Project: Blu Martin 13.90 Sea Top

Blu Martin shipyard, a Sea Engineering Group brand, is preparing to launch on the market, next summer 2016, an extensively revisited version of its bestselling Sea Top 13.90, a model particularly in vogue among the brand's enthusiasts. The newcomer retains the elegance and charm of the original model, while featuring a more modern style and greater attention to the comfort of guests on board. Increased live-ability for the external spaces, new windows and an innovative hard top makes the new Sea Top 13.90 lines even more streamlined and contemporary. Measuring 13.90 meters in length and over 4 meters in full beam, the new Sea Top 13.90 by Blu Martin includes two or three cabins, depending on the version, and can comfortably carry up to 12 people. The interior also comprises two bathrooms a spacious galley and dinette.  Turning to the external spaces, the bow sun pad will be even more spacious and functional, while a foldaway table in the outer cockpit will make for more comfortable use of the sofa, turning the area into a veritable lounge for ultimate relaxation on board. For the comfort of guests, the hard top has been modified to increase the opening surface. Moreover, the side windows have been expanded, so as to further improve ventilation and lighting.  In terms of design, the swim platform astern has been shortened by a few centimeters in the central part, so as to completely eliminate any spray-back, in addition to endowing it with a contemporary look. The portholes are more modern and rectangular in shape, and are dotted along a strip that runs along the entire side, considerably increasing the brightness of the interiors. The new design, inspired by the automotive industry, also encompasses the bridge, which accommodates all the instrumentation displays and improves ergonomics and steering comfort. Finally, the mooring equipment have been re positioned for greater ease of use while mooring.  Sea Top 13.9 retains the original model's characteristic and stylish hard top, allowing guests to use the large outdoor dinette in all weather conditions, as well as providing the necessary shelter from the wind when the boat picks up speed. With a cruising speed of 29 knots and a top speed of 31 knots, the yacht also registers the lowest fuel consumption levels for its category; 95 liters per hour at cruising speed with the standard Volvo Penta IPS 435hp engines. The high-performance hull has also remained unchanged, further ensuring low fuel consumption, a distinguishing characteristic of all boats in the range. The interior, two and three cabin layout, instead, has been revisited, as always with ample scope for customization, reflecting Blu Martin's construction and commercial philosophy.  Three engines are available: in addition to the twin Volvo 435hp with IPS pod drives, it is possible to install a twin 375hp also with IPS pod droves, or twin 400hp with stern drives.  The new Blu Martin 13.90 Sea Top will be completed by July 2016, and will be officially launch in France, at the opening of the boating season, during the September 2016 Cannes show.

www.blumartinyachts.com

blogger - The Old Masters

In the last year or so the nautical industry has lost important people who shaped its past decades since the eighties and the current present times.  Designers who made school, people who founded yards and managed them to huge successes.  And its not only this, other important personalities as they become older have also taken a more back seat in managing the activities they once did.

It will be interesting to see if the industry can create persons, as it did in the eighties and the nineties.  People to propel it to huge success.  The future was looking bright up until 2008, then after that the talent went into more rewarding industries, as the boat market fell from record highs to new lows.  If we look at history as a remark we are in a similar position the nautical World was in the seventies.  It is important to note a huge difference to that period and that was the transition from wood to fiberglass construction completing the full circle which started in the sixties. 

The inputs for bringing passionate people to the industry are also missing, offshore racing nowadays is nearly non existent.  Yes we have Class One and the Endurance series who race if you are lucky a couple races a year. Competing is very expensive and if you want to win your budget has to be well above the couple million mark. 

UIM how about a new intermediate class of 30-40 feet offshore powerboat with a set max budget?  

In the past offshore racing always brought talent, from important designers to technical people who went on to manage yards, and then the others which came in it for marketing purposes see Ferretti in the nineties, and Sunseeker in the eighties and the P1 more or less a decade ago. New people bring fresh ideas, propel the industry forward and that this is very missing nowadays.

