-pic of the month- Itama Goes to Hollywood
Bavaria Two Nominations for Motorboat Award 2018
Bavaria Yachts has once again won an award for its innovative, pioneering role in yacht building and been nominated for its new motor yachts and catamarans. Two nominations for the Motorboat Award 2018. The Bavaria R40 Coupe and the E40 Fly were nominated by the British Motorboat and Yachting magazine for the Motorboat Award 2018. In the ‘Flybridges under 60ft’ category, the Bavaria E40 Fly will have to contend with some very stiff competition. This year, its sister the Bavaria E40 Sedan was selected as Powerboat of the Year 2017. The Bavaria R40 Coupe, which had its world premiere at the boot in Düsseldorf in January this year, will battle it out in the ‘Sportscruisers under 45ft’ category. The winners will be announced at the London Boat Show at the beginning of January.
Bavaria Yachts Wins Boat Builder Awards
At the METS in Amsterdam, the world’s largest show for suppliers to the yacht building industry, Bavaria Yachts was awarded the international Boat Builder Award for its innovative Modutec production technology. The jury praised this modular design for yacht interiors as groundbreaking in the yacht building industry. Bavaria Yachts produces the interior for all new models, including all installations, completely from modules outside the hull.
Cranchi and Volvo Penta Celebrate Fifty Years
Volvo Penta and Cranchi have established a supportive and gratifying relationship over half a century, thanks to the desire by both companies to pursue innovative ways of producing premium products to suit customers’ needs and wishes. Cranchi began working with Volvo Penta in 1967 and was one of the first companies to select the Inboard Performance System (IPS) as an ideal propulsion solution for its yachts, when Volvo Penta launched its revolutionary product in 2005. The yacht-builder’s Mediterranee 43 HT, launched two years later, was hailed as being ‘unique’, thanks to the combination of the beautiful styling and impressive IPS technology. Another milestone in the relationship was reached when Cranchi selected Volvo Penta IPS for three of its stunning new Evoluzione flybridge models, in 2016. The Evoluzione series was designed to ‘push boundaries and transcend all limits’ of what could be achieved in the leisure market, by offering customers yachts that feature excellent performance and chic design. The E52 F flybridge and E52 S hard top yachts are both powered by twin Volvo Penta D8-IPS700s; while the E56 F flybridge yacht can be powered by either twin D11-IPS800s or D11-IPS900s. The E52 F model has been recognized as an extraordinary flybridge yacht in being named ‘Adriatic Boat of the Year’ at the Internautica International Boat Show in Slovenia, in 2017. “We have established a great partnership with Volvo Penta over the past 50 years, and it is a collaboration that we very much appreciate,” says Aldo Cranchi, one of the owners of the yacht-building company. “Both of our companies have changed a lot over this time, but together we have shown that beautiful design and technological advancements work very well in harmony.”
Evo Yachts New France Dealer
Evo Yachts will be landing in the French capital to take part for the first time in the Paris Boat Show, from December 2 to 10 at the Paris Expo site. The event represents the market debut of Evo Yachts France, the company led by Jean Marc Bichot, appointed the new dealer for France. With his team who all have twenty years experience in the yachting industry and two operating bases in Port Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël, Evo Yachts France consolidates the Naples-based yachtbuilder’s already vast and close-knit sales & service network, consisting exclusively of reliable partners and structured to deliver an impeccable level of assistance for owners before, during and after sale.
Ferretti Group and Allied Marine
Allied Marine announced today an enhanced relationship with its controlling company, Ferretti Group, by becoming the exclusive dealer for Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Itama, Riva and Mochi Craft along the East Coast of the United States, as well as an authorized dealer for CRN and Custom Line. As the global leader in the sale of pre-owned units of the Ferretti Group brands, Allied Marine strengthens its longstanding affiliation with the brands now as a dealer. Focused on yacht sales and charter within the 50 to 100-foot range, as well as a dedicated superyacht team focused on the 100+ foot market, the move will allow Allied Marine to further develop these core business areas and bring a superb portfolio of new models to its clientele. “These brands encompass the most exquisite yachts and custom superyachts in the world today,” said Allied Marine Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Justin Blue. “With over 70 years of assisting our clients to make their dreams become reality, our team is highly experienced in the industry. Becoming a dealership gives us the breadth and ability to secure our lead position in the global market.” “Our customers trust the integrity, passion and experience of Allied Marine for new yacht sales, brokerage and charter,” added Allied Marine President Jon Burkard. “These relationships, founded on our service, have allowed us to build a loyal customer base that fuels our evolution. An evolution that is fully reflected in the re-launch of our brand.”
