-pic of the month- Wajer Start of 2023 Season
Bayliss Wins at Destin Flathead Classic
Congratulations to the owner, captain and crew on m/y Lucky Dog Bayliss 57 for their win in the Destin Flathead Classic this past weekend. 31 boats and 9 pier fishermen competed in the tournament out of Destin, FL with $108,000 on the line. Lucky Dog found the top of the leader-board bringing in the only qualifying cobia over 45 lbs., with a 47.5 lb. fish caught by Miller Phillips on the last day of fishing. Lucky Dog recently left the Bayliss Boatyard after she was repowered, upgraded to MAN V12-1550CR engines with Twin Disc controls. During that time she also received a new Furuno Omni Sonar, new teak coverboards and coaming, as well as interior modifications.
Benetti Triumphs in Yachting Oscars
The award-winning Oasis 34M establishes a connection with the water and nature through the Oasis Deck®, an extraordinary area that redefines the human relationship with the sea. The 18th BOAT International World Superyacht Awards held in Istanbul on May 20th were a triumph for Benetti Oasis 34M “UNKNOWN”, which won best motor yacht in the category “Displacement motor yachts 499gt and below, 30m to 39.99m” for being a “was a well-built, ground-breaking yacht that fits extraordinary features into its compact size”. The judges admired the open beach sensation created in the aft deck, feeling that no other yacht could match this highly desirable deck. Unknown is, in the judges’ opinion, a yacht that makes an excellent connection with the ocean and the open air.
Bering with Nautistyles
Bering are excited to announce that we are joining forces with yachting industry professionals, captains, and founders of the worlds' most watched yacht walkthrough YouTube channel, Rico Stoll & Victoria Chalaya of NautiStyles. The YachtTubing power couple recently started a new channel NautiGuys to document their journey as they build their own charter capable Bering 75. Now, they are thrilled to represent Bering Yachts as they oversee operations for the Bering Team in North & South America as well as the Caribbean.
Cranchi Cares Program Sardinia
Technical support is a key part of Cranchi Yachts’ offering. The entire network of Cranchi dealers, present around the world, provides support through specialised centres and personnel. The Shipyard also offers services for check-ups on and refitting of yachts directly through the two facilities of its Marine Division: the Darsena Bellagio in the upper Adriatic, and the new Cranchi Cares Sardinia, near Olbia and the Costa Smeralda. Teams of technicians trained by the Shipyard work at the two facilities, making use of ultra-modern equipment including travel lifts rated to over 100 tonnes and special trolleys for handling and moving the boats. Both centres are served by excellent transport infrastructure, with ports and airports nearby.
Feadship Wins Three Prizes at Boat International SuperYacht Awards
Feadship won three prestigious prizes at the 2023 BOAT International World Superyacht Awards (WSA) on Saturday 20 May. Callisto outshone her rivals in a fiercely competitive category to take home the Neptune award for ‘best semi-displacement motoryacht 42m and above’, while Shinkai received a Neptune to denote a Judges’ Special Award. And Feadship’s third nomination was also awarded with a prize: Juice received a Judges’ Commendation. “Nowadays Feadship is known for large custom yachts of the finest quality but the two Neptunes and the Judges’ Commendation at this year’s World Superyacht Awards gala show that it is not always about size,” said Bas Nederpelt, Feadship Sales Director, who attended the 18th annual edition of the BOAT International World Superyacht Awards took place from 19-20 May 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. The World Superyachts Awards recognise the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the most remarkable luxury yachts from across the world.
Ferretti Group Wins Legal Management of the Year Award
Ferretti Group, world leader in the design and construction of motor yachts and pleasure boats, has for the second year running won the “Legal Management of the Year” prize in the Fashion and Luxury category at the Top Legal Corporate Counsel Awards, the highly regarded event created to celebrate excellence among the previous year’s stand-out corporate teams. The criteria used to evaluate the corporate professionals are the principles of innovation and sustainable business development. The award ceremony took place during a gala evening held last May 18th at the Principe di Savoia hotel in Milan, and in addition to the “Legal Management of the Year” award, several members of the Group’s team were 2023 finalists in in the following categories: Niccolò Pallesi as General Counsel, Roberto Ramilli as Tax Director, Andrea Brasini, as an HR Director and Veronica Martoni as Chief Compliance Officer.
