September 5, 2011

Project: Bertram 64

Bertram presents the project for a new 64 model, which is set to launch in Fort Lauderdale 2011 end of October and in my understanding should replace the 630 constructed in about fifty units since 2004.  Again designed by Zuccon, with the Ferretti Group team the 64 continues the touches of new president Alton Herndon who puts his experience to good use to make this new Bertram one of the best sport fishing yachts in this size.  These touches are already visible as the recent improvements shown in the 540, and will be seen in other models of the range. For the new 64 a curved smooth reverse shear line is shown again, but the designers also opted for a massive aft deck fish battling area which measures just short of two hundred square feet. The 64 will also involve options as large view windows in the center or a clean hull as the above rendering shows.  Accommodation details have not yet been announced.  Power is from standard twin Cats 1676hp or optional 1925 or 2001hp MTU.  With twin Cats 1925hp top speed is 40 knots.     

Powerboat OGP - Siracusa, Sicily Grand Prix

RACE ONE
Furnibo, piloted by Pierre Colpin and Frank Hemelaer, triumphed during an exhilarating opening race of the UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix, leading home Swedish-American team Lucas Oil. In the Supersport class, Federico Montanari, Alfredo Zanardo and Giambattista Gabriele in Jolly Drive took the chequered flag in commanding fashion.
As the green flag dropped on the first of this weekend’s shorter sprint races, high temperatures made for an exhausting ride. As the boats powered across the Ionian Sea throwing up spectacular rooster tails, it was the Belgian 2B1 Racing Team in Furnibo that stole a march on the field, pulling away to lead comfortably into the first buoy.
However, the Stirling-powered Lucas Oil boat of Michael Silfverberg and Nigel Hook was quickly on their tail and launched a challenge for the lead but could do nothing to catch the current Evo class leaders.
The German Searex team, in third, had made a good start but engine problems later forced them to retire. As the race moved into the closing stages, Furnibo had firmly secured their place on the top step of the podium with Lucas Oil having to settle for second.
Meanwhile, in SuperSport, Italian’s Jolly Drive showed the early pace, gaining good speed from the start and building a significant lead by the end of the first lap, with Karelpiu’ tucked in second place ahead of SIF. It wasn’t long though before the experienced Renato Guidi, Stefano Acanfora and Vittorio Foglia Manzillo reeled in and then passed the Mercury-powered Fountain, before settling into second place for the remainder of the race. Despite one last charge by Karelpiu’ in the closing stages, the father and son pairing of Guieseppe and Antonio Schiano di Cola, alongside Francesco Calo, finished in third.
UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix (Round 03) PROVISIONAL
Sprint Race Results – Evo Class
Pos. — No. — Boat Name — Nat. — Time — Pts.
1 — 33 — Furnibo — BEL — 20
2 — 77 — Lucas Oil — SWE — 16
66 — Hercules Sagemann — DEU – DNF
Sprint Race Results – SuperSport Class
1 — 06 — Jolly Drive — ITA — 20
2 — 38 — SIF — ITA — 16
3 — 81 – Karelpiu’ — ITA — 12
RACE TWO
Jolly Drive, the Yanmar-powered Italian powerboat took its second consecutive victory in the SuperSport class of the UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix to make a decisive move in the quest for the world title; an achievement they last accomplished in 2005. On a glass-like surface, Federico Montanari, Alfredo Zanardo and Giambattista Gabriele demonstrated the boat’s preference for flat waters, leading from start to finish. Behind them SIF and Karelpiu looked evenly matched and an intriguing battle for second place developed. That was, until on lap three the Mercury-powered Donzi of SIF took control when their rival missed a buoy. Despite making a swift course-correction, the gap was just too great for the Fountain boat despite making up significant ground over the 46 nautical mile Sprint course. All three Italian boats crossed the line within a few lengths of each other, suggesting that the fight for the season’s spoils will continue right down to the wire. In Evo, the tables were turned upside-down as the Lucas Oil Scandinavian Offshore Challenge of Michael Silfverberg and Nigel Hook took a first win of the season from the German Searex team, with Belgian boat, Furnibo failing to complete the required 70 percent race distance. The race had looked to be firmly in the grasp of Siegfried Greve and Douglas Verbanck in Hercules Sagemann, who had taken the lead from Lucas Oil on lap two, only for the German team to relinquish first place in the closing stages. Before today’s race, Furnibo, piloted by Pierre Colpin and Frank Hemelaer had dominated the championship with three consecutive wins. That lead is now fragile; the performance of Searex and the win for Lucas Oil, now under the supervision of the US powerboating legend Jerry Gilbreath, suggests that this won’t be the last win for the team.
PROVISIONAL Sprint Race Results
Evo Class
Pos. -- No. -- Boat Name -- Nat. -- Time -- Pts
1 -- 77 -- Lucas Oil -- SWE -- 00:37:50:87 -- 20
2 -- 66 -- Hercules Sagemann -- DEU – 00:38:10:44 -- 16 
- --  33 -- Furnibo -- BEL -- DNF -- 0 UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix (Round 04)
SuperSport Class
1 -- 06 -- Jolly Drive -- ITA -- 00:36:54:27 -- 20
2 -- 38 -- SIF -- ITA -- 00:36:58:04 -- 16
3 -- 81 – Karelpiu’ -- ITA -- 00:37:00:86 -- 12
RACE THREE
The disappointment of yesterday’s engine problems were short lived for the Belgian 2B1 Racing Team as Furnibo, the Mercury-powered Fountain returned to form, taking the third and final race and the UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix Evo title ahead of Lucas Oil.
The race had looked to be a foregone conclusion, with Furnibo building a substantial lead on the opening lap, but Michael Silfverberg and Nigel Hook in Lucas Oil began to unleash the potential of the Silverhook boat and close the gap. With their Stirling engines at full-chat, it looked like the pair could take the lead.
For eight laps the boats were a rooster tail apart, the defining moment coming with an opportunistic manouvre by the Belgians as four boats arrived at a buoy together. The Fountain dived ahead of two slower SuperSport boats with Lucas Oil forced to hold off, losing momentum and eventually the race. The German Searex Racing Team eventually retired with an alternator problem but not before posting five fastest laps. It was one of those days!
In SuperSport, another intriguing and compelling race unfolded with a three-way battle for the lead. Federico Montanari, Alfredo Zanardo and Giambattista Gabriele had started the race in dominant fashion and were on course to make it a weekend hat-trick for Jolly Drive but the Mercury-powered Fountain of Karelpiu and Donzi of SIF were definitely ‘at the races’.
The three Italian crews battled hard from start to finish providing close-fought action throughout. For most of the race only seven seconds separated the three Italian boats until SIF was forced to retire. The leading two boats continued to battle nose-to-rooster tail right up to the chequered flag, Karelpiu having stolen the lead with just three laps remaining. Today’s win brings the RG87 Racing Team within eight points of Jolly Drive at the seasons half way point and despite losing the race won the SuperSport class of the UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix.
With both Championship titles still in contention, it is all to play for as the teams head to Milazzo in two weeks time. This inaugural Ocean Grand Prix season promises to go down to the wire, providing a nail-biting spectacle and world class racing action.
UIM Siracusa Ocean Grand Prix
Evo Class – PROVISIONAL Results
Pos. — No. — Boat Name — Nat. — Pts.
1 — 33 — Furnibo — BEL — 40
2 — 77 — Lucas Oil — SWE — 32
3 — 66 — Hercules Sagemann — DEU — 20
SuperSport Class – PROVISIONAL Results
1 — 06 — Jolly Drive — ITA — 56
2 — 81 – Karelpiu’ — ITA — 44
3 — 38 — SIF — ITA — 32
UIM Ocean Grand Prix Powerboat World Championship
Evo Class Standings
Pos. — No. — Boat Name — Nat. — Pts.
1 — 33 — Furnibo — BEL — 85
2 — 77 — Lucas Oil — SWE — 65
3 — 66 — Hercules Sagemann — DEU — 43
4 — 47 — Silverline — GBR – 12
SuperSport Class Standings
1 — 06 — Jolly Drive — ITA — 98
2 — 81 – Karelpiu’ — ITA — 90
3 — 38 — SIF — ITA — 48

