Monthly News - January 2009

-pic of the month - Mochi wins Motorboat of the Year

Absolute Wins Croatia Boat of the Year

The Absolute 43 from Italian shipyard Absolute has won the 2009 Croatian Boat of the Year award on behalf of online yachting magazine nauCAT. Now in its seventh year, the awards are judged by a panel of local and international boat builders whose boats are available on the Croatian market. The 13.6m (44ft) Absolute 43 also received the best motorboat award in the 42ft-44ft category.

Aicon Board Auditor Resigns

Aicon, the nautical Group from Messina which operates in the design, construction and marketing of luxury motorboats and yachts, listed on the Standard Segment of the Italian Stock Exchange communicate that the permanent board auditor and the vigilance committee member Giovanni Stella has effective immediately resigned from the roles due to the unexpected difficulties arising from reconciling the commitments of the position with his own personal professional activities.


Albemarle Boats Sold

Albemarle Boats brand part of Brunswick Corp was sold to a North Carolina businessman, according to a local newspaper. Scott McLaughlin, who owns several businesses around the state, including Cypress Cove Marina in Columbia, has purchased the boat company and its manufacturing facility for an undisclosed amount. McLaughlin told the news that it was an all-cash offer, but would not elaborate on the price. Albemarle Boats manufactures fishing boats from 24ft-41ft (7m-12m) from its facility in Edenton, North Carolina, and currently has 23 employees. McLaughlin says the factory has the capacity to build 100 boats per year. Albemarle was part of Brunswick's "Hatteras Collection" division, which is now comprised of the Hatteras and Cabo brands.

Azimut Benetti Group buys Brazil Intermarine

The Azimut-Benetti Group, first private company in the luxury nautical yacht construction, reinforces its position in South America. The company, owned by Paolo Vitelli, has agreed with the heirs of Gilberto Ranalho, owner of Intermarine recently dissapered after an incident, gor buy out of the Brazilian builder. Intermarine is the most important yacht builder in Brazil and controls 60% of boat sales in Brazil. In the nineties Intermarine made an agreement with Azimut for the production and selling of the Italian brand. It is with this agreement that in Brazil today there is a complete fleet of Azimut yachts from 29 to 80 feet. At the moment Intermarine employs 900 persons and has a production area of 20.000 square metres. The finalization of the agreement between Intermarine and Azimut-Benetti Group will happen after the legal authorization and procedure is completed, and does not require immediate cash payment but will be financed with the estimated profits Intermarine developing in the next 5 years.


Ferretti ZF Steercommand A Handling Revolution

Ferretti Yachts and Mochi Craft have chosen BOOT Duesseldorf 2009 as the setting for the presentation of the new, revolutionary ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti steering and manoeuvring system, developed by ZF Marine, a world leader in the production of marine propulsion systems, and customized for the Ferretti Group in close collaboration with AYT (Advanced Yacht Technology), the Ferretti group's naval design and research centre. SteerCommand technology is based on the "steer by wire" system, developed by the aviation industry to provide more precise route-keeping and allow on board weight to be cut. This was then adopted by top-end car manufacturers to control driving stability. In the nautical world it is a feature that appears on sizable yachts like Ferretti Yachts and Mochi Craft models, which can offer this technological innovation through the exceptional collaboration between AYT and ZF. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti embodies the highest levels of technology at the service of the nautical industry, setting new standards in manoeuvrability and comfort in all sailing conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti, in fact, allows yachts to be sailed and manoeuvred in total safety at any speed. The servo-assisted movement of the two rudders and the ability to differentiate between the toe-in and toe-out rudder angles provides unprecedented manageability, involving: faster rudder response, tighter turning radius, maximum safety in any sea conditions, automatic back-to-zero steering wheel positioning, maximum smooth control with active feedback to the helm, easier manoeuvring when mooring, variation of angle between rudders as a function of boat speed. In order to increase comfort and handling stability even further, the ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti active feedback dynamically varies the turning resistance of the helm wheel according to the yacht's speed, while at lower speeds it makes steering smoother and easier, facilitating mooring operations. Steering comfort is further enhanced by ZF's innovative Joystick Manoeuvring System (JMS). The JMS provides electronic control of motors, stern and bow thrusters. An electronic control system allows the craft to be moved in any direction by moving the joystick. Approaching a quay, 360° on-the-spot rotation and other manoeuvres that are complicated to execute using the traditional control levers become extremely simple operations, as the electronic JMS system provides precise throttle control and smooth engagement of the drives. The innovative Joystick Maneuvering System (JMS) by ZF now also ensures outstandingly effective handling for shaft line yachts of any dimension, even in difficult sea and weather conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti will also limit considerably roll while turning, even at high speeds, through constant, independent management of the rudders, ensuring comfort and safety under way. The entire system is designed to withstand high workloads and has been tested to be safe, reliable and function without interruption, ensuring excellent performance even under the most adverse conditions. ZF SteerCommand for Ferretti will initially be installed on board of Ferretti Yachts (Ferretti 510, Ferretti 592, Ferretti 631) and Mochi Craft models (Long Range 23, Dolphin 54'). It is an exceptional innovation that reflects the philosophy of excellence shared by the two Ferretti group yards.


