July 31, 2010

Monthly News - July 2010

-pic of the month- Sea Ray AquaPalozza 2010

Azimut Reveals Brazilian Plans

Italy's Azimut-Benetti Group has confirmed that it will begin building boats in Santa Catarina, Brazil as of next month. The announcement was made at an Azimut news conference in São Paulo last week. Azimut-Benetti, builder of Atlantis, Azimut and Benetti yachts from 9m-70m (30ft-230ft), recently founded Azimut do Brasil Yachts LTDA, the company that will manage production of Azimut-branded yachts at a 20,000sq m site in Itajaí, Santa Catarina. The first yachts to be built inside the 10,000sq m facility will be flybridge versions of the Azimut 43 and Azimut 58. Both will be ready for the summer of 2011. Azimut-Benetti is well known on the Brazilian market, thanks to a previous partnership with Brazilian boatbuilder Intermarine. As of April last year, Azimut yachts have been imported into the country by Yacht Brasil, a dealer with 18 sales outlets and eight dedicated service points throughout the country. Azimut-Benetti says that its goal for this year is to produce 100 boats from 12m-30m (40ft-100ft) in six different models. Led by chairman Paolo Vitelli, the company will invest some €80m over five years. In 2009, Azimut-Benetti generated sales of around €650m and is now present in 67 countries. In its first year of operation, the boatbuilder will focus on the manufacture of six units. Only the hulls of these first boats will be produced in Brazil; the remaining parts will be imported from Italy. The factory will begin operations with 50 staff members, although the number is expected to eventually rise to 1,000 due to strong demand on both the domestic and export markets.


Bayliner Garmin Team Up

Bayliner Boats and Garmin International are pleased to announce that, beginning with the upcoming 2011 model year, all Bayliner navigation packages will feature intuitive, state-of-the-art electronics exclusively from Garmin International. Bayliner, a world leader in affordably-priced runabouts and cruisers, formed this agreement with Garmin, a global leader in marine-friendly satellite navigation and communication, to continue its enhancements in the ease and usability of its boats. Bayliner manufactures runabout and cruiser models ranging from 16 to 33 feet. The optional navigation packages vary by model based on boat size and specific use. Bayliner already is installing Garmin electronics on its cruiser models with complete integration throughout the product offering by September when the 2011 model year begins.


Beneteau Groupe Nine Month Sales Up

Boat business sales totaled €407 million for the first nine months, up 9.5%. In the third quarter alone, this increase came out at 16.7%. In a stable market, this good performance reflects more specifically the success achieved by the new models offered by the Group during the autumn and winter shows. However, this improvement has been penalized by the sourcing difficulties encountered with certain suppliers, delaying and compromising some deliveries for the end of the season. The housing business generated €162.5 million in sales over the period, an increase of 17%, supported by the good trend seen for leisure homes. This growth factors in sales from the first wooden-frame houses delivered. Over the full year, the Group is expected to achieve sales growth of more than 15%. In this context, the Group is able to confirm its forecast for €37.5 million in income from ordinary operations.


Broom New Owners

The UK's Broom Boats has been acquired by Mark Garner and Akis Chrisovelides, whose roles at the company are chairman and managing director respectively. No details are currently available on the nature of the deal or the amounts involved, with both men simply described as highly successful businessmen from the Norfolk area. Broom Boats, which is entering its 112th year, has historically been a family-run business. Until this announcement, the company was run by Martin and Jennifer Broom, the third generation of Brooms to head up the operation. Martin Broom, who has worked for the company since the 1960s, will stay on in a presidential capacity. The move has been seen as a positive one inside the yard, with hopes for future consolidation and model development


Cabo Yachts Moves to North Carolina

Hatteras Yachts, a unit of Brunswick Corporation, today announced that it will consolidate production of both its Hatteras Yacht and CABO Yacht brands at its facility in New Bern, N.C. CABO Yachts are currently made in a plant in Adelanto, Calif., which will be closed by the end of the year as that production is phased down and migrated to the New Bern facility. CABO and Hatteras already share services in New Bern for product design, engineering, marketing, and sales. To help prepare the New Bern facility and workforce to integrate CABO Yachts into production there, the State of North Carolina, along with various Craven County and New Bern governmental entities, will provide economic assistance tied to Hatteras and CABO meeting certain performance measures over the next several years. CABO employees were informed this morning of the decision to consolidate production. Meyer reported that many members of the CABO manufacturing team and certain managers will be offered jobs and relocation assistance to move to New Bern.


Cigarette Welcomes Vic Spellberg

It seemed a natural fit for Vic Spellberg -- a former racer, turned marketer for powerboats and sport yachts, to find his calling at Cigarette Racing Team, home to both performance and luxury. As Director of Sales and Promotion, Spellberg will work with both retail customers and dealers while promoting brand awareness through Cigarette's corporate marketing activities. Spellberg raced "Secret Formula" a 302 with Scott Porter, Formula's president in the late 70's and over his 12 year racing career, earned a number of titles including back-to-back Southeast Divisional Championships in 1985-86. A member of the American Powerboat Association, Spellberg served as President of the Offshore Powerboat Racing Association for 5 years during the 80's, while owning a Miami-based office products and furniture company; then through his relationship with Formula, he changed careers and got back into boating, as Director of Sponsor Promotions. Like Skip Braver, Cigarette's President and CEO, Spellberg hailed from Chicago, boating on the Great Lakes, but for the past 35 years, he has been in South Florida enjoying year-around boating. The Ft. Lauderdale, Florida resident now looks forward to a new boating lifestyle.

Cigarette Wins Reader’s Choice Awards

The readers of Powerboat Magazine, those who truly know and love performance boats, named Cigarette Racing Team the "Favorite V-Bottom Manufacturer." Powerboat conducted its first annual online survey, setting up a competition for 60 different categories and just published the results in the September 2010 issue. The responses came from across North America, Europe and Scandinavia and according to Powerboat editors, in the world of go-fast powerboats, there is one brand that stands above the rest Cigarette Racing. For 40-plus years, the Opa-locka, Fla., company has symbolized the performance lifestyle through captivating marketing, unforgettable V-bottoms and a strong heritage in offshore racing. Cigarette's line has diversified over the years to include not only a range of deep V-bottoms from the 38' Top Gun to the 50' Marauder, but also under Braver's ownership, added a 39' Top Fish center console and a 49' diesel-powered luxury cruiser, the Grand Sport II. At the Miami International Boat Show, the AMG-Inspired Cigarette stole the show as the new model 46', powered by Mercury Racing's newest 1350 HP engines, made its debut along with the Mercedes AMG SLS.