September 4, 2011

Project: Princess 98 Motor Yacht

Princess presents the project of the new 98 Motor Yacht what will be the new flagship of the Flybridge range, and second third in size of all the fleet behind the 40 and 32M.  The 98 Motor Yacht in my understanding should also be a replacement to the well received 95 launched in 2007.  The 98 Motor Yacht is based on the old model but will offer some important modifications.  For example inside will be the choice to  have a designer made interior with furnishing and fitting from Fendi Casa.  But exterior differences are also to be found from a more extended in length larger bathing platform, to two extra bigger vertical port holes in the full beam owners cabin.  The lower decks in the 98 Motor Yacht should offer just as the 95 a choice of a four of five cabin interior.  Power options for the 98 Motor Yacht are not announced but I do imagine them to be again similar to the 95 with the largest twin MTU 2434hp choice give a top speed of about 29 knots.  

September 3, 2011

New Model: Picchiotti 55 M Vitruvius Ice Class

Picchiotti part of the Perini Navi Group launch the second of the Vitruvius Ice Class series, with the 55 M named M/Y Galileo G.  The new Picchiotti 55m is again a design to Philippe Briand and features the BOS hull shape and a hard to find even with Super Yacht of these dimensions an ABS Class IB which makes her able to navigate on ice and in the North West Passage between the North Atlantic and Pacific oceans.  Her construction is also unique featuring a protective ice belt around the water line with extra reinforcement in the bow and to stern.  The 55 M Vitruvius also features a 3D monitor system which can detect submerged or semi merged items up to a distance of 1 km.
Technical Data:
LOA - 55 m (183ft)
Waterline Length - 54.33 m
Beam - 10.39 m
Draft -  3.20 m
Displacement - 753  full load
Fuel Capacity - 152000 l
Water Capacity - 20000 l
Accommodation - 10 guest berths in 5 cabins, 12 crew in 7 cabins
Engines - 2 x Cats 3512C 1573hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 16 knots max, 11 knots economic cruise
Range - 9000 nm at 11 knots
Hull Shape - BOS Briand Optimized Stretched
Construction - steel hull, alumimium super structure 
Project - Phillipe Briand
Certification - ABS: Malta Cross A1 Yachting Comm.Service, AMS+MCA,LY2 Ice Class IB