Monthly News - April 2016

-pic of the month- Hatteras Super Yacht Sidekick

Azimut Atlantis Under the Spotlight in Asia

During the recent Singapore Yacht Show, surprisingly buoyant sales have confirmed just how highly enthusiasts rate the Italian brand owned by Azimut|Benetti Group, and its new models. This exceptional achievement is in part the result of ten Azimut 43 Atlantis orders placed during the last Singapore Yacht Show, confirming the success of one of the top models in the Azimut collections, which was presented to international markets just a few months ago.  These incredible market results follow on from another recent success, also featuring Azimut 43 Atlantis. Last April 7th, once again during the Singapore yacht show, the new model introduced by Azimut received the "Best Production Motor Yacht” up to 15 meters award on the occasion of the Asia Boating Awards organized by Blu Inc., publisher of the "Asia Pacific Boating" and "China Boating” magazines. “For us, this model’s commercial achievements and the award represent the successful conclusion of a highly satisfying Singapore Yacht show" said Enrico Chiaussa, Azimut Yachts Area Manager, APAC & MEA. “It is a recognition that reflects the real sentiment in a marketplace that appreciates our brand from every point of view. This success is due entirely to the experience we have gained working for over 30 years in this geographical area and to the efforts we have made to strengthen our network. Recently we started to set up a new dealership network based on local partnerships that are ! fully committed to and exclusively focused on Azimut Yachts, in order to give our customers the best possible service and yachting experience.”  “We are extremely proud,” continued Mr. Choppy Tan CEO of Azimut Yachts Singapore, “that our owners have chosen Azimut so enthusiastically and placed such great confidence in us. It is the result of our expertise and an approach to development that fully exploits synergy between projects. Azimut Yachts has a market leading presence in Asia, built over many years of work to establish solid relations and convey confidence to our clients, who clearly repay us by choosing our yachts.”


Baglietto End Relationship

Baglietto spa and Mr Maurizio Cozzani, in his role of Sales Consultant for the company, announce the consensual termination of their contractual relationship. Baglietto SpA wishes to thank MrCozzani for his competence and commitment and wish him all the best for his personal and professional successes.Baglietto informs that a reorganization process is undergoing and Sales Direction will be soon appointed in order to push the brand positioning on international markets.

Ferretti Group New Shareholder Entry

F Investments Sa., holding controlled by the Ferrari family, chose to become an investor of Ferretti International Holding S.p.A. together with Weichai Group by acquiring the 13.2% of the Company. The transaction value has not been endorsed. Mr. Piero Ferrari has been invited by Weichai Group to join the Board of Directors of Ferretti Group and will also continue to preside over the Product Development Committee that is responsible to direct the research, development and implementation of new products through all the Group’s brands. The fundamentals that helped to reach the brilliant results of 2015 were also the achievement of this Committee’s activity led by Mr. Ferrari. “The year of 2015 has rewarded us with economic and financial results over the expectations and the Group has relaunched itself regaining leadership on several markets” - underlined Mr. Galassi. “This achievement would not have been possible without the introduction of innovative and cutting edge products that are the results of significant investments in research & development and of the design and construction capabilities of Ferretti Group. For this reason, I would like to thank Weichai Group that was keen to invest and wise to await the necessary time this sector, free from a speculative approach, requires.” “Today Ferretti Group celebrates another important event” - continued Mr. Galassi. “The entry through F Investments S.A. of a great Italian businessman in the share capital, a nautical expert that already has an active part in the Group’s growth: Mr. Piero Ferrari. He chose to invest in Ferretti Group and to share a challenging business plan with our main shareholder and the management. Mr. Ferrari brings his great entrepreneurial skills by offering his capabilities of style and attention to detail and his international experience not only in the automotive industry, but also to one of the excellences in the nautical sector in Italy.”

