September 10, 2013

Project: Sunseeker 55 Manhattan

Sunseeker, always in a research to redevelop itself shows us this new 55 Manhattan project which will be presented live in the coming days in Cannes and then in Southampton boat shows, a flybridge motor yacht of a long coming evolution.  This latest Sunseeker, was actually born as a 50 model more or less about a decade ago, developed to a 52 in 2007, 53 in 2010 and now finds its latest development as the 55 Manhattan.  The most noticeable difference in this new entry level of the Manhattan range is definitely the large S-shape large view side windows serving the cabins below, something which the Poole builder started on the 80 Predator over a year ago, and now seems to be extended to all models. But this is not the only difference from the 53, as the 55 features a larger flybridge extended in length, and also a redesigned interior which has a free choice when ordering new of having the galley on the lower or the main deck.  

September 9, 2013

New Model: Atlantic 56 Twin Deck

Presented as a project in 2009 its been a long time coming for the new Atlantic model which finally sees the water, the 56 Twin Deck is a revolution from this Dutch firm which is famous for its aft cabin cruisers featuring a hull design by John Benett.  This new model is a challenge to the Northern boater who wants a motor boat usable all year round thanks to some important changes. The 56 Twin Deck to start has a a full forward cabin layout, designer duties entrusted to Dutch firm Vripack, and also features Volvo IPS pod drives.  Looking on the outside the 56 Twin Deck is a bit of a hybrid from an aft cabin to a sport cruiser thanks to the raised aft deck the 56 Twin Deck offers three double cabins below with an owners room amidships and full beam layout.  A relaxing living is located on the main deck this featuring a C-shaped lounger and two sofas, all this behind the helm station to starboard. Below in between the cabins is also a C-shaped dinette and the L-shape galley. A three meter plus tender garage is located to aft. Power is twin Volvo 435hp with IPS pod drives which give max speed of 24 knots.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.0 m (55.7ft)
Waterline Length - 13.4 m
Beam - 4.86 m
Draft - 1.10 m 
Displacement - 19 t
Fuel Capacity - 2564 l
Water Capacity - 790 l
Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives
Speed - 24 knots max
Project - Vripack
Certification - CE B

September 7, 2013

Project: Overmarine Mangusta 132

Much has been done over the past few years in terms of investments and extending the range by Overmarine Group and the new Mangusta 132 has been developed in line with these strategic choices. This yacht is the natural evolution of Mangusta 130, with a number of important differences.  The interiors and exterior of this highly versatile yacht feature a perfect combination of high performance and on-board comfort.  The new S3Np Ka.Me.Wa. Rolls Royce waterjets featuring improved efficiency have been combined with two 4600hp MTU engines. As result, this yacht can comfortably reach a speed of over 36 knots without vibrating and at very low noise levels.  Mangusta 132 has a new hull to which the hydrodynamic improvements already introduced on the 165, the current flagship from Overmarine, have been added and is fitted with zero speed gyroscopic stabilisers usable at anchor and under way. Without taking anything away from the usual racy, sporty lines of all Mangusta yachts, this new series features a generously-sized sundeck which can be used as a private area for the owner and also have a double driving position. Distribution of the interiors is the result of a careful architectural study of the volumes of the yacht, which aim to ensure maximum onboard comfort and the best, complete separation between the guest and crew areas. The layout makes it possible to have up to five guest cabins, but as with all Mangusta yachts, the Overmarine Group Design Department can offer a range of interior layouts as well as style solutions and personalised decor, thus managing to fully satisfy the taste and wishes of all owners.  Mangusta 132, a yacht in which comfort, internal and external volumes and performance merge together in perfect harmony.