September 2, 2011

New Model: Pantera 41

Pantera presents it's largest ever launched model, what is the 41.  The hull number one was actually a race only dedicated version for the Endurance Powerboat series of the UIM.  Hull two is a pleasure version as shown above and features the same deep Vee hull with 24 degrees dead rise aft and two steps. Accommodation is for the usual powerboat layout with a forward berth and a saloon, sleeping a total of four.  A separate shower head, and a  galley are to be found on the entrance.  Performance is dependant on engines but the above version with the smallest and standard twin Mercury petrol gas of 525hp each reaches 73 knots, 85 mph of top speed. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.39 m (40.8ft)
Beam - 2.54 m
Draft - 0.81 m to keel
Displacement - 4762 kg
Fuel Capacity - 870 l
Accommodation - 4 berths
Engines - 2 x Mercury Racing EFI 525hp 
Propulsion - Mercury Bravo 1XR Stern drive with five blade propellers
Speed - 73 knots  with Mercury 525hp
Hull - deep Vee 24 degrees dead rise with two steps

Project: Beneteau 49 Flyer Gran Turismo Fly

Beneteau presents the project for the new 49 Flyer Gran Turismo Fly, a model which is an evolution of the 47 Monte Carlo Fly.  This previous Beneteau range now being replaced by the Flyer series.  The 49 Flyer Gran Turismo Fly main difference will be an extension of the bathing platform, which now also features a hydraulic up and down movement.  This modification makes it possible to carry two tenders, this including the stern garage.  Obviously a sleek profile is part of this model, along a nearly invisible but quite spacious flybridge.  Another visual difference is to be found on the large view windows for the fore VIP cabin. Accommodation is a choice of two or three cabins below, with a living located on the main deck.  Power is from twin Volvo 435hp with IPS pod drives.

New Model: Sessa C44

Despite the slow down in the World and European economies Sessa has been relentless in the last few years presenting new models, at an impressive rate.  The C44 is in real terms a further development of the fall 2008 presented C43 with the real difference coming to stern, which now features an up and down hydraulic moving bathing platform.  As said in the Sessa press release the C44 will be produced along the C43, at least for now. The C44 will offer the two cockpit layouts as featured on the C43 of C-shaped settee with sunpad and underneath garage, or the larger more socializing E-shaped layout.  The E-shaped settee layout which was optional on the C43 becomes the standard plan of the C44.  In the E-shape plan both settees transform to two sun pads or dine twelve people with tables up in extreme comfort. Unlike the C43 with the other plan of sun pad garage the C44 gives the possibility to carry two private water toys, one on the platform and another in the garage.  Another difference of the C44 is also the propulsion set up with Sessa declaring on the web site that the C44 will only be available with IPS pods, and I think the main reason behind this is the hydraulic moving bathing platform.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.0 m (45.9ft)
Hull Length - 12.90 m
Beam - 3.99 m
Draft - 0.73 m ex props
Displacement - 9800 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 450 l
Water Capacity - 265 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 4 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 370hp, 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS dual propeller forward looking pod drives
Hull - planning Vee shape with spray rails, 16 degrees dead rise aft
Project - Christian Grande
Certification - CE B

September 1, 2011

Project: Greenline GL40

Greenline present the project of the GL40 model, what is another explorer cruiser based on her smaller sister, the GL33. Introduced in September 2009, the Greenline 33 has found over 120 owners throughout Europe in the first year, and has been since awarded with numerous boat and environmental awards. Designed by Seaway and J and J Design from Slovenia the Greenline GL40 is a larger yacht of similar looks and the same philosophy as her smaller 33 sister: with ease of handling, safety and seaworthiness for long lasting well-being on board. The low-drag energy-saving Superdisplacement hull coupled to hybrid diesel electric engines, and solar technology brings unknown efficiency in for the use of this explorer cruiser. The GL40 will offer a six berth sleeping accommodation located in two cabins below, plus a convertible saloon on the main deck.  A single shower head located below serves the guests.  Power is from standard single 75hp which give speeds up to 9 knots.  But further options from a single 165, or 225, and twin 165hp engines give top speeds up to 18 knots.  The electronic engine is 20kw, and gives 20 minutes solo use, and a speed of 7 max, and 6 knots of cruise. 

