June 17, 2015

New Model: Grandezza 40 Fly

The new Grandezza 40 Fly delivers spacious interior and exterior volumes, with an an intelligent layout combined with comfort and elegance. She is designed, even down to the smallest detail, with an intelligent laid saloon serving as a real entertainment center. Even a large family or a group of guests has plenty of room to relax and enjoy delicious dinners around the size-able dinette. By opening the wide triple sliding glass door the saloon and aft cockpit join into a huge entertaining area, offering all the enjoyment of open air boating. A second alfresco dining table is situated on the flybridge which, with extensive seating, large sunbed and optional wet-bar, is ideal for entertaining and sunbathing. The lower accommodation plan features the two cabins; full beam midships master cabin and a forward guest room, fully equipped L-shaped galley, and head with separate shower opposite to starboard. Power plans start from standard Volvo 300hp with optional 370hp units.
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.3 m (40.3ft)
Beam - 3.95 m
Draft - 1.1 m
Displacement - 9500 kg
Fuel Capacity - 920 l
Water Capacity - 275 l
Accommodation - 5 + 2 berths
Max Persons - 12
Engines - Volvo D4 300hp, D6 370hp, Mercruiser TDI 4.2 370hp
Propulsion - Volvo or Mercruiser dual propeller stern drive
Speed - 35 knots max, 31 knots fast cruise, 22 knots economic cruise
Certification - CE B

June 15, 2015

Project: Azimut 66 Magellano

In 2008, Azimut invented a new way of cruising with Magellano, the first "modern trawler". This extraordinary navigator features Dual Mode hulls, large interiors for extended stays, and a chic and timeless style that is yet again setting the trends in the nautical world. Magellano 66 completes the range, alongside the 43HT, 43 Fly, 53 and 76 models.  The first model will be available starting in the summer of 2015, but the design of the 66 Magellano started long ago. It is built on the same foundation that makes all Magellano collection yachts so special: the “Dual Mode” hull. The goal is to offer a versatile explorer yacht that provides a comfortable ride even in moderate to rough seas. Accomplishing this required developing keels that were profoundly different from those found on planing hulls. Magellano hulls soften the impact of waves, cutting through them with the vertical bow. At the same time, the significant forward volume minimizes pitch and provides constant buoyancy support, even when the boat is descending the trough of a wave. As a result, the water has a hard time reaching the main deck, providing a sense of security both to those piloting the vessel and their guests. The Magellano is a design that allows you to eat up the miles; the pleasure of cruising in its purest form, under the banner of Italian Design elegance.  The Magellano 66 takes this philosophy even further with surprisingly spacious interiors for its twenty meters length. The main deck is all on one level; it has a large sliding door facing out over the cockpit all the way to the bow where the pilot station and galley are located. The main deck features elegance, functionality and a breath-taking view of the horizon. Highlights include a large L-shaped sofa facing an impressive bar cabinet, up to 50’’ TV cabinet, and a dining table oriented across beam. All this comes with the standard version of the Magellano 66.  There is also a Navetta version. Positioning the internal stair amidship means the saloon/dining area can be separated from the piloting and forward galley area, for unprecedented privacy surpassing that of even bigger boats. The crew can carry out their jobs without having to access any of the boat owner and guest spaces. The door to the side walkway is from the galley, allowing the crew to reach their own cabin without crossing the saloon. At the same time, the boat owner and guests can access the saloon from their accommodations, without having to cross the galley and piloting station. The Navetta version also enjoys an expansive view out over the water, with sliding doors and panels that also facilitate mooring.  On the outside your eye is drawn to the integrated terrace to the extreme aft of the flybridge, a design detail that puts the Magellano 66 in the big leagues. The culmination of a spectacular open deck, the terrace can be outfitted for the perfect relaxation environment, complete with comfortable cushions, scenic lighting, and an awning to shade the living area. Just like the Magellano 53, at the bow of the 66 there is an additional lounge area, here even more welcoming and private.  The storage space for all on-board and free-time equipment is unparalleled. There are enormous storage spaces in the bow and on the flybridge.  On the lower deck, there is a large owner suite at full beam. Here, the spacious quarters are bathed in natural light for an elegant but also practical space with ample stowage. The owner has all the space they've always wanted with his and her spacious closet, chest of drawers, vanity, and an additional huge storage area under the bed.  The closets in the VIP and guest cabins receive the same attention. Both cabins offer something extra because, as everyone says, there is never enough space on board. The fourth cabin is designed as a utility room but, upon request, can be outfitted as a cabin with bunk beds. The washer and dryer are conveniently located along the corridor. With two Volvo 800hp diesel engines, Magellano's performance is perfectly in line with the philosophy of a modern Long Range yacht. Travelling at 9 knots in full displacement mode, it has a range of over nine hundred nautical miles, this including reserve. The double chine Dual Mode hull provides a purposeful shape that optimizes cruising both in displacement and planing modes, for a cruising speed of 16 to 18 knots and a maximum speed of 22.

