New Model: Bertram 64

Bertram's new 64 replaces the since 2003 produced and fifty plus models delivered 630, replacement of the legend that was the Napier designed 60.  The 64 builds and improves the good qualities of the 630, but most of all it builds more on its sportfish battle wagon features thanks to huge input of Bertram president Alton Hendon.  Think of the aft deck now being the largest in this size being 194 squared feet in area, with plenty of storage for the angler being it hobby or competition.  Improved design features are a smoother shear line, with or without center line windows.  So far there is no mention of a lower helm choice, as Bertram's other recent new models as the 540, 511 and 800.  But an enclosed bridge version will be available later on, adding three tons to the weight.  Power is from three engines choices Cats or MTU starting at 1676 till 2001hp.  Cats 1925hp engines will give a fast 40 knots wide open throttle max. 

Technical Data:

LOA - 20.6 m (67.6ft)

Hull Length - 19.4 m

Beam - 19.4 m

Draft - 1.6 m

Displacement - 41t convertible version, + 3t for Enclosed bridge

Fuel Capacity - 7000 l

Water Capacity - 1363 l

Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 6 berths in 3 cabins

Engines - 2 x Cat C32 1676hp, C32 Acert 1825hp, MTU 16v 2000 M91 2001hp

Propulsion - line shafts

Speed - 40 knots max with Cats 1925hp

Project: Giovanni Zuccon lines, Ferretti AYT

Certification - NMEA

www.bertram.com

Improve-it = Bavaria 38 SportHT

Bavaria presents a limited edition High Line version for the 38 SportHT model, and will be limited to fifteen units only including the standard full open 38 Sport. For the SportHT 38 High Line, Bavaria developed an individual and distinctive design as well as new unique features. The silk-grey exterior and the classic navy cushions have been exclusively combined for this special limited release and bestow an exquisite overall look upon this sport cruiser. High gloss kitchen units and the luxurious carpet in the cabin add to the elegance of the yacht. The high quality audio package with speakers in the cockpit as well as the salon will be standard for the High Line what is usually available at extra cost. Presented in 2010 and designed by BMW Group DesignWorks USA the 38 Sport will feature the usual Bavaria attributes of a competitive package, and five engine choices from Mercruiser and Volvo.

www.bavaria-yachtbau.com

New Launch: Benetti 61 meter FB253

New launch in Livorno from Benetti  and its custom megayachts division with hull number FB253, a 61 meters long super yacht titled “Diamonds Are Forever”.  FB253 was launched on Saturday 26th November 2011 at the state-of-the-art Benetti shipyard in Livorno. Benetti 61m FB253 is the boat’s official identification, but for its owner it’s “Diamonds Are Forever”: the official name of the yacht and the personal signature of the established shipowner who has always been a fan of the James Bond saga.  Based on Benetti naval architecture and engineering, the elegant external line of the new 61m FB253 characterise a compact form and dynamic slender lines: a balanced combination of traditional design elements and modern innovative stylistic solutions which have become the shipyard’s distinguishing mark throughout the world.  On board, customisation to meet the needs and desires of the shipowner is total: the particular arrangement of the cabins, the location of the wheelhouse on the flybridge, the interior design and decor, the engine room made entirely of stainless steel and the addition of the top deck above the flybridge, a private panoramic deck twelve metres above the sea which can be reached by the glass lift that serves all the yacht decks.  Total accommodation is for 12 guests in six luxurious cabins.  Crew beds are for fifteen persons.  Power for FB253 is from twin Cats 1476hp giving a top speed of 16 knots, and an economic of 12 which gives a range of over four thousand nautical miles.

Technical Data:

LOA - 61 m (200.1ft)

Beam - 10.59 m

Accommodation - 12 guests in 6 cabins, 15 crew persons

Engines - 2 x Cats 3512C 1476hp

Propulsion - line shafts

Speed - 16 knots max, 15 knots cruise, 12 knots economic cruise

Range - 4800 nm at 12 knots cruise

Project - Evan K Marshall, Benetti Naval Architecture

www.benettiyachts.it

New Model: Horizon E54

Horizon is pleased to announce the launch of hull one of the brand new E54 in Kaohsiung Taiwan. The new entry model E54 is powered by twin Volvo 700hp engines combined to IPS900 drives which with the dedicated hull design for the propulsion units reached a max speed of 33 knots during the official sea trials. The E54 features a three-stateroom, two-head layout for the utmost comfort and usability onboard.  Owners room as the large view windows suggest is midships full beam, and the third cabin is bunk. A split level two steps divided saloon on the main deck is the living area, having dining and galley to fore, and relaxing settee upon entrance. Horizon in the E54 emphasized a lot to utilize technology in order to minimize sound levels and fuel consumption, turning power into efficiency, and making her one of the most eco-friendly flybridge yachts in this. The Horizon E54 will debut officially at the 2012 Düsseldorf Boat show.