The Tour

It was may be Pershing which started this officially in 2007 with the 72, but now it seems to be a habit followed by other builders.  Azimut followed it with a long range trial involving half the Med sea of the 74 Magellano, and Ferretti Group did it again with Easea Show last year which involved three yachts; Pershing 64, Itama Fifty Five, and a Riva 52 Rivale.  On the other side of the Atlantic things also got moving and Hatteras and Brunswick also toured the East Coast from North Carolina to the Miami show with the Hatteras 60 Quad Zeus featuring four ZF Zeus pod propelled engines. 
For 2011 it was three builders, a British, Italian and a German who shaken up things; Fairline, Sessa, and Greenline. 
The British Fairline did a tour with a 58 Targa Gran Turismo which also featured an unedited silver colored hull.  The tour involved parts of the South of Spain, Balearic Islands and will finish in the South of France prior to the Cannes boat show. 
Sessa on the other hand did a more challenging job, which involves Italy, Balearic's, and South of France with hull one of the new 45 Fly.  The tour started up in end of July and will finish in August also in Cannes prior to the official debut of the model at one of the most important shows.
Greenline also toured the Italian West Coast with the GL33 starting from a harbour in the center near to Rome and ending in the Ligurian coast in San Remo on July.
As I said last year in another Blogger post, this to me is a very innovative concept and it is cool to see more builders follow the boat touring idea, showing it in a marina near you, and discussing with interested parties on the spot.  It is also, and here may be lies the most important note a more intimate way to show a boat, and discuss with clients, away from the hustle and bustle a show or a normal exposition brings.

August 31, 2011

Monthly News - August 2011

-pic of the month- Cigarette Hits The Loto


Bavaria Presents New Merchandising


Bavaria Nautic Collection, New collection of clothing and accessories from Bavaria. From now on Bavaria offers a wide range of clothing for all sailing and watersport enthusiasts. All articles stand out with the perfect combination of function and design. The different items, like T-Shirts, polos, jackets, sailingshorts, caps and lanyards – impress by high quality and maritime style. The new collection can be ordered at authorized Bavaria partners and the new Online Shop.


Brunswick to Establish Brazil Plant

Brunswick Corporation will establish a manufacturing plant in Brazil to produce boats for South America's largest country and the surrounding region, the company said today in a release. The plant, which is to be located in the Perini Industrial Park in Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil, is planned to have nearly 150,000 square feet of manufacturing space and will eventually employ up to 150 people to produce several Bayliner and Sea Ray sport boats and cruisers, which will be sold through a network of local dealers along with other Brunswick boat brands and models. Brunswick plans to have locally manufactured product available in advance of the 2012 summer boating season. When in full operation, the plant will have the capacity to produce more than 400 boats annually. Brunswick anticipates it will begin hiring to staff its Brazilian operations within the next 30 days and will meet with its dealer base in the next few days.


Cigarette Hits the Loto

Cigarette and its fans enjoyed a busy weekend of powerboating on inland lakes while much of the eastern seaboard was pummeled by Tropical Storm Irene. Two major annual events were fortunate to draw large crowds and many Cigarette enthusiasts for some of the best performance boating of the 2011 summer season. The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout provided entertainment to all who attended to see new speed records set in 2011, but it also provided great entertainment to Aldo Waters who took delivery of his new 39' Top Fish Open at the event. While this is his first Cigarette, Waters was "wowed" by this new 2012 center console model. Its Ferrari paint scheme of "Daytona Nero" accented with "Corsa Rosso" cut a striking silhouette on the Lake of the Ozarks. Down in Lake Lanier, Georgia, the third Castaways Bikini Contestants Get a Light from Cigarette annual Pirates of Lanier Castaways Poker Run brought together another group of enthusiastic powerboaters. Cigarette Racing Team's President and CEO Skip Braver and Pier 57's David Woods, Cigarette's dealer in Pickwick, Tennessee, hosted the Miss Castaways Bikini Contest at the high-tech and high-energy mobile party trailer that Pier 57 added to its fleet last year. Lake Lanier Islands and Sunset Cove was the host property for this event which was recently expanded and enhanced by Lanier World at Lake Lanier Islands, a rocking water park that kept powerboaters up to their ears in water-even after they got off their boats! Lanier Parners of North Georgia, a non-profit organization that benefits area children's charities, is assisted by a prestigious group of sponsors, this year, including Pier 57. The Poker Run and all of its activities create lasting memories for Camp Sunshine's children with cancer and Children of Fallen Soldiers-as well as for the boaters who came to support the causes. This year, a fifth stop was added to the north end of the lake, expanding the range and run and attracting more "heavy metal" as more and bigger boats attended, said John Woodruff, a new Board member for the organization.

