December 6, 2022

New Model: Sessa C47

Sessa present the new C47, a fully enclosed hard top coupe which shares hull and most of the lines with the upcoming Fly 47 model with a slightly different upper structure.  Unlike some other sport cruisers of the segment who share flybridge sport cruiser platforms the C47 still looks sleek in its hard-top version, and it actually looks like it was made this way. Rightly so Sessa calls the C47 dynamic sport which is totally correct, especially when one notes its practical side from the yacht like walk around deck, to its three cabins interior, and aft galley layout on the main deck.  The Sessa C47 is standard powered by twin Volvo 380hp, or optional 440hp and or 480hp engines with IPS pod propulsion.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.27 m (46.8ft)
Hull Length - 12.54 m
Beam - 4.39 m
Draft - 1.08 m
Displacement - 13,600 kg dry, 16,500 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 636 l
Water Capacity - 560 l
Max Persons - twelve
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 380hp, optional D6 440hp, D6 480hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives
Hull Shape - modified medium Vee with fourteen degrees deadrise aft
Certification - CE B

December 5, 2022

Project: Cayman 540WA

Following the success Cayman is having with its 400WA model, the Italian builder is presenting a new bigger seventeen meter 540WA.  Like all recent Cayman the 540WA is a project of Ferragni, who presented a sleek looking exterior and useable deck from fore to aft.  The central dinette and galley are spacious as you can get in this size, with a maximum beam of five meters, and all this can be expanded aft with the opening bulkheads which increase this area space by about twenty percent.  Below deck the Cayman 540WA presents itself as a cruising yacht, with three double cabins, master stateroom forward, two shower heads layout.  In between the cabins is an L-shaped saloon.  A crew cabin is located midships in between the cabins and engine room.  The Cayman 540WA is to be powered by twin Volvo 480hp, or optional 610hp both with IPS pod drives.  An outboard option of triple 600hp Mercury with hidden outboards under the aft sun-pad will also be available.    

December 4, 2022

New Launch: CRN 60m hull. 141

A new full-custom CRN superyacht was launched on third September at the Ferretti Group CRN Superyacht Yard in Ancona. Title m/y Comfortably Numb the CRN 141 Project is the latest work of art to be christened in Ancona. At sixty metres long hull number 141 blends CRN’s design and build expertise with the experience and creativity of Italian architecture studio Nuvolari Lenard, who developed the interior and exterior concept. The result is a fully bespoke super yacht spanning five decks and accommodating up to twelve guests and thirteen crew in comfort. Made entirely of aluminium, the CRN M/Y 141 is a superyacht with a striking sense of style. She stands out for her futuristic technology, her ground breaking innovation and her extremely dynamic external lines a study in taut poise and fluid power. CRN 60m hull. 141 is powered by twin MTU 5486hp engine which combined to its fast displacement hull shape reaches 29 knots top speed.  A perfect fusion of ideas, expertise and professional excellence, this new sixty-metre beauty is the fullest expression of CRN’s hallmark culture and identity, a triumph of creativity, supreme innovation and total dedication to the client. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 60.33 m (197.9ft)
Beam - 10.55 m
Draft - 2.4 m
Displacement - 1060 gt *volume
Accommodation - twelve guests in six cabins, thirteen crew in seven cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 20V 4000 M93L 5846hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 29 knots max 21 knots cruise
Hull Shape - fast displacement
Construction - aluminium
Project - Nuvolari Lenard inerior and exterior
Certification - ABS

December 3, 2022

Project: Sunseeker Ocean 460

The Sunseeker Ocean 460 is a tri-deck yacht project with a round-bilge semi-displacement hull. Whilst part of the Ocean range of models, it is also a superyacht, the first Sunseeker to feature a vertical bow and with a beam of over nine meters she has 25% more interior volume than her sister ship the 131 Yacht, thus paving the way for a completely new design philosophy for the next generation of superyachts coming from Poole. Rather than using the boat’s length within its model name, the Ocean 460 references its gross tonnage figure, the measurement of a yachts interior volume. While this is a new naming convention for Sunseeker, it truly captures why this new model is so unique. It reminds the owner that they are gaining a significant increase in interior volume in a yacht measuring 42 metres, compared with a conventional yacht layout of a similar size. The Ocean 460 is available with MAN 2000hp engines providing a maximum speed of 21kts and a range of 3,200nm at a cruising speed of circa 12kts. Optional hybrid options will also be available offering a myriad of benefits from extending the range, a period of silent running or delivering the hotel load whilst at anchor. Sunseeker has designed the Ocean 460 with discerning clientele in mind, understanding that customers are spending more time on board, both underway and at anchor, with increased comfort and quality of life of supreme importance. The new Ocean 460 will benefit from reduced noise, more usable space and the very latest technologies. She also boasts some of Sunseeker’s most sophisticated interiors to date with numerous options for owners to fully customise their yacht. The interiors are a close collaboration between Design Unlimited and Sunseeker’s in-house interior design team and are understandably sumptuous. The first impression is one of light, space and detail paired with premium technology and an infinite choice of décor and lighting to suit the mood, increased with subtle lighting integration. The styling is an evolution that is reassuringly Sunseeker, with the yacht exuding sophistication with decadent touches, seamless room transitions, and the very finest woods, leathers and fabrics to create a bespoke personality for each individual owner.