September 6, 2013

New Model: Princess 82 Motor Yacht

Princess continue to extend its Motor Yacht flybridge range with the launching of this new 82 model, which was presented officially in the fall of 2012.  The 82 Motor Yacht continues Princess latest style evolution who in recent years we have seen in a less conservative nature then to the past, especially to what regards outside looks. Does the acquisition by French Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton has anything to do about this?  Anyways, Princess has been a recession prove builder in the past years, and has even seen growth in these hard times. This definitely shows perfect new model planning and a well structured company.  The designers at Princess for the 82 Motor Yacht did a fine job looks wise, with a sleek exterior looking well proportioned.  Inside the 82 Motor Yacht features a conservative layout, with four double cabins one of which is the full beam amidships owners stateroom.  Crew accommodation is a cabin sleeping two located aft, with this area also including a relaxing sofa.  The main deck is again the usual yacht layout with a welcoming relaxing saloon, dining table, galley, and the helm with an adjacent dinette to port at fore peak.  Power option for the 82 Motor Yacht is three options with the large choice being the Cat 1723hp with max speeds up to 34 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 25.5 m (83.3ft)
Hull Length - 25.2
Beam - 5.74 m
Draft - 1.8 m
Displacement - 55000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 6442 l
Water Capacity - 1386 l
Accommodation - 8 guest berths in 4 cabins, 1 crew cabin sleeping 2
Engines - 2 x Cat C32A 1622hp, C32A 1723hp, MTU 10V2000 M93 1624hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 34 knots max with Cat 1723hp
Construction - resin infused
Project - Bernard Olesinski

September 5, 2013

Project: Mulder 48 Saloon Boat

The ‘Built by Mulder’ label invites clients and architects to create a design outside the Mulder gamma, but emphasizes the superior Mulder quality. One of the ‘Built by Mulder’ successes is the 77 feet steel motoryacht “Eleonore”, that attracted a great deal of interest at the Amsterdam in-water Boat Show in 2009. This yacht was built to a design by Werner Yacht Design, who is also the designer of the 48” Saloonboat. The Saloonboat measures 14.42 meters will be built of steel. The 48-foot boat will be fully equipped with floor heating and will have a beautiful classic interior of Sipo mahogany. Three large sliding windows on both sides of the saloon create a tremendous spacious feeling while cruising the Amsterdam channels. Powered by 88 hp Steyr installation, the Saloonboat “has to become the most beautiful saloon boat of Amsterdam”, thus the client. The 48” Saloonboat will be constructed at the yard in Voorschoten and will be delivered in March 2014.

September 4, 2013

New Model: Henriques 42 Express Hardtop

Basing itself on the popular 42 series from Henriques, the New Jersey US builder presents a new  Express Hardtop model in this line.  Interestingly the owner of hull number one of this new Henriques is on his third boat from the builder, and before this he owned a 42 Express; that is the model without the enclosed hardtop. This style of sportfishing cruisers coming to a more core builder definitely comes from what other brands have done in the last years to offer a fully enclosed three side hard-top deck allowing for a more practical use of the boat all year round. The Henriques 42 Express has its success for being one of the best sport fishing dedicated platform in its size, and with this version the builder definitely wants to capitalize more on the cruise side to owners who want to fish and cruise as possible.  Inside accommodation of the Henriques 42 is a sport fishing standard offered in an open plan layout, with a master double berth to fore, L-shaped settee, galley, and a shower head.  The exterior is typical sportfishing flavour offering a split level deck with the aft lower part fully dedicated to fishing.  Two steps up and you have the hardtop covered area which offers a large L-shaped settee, and three forward facing settees with the helm located centrally.   
Technical Data:
Hull Length - 12.8 m (42ft)
Beam - 4.49 m
Draft - 1.14 m
Displacement - 16556 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2498 l
Water Capacity - 454 l
Accommodation - 2 + 2 berths  
Engines - 2 x Cats C12 715hp (up to 900hp possible)
Speed - 28 knots cruise
Propulsion - line shaft
Construction - hand laid solid fiberglass build, divinycell core used in the sides