Technical data:

LOA - 16.48 m (54.1ft)

Waterline Length - 13.25 m

Beam - 4.8 m

Draft - 1.28 m

Displacement - 21 t

Fuel Capacity - 2000 l

Water Capacity - 500 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 700hp

Propulsion - Volvo IPS900 forward looking dual propeller pods

Speed - 33 knots max

www.horizonyacht.com

Improve-it = Cruisers 380

Cruisers Yachts presents interior upgrades to the 380 model which focus on the navigational center, stylish fabrics and more natural light to enhance the on-board experience. Making its debut at the 2011 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, the new interior boasts a yacht feel in a mid-size sport cruiser model. These improvements start at the helm, the completely redesigned navigational centers combine the latest technology with rich mocha-colored wood grain inlays. Interior fabrics, all produced at the company’s headquarters in Wisconsin, are available in three varieties: Oceania, featuring earthy and translucent tones; Azure, a twist on the traditional blue and white nautical theme; and Black Diamond, the more European feel with stark black and white colors. Boaters will also enjoy more square finishes and prominently silver-colored fixtures.

www.cruisersyachts.com

New Model: Palm Beach PB55 Express

Palm Beach Yachts from down under Australia continues to expand its line of traditional looking lobster cruisers and yachts.  The PB55 Express was presented to the public in Summer 2011, and builds on the looks of its bigger and smaller sisters.  The PB55 sits in between the 65 flagship and the 50, and has also won the title as Best Powerboat in Australia, this prize being a second for Palm Beach winning it in two successive years.  Versatility is also part of this project and the PB55 Express is offered in five different main deck layouts, and three lower cabin area plans.  The owners room is always to fore, but one has a choice for two or three cabins, and galley up or down.  Power is from twin Volvo 700hp and as all the range propulsion is trusted to IPS pods. 

Technical Data:

LOA - 18.54 m (60ft)

Hull Length - 17.67 m

Beam - 5.24 m

Draft - 1.06 m

Displacement - 18000 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 3000 l

Water Capacity - 1300 l

Accommodation -

Engines - 2 x Volvo D9 700hp

Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward looking dual propeller pods

Construction - E-glass with Vinilester and Epoxy resins, Corecell core

Project - Mark Richards

www.palmbeachmotoryachts.com

Project: Chris-Craft 32 Launch

Chris-Craft will introduce the newest member the Launch family at the Miami International Boat Show, coming February 2012.  The 32 Launch is the newest largerst member of this Chris-Craft family which features four other models from twenty to 28 feet. The Launch 32 offers an ample aft sunbed, sleep-in cabin for two, and convenient head.  Sleek proportions and practical configuration make the 32 Launch well-suited to long excursions but still remains practical for champagne cruises.  Power choices are not yet advised.

www.chriscraft.com

New Model: Hinckley T44 Mk.II Motoryacht

The Hinckley T44 Mk.II Motoryacht is the less new version of this model, which as we have shown on PowerYacht a few weeks ago has been added with a flybridge.  This representing more the real novelty of the 44 Talaria.  The T44 Mk.II Motoryacht though builds on the modifications occurring over the first now called mark one version as bigger engines, more open saloon features, and bonded windows.  Below is a single cabin layout, with an extra two berths for two possible in the C-shaped saloon.  Power is from twin Cummins 550hp, which give a 34 knots max speed, and superb low draft handling thanks to the Hamilton jet drives.   

