March 8, 2012

New Model: Fairline 38 Targa GT

Sometimes official pictures are hard to come by, so I had to take this from a YouTube video, to be exact the one from the Motorboat and Yachting team. Presented officially in the past Southampton boat show, the Fairline 38 Targa GT is the hard top version of the open model presented in 2005, and since then always gaining a growing number of success.  This new hardtop 38 Targa GT puts Fairline in competition with other European builders offering the same style of sport cruiser, and I see a close battle for British sales with the just launched Princess V39, and the two hundred plus delivered Sealine 35 SC. The hardtop is also a clever nice looking design extending to cover nearly all the aft deck without disturbing the nice lines of this boat. Thanks to this, use of canvas canopies only features three parts, these covering sides and aft part. Fairline once in the development of the hardtop where also clever to tweak it in other areas incorporating the following new items as well; three vertical view windows per side of midships cabin, option of a small child berth also in the mid room, and the choice of the new Volvo 400hp stern drive diesels.  This new engines option gives impressive max speeds of 45 knots. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.13 m (39.9ft) inc gunwale
Hull Length - 11.06 m
Beam - 3.64 m
Draft - 1.02 m unloaded
Displacement - 7.57 t unloaded
Fuel Capacity - 636 l
Water Capacity - 296 l
Accommodation - 4 + 2, or 5 + 2 berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 EVC 260hp, D4 EVC 300hp, D6 EVC 370hp, D6 EVC 400hp
Propulsion - Volvo duoprop stern drive
Speed - 33 knots max with 260hp, 45 knots with 400hp
Hull Type - modified Vee with 18 degrees deadrise aft
Construction - hand laid fiberglass with unidirectional and biaxial woven rovings, Isophtalic resin and gel coat with Powder bound mat, polyurethane cores used for deck 
Project - Bernard Olesinski, Fairline Design Team

March 6, 2012

Project: Nordhavn 52 Coastal Pilot

Noting the continued demand for the unique 35 Coastal Pilot, Nordhavn has been quietly working on a new bigger 52 feet of the same series. Designed as an elegant, highly capable coastal cruiser, the new 52 Coastal Pilot will offer semi-displacement cruising speed and efficiency along with the safety and capability sought after by the serious cruiser. With a cruising speed between eight and 15 knots and a range in excess of one thousand nautical miles, aside from major ocean crossings, this rugged new Nordhavn can fulfill the most ambitious of cruising dreams. P.A.E. is extremely excited about the new design and in February received its first build commitment. Based upon the company’s vast experience, this new live aboard design will be operated primarily by a cruising couple featuring an exceptionally large and livable owners cabin with abundant drawers and hanging lockers along with plenty of floor space, a vanity, opening ports and hatches and a spacious head and shower compartment. A wonderful guest stateroom will also be provided, well separated from the owner’s suite with natural lighting and ventilation, hanging locker and drawer space along with added general purpose locker space for spare parts and gear. A separate head with stall shower will service the guest accommodations but also double as a convenient day head.  The classic sedan configuration was selected with a beautiful salon/cockpit interface and the belief that a separated wheelhouse is not necessary on a coastal cruiser where overnight operations are not the norm. This style layout benefits from unrestricted 360 degree visibility, a flowing and spacious salon/galley and easy and comfortable access to staterooms and heads. A utility room forward of the saloon will include a separate washer and dryer along with an added freezer and locker space. Access to the full height engine room will be provided through the lazarette, the guest stateroom room or a hatch in the main saloon. Twin Cummins 480hp engines are provided which will allow a sensible cruising speed of 15 knots and below. For greater speed desires Nordhavn will also offer higher output engines available for the 52 Coastal Cruiser.

March 5, 2012

New Model: Vicem 61 Bahama Bay

Just launched at the Turkish Tuyap boat show the new Vicem 61 Bahama Bay merges classic down East lobster boat styling with the latest cutting edge technologies of Volvo IPS. The 61 Bahama Bay boasts some new twists to the traditional style yacht, and this represents the second time for Vicem, with the first being the 54 Bahama Bay also with IPS Drive system.  Constructed as most of the Vicem's with cold molding technology, a wood fiberglass hybrid which brings strength with low weight plus a custom build approach.  Interiors for hull one of the 61 Bahama Bay are finished with African woods of Khaya, Ducia, and Wenge mahogany.  The layout of the 61 gains space to the use of the Volvo pods, with a spacious lower deck having three double cabins; owners, VIP, and twin bunk, and the galley.  The midships owners stateroom surprises for its space in a lobster looking traditional yachts of this size, having a walk around double bed, and en suite bathroom.  For outside looks the 61 takes also a further step from the first model of this range thanks to the help of architect Hakki Karoglu, an owner of the first 54 Bahama Bay launched who gave some important input.  The stand out feature is for sure the all white exterior paint; but other benefit from the 54 is also the extended hard top which now covers all the cockpit.  Power is from twin Volvo 700hp with IPS pods, which deliver a 29 knots max speed, 24 cruise and a 500 nautical miles range 10 knots economic run.
Technical Data:
LOA - 18.5 m (60.8ft)
Hull Length - 17.25 m
Waterline Length - 16.38 m
Beam - 5.06 m
Draft - 1.30 m
Displacement - 29 t
Fuel Capacity - 2400 l
Water Capacity - 995 l
Accommodation - 6 guests in 3 cabins
Max Persons - 12
Engines - 2 x Volvo D9 700hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS900 pods
Speed - 29 knots max, 24 knots cruising, 10 knots economic
Range - 260 nm at 24 knots, 500 nm at 10 knots
Hull Type - hard chine Vee planning ship with 12 degrees dead rise aft
Construction - cold molded mahogany with epoxy by West System
Project - Vicem Yacht Design Team, special mention Hakki Koroglu
Certification - CE RINA B