September 3, 2013

Project: Cranchi 53 Eco Trawler Long Distance

As those who follow us here, or the adventures of the very well known Cranchi know this model was actually presented as a 50 project back in the fall of last year 2012.  Come early this year and this model becomes a 51, and now just before the boat shows it is renamed as 53 Eco Trawler Long Distance.  In my book the 53 Eco Trawler is a big project from Cranchi and this for sure is nothing new for the North East located Italian builder, who always takes challenges with a very mature attitude. I was definitely impressed when for example they started there new Yacht building facility which lasted five years in the making until the first 64 model was launched.  The 53 Eco Trawler Long Distance is on the other hand a different challenge, for a growing side of the motor boat market; that of medium range and more of a living attitude use cruisers and yachts.  Yachts which to be fair are not slow, but not even fast but can make between five hundred and one thousand nautical miles, if you make some calculations in how you cruise and what the engines are drinking.  The 53 Eco Trawler Long Distance has some interesting details from its Volvo IPS pod power propulsion and hull design for them, to solar panels in the flybridge to power electrics, four choices options to the third cabin, and last but important an on-board comfort dedicated to long periods.      

September 2, 2013

New Model: Ferretti 750

The first hull of Ferretti 750 was launched at the Group marina of Cattolica, in Italy. This model represents another step forward in the development of the Ferretti Yacht range over 70 feet. The world premiere of this yacht will take place at the coming edition of the Cannes boat show, and then will be put on display in Genoa a month later. This model was entirely built at the Ferretti Group shipyard in Cattolica. Ferretti 750, features an 22 meters plus overall length and a full beam one foot short of six meters.  This model as it is noticeable to the brand fans is the evolution of the successful 720, and features many relevant innovations, both inside and outside, which provide it a brand new look and style on board.  my favourite is defiantly the radar arch which takes a similar look from the new 690.  The 720 is a result from the settled twenty years plus collaboration between Studio Zuccon International Project, and the Ferretti Groups Advanced Yacht Technology and Design, the  companies team of engineers, architects, and designers. Ferretti 750 immediately strikes the attention for its outer profile, which is even sleeker and sportier, thanks to the new flybridge with an elongated tail with the new SAT domes recessed lodging, providing to minimize the aesthetic effect of the domes on the profile. The model will be presented in its standard version, without hard top; upon request, it can be equipped with a large bimini top, approximately 5 meter long. The flybridge is even more spacious, since it is davit-free. The sunbathing area of Ferretti 750 is available in other two versions, fitted with roll bar and built-in bimini top, or with hard top and awning. Three different solutions highlighting the great versatility of this model. The sun pad beyond the helm station was enlarged, for a higher comfort of the guests on board.  The second innovation on Ferretti 750 is the outer stern area. The distinguishing feature is the electrohydraulic swim platform, which is more than 1.5 meter long. It can be lowered 50 cm underwater, making the launching of the tender easier. The swim platform can lift up to 450 kg and it can host a tender up to approximately four meters long. A large storage cabinet with tilting door has been installed at the swim platform level, in which water and diving equipment can be stored. Built-in stairs have been fitted starboard at the stern, in order to guarantee an easier access to the swim platform; while portside a built-in seat allows comfortably getting ready to dive.  As for interiors, Ferretti 750 feature many new decorating details and many different layout options, designed to cope with the specific needs of the different international markets where the Group is present. On the main deck, for example, there are two different versions available: in the first one, the galley, the helm station, and the dinette are separated from the salon and the living area by a sliding door. The second version features a country-style galley, open to the bow and to the stern. This last solution makes the main deck a wide open space, which is particularly suitable for the American, and Anglo-Saxon market. As for the lower deck, many different solutions have been studied, with the possibility to create dedicated areas for business of for entertainment, more suitable for new Eastern market owners. Ferretti 750 will be available with two different engines: two 1381hp MTU, or as optional version the larger 1524 units again from the renowned engine maker. As for performance, with the standard engines the top speed is 30 knots, with a cruising speed of 27, while with the optional choice adds maximum up to 32 and cruising speed also by two nautical miles per hour.
Technical Data:
LOA - 22.75 m (74.8ft)
Hull Length - 21.6 m
Waterline Length - 18.9 m
Beam - 5.70 m
Draft - 1.85 m
Displacement - 59 t loaded, 49.8 unloaded
Fuel Capacity - 5000 l
Water Capacity - 990 l
Max Persons - 20
Accommodation - 8 berths in 4 cabins, 3 crew berths in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 10v2000 M84 1381hp, 10v2000 M93 1524hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 32 knots max 29 cruise with MTU 1524hp, 30 max 27 cruise with 1381 hp *estimates
Range - 320 nm at cruise
Hull Shape - warped Vee with spray rails 12 degrees deadrise aft
Project - Zuccon International, Ferretti AYTT  
Certification - CE 2003/44 A, modules B + F + Aa Sound Emmisions RINA Spa