June 13, 2015

New Model: Riva 88 Florida

If history is a remark, the original wooden Riva Florida spurred a glorious moment for the today Italian status symbol boat builder and sold in its time between 1952 to 69 over one thousand units.  This new Riva 88 Florida which continues the over two decades long Mauro Micheli design efforts is a totally different boat, from size to construction materials. But yet again the new 88 Florida spurs imagination forward, something also the small runabout did.  It is in simple terms a genius effort to change a hard top yacht into a fully open one in some seconds, thanks to the Ferretti Group patent called the Convertible Top. This system alone changes what kind of customer the 88 Florida attracts, and in simple terms feels to be a more juvenile yet in its own right already looking a classic super sport yacht.  At this moment a big question comes to mind, and it will be interesting to see if Ferretti Group will keep this patent Riva only, or try to use it on the other brands.
Technical Data:
LOA - 26.84 m (88ft)
Hull Length - 23.9 m
Waterline Length - 21.4 m
Beam - 6.22 m
Draft - 1.79 m
Displacement - 60,000 kg unloaded, 72,000 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 7500 l
Water Capacity - 900 l
Accommodation - 8 guests in 4 cabins, 2/4 crew in 2 cabins
Max Persons - 20
Engines - 2 x MTU 16V 2000M93 2435hp, 16V 2000M94 2638hp
Propulsion - Vee drive with line shaft
Speed - 40 knots max, 35 cruise with MTU 2683hp or 38 knots max with 2435hp
Range - 340 nautical miles at cruise
Project - Mauro Micheli Officina Italiana Design, Ferretti Group Engineering Department

June 11, 2015

Project: Palm Beach PB42 Express


The Palm Beach 42 takes the honor of being the smallest model in the distinguished Australian builder line. The compact and efficient 42 shares same build features as every Palm Beach, including the latest technology that ensures the strongest yet lightest-weight hulls in the industry. Her semi-displacement bottom and low center of gravity will provide owners with a sure and stable ride, with projected speeds up to 36 knots. Three different interior layouts are available for the Palm Beach 42, which range from a single to two cabin versions and galley up or down solutions.  Power will come from standard Volvo 300hp engines with IPS dual propeller forward looking pod drives.

June 9, 2015

New Model: Jeanneau 37 F Velasco

Although slightly more compact to its bigger sisters, reinforcing a sense of intimacy and well-being, the new Tony Castro designed Jeanneau 37 F Velasco is just as elegant. Inside, every detail has been designed to increase window area, for a bright living space with magnificent all around views. Exterior communications abound from a side door, recessed side decks, an open cockpit sheltered by the extended flybridge, double doors and a large bathing platform aft. True to the original concept, the flybridge offers three incomparable living spaces.  Down below, the Jeanneau 37 F Velasco has a very spacious owner's cabin and an attractively proportioned double cabin. The head compartment includes a separate shower stall.  Power is provided by twin Volvo 300hp with reliable time tested shaft drive system.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.43 m (37.5ft)
Hull Length - 9.98 m
Beam - 3.84 m
Draft - 0.83 m
Displacement - 8271 kg light
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 400 l
Water Capacity - 330 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins plus 2 addition berths
Max Persons - 10
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 300hp
Propulsion - line shafts
Project - Tony Castro
Certification - CE B-10, C-12

June 5, 2015

New Model: Overmarine Mangusta 132

The Overmarine Group is proud to announce the launch of the first unit of the brand new Mangusta 132 model, which took place on 12th May 2015 at the Group’s private wharf in Viareggio. The yacht will be presented as a world premiere at the Monaco Yacht Show from 22 to 25 September.  Over the past few years, the Group has implemented a strategic development plan to expand and renew its range, focusing on growth and greater efficiency, that is maintaining a high performance and excellent on-board comfort whilst at the same time ensuring increasingly lower consumption. The 132 is the fourth new Mangusta model to be introduced onto the market over the past two years, after 94, 110 and 165 E.  This yacht clearly highlights the recent technical and style evolution of Mangusta yachts. Her external lines are distinctive Mangusta, racy and sporty, with the new aesthetic and structural features that are being added to recent models. These include new glazing on the main deck, a single piece of glass at the height of the salon which offers excellent visibility from the inside allowing copious amounts of natural light to enter; the new, more aggressive, more modern line of the flybridge with its aesthetic grating, and the amazingly generous size of the sundeck, which can be used as a private area for the owners and also be fitted out with a second helm station.  Along with the external design, the yacht also features a technical evolution: a new hull to which all the hydrodynamic improvements on Mangusta 165 have been transferred; new engines; water-jets propulsion system, and Zero Speed gyroscopic stabilizers both at anchor and underway, all of which contribute to further improving on-board comfort and extending the range of uses of this yacht. Indeed, it is now possible to sail at a low speed at reduced consumption whilst enjoying comfort at all times. This hull number one of the Mangusta 132 has been created to the wishes and requirements of her owner who, this being his second Mangusta yacht, knew exactly how to use the potential of this model to the very best.  She features spectacular on-board volumes and the layout of the various different areas is the result of a careful architectural study which aimed at a top performance, understood as quality, excellence and well being on-board even at high speeds. As with all Mangusta yachts, the Group’s Interiors Design Department knew exactly what to offer the Owner in terms of interior layouts, style and personalized decor solutions, fully-satisfying his desires and tastes. In this case, the Owner chose a four cabin layout with an extra salon on the lower deck. The standard is 5 cabins.
Technical Data:
LOA - 39.8 m (130.7ft)
Beam - 7.76 m
Draft - 1.7 m
Displacement - 165 t half load
Fuel Capacity - 20000 l
Water Capacity - 3000 l
Accommodation - 10 guest berths in 5 cabins, optional 8 berths in 4 cabins, 6 crew berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 3 x MTU 16v2000 M94L 2600hp 
Propulsion - 2 x Kamewa 63G4 Waterjets, 1 x 63B4 waterjet (central)
Speed - 34 knots max, 32 knots cruise
Range - 550 nm at 32 knots cruise
Project - Stefano Righini exterior

June 4, 2015

Project: Numarine 60 Hardtop

Numarine from Turkey has been a very active builder in recent months, updating and presenting new models to expand its range. The 60 Hardtop project is based on the lines of the Flybridge model of the same size, which with a project presented in Dusseldorf and a first launch scheduled for mid to late 2015 sold three units on plan.  Minus the flybridge the 60 Hardtop is not much different from its sister, in few words it is the same, though the renderings so far make it look so much an other yacht outside. You get the same three double cabins layout below all served with personal heads. This includes a full beam owners cabin, and a two berth crew or surprise guests cabin aft. To continue the main deck layout is also the same this offering a central galley, L-shaped dinette, and C-shape sofa. Power for the Numarine 60 Hardtop will come from twin Volvo 725hp as standard or optional 900hp units with propulsion delivered by IPS pod drives.

