-pic of the month- Jarrett Bay Record at 68th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament
Azimut-Benetti Group Chairman President of Fondazione Altagamma
We are proud to congratulate that Chairman Giovanna Vitelli, on her appointment as President of Fondazione Altagamma for the 2026–2029 term. Altagamma brings together the leading companies of Italy's High-End Industry, promoting Italian excellence, uniqueness and lifestyle worldwide. The sector represents €144 billion in turnover, involves nearly 2 million workers and contributes 7.4% of our GDP. This recognition highlights her commitment to promoting Italian excellence and supporting the growth of a sector that stands among Italy's key cultural and economic drivers. An appointment that underscores the strategic role of our industry within the global luxury landscape and the relevance of the vision that guides our work every day. Congratulations, Giovanna, on this important milestone.
Benetti Wins Robbs Report Best of the Best 2026
The 44‑metre M/Y Juno’s 7, the flagship of Benetti’s Class range, has been honoured with the prestigious Robb Report US Best of the Best award in the Yachting – Best Motoryacht category. Now in its 38th edition, the annual awards celebrate the pinnacle of international excellence across the luxury sector, spanning automotive, watchmaking, art, and design. This recognition arrives at a strategically significant moment for the Group, as the United States solidifies its position as the leading target market for superyachts. The inclusion of M/Y Juno’s 7 among the winners of the long‑established Robb Report awards underscores the brand’s strong appeal to American owners and further consolidates its global market standing. While the yacht’s refined aesthetics clearly resonated with the jury, Juno’s 7 also stands out for the extensive engineering and technical development carried out by the Shipyard. The naval platform was optimised to maximize the efficiency of the displacement hull while minimizing noise and vibration underway, ensuring exceptional comfort during long passages. Strict weight management and the seamless integration of complex onboard systems also granted the design team ultimate freedom in shaping the guest areas. Both the exterior and interior design are penned by Cassetta Yacht Designers, who reinterpreted Benetti’s classic stylistic heritage through a sleek profile and a gracefully raked bow. Developed in close collaboration with the Owner, the interiors evoke the relaxed atmosphere of a seaside summer residence, eschewing unnecessary ostentation. The decor follows a philosophy of understated sophistication: FSC‑certified woods, such as antique elm for the flooring, are paired with matte ash wall panels. In the bathrooms, continuous resin‑mineral surfaces replace traditional marble to reduce weight without compromising visual impact. Natural stone has been reserved for select statement features, including Bianco Lasa marble in the lobby and custom Forest Green basins. The layout of Juno’s 7 reflects the core strengths of Benetti’s Class family - a range conceived to allow extensive customisation of onboard spaces, making it equally suited to private, intimate cruising or vibrant socializing at sea. The management of volumes and circulation revolves around several key highlights: Generous glazed surfaces, which maximize natural light and create a seamless visual connection between the saloons and the marine environment. A highly functional layout, featuring a gym integrated into the Owner’s suite on the Main Deck, a dedicated VIP cabin on the Upper Deck, and a 102‑square‑metre Sun Deck divided into multiple relaxation areas. A stern beach club, envisioned as a true waterfront terrace dedicated to leisure and water activities. M/Y Juno’s 7 embodies a discreet, yet sophisticated form of luxury, where the true value of the project lies in the purity of its finishes, the genuine liveability of its spaces, and the technical and construction excellence that define the Benetti DNA.