September 1, 2013

blogger - New Owners

It is always good news to see a new buyer for a builder which went down, more so when the brand they purchased represents a following and an important history to boating in general. 
This Summer we had two important brands who found new ownership; Sealine who closed its doors past Spring with Hanse Group taking the reigns now and what should be also a production move in Germany, and Hatteras Cabo owned by Brunswick since 2006 and past month was purchased by Navis HCY of Philadelphia based Versa Capital.
Sealine's move in my opinion should be one of success considering what the Hanse Group have done with past purchased brands, i.e. a success.  Look at Fjord or Moody as examples.  Sealine have also that image which sits very well with what Hanse offers from all its brand. Is it not the minimal boutique in production boat building, and Sealine definitely went this direction since the SC35 was launched in 2007 and the models which followed. 
The Hatteras Cabo move is something entirely different as in the past private equity investment first showed both sides of the coin of what they can do to great boating brands.  So far there is no news about the agreement between Brunswick and Versa, but what we know is that production stays in New Bern, North Carolina for both the brands, and that all workers shall be retained.  That so far sounds a good start! 
Hatteras represents a core important History element of US boat building and a huge following, and while today it only builds 54 feet plus, old smaller models have an unlimited highly dedicated fan base. 
The difference here in the purchases done above is that Hanse has that important boat building experience it needs to survive the hard times, and Hatteras Cabo owners are in new waters for them.  It will be interesting to see how the second will fair after some years. 

August 31, 2013

Monthly News - August 2013

-pic of the month- Viking Marlin Mania

Azimut Yachts Gala In Newport
MarineMax Inc., the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer, partnered with Azimut Yachts to host the 2013 Newport Azimut Gala, at the Newport Harbor Hotel. The event brought together more than 150 MarineMax and Azimut owners in the prestigious setting of Newport, RI, and was a grand celebration of yachts and fine customer service.  Guests spent the weekend enjoying the sights, sounds, tastes, and of course beautiful yachts. Cocktail parties, celebrity chef cooking lessons, a scenic lobster bake, dinghy poker run, and a luxurious gala were just a few of the exciting things that took place. 


Horizon Unique Sea Trial
Last month, the Australian owner of the new Horizon E73 motoryacht "Justified" traveled to Taiwan for his first sea trial and was eager to travel and explore the island for his first journey on board; Horizon arranged a unique sea trial experience for the owner, taking him on a tour of Kaohsiung's beautiful coast while also demonstrating the performance and seaworthiness of his new yacht. The sea trial began from Horizon's Premier shipyard, and the E73 motoryacht cruised 40 minutes to Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area, which offers a wealth of natural parkland along with other amenities, such as a world-class speedway, yacht marina and luxury hotels. The new owner took in Dapeng Bay's beautiful scenery from the aft deck and noted how impressed he was with both "Justified's performance and also her comfortable ride during their journey; he also expressed his thanks to Horizon for a memorable first trip on his new yacht. "Justified" will be delivered to Australia at the end of September, and Horizon wishes the new owner many more adventures on board his new E73 motoryacht.


