June 14, 2025

New Model: AB Yachts 130

AB Yachts has delivered the first unit of its new 130 flagship model.   Initially announced as a 125 project as a custom order to a client the AB Yachts 130 is an evolution of the 120 series which first launched in 2023.  The AB Yachts 130 is also the largest yacht thus far of the new course which was started in 2020 with the second generation 100 model, as designed by Acube Design Studio of Alessandro Merciadri.  At forty meters in length, the AB Yachts 130 as any AB Yachts takes the sailing experience to a whole new level: expandable beach area, on-demand sea-view pool, float-in garage, and triple MTU 2600hp with waterjets propulsion that push up to 41 knots of top speed. The AB Yachts 130 is not only about performance but also has comfort at the scope of the project, thanks to the latest Seakeeper stabilization and a shallow draft of under a meter and a half.
Technical Data:
LOA - 39.65 m (130.1ft)
Beam - 7.90 m
Draft - 1.30 m
Displacement - 145 t full load
Fuel Capacity - 17,500 l
Water Capacity - 3000 l
Accommodation - ten guests in five cabins, five crew in three cabins
Engines - 3 x MTU 16V2000 M96L 2600hp
Propulsion - MJP water jets, two steerable plus one central booster
Speed - 41 knots max
Range - 450 nautical miles at fast cruise
Construction - advanced composites
Project - Acube, AB Yachts
Certification - RINA C Hull Mach Y unrestricted navigation

June 13, 2025

Project: Cantieri di Pisa Custom 40

Cantieri di Pisa’s Custom Division celebrated the start of construction work on a 40-metre full custom yacht at its shipyard with the coin ceremony, a fascinating ritual with deep roots in maritime tradition. Called as the Cantieri di Pisa Custom 40, this made to order super yacht was sold by the shipyard a few months ago, extends across four decks and has a steel hull with an aluminium and composite superstructure. In an unusual feature for a 40-metre boat, this yacht has six cabins for guests and four for the crew on the Lower Deck, plus the captain’s cabin and the first officer’s quarters on the Bridge Deck. Antonio Luxardo’s design projects a highly original style that’s perfectly aligned with the brand identity and the owner’s wishes. This majestic yacht created by the Custom Division features sleek exterior lines that immediately bring to mind the classic style features of the shipyard’s most iconic models, such as the black and white air intake grilles, the black band running the length of the hull and the handrails transformed into design features. The custom yacht will have a gross tonnage under 500 GT and a length of 40 metres, providing the right space and comfort for a unique new layout on a boat this size, starting with the six cabins for guests; a refined owner’s stateroom with a private terrace forward on the Main Deck, plus four guest cabins and a VIP cabin on the Lower Deck. Then there are the six crew cabins, including the captain’s cabin next to the wheelhouse and the first officer’s quarters on the Bridge Deck. Two generous salons are located on the Main and Bridge Decks. The relaxation areas on all four decks are designed with loose furniture, sun loungers, sofas and sunbeds, while the aft cockpit is home to a large Jacuzzi. Also suitable for charter, the yacht is ideal for cruising anywhere in the world and features state-of-the-art entertainment systems. The Cantiere di Pisa Custom 40 engineering was developed by Studio Sa.Ma.Re Design by Francesco Samarelli with support from Antonio Luxardo, chief designer at Cantieri di Pisa, and Optima Design, the firm he founded in La Spezia. Built to Bureau Veritas class from steel and the superstructure from aluminium and advanced composite materials using vacuum technology, a distinguishing feature of Cantieri di Pisa’s product line that results in lighter weight and a lower centre of gravity, and therefore better propulsion efficiency and reduced fuel consumption. The large garage in the midship section of the yacht has a lateral launching system for a tender up to 6.6 metres in length, plus various water toys and a jet ski. There’s also a fully fitted galley, various pantries on all four decks, fridge and freezer areas and a high-capacity laundry, which taken together with the generous storage spaces on every deck, make this 40-metre yacht ideal for long stays on board in total comfort. The propulsion will be provided by two Man 1550hp engines, giving the Custom 40 an estimated top speed of fifteen knots and a range of 2,000 nautical miles at cruising speed.