Ferretti Group Privilege Days in Shenzen
The Ferretti Group Privilege Day and Ferretti Yachts 1000 China Premiere Ceremony was held at the Shenzhen Bay Marina Club and the Sea World Culture and Arts Center. As a world leader in the luxury yacht industry, Ferretti Group displayed six luxury yachts delivered to Shenzhen, China in recent years, including Ferretti Yachts 1000, Ferretti Yachts 920, Ferretti Yachts 780, Ferretti Yachts 670, Riva 110’ Dolcevita and Riva 90’ Argo. As the new flagship of the Ferretti Yachts brand, Ferretti Yachts 1000 made her China premiere at this feast above the sea where the Group brings together the most superyacht models in mainland China in its history. A Chinese old saying tells that it is such a delight to have friends coming from afar. Taking the pun of “Yue” which means both joy and music in Chinese, a grand ceremony dubbed “Joy Above the Sea” began in the evening in the melodious and grand symphony of the Shenzhen City Philharmonic Orchestra. Yacht owners and VIP guests attended the ceremony to appreciate the manufacturing art of the world's top yachts and enjoy the elegant and extraordinary Italian luxury nautical lifestyle. At the gala, a fleet of drones rose into the air, producing stunning forms above the Ferretti yachts fleet, finally forming the major attraction of the event - the magnificent “Ferretti Yachts 1000”. The new flagship of the Ferretti Yachts brand offers owners and guests unmatched nautical enjoyment with its exceptional performance, flawless fusion of modern technology and traditional skills, distinctive exterior design, and spacious, opulent interiors. Top management of Ferretti Group and Speedo Marine, the Group’s exclusive dealer in mainland China, welcomed yacht owners onto the stage during the acknowledgment session to present them with exquisite customized presents in appreciation for their love and support to Ferretti Group brands over the years. “This is a fantastic moment for Ferretti Group and its seven brands. The Chinese market is experiencing rapid growth and more and more owners are choosing the beauty, heritage and innovation of our magnificent boats. This spectacular event is an extraordinary debut for our flagship Ferretti Yachts 1000, consolidating the fame and success of our comprehensive and inimitable range.” said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. In 2022, Ferretti Group was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, which was not only the first yacht manufacturer to list its shares in Hong Kong, but also the only Italian company listed in Hong Kong in the last decade. Looking ahead, Ferretti Group is prepared to embrace new development opportunities in the fast-growing luxury yacht market by leveraging its far-leading industry position and unique Italian yachting essence to unleash the full potential of its world-class brands - Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, CRN, Custom Line and Wally. Through auxiliary services including yacht brokerage, lease, after sale, and refit, together with a one-stop strategic upgrade program, Ferretti Group will further reinforce its growing momentum. The Group will keep delivering yachts with “authentic Italian luxury” to owners all around the world, creating greater value for its shareholders. At the gala, Ferretti Group was joined by both Italian and international luxury partners to display the supreme and comfortable Italian premium lifestyle: Magnificat was one of them, adding radiance to the yachts on display together with some high-end Italian furniture, lighting and bedding brands including Rugiano, Elie Saab, Agresti, Contardi, Bluemarine Home, and its partner, Fuli Carpet. LOCHERBER, an Italian luxury fragrance brand, offered exclusive and customized Venetian sea-toned fragrance on board. MHD’s Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, Kaluga Queen, and top Italian coffee brand Lavazza brought exquisite food and drink experiences to this event.