December 2, 2022

New Model: Posillipo Technema 90

During the Cannes 2022 boat show Rizzardi returned the Posillipo brand to the scene with the new second generation Technema 90 model.  Designed by Galeazzi the second generation Technema 90 is based on the previous 2009 launched first series hull sold in two units.  This new Technema 90 gets updates coming everywhere making and bridging difference ten years plus of yacht design have made.  The most noticeable differences are the windows, both in hull and topside, the radar arch hard-top which now is forward looking, revised stern layout, and the open bulwarks which give undisturbed views from inside the saloon area.  There is also substantial technical differences in the new Technema 90 hull, modified to be fitted with active stabilizers and designed to run economically and comfortably at slow cruise speeds. Its good to see Posillipo back as technically speaking this name founded in 1942 reached near Riva status, especially with the fiberglass build Martinica and Tobago models of the end seventies, and the Technema series which re-invented yacht design in the eighties.   
Technical Data:
LOA - 26.75 m (87.7ft)
Hull Length - 23.9 m
Beam - 6.50 m
Draft - 2.15 m including propellers
Displacement - 74000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 8500 l
Water Capacity - 1600 l
Accommodation - eight or ten berths in four cabins, three/four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Man V12 2000hp
Propulsion - line shafts
Speed - 28 knots max 23 cruise
Project - Carlo Galeazzi

December 1, 2022

Asymmetry and Semi-Wide-Body and Wide-Body

The search and competition for more space in super yachts in the 24 to forty meters in size has seen the last five to seven years for ways to use more of what is available, height and beam.  Enters at first the semi-wide-body, which is followed with Asymmetric by one super yacht builder.  

When Amer launced the Cento in 2013 designed by Massimo Verme it changed how super yachts in this 24 to thirty meters should be, with its integrated semi-wide body giving new spaces to the owners stateroom forward.  

Ferretti and Azimut took note of this and in 2017 presented the semi-wide-body 920 by the first, and the Grande 27 Metri for the second, changing the design language, of how super yachts in this size should be.  The use of the semi-wide-body forward changed all what came before it.  Other builders took note with Princess presenting the X95 in 2020 and Sunseeker presenting the new 100 Yacht this 2022 year.  Sanlorenzo answered with its own method of Asymmetric layout with one side of the yacht becoming a full wide body. 

Hatteras was the first to start semi-wide-body and full wide-body solutions on its motor yachts in 1976 with its 48 LRC, followed in other bigger models like the 58 Motor Yacht and Cockpit MY.  Other builders took note and in 1986 Italian builder Alfamarine presented the 83 Cronos with a wide body design.  Alfamarine and designer Franco Harrauer was an important change factor as it introduced sleekness to the design, which was followed in the smaller sizes by Conam in 1989 with the 48 Chorum. 

At some point wide-body was abandoned in yacht design language but in 1996 Gulf Craft Majesty came with its first 86 super yacht, designed by Italian firm Yankee Delta and the wide body entered again in super yacht language.  Semi wide-body came at the forefront with Benetti's succesful 115 Classic which from 1998 up to 2006 sold in 27 units.

Definitely both styles are here to stay now.

November 30, 2022

Monthly News - November 2022

-pic of the month- Pearl New Dealer in Hong Kong

Cranchi and Innovation With Mirka

The quality of the various surfaces found on board Cranchi yachts is universally recognised. Today, that quality is achieved by means of cutting-edge technological solutions, and developed with the greatest focus on social and environmental responsibility. Indeed, Cranchi Yachts has partnered with Mirka, a Finnish company that manufactures products and tools for sanding applications, with an approach that prioritises both efficiency and the well-being of employees.  Abranet® is one of the Mirka products that Cranchi uses in its manufacturing facilities: a revolutionary abrasive that improves sanding quality whilst preventing particles from being dispersed into the working environment. The finishes achieved are impeccable and free from defects, and the abrasive material maintains its effectiveness for longer. Furthermore, the dust does not disperse, ensuring that the quality of the working environment is safeguarded - a consideration that has always been essential to Cranchi Yachts.