Bilgin Wins Design et Al Awards 2026
The third and final yacht in Bilgin’s acclaimed 263 series is recognised for its evolved design, increased volume and exceptional onboard comfort. Bilgin Yachts is proud to announce that M/Y Al Reem has been named Winner in the Motor Yacht Over 60 Metres category at The Design et Al International Yacht & Aviation Awards 2026, hosted by design et al on Friday 29 May at the Scuola Grande della Misericordia, Venice. Representing the project at the ceremony in Venice, Emrecan Özgün, COO of Bilgin Yachts and Founder of Unique Yacht Design, attended the event to receive the award on behalf of the team. The recognition marks an important international milestone for Al Reem, the third and final yacht in Bilgin’s acclaimed 263 series. “We are truly honoured to receive this recognition for M/Y Al Reem. As the most evolved expression of the Bilgin 263 series, Al Reem brings together strong exterior character, enhanced volume and a deeply refined onboard experience. This award is a proud moment for everyone who contributed to the project,” says Emrecan Özgün. As the final and most highly customised unit of the trilogy, M/Y Al Reem stands as the most advanced evolution of the Bilgin 263 platform to date. Designed with exterior styling and naval architecture by Unique Yacht Design and interiors by H2 Yacht Design, the 80-metre yacht combines greater interior volume, enhanced owner privacy and a more refined connection to the sea, while preserving the sleek and dynamic character that defines the series. This recognition from design et al underlines the strength of the collaboration between Bilgin Yachts, Unique Yacht Design, H2 Yacht Design and all project partners who contributed to bringing this exceptional yacht to life.
CRN Wins Robbs Report Best of the Best 2026
CRN, the Ferretti Group brand dedicated to the design, engineering and construction of fully bespoke steel and aluminium superyachts, has won Robb Report’s “Best of the Best” 2026 Award in the Yachting category for M/Y Amor à Vida, the 67-metre vessel delivered in 2025. Presented annually by Robb Report, one of the world’s most respected luxury lifestyle publications, the “Best of the Best” Awards honour the most exceptional products, experiences and achievements across the global luxury sector. Now in their 38th year, they are regarded as among the highest distinctions in luxury, spanning watches, automobiles, travel, art, design, gastronomy and yachting. Named the finest superyacht of the year, Amor à Vida was recognised for her elegant architecture, sophisticated exterior styling, exceptional craftsmanship and deeply personalised interiors — setting new standards for creativity, innovation and bespoke luxury. For the owner, she is a yacht. For CRN, she is a floating expression of everything the yard believes luxury can be. For CRN, the distinction means more than a single yacht. It is recognition of a culture of excellence built over decades within Ferretti Group — today home to the most iconic portfolio of brands in global yachting. From timeless elegance and craftsmanship to cutting-edge innovation, performance, personalisation, design leadership and owner experience, the expertise of the Group’s seven brands converges in CRN to create some of the most sophisticated and distinctive superyachts in the world. In many ways CRN is the summit of that collective expertise — the place where decades of innovation, design leadership, owner understanding and Italian craftsmanship come together to create the extraordinary. No other house in yachting can draw on a portfolio like it. Commenting on the award, Stassi Anastassov, Chief Executive Officer of Ferretti Group, said: “Robb Report’s ‘Best of the Best’ is far more than an award for a single yacht. It is recognition of an extraordinary culture of excellence built over decades across Ferretti Group. CRN represents the highest expression of everything we have learned as a company about design, engineering, innovation, craftsmanship and the art of creating unforgettable experiences on the water. When an owner commissions a yacht from us, they are not commissioning a hull. They are commissioning the soul of everything we have learned over decades, across every one of our brands — Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Wally, Custom Line and CRN. A yacht like Amor à Vida is what happens when decades of Italian creativity, craftsmanship, engineering and imagination come together in service of a single owner’s dream — a rare ability to transform Italian design culture, lifestyle and luxury know-how into something truly exceptional. What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it celebrates not only technical excellence, but the values that have always defined Italian luxury at its best: beauty, innovation, craftsmanship, emotion and an uncompromising attention to detail. Amor à Vida is a magnificent expression of those values, and we are honoured that Robb Report has recognised not only an extraordinary yacht, but the people, the culture and the pursuit of excellence that made her possible.” M/Y Amor à Vida represents the ultimate expression of CRN’s bespoke philosophy, uniting advanced engineering, state-of-the-art technology, extraordinary customisation and timeless design. The project brought together the expertise of CRN and the Ferretti Group Superyacht Division with the creativity of the internationally renowned design firm Nuvolari Lenard, with bespoke interiors and exceptional detailing developed in collaboration with Valentina Zannier, Interior Art Director at Nuvolari Lenard. Moran Yacht & Ship represented the owner throughout design and construction, and now manages selected charter activity for the vessel. Every aspect of the yacht reflects CRN’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of custom yacht building while holding to the highest standards of quality, innovation and owner satisfaction. The honour further strengthens CRN’s position among the world’s leading builders of fully custom superyachts. More than that, it confirms that the world’s most discerning owners continue to recognise the rare combination of innovation, craftsmanship and Italian soul that defines CRN and Ferretti Group — a reminder that while technologies evolve and markets change, true excellence never goes out of style.