June 2, 2015

New Model: Cranchi 43 Eco Trawler LD

Cranchi as always very attentive to the market continues to expand its new Trawler range with the addition of a smaller model to compliment the success of the 53, the new 43 Eco Trawler LD, the last two letters standing for Long Distance.  The 43 Eco Trawler apart offering a semi planning hull sees Cranchi offer various options to the buyer for the lower deck arrangement with three different options available; which go from two large cabins this including a large full beam midships owners room, three double cabins, and a twin cabins plus utility room to port side option.  The galley as is the living in all layouts is located on the main deck.  The flybridge of the 43 Eco Trawler also surprises for its huge dimensions, with a helm located to port side with wet-bar behind it, and a C-shaped settee plus sun pad to starboard.  Power options for the new Cranchi 43 start from Volvo 260hp and go up to 300 and 330hp optional units.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.8 m (45.3ft)
Hull Length - 11.99 m
Beam - 4.37 m
Draft - 0.9 m
Displacement - 12,000 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 1450 l
Water Capacity - 540 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins, or 6 berths in 3 cabins
Max Persons - 12
Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 260hp, D4 300hp, D6 330hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives

June 1, 2015

blogger - Down Under Evolution

The Aussie builders have been enjoying a nice expansion in recent years thanks to a friendly boating environment and political back up. The Australian boating community is similar to a certain extent to the US where people enjoy grouping up in boating activities, usually organized by the builders or the dealers.  Something which in Europe is still not very popular where everyone has a habit of doing his own thing.
Riviera and Maritimo the two main builders have become a symbol of the Australian boating lifestyle which is an interesting mix of all year round usability and luxury.  In reality this design theme tells a story of the boating lifestyle of the typical Australian boater, which wants to be able to use his boat all year round.  Again a bit of a contradiction to what most European boaters think of there boats, which is for the most part scheduled for the Summer season. Interesting is that this design is also appreciated in the North American continent and this has given an always increasing support to the Australian builders in the largest global boating market. To say it in poor words most Australian cruisers and yachts do look to be SUVs of the sea for there all around practicality.  
In all this one can see an evolution started by Riviera and Maritimo at the turn of the century where American sport fishing inspired designs started to be added with further creature comforts and evolving into a hybrid type cruisers and yachts.  The current designs and if one looks at models from 2005 till today, an interesting evolution curve largely inspired by European creature comforts but without forgetting where it all started can be seen. It is an interesting design theme, that if viewed from European eyes may look as a gamble but if looked from Aussie eyes was a safe bet.

May 31, 2015

Monthly News - May 2015

- pic of the month- Horizon Best Asian Builder


Azimut Benetti Sea Jewels Alongside Etro and Damiani

The Azimut-Benetti Group will take part in a Montenapoleone Yacht Club initiative sponsored by the Milan Associazione Montenapoleone in collaboration with Audi. Benetti and Azimut Yachts brands will be on display at Etro and Damiani respectively with reproductions and photographs of the most prestigious models. It is an exclusive event involving some of the biggest names in luxury design. The one of a kind event starts on 25 May in Milan in conjunction with EXPO 2015. For the very first time, some of the most important national and international shipyards and yacht clubs will be on display in Milan's "Quadrilatero della Moda”, a partnership under the banner of unparalleled product and service excellence. Paired with big names in fashion and jewellery that are members of the Associazione Montenapoleone, the participating shipyards will have their most prestigious models sharing centre stage with the creations of the hosting boutiques. It is an event that Azimut-Benetti the world's largest yacht and megayacht builder could not possibly miss with its two brands: Benetti and Azimut Yachts. Benetti's luxurious megayachts are on display alongside the imaginative and sophisticated collection of fabrics, clothes, and accessories at Etro. The wide range of Azimut Yachts can be found among the precious jewels at Damiani, an Italian jewellery icon. The event is the brainchild of Guglielmo Miani, President of the Associazione Montenapoleone. He identified a natural synergy between the nautical world and that of jewellery and fashion, especially among the leading companies of the different sectors, with the ultimate goal of celebrating Italian excellence. 

Azimut-Benetti Group Double Triumph

The Azimut-Benetti Group has received more new major awards, rewarding its efforts to consolidate its leadership position on the Asian market, owed entirely to the experience gained in over 30 years of continuous presence in the territory. Both brands of the Italian leading manufacturer of luxury yachts obtained significant recognition on the occasion of the 11th Asia Boating Awards organized by Blu Inc., publisher of the magazines "Asia Pacific Boating" and "China Boating" and serves as an important point of reference for the industry in the Asia Pacific area. The top prize in the “Best Worldwide Production Motor Yacht (25m and above)” was awarded to Azimut Grande 95 RPH by Azimut Yachts, while the splendid Benetti "Illusion V" ranked first in the category "Best Yacht Design". The 11th Asia Boating Awards were presented on May 1st 2015, during a luxurious gala at Hong Kong Gold Coast Hotel on the opening night of the Hong Kong Gold Coast Boat Show May 1-3. The prestigious Asia Boating Awards were presented in 21 categories, showcasing Asian builders and international brands, as well as Asian regattas and marinas. The region, especially Hong Kong and Singapore, is continuing to grow as a major market for yachts, superyachts and related products/services such as marinas and service centres. 

