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.

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