Ferretti Group 2015 Results Exceed Expectations

Ferretti Group presented its higher than expected results as of the 31st of December, 2015 today in Milan. Moreover, the Group also announced the entry of F Investments S.A., a holding controlled by the Ferrari family, into the share capital of Ferretti International Holding S.p.A. by the acquisition of 13.2% of the share capital. During the press conference Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group presented the results of the financial year 2015. Nonetheless the persisting difficult market conditions, the consolidated production value has been 410 million euros (+23% compared to 334 million euros of 2014 and also higher than the Forecast at the beginning of 2015 that was established at 403 million euros). The EBITDA turned positive for the first time in the past four years and equals 7 million euros. This result is significantly better than the expectations as the forecast EBITDA was -1 million euro. This achievement means that the loss has been halved compared to that of 2014. The EBIT and loss are respectively -13 and -29 million euros. The CEO has also announced that the first quarter of 2016 will report profits of around 5 million euros. The FY 2015 performance led to a positive review of the 2016 outlook, thus production value by the end of 2016 is expected to transcend 550 million euros, while the EBITDA is foreseen to reach 50 million euros and the Group to be profitable. It was possible to exceed the objectives set by the development plan for 2015 thanks to the implementation of the relaunch, development and growth strategies presented a year ago by the Group, following the capital increase of 80 million euros of the main shareholder, Weichai Group. From this amount, 50 million euros were allocated to the design and launch of 27 new models and to the expansion of sales activity towards both mature and emerging markets. Mr. Galassi confirmed the success of the 6 Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing and Custom Line models presented in 2015 that have been the absolute growth drivers of the year. Furthermore, he announced the arrival of 9 new yachts of the length between 12 and 37 meters that will be ready to debut this year.

Ferretti Group Cheers for Sinan Regatta

Ferretti Group is continuing its active presence in Mainland China market in the new calendar year, now back to Sanya again for the famous SiNan Regatta in its fourth edition since 2013.  SiNan Regatta is the only professional sailing race event in China that has the nautical route to Xisha Islands and the furthest off-shore regatta event. With its standard, profession, influence, appeal, popularity and reputation being increasingly improved, SiNan Regatta is reputed to be a pretty sailing business card of both cities of Sanya and Sansha.  SiNan Regatta is also the only regatta in China attended by boat owners themselves, gathering hundreds of sail boats and motor yachts owners and social elites who are fond of yachting from all over the country.  In the racing course, a series of experience activities, banquets and parties related to the popularization of sailing culture and lifestyle are held in addition to the professional track race and long-distance rally, with a view to forging the most high-end social community for sailing elites.  Being the exclusive motor yacht partner, Ferretti Group will bring two of its best-selling yachts: Ferretti Yachts 650 and Ferretti Yachts 690 Hard Top, to accommodate invited VIP guests on board to enjoy the magnificent sailing fleets from no distance, and experience Ferretti Yachts’ comforts, power and performance along the attractive Yalong Bay coast.  SiNan Regatta is not only sailing racing, but a multi-platform entertainment lifestyle week for the boat owners and their friends. Apart from daily off-shore sail racing, guests can enjoy sail training, art show, cocktail, gala, Texas Hold’em Challenge and golf tournament every day from morning till mid-night.  Ferretti Group sponsors the week’s Ferretti-SiNan Cup VIP Golf Tournament at Yalong Bay Golf Club and Hotel.  Estimated 200 guests will join this 8-day tournament for the final top rankings.  The champion will win an exclusive Riva motor yacht scale model.

Hattereas Super Yacht Sidekick

The owner of the 147-foot expedition yacht Dorothea III built the Hatteras 45 Express Post One so he and his guests could fish all the hot spots that the superyacht visits on her epic voyages..Designed for targeting game-fish offshore, the quick and nimble Post One has accompanied the superyacht as a tow-behind tender since last year. “We took delivery of Post One in the latter part of the summer,” said Dorothea III’s captain, John Crupi. “Since then, we have towed it nearly 5,000 miles and we’ve put a little over 600 hours on it. We’ve gone to the Bahamas, to Colombia, through the Panama Canal, and to Costa Rica. We’ve been fishing about a week a month in the best places you can imagine.” He gave an example: “On March 18th, we were fishing Isla Jicaron on Panama’s Pacific Coast. At around 4 pm we raised and hooked a 550-pound blue marlin on 30-pound main line. The fish was fought till the early evening hours and released at 7 pm.” On its last fishing trip off the northern coast of Panama, Post One released 33 sails over three days and brought home a nice tuna for fresh sashimi onboard Dorothea III.