March 3, 2012

New Model: Majesty 135

Gulf Craft recently launched its first hull of the highly anticipated Majesty 135 design. With three decks and more than 41 meters in overall length, it is Gulf Craft’s largest super yacht ever built, further solidifying the company’s position as a major player in the global over eighty feet market.  Built to order, the Majesty 135  is semi-customized with a focus on comfort-enhancing features like an on-board elevator and zero-speed stabilizers, as well as a spacious and richly decorated interior, featuring a bamboo veneer theme, gold-plated fittings and a splendor of marble and granite finishes throughout the vessel.  Interior design is provided by CDB Yacht Design, while structural design and naval architecture came from Gulf Craft’s engineering team, YD Design of Italy and BMT Engineering of the UK.  Standard layout offers five double guest cabins, with an owners stateroom on the main deck.  Crew space is four cabins sleeping seven, plus a captains cabin.  Power is from twin MTU 3400hp engines. Initial sea-trials have already been conducted successfully with hand-over of the yacht to the customer scheduled for April.
Technical Data:
LOA - 41.05 m (135ft)
Waterline Length - 33.6 m
Beam - 8.14 m
Draft - 3.54 m
Displacement - 230 t approx
Fuel Capacity - 37800 l
Water Capacity - 7570 l
Accommodation - 10 guests in 5 cabins, 8 crew in 5 cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 12V M93 3400hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Project - CDB Yacht Design interior, YD Design Italy and BMT Engineering for hull and lines

March 2, 2012

Project: Mulder 1300 Favorite Coupe

Mulder continues its rise to success and more recent sales and presents the project of the 1300 Favorite Convertible.  A project which comes from demands of a customer, and will be delivered in the coming Summer 2012. The 1300 Favorite Coupe is a full open version of the enclosed traditional cruiser.  This more sports version of the 1300 Favorite will measure over thirteen meters, with a beam of plus four. The yacht will be equipped with twin Volvo engines providing 150hp each, giving a top speed of 15 knots. A large electrically operated convertible top with ensure a very sporty appearance, as well as creating a large open al fresco space. The interior will comprise two cabins, a spacious galley, a toilet and a separate shower.

March 1, 2012

Technical Data

It is always surprising for me how detailed technical data is hard to come by on some of the official builders website, and catalogues.  With some brands a buyer looking for some detailed information has to ask a salesman, and be lucky if this can answer to his question directly without a wait.  May be some builders still think that the emotion perceived by the looks of the boat can actually make buyers ignore technical details.  I am sure for some it is like this, but for the many how is that.  I am sure many who when coming to the final choice between two crafts, open the specifications and compare much as possible.
Some builders even don't state any engine makes and will tell maximum horsepower giving a certain speed.  Another lacking detail is always the Vee dead rise of some boats.  You go to a show, the boat in question has a covered hull, and the salesman will tell you it is a deep Vee.  You take the cover off and then you find a fifteen degrees dead rise aft. Deep Vee is twenty degrees deadrise aft and more to fore.  Under this technically speaking it is called a medium Vee.
Should there not be an implemented standard for specification globally.
A builder which makes good technical specification is the Ferretti Group, still needing some minor improvements but of the major European brands it gives good over all information.  Some of the Americans take the praise for also delivering in some case the full first test report on performance, and also giving the hull dead rise aft.  

February 29, 2012

Monthy News - February 2012

-pic of the month- Ranger Tugs R-29 One Hundred

Azimut Group Awarded at MIBS 2012


At the conclusion the Miami International Boat Show, Azimut Yachts and Atlantis confirm “best seller” leadership in the Americas, with strong sales in the U.S., Central and South America. Direct sales at boat shows are growing stronger. This is clearly evident after the 24th Miami International Boat Show, which saw Azimut Yachts solidify its position at the No. 1 European importer in this market. Highly satisfied was the first on-the-spot comment by Marco Valle, Sales Director for Azimut Yachts and Atlantis, who returned to headquarters with 23 signed contracts, foremost among these the sale of an Azimut Yachts 95. Also meeting with great satisfaction was Atlantis, the specialist for opens, which was in attendance in Miami with its entire line, including two new models – the 38 and the 58. Likewise noteworthy are the recent sales and service agreements concluded with MarineMax and with a broad network of Azimut dealers in Central and South America, with the company achieving good sales success and making new contacts. At the halfway point of the 2011/12 boating season, Azimut has reached