Cranchi Grand Tour Australia

The Cranchi Grand Tour is heading to Melbourne. From the evening of 9 December and for the entire weekend, Terence Dean Boat Sales, the Cranchi Yachts dealer for the state of Victoria in Australia, will open the doors of its facility in the Docklands District to visitors - the perfect destination for those who love good food and good fun. In line with the inimitable format of the Cranchi Grand Tour, the event will be both a party and a small private boat show, during which guests will be able to catch a glimpse of the M44 HT and the Z35.

Cranchi and Metropol Spain 

The decision taken by Cranchi thirty years ago to establish an international dealer network, in order to open up new markets for the brand and its products, was certainly an innovative one.  In the intervening years, the Cranchi sales network has grown and developed, whilst upholding the core principles on which it has always been founded: the professionalism and dependability of the selected dealers, the quality of their facilities, and the excellence of the services they offer. The dealers who work with Cranchi Yachts share a number of attributes with the shipyard, not least the same understanding of the business as a means of creating value for the companies and customers alike.  With such solid foundations, it is no surprise that the relationship between Cranchi Yachts and its dealers has lasted so well over time for some cases, even for decades. This is the case, for example, of Metropol Náuticas, which has represented Cranchi Yachts for many years in Spain: with numerous offices on the coast and on the islands, it serves as a true point of reference for sales, assistance and after-sales services within the nautical sector.


Fairline Launches Career Website

British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline has launched fairlinecareers.com, a new careers website to improve the recruitment process for candidates wishing to join the Oundle based business.  Jane Gadsby, HR and services director at Fairline, said: “We wanted to streamline and improve the candidate experience, whilst ensuring people could submit speculative applications to be considered for positions that may arise in the future. With an ambitious growth plan, planned new product investment and an ageing workforce, it was important to develop a dedicated careers site where we could outline all the opportunities and benefits of joining Fairline to recruit a new generation into boat building. With the addition of sharing employee and careers news, applicants can get a real sense of what life working at Fairline is like.”  The website’s applicant tracking system (ATS) manages the process between job offer and joining the business, seamlessly moving candidates through the hiring process, ensuring regular communication, important dates and pre-hiring processes are complete.  “It also automates responses to candidates to ensure they are always informed about the status of their application, something which was previously a challenge with the number of active job roles and applications. The ATS also gives us the opportunity to internally share CVs with hiring managers, a process which was previously manual,” said Jane.  Following successful boat shows at Cannes, Southampton and Fort Lauderdale, Fairline’s in-house design team is finalising details of the next phase of the product plan and as reported at Southampton International Boat Show, the company is on schedule to deliver 60 percent more boats than 2021. Brand new product launching in 2023 includes the all-new Targa 40 and Squadron 58. The year ahead is buoyed by a strong forward order book with orders valued at £125 million.  Jane continued: “The ATS will help us manage the next intake of apprentices in 2023; our 2022 intake started in August and so far the programme has been extremely popular and successful. With Fairline’s long-term business plan of introducing new products, an increase in its production and boat builder staff will be required as well as an increase in the number of office-based staff to support the growth. The next two years will be pivotal for Fairline and building a skilled, high-performing and passionate workforce to support the growth and deliver our ambition plans is a priority.”  Supporting its plans to increase production capacity, Fairline has invested in expanding its manufacturing footprint in key facilities. In the last 12 months there have been some significant new dealership appointments including Florida, New York, Quebec, Queensland, Mallorca and Denmark, assisting in driving sales and supporting its valued customers.


Fairline New South Germany Dealer

British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline has announced HL Schiffstechnik as its new dealer for south Germany as it continues to grow its network of dealers worldwide. HL Schiffstechnik joins the Fairline global roster of dealers - chosen for its excellent reputation for sales and outstanding customer service. The dealer started in 1985 as a two-man boat engine repair shop in a fuel station and today boasts more than 30 employees offering customers the complete service for their boat. To be known as Fairline South Germany, HL Schiffstechnik operates out of a specialist workshop in Kressbronn-Gohren on Lake Constance and offers a one-stop shop with a state of the art infrastructure and many years of experience in the maintenance and repair of motor and sailing boats. Fairline South Germany is headed up by managing director Daniel Rück who said: “As a new Fairline dealer, we’re proud to not only represent, but to also establish the great Fairline brand in the south of Germany. As specialists in the luxury boat sector, it was natural for us to bring the Fairline brand to our region and be able to offer it to our customers. “With our highly-skilled engineers and our strong sales team, we are in the best position to start our new journey with Fairline.” James Powell, sales director at Fairline said: “We’re delighted to welcome the HL Schiffstechnik team to the Fairline family. We are confident it is the best choice to expand our reach in Southern Germany and look forward to seeing many more Fairline owners enjoying the excellent cruising on offer in the region.”


