August 1, 2019

To Charter or Not

July and August always mark the most busy time of the season, with everyone trying to find the time to enjoy a boat as much he can.  The owners who are paying bills all year round are trying to cash on the experience and cover some expenses, while those who got the boat bug in the Winter will try to charter it out, to feel the experience.  If the experience is right many times and after a few charters this ends up in a purchase.  
The charter offer has truly expanded in recent years what was up until a few years ago a market reserved for mostly twenty meter plus size and a charter time of about a week, now is a market offering all size and ranges and type of boats and daily charters in the hot cruising grounds has increased not by little.  While charter can be good to make return to some of the expenses a boat has, it is a catch to it.  
A charter boat will always has a stamp to it making it lose value in the used brokerage boat market, and the worst catch of it all is that many owners turn it fully into a business.  Meaning that the boat private use is finished and it becomes a full business venture.  Nothing wrong with this if it was one's plan all along, but if it was not think about it carefully before venturing into charter. 

July 31, 2019

Monthly News - July 2019

-pic of the month- Sunreef Welcomes Rafael Nadal


Feadship 1939 Zephyr Relaunched After Refit

Eighty years and two months after her initial launch in May 1939, the 15-metre Feadship Zephyr has been relaunched after a comprehensive rebuild. Initially built by De Vries in Aalsmeer to a De Voogt design a decade before the two families joined forces with Van Lent to form Feadship, Zephyr was an innovative motoryacht for her day, one of the very first to have her design tank-tested. Now, in early July 2019, she is making headlines again as a textbook example of how our maritime heritage can be restored to 21st-century standards of comfort while retaining the historic ambiance of days gone by.


Fraucher Expands in the Cote D'Azur

From dreamy Lake Traunsee in the heart of the Salzkammergut area to Port Adriano and the French Riviera. Seven years after the Majorca location was opened, Frauscher Shipyard is launching its next offensive in the Mediterranean region with a subsidiary near Saint-Tropez on the Côte d’Azur that exhibits even more exquisite international flair. The opening of the subsidiary emphasizes the Austrian family-owned company’s future-oriented strategy.  The harbor of Port Grimaud is not only a popular tourist attraction, but also draws boating enthusiasts from around the world. The region in southeastern France, also known as the “Venice of France”, with more than 2000 berths and a picturesque backdrop, is the ideal location for presenting premium luxury yachts to international boating enthusiasts. The new sales location allows enjoyable test drives through the picturesque city on the lagoon and nearby bays, for example with the Frauscher 1017 GT or the Frauscher 1414 Demon.  Stefan Frauscher, the member of management who is responsible for the new sales point, explains: “We want to be closer to international customers who are looking for a sporty boat with an outstanding design and who appreciate first-rate service. The new location in Port Grimaud is ideal for potential buyers who wish to take the boat for a spontaneous cruise to the beaches of St. Tropez or Cannes.”  For three generations the family owned shipyard has been building motor yachts, electric yachts and sailing yachts that have earned a well-deserved reputation worldwide. The key drivers for the popularity of these boats – with the quality mark “Made in Austria” – are innovative solutions, excellent craftsmanship, and a huge passion for boat-building.  By expanding to Port Adriano in Majorca Frauscher had already demonstrated the diversity of the company’s motor and electric yachts, which cut a good figure in virtually any water due to their outstanding handling characteristics. The second sales location in France’s Port Grimaud now responds to the increasing importance of the market on the Mediterranean coast.


Hatteras 2019 Club Rendezvous

On June 22nd, a team from Hatteras aboard the GT59 Hatterascal led six other Hatteras Yachts across the Gulf Stream to start the 2019 Hatteras Club Rendezvous. This exclusive annual event brings together like-minded Hatteras owners and their families and friends to enjoy a Hatteras-hosted adventure that none of them is likely to forget.  In addition to the GT59, this year’s Rendezvous fleet included a Hatteras M75 Panacera, 72 Motor Yacht, two M60 motor yachts, and two GT45X sportfishing yachts. The week-long voyage took them all the way to the Exumas Cays and back, with plenty of sightseeing, swimming, and fine dining along the way.

Hatteras 2019 Cup Competition

Angler Carols Bortoni on the Hatteras 54 Convertible Centurion landed a 450.45-lb. blue and currently owns the leaderboard for the “Heaviest Blue Marlin” category in this year’s Hatteras Cup tournament. Team Centurion stands to win the $50,000 top prize for the category if no one fishing from a Hatteras enters a bigger blue. The Hatteras Cup continues until December 31, 2019, so all you Hatteras anglers out there have plenty of time to challenge Centurion or win prize money in one of the five other categories. All you have to do is register your Hatteras in advance of entering a fish caught from your boat anywhere in the world!


Heesen Expands Facility in Winterswijk

Heesen is delighted to announce the expansion of its facility in Winterswijk, province of Gelderland – the home of its renowned interior workshop. Located just over an hour’s drive from Oss, the facility was acquired in 2000, under the name ‘Oortgiese’.  Originally established in 1940, Heesen Interiors has created the most luxurious, award-winning interior furniture exclusively for Heesen yachts for the past 34 years.  Today’s expansion consists of 2,240 square meters of new production space, which brings the total production area to 8,100 square meters. The office space increases by 332 square meters reaching almost 1,000 square meters.  Concurrently with the facility development, Heesen is hiring 30 new employees, who will bring the total workforce in Winterswijk to 130 highly skilled artisans. The expansion of both the facilities and workforce comes in direct response to the increase in size and volume of the yachts being built by Heesen today. In turn, the level of sophistication and expertise required to produce interiors on this level means more space, more equipment, and more artisans.  Building luxury interior is about handling precious, sometimes irreplaceable materials, and managing a team of highly talented craftsmen. Heesen is one of the very few shipbuilders to have an entire in-house department of specialists. Cabinet-makers, upholsterers, joiners, French polishers, painters, CNC operators, draftsmen, project managers, engineers - the list of people is as long as the list of requirements to create a custom Heesen yacht.  Excellent Dutch craftsmanship and continuous innovation have been the driving force behind the Heesen brand. Having an entire in-house department of interior specialists guarantees consistent quality and custom design creations that spark the imagination of both clients and their designers. At Heesen, there is no such thing as mission impossible. Heavily investing in the acquisition and the training of young talent is the secret behind Heesen’s award-winning interior creations.  Henry Schreur, Managing Director of Heesen Interiors, joins Arthur Brouwer, Heesen CEO in commenting on the expansion: “We look forward to the official opening of the new work space in September and are ready more than ever to continue the tradition of building precious interiors to the highest Dutch quality standards.”