Ferretti Group Office in Jakarta
Ferretti Group is further increasing its reach in Southeast Asia. Ferretti Group Asia Pacific, the Group’s Hong Kong-based subsidiary and Yacht Sourcing, its new exclusive dealer in Indonesia celebrated last Saturday, November 25th, the official opening of their new office in the capital of the latter country. Just a few months after the signing of the agreement based on a three-year exclusive dealership for Ferretti Yachts, Riva and Pershing brands, the two companies organized a gala evening at the suggestive Jet Ski, Jakarta's exclusive seaside location. Over 120 VIP guests and shipowners participated in the celebrations for the opening of Yacht Sourcing’s new office, located at Jalan Pantai Mutiara, in a dazzling area for the maritime activities of the Capital, near the Marina of Jakarta. "We wish to emphasize through this evening the great importance and value of a new partnership with a strategic partner such as Yacht Sourcing, in a market like Indonesia, the largest archipelago state in the world and of particularly significant role in our expansion in Asia", said Stefano de Vivo, Chief Commercial Officer of Ferretti Group. "This new office is the perfect location to welcome shipowners and customers and present the fabulous fleets of Ferretti Yachts, Pershing and Riva, brand ambassadors of the Italian yachting industry around the world." During the gala, Ferretti Group and Yacht Sourcing were accompanied by their several partners: Maserati, the Group's consolidated partner in all major events and yacht shows; the Champagne maison DuVal Leroy, and Dimatique together with Sunbrella, for wine tasting and the decoration of the Jet Ski, respectively. Forbes and Tatler's Indonesian editions were the official media partners of the gala.
Ferretti Group Gianni Zuccon Receives AltaGamma Award
On November 22, Gianni Zuccon was welcomed onto the Altagamma Honorary Council as Ambassador for Italian Excellence in the world, joining a prestigious list of talented people who work in diverse areas of culture, art, design and politics, and contribute each in their own way to promoting the best global image for Italy. The ceremony was held in Rome, with Italian Minister Angelino Alfano in attendance, in the magnificent Villa Madama on the slopes of Monte Mario hill, which was designed based on an architectural idea by Raffaello. This exclusive and exquisitely beautiful venue is generally used by the Italian Ministry for Foreign Affairs to host institutional events and only rarely is permission granted for its use by private individuals and organisations. The architect and founding partner of Zuccon International Project was chosen for his valuable and passionate design work, as well as for his celebrated innovations in the world of yachting. A fundamental and highly appreciated contribution made by Zuccon is the role he gave to light and close contact with the sea. By swapping the roles traditionally played by interiors and exteriors, he gave a boost to the outdoor areas, creating yacht designs in which settings literally flooded with light carry on a conversation with the sea, thanks in part to the massive use of spectacular glass surfaces. The other personalities chosen this year to represent our country’s sense of beauty and excellence have backgrounds in various sectors but all share the same great devotion to their work: Carlo Cracco, Claudio Costamagna, Eleonora Abbagnato, Francesco Cerea, Fulvio Pierangelini, Piero Bassetti and Michele Mauri.
Ferretti Yachts Zuccon Project Named as Italy's Top 25 Architects
In the ranking of the Top 50 Italian architecture and design firms drawn up annually by Guamari and published in the Sole24Ore newspaper, Zuccon International Project is in twenty third place overall and the leading yacht designer by far. This is a hectic period for Zuccon International Project and full of novelties. The desire to explore unknown directions has given the company a boost of energy and motivation, bringing about some major changes and innovations. They include partnerships with highly-reputed shipbuilders Sanlorenzo and Perini Navi, as well as two World Yachts Trophies awarded during the Cannes Boat Show. The firm will also soon be moving into big new offices, designed as a sort of “creative laboratory” with input and ideas from the worlds of architecture, design, sport and culture, in a decision confirming that its desire to grow and keep improving is still strong. This desire was recently rewarded with an important acknowledgement: Zuccon International Project is 23rd of the top 50 Italian architecture and design studios and top-ranking Italian yacht designer. The classification is drawn up annually, based on a survey conducted by Aldo Norsa at Guamari. Published in theSole24Ore newspaper, it covers Italy’s leading firms of designers and architects, working in the sectors that best represent the country’s economy, including yacht design of course. The other firms in the classification include internationally famous names like Renzo Piano. The ranking is based on a series of parameters used to assess the results reported in 2016, and the position won by the Rome-based firm is particularly important not only because it has beaten some world-famous design practices, but also because it confirms the progress made by Zuccon International Project, which ranked 41st last year. This big leap forward represents both an outstanding achievement after years of passionate dedication to this exciting and challenging business, as well as a point of departure on the path to new ideas and projects for a future that people will soon be talking about.
Frauscher Shipyard Expand
Frauscher are happy to announce that the first expansion of the new shipyard built in 2012 has been completed. The state-of-the-art Frauscher paint shop is online and features a cabin suitable for boats up to 55 foot. With a team of highly skilled painters Frauscher can offer clients a huge range of colors even in metallic and pearl hues. The first results of this will be shown at the 2018 boot Düsseldorf where a brown metallic Frauscher 1017 GT and a slate grey 1414 Demon painted in the new cabin will be displayed. The cabin was supplied by Rowit Spuitkabines Kampen Holland B.V. and is fitted with a high-end filtration system to eliminate environmental pollution.