Maritimo Model Maker

Building boats takes time, precision, and passion. Making models of them is no different, and due to the size of it, possibly even more intricate. Former Maritimo employee Chris Clark must have all of these qualities in spades, for the model of the Maritimo 550 Offshore Motor Yacht took him a whole three years of his spare time. Weekends and afternoons got consumed with the project, and it wasn’t like he had no idea what to expect, either. Previously, Clark had built five models for different people over the years, and had also completed a tall ship in kit form that now shares pride of place on his mantelpiece with the Maritimo.   Clark commenced with Maritimo back in 2005, and was involved in the build of the first two of the 550 series, before they went up to Cairns to take potential clients out fishing for marlin. What really sealed his adoration of the boat was when the tuna tower was fitted to the top of the first one. It was right then that he decided he would have a go at making a model of it.  Before joining Maritimo in 2005, Clark had run his own business in Northern NSW, looking after 33 schools. He says of the change to Maritimo, “I always enjoy a challenge, and that certainly was the case. Three weeks after joining I was made Head Electrician. I’d never worked on a boat in my life, electrically, so that was certainly pleasing. The other upside was changing over from working out of a truck and carting gear everywhere, to just walking along the catwalk straight onto the back of the boat and then back off. I didn’t have far to go, and I really enjoyed that.”  Certainly pleased with his advancement, the other benefit he found was that he no longer had to work out of a truck and carting gear everywhere. At the factory, he didn’t have far to go; just walking along the catwalk straight onto the back of the boat, and then back off again.  Tapping into his desire for a challenge, at Maritimo, Clark got to be involved with all the ins and outs of the boat. From engineering and plumbing to fit out one and fit out two, there he was. Of course, years later when he was taking the model on, all of these skills would pay dividends.  Clark’s time at Maritimo started with the eighth boat they ever built, and went all they way up to hull #43 of that series. The 52-footers followed, then the 48s, and the 55s, including the one that got him so inspired. He also did a lot of special work at the Hope Island facility completing aftermarket projects. One of his final projects before finishing in 2013 was the floating pontoon that is used at the boat shows and other events.  Approximately 1:22 scale, and measuring 760mm long, 300mm high, and 210mm wide, this is a substantial model, but it is the accuracy of scale, attention to detail, and finishing touches that could well be the crowning moment for this model. Making moulds was new for new for him, as he went about creating the model in that same way as the boats themselves. He says it might have been a ‘bit painful’, and after nine months just building the deck, he was only focussing on the fact that he had to see it through.  The flying bridge would be another five months, with the hard top another two months on top of that, and quickly you can see why the entire project spanned three years.  “Getting it to scale was probably the most challenging aspect, along with working out how I was going to join it all together. The bow rails were the next most difficult element, with deciding to make it remote control after the fact coming in after them”, said Clark.  Propellers and shafts may have come from an RC component company, but skegs, and all the fittings for the steering were done by hand. Obviously when you look at the pictures you can see that the main saloon and enclosed bridge are completely kitted out, and even the navigation lights work.  “Definitely the interiors are fiddly work, but with the help of the General Arrangements (plans) I was able to work it all out. Those and a lot of photos taken as we worked on the boats really helped me to complete the project.”  Continuing on with his desire for challenge, Clark is now a project supervisor at a commercial nursery, but remembers his time at Maritimo both fondly and distinctly. His memories won’t be leaving him any time soon, and he’s always got that reminder in his house.  As for more models, Clark says, “Five years ago we had a young boy, so my time’s pretty well spent, occupied with other activities. There are other projects and my new job, so I’m pretty busy. I still have the moulds for the 550 Offshore Motor Yacht, but because it took me so long, my wife was a bit upset with me. She said if I actually sold it, she’d let me build another one.” That obviously did not happen, but a commission now might change things.