Azimut Yachts Contest Design Award

The first edition of the Azimut Yachts Contest Design Award: IED interior design studion Francesco Russolillo is awarded a six month internship at the company. Azimut Yachts has launched a new initiative to identify and engage young talent from different design environments. For the first edition of the competition, the participants; students from Italian and international universities and design schools were asked to design the spaces and furnishings of an Azimut 70 fly.

Azimut Honk Kong is Launched

Azimut Yachts today announces a new partnership strategy, building upon its 28 year success story in the Asian market. The past year has seen Azimut launch Azimut Yachts Indonesia and Azimut Yachts Thailand expanding the brand’s presence in the South East Asia market. In line with this worldwide philosophy, which has strengthened its success throughout the world, Azimut Benetti Group is very pleased to announce the launch of Azimut Yachts Hong Kong in partnership with Mr. Thomas Woo. The decision to invest in local partner has been taken in order to reaffirm Azimut Yachts leadership in Asia. With the opening of Azimut Yachts Sales and Service Offices with a partner fully committed and focused on Azimut Yachts only, the Italian shipyard will provide all-around assistance from the purchase of a yacht to a dedicated after sales services. The Azimut Yachts Hong Kong will replace the exisiting partnership with Simpson Marine in the area. For the past 28 years Simpson Marine has been the exclusive dealer for much of Asia for Azimut Yachts - a partnership that has seen both companies grow and prosper. The two companies have now mutually agreed to part ways due to changing business strategies. Azimut Yachts is focused on a new single-brand partnership strategy while Simpson Marine is committed to growing as a multi-brand dealer.


CRN Wins World Superyacht Award

CRN, the ship builder specializing in the construction of 50 to 90 metre steel and aluminum pleasure vessels, received another international recognition, for one of its latest megayachts, at the World Superyacht Awards in Amsterdam, the prestigious event organised by the editorial group Boat International Media. During the exclusive gala evening, held at the iconic Renaissance-style Westergasfbariek industrial complex, situated in an impressive park near Amsterdam, M/Y CRN Saramour 61m was assigned the highly sought-after ‘Judges Commendation’, reserved for displacement motor yachts having a gross tonnage between 500 and 1,300 GT. The award was collected by Luca Boldrini, CRN’s Sales & Marketing Director, together with Roberta Sabatini, CRN’s Image & Communication Manager, and Architect Francesco Paszkowski,who designed the exteriors and the internal fit-out, in front of an audience of ship owners and first-class representatives of the world’s megayacht industry. After their victory last year with 80m flagship ‘Chopi Chopi’, the Ancona shipyard is for the second year running the winners of the special award assigned to megayachts that have stood out at an international level for their interior and exterior designs. Saramour conquered the votes of the expert panel thanks to an aesthetical language focused on achieving an overall unity of shapes, as conceived by Francesco Paszkowski Design in cooperation with CRN - a design solution chosen to set off the precious art collection that adorns the yacht, transforming her into a true and proper floating ‘art gallery’.

CRN Made to Measure

When World class tailoring meets the mastery of naval art. From the flawlessly balanced union of two apparently far, and yet complementary worlds, sharing the constant search for perfection in every detail, 'Made to Measure' comes to life. Larusmiani and CRN, two ambassadors of true Made in Italy products, are going to introduce the world to Italian excellence during a one-of-a-kind event. From 25 to 31 May, during the Montenapoleone Yacht Club, an event held at the Concept Boutique Larusmiani, ‘Made to Measure’ will be born – a sensory journey into the values of Italian craftsmanship. The identity of every single custom-made garment created by Larusmiani and that of the megayachts designed and built by CRN will be revealed by their distinctive traits: the accurate selection of materials; uncompromised quality; and a painstaking care for details. Inside the Concept Boutique guests will have the opportunity to take a close look at the perfection of meticulous miniature replicas of some superyachts and a series of sketches on display in the Bespoke Area, thereby plunging into the magical atmosphere of a cruise onboard these jewels of the sea. On 28 May, highly selected guests will set off towards faraway lands – a unique journey that will be even more extraordinary thanks to the unique opportunity to taste Plymouth, a gin so special that it can even boast an agreement with the British Royal Navy.

CRN First Refit

CRN, the shipyard specializing in the construction of steel and aluminium pleasure vessels between 50 and 90 meters in length, held a private ceremony this morning to launch the refit of a 46-metre vessel. The yacht designed by CRN’s Engineering Department, in cooperation with the international design firm Nuvolari Lenard, which pencilled her outer lines develops over 4 decks and can accommodate up to 12 guests in her master stateroom and 5 VIP cabins. Sobriety and style, streamlined and elegant lines, airy spaces and very refined interiors: these are the main distinctive features of this yacht, which stands out for her stylish dark blue hull and her contemporary, sophisticated décor - a fil rouge that runs through the different onboard areas and rooms. The ‘Eight’ is equipped with two 3512 B KW Caterpillar engines that push her to a maximum speed of 16 knots and a cruising speed of 15 knots.

Ferretti Custom Line Adriatic Boat of the Year 2015

Navetta 28 continues its international success with a prestigious Award. The maxi-yacht of the semi-displacement Custom Line won the Adriatic Boat of the Year 2015 award in the Motor Yacht over 51 feet category. The prize was conferred during the 20th edition of Internautica, one of the most renowned European boat shows, held in Marina di Portoroz, Slovenia. Navetta 28, “sister” of Navetta 33 Crescendo, debuted last September at the “Cannes Yachting Festival 2014” and immediately earned unanimous acclaim from both media and the public, leading to the launch in recent weeks of the second unit, entirely customized by its Owner. The Adriatic Boat of the Year 2015 awards ceremony brought another big success for the whole Ferretti Group that earned 2nd place in the same category with the Pershing 70. The dual accomplishment certifies the absolute excellence of all the Group’s brands over 50 feet in length.