Jarrett Bay Projects Big and Small
The 54' custom Jarrett Bay, formerly known as Shorter Pie and Pole Position, is Jarrett Bay’s 25th hull and now back under its builder ownership who want to showcase how we they can give new life to an older pride and joy.

Jarrett Bay Corralling Cajun Blues
Not to be lost in all the major tournament wins and craftsmanship awards the 77′ Blank Check has been making this season, Jarrett Bay hull #43, Whoo Dat and her crew deserve some attention and praise for their recent accomplishments! Fishing the Green Canyon during the Grand Isle Rodeo, Whoo Dat fought an epic 13 hour battle, landing a 705 lb blue marlin - the 2nd largest in the 85 year history of the tournament. On July 17th, the team put 10 year old Kaleb Richardson and his friend Cole on 4 blue marlin, with the experienced junior angling duo releasing 2 blues apiece. What made this trip extra special was at least one of the fish was initially spotted by the crew of a passing workboat, the Ted Smith, who radio-ed the Whoo Dat and stuck around to take video of Kaleb catching and releasing the blue marlin! 


Mulder Favorite Club Fifteen Years
In 1998 the Favorite Club was founded during a meeting of a number of enthusiastic Mulder Favorite sailors who would like to know fellow Favorite lovers. The club now counts 52 Favorite-cruisers. In august the Favorite Club visited the new Mulder Shipyard during their fifteenth Favorite Weekend. Eleven Favorite-cruisers with 55 Favorite owners from across the country, sailed to Zoeterwoude-Rijndijk where they had a tour around the sustainable and economically built new yard. After a lunch with Mulder Jr. and Sr. the Favorite members continued their cruise.

Mulder Gloria Ready for the USA
At the new Mulder Shipyard in Zoeterwoude a Mulder 73 Wheelhouse is being refitted. After three years of sailing in Europe, “M/Y Gloria” is being prepared for her new berth in the USA. In addition to regular maintenance, the electrical system will be converted to an American system of 110V/60Hz. Because her berth in America has a subtropical climate, a bimini and a mosquito screen are placed on the 73-footer. The Mulder 73 Wheelhouse is the second Mulder yacht that will be sailing in the USA. In July of this year the Mulder 75 Wheelhouse “Strathearn” has been delivered in the North-East region of the USA.


Riviera 25% Sale Increase and Two Awards in Sydney Show
Riviera’s new 50 Enclosed Flybridge impressed luxury boat buyers with its world release at the Sydney International Boat Show with multiple sales of this model among Riviera’s AUD$14.8 million in total retail sales. Australia’s favourite and most awarded luxury boat builder enjoyed an extremely successful show with 10 new boat sales across all models from 36 feet to 63 feet including one 3600 Sport Yacht, one 445 SUV, three 50 Enclosed Flybridges, two 5000 Sport Yachts, one Belize 54, one 565 SUV, and one 63 Enclosed Flybridge. Riviera’s chairman and owner Rodney Longhurst said he was extremely proud of Riviera’s achievements at the Sydney International Boat Show.  Riviera’s chief executive officer Wes Moxey said Riviera’s new models have been extremely well received. Preparations are already underway for the Auckland On Water Boat Show in New Zealand in September, the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show in October, and the Gold Coast International Marine Expo in November.