Cigarette Says Lets Go Fishing

Though the Top Gun is still Cigarette Racing Team's best selling boat, the legendary manufacturer of performance boats has seen a rapid rise in the popularity of its center console, the Top Fish. Introduced in 2006, the Top Fish with a cuddy cabin was followed at the most recent Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show with a Top Fish Open which provides more bow space for seating, sunning and yes, fishing! The Top Fish Open has made its way to ports as far away as the Middle East to as near as Charleston, South Carolina. New Cigarette owner from Charleston, Rick Link, has had several other center consoles in the past but selected the Cigarette for its performance, reputation and customization options. He liked the Platinum Blue paint on his Lexus so much that he had the Top Fish painted to match, giving the boat a shimmering silvery image on the water-like a bonefish in the Florida Keys. Link, in fact, took the boat on its maiden voyage on a Florida Powerboat Club Poker Run to Key Largo, his first Poker Run and first trip to The Keys. Link and his friends joined other Top Fish on the run, and then took the boat north for a summer of fun. Though fishing is a hobby but not on Link's top priority list, other Cigarette owners are emphatic about the boat's "fishability." Pier 57 dealer David Woods regularly uses his Top Fish for aggressive days of fishing in the Florida Keys, Bahamas or even in his home waters on Lake Pickwick. Braver concurs that it took a great deal of time, effort and resources to create the right boat, but the investment paid off. There many options for power, paint and added features like the electric table in the Top Fish Open that can extend from the floor, to a sunpad to a table. As with all Cigarettes, each boat is built to order.


Couach New President

French superyacht builder Chantier Naval Couach — CNC has named Eric Robert-Peillard as the company's new president. Robert-Peillard is the former director of IMS, Couach's service subsidiary based in Saint-Mandrier in the south of France. The new president replaces Jean-François Buigues. Buigues held the position of president at CNC for a year and is also financial director of the industrial group led by CNC's owner Fabrice Vial. Couach was acquired by Vial in June 2009 since the superyacht yard had become unable to pay its creditors in March the same year.


Ferretti Group Presents Centro Stile

Continuous innovation and a constant commitment to ensuring the very best quality in its yachts have always been part of the DNA of the Ferretti Group, one of the world leaders in the design, construction and sale of luxury motoryachts, with a unique portfolio of some of the most prestigious, exclusive brands in the nautical world. This strategic aim has led to establishment of the Centro Stile Ferrettigroup, conceived and strongly wished for by Chairman Norberto Ferretti, which aims to become one of the most advanced naval design and décor centres in the world. The new Ferrettigroup Centro Stile, to be managed firsthand by Gilberto Grassi, will be formed of a team of around 30, comprising architects and designers. It will liaise with the best-known naval architects and design studios in the world, in the wake of Ferretti Group tradition, on a continuous quest for aesthetic and design solutions for products, aiming to achieve top quality. Centro Stile Ferrettigroup, part of the Group’s Industrial Direction along with the AYT – Advanced Yacht Technology - will be split between several Group’s production facilities. In this way, the direct contact between the team of professionals and the various production phases of a yacht shall be constantly coordinated in such a way as to determine her aesthetic features from the very first stages of design and construction. Achieving harmony between shape and function whilst respecting the design and production standards of nautical engineering will, therefore, be achieved by studying a layout which can satisfy the market, defining the furnishings and décor, carrying out lighting studies to assess the various environments and selecting top quality materials with the aim of making make Centro Stile Ferrettigroup a leading figure in the creation of new models. Centro Stile Ferrettigroup will also support the Group’s Sales Direction, both when setting down a client’s requirements for a yacht and during the stage in which the personalised features of the yacht are developed. Continuous market research of suppliers and artisans and a sophisticated computer network able to facilitate the exchange and sharing of data guarantee that the many different requests put forward by Owners are fully-satisfied. Hence, Centro Stile will develop a network of highly specialised skills with the task of supporting, consolidating and developing the style research which characterises all Ferretti Group brands. Working in close collaboration with external naval architecture studios and the AYT – Advanced Yacht Technology, the Ferretti Group’s naval research and design centre, Centro Stile Ferrettigroup will single out increasingly more innovative, personalised, exclusive solutions which will unmistakeably characterise Ferretti Group yachts. Hence, Centro Stile Ferrettigroup will also be supervisor of all technical alterations which have an aesthetic impact on the yacht: yet another element of the Ferretti Group’s excellence.

Ferretti Group Easea Tour Sets Sail

The Ferretti Group, one of the world leaders in the design, construction and sale of motoryachts with a unique portfolio of some of the most exclusive, prestigious brands in the nautical world, is ready to set sail for the first edition of the Easea>Tour, an emotional itinerant journey with the objective of involving its own Clients, Prospects and Dealers directly. This event, starting on 22nd July from Marina of Cattolica and finishing on 28th August at Costa Azzurra (French Riviera), will take place on board the three most representative jewels of the Group’s fleet: the Pershing 64’, the Itama FiftyFive and the Riva Rivale. After the first stops in Croatia and Montenegro, in the marvellous yacht marinas of Hvar and Budva, the tour will reach Costa Azzurra (French Riviera), at Antibes/Saint Tropez, after having visited other places of rare beauty such as Taormina, Panarea, Capri, Porto Cervo and Porto Vecchio. The name of this initiative indicates the great proximity and the openness towards Clients who have always been the basis of the Ferretti Group philosophy: during the Easea>Tour, the Ship owners will have the opportunity to experience the great comfort of the yachts in a relaxed and festive atmosphere and to visit some of the most exclusive areas of the Mediterranean. All the stopping places of Easea>Tour will include sea trials, activities, games and entertainment with the objective of creating a festive atmosphere throughout the journey. The underlying idea is that of providing our Clients and enthusiasts, the opportunity to experience the boat in all its comfort in an unusual environment which will bring the clients and the company closer in the midst of the summer season. The stopping places of the Easea>Tour will be daily followed by a digital magazine published on a dedicated website, as an authentic travel reportage. In addition, all updates, images and videos of the event will be hosted on the main social networks. Easea>Tour was planned with the objective of involving the Dealers, the Clients and the Prospects in an event which, in all its phases, will focus on service accessibility and the consolidation of relations with the Ship Owners through emotional experiences such as that of living on board one of the most marvellous motor yachts of the Ferretti Group

Ferretti Group Easea Tour Web 2.0

A new digital magazine will daily tell about the salient moments of the emotional journey on board the three jewels of the Ferretti Group fleet, through videos, images and news. The Ferretti Group, one of the world leaders in the design, construction and sale of motoryachts with a unique portfolio of some of the most exclusive, prestigious brands in the nautical world, presents Easea>Tour 2.0, a new digital magazine which, through videos, images and news, will daily tell about the salient moments of the emotional itinerant journey, dedicated to the Clients, Prospects and Dealers of the Group, and which will be launched tomorrow, Thursday 22nd July from Cattolica and will finish at the end of August at Saint Tropez, after having touched the most beautiful seaside resorts of the Mediterranean, and will have three of the main models of the Ferretti Group as its unquestionable protagonists: Pershing 64', Itama FiftyFive and Rivale. Available online as an authentic journey report, both on the web as well as on the smartphone, the magazine – developed in collaboration with Now Available, partner for the digital communication of this project – will be connected to all the main social networks of the Web, offering in so doing the possibility to experience the journey of the Ferretti Group “in real time” for all the nautical scene lovers. Therefore, an opportunity to make the exclusive world of the Ferretti known through an original way and a manner that is ever so close to the trends of the moment: in fact, the new magazine will be present on all the four main social networks, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube and two guests, who will experience the emotions of the tour on board, will tell about every stopping place both in Italian and in English.