Jarrett Bay Awards Service Milestones

Over twenty anniversary pins were awarded to team members at Jarrett Bay, celebrating service milestones! Jarrett Bay was humbled and grateful that so many have stuck with them through thick and thin and have made the company proud in so many ways. A huge thank you goes out to Brett Styron for his thirty years of service at Jarrett Bay! We look forward to many more years with Brett on the team. Our long-time service manager, Keith Tosto, also received an Aloha Retirement Party. Keith: you will be missed but we wish you a very happy retirement!

Jarrett Bay at Bermuda Triple Crown

Jarrett Bay was well-represented for all 3 legs of the Bermuda Triple Crown, with two teams taking home many awards: Waste Knot and Mama Who. Hull 54, Jarrett Bay 67, Waste Knot:The team placed third overall and won third place release, plus Top Junior Angler at the Bermuda Big Game Classic. The team also won seconnd place overall at the Bermuda Billfish Blast!  Hull 56, Jarrett Bay 77, Mama Who: Lainey Jones won Top Lady Angler in the Bermuda Big Game Classic and second place Lady Angler at the Bermuda Billfish Blast. The team also won thirrd overall at the Bermuda Release Cup!

Jarrett Bay at Hatteras Marlin Club Blue Marline Release Tournament

Hull 18, Doc Fees is on a roll this tournament season. On the heels of the team's success at Big Rock and Cape Fear, they won first place overall at the Hatteras Marlin Club Blue Marlin Release Tournament.


Moonen Heading for a Fresh Start

On the 11th of July Moonen Shipyards has been declared bankrupt by a Dutch court, after its shareholder was found unable to meet its financial obligations.  Since several years, Moonen Shipyards was entirely owned by Mexico’s largest steel manufacturer Altos Hornos de México (AHMSA). During that period several yachts were delivered and Moonen was, thanks to the financial support of AHMSA, a healthy company. This situation changed suddenly last May, when Mr Ancira, chairman of AMHSA, was arrested on the Spanish island of Mallorca, being accused of bribery. Since then all of AHMSA’s bank accounts were frozen, including the one from Moonen. Some of the accounts were unfrozen after a while, but the money tap for the shipyard remained closed. The lack of financial support to pay wages and settle the required payments on the building of Project YN199 on speculation, has led to Moonen declaring bankruptcy.  It is a fact that AMSHA caused financial instability in the past. When in 2015 the steel prices dropped dramatically, Moonen was filed for suspension of payment for a longer period of time. To avoid such an insecure period again, the management of Moonen was already looking for a new investor. That new investor has been found and conversations were at an advanced stage in order to proceed a normal takeover of the shares. Due to the arrest of Mr Ancira and the loss of cash flow, it was necessary to speed up the process with the intended shareholder, and try to avoid a bankruptcy. However, there was hardly any communication possible with the shareholder and finally Moonen Shipyards was no longer able to meet its obligations towards personnel and suppliers thus bankruptcy followed on the 11th of July.  In a way this bankruptcy clears the road for the new Moonen, as the proposed investor shared his wish to fully disconnect from AHMSA after was has occurred last May. Moonen is, via the curator Mr Berendsen from LXA The Law Firm, still in negotiation with the investor and hope that a new Moonen will arise soon. “We have trust in this new investor and have faith in the future of Moonen” says Johan Dubbelman. “Moonen builds perfect yachts, the market in the 30 to 50 meter segment is good and we expect to increase our production. Currently we have one 36m in build. The aim of the new investor is to build 2 to 3 yachts per year. By building on speculation, delivery times are shorter, which is an absolute advantage for future customers.”  “When I look back on last year, I’m proud to see that the whole team at Moonen has successfully pushed our brand into the future. We really were well on our way to becoming more successful. At this moment we are close to entering a new era. I strongly belief in a healthy future for Moonen Yachts in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, as I can rely on a strong and loyal team of employees and good cooperation with our suppliers. Together with our new investor we will take Moonen Yachts to unprecedented new height” says Johan Dubbelman.  The curator is now in charge of handling the bankruptcy and dealing with the interested parties, where the major focus lies on restarting the company soon. It is to be expected that final decisions will be taken within the next few weeks.

Moonen Negotiating New Partnership

Moonen Yachts announces that the company is in an advanced stage of negotiating a strong new partnership. The investor is familiar with the industry and brings an international background of global business.  The vision of this new investor will strongly focus on strengthening the market position and expanding the number of yachts build per year ergo securing sustainable future growth. The new investor is driven by passion about yacht building and interested in the profound reputation of North European yacht building. He envisages on the strong pedigree of Moonen Yachts as a signature superyacht builder. Quality, comfort and timeless designs are key and of course the beauty of the Moonen yachts.  Johan Dubbelman, CEO of Moonen Yachts, says: “I see the cooperation with the proposed investor as a very positive development and a perfect opportunity to expand. By teaming up with this reputable investor, we can secure future growth, not in length – as we remain in the 30 to 50 meter segment – but in numbers. This impulse matches the companies’ strategy and is completely in line with future perspectives.”