Sunreef Wins Best Power Multi Hull at Asia Boating Awards

Held during the Singapore Yacht Show, the twelfth edition of the Asia Pacific Boating Awards was a great success for the Sunreef Yachts shipyard. At the evening gala, the remarkable Sunreef 70 Power Blue Berry launched in 2015 was awarded as the Best Motor Multihull in the World. Boasting generous, custom-designed living spaces along with a lofty open saloon, this 70 Power can host up to ten guests in the luxury of her interiors including a front-placed master suite with a panoramic view. With her aft hydraulic platform, spacious flybridge and a large cockpit opening onto the saloon, she proudly represents the Sunreef 70 Power as a model known to combine the best of comfort, performance and offering oceanic range.

Sunseeker to Star in BBC Two

After 10 months of filming, Sunseeker International is pleased to announce that the exclusive BBC Two documentary ‘Britain’s Biggest Superyachts: Chasing Perfection’ will be airing this Friday 15th April at 9pm. The programme sees the BBC film crew follow the build of Sunseeker International’s new 131 Yacht through to its launch. For the first time ever, the film crew filmed fascinating behind the scenes footage to capture the journey of the new 131 superyachts from concept to build at the manufacturing facility in Poole, and then through to final delivery. The 131 Yacht enables its owner to tailor every element of the interior design and layout to their personal preferences via Sunseeker’s unique ‘Bespoke’ service, which is highlighted in the documentary.  As well as documenting the build in its Dorset shipyards, filming also took place during the boat shows in the latter half of 2015 and at the London Boat Show this year, with several people from Sunseeker’s world-class team appearing in the one hour program.


Viking 52 Years Ago

Fifty-two years ago today, brothers Bill and Bob Healey opened the doors to a small building with dirt floors that would eventually evolve into the world's leading manufacturer of semi-custom convertible sport-fishing yachts. Starting with wood, Viking built a fleet of 37-foot cruisers, which gained a reputation along the waterfront and served notice that this local South Jersey builder was in it for the long haul. The Healey brothers built the company with a captivating phrase to "Build a better boat every day" and the fleet soon expanded to include motor yachts to broaden its horizons in the growing marine marketplace.  By the early 1970s Viking had made a sea change to fiberglass and in 1972 launched the 40 Sedan Fisherman with a unique engine mounting system featuring structural steel web frame I beams, well-suited for diesel installations. The Viking 40/41 would remain in production in various configurations for 16 years and over 600 were built during this amazing run. The 1980s was a significant decade for Viking with ten boats added to the product line from 35 to 50 feet in convertible and motor yacht models. Viking was on a roll and every competitor knew it. The 1990s started slowly. A federal luxury tax in effect from 1991 to 1993 caused the marine industry to run hard aground as buyers abandoned the market. Viking buckled down, took on Washington with protests and demonstrations with Bob Healey in the lead, while Bill Healey and a skeleton crew kept the doors open and worked on new designs. By the time the tax was repealed the buyers returned and Viking was ready with new models. Business picked up but the game changer was the 1997 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show and the introduction of the 55 Convertible. This boat was the turning point for Viking with a host of custom boat features including increased bow flare, an unbroken sheer-line, frame-less salon windows, flush-mounted engine-room vents, a helm pod with single lever controls and a massive cockpit. It marked a new future for all Vikings that would follow as they would share many of these attributes. The roaring 2000s saw larger models like the 70 Convertible demonstrate that large convertibles were perfect tournament contenders and would lead their anglers to the Winner's Circle. At the 2014 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, a new flagship, the 92 Convertible premiered. In the same year Viking also returned to the motor yacht market with the launch of the 75 MY. In 2015, the Viking 80 launched to critical acclaim. As Viking enters into its 52nd year it continues to move forward and maintain the position as the world's leader in luxurious convertible sport-fishing yachts.