Ferretti New Advertising Campaign

Ferretti Yachts, the Ferretti Groups historical brand, produces flybridge motoryachts measuring 14 to 27 metres, and will launch its new advertising campaign based on the emotion and values of the brands DNA. The creative project has been developed by agency, Lorenzo Marini e Associati. The black and white images produced by famous photographer Christian Coigny, depict intimate, family moments on board Ferretti Yachts, and enhance the class and elegance which have always distinguished brand communications. The heading "The future has its traditions", too determines the attention paid to representing an intimate situation, in which being counts more than having: the world of family affections, in which the sea is a passion to be shared, and a Ferretti Yachts yacht a tradition to hand down from generation to generation. The new Ferretti Yachts advertising campaign, to be released in top national and international nautical magazines, further reinforces the positioning and system of values of the brand, in which the yacht becomes a tangible carrier of the brand values, whilst at the same time witness to and active leading figure for the moment when those values are shared. All this, without leaving out the benchmarks of the Ferretti Yachts world: technological innovation combined with design excellence and the choices of the materials. A perfect balance between the tradition and innovation, with which Ferretti Yachts has been looking to the future since 1968 in a long history of passion for the sea.


Four Winns New Vice President

Jeff Brunson has been named vice president, North American sales and marketing, for Four Winns Boats. The company announced the appointment today. Brunson, most recently vice president of sales and marketing for Cruisers Yachts, spent 15 years at BRP. A statement said Brunson was instrumental in the rebirth of Evinrude after Bombardier acquired the engine brand after the OMC bankruptcy in 2000. Brunson replaces long-time Four Winns executive Rick Fulmer who left the company two weeks ago.


Jarrett Bay Announce Contract Pricing

Jarrett Bay Boatworks not only offers the opportunity to build a truly custom interpretation of the perfect boat, it can now be built at a contracted price. Unlike most custom sportfish competitors, Jarrett Bay is willing and able to build at a contracted price thanks to more than 20 years of detailed time and materials records for over 50 custom hulls, ranging in size from 20 to 70 feet. The Jarrett Bay full-service boat yard and refit center's records of thousands of broad scope service jobs and estimates also allows Jarrett Bay to confidently provide this aggressive pricing program. Only Jarrett Bay can provide custom-crafted cold-molded construction with the complete package of peace of mind pricing, exceptional ride, economical performance, solid resale value and trademark Carolina Flare.

Jarrett Bay Wins MegaDock Tournament

Jarrett Bay hull 55, Bench Mark, captained by Bobby Garmany, won the HMY-Viking MegaDock Billfish Tournament this past weekend with 1 blue marlin & 5 sailfish released in two days. Bench Mark is the "youngest" in the Jarrett Bay fleet, a beautiful 64 footer finished and splashed in December of last year. This marks the second consecutive year a Jarrett Bay won the MegaDock - in 2009, the 55' Micabe took home top honors and also won the SC Governor's Cup Series. Also finishing on the leaderboard on Saturday was the 58' Jarrett Bay, Jabez (t-3rd).


Linssen Opens New UK Facility

Linssen Yachts, a Dutch producer of steel motoryachts, has opened a new UK facility in London. Based at Thames Ditton in Surrey, Linssen Yachts UK Ltd will be managed by Geoffrey Cook and James Troup, both of whom have many years' experience in the boating sector. The new sales and service centre will handle all enquiries and sales on behalf of Linssen and provide existing and new clients with full aftersales support.


Marquis Makes Key Promotion

Marquis Yachts has promoted Erik Nelson to VP of sales and marketing with immediate effect. Nelson, director of sales and service at Marquis since 2008, will be responsible for developing strategy and overseeing the implementation of tactics related to the marketing and sale of the company's two brands, Marquis Yachts and Carver Yachts. Prior to joining the company in 2006, he held senior level management, sales management and account management positions within the home construction and home furnishing industry.


Marlow Yachts Boss Interviewed by Yachts International Editor

David Marlow was interviewed by the knowledgeable Cecile Gauert, Editor in Chief of the prestigious yachting journal Yachts International, about the changes in boat building technology and the innovations involved in building a Marlow Yacht. The interview explores in depth on what Mr. Marlow finds most important about the build process and what some common misconceptions are about boat building, engineering and design.


Nordhavn First Mad Fish Hunt

After months of casting lines, tossing bait and practically bribing the fish to bite, one angler bested the rest and earned top honors at the First Annual Nordhavn Mad Fish Hunt. It was a nearly impossible chore sifting through the field of impressive entries that came in from all over the world, but young Aleksander Nowaczek was deemed the clear favorite by our esteemed panel of judges for landing a 41-inch, 57-pound Halibut off Alaska. What swayed the judges in Aleksander’s favor was that the fish was both larger and heavier than its captor. No other entrant could make that claim. Plus, Alek submitted the most entries and thus earned bonus points for enthusiasm. For his win, Aleksander receives a highly coveted Mad Fish Hunt t-shirt and the Mad Fish Hunt Trophy Fish trophy. The engraved award is sure to sit upon the book shelf of his parents’ Nordhavn 75 Yachtfisher in all its shiny glass glory, drawing impressed glances from those who come on board. We’d be remiss without pointing out a couple other stand-outs, whose spirit – if not their catches – captured the essence of the contest. An honorable mention goes to Heather Halsey of N55 Echo for having the best captions and going to great lengths to poke fun at the contest. We like a gal who helps us put the “mad” in Mad Fish Hunt. Additionally, we’d like to give a hearty pat on the back to Nathan Allen for capturing a sting ray, which in itself must be quite a feat. And so the 2010 Mad Fish Hunt draw to a close. Next year’s Fish Hunt will start in May and run through the summer. We’ll catch you next spring with more details. Thanks to all who participated. You did yourselves – and us - proud!


Otam Chooses Garmin

Garmin Italy has been made an official supplier of electronic navigation systems to Italian boat producer Otam. Under the terms of the agreement, Garmin will provide the yard with all electronic instruments for navigation, including the latest touchscreen chartplotter and high-definition digital radar. Founded in 1954, Otam builds high-performance motorboats from around 15m-26m (49ft-85ft). The company is headquartered in Genoa, with a refitting department in Santa Margherita Ligure.