Gulf Craft and Fun Air New Partnership
FunAir and Gulf Craft during Metstrade 2017, the largest marine equipment trade show worldwide, that a partnership agreement has been made for Gulf Craft to be an official FunAir distributor in the Middle East territories. Gulf Craft, the world’s innovative builder of luxury yachts and leisure boats, has served the aspirations of passionate seafarers for more than three decades. The award-winning manufacturer is one of the world’s leading superyacht shipyards, a merit it has achieved through continuous investment in research and development. Sharing the same passion for continued development and improving the yachting experience, FunAir and Gulf Craft are a perfect fit. FunAir launch a new concept in inflatable yachting fun each year, with the latest redesigned Playground and Junior BigAir Blob showcased for the first time on the water at Monaco Yacht show in September. The two innovative companies took the opportunity during the show to finalise their agreement that has been under discussion over the summer months, and have officially announced the partnership today at the start of METS. FunAir inflatables will be offered as an option on all Gulf Craft new build projects, and superyacht enthusiasts can view the synergy between these leading brands at the Dubai International Boat Show in 2018 when they will exhibit together. John Courtney, Managing Director of Yachting at FunAir commented, “It has been a pleasure working on this partnership with Erwin Bamps and his team. When a company has the same values and attention to detail that we pride ourselves on at FunAir, then it makes sense to work together. Gulf Craft are an exceptional superyacht manufacturer and we look forward to inflating the Fun on board their yachts with the full FunAir portfolio.” Erwin Bamps, CEO Gulf Craft, added, “Superyacht lifestyle is all about the customer’s overall experience. Surrounding ourselves with reliable partners that assist in building a holistic yachting experience is crucial to us. We are very pleased with our FunAir partnership, and believe it helps both of our companies to redefine yachting every day.”
Hatteras Record Sales
Hatteras Yachts a world leader in the construction of convertible sportfishing and luxury motor yachts from 45 to 100 feet, has announced that it experienced record sales during the 2017 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Nov. 1-5. The company said sales were up 34 percent over FLIBS 2016, while the number of visitors to the Hatteras display increased by 15 percent. The company displayed seven Hatteras models in the water at its large stand, including the brand new M90 Panacera and GT45X Flybridge, both of which made their World Premieres at the show. Hatteras also introduced the new GT59 Convertible with a full-scale, walk-in mockup of the salon and galley in its display. An international press conference, an exclusive Hatteras Club party, and a christening also highlighted the boat show for Hatteras owners, customers and their families. “The new boat sales we made and the great customer interest in all our models we experienced at FLIBS have further contributed to our company’s growing momentum and strong sales position,” said Hatteras Yachts President and CEO Kelly Grindle. Attracting attention from the moment the boat show opened, the new GT45X Flybridge (shown at left) proved that adding an upper helm station to this nimble fishing boat was a very smart idea. With its high vantage point on the waters around the boat, added seating and storage space, it lets anglers fish in a style that traditional center consoles can’t match. “The GT45X has proved to be so popular with offshore fishermen that we decided that adding a flybridge option will provide tournament anglers yet another competitive edge,” said Grindle. Both the Hatteras GT45X Flybridge and M90 Panacera officially were launched with a champagne toast led by Grindle at a press conference held at the Hatteras Yachts display on the opening day of the show.
Itama Goes to Hollywood
Hollywood too, when seeking emotion and beauty, chooses Itama. In the case in question, the fantastic Itama 62 stars in one of the most exciting and eagerly anticipated films of this cinema season: “American Assassin”, a spectacular action thriller that will be in Italian theatres starting 23 November. The American movie, based on the novel by Vince Flynn, is a production of Lionsgate and CBS Films and is directed by Michael Cuesta. Distributed by 01 Distribution and exclusively in Italy by the Leone Film Group in cooperation with Rai Cinema, it features a top-tier cast including Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe® winner Michael Keaton and up-and-coming star Dylan O’ Brien, the idol of teenage girls worldwide. If someday they awarded an Oscar® for “the best motor yacht for breathtaking chase scenes”, the nomination would most certainly go to Itama 62, a model that more than any others interprets the timeless style that for almost 50 years has made the brand one of the icons of Italian yachtbuilding. It is pure spectacle, in fact, to see the 62 hurtle along with its sporty, streamlined forms in the final scene of the film, as the protagonist of an extraordinary chase between “good guy” and “villain”, played respectively by the good but vengeful Dylan O’Brien and by Taylor Kitsch in the role of the terrorist. Thanks to the engines – twin 1400 MHP MAN V12s – that power the yacht to 40 knots of top speed, Itama 62 ensured performance and emotions worthy of a big action movie. Incidentally, the scene was shot on the Lazio coast, which has always been a favourite spot for passionate Itama owners. Itama 62 expressed its power to the max in a crescendo of twists and turns. Suffice it to say, following the furious battle on the sea between the two protagonists, the scene culminates in the spectacular rescue of Mitch Rapp, the hero played by Dylan O’Brien, who gets picked up by a helicopter from onboard the Itama 62. Audiences have already given the film a very enthusiast reception; in fact, in the U.S., since its release on 15 September, “American Assassin” has grossed a whopping 36 million dollars. The performance, the speed, but also the excellent practicality of use, along with the traditional Mediterranean style that has made it a Made in Italy icon, increasingly situate Itama as a “leading actor” also across the ocean, ready to conquer, after Hollywood, other famous red carpets and illustrious stages.