Project: Cantiere Delle Marche 102 Darwin

Cantiere delle Marche presents the project of the currently in build 102 Darwin, confirming its on-going success in this line of yachts. In the five years since being launched, the Darwin Class and the Nauta Air lines have pushed the shipbuilder into a dominant position, representing approximately 60% of the 80 to 110 feet steel and aluminum Explorer Yacht market.  The 102 Darwin Class, is due for delivery in 2017 to a European owner, with contract signed in the aftermath of the Cannes Boat Show.  While maintaining all of the features of the pure Darwin Class style, this 102 boasts a series of interesting customization, both with regards to function and design. One of the first requests of the made by the buyers was to include a fully-equipped fitness area so to keep up with their daily workout routines, even when they are at sea and far away from their regular gym. In order for them to live an active life while enjoying the oceans and their sailing destinations, careful attention was devoted to the lay out of the garage; it will be equipped for and designed to hold numerous toys and transportation vehicles, as well as a complete diving center. The already ample spaces were specifically designed and re-proportioned in height, exceeding the already excellent standards that are the norm on all Explorer yachts in the Darwin Class. The interior height allowances were increased to 2.18 meters, something incredible for a 100-foot yacht and consequently, all of the doors and windows were re-proportioned. This way, the owner will not have to suffer any of the classic problems that particularly tall people experience on a yacht of this length.  All the technical standards that have made CdM a benchmark in its sector have been maintained: 12mm steel hull, cupronickel piping, independent rudders, automatic generator parallel, electric fins stabilizers, as well as waste-water treatment systems for black, gray, and bilge waters that have been adapted from the world of work ships and designed to be used 24/7 year round.  The interior spaces will be designed by Italian interior firm PFA and Partners, which is partnering with Cdm’s project managers and the owner, to design the interior layout. The interior will offer four cabins; Master, VIP, and two guest cabins, plus three crew cabins and a captain’s cabin adjacent to the bridge. The owners have proposed a warm and welcoming interior style, where the walnut wood tones find their perfect complement in the wallpapers, the leathers, and the other luxury materials used to create a very cozy atmosphere. The theme that pulls it all together will be the pairing of classical style and modern touches, especially in accessories and free standing pieces of furniture that offer a tremendous visual impact in terms of form. The owners personal cabin was the object of particular focus; a large full-beam space in the center of the yacht, with a highly original solution for connecting the sleeping area with the bath and dressing room area.

www.cantieredellemarche.it

Improve-it = Sunreef 70 Power

Launched in May 2015 at the Sunreef Yachts shipyard in Gdansk Poland, Blue Belly is now opening her interiors to the public. Being the twelve unit from the timeless 70 Sunreef Power line introduced and designed by famous sailor Laurent Bourgnon in 2008, Blue Belly is the first build 70 ft power catamaran from Sunreef with a fully open saloon. The idea of having a 70 Power by the owners came in 2014, straight after the launch of their first yacht, a Sunreef 60 Power. The stunning 60 footer unleashed desires of owning a yacht of a bigger size and with an appreciation for luxury design and for spending indulgent time aboard, the 70 feet catamaran seemed to be the best option for such discerning clients.  Knowing the client`s needs, Sunreef Yachts in coperation with designers Orna Weitz and Brosh Alon opened the living area on the main deck and eliminated the interior navigation station in the saloon. In this way, an incredible amount of living space combined with the lounging and dining area was achieved. As 70 Power number 12 is dedicated to short cruises, the yacht is equipped in the exterior helm station on the flybridge. Straight from the saloon is direct access to the master suite located at the front of the yacht. Following her predecessor 1 Life launched in 2014, Blue Belly`s master cabin features panoramic views and has a spectacular magic glass panel separating the his and hers bathroom from the sleeping area.

www.sunreef-yachts.com

Project: Sunseeker 52 Manhattan

With good sales currently incoming from the 57 Predator, Sunseeker thought wisely to return its attention on the smaller sizes of its range.  Here comes the project for a new 52 Manhattan as entry level to its flybridge range, which will be available with IPS pod or shaft drive option and a max of 725hp per engine.  The new 52 Manhattan will offer interesting accommodation solutions and feature one of the largest side window profile for a Sunseeker flybridge.  It's flybridge will also be a spacious affair while unlike the 55 we see the use of the astern galley.  The accommodation layout will feature a three double cabin interior, plus an aft crew cabin. Option will also exist for a standard bathing platform, or an extended up down tender lift system which increases length by four feet. 