Bayliner Name Preferred Freight Forwarder

As the two companies prepare for boat sales and shipping at the Miami International Boat Show, Peters & May USA has been awarded the contract to manage the freight forwarding and boat transport for the Brunswick Boat Group (BBG) brands of Bayliner and Trophy boats. During a comprehensive selection process, BBG approached several freight forwarders and specialist boat transport companies before choosing Peters & May for its commitment to delivering a first class service, while maintaining a competitive pricing structure. International Bayliner and Trophy dealers will be able to discuss shipments directly with a dedicated Account Handler and also use our Webtrack system to track and trace their shipments online. Peters & May's network of offices, including those in the UK, Asia, France, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Spain, Turkey and the UAE, will assist with the imports, while the USA office will handle all the exports from the USA.


Bavaria Dream Start at Boot 2012

Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH presented its comprehensive portfolio of sailing and motor yachts at boot 2012 in Düsseldorf. The trade fair was a spectacular success with two world premieres, numerous innovations and excellent sales results. The world premieres for the Sport 39 and Vision 46 were particular highlights at the show. Both of these new models from the Giebelstadt shipyard correspond exactly to the Zeitgeist and current customer tastes – something confirmed by the amount of interest and trade show orders. The presentation of the new, sporty B/One, a 23-foot sailing yacht, available from April 2012 aroused a considerable amount of surprise and interest and proved to be a media coup. The B/One is Bavaria's first ever model for the day sailer segment. Its easy handling, excellent performance and modest entry pricing will certainly appeal to its young target group. The B/One was presented to around 25 journalists and numerous customers – the event became a boot 2012 highlight and caused great commotion. On the Bavaria stand, there were also exclusive images and film footage of the new, luxury Bavaria motorboat range, which is available from spring 2012. The first model in the series, a 42-foot flybridge motorboat, impressed visitors and experts alike with its innovative features and luxurious finish. Following its keenly-awaited launch this spring, this new range will contribute to Bavaria’s international sales and further strengthen the brand’s growth.


Brunswick Chairman and CEO to Present Conferences

Brunswick Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dustan E. McCoy will present at several events for the financial community in late February and early March. These events are as follows: KeyBanc Consumer Conference, Feb. 29, at the Intercontinental New York Barclay in New York City, RBC Capital Markets Restaurant & Leisure Investor Day, March 1, at the Stein Eriksen Lodge in Deer Valley, Utah, and Raymond James and Associate's 33rd Annual Investor Conference, March 6, at J. W. Marriott in Orlando, Fla. Mr. McCoy will participate in the first two conferences, and will give a formal presentation at the Raymond James event in Orlando.


Cigarette with Myco Tilt Trailer

While tilt trailers are nothing new to fans of high-performance catamarans, V-bottom hull enthusiasts who visited the Miami International Boat Show February 16-20 where in for an eye-popping surprise from MYCO Trailers --the world's first V-bottom display trailer designed to show off the inside of a boat while it sits on dry land. Firsts are nothing new for the Bradenton, Florida-based manufacturer, so when Cigarette Racing Team wanted to showcase the interior of its new 39' Top Gun Open at the Florida Powerboat Club's November 2011 Key West Poker Run Village, the two companies put into development an idea they had been kicking around for several years. The results are even more impressive than they sound. The trailer's debut at Key West provided an additional Wow! factor reports Cigarette CEO & President Skip Braver. The MYCO V-bottom Tilt Trailer will be displaying another impressive Cigarette offering at the Miami Boat Show in booth B-23, and based on the reaction from other boat builders, the trailer will soon be available to OEMs and dealers of all boat brands. The tilt trailer was originally developed to tow catamarans through the narrow streets of Europe and on U.S. highways to avoid "wide load" restrictions. Tweedie hints that the next logical step for the V-bottom trailer will be a version suitable for towing in the tilt position, which will require some additional engineering and design.


Cruisers Miami VIP Party

A team of top personnel representing Cruisers Yachts was be on hand to answer all of your questions and give a personalized tour of the yachts. As if the exclusive attention wasn't enough, VIP guests attending the party where offered some of the biggest buying incentives in the company's history...up to $80,000 on select models. A one-time offer only available during the "Miami After Hours" party. Miami cuisine and a taste of select wines where available while clients explore two of the most revolutionary yachts in the boating industry: the newly launched 41 Cantius and last year's belle of the ball...the 48 Cantius. The newly designed 430 Coupe, 540 Coupe, 350 Express and 380 Express yachts where also available in this event.