Hatteras Lays off Half of its Workforce

Hatteras Yachts said in a statement that it has restructured its operations in the face of one of the most difficult marine environments in decades. The company has cut 330 workers, just slightly more than half of its workforce. Hatteras Yachts chairman Bill Naumann, who was brought back from retirement to oversee the reorganisation, told the New Bern Sun Journal that the company is redesigning its business model. Hatteras previously employed about 1,400 people in New Bern and had a facility in Swansboro, North Carolina it closed down last January that employed 200 workers. In December, it sold its Albemarle facility in Edenton, North Carolina, to a North Carolina businessman. With the job cuts, the New Bern facility now has 295 to 300 workers. Meyer said he hopes to rehire most of the laid off workers when the industry rebounds. Naumann added that Hatteras would work more closely with its dealers to reduce current inventory levels. Part of the reorganisation was also a renewed focus on every aspect of design, R&D and manufacturing of the Hatteras yacht line.


Itama Lands in the US for Very 1st Time

Itama, the brand that has written the story of Italian open yachting, together with Allied Marine, its exclusive distributor for the United States, will be taking part in this important event for the very first time and celebrating its official launch on the American market. This momentous move demonstrates the widely acclaimed popularity of the Italian shipyard that since September 2008 has established its headquarters at the impressive Torre Annunziata Yacht Centre, a modern production area that covers an area of over 125,000m. The Miami Boat Show offers Itama an ideal opportunity for emphasizing the brand’s increasing internationalization and further highlighting the distinctive “Made in Italy” character of its boats. The agreement signed with Allied Marine also reinforces Itama’s penetration of the America market, thanks to the dealer’s wide-reaching distribution network and its numerous service points in Florida. Itama has therefore become a major ambassador of “Italian style” overseas, and has succeeded in placing at the forefront of this prestigious, international exhibition, one of the market’s most exciting innovations and the pride of its fleet, the new Itama SeventyFive. Distinctive contemporary style, traditional Italian craftsmanship, versatility, power, performance and design innovation all combine to make the Itama SeventyFive a real yachting gem. A spectacular achievement that has been made possible thanks to the company’s insistence on the most up-to-date technology and constant research into the latest style trends. Having enjoyed huge success and acclaim in Europe, the Itama SeventyFive is now poised to make its grand entry onto the American market, confident of its ability to win over a public that is particularly attentive to technological innovation, functionality, and space design focused on direct sea contact. On January 30, to underline the importance of its launch on the American market, the Itama flagship will also be the star of a prestigious event where guests can relive the story of the Itama brand in a highly elegant setting. Featuring a series of prestigious sponsors, including One Sotheby’s, Moleca providing premium carpirinha cocktails and catered by Maison D’ Azur, the event will take place at Capri South Beach, a boutique luxury condo property in Miami Beach. The focus of the event will be the unveiling and presentation of the Itama SeventyFive for Miami’s elite.


Jeanneau Wins Croatia Boat of the Year

Each year, the Croatian marine magazine, Naucat, organizes a competition for the title of "Croatian Boat of the Year". For the 7th year, a jury composed of marine professionals awarded the title once more to two new model, selected from among 62 models in competition! The Jeanneau 50 Prestige, a new model for 2009, was awarded the title, "Croatian Boat of the Year 2009," in Category 1: motor yachts of over 49 feet in length.