Pershing Sensation in Ibiza

Passion and exclusiveness were the main ingredients of Sunset Thrills, the event celebrating the Pershing world, staged on the island of Ibiza on 29 and 30 June. Organized by Pershing in partnership with the luxury hotel 7Pines Resort in Ibiza, it gave all the brand’s yacht owners the unique opportunity to live that unmistakable thrill, with its mixture of adrenalin, coolness and fun.  The stunning setting for the evening of Saturday, 29 June, was the new Pershing Yacht Terrace, where Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, and the owner of 7Pines Resort have officially opened Pershing season on the Balearic Islands. Perched on a cliff, with a spectacular view of the enchanting rocky island of Es Vedrà, the Terrace took everyone's breath away. Designed in June 2018, this is the first lounge in the world created by Pershing architects and designers reflecting the style and qualities that make the range unique. From sunset until late into the night, after an exclusive aperitif and dinner, over 400 guests were enchanted by a video mapping show, surrounded by a breathtaking view of the open sea and 10 Pershing yachts anchored in front of the 7Pines Resort.  The exclusive and glamorous night was followed by a day charged with passion and adrenalin. On Sunday, 30 June, from the first glimmer of dawn, the yacht owners participated in a host of activities, with racing, test sails and plenty of fun – in perfect Pershing style. From the majestic Pershing 108 to the sleek Pershing 5X, including the latest addition, the 8X, each yacht in Ibiza has become the symbol of the incredible passion shared by Pershing owners worldwide who love the sea and the bursts of adrenalin they get from their yachts acceleration and turning performances. At the end of the water-based activities, Sunset Thrills ended with a spectacular parade of all the yachts as they returned to the 7Pines Resort after sailing around the island of Es Vedrà.  Alongside the 7Pines Resort, other contributors who made the experience even more electrifying were: Seabob, who offered the opportunity to perform tests with the latest Pershing Limited Edition products and created gifts for the guests; Marina Ibiza, who offered yacht owners vouchers for free mooring for two nights; Bulgari, who gave each yacht owner a bouquet of flowers and the book Bulgari Y Roma; Videoworks, who supplied a customised iPad and offered guests the opportunity to experience Music Hull, the exclusive audio system installed on Pershing 8X for listening to music underwater; Nautibuoys Marine, who provided the platforms for water activities; and Foglizzo Leather, who created some exclusive leather items for the guests.

Riva Brings Legacy in Sardinia

After last season’s success, Riva brings its Riva Brand Experience back to Waterfront Costa Smeralda, a unique and charming location designed by architect Gio Pagani. It is welcoming the biggest international luxury brands and most enviable yachts to the stunning environs of the Old Port in Porto Cervo.  Riva’s pop-up boutique opened its doors on 6 July for the Grand Opening of Waterfront Costa Smeralda, among prestigious brands such as Jaguar Land Rover, Dolce&Gabbana, and De Grisogono, to bring you the excitement of an exclusive shopping experience filled with glamour and style.  There is an extensive and sophisticated range of Riva products available for visitors, including designer items for home decor, collection pieces, clothing and accessories, high-tech items, and unique gift ideas. This is an elegant and sophisticated collection, which will delight family and friends alike, whilst adhering to the inspirational philosophy of “Riva inside, inside Riva”. Every item from the Riva Brand Experience collection represents a piece of treasure endowed with timeless value. They stand out thanks to their high-quality materials and amazing attention to detail, which perfectly sum up the 177 years of excellence and craftsmanship behind them.

Riva Privee in Formentera

For those who are searching for unique atmospheres and unforgettable experiences, the trendy new destination of the Balearic Islands is the Riva Privée at the restaurant “Molo 47” in Formentera. A sophisticated and elegant space where you can explore all the values and heritage of the most exclusive and desired brand in yachting.  Following the recent opening of the new Riva Lounge and Privée in Croatia at the Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel and Spa in Opatija, the first Riva Privée has been inaugurated in Formentera, the new “place to be” on the island, where the style of the Riva legend blends with a relaxed and informal ambiance. Riva Privée at “Molo 47” in Formentera has a special charm, not only for yachting enthusiasts but also for those who seek an experience of elite luxury in one of the finest islands in the Mediterranean.  The architectural project of Riva Privée in Formentera is inspired by the waves of the sea. Particular care was given to the concept of the light design, where light becomes the protagonist, with a fascinating play of shadows thanks to the clever arrangement of the curtains. All the geometries of Riva Privée @ Molo 47 evoke the soft curves of the mythical Riva yachts. The interior design also recalls the unique details of the vessels, like the aquamarine colored cushions, the chrome, the steel, and the lacquered mahogany reminiscent of the iconic yachts and the 1950s Dolce Vita style, immediately transporting guests into the magic of the Riva legend.  Riva Privée, located in the elegant port of Formentera, is the result of the encounter between Riva and Molo 47, the restaurant opened in 2017 by Chef Antonio d’Angelo, who chose to embrace the Riva Destination concept to give his guests an unforgettable atmosphere. Here, the excellent culinary proposals and sense of relaxation coexist in the spirit of conviviality. The cuisine of Molo 47 is always based on simple ingredients, masterfully combined to create unique tasting experiences: an encounter between Italian ingredients and techniques alternating with particular inspiration and skill with those of Japanese culture. Two souls masterfully enhanced and continuously reinterpreted and innovated.  The new Riva Privée in Formentera is one of the sought-after Riva Destinations present in some of the most prestigious locations (Monaco at the Yacht Club, Venice at Gritti Hotel, Milan at Garage Italia, Opatija at Ikador Luxury Boutique Hotel & SPA in Croatia, Mykonos - Nammos Beach in Greece, Palm Beach in the U.S., Lake Iseo). In each location, the Riva image blends perfectly with the spirit of the place, highlighting its distinctive features, creating a true collection of Riva Lounges or Privées, all one of a kind and not to be missed.