Ferretti Group Approves 31 March 2023 Results
The Board of Directors (the “Board”) of Ferretti SpA today reviewed and approved the Group’s consolidated financial results for the first quarter of 2023. Order intake of €307.5 million in the first three months of 2023. Revenue of €280.3 million, an increase of 9.3% when compared to Q1 2022. Adjusted EBITDA of €40.0 million in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 26.6% when compared to Q1 2022 and with a margin equivalent to 14.3%, representing an increase of 130 basis points when compared to Q1 2022. Net profit of €18.6 million. Net Financial Position equivalent to €301 million of net cash. “The luxury yacht market continues to see strong expansion and, once again, Ferretti Group shows vision and foresight, as witnessed by the important acquisition of Cantiere San Vitale, in Ravenna, the cornerstone of a future-looking growth strategy. The huge interest shown by the financial community after the Group’s first Capital Markets Day, and the very positive financial results reported in Q1 2023, are another demonstration of our solidity and confirm once again that our shareholders and our customers were right to place their confidence in us,” said Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. Order intake: €307.5 million in Q1 2023. Order backlog: €1,496.3 million as of 31 March 2023, representing an increase of approximately 15.4% when compared to 31 December 2022 (€1,295.6 million) as a result of strong demand on international markets. Order Backlog by Segment: Composite yachts reached €489.9 million as of 31 March 2023, which is equivalent to approximately 32.7% of total backlog as of 31 March 2023. Made-to-measure yachts reached €549.1 million as of 31 March 2023, which is equivalent to approximately 36.7% of total backlog as of 31 March 2023. Super yachts reached €384.6 million as of 31 March 2023, which is equivalent to approximately 25.7% of total backlog as of 31 March 2023. Other businesses[1] reached €72.7 million, which is equivalent to approximately 4.9% of total backlog as of 31 March 2023. Revenue: €280.3 million in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 9.3% when compared to Q1 2022 (€256.4 million) attributable to the strong order backlog built in 2022. Composite yachts reached €147.3 million, which is equivalent to approximately 52.6% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €109.8 million, which is equivalent to approximately 42.8% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Made-to-measure yachts reached €99.9 million, which is equivalent to approximately 35.6% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €96.1 million, which is equivalent to approximately 37.5% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Super yachts reached €18.1 million, which is equivalent to approximately 6.4% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €24.7 million, which is equivalent to approximately 9.6% of the total revenue in Q1 2022) Other businesses[2] reached €15.0 million, which is equivalent to approximately 5.4% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €25.8 million, which is equivalent to approximately 10.1% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Revenue by Geographical Region[3]: North America, Central America and South America region (“AMAS”) reached €80.0 million, which is equivalent to approximately 28.6% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €70.1 million which is equivalent to approximately 27.3% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Europe, Middle East and Africa region (“EMEA”) reached €135.2 million, which is equivalent to approximately 48.2% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €120.3 million, which is equivalent to approximately 46.9% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Asia-Pacific region (“APAC”) reached €32.0 million, which is equivalent to approximately 11.4% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €15.6 million, which is equivalent to approximately 6.1% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Other and Super yachts[4] reached €33.1 million, which is equivalent to approximately 11.8% of the total revenue in Q1 2023 (from €50.5 million, which is equivalent to approximately 19.7% of the total revenue in Q1 2022). Adjusted EBITDA[5]: €40.0 million in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 26.6% when compared to Q1 2022 (€31.6 million) and with a margin[6] equivalent to 14.3% in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 130 basis points when compared to Q1 2022 (13.0%). This remarkable improvement is linked to three main reasons: Commercial: a longer waiting list thanks to the high order backlog, reflecting a higher pricing power. Strategic positioning: a larger presence in the most profitable segment, such as made-to-measure. Industrial: economy of scale in purchasing and a more efficient fixed costs absorption. Net Profit: €18.6 million in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 42.0% from Q1 2022 (€13.1 million) and with a margin[7] equivalent to 6.6% in Q1 2023, representing an increase of 120 basis points when compared to Q1 2022 (5.4%). Capex: €59.0 million, of which approximately €40.0 million for the acquisition of Cantiere San Vitale in Ravenna, leading to an additional capacity of approximately 20% at fully operating status. Net Financial Position: €301 million of net cash from €365 million of net cash as of 31 December 2022.