Princess Expands Across the Atlantic

Since 1995, when an exclusive relationship was formed between Princess Yachts International and Viking Sport Cruisers of New Jersey in the US, the two companies have successfully created a new class of luxury performance motor yacht for the American market. Designed and crafted in the UK by Princess and marketed under the Viking brand in the States, these powerful cruising yachts have remained at the very forefront of the market, leading the way in quality of build, seakeeping and, through the solid foundations of Viking Sport Cruisers, class leading customer service. A philosophy of continued investment in product and infrastructure has helped Princess Yachts International build a solid, worldwide reputation, firmly founded on combining the artistry of traditional craftsmanship with market leading technological advancement. This, together with a new ownership which moved the brand into the exclusive LVMH (Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton) family, places the Princess name at the very forefront of the global luxury yacht market. In recognition of the inherent strength in building a singular global brand and, to benefit from a unified global marketing effort, Princess and Viking are delighted to announce that from 2011 model year all new craft for the market will carry the Princess brand. Viking Sport Cruisers will offer the full line of Princess models, including V Class yachts from 42 to 85 feet, Flybridge yachts from 42 to 95 feet, and the 32M and 40M M Class yachts, through its network of established dealers across North America, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. In addition to strong dealer service support, Viking offers dedicated Viking owned and operated service centers located in New Gretna, New Jersey and Riviera Beach, Florida. The Princess brand will be shown by Viking for the first time in the Autumn and at both the 2010 Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show and the 2011 Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show with premieres of six new models for the United States. New model debuts for Ft. Lauderdale include the Princess 42, V52, V62, and 85 Motor Yacht. Miami will see the US unveiling of the stunning 72 Motor Yacht together with a new model yet to be announced.

Princess Triumph at South West Skills Awards

Princess Yachts International was announced as winners of the ‘Apprentice Employer of the Year’ for 2010 in the Large Employer category for the second consecutive year at the South West Skills Awards. Princess was presented with the award by BBC TV and Radio Correspondent Kate Adie at an Award Ceremony held at Sandy Park, Exeter on the 2nd June 2010. The Apprenticeship Employer of the Year Award acknowledges and celebrates employers’ commitment to developing their workforce through Apprenticeships and is judged across numerous areas including commitment to training the workforce through apprenticeships, how training has been utilised to benefit the business and the business potential to act as a role model to other employers. This award automatically qualifies Princess for the National Apprenticeship Awards which will take place at Westminster Plaza in Central London on 15 July 2010 and where the company received a ‘Highly Commended’ accolade last year.


Riviera Apprentice Graduate

It was a proud moment for Riviera’s newest recruits who graduated from their four year apprenticeship program with the company this month. Lachlan Dumesny, Boyd Ellis, Hollan Camery and Alex Warsing began their careers in the marine industry as school based apprentices in 2005 and through hard-work and dedication they have now gained nationally recognised qualifications as skilled tradesmen. HR Manager Deanne Lugton said it was a huge achievement and commended their commitment and work ethic. Riviera’s multi award-winning training program is a huge investment, which has produced hundreds of highly skilled tradesmen with nationally recognised qualifications since the program's inception in 1997. The school based apprentice program started in 1997 but Riviera took on its first apprentice in 1988. Lachlan Dumesny who works in Fit Out One said a highlight of his apprenticeship was in 2006 when he was nominated for Riviera's Star Performer award and received the school-based Vocation Education award and also the national Vocation Education award. Boyd Ellis said in Fit Out Two he worked on the final stages of the production process and it was a great feeling to see a finished boat come together. Hollan Camery enjoys his role in lamination because of the diverse range of work. Alex Warsing graduated as a qualified electrician. Mrs Lugton said it was pleasing to see enthusiastic, young people keen to work in the marine industry and Riviera would continue to grow its apprentice program. To this end the company will be recruiting new school based apprentices later this year.

Riviera New Dealer in Turkey

Riviera, Australia’s most awarded pleasure boat builder continues to expand its dealer network with the appointment of IVI Yacht in Istanbul, Turkey. IVI Yacht is operated and managed by a team of professionals whose expertise in the yachting industry is second to none. Managing Directors Ozlem Ozcan and Atilla Ardagil have 30 years combined marine experience and bring a wealth of knowledge from their diverse backgrounds. Ozlem has worked in the marine sector as a reputable senior yacht broker since 2003, while Atilla graduated from the Turkish Naval Academy in 1987 and has worked on numerous projects within the marine industry. Riviera CEO John Anderson welcomed the appointment of IVI Yacht as Riviera’s new, exclusive dealer in Turkey.


Sea Ray Aquapalozza Bigger in Texas

Sea Ray Boats and its dealer Sail & Ski Center announced today that an estimated 7,000 boats and 65,000 to 70,000 people attended Brad Paisley’s concert on Saturday, July 10, at the AquaPalooza 2010 Signature Event on Lake Travis near Austin, Texas. The event, held at The Reserve on Lake Travis, broke all previous Signature Event attendance records. This year’s Signature Event attendance numbers are a compilation of on-site estimates by state and local officials, online registrations, and aerial comparisons and calculations. This year’s results are nearly double last year’s record-setting event. Sea Ray was extremely complimentary of the event organizers. This year’s event was larger and more complex in every facet. It included multi-day activities around Lake Travis and in the Austin area. The week of AquaPalooza-related festivities featured the Signature Event on Saturday, which was headlined by Paisley, in conjunction with his current H2O World Tour. The week also included a Battle of the Bands on Friday, July 9, plus an all-day music bill preceding Paisley. The large crowd was entertained by Matt Stillwell, Joanna Smith, Lee Brice and Jerrod Niemann, who not only warmed things up in preparation for Paisley, but also got the chance to perform original music in front an extremely enthusiastic audience. As with last year’s AquaPalooza, the viral buzz surrounding the event was evident in the thousands of new Facebook fans who posted photos and made comments, such as Sheri Noah, who wrote, It was awesome! Awesome! Awesome! Brad puts on an amazing show! The event was a success, very cool and so fun! In addition to the Signature Event on Lake Travis, this year’s AquaPalooza will consist of more than 100 events held around the world during the remaining weekends of July. Sponsors like Mercury MerCruiser, Cummins MerCruiser Diesel, GMC, Sony, National Boat Owners Association, Raymarine, and Sebago generously supported the activities.