Maritimo Booming USA Sales
The turn around in the USA economy with low job vacancy rates, a strong share market and a positive attitude permeating corporate America has resulted in an extremely successful Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show for Australian cruiser manufacturer Maritimo. Just back from the USA, Maritimo’s International Sales and Marketing Manager, Greg Haines, said the company displayed its M51, M54 and M59 cruising motor yachts at Fort Lauderdale and made sales across the range with more deals being negotiated. “There is generally an air of optimism in the USA currently and we certainly felt the benefits at our on water display,” he said. “Our principal USA dealer, Galati Yacht Sales, did a great job co-ordinating the pre- show marketing and scheduling of inspections and there were very good numbers during the whole show.” “Maritimo’s West Coast representatives, Compass Point Yachts and Silver Seas Yachts, also attended and had great enquiry from people traveling from the West Coast of America all the way to Fort Lauderdale to view the display.” Haines said a number of USA boat dealers approached Maritimo at Fort Lauderdale seeking to forge relationships for them to represent the brand into the future and several deals were being formalised. The M54 flybridge cruiser was a stand out vessel for the USA market and Maritimo expected to sell many more of that model going forward. “It is the right size for a lot of cruising couples and families and has many of the bigger yachts features such as the full beam master suite and also the large cockpit and hydraulic swim platform providing plenty of marine real estate at the stern of the vessel,” he said. “The Galati team feel that this particular boat will continue to be very popular in that market place.” Haines said Maritimo was now looking forward to the Miami International Boat Show where it would have five vessels on display including the S51 for the first time. Maritimo is finishing the year on a high note with the company’s race team taking out its 15th national offshore powerboat title and in an Australian first, an S59 luxury sedan cruiser being displayed in the prestigious Birdcage at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne for the Melbourne Cup. “We have been a social media sensation in recent weeks and with strong sales and strong interest in our new models such as the X60 sedan cruiser with the aft beach club the future is looking extremely bright.”
Maritimo Fast 100 Hour Tasman Crossiing
Gold Coast based professional captain Russell Fleming knows a thing or two about boats and he has just finished his 50th delivery trip between Australia and New Zealand in a vessel he says is one of the best. Captain Fleming made his momentous 50th crossing in Maritimo’s sleek, new S70 sedan motor yacht and he said the vessel performed well above all expectations. “We had 25 knots of wind on the bow and three and a half metres seas for about eight hours at one stage in the trip and she handled it beautifully,” said the veteran skipper. “We then had big following seas and she reveled in those conditions. Because she is single level the centre of gravity is quite low and she performs brilliantly in any conditions.” Captain Fleming, a New Zealander, was delivering the S70 to New Zealand for its owners Brian and Cath Carran who worked with Maritimo for a period of almost two years bringing the boat into fruition. Their decision to motor the boat from the Gold Coast to their home country was based purely on economics having cost approximately half what it would have cost to ship the vessel across The Ditch. Brian said they went with Captain Fleming because of his experience and his dogged attention to detail in preparing the boat for what can be a dangerous exercise. “Russell leaves absolutely nothing to chance and we had great confidence in him delivering our vessel on time and in good shape.” Captain Fleming said his 50th trip was quite a milestone in more ways than one – it was his fastest ever crossing taking just on 100 hours. He covered 1178 nautical miles and burned 8500 litres of diesel fuel. Average speed was 12.4 knots. The boat left the Gold Coast at 7am on a Saturday morning and arrived in The Bay of Islands four days later. Fleming prepared the vessel for the trip at Maritimo’s Hope Island marina and service centre, Boat Masters. Two fuel bladders carrying 1500 litres each were added to the port and starboard side of the vessel and the hydraulic swim platform was removed and put in a container to be shipped to NZ. He said his two crew on the trip Colin Fraser and Matthew Birdsil operated on a three hours on/ six hours off watch rotation system. “It was a great trip over and a really good test of the vessel,” he said. “She could not have handled better.” Maritimo’s Gold Coast CEO, Garth Corbitt, said the Carran’s completed a worldwide search for their perfect retirement boat before settling on the Maritimo. ” They didn’t want a flybridge vessel, but after sea trialling our M70 off the Gold Coast they were won over by its performance and threw us the challenge to build them a single level version,” he said. “The rest is history and after taking delivery of their vessel here on the Gold Coast, and then doing a six week Whitsunday’s cruise with friends and family, their pride and joy is now safely tied up in Auckland ready for them to have years of enjoyment.” “Brian and Cath were very hands on in the design process and they have customised their vessel to their own style and taste. “We knew it was a winner from the initial design stages and now that Russell has put her to the test over 100 hours and more than 1100 nautical miles our beliefs have been vindicated.” Brian and Cath Carran plan to use the boat around New Zealand and will then consider venturing further afield to locations such as Fiji and Nouméa. The vessel is powered by twin 900 horsepower Scania D16 engines.