Cigarette Makes a Stop to the Emerald Coast Poker Run

This Florida Panhandle tourism hot spot is known for its pristine white beaches and emerald green Gulf waters. The multi-day event is a fund raiser for The Emerald Coast Foundation which serves many area children's charities. A feature of the event is a multi-stop Poker Run, organized by The Florida Powerboat Club at which Pier 57 and Cigarette Racing Team will be up-front and center. Laird is also owner of AJ's Seafood & Oyster Bar, a 26-year institution in the center of the Panhandle, and good friend of David Woods, owner of Pier 57, Cigarette Racing Team's dealer from Pickwick, Tennessee. Woods has been a sponsor of the major powerboating event for over a decade and looks forward to the run as an opportunity to showcase his newest powerboats and socialize with his customers. On the run Pier 57 showed a new 39 Top Gun Unlimited with twin Mercury Racing 700 engines and a 39 Top Fish Open with twin Mercury 300 Verados, both models being among the most popular of the Cigarette Racing Team current line. The Emerald Coast Poker Run features a Captains' Party at AJ's on Friday night, August 12, a main event of the Run which takes place on Saturday, August 13. The weekend-long boat show is also staged at the AJ's dock. The lP Casino in Biloxi is the main sponsor along with Miller Lite, Pier 57 and a number of other key location and media supporters. A Ford F-150 truck, provided by Gary Smith Ford is the grand prize for the Poker Run. The Florida Powerboat Club's Stu Jones announced over 100 boats pre-registered by the end of July and approximately 200 powerboats are expected, filled with fun-seeking participants who add to the Emerald Coast Foundation's coffers.

Cigarette Lip-Ship Performance

Phil Lipschutz lives, eats and breathes Cigarette, and has for over 30 years. His new website, lipship.com, tells the story of his entrée into powerboat racing and how it shaped his life-long career. A collection of videos brings the dealer to life with interviews and historic shots of his early days in racing, and then adds excitement to the boat line-up by showing the beauty and grace of the Cigarette powerboats in action. The website is a pictorial primer on all the models in the Cigarette Racing Team Line, as well as a full picture tour of the boats offered for sale through the dealership. A Boutique of some standard Cigarette gear also offers some proprietary Lip-Ship Performance apparel for customers who enjoy being a part of his network of performance boaters. The Parts library shows the basic replacement parts for routine maintenance and the News page keeps viewers up-to-date on Lip-Ship's customers, their boats and their onboard journeys.


Doral Hot Summer Sale Event

Doral invites clients and fans to visit your nearest authorized Doral Marine Int'l dealership for amazing rebates on its sport boats, cruisers and sport yachts. This offer is valid for are only few selected models left in the show rooms!


Fairline Med Tour 2011

Fairline is touring locations in the western Mediterranean with the 58 Targa Gran Turismo express cruiser, offering boat owners the opportunity to step onboard and view this award-winning express cruiser. The boat being used is the first 58 Targa Gran Turismo to feature a silver hull. The tour started running from 30th July and included visits to the Spanish mainland, the islands of Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca, the south coast of France and north western Italy, before completing the tour in time for the opening day at the Cannes Boat Show (6th September). Invitations to view the 58 Targa Gran Turismo will be given to boat owners at scheduled stopovers with some surprise visits to various bays and harbours en-route. The scheduled stopovers included Alicante and Dénia, Ibiza town, Puerto Portals, Cala D’or, Puerto de Pollensa, before heading to Mahon in Menorca, Cannes, Antibes, Nice, Monaco, San Remo and onto Portofino.


Formula Photo Shoot

Formula boats recently took a crew of 22 members to the beautiful island of Bimini in the Bahamas for the upcoming Model Year 2012 season, and it was a complete success! Although the temperatures were scorching hot each day, it was hard to complain when looking at that gorgeous turquoise blue ocean and the sun glimmering off the Formula hullside—it makes you sit back and just say “wow!” The boats photographed this year were the luxurious 45 Yacht with Sapphire Blue Metallic Imron Designer Graphic, the 40 Performance Cruiser in Black Onyx Metallic Imron, the 400 Super Sport in Black Onyx Metallic Imron, the 350 Sun Sport in Morning Sand Metallic Imron with Tropical Red accents and the all-new sporty 310 FX5 in Black Onyx Metallic Imron with FX accents throughout. The boats performed and looked amazing each and every day on the gorgeous Bimini blue water.


Fountain Captures Master Angler

“The A-Team,” a professional angling team aboard a 38’ high performance Fountain center console fishing boat, took “Master Angler” honors at a fishing tournament certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest. A record-breaking crowd of 2,200 participants flocked to Dauphin Island, Alabama, to compete in the 2011 Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo held July 15-17. By the end of the tournament, 1,992 anglers had checked in at the weigh station, and the Fountain Powerboats “A-Team” had taken the very top prize. Fishing around the clock with minimal sleep, “The A-Team” crew of Alden Thornton, Chris Bazor, Carl Carder, Zack Seals, and Elliot Cain were forced to contend with some of the worst weather in the history of the 78-year tournament as they chased down the winning fish. Meanwhile, Bobby Wade, another angler fishing from a Fountain 38’ center console, weighed a 25.75-pound dolphin to take second place in the Dolphin category.