Evo Yachts Celebrates Fortieth Yacht Delivery
Evo Yachts confirms its identity as a boutique shipyard and delivers the 40th yacht in its history. The owner’s choice fell on the Walkaround version of the Evo R4, which is particularly well suited to cruising in the Mediterranean. Different from all its predecessors, the shipyard has designed this boat around the needs and requirements of its owner, resulting in exquisite personalisation. Evo Yachts’ mission has always been to create models that combine total customer satisfaction with an impeccable cruising experience from every perspective. Right from the outset, the brand based in the southern Italian region of Campania has focused its business on bespoke production rather than on standardisation and a high-volume approach, in order to offer owners models on which even the tiniest details are the result of an ongoing dialogue between the shipyard and the customer, one founded on trust and sharing. “The concept of ‘bespoke tailoring’ lies at the core of our identity: every boat we build is designed for the owner like a tailor-made suit. Our approach is very similar to the one used on much larger vessels, where the owner has a say in every detail. We work side-by-side with the customer, discussing every aspect of the design and construction process and putting our experience at the service of their wishes, with the aim of building the boat of their dreams,” explains Rosario Mercuri, one of the founders and owners of Evo Yachts. He adds, “the relationship we establish with owners also encourages some very interesting exchanges, often leading to the development of innovative and original solutions”. Customisation extends to every aspect of the boat, with the aim of exceeding the owners’ expectations. The layout is designed to cater to different on-board lifestyles: for lovers of the outdoor life, the yachts incorporate features that make it easier to enter the water, adding spacious platforms and more room for sunbathing; whereas if the owner’s priority is privacy, the focus is on intimate and cosier but nevertheless functional spaces, featuring innovative interior design solutions. It isn’t just a question of aesthetic changes, but of ensuring that the boat is the perfect fit for the owner’s practical needs, creating a unique personalised experience. Last but not least, each of the materials chosen is in response to a specific necessity: the carbon-fibre hard top on several models is replaced, as needed, with steel, composite or even aluminium components on the latest models, in order to meet specific strength and weight requirements. The consoles can also be finished in teak, carbon-fibre or special fabrics. This versatility in the choice of materials enables us to build yachts that aren’t just aesthetically refined but also offer high performance and durability. Additionally, a growing focus on sustainability is leading many customers to request eco-friendly materials, such as certified timber or recyclable materials, without compromising on the quality, performance and look of a luxury yacht. Every request is handled with the utmost care and attention, always striving to balance aesthetic and functional needs while remaining true to the main challenge: maintaining an equilibrium between personalisation, performance and safety. In line with this approach, the new R4 configured in the Walkaround version for cruising in the Mediterranean stands out for the unprecedented equipment options and design solutions on offer compared to previous units, while continuing to be very easy to use, which is a key feature of Evo Yachts design. Another key concept is transformability, embodied also in this model by the multi-function XT platform, which uses electro-hydraulic mechanisms to expand and reconfigure the spaces on board, transforming the cockpit into a versatile, modular living area. Confirming a period of significant investment, the shipyard recently inaugurated a new production site on the outskirts of Naples – it now covers a total surface area of 6,000 square metres – with the aim of gradually bringing the main production processes in-house and taking direct control of every stage of production, ensuring an even sharper focus on design and innovation.
Frauscher Demo Days 2026
From July 24 to 26, 2026, you will have the opportunity to experience Frauscher in a truly special atmosphere on the Côte d’Azur. On site, a selection of the latest Frauscher models awaits you - accompanied by personal consultation and the chance to discover the brand’s design, performance and craftsmanship up close.