Maritimo Notches Fifteenth National Title
Mritimo Racing has finished the 2017 season on a strong note taking out the Supercat Extreme Championship and its 15th AUS1 overall championship after a solid weekend of racing in the final round at Hervey Bay last weekend. Maritimo 12 crewed by Tom Barry-Cotter and Steve Jellick entered the final round of the Offshore Superboat Championships in Hervey Bay with a sizeable lead in the AUS 1 and Supercat Extreme Championships. The pair said they entered the weekend with a conservative strategy to preserve that lead of the championship, and not necessarily pushing for race wins. Maritimo 11, crewed by father and son team Ross and Andrew Willaton in the new Maritimo R36, in only its second event, was out of championship contention and had goals of attaining valuable testing time in the new boat. “They were plagued with power steering issues in the previous round, which saw modifications in between rounds from the standard Mercury VI Drive power steering system to an upgraded Maritimo Racing system like used in Maritimo 12,” said Barry-Cotter. He said in the first race of the weekend, Maritimo 12 lead the early laps after a great getaway from the start. However midway through the race the boat encountered a problem with its trim system, said Barry-Cotter. “We had to slow to a more cautious pace in the tricky conditions in order not to risk the overall championships,” he said. “Maritimo 12 finished race one in third, still maintaining a healthy margin in the overall points with one race left on the season. “In race two we got off to a great start again and lead the early laps, but as the conditions once again became tricky, we made the decision to hold a more cautious pace in order to finish in the points and secure the overall championships. This strategy proved successful with us crossing the line in third place, enough to secure the Supercat Extreme and overall AUS1 Overall Championships.” Maritimo 11 was not as fortunate and missed the start in race one after the boat tripped on a wave and sustained damage to its tunnel flap. In race two Maritimo 11 performed well, despite the rough and windy conditions and being the smallest boat in the class, recording a very respectable fourth place and gathering much valuable testing data to take into the off-season development program for 2018. “The team are extremely excited to have recorded a collective 15th AUS1 Title. Our goal all season was to do just that, and the entire team did a fantastic job in working towards that goal,” said Barry-Cotter. “There are many offseason projects that we will be busy with and will be announcing soon, so stay tuned.”
Maritimo The Talk of the Melbourne Cup 2017
Rekindling may have taken the 2017 Melbourne Cup but there’s no doubt that all the talk at Flemington, since Derby Day, has been about the sleek, Maritimo S59 cruising motor yacht which holds pride of place at the Maison Mumm Champagne marquee. Literally thousands of selfies and countless professional photographs were taken beside or on the yacht and its presence at the Melbourne Cup has been noted worldwide. Maritimo CEO Garth Corbitt, who has hosted the company’s VIP guests in the Mumm Yacht Club themed marquee during the racing carnival, said the response to the yacht had been phenomenal. “I think this is probably the most spectacular display ever staged in The Birdcage and everyone has loved it,” he said. “We have had literally hundreds of people view the yacht and have their photographs taken on it or beside it.” Visitors who have graced the S59 have included the Federal Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, world championship sprinter Usain Bolt, swimming legend Ian Thorpe and dozens of VIP guests of Maison Mumm. Maritimo spent hundreds of man hours getting the vessel from Sydney to the racecourse at Flemington where a 250 tonne crane was used to put in into position so the Mumm facility could be built around it. Corbitt said the international exposure the yacht received will help support Maritimo’s global brand expansion strategy. “This is by far the most unusual promotion we have been involved with and sends a clear message that with Maritimo anything is possible and we think outside the square,” he said. “We are a proud Australia company taking on the world’s best so it was fitting that we were part of one of the most exciting sporting events in the world and a race that is so quintessentially Australian.”
Nautitech Nominated for Power Multihull of 2018
Until 22 April 2018, the readers of the well known magazines Multicoques Mag and Multihulls World, and not a jury, can decide which catamarans they would like to crown Multihull of the year 2018. The new Nautitech 47 Power from Bavaria Catamarans, which will celebrate its world premiere at the beginning of 2018, has been nominated. The winners will receive their awards on the last day of the big boat show for multihulls in La Grand Motte on 23 April 2018.
Numarine Sponsors Team Zabo-Isiklar
Team Zabo-Isiklar rides a boat named “Numarine Performance Motoryachts” at the 37th Annual World Championships in Key West, Florida, the ultimate event of the Superboat International, the world's biggest and fastest offshore racing series. Numarine, the European high performance motor yacht shipyard headquartered in Istanbul with a range from 62 to 130', is happy to announce it has become the official sponsor of an offshore powerboat racing team. According to the agreement, team Zabo-Isiklar rode a boat named “Numarine Performance Motoryachts” at the 37th Annual World Championships in Key West, Florida, USA, held in November 5-12, 2017.