Maritimo New Director of Business Development

Leading Australian luxury motor yacht manufacturer, Maritimo, continues to thrive in a record sales period, driven by new model launches and introductions. In order to help manage this growth and ensure Maritimo continues to deliver a best-in-class experience for its clients, the company announced that industry veteran Bill Michel has joined its senior management team as the Director of Business Development—Americas. Bill will leverage his vast international marine industry experience to complement Maritimo Americas seasoned team across multiple areas, including dealer and sales development, customer service, and marketing. He is based in South Florida and will travel throughout the Americas to engage with Maritimo’s sales teams and customer base.  "Maritimo is in a period of unprecedented growth,” says Dave Northrop, Maritimo President of the Americas. “Having someone of Bill’s caliber and background to help lead us into the future and help manage our continued anticipated growth is a key element to our long-term initiatives.”  Prior to joining Maritimo, Bill was the Managing Director of SureShade and New Product Development for Lippert; owner of TaylorMade Systems, Lewmar, and SureShade. . While there, Bill oversaw the day-to-day operations and was responsible for the strategic planning of marine products. His international business skills were sharpened while working for nearly 24 years at Uflex USA, a division of the Italian based Ultraflex Group. As Vice President/Managing Director, Bill was responsible for all facets of Uflex USA’s domestic business including sales, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution. All of these key areas will serve him well in his new role at Maritimo.  “I’ve followed Maritimo’s success for years and enjoyed a prior working relationship with Dave Northrop,” says Bill. “To be able to join this team and company at such an exciting time is truly a wonderful opportunity. During the past few months, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all our wonderful owners as well and look forward to meeting them all!”


MJM Expands in New Jersey

MJM welcomes Comstock Yacht Sales & Marina as our new sales and service partner for the state of New Jersey. "With an outstanding reputation and phenomenal facilities, the addition of Comstock to our dealer network is a huge win for our current MJM owners and soon to be MJM owners," said Peter Johnstone, 2nd Gen Chairman of MJM Yachts.  "We are so excited to be named New Jersey's dealer for MJM Yachts. Since 1973 our family has become accustomed to retailing quality manufactured boats here at Comstock. MJM is another fine example of a “perfect craft” and great addition for the waterways here in New Jersey" said Chip Gahr, President.


Pearl Yachts New Dealer in Hong Kong

Pearl Yachts has reached an agreement with VP Yachts to represent the British brand in Hong Kong. This latest step in the expansion of Pearl’s dealer network sees a first dealership into Asia, in the legendary yachting city, Hong Kong. Following the premiere of the Pearl 72 at FLIBS, Pearl Yachts has marked another important milestone with the announcement of a new partnership. VP Yachts, based in Hong Kong and directed by Vivian Chan, is the newest Pearl Dealer. She has opened a window for the brand into the far east, through the most strategic city, and with the support of a boating dynasty. In addition to their professional, yet modern approach, VP Yachts stood out for their impressive shipyard, located centrally in Hong Kong main harbor. Vivian Chan, also General Manager of her family’s Sun Hing Shipyard, said, “The cultural bond we share is undeniable. The style of Pearl Yachts’ instantly recognizable flybridges fits perfectly with the tastes in our local market with British allure and a neutral, sober color palette a winning proposal to our market. VP Yachts is positioned to leverage generational connections in local yachting that go beyond even my lifetime involvement through the family business, so we are excited to see the heights we can reach together.” Pearl Managing Director Iain Smallridge stated, “We always celebrate growth and new friends, especially in affluent and interesting markets, but to see our British brand now properly entering Hong Kong, uniting two seafaring cultures with shared history in a venture is a source of special satisfaction. VP Yachts have just what Pearl needs to succeed in a competitive market, with an educated, international approach to growth. Vivian, being a Managing Director of a shipyard herself, having proven her competence in my very position, gives me full confidence that she understands not only her side, but ours as well – which is invaluable in this partnership.”


Riva Celebrates Classic Motorboats and Cars at Milan

Anyone who owns one knows full well that every boat built by Riva, whatever its size, is a symbol of performance, craftsmanship, style and exclusiveness, forever imprinted with the brand’s legendary spirit.  That’s why in 1957 Carlo Riva created RAM - Revisione Assistenza Motoscafi, the first Riva boat service established next to the brand’s Sarnico yard, aiming to offer Riva owners assistance whenever they need it, and to restore motorboats using Riva’s original and unique techniques, materials and know-how.  Over the years, RAM Riva Classiche has become the international benchmark for maintaining both mahogany and fibreglass Riva boats from 6 to 13 metres in length, as well as offering storage and mooring plus a restoration service to return motorboats to their original glory, while leaving their Riva soul and the value of their craftsmanship intact.  The care and attention they lavish on their motorboat is a characteristic that classic boat owners share with vintage car lovers: original details and finishes are what make classic boats and cars unique, and their preservation is part of the emotion aroused by owning such a precious object, an emotion that only a true enthusiast can understand.  Milano AutoClassica, the Classic and Sports Car Show held in Milan from November 18 to 20, has always attracted enthusiasts and collectors with an extensive exhibition of models that have contributed to writing automotive history. This year, RAM Riva Classiche will be attending the high-profile show with a stand showcasing three emblematic Rivas: a Corsaro, the first series-produced wooden hull, an Ariston, the iconic model launched in 1950 of which 1,012 were built in a production run spanning 26 years, and an Aquarama, the legendary boat that this year celebrates 60 years since its creation in 1962. A Riva Lounge will also be set up inside the stand and furnished with items that reflect the unique and timeless maritime style that is a feature of the boats’ interiors. Visitors to the RAM Riva Classiche stand will also be able to purchase the exclusive products on offer in the Riva Boutique: design objects, clothing, accessories and furnishings inspired by the world of yachting. They include “Riva Aquarama”, the book published by Assouline celebrating 60 years since the launch of Riva’s iconic runabout.