June 12, 2025

18 Months Old Child Injured in River Thames Boat Explosion

Nine people including of which an eighteen month toddler were injured as a classic cabin cruiser exploded near the town of Lechlade, on the edge of Wiltshire, River Thames on mid-day of Saturday 31 May.  The boat exploded first and then went ablaze as Thames Valley and Hampshire and Isle of Wight repsonded with two air ambulances and six road ambulances, with fire engines from Gloucestershire constabulary, Thames Valley police, Wiltshire police and the Ministry of Defence police were also called to the scene, in a huge emergency response.  The eighteen month toddler which was reported to have life changing injuries was flown to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children for urgent medical care.  The other eight persons were taken to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, with two of them still under observation.  The Police also mentioned the heroics of two passers-by from Wales who jumped in the water to save the lives of those who could not swim.  The cause of the explosion is not reported, with the boat reported to be a liveaboard of a family.
The boat in this explosion and fire is a Marine Projects Pilgrim 30 as produced from 1968 to 1970.  The Pilgrim 30 came out as a replacement to the Project 31, and was replaced by the Princess 32, which debuted the famous name of the British boat builder in 1969.

Nine Persons Saved as Sport Cruiser Hits Reef in Procida Island

Four Adults and five children were saved from as an eight meter sport cruiser hit the Punta Serra reef, to the North West of Phlegraean island of Procida, on the afternoon of Sunday 22 September.  The boat and the boaters were blocked on the reef, as the boat was stuck on the reef.  Following a call for assistance, the Port Captaincy with CP 829 and Guardia Costiera GC B154, came to the spot, and first rescued the boaters, and then started an operation to recover the boat.  Ultimately the operation coordinated by the Direzione Maritima di Napoli and Circomare di Ischia was a success.  None of the boaters were injured and the boat was towed to a nearby marina for inspection.
The boat in this collision is a Mano Marine 26 Sport as produced in the noughties.  The 26 Sport was replaced by the walk around 25_09 efb.

Improve-it = Horizon PC60

During the 2025 Palm Beach boat show Horizon presented a PC60 with a Portuguese Deck configuration.  This new option for the PC60 was built for first-time Horizon owners seeking a power catamaran with bow seating. The popularity of the Portuguese Deck design aboard the Horizon PC68 inspired the layout of the redesigned PC60 and the new configuration was a hit. The innovative Portuguese Deck design extends the exterior space offered on the PC60’s topmost deck with a centreline passage that leads through a hydraulic door from the flybridge to the foredeck, which is configured with twin built-in settees and hi/lo tables for convertible dining and lounging. The flybridge itself features the helm, an L-shaped dinette, and a walk-behind bar with refrigeration. The deck areas aboard the PC60 are the most sought-after feature of this middle model in the PC Series range, which spans from the PC52 to the PC68. In addition to her spacious aft deck, this first of PC60 deck option features walk around side decks that lead to the foredeck and to steps leading up to the Portuguese Deck. Aft of the flybridge, the boat deck offers additional space for lounging and entertaining when the tender is deployed. The PC60 is a four-stateroom catamaran yacht and features the optional on-deck master stateroom configuration with three additional cabins in the hulls. The starboard hull houses an ensuite queen and twin cabin while the master ensuite with dual wash basins and a convertible twin ensuite cabin are positioned in the port hull. The interior showcases the variety of soft goods, wood, stonework, and finishes that owners can specify for their semi-custom power catamaran build, with the assistance of The Powercat Company’s own in-house design team. The inviting salon offers a large L-shaped sofa, spacious galley, and bar area, creating a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and entertainment that is further complemented by the yacht’s Silent Living package offering up to 20 hours of generator-free comfort.

June 11, 2025

Sport Cruiser Saved from Sinking near Villasimius Sardinia

A fourteen meter Itama sport cruiser with one man onboard was saved from sinking near Geremias, Villasimius, to the South of Sardinia at 16:00 hours of Friday seventeen November 2023.  Two Vigili dell Fuoco rib boats assisted the boater, who called a May Day as the boat was taking water, and heading into the rocks.  The Vigili dell Fuoco crew and divers from Selezione Navale blocked the water entry and emptied the boat with the help of two water pumps. After this the boat was towed to the harbour of Capitana, with the boater assisted by 118 emergency crew who gave him treatement as he arrived at marina.  The cause of water entry was not reported.
The boat in this near sinking is an Itama 45 first version as designed by Mario Amati and produced from 1985 to 1988.   The Itama 45 was modified in a second series version in the fall 1988 and then produced till 1995 for a total of 36 units being build.