Ferretti Custom Line 100 Wins Motorboat of the Year Award 2012

London the Ferretti Custom Line 100’ was awarded the prestigious Motor Boat of The Year 2012 prize in the “Custom Yacht Award” category. The prize was awarded by the publishing group IPC Media, an authoritative point of reference for the international nautical industry. The Motor Boat of the Year award, annually elects boats with the most exclusive designs, with excellent performance and the latest technological innovations. The winners were selected by a committee of experts made up of journalists from Motor Boats Monthly and Motor Boat&Yachting. This is the second prize awarded within a few months to this new model of the Ferretti Custom Line is: at the Cannes Nautical Boat Show, in September 2011, the Custom Line 100’ was awarded the Best Layout in the Flying Bridge category over 24 metres. Created from the close collaboration of Studio Zuccon International Project, the AYT - Advanced Yacht Technology, the naval research and design centre of the Ferretti Group, and the team of architects and designers from Centro Stile Ferretti Group, Ferretti Custom Line 100’ embodies the construction and project design experience of the Shipyard which, on the one hand combines sporty design and technology, and on the other hand combines innovative design solutions and comfort, striking a perfect balance. Ferretti Custom Line 100’ is part of the Custom Line, alongside the 124’, 112’ NEXT and 97’ models.


Formula Calls Music Makers

Do you love making music? Want to be part of future Formula videos? Now is the time! Formula Boats is now editing footage for your viewing pleasure and we want you to help make the music that ties it all together. Send us your favorite original two- to four-minute instrumental song or songs that you think would be perfect for our Formula videos. Make the song model-specific, or for any Formula model—we just want to hear what you can do! If your music is chosen, you will be credited at the end of the video. Get your instruments and your computer ready and get us your music today!


Grand Banks Busy Days

As Grand Banks head further into 2012 and over the new season of boat shows in Miami, Palm Beach, Vancouver, Istanbul, production teams at the factory continue to ramp up work on new Heritage, Eastbay and Aleutian yachts for upcoming deliveries. These include the 54EU, new flagship of the Heritage Series and the most spacious, best-equipped motoryacht in her class. And another Heritage model, the 47EU, marked an exciting milestone when hull #100 recently went into production. Across the yard, another new 53 Aleutian RP has just been through the last series of QC checks and a final management inspection prior to shipping. It's a long and rigorous process, but one that every GB must undergo to ensure to meets the proven standards for quality and craftsmanship of this renowned brand.


Heesen Team Synergy Places Third

Heesen Yachts, world leader in design, engineering and construction of luxury superyachts, is thrilled to announce that Team Synergy won third place in the match races at the RC44 – Puerto Calero Cup, held in Lanzarote (Canary Islands) from February 8 to 12. Fourteen teams returned to Puerto Calero to start the 2012 RC44 Championship Tour, three months after the final of the RC44 World Championships. The battle for the Puerto Calero Cup, the first leg in this year’s circuit, was waged in open waters. The challenging racing course makes Lanzarote one of the best sea sailing venues in Southern Europe. A wide range of sailing conditions gave the teams a great challenge at their first appearance after the winter break. Team Synergy, led by America’s Cup sailor Ed Baird won five out of six match races, placing third in the overall ranking. The team was less fortunate in the fleet races, where they ranked 13th due to a series of major break-downs.

Heesen Sponsor Synergy RC44 Team

Heesen Yachts, world leader in design, engineering and construction of luxury superyachts, is thrilled to announce the main sponsorship of the Synergy team for the 2012 RC44 Championship, founded by America’s Cup skipper Russell Coutts back in 2007. With a mix of amateurs and professionals in the crew line-up, the class attracts some of the world’s leading business minds as their owner-drivers along with many of the world’s top international sailors. The RC44 is established as one of the world’s leading yacht racing circuits. This year’s tour offers the competitors 25 days of diverse and challenging match and fleet racing at some very different venues across Europe: 8 – 12 February; Puerto Calero – Lanzarote, 28 March – 1 April; Cascais – Portugal, 30 May – 3 June; Gmunden – Austria, 18 – 22 July; Marstrand – Sweden, 3 – 7 October; Rovinj – Croatia. Synergy Russian Sailing Team (RUS 13) races on hull number 24, launched in 2010. Boat Owners and helmsmen Valentin Zavadnikov and Leonid Lebedev together with American tactician Ed Baird will lead the team Synergy, which won 15 match races last year and finished 12th overall both in 2010 and 2011 seasons. Having also run successful TP52 and Louis Vuitton Trophy campaigns, Synergy’s goal is to develop top level yacht racing in Russia by creating professional crew to compete against the world’s best sailors. RC44 is a light-displacement, high performance, one design racing yacht conceived to be fast downwind and powerful upwind. Co-designed by four-time America’s Cup winner Russell Coutts with naval architect Andrej Justin, the class endeavours to keep competition as fair as possible by ensuring the boats are strictly identical in terms of construction, shape of hull, appendages and weight/weight distribution as well as deck layout, equipment and sail plan. With everything, from the keel to the tip of the mast, made entirely from carbon, and with a powerful sail plan, the RC44 is rapid downwind, commanding upwind and performs exceptionally in both light winds and heavier breezes. Hull, deck and stern scoop are built in sandwich construction of epoxy resin and exclusively carbon unidirectional and biaxial fabrics, while the twill carbon woven rowing is used to give a smooth, clear, carbon look finish on all external surfaces. The keel is built of carbon pre-preg material in carbon moulds post cured at high temperature and pressure in an autoclave. A weed cutter is fitted in the keel leading edge. The trim tab is built in carbon with RTM technology. The lead-antimony bulb is cast in CNC machined steel mould for high precision and faired with epoxy compound. The rudder and tapered rectangular section rudder shaft are one piece carbon built with RTM technology in a high precision female mould. The rudder shaft structure is FEM optimised and dimensioned according to ABS loads for speed of over 26 knots.