Maritimo Muster Invitation

Expressions of interest are invited from Maritimo owners to join the Great Southern Muster this April. In the past, we have Musters north to the beautiful waters of the Whitsundays. This time, we are running south on another adventure of a lifetime. The idea is to get boats from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide (Queensland owners can join in Sydney) and run the Muster to Launceston, Tasmania. The Muster will be led by experienced skippers Greg Alward and Bass Strait expert Geoff “Hendo” Henderson who has some 40 years experience in the Southern waters. All boats will meet at Refuge Cove on Wilson’s Promontory and then travel on to Beauty Point at the mouth of the Tamar River in Northern Tasmania. We will overnight at Beauty Point and dine at the new yacht club beside the river before travelling the 40 kilometres up the Tamar to Launceston. After our stay at Launceston we will head back down the Tamar to again overnight at Beauty Point then head back out into Bass Strait and our next overnight stop at Flinders Island. Following our stay at Flinders, the Adelaide contingent will depart west and the Melbourne and Sydney boats will continue on toward Refuge Cove with (hopefully) a stopover at Deal Island, the largest island in the Kent Group. After our stopover at Deal we will head back to Refuge Cove and then on back to Sydney and Melbourne. The Melbourne boats can refuel at Port Welshpool if necessary and Sydney Boats will again head to Eden for refuel. The Great Southern Muster will certainly be an adventure and a great chance to test your boat, your seamanship and your navigation skills in some of the most spectacular and remote areas of Australia.


Marquis Yachts designed by Valentina Zannier

Marquis Yachts, builders of premium quality yachts 42' - 72' in length, will be showcasing a new 720 Motor Yacht designed by Nuvolari-Lenard's Valentina Zannier at the 2009 Miami International Boat Show. Valentina Zannier is a partner and lead designer with Nuvolari-Lenard Naval Architects of Venice, Italy. She developed her visionary design skills as a student of Italy's Artistic Liceum and as a graduate of the famous Architecture University of Venice. Ms. Zannier has directed the interior layout, design, and fine detailing of several recently built mega yachts developed by the Nuvolari-Lenard firm. Her yacht design expertise is evident throughout this new Marquis. The Marquis 720 Motor Yacht is fascinating and reflects Ms. Zannier's contemporary European design influence. Step into the yacht's spacious salon where open grained, select oak hardwood is used to create bulkheads and cabinets. This is a Marquis - so the attention to detail and craftsmanship is outstanding. The salon sole is Brazilian cherry and serves as a beautiful backdrop for the handmade Italian leather furnishings from Calia Italia. Illumination throughout the yacht is provided by a combination of fixtures designed and made by Cantalupi of Viareggio, Italy. Oak cabinetry is carried forward throughout the yacht's spacious galley which is richly surrounded by intricately flecked and veined granite flooring and countertops. A dining table for six is situated adjacent to the galley and features an inlaid icon of the Nuvolari-Lenard marquee, a prestigious symbol recognized by experienced yachtsmen throughout the world. Below decks the opulence of the Zannier design continues throughout the yacht's four private staterooms. The Master Stateroom is the owner's private domain. Oak cabinets, drawers and hanging lockers are not only expertly crafted and beautifully finished but also designed to be highly functional for live aboard convenience. Rubelli fabrics were imported from Venice to create the luxurious bed covers and pillows in all staterooms. Deep pile Ralph Lauren carpet is used throughout the lower deck. The Master Bath with marble floor and counter tops is a showcase for yacht finish quality. The spacious stall shower is surrounded by an artistic pattern of ceramic and dark Emperador marble tiles from Spain. Additional details include hand sewn leather appointments on the king sized bed pedestal and stainless steel inserts on the cabinet surrounds.

Mochi takes European Powerboat of the Year and Motor Boat of the Year

2009 once again proves to be a year of top-level awards and accolades for Mochi Craft, which triumphed in Düsseldorf at the European Powerboat of the Year. This prestigious event held by the Delius Klasing Verlag publishing group during BOOT Düsseldorf saw the Dolphin 54' Fly crowned winner in category of "Best yacht over 50 feet". This new accolade comes after recognition at London's prestigious "Motor Boat of the Year Awards 2009" in early January for the sun top version of the same model in the "Traditional and Retro" category, reflecting the excellent reception it has enjoyed in the British market.