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.41 m (44ft)

Waterline Length - 12.49 m
Beam - 4.11 m
Draft - 0.71 m
Displacement - 14061 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1892 l
Water Capacity - 378 l
Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Cummins QSC 8.3m 550hp
Propulsion - Hamilton 322 Jet Drives
Speed - 34 knots max, 28 knots cruise
Hull Type - modified Vee with sixteen degrees deadrise aft
Construction - Scrimp DualGuard, Kevlar and Carbon E-Glass composite hull with Vinylester resin. E-glass deck

www.hinckleyyachts.com

Best of 2011

It's gonna be worse before it gets better, or so the saying goes.  Things have been going downwards in the World economy since that fall of 2008, and the start of 2012 sees European governments seeing where they can find the funds to keep on running the state machine.  In Italy, what is the biggest yachting industry and market in Europe, and the largest World wide for yachts over 24 meters the current technical government has come with a bad idea, to tax yachts, and clamp them.  A good idea to reduce more the yachting industry, which has since 2008 lost about 20% in gross revenue.  In all this climate boat builders do not give up, and presented new models to entice buyers even more in these difficult times. 

PowerYacht best of 2011 is the Wider 42. A new brand founded in hard times by Tili Antonelli last year, the founder of fast yachts icon Pershing in 1985 who helmed the company till 2010.  This Wider first model is a day cruiser with high performance in mind and versatility of use, designed by Fulvio de Simoni it is unusual in looks, and among many technical details includes extendable bulwarks which extend space and reduces roll on anchor.

The others.

Atlantis 58. The entry level Azimut-Benetti brand new design language by Salvetti and Biaggi as introduced in 2010 continues.  For 2011 Atlantis presents a new largest ever flagship, which comes with interesting options; with or without patio door, and three choices for the third cabin.  

Cutwater 26. Trailable, impressive spaces inside in under eight meters, and superb seakeeping qualities from an unedited hull shape for this new brand which comes from the same owners of Ranger Tugs. 

Fiart 33 Seawalker. Walkaround sport cruisers are becoming a thing in Italy, and this is Fiart very open reply, with bow to stern deck space and four berths below deck.  

Greenline 70 Ocean Class. Greenline second model more then doubles the size to the first 33 Hybrid.  Optional green clean energy features with a modern design language out and inside, and a possible trans-Atlantic range at slow displacement speeds.

Jarrett Bay 46 Sportfisherman hull #57. A fully custom order by Nascar driver Jeff Burton, Jarrett Bay #57 is also an innovative sport fish cruiser, being the first pod drive propulsion boat for the custom Carolina builder, and also the first with a lower windshield and helm. 

Metamarine TNT 48 Replica. It is something unseen nowadays but this is a fast sport cruiser slash powerboat fully coming from the racing circuit, to be exact the demanding Endurance class, of which the hull is winner in 2010, and 2004. 

Princess 32M. M is Princess new range of large super yacht beyond thirty meters in size which also represents the new South yard development.  A new flagship but not for long with the project for a forty meter gaining pace. 

Sasga 42. A new brand from the founders and previous owners of Mennorquin.  It is the first model of Sasga with projects of smaller and larger models already planned. Design by Indigo Toledo of Barracuda for a contemporary look. 

Going small. Viking 42 Open. The top selling production sportfish yacht builder of recent years presents a new entry level twelve meter in length platform at the end of 2010 with the 42 Convertible which gets added with a 42 Open sister at the start of 2011.  It is an entrance to the Viking World which makes Sportfish yachts up to super 25 meters in size.

PowerYacht wishes to all its followers, friends, readers, and visitors a Healthy and Prosperous 2012 year.

Monthly News - December 2011

-pic of the mon- Mulder New Yard

Apache Busy and Successful 2011

Big Chief, Splash & Fighter One are the newest additions to the Apache tribe. Splash, a dazzling 28' and Big Chief, a dominating '47 debuted at the Key West Poker Run in November. They proudly turned heads at the dock. Also arriving in Key West were: Hammer Head '41, Broken Arrow '47 & Spirit of Apache '47. Big Chief stole the show leading the pack from Boca Grande Island to Key West during the Saturday Poker Run event. Big Chief also won the people's choice award for "Most Outrageous Boat". Apache also congratulates Tony Toll and his team for winning the Needles Trophy in Ju

Azimut-Benetti Group New Corporate Services Head

On 1st December the Azimut-Benetti Group appointed Mauro Moscardi as Corporate Services Head with responsibility for the areas of Administration, Finance and Control, ICT, Human Resources, Legal, Research & Development and Marketing (in these last two areas, economic management only). Moscardi, who was born in 1963 and holds a degree in Economics and Business, gained significant international experience between 1990 and 2008 at Merloni. After operating in Europe, between 1995 and 1998 he worked in the Financial Administration of EJV Merloni-Haier in Qingdao (China) and subsequently, as Finance Director, he managed the Turkish firms in the Group. For over 7 years, as CFO of the local companies, he worked in Moscow and St. Petersburg. In 2008 he became CFO of Technogym and then occupied the same position in De Cecco S.p.A. In Azimut-Benetti, Moscardi will use his wide-ranging experience to increase the functionality and efficiency of the central services, thus contributing to the consolidation of strategic activities for the company, including the process of internationalization.