Sabre Yachts Celebrating Fifty Years

Sabre Yachts is celebrating 50 years of building sailing and motor yachts that are "Crafted in the Maine Tradition!" The next year will feature customer events, boat show happy hours, and associate celebrations.  Each month, for the next year, we will release an interview with the people who helped make Sabre Yachts the success it is today, with the first interview featuring Sabre's founders, Roger and Charlie Hewson.  Sabre is also re-branding for its 50th Anniversary, and the logo will be featured on ther website, all digital content, and all yachts built in the 2020 model year.  To the owners: Save the date for the next Sabre and Back Cove Rendezvous, which will take place June 17-20, 2020 in Portland, Maine! The event will include a lobster bake dinner on the evening of June 19th in celebration of Sabre's 50th Anniversary.


Sanlorenzo Nominate New CEO for the Americas

Sanlorenzo, one of the world's leading yacht and superyacht manufacturers, is delighted to announce the appointment of Marco Segato as the new CEO of Sanlorenzo Americas, the branch that has over the last ten years acted as an embassy for the brand and has aided in the expansion and bolstering of Sanlorenzo in North, Central and South America.  Marco Segato, formerly Vice President of Sales of Sanlorenzo Americas since 2014, having previously held important positions in the field of strategic consulting and business development and having a great wealth of experience in the boating sector to his name, was additionally chosen to become shareholder of the US company to further build upon and develop the growth achieved by Sanlorenzo Americas. This meeting the new challenges offered by this strategic market.  Sanlorenzo Americas, based in Fort Lauderdale and New York leads a sales network that includes Perù, Venezuela, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Canada, making itself the only reference point in the US for shipowners who wish to build their own custom-built Sanlorenzo yacht, the result of unparalleled attention to minute detail and scrupulous selection of materials, in line with local regulations and out of respect for American culture and style, of which Sanlorenzo has an in depth knowledge.  In fact, the Sanlorenzo Americas team of experts follows each customer at every step, from the first concept to the completion of an individual project, perfectly customized, in which the personality, tastes and lifestyle of each owner are clearly visible.

Sanlorenzo Naviganti Exhibition

Sanlorenzo, one of the world's leading producers of yachts and superyachts, in conjunction with Biennale Arte 2019, is proud to present the “Naviganti exhibition. A journey into Sanlorenzo's shipyards" on display from 31 August to 02 November at the Casa dei Tre Oci, on Giudecca island in Venice. Conceived as a true first hand look at what's involved in the production process at our shipyards, the exhibition is to feature more than 30 black and white images by photographer Silvano Pupella, who uses his lens to give us a visual tale of the harmony between craftsmanship and technology that has over the last 60 years made Sanlorenzo a veritable nautical excellence. The evocative photographic portfolio which was put together within the La Spezia shipyard, reveals how each Sanlorenzo superyacht is the result of a complex, transversal and innovative project: each boat over 40 meters long, comes to life from the hull, forged in metal like some work of art, and on through the work of skilled local artisans who take the greatest of care with every little detail, making each pieace unique and special, thereby assuring the desired reaction from the owner every time. The photos of Silvano Pupella thus recount the work of these highly skilled artisans whose masterful craftsmanship makes these sophisticated elegant yachts what they are, as if they were being crafted in a Renaissance workshop. His decisive black and white, introducing us at the initial production stages of the steel superyachts, is able to excite enhancing the hidden charm and the intrinsic beauty of the unfinished products. The spatial expansions which Sanlorenzo succeeded in adding to his projects, as these images state most clearly, amaze and even overturn the perception of the limit that one always has on board these self-propelled jewels. Images that, documenting the various preparatory stages of the metal hulls, can perfectly relate the atmosphere of this place full not only of technology but also of precious and irreplaceable practicality.

Sanlorenzo Waterfront Costa Smeralda

Waterfront Costa Smeralda is much more than a luxury temporary store, it is a truly elegant and charming showroom that - as the name suggests - comes to life in front of the sea in summer and becomes home to world-famous brands, new events and top prestigious atelier, where every space is designed both to amaze and entertain. For the second year running Sanlorenzo has created its own special space there, designed by the Art Director Piero Lissoni, specifically to offer all boating enthusiasts the opportunity to get to know and come face to face with the sophisticated and tailor-made world that is our shipyard. The Sanlorenzo atelier creates an environment that redefines the concept of elegance through minimalist aesthetics, a brand ambassador that embodies the company's haute-couture spirit and the scrupulous attention to detail and service that has always set it apart from the rest. An islet of great refinement that fits perfectly into the beautiful scenery, between crystal clear sea and fine beaches, every year important owners of prestigious yachts from all over the Mediterranean choose the Costa Smeralda as a stop-over on their summer trips. Sanlorenzo thus returns to Waterfront to propose a reference point in the Costa Smeralda for clients and admirers of the custom yacht brand who wish to become part of the Sanlorenzo community, and begin their own custom yacht building journey with the company. Waterfront Costa Smeralda is open to the public all summer until the 7th of September and will include 12 pop-up stores, 5 exhibition areas and a stunning lounge area, made so thanks to the evocative setting of the most prestigious Mediterranean yachts. A walk of unique charm that takes us along the characteristic Porto Vecchio quayside and will also be housing exclusive brands such as BMW, Bentley, De Grisogono, Dolce & Gabbana and Technogym all of whom will be exhibiting their products there for fashion and jewellery enthusiasts, automobiles and prestigious yachts and fitness equipment. Perfectly set in one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, surrounded by marvellous glimpses of nature and water of breathtaking color, Waterfront Costa Smeralda continues to amaze with its refined design and top quality contents, the ideal setting for Sanlorenzo to relate it's history of craftsmanship and avant-guard spirit that have allowed it to reach the top in the world of yachts and superyacht production.