Horizon Announce TYIA and MIASF Association

Horizon is pleased to assist in a press conference announcing a partnership between the Taiwan Yacht Industry Association (TYIA) and the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) at the Horizon display during the Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show on Saturday, February 18th from 10AM – 12PM. During the event, John Lu, Horizon CEO and President of the TYIA, and Kristina Hebert, President of the MIASF, will sign a letter of intent to establish a mutually beneficial relationship for the advancement of the global yacht industry. During the conference, the TYIA will also announce plans for a 2014 Taiwan International Boat Show located in Kaohsiung City, and the event will close with tours of Taiwan-built yachts on display at the Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show, including the Horizon V74 and PC58. The TYIA and MIASF are both dedicated to progressing the yacht industry in their respective areas, and through a close working relationship, the two associations will endeavor to bring growth and development to the industry as a whole.

Horizon at Hainan Rendez Vous

Horizon announces their participation in the Hainan Rendezvous, held from April 5th – 8th, 2012, where they will showcase three luxury yachts: RP120 MUSES, CC110 Lady Gaga, and a new E54. According to the rendezvous organizer, the RP120 MUSES and CC110 Lady Gaga are among the top five largest megayachts attending. The Hainan Rendezvous is the ultimate luxury lifestyle show in the Chinese Riviera Hainan. During the 4-day event, Horizon will host a series of activities, including invitation-only parties on Lady Gaga and sea trials on the E54. Detailed tours of MUSES will also be offered, as the RP120 has been selected as a finalist in the “2012 World Superyacht Awards” and is currently the largest new megayacht on the Chinese yacht market. Horizon’s new office in Hainan is expected to be finished before the start of the rendezvous, the office will serve as a sales and support center for clients in the Chinese market.


Moonen Two Refits

Having recently completed the build-off of a Dixon 120 and the refitting of a custom Heesen motoryacht, Moonen Refits has now embarked on two new projects. The Moonen 72 SJS is being comprehensively upgraded technically and aesthetically while the Moonen 84 Aurora is being given a brand-new paint system. SJS was launched as Lady Jalinka in 2001, an impressive example of the Moonen 72 displacement range and the first yacht designed in a successful partnership with Rene van der Velden. Her new owners brought SJS back home to Moonen following their first cruise in Scandinavia last summer in order to customise her to their requirements. The exhaust system has been redesigned to bring the sound levels below even Moonen's renowned high standards. A complete new dashboard is being fitted along with a new navigation system, while new upholstery and leather for the sofa will ensure that the wheelhouse looks as good as she operates. The main lounge is being given a new ceiling, TV + lift and settees, while the three lower deck suites are being given a fresh individual colour scheme. Meanwhile, the owners of the Moonen 84 Aurora have brought their dark-blue beauty - originally launched in 2004 - back to the yard for a complete new paint job. As often, the Moonen Refits team is partnering with the acclaimed Dutch experts from Klaver Yachtpainting for this type of specialised work.


Ranger Tugs Deliver 100 T-29

Ranger Tugs is pleased to announce the delivery of the 100th Ranger Tug 29 to her new owners. The 100th boat was sold by Marc Grove, owner of Wefings Marine, the Apalachicola, Florida-based Ranger Tugs dealer. Marc was also responsible for the sale of the first R29 in 2009 which was also Wefings Marine's 100th anniversary year. The R29 was introduced in 2009 and has remained a popular model of the trailerable trawlers since her debut. Marc sold the 100th hull at the 2011 Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show to new owners, Ruth and Wally Naset, who will take delivery in Sumerland Key, FL and plan to cruise their home waters in the Florida Keys and beyond. Wefings Marine has also committed to purchasing the first R31 and will have boats available at the Miami, Jacksonville and Baypoint Boat Shows this year.