Gulf Craft Majesty Awarded Best Asian Build Yacht

The recently launched Majesty 122, built by one of the world’s leading superyacht shipyards, Gulf Craft, showed an early start to success after winning the prestigious Best Asian Built Yacht award, demonstrating the shipbuilder’s commitment to delivering world-class craft. The Asia Boating Awards recognize global and regional yachting brands that have consistently demonstrated outstanding achievement in Asia throughout the year. After meticulous evaluation by a panel of experts in the leisure boating industry, the Best Asian Built Yacht Award goes to the yacht that demonstrates outstanding build quality and that was manufactured in a shipyard located in Asia. Gulf Craft’s achievement follows recent success at the Singapore Yacht Show, where the shipbuilder received an overwhelmingly positive response for the brilliant display of its craft, including the Majesty 105, the largest superyacht Gulf Craft has ever brought to South East Asia, and the oceangoing Nomad 65, engineered for those with an appetite for long-range sea travel as well as the Majesty 48, the full option fly-bridge yacht.


Hatteras Shootout Production vs Custom

Over Memorial Day Weekend, Hatteras Yachts was ably represented by two boats proven to raise fish; the GT54 Stop the Press and the GT63 CU+ Leader. In The Shootout: Custom vs. Production at Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina in the Bahamas. Team Hatteras saw plenty of fishing action during the three-day event, with blue marlin, white marlin, wahoo and other species on the run in the Abacos' spectacular aquamarine waters. Hatteras Yachts was proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of this highly successful inaugural tournament, which put 27 competitive production and custom boats head to head in battle in some of the most fertile fishing grounds in the world - capped off by awesome parties.

Hatteras Increases Global Reach

Hatteras Yachts is pleased to announce that Yasuda Shipyard, Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan and Tatari Yachts, S.A., Istanbul, Turkey, will become leading partners, representing Hatteras throughout Japan and Turkey, respectively. The addition of these dealers to Hatteras’ network strengthens its presence in these key markets and continues to increase its global distribution footprint. 


Heesen Yachts Expands Sales Team

Heesen Yachts is delighted to announce that Johan Kaasjager has joined the sales team in the role of Sales Manager. Johan together with Robert Drontmann will work in Mark Cavendish’s team to support company growth. Johan, who brings more than 10 years of combined sales and technical experience to Heesen Yachts, has previously held senior sales position in the superyacht industry. In his new role Johan will offer brokers and the Heesen network of agents full support to increase sales and promote Heesen’s Dutch heritage and fine craftsmanship.


Horizon Receives Tenth Consecutive Best Asian Builder Award

Horizon Yachts is pleased to announce it recently received its tenth consecutive “Best Asian Yacht Builder Award (25m and +) at the 2015 Asia Boating Awards, held May 1st at the Hong Kong Gold Coast Hotel. CEO John Lu was also recognized as the “Personality of the Year” during the event. Founded in 2005, the Asia Boating Awards is hosted by two famous yacht magazines, Asia Pacific Boating and China Boating. The “Best Asian Yacht Builder Award” recognizes shipyards and their outstanding achievements within the Asia yachting industry through awards such as “Best Marina,” “Best Yacht Club,” and “Best Regatta”. This prestigious event celebrated its 11th year this year, and Horizon Yachts’ win of “Best Asian Yacht Builder” for the 10th consecutive year is an unparalleled record within the Asian yachting industry.


Kadey-Krogen Expands to Rhode Island

Today’s generation of Kadey-Krogen trawler yachts results from a 38-year heritage of innovation and more than 600 yachts built. To further propel that tradition in 2015 and beyond, the company has expanded and planted roots this month in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Headquartered in Stuart, Florida with additional offices in Annapolis, Maryland and Seattle, Washington, Kadey-Krogen Yachts partner and vice president of sales Tucker West leads the company’s expansion into New England. A Rhode Island native, West grew up on and around the waters of Portsmouth and throughout high school and college worked in Newport Harbor running launches. He entered the marine industry after graduating from Plymouth State College in New Hampshire with a degree in business management. His primary focus throughout the last 20 years has been in yacht sales, marketing, and after-sales service for marine businesses around the world. For Kadey-Krogen Yachts, West manages sales and contributes to product development.


Numarine New Sales and Marketing Director

Antonio Caviglia is the latest addition to the International Numarine Team. He will be based in Italy with the assignment to increase the size and reach of Numarine’s dealer network, accelerate sale and enhance the brand awareness of Numarine internationally. Caviglia is a seasoned yacht sales and marketing executive with experience in the international marine retail and automotive industries. Caviglia is fluent in Italian, English and French, and also speaks Russian well. Caviglia also holds a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace engineering from Cornell University in the USA and a Master in Business Administration from Cornell University. For the 1st thirteen years of his career, both in Italy and in the USA, Antonio Caviglia held roles of increasing responsibility in various functions from engineering to Sales to Operations to Business Development in Fiat Auto and Emerson Electric. Since 2004 Caviglia mixed his passion for yachting with his successful international curriculum, holding positions at the Brunswick Corporation, Sanlorenzo, Gruppo Baglietto, Vicem and OTAM. At Brunswick, with the important role of Director EMEA, Strategy & Business Development – Brunswick European Group, he was responsible for the Strategy & Business Development function of the EMEA Division of the biggest nautical company in the world, producer of boats and marine engines: main brands include Sea Ray, Hatteras, Sealine, Boston Whaler, Mercury and Mercruiser. Here Caviglia was responsible for mergers & acquisitions, development of new markets, new products, new product distribution, market study execution and marketing research. In Sanlorenzo he was Sales Director for the fiberglass yacht range from 62 feet to 108 feet. In Gruppo Baglietto he was Group Sales Manager, with sales responsibility for the historical brands Baglietto and Cantieri di Pisa, leaders in the worldwide segment of Super-yachts. As European Sales Manager, in Vicem Yacht he helped to establish the brand’s presence and increase sales in Europe. In his last assignment in OTAM as Sales & Marketing Director, he strengthened their distribution and brand image, resulting in improved sales and future opportunities.