Princess Co-Founder Wins Lifetime Achievement Award
David King, Co-Founder of Princess Yachts, has been given the prestigious accolade of 'Lifetime Achievement', at the Boat Builder Awards 2017. The award, presented at the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam last night, tops a successful year for the British yacht-maker. Princess reported order books reaching a record-breaking €0.73billion in retail value following the Cannes Yachting Festival in September. With production capacity 90% sold through for 2018, the figures represent an 85% year-on-year increase from 2016. David King said, "I am delighted to have received such a prestigious honor. The award is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of each and every employee at Princess and I am honored to have been recognized among some of the most well-respected individuals in boat building." David King, who was born in Dundee in 1942, founded the company in 1965 under the name of Marine Projects, and has been integral in the design and manufacture of all Princess' acclaimed yachts. Drawing on his engineering expertise and his impeccable eye for detail, David still makes a significant contribution to the design of Princess' exceptional craft and now joins a host of globally recognised winners for this prestigious award.
Riva Boutique Christmas Special
The official Riva online store is enriched with new accessories crafted with the style and quality that has made the boatyard into a global yachting legend, the perfect gift ideas for the festive season. The thrill of an unexpected gift, created with the utmost attention to detail and prized materials, where elegance and style tell the story of a legendary brand. To make this an unforgettable Christmas, Riva Boutique, the official online store of the iconic yachting brand, features a new and richer range of refined accessories, with perfect gift ideas interpreting the unmistakable personality of the Riva brand. The collection offers a wide range of unique and inimitable products expressing in all kinds of ways, including to the touch, the excellence and craftsmanship of a boatyard that is a symbol of Italian made goods and has been making nautical history every day for 175 years. Riva Boutique has a gift idea for everyone, from iconic garments inspired by the brand's distinctive colours and style to household furnishings and hi-tech accessories that perfectly embody the refined taste of those who love and live the Riva legend. A rich collection to surprise and delight family, friends and colleagues at Christmas time. The guiding principle behind the “Riva Brand Experience” is encapsulated in the concept “Riva inside, inside Riva”, based on treasured and timeless values, such as the high quality of the materials and the meticulous attention to detail, which have always been the hallmarks of Riva boats and characterise today's entire Riva Boutique collection.
Riva Chief Designer Awarded of Honorary Membership of Altagamma
Mauro Micheli (Chief Designer and cofounder with Sergio Beretta of Officina Italiana Design) has been made an Honorary Member of Altagamma in the atmospheric surrounds of the stunning Villa Madama, which is used for official receptions by the Italian Prime Minister’s Office and Ministry for Foreign Affairs. That honour was conferred on him by Altagamma president Andrea Illy during the opening evening of the Giornata Altagamma event, which was also attended by the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano. Honorary memberships were also awarded to yacht designer Giovanni Zuccon, dance star Eleonora Abbagnato, entrepreneur Piero Bassetti, CDP president Claudio Costamagna, Michelin-starred chefs Francesco Cerea, Carlo Cracco and Fulvio Pierangelini, and the MART and Gallerie degli Uffizi cultural institutions. The businesses that founded Altagamma (Alessi, Baratti&Milano, Salvatore Ferragamo, Gucci, FontanaArte, Versace, Ermenegildo Zegna) were honoured in the course of the evening too. Since 1992, the Fondazione Altagamma has brought together high-end Italian cultural and creative companies to promote Italian excellence, uniqueness and life style internationally across a broad spectrum of sectors (fashion, design, jewellery, food, hospitality, wellness). The Altagamma Honorary Council was set up in 2013 to develop an international network of organisations and companies that had been longtime partners of the Altagamma Businesses on a global level. The Nautica Italiana marine industry representative association joined in 2014 and its entry into Altagamma allowed the Foundation to open up to the world of yachting, another sector of excellence. Altagamma Honorary Council members include such leading ambassadors for Italian excellence as Gillo Dorfles, Gualtiero Marchesi, Davide Oldani, Massimo Bottura, Alessandro Mendini, Ludovico Einaudi, Mario Bellini, Andrea Bocelli, Mario Pedol, Stefano Righini and Giorgetto Giugiaro, to name but a few. Mauro Micheli and the new Honorary Members have now joined this illustrious and prestigious list. “I am truly honoured to be awarded this title,” Mauro Micheli declared. “For over 30 years, I have been designing boats that are international standard-bearers for Italian style. However, I want to share this title with all the Officina Italiana Design team: we work together to create elegant, innovative, timeless objects in line with our philosophy. We do so very naturally and with passion by following an instinct that is part and parcel of the Italian culture and traditions so greatly admired all over the world.”