Mulder Holland Yacht Experience

A select group of Dutch yacht builders and related companies have joined forces in the new Holland Yacht Experience concept. Their goal is to bring the supreme quality offered by the Dutch yachting industry to the attention of a broader audience via joint promotion and representation on the French Côte d’Azur. Mulder Shipyard, along four other renowned family businesses created this new intiative. All the Holland Yacht Experience participants have a long history and a strong focus on continuity within their specific field of expertise. By pooling their resources, the partners offer owners and their representatives a platform that emphasises a diverse offer of yachts and a broad range of services. The recent economic situation has caused a shift in the market, leading to higher demands for yachts that combine high-quality construction, durability and steady value with a strong focus on service and after sales. The companies participating in Holland Yacht Experience have all built their success on precisely these qualities. The concept offers the participating members a base and office facilities on the internationally celebrated main boulevard of Cannes, La Croisette, in the redeveloped harbour of Port Canto. This allows the companies to profile themselves to potential customers in a professional way from a top location on the French Côte d’Azur throughout the year. Visitors to the centre can access detailed information on the products, services and rich history of the member companies. In addition to acquiring information, visitors to the Holland Yacht Experience Centre can acquire a quality yacht, have their boat refitted, order maintenance activities, put their yacht on the market or request a berth, all under one roof and in an accessible way. This makes the Holland Yacht Experience Centre a powerful venture that guarantees carefree sailing pleasure.


Nordhavn North East Open House

The 6th annual Nordhavn Yachts Northeast Open House last week was a great success led by a terrific line-up of yachts and an impressive turnout of Nordhavn prospects. The weather gods smiled down upon us last Friday, July 15th, as we managed to somehow designate the seemingly one humidity-free, sub-90s degree day in the month of July in New England for which to invite Nordhavn clients to inspect our Nordhavn 43, 47, 55 and 64. PAE staff, including company president Dan Streech, and Nordhavn owners alike, assisted attendees as they walked through the boats lined up at the docks situated in front of our Northeast office in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and picked up information and some nifty giveaways thanks to sponsor Pantaeinuys Insurance. Guests were also treated to a replica Nordhavn 75 Expedition Yacht Fisher put together by Fred Heim, a pro model builder and fan of Nordhavns. Although we decided not to launch the boat, the scaled down remote-control EYF powers beautifully through the water (just like the real thing!) and comes complete with actual working thrusters and stabilizerrs.


Overmarine Mangusta Brand Property

Overmarine Group wishes to announce that, in the precautionary procedure started by Mangusta S.r.l., Overmarine S.p.A. and Overmarine Due S.r.l. against SNP Service Navigation de Plaisance Boat Service SA (SNP) part of the Rodriguez Group of Cannes in France, the section of Florence Law Court specializing in the matter of Industrial and Intellectual Property decided to prohibit SNP Service Navigation De Plaisance Boat Service SA with an ordinance dated 13th May 2011 from using the expression and brand “Mangusta” in advertising, on its websites, on its META tags and generally in its work; to prohibit the same company from carrying out any unfair competition like that which has been described in the appeal (not to have informed the market of the cancellation of the contract of distribution with the Mangusta group; having implemented activities which led to the belief that the previous contractual relationship with said group still existed; to have declared to be the owner of the property rights and/or others which have not been better specified for the “Mangusta” brand; to continue releasing advertising messages containing the “Mangusta” brand). Moreover, it was decided that the sum of Euro 10,000 would be paid by the same company and in favour of the claimant companies for each day of delay in carrying out the provision and for every non-observance or violation subsequently ascertained; to arrange for publication of an informative announcement on the website of the defendant www.rodriguezgroup.com, admitting that the exclusive distribution contracts between SNP and Overmarine having as their subject the resale of “Mangusta” brand yachts had been terminated; and lastly to condemn the company for resisting payment of the legal costs sustained by claimants, which are liquidated in Euro 1500 for duties and Euro 2500 for fees, besides reimbursement of general expenses, VAT and CPA as per the law.SNP appealed against this sentence and, on 11th July 2011, the panel of judges rejected the request put forward by SNP, confirming in full that which had been provided for in the sentence of 13th May 2011.Since termination of the contract with SNP in August 2010, Overmarine Group has been selling Mangusta yachts, comprising models 72’ to 205’, both directly and through selected partners.


Pearl Motor Yachts New Interior Designer

Pearl Motor Yachts, one of the UK’s leading luxury yacht builders, has announced a special collaboration with a world renowned British interior designer. Kelly Hoppen MBE is one of the most in-demand interior designers in the country. Kelly has been brought on board to design the luxury interior of the flagship Pearl 75, which will be launched in early 2012. When the top stars of business, sports, film and fashion are looking to create their perfect sanctuary, they know they are in safe hands with world-renowned interior designer, Kelly Hoppen MBE. Kelly creates stunning interior designs for luxury homes, yachts and private jets for an ever-expanding international high-profile client base. The famous ‘Hoppen’ style fuses together the eastern principles of simplicity and balance and the western tastes for sumptuous textures and luxurious finishes. With the expertise and craftsmanship of Pearl Yachts married in with Kelly Hoppen the result is all about the understated luxury of textural fusion.


Riviera CEO Announces Retirement

On 11 August John Anderson the Chief Executive Officer of Riviera, Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury boat builder announced to the company’s 400 strong staff his plans to retire and return to the United States in September.