Otam New Sales and Communications Manager

Otam with 60 years of success in power-boating has the pleasure to announce the appointment of Matteo Belardinelli as their new sales and communications manager. Born in 1978, Belardinelli worked for years in real estate before entering the nautical sector with the Ferretti Group's CRN. As sales manager from 2009 until 2015, Belardinelli was responsible for the American markets, broker relations and was the reference point between client and yard. Thanks to his ever increasing passion for the nautical luxury market, Matteo Belardinelli joins the Otam team as sales and communications manager. Belardinelli's nomination is part of a new phase in Otam's development of new market strategies, creating two entirely new production segments: the Chase Boat and the aluminum Full Custom 35 to 40 meter. They will be marketed alongside the 'traditional' range of Millennium powerboats, with seven models from 45' to 100'. With the 2014 success of the 58HT Crazy Too, the enormous potential and opportunity of the chase boat for mega-yacht segment became apparent. Interest in this niche is in constant growth, given the high performance and reliability that exemplify the high quality of Otam products. Otam finalized the contract for the construction of a 35 meter custom yacht at the end of 2014. This semi-displacement aluminum hull, spacious and versatile, was created for the ever more informed and demanding international market. The attention paid to OTAM clients, to the smallest details, an all consuming passion, an obligation never to compromise in quality: all these factors brought OTAM and their management the build of a 35 meter Full Custom and Full Aluminum with the clearest intent to enter another market segment, the 35 to 40 meter custom.

Princess Original Returns to Plymouth

The first model to ever be built by Princess Yachts International has arrived back in Plymouth to undergo a unique restoration project in celebration of the company's 50th Anniversary year. Project 31 was the initial success story behind the Princess brand (then known as Marine Projects (Plymouth) Ltd), with more than 150 boats produced and sold worldwide. Now Princess Yachts will be lovingly restoring an original Project 31 whilst giving her a touch of the "Princess" treatment. Following her arrival at Princess' superyacht facility South Yard, Project 31 will be fully refitted drawing on various departments within the business. Parts will be removed and sent across the factory to the carpentry and metal shops where they will be repaired and reconditioned. Over the years several modifications and upgrades have been made to the boat, so now a dedicated team of apprentices and retired employees will be utilising their skills and memories to refit and precisely restore her. The refit process will see the team overcome several hurdles as Princess craft from that era are unique, with no two boats exactly alike. A very different approach to how the brand develops products today. The Princess Design Studio will be creating a nostalgic interior concept that will pay tribute to Princess' 1965 original launch specification. Key features will be carefully restored to ensure the boat stays true to these origins, however, a clever modern twist will be implemented using modern materials and detail-oriented craftsmanship will adorn the living space, providing a new level of luxury in a boat that is almost 50 years old.


Riviera Secures Two Major Categories

Australia’s revered builder of luxury motor yachts, Riviera, has secured two major categories at the Australian Marine Industry Export and Superyacht Awards, announced last night. Based at Coomera on Australia’s Gold Coast, Riviera was named Best Large Marine Industry Export Performer and Australian Marine Industry Exporter of the Year, reflecting 100 per cent growth in export production revenue and a 72 per cent increase in the number of boats exported for 2014. Riviera owner and chairman Rodney Longhurst said the awards were testament to innovation, dedication and to the hallmark passion for perfection that underpins a growing affection for the iconic luxury marque among boating aficionados worldwide. Riviera’s truly unique festival of fun and learning was created to hone the skills of luxury motor yacht owners and give them the confidence to use their boats to their full potential – and this premium level of commitment to customer care is another key element of Riviera’s international success. Mr Longhurst said that, in 2014, Riviera expanded its global-scale events calendar and the experiential marketing in Australia and New Zealand is now mirrored in idyllic destinations right around the world, including the United States, South Africa, the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Riviera, in 2014, celebrated the successful premieres last year of the stylish and sophisticated new 6000 Sport Yacht and a new 515 SUV design, as well as the launch of the new Riviera flagship, the 77 Enclosed Flybridge. All three yachts have been extremely popular at boat shows around the world and all feature prominently in Riviera’s impressive international forward orders that now stretch into 2016.