Riva Carlo Birthday

Everything is ready in Sarnico to celebrate Carlo Riva, the globally renowned and esteemed entrepreneur whose unique ingenuity has left an indelible mark in the history of pleasure boating and who, over the years, was capable of turning the Riva brand and the Sarnico boatyard (which have been part of the Ferretti Group since the year 2000) into a reference for the entire Italian and global boating sector. I have always cruised towards Riva as one would cruise towards a longed-for horizon, and I have always considered Carlo Riva as a master a owe a lot to, from both a professional and a personal standpoint. This is why I am delighted to be able to give him my best wishes for this extraordinary moment in his outstanding life - says Ferretti Group’s Chairman Norberto Ferretti. Carlo Riva was born in 1922, he is an engineer and was appointed “Pionere della Nautica” by UCINA (the Italian Marine Industry Association) in 1988 and “Personnalité de la Mer” by Albert II of Monaco in 2005; today, on 24th February, he blows out 90 candles. Born into a family of boat builders, he had an immense passion for boats and boat building since his early years and was then the Master who, in the 1950s, turned this brand into a synonym of style, status and perfection, also thanks to models like Ariston and Tritone, Sebino and Florida, all the way to Aquarama, which was launched in 1962. All crafts which have made Riva a symbol of Made in Italy creations all over the world and were the object of desire for noble people, actors, sports champions, businessmen and celebrities. Among them, it is enought to mention Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot and Liz Taylor, Sean Connery and Jean Paul Belmondo, Richard Burton and Jackie Stewart. But there were also royalties, princes and sheikhs from all over the world. The motor boat Aquarama, whose 50th anniversary is being celebrated this year, embodied the triumph of Carlo Riva’s production philosophy, becoming the symbol of the shipyard and of the Riva brand everywhere in the world. However, celebrations will not end with Carlo Riva's birthday and the anniversary of his legendary Aquarama: these important occasions will indeed usher in a long series of events that will unravel throughout the year and will culminate in the celebrations, in June, of the brand’s 170th anniversary.  On that occasion, a special website will be created, featuring in-depth, interesting information about the 170 fantastic years of this business adventure, characterised by inexhaustible passion for innovation, design, and the constant improvement of the boats' quality and safety, all aspects which have turned Riva into a true icon in the world of luxury and international boating.

Riva Special Guest at Arte Fiera Bologna

Riva, a brand by Ferretti Group, took part with the Aquariva by Marc Newson at Arte Fiera, the contemporary art exhibition that took place at the venue of BolognaFiere form 27th to 30th January 2012. The Aquariva by Marc Newson was the special guest of Arte Fiera, the annual event that celebrated its 36th edition, making Bologna the Italian centre for modern and contemporary art during the last week end. The Aquariva project by Marc Newson is the result of the partnership of two of the greatest representatives of International design: Officina Italiana Design – the studio which has been designing for 20 years the style of the crafts by Riva, manufactured in the glorious shipyards funded by Pietro Riva in 1842 – and Marc Newson - the famous Australian designer who is the protagonist with his works of many collections, even permanent ones, in the greatest museums and art galleries in the world. This artistic union led to the review of the historic 33-foot model featuring smooth and elegant lines, through which Newson expressed its personal view of nautical design. The result is the creation of an exclusive Aquariva model, a timeless classic, connecting the past with the present, tradition and innovation. The Aquariva by Newson is an extraordinary match of style and functionality, a glance to the period of the Dolce Vita of the 50’s and 60’s which looks towards the future, in line with the latest trends of nautical design. This result has also been achieved thanks to the special materials chosen by the Australian designer: the wood-like textile-based laminate (a phenol composite, the forerunner of fiberglass), used for the deck area and the helm station; the anodized aluminum instead of steel and chrome brass, an unusual choice in the nautical sector which allowed giving a high-tech touch to the classic and elegant flair of Riva, a myth of the sector, a synonym for the exclusivity and luxury of the Italian style. The exclusive Aquariva by Newson was launched last year as limited edition, 22 hulls only, and is distributed all over the world through the Riva dealers’ network.


Riviera Launches Ultimate Event in May

For the first time in Riviera’s 32-year history, Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury boat builder will host its biggest and most unique owner experience. Almost 5,000 Riviera owners from all over the world will be invited to participate in the inaugural festival which will celebrate Riviera’s rich history, the global Riviera family of boat owners and the joys of boating with a raft of 63 individual owners only educational and social events over four days. Riviera’s director of brand and communications Stephen Milne said the Riviera Festival will be a truly unique boating experience and will be Riviera’s most ambitious project to date. Riviera owners will have exclusive access to a full calendar of events held over the four days of the festival from educational seminars and hands-on workshops through to fun, social and vibrant activities. There will be pod drive comparisons where people can sea trial a Zeus or IPS pod driver boats alongside each other to better understand each systems individual capabilities and performance. Riviera will also host factory tours for owners and the general public and there will be free parking on site at Coomera. Riviera owners are encouraged to contact their local Riviera dealer to register their interest in receiving The Festival’s full program details.

Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic Gains International Interest

A new international standard for light tackle deep sea sport fishing was created at last year’s Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic when 5,000 kilograms of Southern Bluefin Tuna were caught and released at the annual event. Following on from this success Riviera, Australia’s largest and most awarded pleasure boat builder is once again sponsoring the game fishing event. The brain-child of philanthropist and passionate Riviera owner Peter Teakle, the Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic has become a much-anticipated event in Australia’s tuna capital. Mr Teakle said last year’s results were sensational. Riviera’s Director of Brand and Communications Stephen Milne said the Port Lincoln Tuna Classic was a unique event as it was open to boats of all sizes, including trailer boats. The 2012 Riviera Port Lincoln Tuna Classic will be held just after Easter on April 14 and 15. Entries must be received by Tuesday March 13.