Horizon Orders New 3D Printing and 5-Axis CNC Machine
Following on its commitment to continuous innovation and investment in new technology, and introduced in tandem with the company’s recent $15M facilities expansion, the Horizon Group has incorporated Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing into its manufacturing process and upgraded its PaR Systems 5-Axis CNC Machine. The new SLA 3D printing facility is intended to create scale models of a client’s yacht, as well as custom seating areas, storage and deck sections for individual yachts in build. The 5-Axis CNC machine can operate 24/7 at high speeds with autonomous positioning and wireless spindle head adjustment, which helps accelerate production and increases the capabilities for precision processing technology and innovative applications.
Kadey-Krogen Group Acquires American Tugs
The Kadey-Krogen Group, builder of the world class series of Krogen trawlers and the performance cruising brand Summit Motoryachts, announced today that it has acquired LaConner, Washington, based American Tugs. American Tugs was founded in 1999 by marine industry veterans who recognized the need for high-quality, U.S. built coastal cruisers. The company achieved instant success and benefits from a loyal customer base in North Amercian and Europe. Today, American Tugs builds five models ranging from 36 to 48 feet, and has delivered more than 250 cruising boats to date, as well as five commercial vessels, from its 28,000 square foot facility in LaConner. “It’s really an exciting opportunity for us to acquire such a successful boatbuilder, led by a team that we’ll be collaborating with on day one,” says Tucker West, Kadey-Krogen Group President. “They have a healthy backorder of boats, a great reputation in this market, and most importantly a customer base that really loves their American Tugs. We immediately identified how our companies will complement each other and, most importantly, how the customers will benefit. This includes expanded distribution for American Tugs through Kadey-Krogen’s sales offices in Portsmouth, R.I.; Annapolis, Md.; Seattle, Wash., and Stuart, Fla. We are also working with American Tugs leadership to expand service and refit offerings for Krogen and Summit customers at their LaConner facility and leverage their west coast sales.” Additionally, the company will explore leveraging the opportunities for sales in the Great Lakes region through their existing relationship with Mid-West-based yacht broker Schwartz & Co. Yacht Sales. The acquisition will not affect production of either the American Tugs, Krogen, or Summit brands, and The Kadey-Krogen Group plans to continue to market each brand separately. “We are certainly looking at ways of combining forces on the production side where it makes sense,” said Fran Morey, Kadey-Krogen Group Production Manager. “Initially we see opportunities through purchasing, and even on tooling on new models. American Tugs has a worldclass team of engineers and builders, and we’re looking forward to working with them to create some incredible boats. It’s a win-win.” American Tugs co-founder and current CEO, Kurt Dilworth, will remain on the team, as will Jeff Calvert, who currently manages sales. “This is an incredible opportunity to complete the marriage of two companies that strive to be best in class and together have more than 71 years of boatbuilding experience,” says Kurt. “That’s tough to beat.” American Tugs was advised by Anchors Aweigh Capital, led by Skip Sorenson.
Karnic Thirty Year Anniversary
It is exactly 30 years ago on 24 May 1993 since Karnic Powerboats Ltd began operations as a company specialising in the design and building of powerboats. It is a three decade voyage through calm as well as wavy waters that enabled us to develop as professionals, meet people, form relationships, fulfil dreams. An enjoyable voyage empowered by our passion to design, innovate, manufacture, study and compete. We would like to thank every single dealer or distributor for their belief, trust and continuing support over the years which enabled us to grow our brand and enhance our presence in so many parts of the world. We also express our sincere thanks to our suppliers for listening, supporting and providing solutions in good as well as difficult times. Of course, a big Ęąthank youĘą and respect is owed to all individuals who honoured us by purchasing a Karnic thus providing solid contribution in the evolvement of our company. Equally, we thank all Karnic enthusiasts for believing and indirectly assisting the establishment of our brand.