Riviera R Factor Shines Brightly

It’s an oft-repeated phrase amongst members of the marque’s worldwide family of luxury yacht owners. It portrays perfectly the pride and the passion – the unparalleled cachet – that the Riviera family acknowledges as: The R Factor. Indeed, the growing affection for Australia’s most-awarded builder of luxury motor yachts cannot be understated – you could see it sparkle in the eyes of almost one thousand owners from around Australia and the world as they inspected Riviera’s largest-ever Australian on-water showcase of luxurious new models, and as they greeted fellow ‘family’ members at the Festival of Boating held last week on the Gold Coast. The beaming smiles – also worn by the 430-strong Riviera team and the excited R Marine dealers from around Australia and New Zealand – reflected far more than the fact everyone was enjoying four fantastic days of fun and learning. They were also a clear expression of just how proud they were of Riviera’s growing global success. But then there was also a genuine appreciation for the unique way Riviera values every member of the ‘family’, and the way the company goes above and beyond in every respect to help its owners achieve ‘the ultimate boating experience’. Just ask any of these owners at the Festival for they were all proud and willing ambassadors for the revered Riviera marque and all that it means to be part of the welcoming and rewarding Riviera ‘family’. Held at the world-class Riviera facility at Coomera – and right in the heart of the 2015 Gold Coast International Marine Expo – Riviera’s festival united owners for sensational, spectacular and exclusive social events, in addition to a vast array of free educational seminars and workshops designed to fine tune their knowledge of their yachts and onboard systems. Many of those in attendance were already experienced boaters, and many were also long-term Riviera owners making sure the newer family members felt welcome and relaxed. Some came just for the social events, and some came to see the latest in design and innovation at the marque’s largest-ever Australian on-water display. All came to experience the very special R Factor. Melbourne-based Riviera 43 Open Flybridge owner Phil Ridgeway and his wife Victoria said it was great to be able to speak with the Volvo and Raymarine representatives at the Expo. Sydney’s Karin Adcock, who with partner John Winstanley own a Riviera 5000 Sport Yacht – said the Offshore Seamanship with Captain Bob Jones was particularly interesting with some very useful tips, while the Dock of the Bay cocktail evening was ‘spectacular’. These comments were echoed by Brisbane’s Robyn Duffield who enjoyed the Fragrance Masterclass with several friends on the Festival Friday while her husband Alastair brushed up on his nautical knowledge at the new educational events. Together they own a Riviera 42 Open Flybridge. This year, in addition to Riviera VIP car-parking right at the Expo gates, Riviera owners were granted exclusive access to a Festival Hub – that was it right past the four fine Ferraris (which they could test-drive), through the private entrance door emblazoned with a giant red Riviera-style love-heart, and into the luxuriously appointed Owners Courtyard where they could relax, enjoy a coffee and catch up with the rest of the ‘family’ ahead of their next Riviera social event or educational seminar, of which there were over 70 on the action-packed program. Down on the waterfront, owners could also celebrate the success of their new luxury yacht purchase with exclusive access to the at the Riviera Motor Yacht Club restaurant and bar, or even toast the rise and rise of Riviera on the world stage overlooking the massive Expo and especially the stunning $22.5 million red-carpet, on-water showcase of the latest in design, luxury and innovation from Riviera. By the end of the Expo, 12 new Riviera yachts had been sold, including one order for the new 67 Sports Motor Yacht announced just days prior and designed for those aspiring for long-range cruising in luxury. Then, of course, there are still many more (both existing and new) Riviera owners eager to take the helm and sea-trial the impressive range of new models in coming weeks. And then there was one more very special reason to celebrate: Riviera just days prior received two of the highest accolades at the Australian Marine Export and Superyacht Awards, securing both the 2015 Best Export Performance (large exporter), and the 2015 Australian Marine Industry Exporter of the Year. The awards reflect both a 100 per cent increase in yachts bound for international ports and the growing number of Riviera owners throughout the Americas, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Europe, South Africa and the Middle East. And celebrate in style they did – in true Riviera style –throughout the entire four-day festival, and also at three separate and unique social events. Fragrance Masterclass: The ladies enjoyed the Fragrance Masterclass & Luncheon on the Friday of the Festival, delving into the world of perfume perfection and learning about fragrance families whilst enjoying French champagne and cosmopolitan cuisine, and even preparing their own special scent to take home as a personal gift from Riviera. Dock of the Bay: Over 400 owners and guests enjoyed sumptuous seafood fresh from the trawler and soothing sounds at the red-carpet Dock of the Bay cocktail and marina party on Friday evening, surrounded by Riviera’s stunning $22.5 million showcase of luxurious motor yachts. The R Factor: Riviera’s Saturday night gala dinner and show is always highly anticipated – and this year was certainly a spectacular surprise as guests stepped from the factory concourse into a giant ballroom, finely decorated and with a 60-metres long stage where some of the strongest voices in Australia battled it out for supremacy before joining together and raising the roof and the spirits with a sensational finale. Riviera owner and chairman Rodney Longhurst said he was incredibly proud of the team at Coomera, the entire Festival program and of the latest new model releases. The 2016 Festival of Boating will be held from May 19-22, and will again align with the Gold Coast International Marine Expo.


Sanlorenzo Signs Asia Distribution Agreement

Sanlorenzo is proud to announce the signing of a new dealership agreement with Simpson Marine, Asia’s leading yacht sales and Brokerage Company. Simpson Marine will become the exclusive Asian dealer for Sanlorenzo shipyard. This strategic agreement addresses the growing demand for Sanlorenzo’s made-to-measure motor yachts in the Asia and Pacific regions. Simpson Marine was established in Hong Kong in 1984 by Mike Simpson as a yacht sales and charter company. The company is widely regarded as playing a pioneering role in the development of the yachting industry in Asia. By the late 1980’s, Simpson Marine had become a key distributor for several leading European and Asian yacht brands, recruiting an extensive team of sales and after sales service professionals within the regional market. Today the company employs over 100 professionals in the industry and continues to operate a prestigious sales and service network spanning sixteen locations in seven countries (China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand).


Sea Ray Supports National Sage Boating Week

Sea Ray officials are joining boating safety advocates during National Safe Boating Week, from May 16-22, to promote safe and responsible boating, including consistently wearing a life jacket every time a boater is on the water, using products and services that promote safe boating, and seeking proper training to educate and inform boaters. Sea Ray also will join with Mercury Marine engines and parts and accessories as well as a dozen other Brunswick boat brands in featuring a sweepstakes on social media. The contest prize is a safety kit featuring Attwood’s bailer safety kit, multi-function LED sport light, first aid kit, telescoping emergency paddle and 40-liter­­­ dry bag along with two, Mustang personal flotation devices and a Mercury Marine emergency-shutoff lanyard. Each of Brunswick’s 13 marine brands participating in this initiative will conduct a social media sweepstakes contest, and each will offer a safety kit. The contest is open to all U.S. consumers, with the exception of Brunswick employees and their immediate family, who are ineligible to win. Contestants can enter once a day for the life of the contest, with 13 winners – one for each brand -- being selected at random on May 26 from the pool of all eligible entries at each brand. Prizes will be shipped within 15 days of the announcement of the winners. National Safe Boating Week is the launch of the 2015 North American Safe Boating Campaign. This yearlong campaign promotes safe and responsible boating and the value of voluntary, consistent life jacket wear by recreational boaters through the campaign’s national theme, Wear It!