Sunreef Welcomes Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal has recently commissioned an 80 Sunreef Power catamaran with Sunreef Yachts. An avid multihull enthusiast, the international tennis superstar has selected the shipyard’s latest motor yacht model, having visited and chartered Sunreef Yachts’ catamarans in the past. With 82 titles overall including 18 Grand Slam victories as well as a record 34 ATP Tour Masters 1000 titles, Rafael Nadal is one of the world’s most renowned athletes. His fully-customized catamaran is due for delivery in 2020.  The first unit from the 80 Sunreef Power range is to premiere in September 2019 at the Cannes Yachting Festival. This luxury multihull is a pedigree motor yacht, blending seaworthiness and supreme comfort for worldwide navigation.


Sunseeker One Hundredth Manhattan 52

Sunseeker International is celebrating the production of 100 Manhattan 52s today, a very important milestone for the fastest selling model in the company’s history. The talented Sunseeker team behind the award-winning Manhattan 52, including colleagues from design, build, engineering and the executive team, all joined together to mark this special achievement.  Since her introduction at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2016, the Manhattan 52 set a new industry benchmark for the smaller flybridge format and a new design direction for the Manhattan range.  In 2017, the Manhattan 52 won the highly-coveted ‘Best flybridge under 55ft’ award at the Motor Boat of the Year Awards and the ‘Most Innovative On-Board Design Solution’ for its Beach Club Concept at the IBI Metstrade Boat Builder Awards.  Remaining hugely-popular with customers ever since, the model is designed to maximise entertainment options, light and living space throughout. Its hull incorporates unparalleled amounts of curved glass to emphasise its sleek lines – truly bringing the outside in.  The unique layout of the main deck makes the Manhattan 52 the perfect boat for entertaining in style; with a strong focus on creating fun and easy to use sociable spaces. From the generous saloon and upper aft galley, through to the social seating at the helm, this exceptional layout allows the owner and guests to move effortlessly between entertaining spaces.  The Manhattan 52 enables its owner to enjoy the sumptuous space the open layout provides, showcasing the wonderfully well-equipped bathing platform and transom area that can be converted into a mini beach club - an unrivalled feature for a boat in this class and now copied by much of the industry. This area offers an inviting space for family and friends to enjoy the optional built-in barbecue, overhead shower and fold down transom seating.  A standout feature that truly sets the Manhattan 52 apart from its peers is the glass cockpit/galley window that retracts electrically which alongside the bi-fold saloon doors, creates an exceptional inside/outside environment.  Thanks to the galley being situated on the main deck, there is space for three very large cabins below. The master cabin is a real standout feature for a boat of this size, with full height headroom all the way around the bed demonstrating yet again the attention Sunseeker has given to creating exceptional living spaces. Interior fabric and décor selections remain peerless, delivering a quality that is unprecedented; a reputation that is unmatched.  Powered by Volvo Penta D11-725 engines on shaft drive or Volvo Penta IPS-950, the Manhattan 52 can cruise comfortably at 24 knots with a cruising range of 250 nautical miles or achieve an exhilarating 33 knots at full throttle.  Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International, said: "We are thrilled to reach such an important production milestone with the Manhattan 52, a model which remains our fastest selling model in Sunseeker history. The model has certainly hit a sweet spot with our customers, and we are delighted to have such a strong position in a very important segment of the market. This milestone underlines our commitment to producing an unrivalled portfolio of luxury performance motor yachts from 38-161 ft.”


Viking Sea Trial Event in September

The Viking Yacht Company is gearing up for our annual sea trial event this September 11 in Atlantic City. The team is excited to show off a pair of the newest introductions to the Viking Billfish series as well as Valhalla Boatworks, our new breed of high-performance center consoles. The Viking 38 Open Billfish and 46 Billfish as well as Valhalla Boatworks' V-33, V-37 and V-41 will all be available for sea trialing. The Viking fleet will be on hand as well.

Viking at Texas Billfish Classic

Done Deal, Jon Gonsoulin's Viking 70, topped the leader board again. With Captain Jason Buck at the helm, angler Wilks Hammock released six blue marlin and one white, solidifying an overall win and claiming Top Angler of the Texas Billfish Classic. In 2nd Place Overall was David Denbow's Viking 62 Amigo, captained by Brad Schoenfeld. David took Second Place Angler with three blue marlin releases, a 643-pound blue marlin and a 26-pound dolphin. Sean Strakos, on Marty Strakos' Viking 61 Suthern's Pride, won the wahoo division with a 48-pound 'hoo. In 2nd Place was Ben Brooks, aboard the Viking 48 High Noon, with a 34.5-pound fish. Deez Nautz, a Viking 56, took 3rd Place Tuna with a 43-pound yellowfin and 3rd Place Dolphin with a 27.5-pound catch.

Viking at Mantauk Canyon Challenge

Mark Burton's Viking 48 Sound Wave took 2nd Place Heaviest Tuna with a 198.7-pound bigeye. Sound Wave also claimed the 2nd Place Yellowfin with a 69.4-pound tuna. Alexa Ann, Kevin Kallmeyer's Viking 55, took 2nd Place Top-Three Yellowfin and also weighed the 2nd Place Albacore at 38.2 pounds. Never Give Up, a Viking 48 owned by Glenn McCarty, brought a 23.3-pound mahi to the scale which won that category. The Harriet Ball Top Lady Angler award was presented to Bridget Hansen (above) fishing on Peter Feld's Viking 72 Bondi. Matt Hansen, aboard Carmine Zoccolillo's Viking 52 Canyon Bound, was the Top Junior Angler.

Viking at Bermuda Billfish Release Cup

Big congratulations to Avery Holgerson. Avery, fishing on her proud grandfather Frank Rodriguez's Viking 92 Fa La Me, took the title of Bermuda Billfish Release Cup Top Angler, Top Lady Angler and Top Junior Angler at just 13-years-old. She battled a blue marlin, estimated at 500 pounds, for a clean release then followed up with a white marlin. This put Fa La Me, with Captain Rob Moore at the wheel, as the 1st Place Team. "We are all so excited for her," gushed Frank.  Angler Scott Spaulding put Michael Farrens' Viking 62 Just A Dog on the board with a blue release to take 2nd Place Team.

