by Rossinavi, indoor waterfall that flows over a back-lighted onyx wall in the main salon, soundproof cinema room in the main deck surrounded by wall dividers covered with precious crystal staves, and a wellness centre which includes a fully equipped gym, sauna, hammam, massage room, and a yoga area. It is highly unusual for super yacht in the Ice Class category to have an elegant exterior appearance, with this in mind FR037 is positioned advantageously to favour the exploration of unusual and exciting natural environments, such as Polar Regions, without sacrificing sophisticated design or comfort. Rossinavi FR037 also features the latest diesel-electric propulsion. This is of note because the onboard power management allows to valorise the fuel consumptions, giving advantages in terms of performance and emissions. Another worth-mentioning onboard technology is the Satellite Dynamic System that allows the positioning for ‘dynamic anchoring’ wherever needed, even in extreme weather scenarios. The interior design, developed in collaboration with Carlo Lionetti, co-director of Team for Design, is contemporary and enriched by eclectic hints inspired by the client’s personal taste, which include precious coating materials that characterise all areas, along with refined details, prestigious textiles and loose furniture items sourced from high end international brands, bestowing on the whole interior a luxurious and distinctive, yet warm and welcoming, atmosphere.
Technical Data:
LOA - 70.20 m (230.4ft)
Beam - 12.70 m
Draft - 3.35 m
Displacement - 1542 GT
Fuel Capacity - 
Accommodation - twelve guests in six cabins, twenty crew in ten cabins
Engines - 2 x Marelli Motors 1866 kww
Propulsion - Rolls Royce Azipul AZP085 FP pod drives 
Speed - 17 knots max 15 knots cruise
Range - 6000 nm 
Construction - steel hull aluminium super structure
Project - Arrabito naval architecture, Enrico Gobbi Team for Design exterior and interior
Certification - RINA and Lloyds Ice Class

March 12, 2021

Azimut Super Yacht Suffers Engine Failure Outside of Genova

The Italian coast guard informed of this incident which happed on the late afternoon of March 11. An Azimut super yacht of 31 meters in length with British Virgin Islands flag called for a MayDay assistance to the Italian Livorno Coast Guard reporting that it was without engine power, drifting some 56 nautical miles away from the Genova Harbour in rough seas condition.  The Italian coast guard first deployed a helicopter from the Sarzana base in La Spezia, and after confirming that all the crew was in good health started to organize towage operation.  The towing of the Azimut super yacht was completed on the evening of twelfth March with the yacht arrival in La Spezia.
The Azimut in this engine failure is a 105 model produced from 2005 till 2013 in 29 units, to an exterior design of Stefano Righini who has collaborated with the well known Italian name from the early nineties till his retirement in 2018.  The Azimut 105 is  a semi raised pilot house two deck and a half super yacht and offered accommodation in two layouts; ten guests in five cabins with an owners stateroom on the main deck, or the option with a larger living on the main deck and eight guest berths on the lower deck.  Crew accommodation is for five crew in three cabins, two forward one aft.  The Azimut 105 was replaced the Grande 100 in 2012.

March 11, 2021

Project: Riva 76 Perseo Super

Improving a masterpiece with an incredible and long-lasting record of success is a challenge that only Riva can accept and win, thanks to an aesthetic and technological development effort that achieves a perfect balance of past, present and future.  Riva 76’ Perseo Super is the exciting natural evolution of the 76 Perseo, which in recent years has become one of the sport-fly yachts best loved by owners around the world.  The first unit has already been sold and will sail with its owner during Summer 2021.  The result of collaboration between the Product Strategy Committee led by Mr. Piero Ferrari, designer Mauro Micheli the founder of Officina Italiana Design with Sergio Beretta, and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, she has a length overall of 76 feet.  Riva 76 Perseo has a sleek profile with over 40 square metres of glazed surfaces in the hull and superstructure. The exterior styling reprises and enhances the sporty look of the 76 Perseo, with the introduction of new style elements.  Worthy of note is the mahogany and polished stainless steel detailing, a technical and design feature that forms part of the Sarnico-based shipyard’s legacy and pays tribute here to the Riva tradition. One of the main functional design features on this fantastic boat is the glass roof with an opening forward section positioned over the lounge, letting light and fresh air into the space below.