Riviera Dealer Awards
Marine industry excellence, innovation and exceptional customer service was recognised at Riviera’s esteemed annual Dealer Awards held in Sydney during the Sydney International Boat Show. Australia’s favourite and most awarded luxury boat builder has been rewarding outstanding achievement by their long-standing dealer network since the awards inception 19 years ago. The team at R Marine South Australia were honoured to win the coveted Overall Dealership of the Year award for the second consecutive year. The team at R Marine Sydney did exceptionally well this year with the dealership winning the award for ‘Sales Excellence by a Dealership’ for the second consecutive year, the dealership’s sales consultant Pete Devery received the award for ‘Sales Excellence by an Individual’ for the second consecutive year, and R Marine Sydney service manager Cameron McGoogan received the award for ‘Service Excellence by an Individual’. Riviera’s dealer relationship manager Peter Welch said the annual Australia/New Zealand Dealer of the Year awards recognised excellence, outstanding achievement and dedication to Riviera’s loyal owners and brand. R Marine South Australia dealer principal Paul Harrop congratulated his team on such a tremendous achievement. R Marine South Australia’s managing director Ross Almond commended his team on their effort, persistence and professionalism. Paul said the introduction of the Riviera Owners Club has been very popular. R Marine Sydney’s service manager Cameron McGoogan was surprised to receive the Service Excellence award. This is the first time a shipwright has won a Riviera Dealer Service Award, which Cameron claims is a result of his team’s efforts, not an individual award. Riviera’s annual Dealer Awards continue to recognise excellence and encourage the dealer network team to strive for quality, exceptional owner care and service innovation.

Riviera New R Marine Perth Welcome Two New Team Members
Riviera’s Perth dealership, R Marine Perth, has welcomed two new members to its team. Sales professional Ben Watkins and office manager Sue Totterdell have joined long-time R Marine Perth owner care manager Tim Wright who has been providing customer support to Perth’s Riviera owners for over five years. The past few months have been a very busy time for R Marine Perth with Tim moving into a sales role for new Riviera and Belize Motoryachts as well as pre-owned boats. Tim’s strong knowledge of Riviera boats has helped the dealership achieve an impressive number of brokerage sales in the past 12 weeks. Since Tim has moved into sales, R Marine Perth has sold 12 brokerage boats and have generated a high level of new model enquiry with all of this activity, Tim is proud and very happy to welcome Ben Watkins onboard. Ben said his previous experience had given him a great insight into the broader marine industry. Tim said Sue Totterdell was also a welcome addition to the dealership and her expertise in office management would be a great asset to the growing team. Riviera CEO Wes Moxey said Riviera Australia was very focused on growing owner support in Western Australia through two dealership locations, Perth and Mandurah.


Sanlorenzo Chooses Officina Italiana Design
Sanlorenzo, the third shipyard in the world ranking of the top 20 builders over 24 meters, and the prestigious studio Officina Italiana Design recently signed an agreement for the design of the next Sanlorenzo models destined to the global yachting market, starting with its new 50/60 foot entry level in fiber-glass yacht, up to the just recently-announced new flagship: the Sanlorenzo 62Steel, a 62-meter (203ft) superyacht in steel. The partnership between Sanlorenzo and Officina Italiana Design is important news for the whole sector because it represents the natural connection between two top players of the yachting industry of the last decade: two companies that both contributed to create excellent motoryachts, always achieving global success for their cutting-edge style and standards. From this significant partnership between excellent yachting production and design will soon arise the future Sanlorenzo models that, with the total respect of the traditional family feeling that have been characterizing Sanlorenzo motoryachts for more than 50 years, will set a new benchmark for the whole international yachting industry, in terms of style and elegance, yachts with essential lines that will never become obsolete, and will always be a “true classic” for their timeless design.  The new Sanlorenzo models designed by Officina Italiana Design are already in an advanced project phase drawn by the talented designer Mauro Micheli, in perfect SL style.


Sunreef Expands In Middle East
Sunreef is now strongly exploring the Middle Eastern market and takes part in the important events in the region. The reason of that is the presence of the 70 Sunreef Power Damrak II in that area from last June until the end of September. In August 2013, Sunreef Yachts’ President, Francis Lapp, had a business meeting with the Ambassador of Poland to Qatar, Mr Robert Rostek in Doha in order to establish long term cooperation for the future. 70 Sunreef Power Damrak II is exploring the fascinating region of the United Arab Emirates and is available for viewing in the region’s most exclusive marinas. In September DAMRAK II will visit Dubai International Marine Club and will cruise to Oman.