Viking at Offshore Showdown

David Johnson's Viking 58 JT took 3rd Place Overall and 3rd Place Blue Marlin Release based on time at the Offshore Showdown. Tanner Johnson, David's son, released the blue on the final fishing day. Above left to right Tanner Johnson, Connor Johnson, George Robinson and David Johnson. A Viking 72 owned by Dave Anderson, claimed Most Points White Marlin with three releases. Third Place White Marlin went to Marty Judge and his team on the Viking 64.  Judge. Judge angler Mitch Hand weighed a 15-pound dolphin which tied for 1st Place alongside the 15-pounder Matt Lopez also weighed. Matt fished on Mike Rich's Viking 62 Business. In its 3rd year, the Offshore Showdown mixes friends, family, fun and fishing. While every angler has his eye on the prize, there are plenty of parties and activities to keep the event a crowd-pleaser.

Viking Key West Challenge 2020

The party starts on Wednesday, April 15 so book your slip now! The Viking Key West Challenge, presented by Christi Insurance and Travelers, is four days of fun in the sun with friends, family and fishing. Two fishing days are surrounded by a barbecue lay day pool party, kids dock tournament, bar crawl poker run, al fresco dining and lots of prizes and giveaways.


Wally at Phi Beach in Costa Smeralda Sardinia

Wally partners with the chic Mediterranean venue by providing a Wallytender to serve as an exclusive concierge boat for the summer season. Sardinia is a hugely popular cruising destination for owners of Wally yachts, both sail and power. With this in mind, the brand has teamed up with one of the region’s most exclusive party venues: Phi Beach on Sardinia’s stunning Costa Smeralda attracts yacht owners, UHNWIs and high-end holidaymakers from all over the world each summer. Wally, part of the Ferretti Group the most successful conglomerate of the yachting industry, has partnered with the Mediterranean venue – voted by The New York Times and Vanity Fair as one of Europe’s top summer venues – by making a Wallytender available for the cruising season to serve as an exclusive concierge boat for transferring VIPs to the club from locations such as Porto Cervo and the islands of the archipelago of La Maddalena. “Wally is the perfect yachting partner for Phi Beach in terms of both brand image and client base,” says Stefano de Vivo, CCO of Ferretti Group and Managing Director of Wally. “I don’t think you’ll find a yacht owner in the Costa Smeralda who’s not visited the venue at least once. Intimate, exclusive and impressive, it’s a magical place that rocks in the summer!” “Winning partnerships are those created by players that share the same objectives, the same creative spirit and the same concept of beauty, “ says Luciano Guidi, CEO of Medex Srl and owner of Phi Beach. “For this reason, I’m especially proud to be able to collaborate with a brand such as Wally that is internationally recognised as the creator of some of the most beautiful boats in the world. In particular, a Wallytender represents dynamism, functionality and perfection – concepts that also define Phi Beach and Ferretti Group.” In addition to the Wallytender, there is a selection of cocktails named in honour of Wally and Wally branding appears throughout the venue, from the main dance floor and seaview terraces to video projections. There is also on display a model of the brand new 48 Wallytender, the first joint product from Wally and Ferretti Group, which will make its international debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September.

Wider Shipyard New Chapter

Wider is extremely pleased to announce that the Monegasque group Nautical Hybrid Tech, headed by Marcello Maggi; Zepter Group and Hopafi Holding Srl have acquired the entire ownership of the company, signing the beginning of a new era for Wider and many exciting news to be unveiled in the near future. Led by Marcello Maggi, a prominent player in the nautical industry for more than thirty0 years, Wider will boost its leadership in the green energy yachting. The new group of investors will contribute to accelerate the company growth and eventually list it in the stock exchange within three years.  Marcello Maggi steps in as President and Sales and Marketing Director and will be based in the Monaco office. Born in Ancona, but living for more than 20 years in Montecarlo, he has always been an ambassador of Italian shipyards, strategically developing companies like ISA, which he co-founded in 2001, and CRN.  Zepter Group has an ample spectrum of activities and markets but its name has always been associated with high standards, technological research and exclusivity. Zepter Group owns companies as Swisso Logical, Bioptron and Tesla Hyperlight Optics.  Hopafi Holding, the investment vehicle of the Giovannetti Family, controls two publicly listed companies in Italy and Eastern Europe and holds interests in several companies related to energy and sustainability.  Wider made its mark on the industry with the cutting-edge technology of Wider 42 and 32 and established itself with the two multi awarded superyachts Wider 150 and 165, pioneering the industry of hybrid and green energy mega yachting. Wider 150 has been the forerunner of the serial hybrid propulsion system applied on luxury superyachts and won multiple awards around the globe, followed by Wider 165 which, not only lived up to all the expectations but also presents multiple features, unique in her competitive set, such as a 3-person submersible, a 14m seawater swimming pool and a touch and go helipad. Both vessels set new records with RINA, obtaining a perfect score for levels of sound and vibration holding a class notation of COMF (Y) 100/100, never assigned before on motor yachts. RINA also bestowed upon them the RINA Platinum Green Plus Award for their green credentials.  “I am very thrilled to take this new challenge and honored to be part of the Wider team.” – says Marcello Maggi, Wider President – “We are aiming to continue the leadership in hybrid motor yachting, boosting innovation and research in all the yachts to come. Wider will be working in a niche segment and focusing on quality and custom-built hybrid motor yachts. One of the main reason for proceeding with the acquisition was the incredibly high level of management team and staff, besides the extraordinary performance of the yachts in term of comfort, noise, vibration and their eco-friendly soul.”  Wider will be focusing on aluminum hybrid vessels and concluded a license agreement with the German shipyard Lloyd Werft for hybrid yachts over 250’ that will be produced in Bremerhaven, confirming and consolidating the good relationship between the two brands.