Riviera Exports Defy Industry Trends

Riviera, Australia’s largest and most awarded pleasure boat builder continues to export defying industry trends with its latest shipment of 10 new boats with a retail value of USD$12.3 million, shrink wrapped in heavy duty plastic and ready for shipping next week to varying ports around the globe. Riviera will export one 4400 Series II Sport Yacht, two 5000 Sport Yachts, two 38 Open Flybridges, two 43 Open Flybridges, one 51 Enclosed Flybridge, one 53 Enclosed Flybridge and one 61 Open Flbyridge to Riviera’s global dealers based in Miami, Puerto Rico, Panama, Sarasota on the west coast of Florida, Seattle and the Seychelles. All boats are retail sold to owners. This achievement is certainly no mean feat given the current economic climate, the strong Australian dollar, lack of government support for the wider manufacturing sector and fierce global competition. Riviera’s brand and communications manager Stephen Milne said the new 53 Enclosed Flybridge was bound for Florida and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in late October where it would be showcased for the first time in the United States. Riviera’s chief financial officer Neal McCulloch said it had been a difficult time for Australian manufacturing and export over the past few years as a result of the economic landscape and more recently the high Australian dollar. Mr Milne said Riviera’s export sales had grown over the past two years with EU$6.3 million in exports to Spain and France and a further USD$4.1 million to Russia, USA and Turkey in the past six months. This latest shipment of 10 boats leaving the Riviera factory next week bound for the Port of Brisbane and Port Botany in Sydney to be loaded onto ships as deck cargo and shipped to their final destinations.

Riviera Dealer Awards

Innovation and creativity in these challenging times has earned R Marine New Zealand, Riviera’s most esteemed Dealership of the Year award. The annual Australia/New Zealand Dealer of the Year awards recognise excellence, outstanding achievement and dedication to Riviera’s loyal owners and brand. Dealers are judged on their ability both to service Riviera customer needs and boats, conduct client events and professional representation of the brand, overall boat sales both of new and pre-owned Rivieras, co-operation with the factory’s business guidelines, ethics and communication with dealer support services, dealership presentation and customer satisfaction. The annual Dealer Awards have been running consistently for the past 17 years. R Marine New Zealand dealer principal Bruce McGill said winning the Dealership of the Year Award would not have been possible without the tremendous effort put in by each and every member of the 18 strong team. Riviera director of brand and communication Stephen Milne said it was pleasing to see a high level of passion and strong sales results in these challenging times.  R Marine Queensland’s service technician Sharm Brown was awarded this year’s award for Service Excellence by an individual in Australia/New Zealand for his dedication and exceptional customer service. Sharm has spent a lifetime in the marine industry, having worked with his father who owned the slipway at Runaway Bay Marina before gaining his skippers ticket in the mid 90s. Sharm has worked on vessels as large as 50 metres and has also owned his own commercial crabbing vessel. Sharm said he enjoyed working for Riviera and he was thrilled to receive the award. R Marine Sydney was recognised for its outstanding sales success with the highest number of boats sold in the region during the past 12 months and dealer principal Michael Joyce was presented with the award for Sales Excellence by a dealership in Australia/New Zealand. This is the 11th consecutive year that R Marine Sydney have been awarded this honour. Peter Devery from R Marine Sydney received the award for Sales Excellence by and individual in Australia/New Zealand for the second consecutive year. R Marine Sydney dealer principal Michael Joyce said it was an honour for his dealership to receive these awards. Peter Devery began his career in the marine industry 13 years ago and prior to that he completed an apprenticeship in the Air Force where he fitted guns and missiles to air craft. Peter said he was proud to be working with Riviera, a world class brand.

Riviera Mystery Weekend

The first clue was a horse shoe, which led Riviera owners Jan and Peter Barr to their mystery anchorage at Horseshoe Bay, Peel Island, which is located in Moreton Bay, east of Brisbane. On board their new 43 Open Flybridge, Sequel, Jan and Peter made the 30 nautical mile journey from the Gold Coast to Peel Island with a fleet of 18 Rivieras ranging in size from 36 to 56 feet for a mystery weekend over the 8th, 9th and 10th of July. After dropping anchor at Horseshoe Bay, Jan and Peter joined 42 fellow Riviera owners on the beach for drinks and hors d’oeuvres where they were given their next clue for the following day’s adventure, which was a tour of the leper colony on Peel Island. Peel Island’s history dates back to the early European settlement in the 1800s when it was used as a quarantine station for new settlers. In the early 19th century to as recently as 1959, Peel Island was a hospice for people suffering from leprosy, which is a chronic disease causing skin lesions and deformities and in 2007 the island became a National Park. Jan said the story of the leper colony was ‘enlightening’. For M360 Sport Cruiser owners Graham and Ann Belby, this was their first R Marine Queensland Experience. Graham said they also enjoyed meeting other Riviera owners and people with whom they had so much in common.