Project: Formula 360 Crossover Bowrider

Formula announces the 360 Crossover Bowrider, a model which replaces the long standing 350 Crossover Bowrider after twelve years in production.  The 360 Bowrider starts an exciting new generation of Formula dayboats, with new designer Michael Young taking over from his mentor and long standing head designer John Adams, who since 1971 has led the Decatur Indiana boat builder.  From the stepped Fas3Tech hull to the stylish hardtop with glass sunroof, the Formula 360 Crossover Bowrider presents itself as a refreshing, innovative choice for day-boaters.  Over ten meters in length with a generous beam, the 360 Crossover Bowrider heralds the arrival of a new generation of open-bow dayboats, a true blend of entertainment-ready comfort and the exhilarating agility that is rooted in Formular performance heritage. True to its Formula Crossover Bowrider lineage, the 360 boasts an open bow with a single-level, flush cockpit and an innovative stand-up lower deck cabin layout with overnight accommodation for two and a spacious shower head located forward. Introduced with twin sterndrive standard Mercruiser 380hp, or optional 430hp and Ilmor's 520hp.  The Formula 360 Crossover Bowrider is also to be available with with four choice outboard power, which start from triple Mercury 300hp up to 400hp and or twin 600hp.

June 10, 2025

New Model: Maritimo M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht

Maritimo, Australia’s world-class luxury motor yacht builder, expands its next-generation model line-up as it global launched the all-new M50 Flybridge Motor Yacht at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on May 2025. A brand defined by its relentless pursuit of perfection, Maritimo has further evolved its acclaimed M Series motor yachts, with extensive customer consultation fed directly into the Australian-based design team, resulting in a very distinguished fifteen meter motor that’s set to redefine its class. Thousands of design and engineering hours have shaped the M50 into a vessel of refined elegance and purposeful functionality, with balanced proportions from every angle. Each detail has been scrutinised and elevated. Stepping aboard, guests are greeted with an abundance of space and luxury. The innovative rear swim platform raises and folds to reduce the vessel’s length by 750mm when docked, and then when deployed, it transforms into a spacious entertainment area ideal for all water-based activities. Access to the lazarette is via a hatch in the rear of the large entertainment module, containing the built-in barbecue and refrigerator. Further access is also provided under the long seating unit that runs across the forward end of the entertainment module, avoiding the need for heavy actuators to lift the deck and console area. Maritimo’s signature safety is ever-present, with high sides protecting those that are required to move forward, for anchoring or access to the tender, if stowed at the front. The Maritimo engineered articulating swim platform adds further protection to the rear of the vessel, when raised during cruising. The cockpit area provides a fabulous alfresco dining experience and is an entertainer’s dream, flowing seamlessly into the galley and saloon, creating a cohesive, visually clean space. The galley is a ‘chef’s delight’ and features European appliances, impeccable finishes, and immense storage, servicing both the cockpit and saloon with ease. The galley also features plenty of bench space for preparation and service, with a central island bench within the ‘L’ shaped format, which sweeps around the right-hand side of the space. Adjacent, Maritimo’s hallmark internal rear facing staircase leads to the enclosed flybridge on the level above. Natural light fills every internal space. The panoramic saloon windows subtly lowered in the design give commanding views in luxurious comfort from the upper enclosed flybridge. Expansive glass provides 360-degree visibility in a fully protected, climate-controlled environment. Light and air is also brought into the luxurious space via the long strip skylight, with forward and rear opening hatches above in the bridge hardtop. Twin sculpted helm seats ensure comfort and support during long passages, delivering both confidence and enjoyment whilst at sea. The M50 boasts a large bridge that can accommodate two or three screens that visually float above the console, with all other electronics and equipment is thoughtfully placed and within touch. A large cruising lounge is positioned opposite the helm to ensure the journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Generous storage, refrigerator and pull-out convertible accommodation on the bridge level turns this space into a highly comfortable penthouse apartment for additional guests. This allows for up to eight guests to enjoy all the new M50 has to offer. The main saloon exudes plush elegance, inviting guests to linger. Moving forward, a naturally lit companionway leads to accommodation spaces that set the M50 apart. By opting for a two-cabin configuration, Maritimo avoided compromise. The symmetrical full-beam master stateroom is expansive and beautifully appointed, with a very generous ensuite, day lounge and hanger lockers at the forward end. The VIP stateroom offers flexible sleeping arrangements, with a bed that can split into singles and an enlarged second bathroom that also serves the other guests. With further accommodation provided by pull out beds in the saloon and above in the flybridge deck, the M50 offers great flexibility to cater for larger numbers of guests, when required. Natural light and ventilation feature prominently throughout: A central skylight and hatch in the VIP stateroom, Expansive side windows with opening portholes in the Master Stateroom, Skylights and hatches in both bathrooms. With a consistent minimum headroom of just under two meters, the M50 maintains a balanced, proportionally perfect silhouette, whilst optimising weight distribution and stability. Leveraging decades of offshore racing pedigree, Maritimo’s hull design delivers lift, stability, and comfort. A reverse chine runs nearly the length of the hull, while a carefully shaped keel ensures a soft re-entry in challenging seas. Powered by twin Volvo 800hp, the Maritimo M50 comfortably cruises at 24 knots, with a top speed of 30 knots, all supported by a 3700-litre fuel tank offering exceptional range and efficiency.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.70 m (51.6ft)
Hull Length - 15.6 m
Beam - 5.22 m
Draft - 1.39 m
Displacement - 25,000 kg dry
Fuel Capacity - 3700 l
Water Capacity - 750 l
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins, plus four convertible berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D13 800hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - thirty knots max 24 cruise