July 30, 2019

Failed Super Yacht Attack in Corsica

On Tuesday July 30 in the morning, a 43-year-old resident of Corsica armed with a knife boarded the 41 metre super yacht Legenda. Chartering Russian nationalities, m/y Legenda was located less to one nautical mile away from the Port of Taverna in the North East side of Corsica. The crew and guests disarmed the 43 year old man who was then arrested and taken to the Police office in South Corsica for questions.  Piracy and yacht attacks are very rare in the Med but unfortunately a couple news do show out every season.
Motor Yacht Legenda is a Mondomarine 41 meters build in 2009 to a design of Cor D.Rover and sold to her current ownership in 2014. Legenda can accommodate twelve guests in six cabins, and is powered by twin MTU 2250hp which give a top speed of nineteen knots and a cruise of fourteen.

New Model: Monte Carlo 52

Beneteau present the new Monte Carlo 52, what should be a replacement model for the MC5 series.  The new Monte Carlo 52 is again a design from Nuvolari Lenard, the Italian duo who are responsible for all Monte Carlo Yachts and new Beneteau Flyer series.  The Monte Carlo 52 unlike previous MC series returns back to basics and is a traditional motor yacht from fore to aft aimed at making the best  use of spaces both outside and inside.  The interior layout will come from long time Beneteau collaborator Andreani who presents a main deck with astern galley, sofa with lounge and or dinette use, chaise lounge to port and helm station to port side.  The lower deck will offer a full beam midships master suite, guest cabin to starboard, VIP suite forward, and an aft crew cabin.  Worth to note are the huge spaces on the flybridge of the Monte Carlo 52 which should make one of the most spacious in the sixteen meter size category.  The Monte Carlo 52 will be powered by twin Volvo 435hp engines and an option for the new 480hp units.  These engines allow for a top speed up to 27 knots and a cruise of 22 knots which gives a range of only 180 nautical miles.  Discreet numbers to what is a well thought out cruising motor yacht.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.33 m (53.7ft)
Hull Length - 14.3 m
Beam - 4.62 m
Draft - 1.20 m
Displacement - 14988 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 650 l
Water Capacity - 2 x 200 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, one crew cabin berth aft
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp, 480hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives
Speed - 27 knots max 22 knots cruise with Volvo 435hp
Range - 180 nm at cruise
Hull Shape - modified Vee with 15 degrees deadrise aft
Construction -  infusion molding, monolithic hull bottom with polyester resin and glass fiber, and balsa cored above the water line
Project - Nuvolari Lenard exterior lines, Andrea Migali from Micad naval architecture, and Andreani interior layout
Certification - CE B/C 12  

July 29, 2019

Project: Apreamare Gozzo 35

Apreamare, a company which has always been careful about the needs of the market, is never tired of learning from its clients and it is for them that Gozzo 35 was born. This is a new version of the Gozzo Sorrentino that answers the modern styles of life, it looks at the Mediterranean charm without leaving behind North Europe and Far East’s markets and is proposed as an optimal solution even for the ones who wants to offer a charter service that distinguish itself in terms of comfort and exclusivity.  The main point will be the hull by Marine Design, which has already taken part of many Apreamare successful models. The particular feature of this new project is the possibility to install an engine type both in line shaft with a power from 270 to 320hp, and with stern drive of 230 to 320hp.  Furthermore, there are two other versions: the first one with a single engine and the second with hybrid propulsion.  A remarkable effort has been made to develop the boat concept by the architect Marco Casali, who added value to the outdoor spaces of the deck in cooperation with Cataldo Aprea. Both architect and company chairman paid great attention to design the hull with lines that puts it in a more contemporary context while respecting the aesthetic standards of the Gozzo Sorrentino. Apreamare Gozzo 35 is a walk-around boat equipped with a comfy couch at stern with a table that manage to organize enjoyable outside dinner. The walkways are wide and safe thanks to the maximum beam of three and half meters. and a large sunbathing zone with opposed seats is situated at bow. The boat is provided with a T-Top that is used as a base for a kitchen furniture that could be fitted out either with a sink, a barbecue or a hob, a fridge and an ice-maker.  Gozzo 35 lower cabin deck offers an open space cabin with a double bed at bow, wardrobes and furniture with leather inserts and a detached bathroom with a big shower. The style of the interiors recalls the brightness of the Mediterranean architectures and there is the possibility for the owners to personalize the colors of the leathers and the type of woods.  The first Gozzo Apreamare 35 will be launched in Spring 2020 in the historic frame of Sorrento.

July 28, 2019

Super Yacht Oceans Five Sinking Eight Miles from Sardinia

Super Yacht Oceans Five has capsized off Villasimius near Cagliari in Sardinia eight nautical miles away from Capo Carbonara.  Apparently the super yachts hit something and started to have water coming in from one of its propeller lines, along with problems to one of its engine and rudder.  The crew of five where saved by passing nearby super yacht M/Y Silver Dream a 43 meter 2003 build Warren Yachts and then transported by the Italian Coast Guard to Villasimius marina.  The super yacht was still drifting submerged in capsized form as pictured above and the ownership declared it started operation on recovery procedure, made very difficult on the day due to the Westerly Force Six Beaufort wind and rough seas.
M/Y Oceans Five was the second hull of Dreamline DL30 which launched this Spring 2019.  The DL30 was launched in 2018 with exterior from Enrico Gobbi of Team for Design, and a fast displacement hull by the Arrabito studio.  The DL30 is powered with Cats or Man engines of 1920hp or with 1200hp engines in the Navetta long range platform. 