Riviera Strong Sales in Miami

Riviera, Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury boat builder has recorded strong sales at the Miami International Yacht and Brokerage Show which closed on Monday evening this week with six new boat sales totalling USD$10.4 million and further sales are expected following sea trials. In Miami, Riviera’s director of brand and communications Stephen Milne said he was very grateful to the US team for their great commitment and passion they have shown towards displaying Riviera at the show. Among the sales were two 63 Enclosed Flybridges, two 53 Enclosed Flybridges, one 43 Open Flybridge and one 5000 Sport Yacht. Riviera Yachts USA director Chris McCafferty said the five day show was a huge success for Riviera and he congratulated the effort made by all the dealers and their representatives. On the Sunday night of the show, Riviera’s exclusive Miami dealer, Yachting Experts, hosted a pre-Mardi Gras VIP cocktail party for some 200 guests. Betty De Varona from Yachting Experts said the Riviera display turned into the French Quarter with vibrant music, aromatic foods, masks and plenty of colourful costumes. Mr McCafferty said the Miami Yacht and Brokerage show was regarded as one of the world’s leading boat shows and it was pleasing to see the positive response to the Riviera brand.


Sunseeker Prince of Wales Apprentice Medal

Sunseeker's Manhattan 63 Marine Engineer, Chris Schreiber, has been awarded a Queens Medal by HRH Prince of Wales for being one of the best Marine Engineering Apprentices in the UK. The event took place at St James's Palace in London, on Thursday 16th February 2012 and was attended by over 300 guests, consisting of prominent figures from the UK maritime industry, including Sunseeker's Director of Engineering Jonathan Goldie and Training Manager Alex Bowman. The annual Queens Silver Medal competition is hosted by a London Livery Company, the Right Worshipful Company of Shipwrights, of which the Prince of Wales is now the Prime Warden. It currently operates as a charity supporting and promoting education for young people within the maritime sector. During the competition Chris had to spend a gruelling five days in the hills of Northumberland with 18 other marine engineers taking part in various leadership, team and problem solving challenges including technical presentations. The top six candidates then had to attend a stringent panel interview at Ironmongers Hall in Central London with senior Shipwrights.

Sunseeker Prepares for Rallye 2012

Rallye Sunseeker, the largest Motorsport event in the south of England's sporting calendar, is taking place over the 24th and 25th of February 2012. Organised by Southern Car Club Ltd, Sunseeker will be the official title sponsor for the 14th year running.  Rallye Sunseeker is the current 'Rally of the Year 2011', having scooped the award at the British Rally Championship Awards last November, this will be its 2nd year in the BRC. The rally will kick off at Poole Quay, home to Sunseeker's headquarters and is expected to attract up to 10,000 spectators. The event will officially open with a ceremonial start at Poole Quay from 6.30pm on Friday 25th of February, in the presence of the Mayor of Poole. Barbados Tourism Authority has joined forces with the event to Co-Host the Scrutiny and Documentation Show held at the Bournemouth International Centre on Friday 24th February. Scrutiny in previous years has always attracted lots of spectators and the use of the Purbeck Hall will be of massive benefit to all those who attend this year's event, where Screens2Go will have their large TV screen in the hall to provide rally features and interviews. The rally action continues on Saturday the 25th of February with special stages in Ringwood, Uddens & Wareham Forest and Somerley Park. Each special stage has its own dedicated car park providing access to the designated viewing areas. This year, Somerley Park will not only be hosting two special stages of the rally, but will also host the adrenaline packed Vale Motors Somerley Extravaganza. All venues are open to public, featuring live commentary, toilets, catering, hospitality, classic car display and a rally stimulator. The ceremonial finish is anticipated to take place at 5.30pm on Saturday the 25th in the presence of the Mayor of Bournemouth, at the Bournemouth Pier Approach.

Sunseeker Sponsors Golf Charity Event

Sunseeker International, Sunseeker Middle East and Sunseeker Seychelles were delighted to be premier partners at the recent Emirates Airline Invitational charity pro-am golf event held at the Kyle Phillips designed Yas Links Golf Course, Abu Dhabi. Hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah, additional premier partners to the event included Landrover and Hawker Beechcraft. Sunseeker proudly displayed a stunning 30 Metre Yacht in the Yas Marine, adjacent to the official host Hotel, the Yas Viceroy. Now in its sixth year this corporate event has evolved into one of the most exclusive and prestigious one-day pro-am golf tournaments in the world. Players at the 2012 tournament included Graeme McDowell 2010 US open champion, Simon Dyson, Sergio Garcia, Colin Montgomerie, and Ross Fisher, to sports personalities such as ex-Dutch International footballer Ruud Gullit. The 2012 Emirates Airline Invitational, a tournament officially sanctioned by the European Tour and one that held Ryder Cup points for tour players proved a fantastic stage on which to promote the Sunseeker product to a global audience. Richie Ramsay shot a course record 10 under par 62 to finish two shots ahead of Denmark’sThorborn Olesen and England’s Richard Finch, and was crowned champion of the 2012 Emirates Airline Invitational, receiving the top prize of $100,000, half of which will be donated to a charity of his choice.