Invictus Yachts Partners with Haier
The partnership made its debut aboard the Invictus TT460 Shell Edition, an even more exclusive version of the former Aschenez Group flagship. Developed in collaboration with designer Fabio Rotella and brought to life by Atelier Invictus, the yacht introduces a fresh vision of both interior and exterior spaces. Completing this reinterpretation is the integration of Haier products on board: the globally renowned home appliance brand that shares with Invictus Yacht a common pursuit of beauty, innovation and technological excellence. Though they come from different industries, the two brands are united by a shared set of values. At the core is a strong customer-first philosophy, driven by technology and expressed through design, backed by significant investment in research and development. The result is a tangible improvement in onboard quality of life — one where aesthetics play as central a role as premium materials, build quality and long-term reliability. Both companies ultimately share the same goal: deepening the trust of their owners and customers, while reinforcing the strength and identity of their respective brands. “The partnership with Invictus Yacht is rooted in a shared vision: both brands place innovation, design and the quality of experience at the heart of everything they do, turning technology into a means of meaningfully enhancing everyday life. For Haier, engineering excellence, innovation and research are the cornerstones of our growth. Ongoing investment in R&D and in the development of advanced technologies has established us as a global leader in home appliances and smart home solutions."
Jarrett Bay Sets Record at 68th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament
As Jarrett Bay Boatworks celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026, the company's fleet of custom sportfishing boats delivered one of the most exciting and dominant performances in Big Rock tournament history. Jarrett Bay-built boats captured $6,553,188 of the tournament's record-setting $9,038,225 purse at the 68th Annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, accounting for 72.5 percent of all prize money awarded during the six-day event. The week was highlighted by the historic performance of the 63-foot Marlin Fever (Hull 51), which captured first place with a 919.9-pound blue marlin weighed on Tuesday, June 9th. Caught by angler Connor Daniel and captained by Cameron Guthrie, the fish established a new Big Rock tournament record as the largest blue marlin ever weighed in the tournament's 68-year history.
All-told, twenty-one Jarrett Bay sportfishing boats entered this year's tournament, representing five decades of custom boatbuilding and a fleet that ranged from Sensation (Hull 1), launched in 1988, to Rebelette (Hull 65), delivered in 2023. While Marlin Fever hoisted the tournament's defining moment, Jarrett Bay boats posted winning performances across multiple categories throughout the week. Among the fleet's top finishers: Marlin Fever (63', Hull 51) - First Place, Blue Marlin Division, Fabulous Fisherman's Division, and Super 20 Division, Watertight (57', Hull 14) - First Place, Overall Tuna Division and Daily Tuna, Magic Moment (55', Hull 27) - First Place, Overall Wahoo Division and Daily Wahoo, Iron Leader (70', Hull 48) - First Place, Daily Dolphin, Developin' Habits (53', Hull 7) - First Place, Daily Blue Marlin Release. Congratulations are also due to Builder's Choice (Hull 59), which brought an impressive 530-pound blue marlin to the scales on Wednesday, which placed 6th. In many years, a fish of its caliber would contend for the tournament title, but during this historic week, it underscored just how extraordinary the fishing and competition was. Collectively, five Jarrett Bay boats reached the payout board across blue marlin, tuna, wahoo, dolphin, and release divisions, showcasing the versatility and competitive success of the fleet across multiple categories. The 2026 Big Rock attracted a near-record 278 boats and produced 331 billfish releases, including 126 Blue Marlin, 120 White Marlin, and 84 Sailfish. For Jarrett Bay, the results carried special significance during a milestone year for the company. The presence of boats spanning from Hull No. 1 through Hull No. 65 highlighted the longevity of the boats and brand, plus the enduring relationships between Jarrett Bay, its owners, captains, fishing families, fans, and the Big Rock Tournament. "As proud as I am of the numbers, what means the most to me is seeing a local boat, a local family, and a local captain accomplish something that people will be talking about for many years," said Randy Ramsey, founder of Jarrett Bay Boatworks. Captain Cameron Guthrie and the Daniel family have invested thousands of hours and miles chasing blue marlin aboard Marlin Fever for over fifteen years, focusing close to home on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast and occasional trips to Bermuda and beyond. “To see them make Big Rock history with a record fish is incredibly special. As the Major Sponsor of the tournament and as a company celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, it's hard to imagine a better week for Jarrett Bay! Watching so many of our owners and crews succeed on the water is a great source of pride, and reminds us what this community is all about.” From record-setting catches to category wins across the leaderboard, the 2026 Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament added another memorable chapter to Jarrett Bay's long history in competitive sportfishing. In a year that marks Jarrett Bay’s 40th anniversary, the week's results underscore the company’s continued presence at the forefront of the sport; proof- positive that Jarrett Bay boats are born to fish and built to win.