Sunseeker Confirms Aquistion by Dalian Wanda
Sunseeker International is delighted to confirm following the approval by the relevant Chinese regulators, the acquisition of Sunseeker by Dalian Wanda Group completed on the 27th August 2013. Sunseeker will remain a British company, headquartered in Poole and will maintain its existing primary production base in Dorset, along with its current workforce and infrastructure. The existing management team will remain on the Sunseeker Boards and Robert Braithwaite, the founder of the company will continue to be involved in the business and remain as Group President. Robert and Sunseeker’s management team have made a significant reinvestment in the business, providing continuity and a strong platform for the new model programme currently being developed in Poole. The new majority shareholder, Dalian Wanda Group, China's largest premier commercial property and entertainment conglomerate, supports Sunseeker’s commitment to superior products and its premium brand, both of which will be further enhanced by their involvement in the business. The news is fantastic for the business, the wider Sunseeker family, the motor yacht industry and will allow Sunseeker to expand its global base still further while retaining its current operational and manufacturing infrastructure at the headquarters in Poole.

 
Viking 1964
Viking celebrates its 50th Anniversary this coming April and the company would like to hear from you about your Viking experiences over the years. If you have a story to tell or photos of you enjoying your Viking yacht, from the wooden boats of yesteryear to the amazing fleet that plies the waters today, please let the company know to help them get the party started.

Viking White Marlin Open Results
Over 250 boats entered for their shot at over a million dollars and the big payday went to Greg Jones' Viking 53 crew fishing on the OdinSpear. Greg's Viking, Kingfisher, was sidelined so the team took a gamble and jumped on the OdinSpear to fish the famous White Marlin Open. It turned out to be a very good decision. Angler Tommy Jones boated the top white marlin tipping the scales at 83 pounds and bringing in the biggest paycheck of the tournament. Adding to their winnings was Deacon Burke's Second Place Wahoo at 66 pounds. Jeff Collins, fishing on the Viking 61 Why Knot, had the top dolphin at 34 pounds while Dave Anderson's Viking 70 Krazy Salts' angler Bryan Graul took fifth place in the division. Krazy Salts' was also the 29th Place Release Boat. Barry Weshnak's Viking 52 Miss Annie took Second Place Tuna with Mark Donohue landing a 261 pound fish. Goin In Deep, Larry Hesse's Viking 60, claimed the Third Place Tuna with a 255 pounder caught by Michael Jamian. Top Anglers were Carmine Caruso in Fourth Place fishing on the Viking 68 Pipe Dreamer, Pat Healey in 13th on the Viking 70, William Quidley fishing on Danny Jones' Viking 56 Reel Toy taking 17th and Viking 70 angler Eric McDowell in 24th place. Of 262 boats, Vikings hit some high slots in the Top Boat division. The Viking 70 took Third, Pipe Dreamer claimed 11th, Reel Toy was 19th, the Viking 60 Orion took 22nd and Michael Poole's Viking 70 Irish Ayes was 26th.  Top Release boats were Viking 70 in Third, Orion taking 13th, Irish Ayes in 18th and Krazy Salts' 29th.