March 9, 2021

New Model: Fairline Targa 45 GT

Fairline Yachts, expands its product range, with the global launch of the new Targa 45 GT. The Targa 45 GT is the evolution of the 45 Open which was introduced as the 43 in 2018.  The 45 GT differs for having a twin saloon on the main deck, and a fully enclosed patio door main deck.  Since launching in mid 2020, the Fairline Targa 45 GT has quickly become one of the most popular models to date thanks to its stunning good looks, innovative design and spacious interior. Another novelty in the Targa 45 GT is the choice of a three cabins and two heads layout.  The Targa 45 GT can be further personalised to have either a mid or forward master cabin, depending on preference. In addition to the adaptable interior layout, the cockpit has been designed with multiple uses in mind, from spending time relaxing in the sun to entertaining friends and family.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.5 m (47.6ft)
Beam - 4.32 m
Draft - 1.15 m 
Displacement - 12.8 t
Fuel Capacity - 1300 l
Water Capacity - 438 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins, or six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 440hp, d6 480hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS600 and IPS650 pod drives
Speed - 32 knots max with Volvo 440hp, 34 knots with Volvo 480hp
Construction - resin infusion
Project - Alberto Mancini
Certification - CE B

March 7, 2021

Project: Austin Parker 85 Ibiza

In the rebranding process, which began in 2020, Austin Parker Yachts, after the launch and sale of Ibiza 44 WA, 52 WA and Mahon 54 MY models, started the production of a superior class yacht, the Ibiza 85. This project flagship of Austin Parker is a 27-meter sporty style yacht, that encompasses class, distinctive style and innovative solutions with a fully custom design and technological proposals never used before on a boat of this size.  The yacht, of which the first unit has been sold, is in an advanced stage of construction, with launch scheduled for next June.  The close partnership with the Fulvio De Simoni Yacht Design, who designs the entire Austin Parker line, has created a yacht that encompasses both the wishes of the owner and the requests of the Shipyard, proposing an out of the ordinary layout, not only for the design and partitioning of spaces but also for the technical solutions adopted on board.  The layout suggested by the design lines is streamlined, elegant and sporty and does not let you imagine the enormous spaces that have been created in the cockpit, deckhouse and above all below deck.  Unlike other sports yachts, dedicated exclusively to young customers, the Ibiza 85, thanks to the technical solutions adopted on board, is also the ideal boat for more mature owners.  The first striking feature is the possibility of transforming the freedom created by the total opening of the saloon, in continuity with the huge cockpit that measures 15 meters in length, between the helm station and the bathing platform, into a "sedan", simply operating with electric controls and hydraulic movement: two side windows and the large glass door at the stern that closes and protects the saloon, emerging from the "retractable" position.  The cockpit is equipped with a sundeck, under which there is the hangar that houses the tender and other accessories, as well as a dining area with a central table and ten seats.  Under the streamlined hard-top, sofas and furniture equipped to serve the dining area and equipped with refrigerators and freezers.  The helm station, as befits a yacht of these high standards, has two pairs of seats, all independent, to accommodate the pilot, co-pilot and two guests in comfort and safety, considering the acceleration and performance that are achieved.  The bow is accessed through comfortable and safe protected passages, walk-arounds, on the same floor as the saloon, to best access a large area equipped with a "U" shaped sofa, two convertible tables, sundecks and four facing chaise lounges.  A beam of 7 meters, combined with a length of over-all of 27 meters of the super sport yacht, made it possible to satisfy the owner's requests to obtain five independent cabins; three double, two twins, each equipped with bathroom and shower, a large kitchen and three crew quarters, completely separate and equipped with independent services, enhancing endless possibilities of the custom construction.  As a true super sport yacht, the Ibiza 85 is equipped with two latest generation 2000hp Man engines and Arneson surface transmissions which gives an estimated cruising speed between 38 and 40 knots with a maximum of 45.