Project: CNM 100 Continental Super Maxi Tender

Another innovative project from CNM i.e Cantieri Navali dell Mediterraneo in Rome with the 100 Continental Super Maxi Tender. This new project follows similar classic lines as seen on the 50 presented in 2008, with its innovations as opening sides which translates to a total of three bathing platforms. Surely a unique area not found in any yacht of this size is the fully entertainment dedicated main deck with numerous seating areas totaling six dinettes, and two sun loungers aft. The interior of hull one which should be launched this year will have a three cabin layout. The owners cabin is to fore with a unique details as the fully opening large side windows, or the forward jacuzzi bath which opens up to the fore peak of the main deck. Two further twin cabins both with en suite head, a VIP to starboard, and double to port completes the guest accommodation. Below is also space for a galley and a day head. Crew quarters located to midship aft offer four berths in one area with two heads. Power for the 100 Continental Super Maxi Tender will be from twin 2450hp MTU with surface drives which should give a 45 knots top speed. The model will also be available with jet propulsion. This is a very unique project and is also a big challenge to the other pure large opens, although Mediterraneo should remove the Tender from the model designation name, as I am sure that at one hundred feet this cannot be considered an utility boat to anything.
www.cnmspa.com

July 30, 2010

Web: Zenit Yachts New Web Site

Zenit Yachts a small but very quality orientated Italian builder, updates its website to a new showroom. Located in the North Italy on the Adriatic coast of Venice, Zenit was founded in 2003 and started its story with a shaft powered 44 Open Sport Cruiser model. A year later in 2005 the first model was followed with the 45 Hard Top which is based on the same line of the 44 Open, but including the much desired accessory. After starting their life as shaft propulsion models, both Zenit's where updated in 2007 to include Volvo IPS pod propulsion. The Zenit story has been of a good success for a small production builder thanks to a modern original design by Delta Lab Italia which emphasizes latest trend solutions such as full beam owners cabin, spacious saloon, and among the largest tender garage of the size. Semi customization of the interior has also been another of the reason of Zenit success, with unique chromatic and stylistic elements being the other. The new Zenit website is only available in Italian and is a photo experience shows both the Zenit models. Navigation is with three buttons: Home, Contacts, and Reaching Us. www.zenityachts.com

New Model: Maritimo 470 Offshore Convertible

Maritimo presents the new 470 Offshore Convertible enclosed flybridge model what is a three cabin, two bathroom luxury cruiser sport fisher which joins the 500 and 550 models of this range. Sitting at the limit of a Sportfish Cruiser with an overall length of over 54 feet, the 470 Offshore Convertible Cruiser keeps Maritimo usual characteristics of a comfortable interior associated with good performance, and a better range thanks to the addition of larger to normal fuel capacity of 3000 litres. This is what you find on boats to a minimum three metres larger, and having close to double the horse power! Other details of the 470 Offshore Convertible are the internal staircase to the enclosed bridge, aft helm position and a fishing friendly cockpit. The cockpit includes an optional live bait well in the transom and bait prep station over a cool box forward as well as a sink with mixer tap. A reinforced plate under the cockpit floor provides for installation of a game chair and the wide coaming overlaps into the cockpit for comfortable stand-up fishing and installation of rod holders. The luxurious main deck saloon features a fully equipped galley forward, leather L-shape lounge around a fold-out table in the starboard aft quarter, and a large lounge in the forward port quarter opposite the galley. In the enclosed flybridge is an L-shape lounge around a solid table seating five guests forward of the helm. The bridge is open at the rear, with mid rails and clears provide protection in difficult weather conditions. Twin hatches in the hardtop or an optional sunroof provide both light and air. The forward part of the lower deck accommodates the sleeping area which has three double cabins. Here is a master stateroom to port with a queen double bed and ensuite bathroom, guest stateroom forward and bunk cabin amidships on the starboard side. The forward and starboard cabins share the second bathroom. Standard engines for the Maritimo 470 Offshore Convertible are twin Volvo Penta 670hp which give top speed of 30 knots, and a cruise of 25 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.5 m (54.9ft)
Hull Length - 15.5 m
Beam - 5.00 m
Draft - 1.20 m
Displacement - 19000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 3000 l
Water Capacity - 400 l
Accommodation - 5 berths in 3 cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 670hp
Speed - 30 knots max, 25 knots cruise
www.maritimo.com.au

July 29, 2010

Project: Bavaria 34 Sport

Bavaria continues to update its Sport Cruiser line up which started with the 28, went into the 38 the past winter, and now goes with this 34 Sport project set to be introduced in the fall of this year. Continuing the partnership started with BMW Group DesignworksUSA for the 46 Deep Blue into the end of 2008, and followed on the Sport models this new Bavaria captures a lot of the features found on the larger latest introduced 38 Sport. The cockpit for example is very similar, as is the high free board, and the layout of the two cabin interior. The 34 Sport also continues in more upgrading from Bavaria being offered with a three wood color, and different upholstery choice. Bavaria also mentions a very competitive price but this is given with petrol gas engines, which makes the capability of a cabin cruiser boat very limited and expensive to run. For any ten metre plus cruiser I always suggest the choice of a twin diesel here offered in three different horse powers from smaller twin 220hp up to large 370hp Volvo's.

New Model: Rose Island 43 Lobster

Unveiled during the Rose Island Day held at the Genoa Airport Marina the past May, the new 43 Lobster has been a waited model from this builder who was among the first of the Italian builders to produce Traditional down East looking lobster boats back in 2000. The new 43 Lobster sits well in between the long living 38 and 49 models, and is a two cabin with two en suite heads Traditional Cruiser. The owners suite to fore has also a much sought but hard to find separate shower and toilet room. The main deck covered by the hard top of the super structure is the place for the living area with the helm station to fore being joined by a C-shaped dinette for six persons, and a unit with a pop up TV and a disappearing galley. Drawers in the 43 Lobster will also reflect a sea keeping quality with the element of safety similar to that found on long range and sail type boats. Finishing for the interior areas is with solid Pink Cedar, Kaya Mahogany, and Maple hard woods. Power for the 43 Lobster is from twin Fiat Power Train 450hp which should give a 30 knots top speed, and a 500 NM range at the most efficient hull speed. Official presentation for the 43 Lobster will now move to the up coming Genoa and Cannes show held respectively in September and October.
Technical Data:
LOA - 13.98 m (45.8ft)
Hull Length - 12.60 m
Beam - 4.28 m
Draft - 0.98 m
Displacement - 12.8 t dry
Fuel Capacity - 2072 l
Water Capacity - 686 l
Max Persons - 12
Accommodation - 4 + 1 berths
Engines - 2 x FPT N67 450hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 30 knots max
Range - 500 NM estimated
Project - Aldo Gatti lines, Marino Alfani interior, Fabio Rosa engineering
Certification - CE A
www.roseisland.it

July 28, 2010

Graham Beck 1930 - 2010

Graham Beck, former owner of UK boat builder Princess Yachts, has passed away at the age of 80 on 27 July. The South African tycoon bought Princess as part of the Renwick Group in 1981, selling it to French billionaire Bernard Arnault in 2008. He also owned one of the largest wine producers in South Africa and had interests in mining and racehorse breeding. Entrepreneur, coal magnate and esteemed South African wine farmer, Graham Beck, died in London of cancer. Born in Cape Town and a graduate of the University of Cape Town, Beck pursued several business interests, but it was his love of horses that led him to Robertson which is located about two hours inland from Cape Town. Princess chairman David King told the Plymouth Herald that Beck was the the best owner Princess ever could have wished for. Beck, whose body was yesterday being flown to Israel for burial, is survived by his wife Rhona and son Antony.