Outer Reef Expand into Europe

Outer Reef Yachts, part of the American Global Yacht Group are pleased to announce their expansion into the European Yacht market. After a successful Dusseldorf show, where their class leading range of long distance semi displacement trawlers met with great approval and enthusiasm from not only experienced yachtsmen but press and trade alike, Outer Reef Yachts have appointed Mr Trevor White to head up the new Outer Reef Europe operations. Trevor White is also the Chairman of Ocean Nautic Limited, the well respected solus UK and Ireland distributors for Absolute Yachts, who coupled with their strong knowledge base of the Mediterranean and north European markets is a perfect match for Outer Reef who pride themselves on their exceptional customer service. Outer Reef Yacht builds premium quality semi displacement, semi custom built Raised Pilot House trawler style yachts from 58 through to 115 feet. Outer Reef Yachts clients cruise the world’s favoured oceans and waterways in absolute comfort and luxury. All vessels in the Outer Reef range are built under strict ISO 9001, CE and ABS rules obtaining CE open ocean category ‘A’.

Pershing New CEO

Paolo Favilla is the new CEO of Pershing SpA. Favilla replaces Fabio Fraternale, CEO of Itama SpA, who was named CEO of Apreamare SpA in November 2008. According to a company statement, the two appointments are part of the group's strategic growth plan for Apreamare and Itama, two of Ferretti's nine motoryacht brands. Favilla will work alongside Pershing founder and Chairman Tilli Antonelli, who will continue to deal directly with Pershing and Itama-branded products. Prior to joining Ferretti, Favilla was general manager of Grandi Navi Veloci and a board member of Grimaldi Holding SpA, favoring the entry of private equity funds into the group's capital. From 1999-2004 he held the role of CEO at private investment bank Banknord SpA, where he also served as partner.


Riviera Scoops Pool Tournament

Riviera boats swept all before them in a tightly contested Riviera Gold Coast Light Tackle Masters game fish tournament over the weekend, taking first and second places overall as well as the Champion Female Angler title. The tournament, held from the Marina Quays International at Hope Harbour on Queensland’s Gold Coast, ended on Sunday afternoon with three of the results relying on countback. Riviera 51 Enclosed Flybridge The Phantom was overall winner, beating Riviera’s own corporate boat, the 48 Offshore Express Fascination IV on a countback, tagging its marlin earlier. The Phantom, with her new owner Ian Walker, was Riviera’s previous corporate boat, Fascination II. Riviera awarded a special trophy to the Riviera team who scored the most tag-and-release points throughout the tournament. The trophy was won by the team on board The Phantom. Champion Male Angler went to Dane Rusmussen on board Legacy Gulfstream while Champion Female was won by Lorraine Golightly on board Fascination IV. According to Gold Coast Game Fish Club President Darren Malaquin, the number of juniors competing was particularly exciting for tournament organisers. More than 150 anglers aboard 38 boats ranging from six metres to 19 metres in length competed over the weekend for prizes valued at a total of $65,000. Boats come mainly from the Gold Coast but some anglers came from as far away as Melbourne and Townsville and New Zealand. The tournament was scheduled to run over three days - Friday, Saturday and Sunday - but Saturday was called off after the Bureau of Meteorology issued a Strong Wind Warning for the area. However, action on Friday and Sunday ensured a close finish across all categories of competition.


Sunseeker Moves into Aluminum Construction

In its on-going development program, Sunseeker International has officially announced the launch of its latest project. Codenamed "Zeus", the project is the company's proposed move into aluminium construction - a development that will allow them to build vessels in excess of 170 feet (52m). Following a number of requests from interested clients, a series of outline designs have been produced. The demand for larger, more individual designs combined with Sunseeker's unrivalled reputation for cutting-edge styling and higher levels of performance is a natural step for the company. This new development will mean changes to the construction processes currently employed in their very successful range of craft. New facilities are being planned to accommodate the one-off building processes required for such large vessels. The company is very well equipped to cater for the fit-out and finishing of these new superyachts having already gained worldwide acclaim for their Yacht range, which consists of luxury craft up to 150 feet (46m) with styling and interiors comparable to much larger vessels. The new Shipbuilding Division at Sunseeker will provide a fully integrated service of design, construction and project management. Each model will be totally unique, customised to the clients' individual requirements and built to appropriate classification depending on type and area of use.