July 27, 2019

New Model: Heesen 56m YN 18556

Heesen has launched the new 56 meter YN 18556 previously known as Project Neptune, and named as M/Y Galvas.  Jonny Horsfield of British firm H2 penned her profile. Based on Heesen’s engineering platform for the 55m FDHF Steel Class, YN 18556 sports an innovative design, which retains the Heesen family look and feel but exudes the desire to create an aesthetically unique yacht.  With a Gross Tonnage of 770GT, the yacht accommodates twelve guests in six luxurious staterooms. British design studio Reymond Langton has created an elegant and refined interior design comprising custom artworks by DKT that are peppered throughout the yacht.  Two MTU 1340hp diesel engines coupled with the ultra-efficient FDHF steel hull allowed Galvas to exceed her top speed of 15.5 knots during sea trials. At a cruising speed of 13 knots, she has a range of 3,100 nautical miles. YN 18556 is the second yacht in Heesen’s fleet to comply with the latest emissions regulations thanks to an SCR catalytic system that reduces NOx exhaust emissions. The new Heesen 56 meter is Lloyds commercial yachts compliant. Following successful rigorous tests in the North Sea, she is now on her way to the Mediterranean.  This new Heesen 56m is a shining example of the design freedom and performance capabilities made available to clients who opt for one of Heesen’s proven engineering platforms. This choice provides the opportunity to express creativity in the exterior lines, paired with a layout that perfectly complements an individual lifestyle, and completed by an interior design that both reflects and enhances an owner’s taste and choice.
Technical Data:
LOA - 56.20 m (184.4ft)
Beam - 9.60 m
Displacement - 770 t
Accommodation - twelve guests in six cabins, thirteen crew in seven cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 8v4000M63 1340hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 15 knots max 13 knots cruise
Range - 3100 nm at 13 knots
Project - John Horsfielf from H2 exterior, Raymond Langton interior
Certification - Lloyds 100 A1 SSC LMC LY3 IMO Tier III

July 26, 2019

Sunseeker Yacht Catches Fire at Fort Lauderdale Yacht Yard

A 2001 nineteen meter Sunseeker motor yacht went ablaze at the dry dock facility of 2200 Marina Bay Drive in Fort Lauderdale at around 1100 hours of the morning of Friday 26 July 2019.  Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue dispatched sixty fire fighters to the scene, taking them ten minutes to control the blaze and another thirty minutes to extinguish it. The Sunseeker yacht was reported as having workers onboard when the fire started, with all quickly getting off the yacht unharmed.  After the fire the yacht was deemed a total loss, as the majority of its upper structure sustained important burning damages, with a nearby smaller boat also suffering fire burn damages.   The cause of the fire are under investigation.
This 2001 Sunseeker is a 64 Manhattan model, as designed by Don Shead and John Braithwaithe.  The 64 Manhattan offered a three double cabins layout with a midships full beam owners stateroom lower deck layout, with a crew cabin for two aft.  An innovative feature and ahead of its time in the 64 Manhattan was the astern galley layout of the main deck.  Replacing the 62 Manhattan in 99 the 64 Manhattan evolved into the Mk.II version with a revised stern featuring an up-down bathing platform in 2003, and was replaced by the 66 Manhattan in 2005.

Project: ISA Yachts Super Sportivo 100 GTO

ISA Yachts a brand of Palumbo Superyachts, is pleased to announce the sale to a European customer for a new ISA Super Sportivo 100 GTO model. Designed by the skillful hand of architect Marco Casali of Too Design, performance is the main ingredient of what is bound to be one of the fastest models available on the market today. In fact, powered with three 2000hp engines the 100 GTO will be capable of reaching a maximum speed of fifty knots. To ensure maximum lightness and strength, hull and superstructure will be built with epoxy based vinylester resin, carbon fiber and Kevlar reinforcements. Delivery is scheduled for 2020 and the vessel will be built at the Ancona shipyard.

July 25, 2019

New Model: Riviera 545 SUV

Riviera present the new 545 SUV replacing the 525 SUV, and powered with twin Volvo 625hp and or optional 725hp.  Very similar on the outside and nearly identical on the outside and main deck configuration the new 545 difference will come inside in the lower deck with a full-beam master suite offering an exceptional amount of space and storage, king-sized walk-around bed, L-shaped lounge to starboard, bureau and large hanging wardrobe to port, plus a generous en-suite bathroom equipped with designer fittings. Being amidships, the suite enjoys optimum stability and quietness, while topside windows to both port and starboard afford unimpeded water views.  Guests or family members are pampered with an elegantly appointed forward VIP stateroom, and a starboard twin cabin with bunk berths, plus a day head with glass shower recess and stylish vanity.  The cockpit is well configured for fishing and water sports, along with outdoor entertaining. It offers fixed transom seating as well as a three person mezzanine lounge to port. A double barbecue unit resides to starboard on the mezzanine, adjacent to the saloon entry for easy access back-and-forth to the aft-placed galley and cocktail cabinet.  U-shaped and highly functional, the aft galley is a gourmet chef’s delight with a solid surface bench top, electric cook-top, convection microwave oven and an optional drawer dishwasher within handy reach of the stainless-steel sink.  The 545 SUV’s rear bulkhead opens to the cockpit via an awning window comprising tinted, tempered glass framed in polished stainless steel. Sliding windows on both sides of the saloon and two large overhead sunroofs ensure fresh air and natural light invigorate the space.  There’s an equally stunning view for the driver and passenger through the large windscreen. Riviera’s designers have placed the wheel almost on the center-line for superb vision, separating the helm’s twin pedestal seats to allow easy access.  Guests can also immerse themselves in the driving experience from the L-shaped lounge to port, just aft of the helm. It has a hi-lo dining table, while a three-seat lounge resides to starboard. The latter has a removable center seat that becomes an ottoman for additional dining seating. A fold-out table then extends the dinner party if needed. Engine technicians need never enter the yacht’s interior as engine room access is provided through a strut-assisted hatch just aft of the saloon door. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 17.60 m (57.9ft)
Hull Length - 16.15 m
Beam - 5.01 m
Draft - 1.11 m
Displacement - 23885 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 3500 l
Water Capacity - 800 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 625hp, D11 725hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives
Certification - ISO 8666 for data