Project: Monte Carlo Yachts MCY76

Monte Carlo Yachts MCY76 is the largest project to ever come from Beneteau Group to what concerns a motor boat. This new brand will focus in challenging the bigger boat market from Beneteau. While the capital for this venture is French, it is worth to note that all the management as is the premises of the yard will be Italian. The yard will be located in Monfalcone on the North East part of Italy just above Trieste, management trusted to Carla Demaria, design to Venetian firm Nuvolari Lenard, and Slovenian company Seaway taking care of engineering and naval architecture. The MCY76 is a bit different on the exterior looks, with its most distinct feature being the longer to today standard fore deck. From a certain point of view you can think it is one of the modern explorer yachts coming from Europe, but once you see the engines, MAN 1200 or 1400hp and estimated speeds of 31 knots max you can rest assured this is a planning motor yacht. The MCY76 will also have six version choices in flybridge, main and lower deck. You can go from a standard radar arch, to a T-top which is equipped with solar panels, three galley choices, and three or four cabins lower deck. Looking different to the competition is the fore peak with two C-shaped dinette to the sides converting to two sun pads, and an aft located dining table in the saloon. Construction is also very high tech what is a Vinilester resin, carbon fibre, Kevlar build with structural reinforcements being self supporting sandwich plating with longitudinal structures which have no floor plates.
www.montecarloyachts.it

New Model: Oryx 54 Fly

Oryx is a company part of the UAE Gulf Craft group, and the 54 Fly is its latest model. Gulf Craft also has the Majesty yachts which build up to 130 feet, and Silver Craft brands. The 54 Fly is the largest of the five model line up of Open and Fly Series from Oryx. The interior of the Oryx 54 Fly will have a three double guest cabin lower deck with a full beam owners suite, and a guest head. A single berth crew cabin with head is located to aft. The welcoming dual level saloon on the main deck features an L-shaped galley, C-shaped saloon, and C-shaped dinette. Finishing although a bit spartan compared to European standards is for a light color wood which suits well to the warm climates of the gulf regions. Power is from twin standard Volvo 575hp or optional 715hp.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.76 m (55ft)
Waterline Length - 14.56 m
Beam - 4.77 m
Draft - 1.06 m
Fuel Capacity - 2268 l
Water Capacity - 567 l
Accommodation - 6 guest berths in 3 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth
Engines - 2 x Volvo D9 575hp, D12 715hp
www.oryx-yachts.com

July 27, 2010

Project: Vismara MY68 Navetta

Vismara is an Italian builder located in Tuscany town of Lucca province of Viareggio which started its adventure first as dealer for the renowned Baltic Yachts built in Finland, and then as one off builder of unique Sail boats which later on moved to the Power world. So far Vismara has build two motor boats the 16.59 m Bwave which was the first, and the 28 MAS. Vismara also helped Buzzi build the 80 Record thanks to its knowledge of high technology construction. The MY68 Navetta is testimony of Vismara will to embrace more the motor boat market and is a build for a Spanish client who came to Vismara after seeing the 16 metre Bwave. This particular client wanted a ship like motor yacht with military looks of sixty feet, which then it evolved to a 66 and now to the MY68 Navetta. In this project we see a lot of the themes which Alessandro Vismara praises for like light weight fast construction saving thirty per cent in displacement and weighing at about 30 tons. Navetta which means Ship, might just be the case here but think of it as one coming from the future. The hull of MY68 Navetta is in fact unusual for a ship with a deep Vee shape so this is a very hybrid design which wants to move away from titles. This particular project will have only two cabins, plus crew. The owner stateroom is located to fore, and a VIP suite is to midship which features two French beds. Speed is an estimated max of 35 knots with only two 800hp engines a power usually found on motor boats about three meters smaller which show that the MY68 Navetta is evolutionary.
www.vismara-mc.com

New Model: Princess 72 Motor Yacht

The Princess 72 Motor Yacht was launched at the start of the year London Boat show and continues the expansion of this line which was started in 2007 with the introduction of the 95 flagship. She is also at 22 metres the smallest of the Motor Yacht line, which is reinventing Princess larger sized series. Replacing the 67 and 21M, the 72 Motor Yacht features a four double guest cabin interior, with three heads. An owners full beam stateroom with beauty desk, sofa, walk in wardrobe, and private shower head is located to midship. To foreship is the VIP suite, two double cabins sit in the middle of the lower deck, and a single head complete the guest accommodation area. A double crew cabin with shower head is located aft. The modern single level saloon with a C-shaped sofa, L-shaped dinette, and an open style galley makes part of the interior living main deck. Outside areas continue the latest must have features as the fore deck settee, and an up and down bathing platform which adds space for another toy besides the one sitting on the flybridge. The flybridge is spacious although having been personally on the 67 the plans alone do show it smaller to the older model. The 72 Motor Yacht continues Princess evolution into vacuum infusion environmental friendly and lighter build method. Considering that a 2012 date can enforce this building method in all developed countries i.e. Europe and the States it is better to get going now. Princess is so far the only British builder building complete resin infused models with the 78 and 72 series constructed in this method. Power is from a no choice of twin MTU 1500hp which give a top speed of 34 knots to the 45 tons 72 Motor Yacht.
Technical Data:
LOA - 22.35 m (73.3ft) incl pulpit
Beam - 5.49 m
Draft - 1.68 m
Displacement - 45 t
Fuel Capacity - 5000 l
Water Capacity - 1342 l
Accommodation - 8 guest berths, 2 crew berths
Engines - 2 x MTU 10v2000M93 1500hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - 34 knots max
Construction - resin infusion
www.princessyachts.com