www.sunseeker.com

New Model: Galeon 510 Skydeck

After the acclaim received for the 500 Fly, Galeon ups its game and on the same platform presents the new 510 Skydeck. The 510 Skydeck is all identical in the technical details, yes you get the expanding aft deck which from a beam of 4.4 meters becomes six with an impressive advantage to the entertainment space available at anchor. But the difference in the 510 Skydeck is the fly deck which is more or less non existent, and here offers a sunpad and a sunroof catering to one-third of the main deck, and more sportier profile outside. Down below and engine specification are all the same, with the 510 Skydeck offering a three double cabin layout with full beam owners room, VIP to fore, and twin bunk to starboard, plus a crew cabin aft.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.2 m (53.1ft)

Hull Length - 14.4 m

Beam - 4.46 m

Draft - 1.00 m exluding props

Displacement - 22750 kg light

Fuel Capacity - 2 x 900 l

Water Capacity - 600 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth

Max Persons - 12

Engines - 2 x Volvo D9 575hp, D11 725hp

Project - Tony Castro

Certification - CE B

www.galeon.pl

Project: Ferretti Custom Line 42 Navetta

In the year of the twentieth anniversary of Ferretti Custom Line, the company launches the new Navetta 37 and plans the future of Custom Line semi-displacement series. At “Yachts Miami Beach 2016” the Group has announced the birth of the biggest Custom Line Navetta ever built, the astonishing Navetta 42. The Navetta 42 is the first Custom Line ship over 300 Gross Tonnage and it will be launched in 2018. The new ship is designed by Studio Zuccon under the guidance of the Ferretti Group’s Strategic Committee and developed by the in-house Engineering Department.  The 42 Navetta will feature some interesting details as its four decks offering even more spaces for the owner and his guests. As all the Custom Line’s super yachts, the 42 interiors and exteriors are fully customization. Owner will enjoy his huge suite on the main deck, while the versatile lower deck is able to be designed with 4 VIP or 5 suites. Captain will have a private cabin on the upper deck with direct access to the pilot house, while the crew area may be fitted with accommodation up to seven berths. As in the 37-meter, the new Navetta 42 will ensure the most efficient organization of on board flows, offering total privacy for the Owner and the guests, and great freedom of movement for the captain and the crew.  The stern area consists of a huge beach club at the sea level, devoted to leisure time, thanks to the side opening garage with water toys launching system.  Ferretti Custom Line Navetta 42 will be available with five different engine options, powering from 1400 to 1825hp. The super yacht will be able to reach a transatlantic range of more than 3000 nautical miles at the economic cruising speed of ten knots.

www.customline-yacht.com

New Model: Absolute 52 Navetta

After the good reviews the 58 Navetta received, it was simple mathematics for the always moving forward Absolute to introduce a smaller 52 feet sister.  The 52 Navetta at about two meters smaller from the 58 offers similar values to the first of the series and current largest model of the range; three double cabins interior with midships full beam owners room, living main deck with astern galley, and last a ship like move around ability.  As all Absolute the 52 continues the believe of the North Italian boat builder in IPS pod drives, and engine power from the D6 435hp units

Technical Data:

LOA - 16 m (52ft)

Beam - 4.65 m

Fuel Capacity - 2000 l + 550 l optional

Water Capacity - 600 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS pod drives 

Speed - 25 knots max, 20 knots cruise

Project - Absolute Research Lab

www.absoluteyachts.com

Project: Viking 72 Convertible

Viking’s peerless sportfishing yachts continues to wave its reign as the New Jersey boat builder introduces the project for a new 72 Convertible set to launch in the mid second half of 2016.  The first version of the 72 to launch will be the standard Open Bridge, which will feature accommodations layouts with four staterooms, all featuring a private head.  The main deck will feature a J-shape sofa in the salon, a U-shape galley with custom granite counter-tops, crown molding on upper cabinetry, and a large walk-in pantry forward.  An option exists for the forward stateroom to feature a queen berth in the forward stateroom, or crossover berths in the forward cabin. Power options are not yet announced but expect top speed in the forty knots region with the large engines.

www.vikingyachts.com