Azimut-Benetti Group Restructuring Operations

The Azimut-Benetti Group has taken another step in the organisational restructuring of its commercial and manufacturing operations, as part of the plan launched one year ago with the creation of the three business lines, Yachts, Megayachts and Yachtique, with a new merging of activity. As of 1st of December, the Atlantis brand will be integrated more closely into the Yachts business line, relying fully on the sales structure and service network already in place. The Yachts business line, grouping together all planing boats up to 30 metres, will continue to be lead by Paolo Casani, who will thus take on direct responsibility for the Atlantis brand in addition to the role of CEO of Azimut Yachts. Mr Casani takes the place of Luca Sburlati, who has left Azimut Benetti Group after four years with the company as head of HR and a brief stint alongside him on the Atlantis brand.

Azimut Selected for ADI-Index 2011

Azimut 50 Magellano and Yachtique were officially selected for the ADI-Index 2011, respectively, for the category "Design for the Environment" and "Design services". The objects, products and services selected for the Index, automatically join the three-year selection "Golden Compass Award", the highest award for Italian design, created in 1954.

Broom Award Nomination

Broom Boats, based in Brundall, Norfolk, has been nominated for the prestigious IPC Marine Media Motor Boat of the Year Award. The nomination is for the new Broom 370, a luxury 38ft motor cruiser, which was launched at Southampton International Boat Show earlier this year. The new Broom 370 has received rave reviews from the marine press, including Motor Boats Monthly and Motor Boats & Yachting and further marks the rejuvenation of the famous Broom marque. Seven Broom 370s have already been sold since the launch at Southampton, with boats being delivered to France, Holland and the UK. Further new boats are due to be launched by Broom in 2012.

Broom Extends International Boat Show Attendance

Broom Boats are delighted to announce its attendance at not one but two major International boat shows in January. Broom will be exhibiting a new 370 at the Tullet Prebon London International Boat Show on stand L117. Broom will then be exhibiting a different 370 at Boot Dusseldorf the 43rd International Dusseldorf boat show in Hall 5 on stand 5D40. In the current climate exhibiting at these events needs to be carefully considered, however we are confident that the new products on offer coupled with the new marketing material enables the brand to achieve the targets set for 2012. Following the successful launch of the 370 at the PSP Southampton International Boat Show 2011 we are delighted to announce the order book is continuing to grow and we have increased our production staff to allow the 370 to be built on 2 production lines. We have received a large amount of interest in the brand and products from the European marketplace and this has enabled us to exhibit at the Dusseldorf boat show with confidence. The development of the 35 Coupe also continues and will be launched at the inaugural Broom Boat show on the 28th April 2012 at our yard in Brundall; further details of this will be released in the New Year.

Chris-Craft Classic Pennant Flag Debut

Even though the Chris-Craft pennant flag is certainly not new to Chris-Craft owners, the use of the pennant flag on Chris-Craft branded apparel & merchandise is just now making its debut. For almost 14 decades, Chris-Craft owners have had the pleasure of the familiar pennant flag cheerfully waving to them from the bow of their boats. This classic image is now available on a limited line of apparel on sale now, in the Chris-Craft Company web store. Also new are ¼ zip sweatshirts, t-shirts (both short and long sleeve) Tervis Tumblers, latte mugs, license plates, canvas tote bags, and key holders, just to name a few of the new items now available on sale.

Horizon Launches Second Super Yacht for China

Horizon is pleased to announce the new Horizon RP120 “Muses” – the second superyacht above 100ft that Horizon has sold to China this year, has recently launched following a successful sea trial in Kaohsiung Taiwan. Muses is the third Horizon RP120 masterpiece to grace the open waters and she makes her debut as the leader of brand-new superyachts in Mainland China. Muses is the first yacht for her new owner, who named the 120-foot Horizon to reflect the elegance found in her sleek exterior and stylish grey hull. With the outstanding quality, craftsmanship, advanced technology and reliable after-sales service, Horizon won the client’s trust.