July 26, 2010

Boat Review: Galeon 325 Open

Presentation
When Galeon launched the 325 Open in the fall of 2008, the global press agreed that the Polish builder was showing a luxury in a ten meter sport cruiser as never seen before in this size. Apart from having sweet lines above and below the waterline designed by British architect Tony Castro, the Galeon 325 Open has exterior spaces to match those of a sports boat, and interior comfort of twin cabins plus saloon with galley saying I am a pure Cruiser. If this is not enough the 325 Open makes also choice an important part of its DNA, with three different wood choices for the interior, various color choices for the outside, and sixteen in different engine choices. If how some say luxury is in the choosing you surely have a lot of it here.
Accommodation
The 325 Open welcomes you aft with a layout giving a lot of open sports boat feel with a central passage way which leads to the cabins and all the important areas. To port side of the cockpit is a sun lounger with a moving back rest which extends its size, a C-shaped dinette, and a lounger under the windshield to fore. To starboard is a direct one step passageway for the side deck, wet bar, and a single person helm station. The wet bar can also be equipped like a second outdoor kitchen, with wash basin, small outside fridge, and a grill cook top. On top of the coach roof foredeck is also a central sun pad for two persons along with well sized side decks protected with stainless steel railing, and chain locker. The aft bathing platform which in standard format is only one foot in length can also be optionally extended to be over three feet. I would suggest this option to be on top of your list as apart to providing more bathing space gives also safer and better tender stowage.
A central door with three steps leads to the accommodation lower deck. To the center below is the main living area with a C-shaped saloon to port which converts to a double berth, and a fully equipped galley opposite. The kitchen is equipped with a two burner hybrid electric or optional diesel hob, wash basin, and a well sized fridge with freezer. To fore is cabin one with a double berth resting to the starboard side. Mid ship aft is the second cabin which for floor space I would consider it to be more the owners room. The double berth looks to the starboard side, and has a cabinet drawer with wash basin to port opposite. Performance
For the small Galeon 325 Open, designer Tony Castro opted for a deep Vee hull with a twenty one degrees dead rise. A deep Vee gives superior performance in following seas, good wave cutting in head seas, and beam seas just needing a bit of trimming to make it right. There is sixteen total power options for the 325 Open and Galeon gave me some data to show and compare figures. This data is proof of the benefits of diesel over petrol in boats! Petrol best is 160nm at 20 knots with twin small Volvo 190hp, and Diesel all double D4 engines delivering a 300nm range at 22 or 24 knots cruise. The best performing diesel is the Volvo D4 300hp which delivers speeds of 38 knots max, and a 24 knots economic cruise. A 40hp less twin 260 gives 36 knots max, and the same 24 knots best economic cruise which also delivers a till the last drop 300nm range, which would be a safe 240nm. The best economic cruise between 20 to 25 knots with all the engines show that this is the optimum hull speed of the 325 Open.
Positive
Main deck layout
Two well sized cabins below
Various engine choices
Three wood type options
Negative
Optional extended bathing platform
Competition
A still competitive size despite this of ten metres being abandoned over the years by builders who in the past made it there bread and butter. The Galeon 325 Open definitely scores points for its personalization and various engine options. Criteria was for 32 to 36 feet size, two separate double berths, and Open design. Coincidentally the American brands minus the currently in financial trouble Doral are missing as all offered two convertible saloons, with a double fore berth below. Airon 345 - three berths aft cabin, C-shaped and L-shaped settee cockpit
Arturo Stabile 33 Stama - large bathing platform hiding passarelle
Atlantis 35 Plus - intelligent opening forward bulkhead, M.Peters hull
Bavaria 34 Sport - a new BMW design to be launched this fall
Bruno Abbate G36 Primatist - optional radar arch, high performing hull
Doral 33 Intrigue - Canada offering with two double berths plus saloon
Elan Power 35 - also a Tony Castro design, small exterior, different saloon galley
Fiart 34 Genius - large open cockpit with smart integrated bathing platform
Mano 32 Sport - classic looks, two settee aft cockpit
Oryx 36 Open - various options like outboards and semi HT, split level main deck
Rio 36 Air - full beam owners cabin, open plan flash main deck
Saver 330 Sport - flagship from this Sicilian builder with two double cabins
WILD CARD: Sealine 35 Sport - open no radar arch, 3 berths mid ship cabin, M.Peters hull
Conclusion
There are many things to like of the 325 Open but surely a dear theme is how Galeon used a similar customisation in a small model as that seen in the much bigger 50 feet plus boats. This is indeed rare, as in yachting a company usually uses the image of the flagships but rarely puts the choice available of the bigger models. Instead Galeon choose to learn more from the bigger boat experience, and instead of keeping it dedicated to the large sizes also used it on the smaller models as the 325. This is also showed in selling numbers and despite a recession economy in recent times Galeon has sold thirty units of the 325 in about fifteen months production. Just as well important the 325 is also the first model to have a vacuum infused hull by the Polish Straszyn factory, which apart giving better resin balance and 20% less weight makes also Galeon in line with what should become legal for Europe and American boat builders in later times. The 325 is also available as the HTO identical to the Open expect for the fact of a stylish rigid hard top on the cockpit which makes it idle for use all year round.
Technical Data
LOA. 11.10 metres (36.4ft) 10.4 metres without extended platform
Hull Length. 10.00 metres
Waterline length. 7.85 metres
Beam. 3.35 metres
Draft. 1.15 metres max with drives down
Displacement. 6448 kg light, 8228 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity. 750 litres
Water Capacity. 200 litres
Max Persons. 8
Accommodation. 4 + 2 berths
Engines. Petrol 2 x Volvo 4.3GL 190hp, 4.3GXi 225hp, 5.0GXi 270hp, 5.7 GXI 320hp
Diesel 1 x Volvo D6 370hp, 2 x Volvo D3 200hp, D3 220hp, D4 225hp, D4 260hp, D4 300hp
1 x Cummins QSD4.2 350hp, QSD2.8 220hp, QSD4.2 280hp, QSD4.2 320hp, QSD4.2 350hp
2 x Volkswagen TDI 265hp
Propulsion. stern drive Volvo DPS, DPH, Mercruiser Bravo I, Bravo III
Speed. 38 knots max 24 knots cruise with 300hp
Range. 300nm at 24 knots cruise estimated with full tank consumption
Hull Shape. deep Vee shape with 21 degrees dead rise
Project. Tony Castro
Construction. Vacuum resin infusion polyester resin
Certification. CE B ISO12217-1
Picture Copyright Galeon. Data Galeon.

July 25, 2010

New Model: Filippetti 95 Bisquit

Fano South Adriatic Sea, July 8, 2010 was the first sea trials of the new Filippetti 95 Biscuit a thirty meters super yacht one off construction committed to the shipyard and Hot Lab Studio. The project stems from two factors: the thirty-year experience of Filippetti family, now driving a new shipyard, and the interiors styling bearing the signature of Hot Lab Studio. The construction of the 95 Biscuit, initially assigned to a shipyard in the Calabria region in Italy, was subsequently entrusted to Filippetti Yacht in Mondolfo Puglia, where the yacht was delivered in January 2010 to be refitted and completed. Filippetti Yacht was involved in the construction of the superstructure, painting and assembly of all components of the boat: engines and steels up to the whole furniture. For the interior design. Hot Lab Studio provided a constant and valuable advice with the aim to give the yacht an elegant and refined style. 95 Biscuit has two decks and a flybridge. On the lower deck there are two twin staterooms, the VIP and the master cabin, each fully equipped. Also on the lower deck, the crew area has been designed to comfortably house four persons. A stunning full-beam master stateroom matches a mix of dark woods with fair leather and steel. On the main deck the brightness of the staterooms is highlighted by fair colors on walls and on ceilings. The living area is spacious and comfortable, with a bar and an office corner. A big L-shaped sofa and two armchairs by Moroso are present in the layout. The dining area is detached and composed by a ten-person capacity table designed by Saarinen, with small armchairs by Moroso. A wine cellar is also present. The galley is a synthesis of pragmatic use of the space and elegance with Gaggenau components adding to the two refrigerator-freezers, 90-mm induction hobs, microwave and 90 cm electric fridge, ice maker, washing machine and coffee machine. A crew mess, equipped with TV and space for four persons, is also present. The flying bridge has been conceived for relax and outdoor leisure: wet bar, wash basin, grill and refrigerators. At starboard there are two sofas. Each sofa has been studied for a different use: the former can be used as dining area and includes a teak table for twelve people designed by Hot Lab; the later L-shaped, can be convertible in a spacious sunbathing area. A second cockpit and two chaises lounges are the final touch to the furniture on the sun deck. Filippetti 95 Biscuit was officially launched on July 20 in Fano, where it will continue for a long cruise in the Mediterranean which will lead her to an official presentation in the Cannes show in September 2010. Powered by twin Cats 1821hp the 95 Bisquit reaches top speeds of 28 knots and a cruise of 26.
Technical Data:
LOA - 29.57 m (97ft)
Waterline Length - 25.40 m
Beam - 6.50 m
Draft - 1.70 m
Displacement - 110000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 17520 l
Water Capacity - 2250 l
Accommodation - 8 guest in 4 cabins, 4 crew in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x Cat C32 ACERT 1821hp
Propulsion - line shaft with ZF gearbox
Speed - 28 knots max, 26 knots cruise
Project - Hot Lab Studio