Tiara Announces Internet Partner

Tiara Yachts, a Subsidiary of S2 Yachts, Inc., one of the oldest privately-held boat manufacturers in the United States, is pleased to announce the movement of all the company’s digital services to Tampa Web design, Web development and interactive marketing agency, Bayshore Solutions, as its select Internet partner. Tiara Yachts’ embraces a dynamic quest to be the best, not as measured against others, but focused on the ultimate goal of perfection. The family-led and privately owned professionally managed company’s core values center on integrity and delivering an exceptional boating experience to customers. When the firm set out to find the right digital partner to achieve success in today’s market, it was apparent that well over 90% of the prospective candidates could not fit the bill. In seeking the digital partner the company would entrust its 55 year history-strong brand, Tiara Yachts insisted on a firm with the qualities of presenting data-driven solutions, coupled with passion for continuously achieving exceptional results, fueled by a core value of doing the right thing – even when no one is looking. In evaluating Bayshore Solutions, Tiara Yachts recognized not only a dead match for their own philosophy, but a proven track record of delivering creative, functional and integrated excellence in digital marketing.


Vicem New Model Names

Vicem Yachts top Turkish shipyard leader in the production of timeless design luxury motoryachts, lobster boats and superyachts announces the modification of all models names in the range. From February 2012 Vicem decided to name every model using the LOA; Length Over All, instead of LH Length of Hull.

February 28, 2012

Project: Bering 50

Bering is a fairly young US builder, who builds Explorer yachts from fifty up to 78 feet.  So far the company has launched two models, a prototype, and the 55.  The looks are based from the Norwegian fishing boat, with a modern minimal touch.  Unlike many competitors in this segment Bering has decided to stick to steel for building its yachts with a declared 3/8 of an inch thickness used for the bottom.  The Bering 50 will be the entry level model with a two deck layout and a flybridge.  Huge customization is a big factor in any Bering, and the plans presented show four interior choices; of two or three cabins. A huge difference in the interior plans is also a choice where to fit the engine, with a midships, or aft location option for this.  Single or twin engine choices are available as is hybrid by Regen Nautic.  Cruising speed is 8 knots, which should a good range even with the standard five thousand liters fuel tank, and more so with the ten thousand optional choice. 

February 27, 2012

New Model: Nimbus 34 Nova HT

It’s premier for the Nimbus 34 Nova HT at the Göteborg Boat show this February. The hardtop is of an entirely new design and can be fitted with an electric canvas canopy, and a door facing aft or an electric glass sunroof and fixed sliding doors.  The electric canopy maximises the roof opening, both width and lengthwise, providing extra light and airiness on sunny days. The hood features a laminated rail along the leading edge that makes for a particularly elegant and secure closing function. The cover door facing aft contributes to giving you as much open air feeling as possible and results in an entirely “open” layout. The hardtop, fitted with the electric glass sunroof, features heavy stainless glazed sliding doors facing aft. The sunroof is the same model as in the Nimbus 365 Coupé, recently chosen as the “European Motorboat of the Year 2012” in Düsseldorf.  Other new features include integrated spots in the right places for good, functional lighting. For example, the spotlight illuminating the dining table is so positioned as not to dazzle. To provide a more comfortable and finished feeling, the ceiling is covered with textile panels. Heavy duty stainless steel cover on the D-post and background lighting of the Nimbus emblem provides an elegant and high quality impression.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.49 m (37.6ft)
Beam - 3.32 m
Displacement - 5650 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 600 l
Water Capacity - 120 l
Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths
Max Persons - 10
Engines - 1 x Volvo D6 370hp, 2 x Volvo D4 260hp
Propulsion - Volvo dual propeller stern drive 
Certification - CE B

February 26, 2012

Project: ISA Yachts 41m Classic

Designed by Andrea Vallicelli, this new ISA Yachts 41 meter is developed from the 39 meter platform what is a three-deck displacement motor yacht that caught the owner's attention for her modern design and clever use of the space. This sale of the 41m Classic is also very important for ISA coming from a repeatable customer, with a delivery schedule date for 2013. ISA is a yard that sticks to provide owners with large innovative super yachts that express personality and luxury, and this 41 meter Classic is the result of the yard's desire to propose its own changes, without the restrictions of the current trends. The design of this steel hull aluminium upper structure super yacht is based on three fundamental elements: the visual centre back on the stern, an aggressive streamlined bow and the lines linking the stern and the roll bar continued by the two spoilers connecting the main deck with the upper deck. The final result of these apparently contrasting elements offer an extremely balanced appearance and a compact lightweight feel. The interior design will be executed by ISA.  Powered by two CAT 1001hp engines the 41m Classic will reach a max speed of 14 knots. The owner went more for a guest layout; with one master and four guest cabins, it can accommodate ten guests in luxury and comfort.