Riviera Owners Navigate Bass Strait
Bass Strait between the Australian mainland and the island state of Tasmania is notorious for heavy seas and high winds coming in from the Antarctic. For a flotilla of seven Riviera’s recently, it provided a memorable adventure as Victorian Riviera and Belize dealer R Marine Jacksons hosted a weekend voyage to Refuge Cove, a small bay at Wilsons Promontory, 145 nautical miles east of the safety of Port Phillip Bay and the city of Melbourne. "The Prom", as it is affectionately known, is the most southerly point of mainland Australia, and is named after Thomas Wilson, a little-known English merchant and friend of explorer Matthew Flinders. Refuge Cove is well named, being often used as a stopover for boats travelling along the Victorian coast or waiting for a weather window to cross the Strait to Tasmania. The Riviera flotilla left various home ports in Port Phillip Bay on a Friday and met at Queenscliff Harbour near the Bay's entry headlands. Everyone enjoyed a dinner at the local hotel before returning to their motor yachts to prepare for an eight o'clock start the next morning. "Six owners had never taken their motor yachts outside the Bay before and were eager to explore the sights of the coast," said Ray Haddrell aboard his Riviera 565 SUV, Rayzaway V. Ray has owned five Riviera’s and has voyaged along much of the Victorian coastline as well as travelling north to the Riviera yard in Queensland on a number of occasions. "The Refuge Cove Experience organised by Stuart and his team has given all the owners the confidence to voyage further afield," he said. Phil Cozens, aboard his Riviera 3600 Sport Yacht, Cara Mia, said he felt comfortable travelling with the flotilla. "The weekend has given me great confidence in our Sport Yacht. She handled the conditions perfectly," he said. "It was a great adventure." After an uneventful five-hour voyage, the flotilla anchored at Refuge Cove. A leisurely afternoon was spent taking in the sights of the Cove. It offers spectacular scenery, including huge granite mountains, rainforest, sweeping beaches and coastlines. Stuart Jackson and his team set up a barbecue on the beach and the group enjoyed a hearty meal and great conversation, discussing the events of the day. "It was great to spend time with like-minded motor yacht owners," said Phil Cozens. "We shared experiences and information. Stuart and his team were fantastic, imparting their knowledge of yachting and of the capabilities of our Riviera’s." "The trip of a lifetime," was how Tom and Marianne Sonsini aboard their Riviera 3000 Series II Offshore Pescara summed up the weekend. Jake Reed enjoyed learning more about the great range of Riviera models. "Stuart's skipper, Dave, was priceless," he said. "He was able to answer every question I had. "I learned why the other Riviera’s are all powered by diesel engines. We have large twin petrol engines powering my Riviera M430 Sports Cruiser. After the weekend, I decided to name her Thirsty. "The weekend was a fantastic experience. I took a couple of friends on this voyage. Next time I want to bring my wife and young children along. They would have loved the beach." Sunday was spent fishing, swimming and walking in the national park before the group came together in the evening aboard Ray Haddrell's Rayzaway V for drinks and food. "We partied late into the night," said Ray. Monday morning was an early start for everyone. "We roused the skippers at around five o'clock to depart at 6.30am and head back to our home ports," said Stuart Jackson. "We were rewarded by a calm sea all the way home."
Sunseeker Celebrates Two Boat Builder Awards
Sunseeker International, Britain’s biggest boat builder, is celebrating winning two prestigious categories at this year’s Boat Builder Awards, which were announced last night during a ceremony at The National Maritime Museum, Amsterdam. Sunseeker won the awards for most Innovative On-Board Design Solution and Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme. The Boat Builder Awards celebrate outstanding business achievement within the marine industry, organised jointly by IBI magazine and METSTRADE and recognize individual and team success across eight categories of business achievement globally. The award for most Innovative On-Board Design Solution was presented to Sunseeker for its ‘Beach Club’ concept, a design feature first introduced on the new Manhattan 52 and subsequently rolled out across all new models in line with customer demand. This innovative solution utilises otherwise unused space for owners and their friends and family to relax close to the water. The remarkable design provides a seamless extension to the main deck and offers owners a plethora of options including the built-in barbeque, overhead ‘rain shower’ and fold down transom seating. The innovative concept demonstrates Sunseeker’s deep understanding of its customers and the way in which they use their boats. The award win for Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme is recognition of Sunseeker’s dedication to the development of apprentices across the business. Sunseeker has recognised the benefits of this for over 35 years and currently supports over 116 apprentices with its apprenticeship programme. Working in partnership with Bournemouth & Poole College and its specialist Marine Technology Centre, Sunseeker is firmly committed to developing the high-level skills of young marine engineers and boat builders who will help to maintain its reputation as a world leader in luxury motor yachts. Commenting on the awards, Phil Popham, CEO of Sunseeker International said: “The awards are testament to the skill and dedication of our 2,400 employees in Dorset where we have meticulously manufactured award-winning yachts for nearly half a century. To be honoured in these two categories is absolutely fantastic. Throughout the decades, Sunseeker has always strived to be more advanced, ambitious, innovative – and consequently more successful. He continued, “The award win for our apprenticeship scheme clearly demonstrates our investment in and commitment to the future of the marine industry, enabling people in our local community to kick-start their career in this sector but is also thanks to the discretionary effort of our employees who help develop apprentices across the business. As a direct result of our healthy forward order book, we are continuing to recruit for skilled staff this year and our apprentices form part of a talent pipeline to support this.” IBI Editor and chair of the Boat Builder Awards judges, Ed Slack, commented: “The Boat Builder Awards was conceived to champion the vision and dedication of the people that build boats today and the great efforts they are making to ensure the marine industry continues to provide the right products for its current and future customers. It is also vital that all sectors of the industry collaborate closely, to ensure the very best user experiences. Our winning and shortlisted companies this year provided brilliant examples, not only of individual excellence but also the great results that occur when teams and businesses work closely together.” Building on its 2,400 strong workforce, Sunseeker is recruiting across Dorset in a number of disciplines including GRP laminators and Finishers, Carpenters, Electricians and Engineers, as well as other manufacturing and construction related roles.