Horizon Preferred US Partners

Horizon Yachts Inc announces the Marine Group, Galati Yacht Sales and EPIC Yachting as new Preferred Partners for Horizon's U.S. East Coast sales market. The Preferred Partnership program expands Horizon's presence in the U.S, providing extensive sales and service coverage from the Gulf Coast to the New England area. Points of contact include Bill Snyder for the Marine Group, Steve Sprigg for Galati Yacht Sales, and Mike Ladas for EPIC Yachting.

Jarrett Bay New Maryland Sales Staff

Jarrett Bay is pleased to announce the addition of lifetime boater, fisherman and enthusiast, Rich Tranchida to its Maryland staff. Rich is an extremely talented sales professional and Jarrett Bay is excited to have him onboard!

Moonen Designer Tour

The Moonen team were delighted to recently welcome the HISWA Yacht Valley Designers Tour to our yard in Groot Ammers. Eight leading designers enjoyed a comprehensive tour of our facilities and an informative presentation about Moonen from our MD Emile Bilterijst. The overall goal was to explain how Moonen has worked with various designers over the years, including a long-lasting and highly successful relationship with Rene van der Velden in particular. The yard remains open to the possibility of teaming up with other masters of the drawing board especially in the custom superyacht area (one of the four diverse segments in which we are active, along with our High Speed, Displacement and Explorer yachts). Emile stressed how new ideas and innovative thinking have always been at the forefront of the Moonen success story. After this presentation the visitors were taken onboard the 42-metre Sofia III, a fully custom motoryacht currently under construction in Groot Ammers. All the designers expressed how impressed they were by the quality as we sat down for a delicious high tea lunch.

Mulder New Yard Underway

Mulder Shipyard’s managing director Dick Mulder has laid the first foundations of a brand-new facility in the Netherlands, fifteen minutes south of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The special ceremony marked the end of several years of planning on a multi-million-euro investment situated ten kilometres from the current Mulder facility. This state-of-the-art yard will cover an area of 7000 square metres and be focused on the maintenance, refit and new build of yachts between 18 and 40 metres. Due to open in 2012, the first new yacht of Mulder’s impressive order portfolio will be launched there in 2013. Our existing facilities in Voorschoten will also remain open and be dedicated to the maintenance of smaller yachts.

Mulder Recieves Two More Orders for Favorite

Mulder is delighted to recently receive new orders for two Favorites: A Mulder Favorite 1500 and a Mulder Favorite 1300 cabrio . Both yachts will be delivered during the course of 2012 and initlally be berthed in the Netherlands. There are numbers four and five respectively in the successful new generation of Mulder Favorites. If you are also potentially interested in taking ownership of a Mulder Favorite within the year, contact the yard for more information.

Nor-Tech Welcomes Alden Thornton and Expands Line-Up

Nor-Tech Hi-Performance Boats has set its sights on the offshore saltwater fishing boat market with an ambitious plan that includes new models, new dealers, and a key personnel acquisition, the Florida-based powerboat manufacturer announced today.  Known for many years as a builder of custom high performance vee-bottoms and catamarans, Nor-Tech has recently expanded its lineup to include a growing array of diverse new models, including an 80’ sport yacht, and 34’ and 39’ luxury/performance center consoles. Now, the company plans to target the saltwater fishing boat market with a full line of tournament-ready center console fishing boats. The company plans to make significant inroads into the offshore tournament fishing community by joining forces with one of its most recognized members, hiring industry veteran Alden Thornton to serve as national saltwater sales manager and fishing team manager. Thornton arrives at Nor-Tech with a lifetime of marine industry experience spanning sales, dealer development, product development, racing, and tournament fishing. For the past six years, Thornton served as regional sales manager and fishing team manager for Fountain Powerboats, where he was heavily involved in the design, testing, and sales of fishing boat product. Thornton began competing professionally on the Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) tournament trail in 2002, and his wife Alison was named as the SKA’s Lady Angler of the year in 2010. In July, Thornton’s “A-Team” fishing team took top honors at the 2011 Alabama Deep Sea Rodeo, an event certified by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest fishing tournament. Prior to joining the SKA, Thornton raced boats in the American Power Boat Association (APBA), where he won two national championships, two North American championships, three high points championships, and has been twice inducted into the APBA Hall of Champions. Nor-Tech will introduce four new fishing models in 2012, ranging from 28’ to 43’. The fully redesigned fishing version of its current 39’ center console will debut at Miami International Boat Show in February, with the fishing version of its current 34’ center console following soon after. An entirely new 28’ will join the fleet in early summer, and tooling work has just commenced on a flagship 43’, which is slated for debut next fall. Nor-Tech also announced that a significant expansion of the company’s dealer network is underway, with the goal of including dealers specializing in the company’s outboard products. Joining established Nor-Tech dealers Scott Shogren of Shogren Performance Marine in Waukegan, Illinois and Carl Hansen of New Boats Direct in Key Largo, Florida; the company announced the following new dealers: Greg Bent and Jon Miller of Bent Marine in New Orleans, Louisiana; Kenneth and Mike Black of South Austin Marine in Austin, Texas; and Brian Forehand and Robbie Brown of Marker 17 Marine in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Riva Shows off in International Events in December