Majesty Welcomes Two New Dealers
Majesty extends a warm welcome to Burton Waters as its official dealer in Southern UK, strengthening the brand’s presence across the United Kingdom and expanding client access to its portfolio of luxury yachts and superyachts. Majesty is pleased to announce the appointment of MGM Boats as its official dealer in Ireland, strengthening the brand’s presence across a key European boating market.
Next Group Announces Next Group Turkey with YSC Yacht Sales Center
Next Yacht Group has signed a new strategic partnership with YSC Yacht Sales Center and announced the establishment of “Next Yacht Turkey.” The agreement was established to strengthen Next Yacht Group’s presence in a strategic and rapidly evolving market such as Turkey, where interest in the Maiora and AB Yachts brands continues to grow significantly. Through this collaboration, YSC Yacht Sales Center will operate in Istanbul as the official distributor for the two brands, as well as serving as Next Yacht Group’s official point of reference in Turkey for sales and management, technical support, customer experience, and after-sales services, helping to further strengthen the Group’s presence in one of the Mediterranean’s most significant markets. “This partnership represents a fundamental strategic step in our Group’s international growth,” comments Giorgio Mattei, Deputy Chairman of Next Yacht Group. “Turkey is today an extremely dynamic and receptive market for luxury yachting, and we are proud to collaborate with an authoritative and highly qualified partner such as YSC Yacht Sales Center. The in-depth knowledge of the local market, combined with the extensive international experience of Mehmet Soydan and his team, is a key element in consolidating the presence of Maiora and AB Yachts in Turkey and ensuring our customers receive top-tier service, in line with the Group’s values and standards.” “We are very pleased to take on the representation in Turkey of two world-renowned brands such as Maiora and AB Yachts,” said Mehmet Soydan, founder and owner of YSC Yacht Sales Center. “The establishment of Next Yacht Turkey and Next Yacht Service Point Turkey represents a significant confirmation of Turkey’s strategic role in the luxury yachting sector. Thanks to our thirty years of experience, we will work to ensure that Next Yacht Group has a solid, qualified, and high-profile presence in the market.” The agreement with YSC Yacht Sales Center marks another step in the Group’s commercial expansion, which in recent months has seen the establishment of Next Yacht Spain, Next Yacht Adriatic, and Next Yacht Germany. Each partner is dedicated to driving commercial development and market growth within their respective territory, having been meticulously selected and authorized for their proven capabilities in the sale and service of luxury yachts over 24 meters. The shipyard’s strategic vision is not only to provide extensive Sales and Marketing coverage, but above all to establish a strong and reliable Service & Assistance network across the entire Mediterranean area through its own Service Points.
Riva Lounge Opens at Borgo Santandrea
With views over one of the world’s most beautiful locations, set against the deep blue Mediterranean Sea and the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the new Riva Lounge has opened at Borgo Santandrea, the exclusive five-star hotel in Amalfi. A splendid emblem of Italian hospitality, Borgo Santandrea overlooks the sea from a spectacular vantage point, combining sophisticated aesthetics of 1960s Italian design with the excellence of local craftsmanship. The new Riva Lounge welcomes guests into a sophisticated setting where fine materials, curated details and exclusive atmospheres evoke the distinctive beauty of Riva yachts. Polished mahogany, chrome-plated steel, aquamarine colourways and furnishings inspired by the brand’s unmistakable style work in perfect harmony with the Mediterranean splendour of Borgo Santandrea, creating an exclusive setting for drinks at sunset, social gatherings and evenings spent soaking in the view. Rounding out the experience, guests have the chance to embark on magnificent private cruises aboard a Riva Cento, the special limited-edition open yacht, available for unforgettable excursions along the Amalfi Coast to discover picturesque coves, or for magical aperitifs at sunset out to sea. In addition, dedicated mooring buoys are available for owners arriving by sea, which can be reserved by contacting the property. The new Riva Lounge at Borgo Santandrea joins the other exclusive Riva Destinations in the Mediterranean's most renowned locations, including the Lounges at Gritti Palace in Venice, the Yacht Club de Monaco in Monte Carlo, the Miori gastro destination in Göcek, the Hotel de Mar Gran Meliá in Mallorca and the Hotel Monte Mulini in Rovinj, the Riva Private Deck at the Yacht Club Eriolario on Lake Como, and the Riva Privées at the Splash Bistrot in Paris, at Daní Maison in Ischia, at the Osteria Spirito di Vino in Lovere on Lake Iseo, and at the Jeddah Yacht Club in Saudi Arabia.