Riviera International Apprentice Training Award

Australia’s luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, has again been internationally recognised for its training program, jointly winning the "Best Apprenticeship or Training Scheme" category at the prestigious annual world Boat Builder Awards held in the Amsterdam National Maritime Museum in the Netherlands this week.  IBI Editor and chair of Boat Builder Awards judging panel Ed Slack announced that Riviera Australia and Sunseeker International jointly were awarded "for their long-standing nurturing of apprentices and graduates, contributing greatly to the skilled workforces of their companies and regions.  "Our congratulations to everyone who entered and especially to those who were honoured this evening,” said Mr Slack.  Riviera has operated an apprentice training program since 1993. In that first year, eight young Australians took up apprenticeships. Today 101 young apprentices at varying stages of training, work at the company's 16-hectare site in south-east Queensland. Alongside more than 800 highly experienced craftspeople, working together to create over 150 yachts a year, ranging in length from 39 to 78 feet, more than 60 percent of which are delivered to international markets.  Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said: "Our team is honoured with this international recognition of our commitment to training and mentoring the future master craftspeople of our industry.  "The success of Riviera's apprenticeship program has been recognised with many awards over three decades," he said. "The vast majority of apprentices who have graduated at Riviera have continued their careers with the company, affirming Riviera as an employer of choice. Today these young people are vital members of our team helping to meet the global demand for luxury Riviera motor yachts."  Riviera partners with Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and Plastic and Rubber Technical Education Centre (PARTEC) organisations to facilitate technical learning during which the apprentices undertake classroom studies over three of the four years of their formal further education and training.  Riviera’s apprentices are mentored by the largest group of marine craftspeople in Australia who are part of the 900-strong Riviera team creating motor yachts that instil a real sense of confidence, safety and luxury and are built to last.  Over the past 20 years, Riviera has enhanced its award-winning apprenticeship training with its exclusive Propel program which is designed to help apprentices develop life skills that can guide them on the path to professional and personal success.  Riviera has been building luxury motor yachts since 1980, launching more than 5,800 yachts in that time. 


Sunseeker Investment in People Recognized

Sunseeker is proud to have won the Metstade Boat Builder Award for ‘Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme’. The awards seek to celebrate outstanding achievements across key areas of the global marine industry. The Sunseeker early careers programme received the accolade for its exceptional offering to individuals wishing to enter the maritime manufacturing sector and the multiple progression and advancement opportunities it provides.  Sian Dodds, HR Director at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are incredibly proud to have won ‘Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme’ at METSTRADE this year. With over 170 apprentices and graduates currently in training with us, our long-standing commitment to investment in people provides the opportunity to develop a well-rounded and successful career in the maritime sector. Our training programmes have proven to produce some of the best talent in the industry. They are our future leaders and technical experts, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable marine industry. We are delighted to have received recognition from an international panel of judges, and whilst we continue to receive awards for our tremendous training schemes, significant challenges remain in the industry. We are proud to continue our investment in new training schemes.”  Using the United Kingdom’s Apprenticeship Standards, Sunseeker recruits apprentices onto a four-year training programme which delivers c.1,250 training hours at a specialist Marina Training Centre at Bournemouth and Poole College. Each apprentice is paired with a highly qualified mentor in their chosen trade, completing c. 6,000 hours of practical training.  There is a choice of four technical pathways: Composites, Carpentry and Joinery, Marine Mechanical Engineering, and Marine Electrical Engineering. Apprentices move through the various production stages of boat building over four years, culminating in a new independent end-point assessment with the membership organisation for the leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry, British Marine.  The graduate scheme has been a revelation for Sunseeker. Working with functional leaders across the company to develop job roles for academically educated talent has produced a new stream of innovative free thinking. Students are offered a two or three-year programme in a hands-on position whilst providing access to training, development and membership with relevant professional bodies aligned to UK SPEC and other registered membership organisations in Production, Accountancy, IT and Marketing. Graduates typically earn real-world experience delivering projects that affect the bottom line.  Both of these people investments have set the benchmark for most large organisations. Sunseeker offers unmatched career progression opportunities to the incumbents of the early careers scheme. Whether progressing to a team on the water or taking responsibility for the leadership of people, Sunseeker truly believes that nurturing a growing workforce is the best place to source talented leaders and industry superstars of the future.