Viking Two Times a Charm
The 2nd Annual Blue Marlin Grand Championship not only broke two state marlin records but also featured some of the best fishing ever seen in the Gulf of Mexico. Angler and boat owner Chris Ferrara with his team aboard the Viking 60 Reel Fire were declared the 2013 Grand Champions. Chris shattered the former Alabama state record for blue marlin when he outlasted a fish weighing 845.8 pounds after a seven hour fight. The fish eclipsed the old mark by 66 pounds. Captain Mike Roberto helped Reel Fire team mate Ivan Duke boat the second largest tuna caught at 165.2 pounds. Rising Sons, Toby Berthelot's Viking 58, won the second place team award and unofficial hard luck honors when angler Jeremy Powers boated a blue weighing 789.8 pounds. His fish broke the 24 year-old Alabama blue marlin record for a brief time before it was toppled a couple hours later by Reel Fire's catch. That effort still earned the team a nice payday and the second place tournament award. Lady angler Laurie McVay, fishing aboard Reel Addiction, a Viking 56 run by Captain Scooter Porto, took third place after she whipped a blue marlin weighing 722.2 pounds. Her catch also earned her the Top Lady Angler title. And as an added bonus, she also got engaged on the awards stage after tournament co-director Rocky Jones proposed and presented her with a ring. Cory Racca, fishing aboard Badonkadonk, a Viking 82, captured the biggest tuna of the week, a hefty 177 pound yellowfin. At the conclusion of the Blue Marlin Grand Championship, Done Deal did it again. Coming off one of the most successful campaigns in big-game fishing, the Viking 56 was declared the 2013 Gulf Coast Triple Crown Champion for the second year in a row. Owner Jon Gonsoulin, Captain Jason Buck, mates Lance Hightower and Travis Dorland and anglers Trevor Lott, Billy Cemac, Mike LaSalle and David Lebouf caught a 445.2 pound blue marlin and a 76.6 pound yellowfin tuna during the Blue Marlin event. Even though those fish did not earn the team any qualifying points, participation in that tournament along with the other four qualifiers gave it enough bonus points to earn the top standing. The GCTCC was created to recognize the top sportfishing team on the highly-competitive Gulf of Mexico blue marlin circuit. The original concept was the brainchild of Sonny Middleton of Middleton Marine, a long-time advocate of sport fishing and boating in the Gulf.

Viking Beach Haven Heaven
On the final day of the 44th Annual White Marlin Invitational, hosted by the Beach Haven Marlin & Tuna Club, all eyes were on the tuna. Minutes before lines out on the last day, the Viking 60 Goin' In Deep, hooked a 203.6-pound big eye which snagged the biggest payday. They were trolling ballyhoo when the spread exploded with activity. "We had three bites all at once," Mike Ajamian said. Two of the tunas got away, but after a 36 minute fight, the crew put three gaffs in the brute and boated it. The crew of Larry Hesse Sr.'s Goin' In Deep included his son, Larry Hesse; first mate Spencer Bradley, Alex Patriarca, Anthony Scardino, Mike Ajamian and Mike Cassidy with Captain Walter Harmstead at the helm. Captain Brian Komer and his crew on the Viking 52, took the first day daily prize for its 46.1 pound yellowfin and the blue marlin points trophy. Anthracite, a Viking 50, won the most releases overall and also took home the white marlin points title.  

Viking Marlin Mania
Marlin season at the Jersey shore continued with the 46th Annual Yacht Club of Stone Harbor Invitational Marlin Tournament. Dave Anderson's Krazy Salt's, a Viking 70, took Second Place with a blue marlin and five whites. Krazy Salt's also won the dolphin division with a fish over 30 pounds. Captain Ryan Higgins was right on Krazy Salt's heels in Third Place. The Viking 70 hooked three white marlin and two blues, one estimated to be over 600 pounds released by angler Justin Healey. The crew boated a 155 pound big eye tuna which helped them win the Warren Buckingham Memorial Trophy for outstanding catch. Aboard the Viking 70, Lonni Rutt claimed Second Place Male Angler.  

Viking Overnight Success
The Viking 70 cleaned up at the 36th Annual Ocean City Marlin & Tuna Club's Overnight Billfish Tournament. Captain Ryan Higgins led his team to a Second Place Overall finish with a white marlin release and a whopper of a tuna. Angler Thomas Garmany weighed in a 232 pound big eye to take the tuna category. The boat also claimed Third Place in billfish releases.