Riva, a brand of the Ferretti Group, has taken part in two important events in December: from the 8th till the 12th its new jewel, Riva Iseo, was presented at the Millionaire Fair in Amsterdam, while on the 9th December the exhibition "Lo Stile Italiano - arte e design” started in Monaco that will finish on the 2nd January, during which Riva is celebrated as an icon of Italian style and design through one of its best known models, Aquarama, on display. The exhibition organised by the Italian Embassy in the Principality of Monaco is to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Unification of Italy, under the aegis of the President of the Italian Republic and of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II.

Riva to Luxury Verona Show

Riva, a Ferretti Group’s brand, took part in Luxury & Yacht, the greatest European luxury show in Verona (24th-27th November 2011), to present the latest model of the shipyard, Iseo, a 27-foot runabout that has already been widely appreciated by the public at the Festival International de la Plaisance in Cannes and at Genoa International Boat Show. On the occasion of this important event, Riva has worked in partnership with its historic dealer Nautica Casarola to show to the visitors the new gem of the brand within a dedicated area. Iseo is destined to become a must-have for those who love cruising on both lakes and sea and for design enthusiasts. She is also perfect for anyone wishing to enhance their yacht with an exclusive tender that will never go unnoticed. Result of the working relationship between Officina Italiana Design, the exclusive designer of the entire Riva range, AYT – Advanced Yacht Technology – the Ferretti Group’s naval research and design centre, and the team of architects and designers at Centro Stile Ferrettigroup, the new runabout has been devised so owners can ‘live’ her wherever they wish: for this reason the standard version of Iseo has her own custom-made car-trailer, allowing easy transportation wherever the owner wishes to go. Iseo also effectively responds to the increasing demand for onboard infotainment: she is indeed the first boat in her class to be equipped with an entertainment system and GPS charting based on the Apple iPAD platform. Many luxury products of the great international brands were on display in Verona, ranging from high performance cars to wellness, from entertainment to interior design. Iseo, a synonym for Italian luxury and excellence, could not miss such an important event.

Riviera Owners Share Christmas

There was plenty of Christmas cheer on board an armada of Rivieras as hundreds of families across the nation came together to celebrate the festive season, rekindle old friendships and make new ones. From the Gold Coast and Brisbane to Perth, Sydney to South Australia; Riviera’s nationwide dealer network popped the corks and shared a toast with the growing Riviera family. R Marine Queensland hosted a beach party at Jumpinpin just north of South Stradbroke Island for 126 Riviera owners. Dealer principal Randall Jones said there was plenty of Christmas cheer at ‘Millionaires Row’. Riviera Brisbane celebrated the festive season on the lawns of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadran at Canaipa, Russell Island with 50 Riviera enthusiasts. Dealer principals Rod, Julie and Ben Crawley said everyone enjoyed a delicious spit roast and fresh prawns for lunch. To Sydney and with the pop of a cork, the festivities began for 35 Riviera owners who joined R Marine Pittwater at Coasters Retreat otherwise known as The Basin for their annual Christmas Party which was held on December 2. R Marine Pittwater dealer principal Bruce Mitchell said it was great to see the Riviera family get together one last time before Christmas. R Marine Sydney hosted a spellbinding experience for 90 Riviera owners who enjoyed a magical day on the Hawkesbury River before enjoying a five-course lunch at exclusive waterfront restaurant Peats Bite. R Marine Sydney dealer principal Michael Joyce said everyone relaxed over lunch and renewed old friendships. Across to Western Australia where about 33 Riviera enthusiasts set sail for the Swan River to celebrate Christmas. R Marine Perth dealer principal Brendon Grieve said this year the service team together with R Marine Perth staff and Riviera owners each hired a Foundation yacht for an afternoon of sailing. Presentations took place at the Royal Perth Yacht Club overlooking the lights of beautiful Perth city. A barbecue dinner and drinks followed. In Adelaide a fleet of 15 Rivieras with 65 on board braved the windy conditions as they entered the Port River for the inaugural R Marine South Australia Owners Club night. Club secretary Glenn Spear said everyone had a great time on the Port River which has recently been named a Dolphin Sanctuary. Riviera’s dealer networks look forward to welcoming the New Year and have an exciting line up of owner events planned for 2012 across Australia and around the world.