MJM Adds Build Your Boat Tool
MJM have added all the specs and pricing for each MJM model on the website. With the Build-A-Yacht tool one can select colours and options, see a pricing quote, and download a rendering of the MJM he created.
Nordhavn Does One More Ocean Crossing
Spirit of Ulysses, an ocean-crossing 2007 Nordhavn 76, just transited the Panama Canal on its way from Fort Lauderdale to Australia. The Nordhavn’s latest trip will take two months and cover almost 9,900 nm before it reaches its newest home in Perth. It left Fort Lauderdale on May 2, stopped in Key West and then cruised on to Panama. Next stops: The Galapagos, Samoa, Fiji, and then Brisbane. Hull number eight of the 76 series, Spirit of Ulysses has already cruised the Pacific from Alaska to New Zealand, transited the Panama Canal to the Atlantic and then made a transatlantic run to Spain. In early 2021, Mike Ridgway, a New Zealand software executive, bought it (it was the first boat he ever owned), and then, with a veteran crew, crossed the Atlantic to Barbados that December. As it turned out, Kris Townend, an Australian and a veteran boat owner, had been following Ridgway’s videos of his journey. He and his wife Amy started boating with a 21-foot bow rider when they were married in 2011. Over the years, their family grew to include five children, and they moved up to a 35-foot Maxum and a 48-foot Sea Ray. But an ocean-crossing cruiser, particularly a Nordhavn, was always on the horizon. Last year, Townend sold his business; this February he bought Spirit of Ulysses in Fort Lauderdale. He wanted it for its seaworthiness, long range and luxurious accommodations. The original idea was the Townend would stay on board for the entire trip (he hired a professional captain) and he and his son Liam, 10, were on board all the way from the start through the Panama Canal. But then Townend faced a sudden business problem and they had to fly home; Townend will rejoin the boat in Fiji. Once Spirit of Ulysses gets to Perth, the whole family will move on board. Their plans are to explore the waters around Australia for a while, particularly the Whitsunday Islands, and then move on to Asia.
Princess Spring Owners Holiday
From April 20th to 24th, Princess Yachts America hosted their annual Princess Spring Owners Holiday in magnificent Harbour Island at the beautiful Valentines Resort and Marina. The event marked the 20th Owners Holiday since Princess Yachts America began hosting them. It was the largest gathering to date, with 50 Princess Yachts, 60 Princess owners and a total of over 400 attendees. The festivities kicked off with a Welcome In celebration on the dock featuring a private fireworks showcase over the marina. Throughout five days, a full agenda of events was enjoyed by all, highlighted by the inaugural “Knot So Grand” Prix poker run/golf cart decorating, a perfect beach day, competitive pickleball tournament and a capstone celebration dinner featuring a traditional Bahamian junkanoo parade. Look for the Princess Yachts America fleet of owners this summer as they head to Provincetown, Massachusetts, for the Princess Summer Owners Holiday from July 20th to 23rd!
Sirena Delivers Thirtieth 58 to USA
Istanbul-based shipyard Sirena Yachts has announced that the latest unit of its Sirena 58 yacht will shortly be delivered to the US. Ordered in 2022, this is the 30th Sirena 58 to arrive in the USA out of a total of 58 units built so far, representing just over 50% of the model’s production. Recently arriving from Turkey, the Sirena 58 will soon be loaded onto a ship and head towards her final destination of California. With another seven Sirena 58s currently on order for the USA, the model has proven to be a major hit in the USA, attracting North American owners for many different reasons. Sporting naval architecture and exterior styling by German Frers and interior design by renowned Italian designer Tommaso Spadolini, the Sirena 58 is available in three different layout options, to meet the needs and preferences of discerning owners.