March 5, 2021

New Model: Horizon E81

A new model for the popular Horizon E Series has made its debut on the U.S. market. Recently launched, the brand new E81 incorporates the sleek E Series superstructure design atop a beamy hull. As is the case with many of Horizon’s new yacht models, the custom E81 was born from the requests of her experienced owners, who were looking to move up from their current yacht and approached Horizon to design a spacious vessel that suited their cruising lifestyle. Currently under construction, Hull Two will feature an enclosed bridge design and is on schedule to deliver to her American owners in the late Fall of 2021.
Technical Data:
LOA - 25.78 m (84.7ft)
Waterline Length - 22.2 m
Beam - 6.25 m
Draft - 1.82 m
Displacement - 69.8 t
Fuel Capacity - 8706 l
Water Capacity - 1135 l
Accommodation - eight berths in four cabins, two crew in one cabin
Engines - 2 x Cat C32 1600hp
Propulsion - line shaft

March 3, 2021

Project: Azimut Magellano 66

With the recent debut of the 25Metri, followed by the announcement of the arrival of the 30Metri, the Magellano collection is enjoying a moment in the spotlight. They say good things come in threes, and indeed, the first unit of the new Magellano 66 will touch the water in Spring, and happily, that is just around the corner.  Like its bigger siblings, the new Magellano 66 manages to combine timelessness with modernity, and belongs to the carbon tech generation, but just what is it that makes this Navetta so special? If we had to choose just one element, it would most definitely be the internal layout, which, thanks to the boat’s generous dimensions, offers an extraordinary level of comfort and versatility.  The spacious day zone is designed to optimise onboard living, distributed over a single level, with vast windows creating an airy, light-filled environment.  Owners wanting to clearly delineate crew and guest areas can do so, no mean feat in a 66-footer. A sliding door separates the pilot station and galley from the salon, while access from the Main Deck to owner and guest accommodation is via a decentralised stairway, ensuring total independence and privacy.  On the lower deck, in addition to the owner’s suite and two guest cabins, there is a fourth cabin which can be fitted out as a storage area or with bunk beds.  Outside, there is also no shortage of space, and there is no better example of this than the impressively large flybridge, with a stern lounge area that can also incorporate an American bar.  Versatility is again to the fore with the cockpit, where the dining zone can be transformed into a spacious relaxation zone where the owner and guests can stretch out in the shade, just a few tantalising metres above the water.  The second-generation Dual Mode hulls delivers smooth cruising even in moderate seas, and outstanding stability whether you’re in displacement mode or steaming along at the maximum speed of 23 knots.  The Magellano 66 is powered by a pair of Man 850hp engines, is EC category class A and comes with an HTS declaration, attesting that it was designed to and meets rigorous High Technical Standards.

March 1, 2021

Americas Cup Classic

The 36th Americas Cup is in full swing, with the Prada Cup ending on Sunday 21st February and Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team winning over Ineos Team UK, with a convincing 7 - 1.  This is the third time an Italian team and boat will be in the final of the Americas Cup, following the first of Il Moro di Venezia in 1992 in San Diego, and Prada Luna Rossa in 2000 in New Zealand.  The Italian Luna Rossa has been very consistent and has since 1997 never stopped competing in the Americas Cup, making it also in the Challengers final in 2007. 

As is with everything in current times even the Americas Cup had Covid-19 as it's protagonist, with the postponing of day three, which was supposed to happen on 17th February creating quite an issue due to a Tier Three lock down being enforced in New Zealand.  Interestingly the defender Emirates Team New Zealand also sided with Ineos Team UK, who wanted race to be postponed till the situation gets back to normal, going against written protocols to race with closed doors.  Ultimately Luna Rossa gave an ultimatum and racing reassumed on Saturday 20th.  

Now the Americas Cup challenge between Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team and Emirates Team New Zealand is scheduled for the 6th March, with two rounds of racing expected on the opening and another two the following day.  Luna Rossa has shown good speed in the challenger series.  Can she keep up with the defender? For that answer we will have to wait six days.