Sanlorenzo and BYD Energy Form Strategic Partnership
Sanlorenzo advances its vision for sustainable yachting, announcing a strategic partnership with BYD Energy Storage, the world’s foremost innovator in battery and energy storage technology, designed to support the next generation of low-impact yachting solutions. Marking another significant milestone in the company’s Road to 2030 sustainability strategy, the collaboration brings together Sanlorenzo’s leadership in sustainable luxury yachting innovation with BYD Energy Storage’s globally recognised expertise in advanced battery systems, energy management technologies, and large-scale electrification solutions. The partnership establishes a long-term strategic collaboration, including an ongoing research and development programme focused on exploring how advanced energy storage technologies can contribute to a new generation of quieter, lower-impact and more intelligently managed yachts — anticipating the evolving expectations of owners increasingly seeking sustainability, comfort, performance, and extended onboard autonomy without compromise. The agreement also establishes BYD Energy Storage as Technology Supplier and Official Battery Supplier to Sanlorenzo. Massimo Perotti, Executive Chairman of Sanlorenzo, said: “Innovation and sustainability are inseparable for Sanlorenzo. Partnering with a global technology leader such as BYD Energy Storage represents another important step in our long-term vision to shape a more responsible and technologically advanced future for yachting. “Following our renewed commitment to advancing sustainable technologies announced during Venice Climate Week, this latest collaboration allows us to explore new possibilities in energy storage and electrification while continuing to develop solutions capable of reducing the environmental impact of yachts on the water.” Tony Jiang, Director of BYD Marine Battery Product Line, added: “Sanlorenzo represents one of the most forward-thinking and design-led brands in the global yachting industry. We are proud to support their sustainability vision through our advanced battery technologies and look forward to collaborating on future innovation opportunities within the maritime sector.” Globally recognised for its proprietary battery innovation, advanced lithium iron phosphate (LFP) systems, and large-scale energy storage expertise, BYD Energy Storage has become a significant force in the evolution of next-generation mobility and industrial electrification. The agreement reflects growing momentum behind the application of advanced battery technologies within the maritime sector and reinforces Sanlorenzo’s ambition to remain at the forefront of sustainable innovation within luxury yachting. The partnership reflects a broader transformation underway within the luxury yachting sector, where future owners are increasingly seeking solutions that combine performance, comfort, efficiency, and environmental responsibility without compromise. As onboard energy demands continue to evolve, advanced battery and energy storage technologies are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping more sustainable yachting experiences. Through the collaboration, Sanlorenzo and BYD Energy Storage will explore how next-generation battery systems and energy management solutions can support the development of lower-impact yachting platforms, while preserving the design, comfort, and lifestyle experience that define the brand. The partnership forms part of Sanlorenzo’s wider ambition to anticipate the changing expectations of a new generation of owners increasingly focused on innovation, sustainability, and long-term responsibility. The partnership further strengthens Sanlorenzo’s Road to 2030 sustainability programme, which continues to drive investment across green methanol, reformer systems for the hydrogen production, hybrid propulsion technologies, and broader innovation designed to support the long-term transformation of the yachting industry.