Sealine Aquired by Oxford Investment Group

Sealine International, on 31st August 2011 announced that it has been acquired by private investors, led by The Oxford Investment Group,Inc.  Selwyn together with fellow investor Conrad Prebys (a successful builder, real estate developer and philanthropist from San Diego, California) plan to expand Sealine’s international presence and will be looking to add other marine brands to their portfolio.  Part of the Brunswick Corporation for more than 10 years, Sealine has established itself as a strong and innovative brand, introducing several award winning models in recent years. Sealine will be launching their much anticipated new SC42 Sports Cruiser and C48 Coupe at the forthcoming Cannes, Southampton and Genoa Boat shows.  James Bursey, of the Oxford Investment Group, a marine industry veteran, will be assuming the role of managing director.
Sealine New Sales Director

Sealine is delighted to announce the appointment of Douglas Culverwell as their new Sales Director. Douglas, who has over 14 years of experience in the global motor yacht market, will be taking up his new role on 8th August 2011. Douglas worked for Sealine from 2003 to 2009 heading up the Sales Department before taking up his post as Senior Sales Manager for Princess Yachts.


Sunreef Nominated IYAA Awards

Sunreef Yachts is pleased to announce that two luxury catamarans have reached the shortlist in the International Yacht and Aviation Awards 2012 organized by UK-based design magazine, Design et al. The 70 Sunreef Power DAMRAK II is nominated the Best Motor Yacht up to 25m and the Sunreef 114 CHE for the Best Yacht Interior Design. Winning yachts will be announced during gala dinner in May 2012 in London.


Sunseeker Summer Cruise in Mallorca

The ingredients to making yachting fun include excellent logistical organisation, a carefree high-spirited atmosphere and a social get-together with like-minded Sunseeker friends. This year's popular summer cruise, a permanent fixture in the Sunseeker Germany event calendar, was once again a real success this year. On the 29th to 31st July 2011, a total of 92 Sunseeker clients and friends enjoyed the flotilla of yachts to the Balearic Islands, Formentera and Ibiza. This year's theme incorporated a 'Sunseeker Pirates Cruise', and provided the ultimate pirate experience on water whilst revealing event details via messages in bottles. On the evening prior to the great departure, guests arrived at Port Adriano and got to know one another over cocktails and a barbecue.  On Friday morning, the party of 24 yachts set off in two arrow-shaped groups each with 12 yachts in the direction of Cala Llonga on the east coast of Ibiza for a first stop. Following a lunch break, the cruise headed towards Formentera, the most unspoilt of all the Balearic Islands and famous for its stunning sandy beaches. Many guests took the opportunity to cool off in the crystal clear waters and took the time to relax. An unforgettable image was the impressive sight of the motoryachts anchored in front of the restaurant Juan y Andrea, while the Sunseeker party feasted on delicious seafood specialties. The following day, the flotilla set course for Ibiza and Cala Bassa. Here, fun and games awaited guests in the Cala Bassa Beach Club. Using the ever popular Seabob, the water babies cruised around the beautiful bay and sea, both above and below the water. The flotilla moved on to S'illa des Bosc and anchored there to enjoy the delicacies of the Island later in the day. Stopping for a swim in the enchanting small bay of Cala Benirras, provided the perfect ending to the three day Sunseeker Summer Cruise, along with many happy memories to take home. The Sunseeker Germany team were on hand throughout to assist with any questions and to help guests drop anchor at all times.

Sunseeker Baltic Cruise 2011

Following many requests from Baltic Sea customers, the Sunseeker Germany team arranged a second joint cruise from 6th to 7th August 2011. To ensure clients felt welcome, all guests arrived at the Sunseeker pier at the marina in Neustadt (Germany) on the evening before the great departure, and got to know one another over cocktails and a delicious barbecue. The picturesque sunset provided the perfect start to the event. On Saturday morning, eight motoryachts set course for Poel Island, where in the idyllic marina of Kirchdorf, all 23 attendees enjoyed freshly smoked fish. The flotilla first set off in the direction of Wismar, passing by Europe's largest shipbuilding hall followed by the city marina of Wismar, before the marina of the Baltic Sea resort of Kühlungsborn was reached around late afternoon. Many heads turned when stunning Sunseeker motoryachts arrived at the marina and docked along the North pier, which was exclusively reserved for Sunseeker. The day was perfectly rounded off with a pleasant dinner where guests enjoyed a stunning view across the marina and of the display of Sunseeker yachts. Sunday morning saw the Sunseeker crew organise a VIP shuttle to the five-star Grand Hotel in Heiligendamm where breakfast was served, followed by a guided tour of the luxury hotel. Experiencing yachting together was very well received by all attendees. The Sunseeker Baltic Cruise is certain to be a permanent date in the Baltic Sea's event calendar for the future.


Vicem to Take Part in Major US Boat Shows

Vicem Yachts, Inc. will be participating in all four of the major US boat shows on the east coast this fall. Vicem will be present with its new inventory, as well as yachts from its brokerage division, including Vicem’s and other brands. We invite the press to stop by and visit us at the following venues: Newport International Boat Show – September 15th – 18th with 72 Vicem Classic Flybridge, 58 Vicem Classic Flybridge, 58 Vicem Classic – 3 boats total, Norwalk Boat Show – September 22nd-25th with 72 Vicem Classic Flybridge, 58 Vicem Classic Flybridge – 2 boats total, Annapolis Power Boat Show – October 13th-16th with 72 Vicem Classic Flybridge – 1 boat total, and Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show – October 27th-31st with 72 Vicem Classic Flybridge, 57 Vicem Sportfish – 2 boats total.