Sunreef Launches its First Yacht Sold to Polish Customer

As 2011 comes to a close, Sunreed is delighted to announce that it has just launched a very special yacht, the first one ever commissioned by a Polish client. Based in Gdańsk, Poland, until now the shipyard has been building yachts exclusively for export. Dreamliner is the third unit of the new yacht model, Sunreef 58, introduced to the market in 2011 (which means three launches in just six months!). The yacht will accommodate six guests and two crew in ultimate comfort.

Sunseeker Expands Online Community

Sunseeker International has joined the growing social media community, the 21st century has created an online world that allow us "tweet", "like" and "poke" each other. It has created an interactive platform that connects us in real time, allowing us to spread the word and share our thoughts to other like minded individuals around the world. Sign up to the official Sunseeker International page on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter. Like us or tweet us to keep up to date with all the Sunseeker breaking news and events. Regular updates will come to you as "tweets" or "wall posts" from the people in the know. As part of our efforts to bring news from the Sunseeker World Headquarters to as many people as possible.

Sunseeker Raise Over 100,000 for MacMillan

The Connaught Hotel in Bournemouth hosted the 2011 Cheque Presentation Evening for Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride. Cyclists, volunteers, sponsors and supporters all attended to celebrate Macmillan 100 years and see the results of the Macmillan ride's 100+ campaign to raise £100,000 in Macmillan Centenary year. The annual event is sponsored by Sunseeker International and employee involvement is high. Before presenting the cheque for £100,623 Ride Organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls acknowledged the support of all those involved and gave special thanks to everyone who went the extra mile with their fund raising in Macmillan's Centenary year. Macmillan's General Manager David Crosbie spoke about the growing need to do more, as more people live longer cancer affects more people. Peter rounded off the evening by announcing plans for the future, with the aim to reach the £1 million mark next year, since the events founding. The 2012 Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride will take place on Sunday 1st July and distances will include, 10, 38, 48, 60 and 101 miles. Sunseeker International's Operations Director Wayne Moore, announced their support for 2012 and said how much they enjoyed being part for such a great event and supporting such a worth while cause. Record numbers of Sunseeker employees were now taking part.

Windy Short Listed for Second Major Award

Scandinavian boat builder Windy Boats AS has been shortlisted for ‘Best New Boat’ in the ‘Sportscruisers below 45ft’ category of the ‘2012 Motor Boat of the Year Awards’. The winner will be announced on 9 January at the 2012 London Boat Show (6-15 January). This is the second major award nomination for the 31 Zonda, described by a leading UK yachting title as having “the best hull we have ever tested.” The Zonda is also nominated for the 2012 ‘European Powerboat of the Year Awards’, to be announced at the 2012 Düsseldorf International Boat Show (21–29 January). Launched to rave reviews last spring, the 31 Zonda is a stunning fast weekender which combines the exhilarating and uncompromising performance of a sportsboat with the creature comforts of a larger cruiser.

Windy New Distributor for China and Honk Kong

Scandinavian boat builder Windy Boats AS has announced the appointment of Up Marine Ltd as its exclusive distributor in Greater China. With offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, Up Marine is headed by Anthony Cheung, whose sales team has imported over 100 yachts to the region in recent years. Windy and Up Marine believe that Windy’s larger models, including the stunning Windy Dubois SR 52 super-tender, will be of particular interest to Chinese customers looking to combine exceptional performance with unprecedented style, speed and comfort. Given mainland China’s vast lakes and inland waters, they are also confident that the new 26 Kharma sports cruiser, 31 Zonda fast weekender and upcoming 39 Zonda, designed in partnership with Dubois, will also be popular choices. Up Marine will be promoting its new Windy partnership at the upcoming Shanghai Boat Show in April 2012.