Viking on NBC News
NBC News recently highlighted the Whale and Vessel Safety (WAVS) Taskforce, a Viking initiative, and its work using artificial intelligence, sensors, cameras and predictive mapping to help captains better detect and avoid whales. The report comes as NOAA reviews public input on potential changes to the 2008 Vessel Speed Rule, which limits vessels 65 feet or larger to 10 knots in designated seasonal areas. For Viking, today’s technology is the strongest proof point that the rule should be modernized. Real-time detection, predictive mapping and onboard alerts can help protect North Atlantic right whales while improving safety and access on the water. The NBC report features WAVS Chair John DePersenaire, Viking’s Director of Government Affairs and Sustainability, and WAVS team member Todd Tally, General Manager of Atlantic Marine Electronics.
Viking at Cajuns Canyons Billfish Classic
Metal Masher topped the leaderboard at the Cajun Canyons Billfish Classic in Venice, Louisiana. With Captain Landon Bell at the helm of the Viking 72, Teddy Tinney released three blue marlin, and Baker Tinney added two blue marlin and one white marlin. Metal Masher claimed 1st Place Release Team, 1st Place Billfish Boat, 1st Place Crew, and Baker was named Top Junior Angler. Currie Cooper, fishing on the Viking 80 CE, weighed the Top Dolphin at 29.8 pounds. Jaselyn Berthelot, aboard the Viking 58 Rising Son’s, angled a 20.5-pound wahoo, which took 2nd Place in that category.
Viking at HMY Lowcountry Cup
The Viking 61 Rascal secured a 3rd Place Billfish Release Points finish at the HMY Lowcountry Cup. Captain Mark Rogers put the team on two blue marlin, one white marlin and seven sailfish. Maizey Blue, a Valhalla 46, weighed the Heaviest Tuna – an 18.6-pound blackfin. The Heaviest Wahoo, 41.3 pounds, was caught on the Viking 50 Higher Limits. The Viking 56 Syked Out took 2nd Heaviest Mahi and 3rd Heaviest Wahoo at 40 and 26 pounds, respectively. The 4th edition of the Lowcountry Cup saw 42 boats release 69 billfish, including 28 blues, one white and 40 sails.
Viking at Walker's Cay Blue Marlin Bash
Exodus, a Viking 82, won the 1st annual Walker’s Cay Blue Marlin Bash. Courtney Hueston claimed Top Angler honors. The Viking 68 Ohana was the 2nd Place Team. Kodi Smith, fishing on the Viking 80 Surf Bum, was the Top Professional Angler. The Blue Marlin Bash is a one-day event that shines the spotlight on lady and junior anglers.
Viking at Mississipi Gulf Coast Billfish Class
Sporty seas didn’t deter the Viking fleet at the Mississippi Gulf Coast Billfish Classic. Anglers still found the fish, including Billy Stimpson, who caught the tournament's Second Heaviest blue marlin, a 509.1-pounder aboard the Viking 68 Miss Virginia, with Justin Gallagher at the helm. Boujee Marlin, a Viking 62, earned Top Billfish Release Boat honors. Captain Hunter Smith put Gregg Trenor on six blue marlin for the title. Josh Tice, fishing aboard his Viking 60 Devotion, weighed both the First and Third Heaviest Tuna at 177.5 and 143.5 pounds, respectively. In the Wahoo Division, Michael Hawkins, fishing on the Viking 70 Done Deal, claimed the Second Heaviest at 33.6 pounds. The Third Heaviest, weighing 27.7 pounds, was caught by Jonathan Holder aboard the Viking 65 Heads N Tails. Harrison Stewart reeled in the Second Heaviest Dolphin at 38.5 pounds while fishing aboard the Viking 74 Fins. The field recorded 106 fish, including 69 blues, seven whites, a pair of sailfish, 19 tuna, four wahoo and five dolphin.
Viking at Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament
Savannah Leigh, a Viking 65, got the action started with the first blue marlin weighed at the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament. Mike Putnam brought in a 439.2-pound fish on Day One. It was a family affair aboard the Viking 54 TripleHeader. Brandon Whitehead caught the Second Heaviest Tuna at 60.7 pounds, while his brother, Justin Whitehead, landed the 3rd Place Tuna weighing 57.2 pounds. The Second Heaviest Dolphin, registering 63 pounds, was caught by Kenny Hernandez on the Viking 62 Remix Main Stage. More than 270 boats fished the Big Rock for a purse exceeding $9 million.