Sunreef Wins German Innovation Award
Sunreef Yachts is delighted to inform that the Sunreef 80 Eco has won the German Innovation Award 2023. As an outstanding innovation achievement, the luxury eco-catamaran received an award in the Excellence in Business 2 Consumer category. The German Innovation Award is an annual award that recognizes and honors innovative products, services, and business models across various industries worldwide.
Sunreef Appoints Two New Dealers
Sunreef Yachts announces the signing of 2 important dealers which reflects the growing popularity of the company’s catamaran model range across the globe. A new agency agreement with Apollo Yachts LLC was signed for the territory of South America, Central America, and Canada. This agreement will see Apollo Yachts become the exclusive sales representative for Sunreef Yachts in these regions. Apollo Yachts is a well-established yacht brokerage with a strong track record in the sale and marketing of luxury yachts. The company has a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing their clients with the best possible service. AJ Blackmon, CEO of Apollo Yachts commented: Sunreef is a leading manufacturer of luxury catamarans, known for their innovative design and construction. The company's yachts are popular with discerning owners who appreciate their spaciousness, comfort, and performance. This new agency agreement is of significant importance for Apollo Yachts. It will allow Apollo Yachts to offer its clients a wider range of luxury catamarans, while also providing Sunreef with a strong presence in key markets. Sunreef Yachts has appointed Alina Yachts as exclusive dealer in Serbia. The company was founded by serial entrepreneurs Alex Alpert and Nina Pelicic and has deep ties to the region. They have a background in building technology companies which they plan to leverage to reach this expanding market. They have turned their focus to yachting and helping people fulfill their dreams of living on the water. Nina Pelicic, managing director of Alina Yachts, commented: The demand for luxury products has been growing significantly in Serbia and now is the perfect time to introduce the Balkans to Sunreef Yachts. Growing up on the water, I realized that people were missing a truly customized luxury experience. Sunreef’s combination of luxury and custom designs allows people to spend more time on the water and create their dream yacht. Following the two dealer appointments, Francis Lapp, CEO of Sunreef Yachts, commented: We take great pride in welcoming Apollo Yachts LLC and Alina Yachts to the Sunreef Yachts family, and we anticipate a fruitful and enduring partnership with them. With the increasing interest in yachting and our catamaran models, it was essential to collaborate with seasoned partners who can assist us in delivering a comprehensive customer experience.
Van Der Valk Wins 2023 Boat International World Superyacht Award
“A very pleasant all-rounder that certainly met the owner’s challenge,” was how the judges of this year’s World Superyacht Awards described Blue Jeans. Despite being up against four other superb nominations in the ‘Semi-displacement or planing motoryacht 30 to 34.99m’ category, Van der Valk’s fully custom entry won by a significant margin in a secret ballot of the independent panel of 23 current and former superyacht owners. You can see from the photos what it meant to the team behind this 34-metre beauty as they stood on the stage to accept the coveted Neptune trophy in Istanbul on Saturday 20 May. Winning this award is a testimony to the yard, Guido de Groot’s design team, the naval architects Diana Yacht Designand above all the vision of the owners of Blue Jeans. They came to Van der Valk seeking a fast vessel with a high level of seaworthiness, stability and manoeuvrability, challenging us to surprise them with what we could do. The results certainly impressed the judges, as their report makes clear. “They admired her striking appearance, her comfortable cruising speed of 25 knots, her spacious maintenance-friendly engine room, high-quality build and optimum layout.”
Viking Soundings Trade Only
Gary Reich, editor-in-chief of Soundings Trade Only, recently spent time at the Viking manufacturing plant speaking with women boatbuilders for an upcoming article. Women have always had a strong presence in Viking’s workforce. The COVID crisis saw an increase in the female population since women who were in the hospitality industry lost jobs – but still wanted to work. Viking’s Human Resources Department appealed to those women to “Come join our team, we will teach you a skill and provide a career.”