June 9, 2025

Projects: Viking 64 Sport Coupe, Viking 64 Sport Tower

Viking proudly introduces the 64 Sport Coupe a project that expands the versatile 64 series with modern design, advanced performance and industry-leading fishability. Build on the proven 64 Convertible hull, so far delivered in forty units, this exciting addition is also available with a Palm Beach Towers tuna tower, giving owners two distinct profiles on the same high-performance platform, this version as pictured below called the 64 Sport Tower.  In the Viking 64 Sport Coupe owners can choose between two interior layouts: galley-up with four staterooms, or galley-down with a spacious, salon-style command deck and three staterooms. Both are appointed with three heads, offering refined comfort, smart accommodations and the flexibility for serious cruising or fishing.
The 64 Sport Tower features the same design as the Sport Coupe with the addition of a custom PBT tower that enhances offshore utility, boosts fishability and gives the yacht a commanding profile. The Sport Coupe, with its sleek fiberglass deckhouse, leans into a sportier, more streamlined aesthetic. The first build, a 64 Sport Coupe for a long time Viking owner, is set to begin construction in September 2025, with delivery scheduled for June 2026. This 64 Sport Coupe will feature the galley-down layout with a crossover forward stateroom a configuration that maximizes space for entertaining and versatility. This new project is further testament to Viking evolution, as the 64 Sport Coupe and 64 Sport Tower is also to be the largest express sportfish to date build by New Jersey located largest convertible yachts builder, expanding the size by ten foot from the 54 Open or Sport Coupe models as introduced in 2021.

June 8, 2025

22 Injured as Boat Goes Ablaze Near Long Island Sound, New York

 
22 persons were injured as a ten meter Carver cruiser went ablaze at Long Island Sound, near Hart Island, New York just after 20:00 of Saturday seventh June.  New York Police Department harbour and aviation units responded, as did the Fire Department New York to assist in the rescue of boaters and control the fire. Three people were pulled from the water by the Fire Department crews, and brought to a dock where Emergency Medical Service crews were waiting to begin Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.  The other nineteen boaters swam to nearby Hart Island and were rescued by Fire Department, Police Department, and Coast Guard boats.  The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the 33 year old skipper of the boat has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated.  The Carver cruiser was ultimately wrecked by the fire fire.
The boat in this fire is a Carver 350 Mariner as produced from 1997 up to 2003.  The 350 Mariner came out as a replacement to the Carver 330 Mariner, with the model evolving into the 36 Mariner and produced for another eight years.