Sunseeker Win Innovative Marketing at National Engage Awards 2022

The 'Sunseeker Famous Five' campaign, pioneered by the Sunseeker International in-house marketing department, has won the 'Best Use of Innovation in Customer Engagement' at the Engage Awards 2022. The Engage Awards is one of the country’s most prestigious customer and employee engagement awards, celebrating excellence across various industries nationwide. The British boatbuilder was up against some of the UK’s biggest brands, including Boots, Orange, Coutts and Trailfinders among the ten shortlisted nominees. Bryan Jones, Marketing Manager at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are incredibly proud to win this prestigious marketing award. The team has worked very hard to develop engaging customer-centric campaigns that drive sales and deliver real value to our customers. The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ launch will forever be iconic for our company, not just because we changed how we approached the power of digital, but how we could then convert the subsequent interest via the dedicated Showcase customer experience. It has been game-changing. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved and what’s to come for our brand.”  The 22 independent judges unanimously agreed: “Great innovation to move from a non-digital experience to one which is incredibly engaging and of a quality you would expect for a product of such high value. An extraordinary product that has succeeded remarkably in its chosen aims during the most difficult times but making a virtue of the problems and producing a sensational range of boats that vividly capture the imagination without having to actually occupy the captain's seat! A great initiative from a small marketing team.”  Best Use of Innovation in Customer Engagement – The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ Campaign.  Innovation is inherent in Sunseeker’s brand DNA, not just in the design of its yachts, but in every facet of the company. Sales and marketing innovations are important for the brand and the marketing team consistently works hard to innovate and nurture sales opportunities on behalf of its c.100 appointed dealers globally, across more than 60 countries. Most of the brand’s sales take place at global boat shows and events where customers are invited to experience and purchase the yachts in a VIP setting.  With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company lost its sales platform overnight with all international boat shows and events cancelled. This was a huge challenge for the company during a year when it was due to launch five brand-new yachts, ranging in price from c.£1m to £6.5m (exc tax), a first in the company’s history.  To overcome these challenges, and in a completely new move for the company, Sunseeker International launched the ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ in a livestream event on the Sunseeker YouTube channel and Facebook page on 14 May 2021, to the world’s media, its appointed dealers and its customers. The team also supported a dedicated luxury ‘Sunseeker Showcase’ to invite customers to personally view its yachts and enjoy the ultimate sales experience at the company’s headquarters in Poole.  The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ digital launch was completely innovative in the leisure marine sector where digital marketing has had a slower uptake in comparison to other sectors, such as automotive. Sunseeker’s in-house Marketing team had a clear vision to be the first yacht brand to launch five new models to market at the same time and generate sales enquiries using predominately digital marketing platforms. It was a bold move that saw the team create digital assets and video content for each model, as well as the collective ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’. The team collaborated with a well-known friend of the brand, actor Hugh Bonneville, to anchor the campaign; an alignment that would generate additional sales interest and credibility for the brand.


Viking Hands On Education

Viking President and CEO Pat Healey kicked off an Apprenticeship Summit at the company’s New Gretna, New Jersey, manufacturing plant. The Summit included local, state and federal officials (including Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor Robert Asaro-Angelo) – all celebrating National Apprenticeship Week and Viking’s commitment to the program. “We are a proud New Jersey manufacturer and have tremendous relationships with our community,” said Pat. Executive Vice President Drew Davala first brought apprenticeships to Viking in 1988. “Viking values our alliance with the Egg Harbor Township school district and the ability to nurture students to embrace trade skills,” said Drew. “College isn’t for everyone, and we are providing an opportunity for students to not only learn but gain hands-on skills and confidence – and a career after graduation.” Viking currently has five students working at the New Gretna facility through the apprenticeship program.

Viking 2023 VIP Show

Mark your calendar to visit the industry-leading fleet at the Vikingr exclusive VIP Preview at the Viking Yacht Service Center in Riviera Beach, Florida. The Viking two new flagships the Viking 90 and Valhalla 55 will take center stage at the two-day event that takes place Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4, 2023. Sea trials will be available for select models.