Viking Takes First Place in First Tournament
Norman Sabga’s Afunday won the Marlin Madness International Billfish Tournament (based out of Charlotteville, Tobago) with five blue marlin, 14 sails and a pair of dolphin. Norman took delivery of his Viking 80 in early spring, and this was the first tournament he fished on the new yacht. “The boat performed beautifully,” Norman said. “I was very pleased with how she fished and also the accommodations. And she ran great – we comfortably cruised home at 35+ knots.” He added, “On our pre-fishing day we released eight sailfish.”
Viking at Salt Life Blue Water Tournament
Team Half-A-Buc won the Salt Life Bluewater Tournament for the third time in a row. Angler Dominic Shaw, fishing on Daniel Brown’s Viking 64, released a pair of blue marlin for the win. “It was the first blue marlin I’ve ever reeled in, so it felt good,” said Dominic. "The team’s really excited, we did great and are happy with our win.” George Robinson’s Viking 64 Polarizer got the party started with the first blue marlin release of the tournament – which landed them in 2nd Place. The Salt Life Bluewater Tournament is part of the Sport Fishing Championship.
Viking Fights Another New Ten Knots Restriction
Viking and the entire marine industry ramped up their efforts in the Nation’s Capital last week to stop the federal government’s proposed 10-knot restriction along the Eastern Seaboard, while also alerting Congress to a new petition for a similar speed limit in the Gulf of Mexico. Above: Viking Director of Government Affairs and Sustainability, John DePersenaire – speaking to boating and fishing leaders, members of Congress and the media – presented an in-depth report about NOAA Fisheries’ changes to the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule, which would call for a 10-knot speed limit from Massachusetts to Florida. John also provided an update on the progress of the Whale and Vessel Safety (WAVS) Task Force, a Viking initiative consisting of a panel of experts committed to finding technology-based solutions to track marine mammals, particularly the right whale. Finally, he explained that a petition for rulemaking put forth by several environmental groups through NOAA proposes a year-round, 10-knot restriction for all boats in a large region off the of coast Alabama and the Florida panhandle (the core habitat of the Rice’s whale). “We made significant strides in Washington, making policymakers aware of our plight and that we want to be part of a more reasonable, science-based solution,” said John. “But now we have two battles on our hands that call for action from all facets of the boating and fishing community.” These rules, which deny access to the ocean and raise serious safety, privacy and economic impact concerns, are certainly one of the greatest threats recreational boating and fishing has ever faced. Reacting to the Rice’s Whale restriction, Viking President and CEO Pat Healey said: “We’re faced with another speed restriction put forth without our input. It’s craziness. We all have to work together for a solution to help the right whale and Rice’s whale.” Viking and hundreds of marine industry leaders united in Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill for the industry’s premier advocacy event – the American Boating Congress (ABC). Along with John, Viking’s Justin Healey was in the thick of it all, even spending an extra day on Capitol Hill speaking to members of Congress, raising their awareness to the catastrophic impact the speed restrictions would have.
Wajer Start of 2023 Season
On April 16th, Wajer traditional Start of the Season event took place. Wajer couldn’t have wished for a better start, when at the yard in Heeg we christened 20 brand new Wajers before taking off with a fleet of nearly 50 Wajers to the Amstel Hotel in Amsterdam.
Wajer Care Hub in Spain
The Wajer fleet is growing, not only on the Balearic Islands but also along the Spanish mainland. Therefore an official Wajer Care hub was started for the DĂ©nia/Moraira region. A permanent Care team will be there during the sailing season to maintain the Wajers and ensure Wajer owners can enjoy their yacht Without a Worry, or, as they say in Spain: 'sin preocupaciones'.
Wajer Bay Marina
Wajer recently opened its Wajer Bay Marina office at one of Miami’s most desirable spots; former Bentley Bay - Miami South Beach (520 West Avenue). Wajer Bay Marina consists of 16 private slips with boatlifts, all under supervision of a professional dockmaster. The slips and boatlifts are suited for yachts up to 60ft (56.000 lbs).