Tecnorib Pirelli Signs Up New Dealers
Two new dealers join the Tecnorib distribution network, confirming the company’s desire to expand into unexplored markets. The first, BG Yachting, will handle the sale of Pirelli rigid inflatable boats in Bulgaria, while SF Yachts, headquartered in Dubai, will cover the Middle Eastern region. The novelties at Tecnorib continue, with the signing of two strategic partnerships with a European distributor and an Arab company. After the recent success of the Pirelli 1900, born of renewed collaboration between Tecnorib and Pirelli and designed by Mannerfelt Design Team, the Lombardy-based company is now working to expand its sales network and promote awareness of its inflatables outside Western Europe too. The first agreement was signed with BG Yachting, a company based in the storied city of Nessebar on the Black Sea coast, in the district of Burgasin. The company, which was established in 2005 and is already the dealer for several prestige car marques, will distribute the Pirelli ribs in this area, where the industry is experiencing a period of expansion. SF Yachts, headquartered in Dubai, will handle the sale and promotion of Pirelli rigid inflatable boats in Middle Eastern Countries, where it has a consolidated presence and is already the dealer for many well-known international shipbuilders. The Chief Executive Officer of the company is Sardinian engineer Francesco Pitea, who has a long and varied background in the yachting sector, where he has worked for the last 15 years in various positions for diverse companies.
Viking Win 2017 Bisbee Los Cabos Offshore Tournament
A last-minute catch helped Thomas Powell and his team win the 2017 Bisbee Los Cabos Offshore Tournament. Fishing on the Viking 80 Hooray, Thomas hooked a monster blue marlin at the end of the last day of the tournament. His three-hour-plus fight continued after the sun went down with the whole crew cheering him on. When the fish was finally boated, Captain Francisco "Pancho" Bojorquez made a call to the weigh station to assure them they were on the way and then sped back to shore at 40 knots. Team Hooray had the choice to fish either the Pacific Ocean or the Sea of Cortez. Their decision to cruise along the Gordo Banks, the gateway between the two bodies of water, paid off with top honors and a nice big check.
Viking Dust Em Off
Congratulations to the Viking 62 Mdala for their second place finish at the recent Dust'em Off Sailfish Warm Up out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After having a blast fishing the Viking Key West Challenge last year, Steve and Sue Pfeifer along with their son Erich decided to fish Mdala on the sailfish circuit. Led by captain John Hagen and mate Cody Gunther, the team released eight sailfish to secure their spot on the leader-board.
Viking Sponsor 55th Annual Buccaneer Cup
The excitement is building for the 55th Annual Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Tournament being held this January 25 through 27, 2018. Boats will compete for a bigger purse as the tournament cash payout will be doubled to $20,000. The tournament is open to everyone with a spread of Calcutta categories that leaves no one out of the hunt for the cash. The past two years saw the winning boats each take home well over $90,000 in total prize money. Online registration is open and early entry discounts are in place. Register and pay before December 1 to get a $500 discount. The Captain's Meeting Party is sponsored by Viking Yachts and HMY Yacht Sales at Sailfish Marina in Palm Beach Shores on January 25, 2018. The awards dinner will be held at the Sailfish Club of Florida on Palm Beach Island and is sponsored by MTU and its east coast distributors, Florida Detroit Diesel Allison/Johnson & Towers. The tournament committee has instituted several rules and procedural changes that will streamline the event and make compliance easier, like the move to video catch validation. New members of the tournament committee, including Mike Samuels from the Viking Yacht Service Center, are well versed in running the video validation process and are providing valuable help in executing the tournament. While at the Buccaneer Cup check out the new Viking demo in action just prior to the Viking VIP Show, held at our Riviera Beach location, just across the Intracoastal from Sailfish Marina. A special Charity Fuel Up program will be in place leading up to the tournament sponsored by SSI Petroleum, which is donating five cents per gallon to the RFA.
Zeelander Family Expands
After having started boating with a smaller Italian runabout Marco decided it was time for a boat that offers more comfort and the possibility for overnight or weekend trips. His boat of choice: a lovely Zeelander Z44, Marco loves the soft and timeless lines of the boat combined with the ease of operation and maintenance. “These were some of the main criteria for choosing a Zeelander”, Marco states. Next summer he will be exploring the Dutch waterways including the “Wadden Sea”. This small but challenging sea with strong tides, sandbars and a string of Islands off the Northern coast of The Netherlands is listed on the UNESCO and offers beautiful views of unspoiled nature and great boating.
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