November 29, 2022

Kenneth Charles Stock 1938 - 2022

It is with a heavy heart that Cruisers Yachts has announced the death of its long-time owner Kenneth Charles Stock, who passed away on November 28, 2022. Born April 6, 1938 in Oconto, Wisconsin. K.C. from a young age had a knack as an entrepreneur. He quickly progressed in business to buy his first company, a contractor yard, in 1971 and renamed it Stock Lumber, growing it to 11 yards across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Following his passion for the lumber business and the entrepreneurial spirit, he bought his hometown boat company, Cruisers Yachts. Growing up in Oconto, it was important to K.C. that the town continued to thrive and that meant keeping jobs local. He invested in the company and the Oconto community to see it flourish. Mark Pedersen, President of Cruisers Yachts, said. With K.C.’s support for over 28 years, Cruisers Yachts has enjoyed tremendous growth and is now known as one of the world’s premier manufacturers of premium yachts ranging from 33 to 60 feet. Named after his father, the Cantius series was born with the launch of the 48 Cantius in 2011. Since then, ten models, including the largest in the line-up, the 60 Cantius, have been badged with his father’s name. In 2019, Cruisers Yachts unveiled the Grand Luxury Sport series, which happens to be the initials of his loving wife Georgia. The GLS series comprises of four models, ranging from 34 to 50 feet. Wanting to continue the company’s growth, KCS International, Inc., parent company of Cruisers Yachts, significantly expanded its manufacturing and production capacity with the acquisition of the nearby Pulaski, Wisconsin facility that formerly built Carver and Marquis brand yachts. Shortly after, K.C. was looking for a new successor that would keep Cruisers Yachts rooted in Wisconsin. In May of 2021, K.C. sold the company to MarineMax, Inc., the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer with the promise to keep Cruisers Yachts, the employees, and the community thriving.  K.C. always believed in giving back to the community. One of his greatest achievements was starting the K.C. Stock Foundation to help those in need. He took great pride in making a positive difference in other people’s lives. His foundation made the lead gift to start the Children’s Hospital in North-eastern Wisconsin at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay. He would encourage others to donate to one of his favourite charities, the HSHS St. Vincent’s Foundation that provides Christmas presents to all the children in the Paediatric Oncology Unit. K.C. loved to do this and bring families a bit of joy and happiness during the holiday season.

New Model: Jet Tern Selene 72 Ocean Explorer

Jet Tern presents the new Selence 72 Ocean Explorer coming from Howard Chen long standing collaboration with Dutch designer Guido de Groot. With this the 72 Ocean Explorer profile was drafted to fit the qualities of a Selene classic ocean yacht but with softer lines and a different interior decoration that attract European owners. James Fwu a renowned naval architect of Taiwan joined this international team for the hull lines, hydrostatics data, structural design, stability calculations, dynamics performance and final “EU Type Examination Certificate” with RINA. The Selene 72 Ocean Explorer comes with a length overall of just over 23 meters, a displacement of 72 Tons and equipped with two Cummins 405hp engines reaches a cruising speed of nine knots, and a max of eleven. What is catching eyes is the elegant combination of modern styling and the line of a reassuring ocean going vessel. It shows a number of the Selene family traits with her powerful raised pilothouse, Portuguese bridge, wide upper deck, and side-deck walk-arounds which provide safety and convenience for passengers of all ages. But a new approach is also visible in the addition of the large side windows in the hull and the curvy and sleek lines of the flying bridge.  The Selene 72 Ocean Explorer exterior elegance extends to the beautiful light-filled interior in the climate-controlled salon offers high-end comfort with a surrounding view of nature while cruising or at anchor. The lower deck of the Selene 72 Ocean Explorer has three or four guest cabins, a luxurious full-beam owner’s cabin and a crew’s quarters with two cabins and private head which is connected to a very large swimming platform, which can be equipped with a hydraulic Tender-lift.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 23.09 m (75.9ft)
Waterline Length - 20.3 m
Beam - 5.92 m
Draft - 1.98 m
Displacement - 72 t
Fuel Capacity - 11,355 l
Water Capacity - 2649 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, or eight berths in four cabins, two/three crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Cummins QSL9 405hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Project - Guide de Groot exterior, James Fwu naval architect

November 28, 2022

Project: Sea Ray Sundancer 370 Inboard

Sea Ray present the project for a new Inboard version for its Sundancer 370 model, which debuted in early 2021.  The Sea Ray Sundancer 370 Inboard differentiates from the Outboard version aft, with a free uncluttered stern and extended bathing platform.  The new Sundancer 370 is an innovative hard top sport cruiser with a fully usable deck from fore to aft, offering exterior spaces associated to those of a centre console thanks to its exterior asymmetric design, which with its port passageway leads you forward to a relaxing fore deck area with sun-pad and opposite settee.  Down below the Sea Ray Sundancer 370 offers a two plus two accommodation with a galley to port side, and shower head to starboard in between the berths.  So far Sea Ray is not advising what type of engines the inboard stern drive version will have, with the 2021 Outboard version powered by twin or triple Mercury 300hp.