Sunseeker Agrees New Preferred Supplier for Logistics

Sunseeker International is pleased to announce that PSP Logistics and Sevenstar Yacht Transport have been selected as preferred suppliers for the shipment of its luxury performance yachts to their end destinations around the world. Around 150 boats every year ranging from 40-155 feet are shipped from Sunseeker’s manufacturing base in Poole to destinations all over the globe, serving the company’s 60-strong dealership network. This new preferred supplier agreement will provide significant cost benefits and improved efficiencies for Sunseeker and its network of Distributors, enhancing the service provided for customers and strengthening its position as the number one global brand for luxury performance motor yachts. PSP transports boats of all sizes to anywhere in the world and provides a tailor made service to Sunseeker owners. Sevenstar Yacht Transport offers a global network of destinations with its own fleet of over 120 independent Dutch flagged geared ocean carriers to match the needs of the Sunseeker experience. This provides Sunseeker a combination of two of the world’s leading yacht shipping specialists.


Viking and Healey Foundation

I'm pleased to share a few updates from the Healey International Relief Foundation with you. The HIRF Annual Awards Reception in Washington, DC, this past April was successful, informative and entertaining. Both event organizers, HIRF and Capital Reach, conduct humanitarian work in Sierra Leone. The ongoing Ebola crisis has made the work of these groups more urgent and all funds raised from the event will go toward HIRF's project to rebuild health clinics in Sierra Leone, as well as Capital Reach's effort to build a much-needed school in Lunsar, Sierra Leone. The reception hosted by Taylor Kinzler featured presentations by HIRF President Robert T. Healey, Jr., and Capital Reach Executive Director Kadir Mohammed, followed by the awards ceremony of our honorees Senator Tom Harkin, Congressman Chris Smith and Mrs. Philomena Yumkella. The reception featured a silent auction of unique items brought from Sierra Leona, and a musical performance by Sierra Leone's singer Daddy Rhymes. Thank you to our honorees, event partners and everyone who attended. The pictures of the reception are now posted on the HIRF Facebook page and on the website. Two of our special guests at the Annual Awards Reception came all the way from Sierra Leone: HIRF In-Country Manager Ishmeal Alfred Charles, and Executive Director at Caritas Freetown and HIRF Advisory Board member Father Peter Konteh. Charles and Father Peter had a busy itinerary for their two week stay in the United States. Charles served as a panelist at his alma mater Fordham University's Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs. The panel discussion was about the current situation in West Africa as it continues to recover from the largest Ebola epidemic in history. Panelists discussed the successes and challenges of the ongoing humanitarian response in the region as well as opportunities for the future. HIRF Executive Director Ben Parra and Government Relations Officer Vicki Middleton attended the 2015 Spring Meetings of the World Bank and IMF in Washington, DC. The team attended several presentations including a forum on how faith organizations can help contribute to the goal to end poverty by 2030; a panel on private sector development; as well as a panel discussion on how to prevent future Ebola outbreaks by strengthening health systems. In addition to the spring meetings, they also attended an event organized by Sierra Leonean Empowerment Network called "Let's Talk Sierra Leone: Past, Present, Future."

Viking Winner Circle

Congratulations to all the boats that fished the Mike Schmidt's Winner's Circle Invitational at Old Bahama Bay Resort and Marina in West End Grand Bahama Island. Not only did the event raise over $150,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, The American Cancer Society and The Marine Industry Education Foundation but it also found a lot of Viking yachts on the leaderboard! The title of Grand Champion was awarded to Mike Viola's Viking 56 Pandamonium. Pandamonium had a cumulative weight total of 118.5 pounds of fish and also claimed the heaviest dolphin with a whopper at 47.1 pounds. Right on their heels was Dave Henderson's Viking 50 Fragrant Harbor with 95 pounds for a Second Place Overall finish and the Top Tuna with a 63.6 pound fish. Top Wahoo went to Chuck Schumacher fishing on the Viking 55 with a 50.4 pounder. Carlos Gavidia fishing on the Viking 70 SISU and Mike Hynes on the Viking 61 Predator both released their first billfish during the tournament amongst a fleet of 32 boats.

Viking Going Back To The Bank

Sporty seas kept most of the 61 boat fleet at the docks on Day One of the 38th Annual Shimano Port Hacking 100 in Sydney, Australia, held this past May. The Viking 54 Gale Force braved the weather and was rewarded with a very successful day. Michael Kirby fought a big blue marlin for over two hours to boat the biggest fish of the tournament. Michael, along with anglers Daniel Kirby, Stephen Pitchfork and Bob Danckert, claimed the Heaviest Marlin as well as Heaviest Blue Marlin of the tournament. 

Viking Building The Future

Viking co-founder Bill Healey took time to talk to some aspiring boat builders during the recent Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work program. Designed to be more than a career day, the program goes beyond the average practice of shadowing an adult. This eager group of Viking enthusiasts took a tour of the facility and learned about boat building as well as the many different aspects of running a company.


Wider Tam Sri Lim Kok Thay Visit

A few weeks ago Wider had the pleasure to welcome Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay to the shipyard. He visited and was pleased with the progress of the two superyachts currently under construction, Wider 150 and Wider 165. Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay became a majority partner in Wider and a member of the board of Directors in 2012.