July 24, 2010

Project: Canados 100

Canados take a very new approach with this 100 project set to launch for 2012. Designed by Carlo Galeazzi, the 100 features loads of glassed surfaces on both the hull and super structure, with modern mechanisms as fold down terraces and bathing platform also being an important part of this project. Sitting in between the 86 and the 116 model, designer Galeazzi distinct himself from the classic lines of the brand which I had the feeling where set to continue with the latest new model that was the 76. If the 2006 launched Luiz De Basto designed 90 Open was modern, the 100 project is surely more to it and sets to reinvent the lines with new design touches as the forward looking radar arch, more straight hull forms, and glassed surfaces. Even the topsides of the foredeck are a distance from the Canados usual low surfaces here appearing more streamlined and long. This design feature mostly happening because of the raised pilot house. The 100 will have an option of a four or five cabin interior depending on owners choice, and will have two crew rooms. Power will be from twin MTU 2600hp which should give a 31 knots top speed. Canados is owned since 2007 by Balmoora Capital who also own the British sailing yacht brand Oyster. www.canados.com

July 22, 2010

Project: Sunseeker 63 Manhattan

While its British competitors Fairline and Princess seem to have abandoned or never used the Volvo IPS propulsion, Sunseeker has recently shown more interest in the use of the forward looking dual propeller pods. Sunseeker first use of the Volvo IPS was as an option on the 2009 stopped in production 47 Portofino, and today the pods are available on the 48 Portofino, 52 Predator, and 60 Predator. The new 63 Manhattan project is to be Sunseeker first flybridge boat using the IPS propulsion. A video on the Sunseeker website titled Manhattan 63 Test Launch, design manager Jonathan Goldie explains the benefits, and that compared to the 60 Manhattan, on which this project is developed the 63 Manhattan with twin 900hp should develop five more nautical miles of top speed at 34 knots. The test is also conducted with an extra four tonnes of weight. Goldie also speaks about the known IPS benefits as easy to manoeuvre, better fuel consumption, and the no crew need for a nineteen metre flybridge boat. So far Sunseeker has not released plans for the 63 Manhattan but do accept a three cabin interior with extra spaces then the competition thanks to the benefits of more power to the prop and the aft location of a smaller engine set up then to the usual in this size.

July 21, 2010

New Model: Ranger Tugs R27

Ranger Tugs introduced in May, 2010, the R27, an all new yacht that incorporates many of the standard features of the Ranger 29 plus the expanded cockpit of the Ranger 25SC. Things like a standard propane cook top and oven, microwave, inverter, flat-screen TV, and many more. Many other standard features such as bow and stern thrusters, Garmin VHF, stereo, windlass, and electric head that usually are options on other boats, are included as standard on the 27. With an efficient 190 hp Yanmar diesel, the Ranger 27 cruises economically across a range of speeds. It's two metres and a half of beam permits trailering anywhere, giving owners an endless choice of cruising grounds. The Ranger 27 can be fitted out with a list of options including a generator, air conditioning, Garmin touch-screen chart plotter/radar/sonar, autopilot, and other popular additions for a very competitive price. The Chesapeake Edition is configured for comfortable and practical cruising anywhere on the US east coast, Canadian Maritiames, the loop, the Bahamas, inland lakes and rivers, and more.
Technical Data:
LOA - 8.10 m (27.1ft)
Beam - 2.6 m
Draft - 0.66 m
Displacement - 2450 kg
Fuel Capacity - 379 l
Water Capacity - 151 l
Engine - 1 x Yanmar 190hp
Speed - 21 knots cruise
www.rangertugs.com

July 20, 2010

Project: Cerri 70 Flyingsport

After two years of verbal speculation that Cerri will build a smaller Flyingsport, finally we can see the project rendering of the 70. As any Cerri model the 70 Flyingsport will be a semi custom construction, available on plan with a three or four cabin lower deck layout, and a unique on the way it uses the spaces which feels it is a much bigger boat. The four cabin plan will have an aft looking galley on the main deck, with all the cabins being equipped with en-suite heads. Both the owners stateroom to midship and VIP will also have a bidet. The full beam midship owners suite also features an L-shaped settee to starboard, and an office desk. In the three cabin choice the owner can choose to move the galley down, or create another more private saloon. Other special features of the 70 Flyingsport will be the internal staircase to the fly helm deck, and an opening central window door on the front windshield which facilitates movement from the fore deck lounger to the internal saloon. A two person crew cabin with a small shower head is located on the bow tip just behind the chain locker. To aft will be a tender garage where it is possible to stow a jet rib of three metres. Power for the 70 Flyingsport is from twin MAN or MTU from 1500 to 1800hp, which should keep in touch with the usual forty knots performance of the bigger Cerri models. So far Cerri is waiting for order one of the 70, and from there build time will be about eighteen to twenty months depending on specification.
www.cerricantierinavali.it

July 19, 2010

Class 1 - Norwegian Grand Prix

Race 1
Fazza produced a dominant and faultless display to win race 1 of the BMW Norwegian Grand Prix, maintaining the perfect start to their title defence and extending their lead at the top of the World Championship standings. Norways Welmax was unable to match their spectacular win in the Saturday morning Edox Pole Position, finishing second, with Spirit of Dubai completing the podium with yet another impressive performance. The defending World Champions found themselves down in third spot at the first turn behind their team-mates and Relekta, but were able to overhaul both outfits on the long run to the second turn to lead at the end of lap 1. Once out front they opened up an unassailable lead, going on to win by over eight seconds at an average speed of 186.63km/h. For Welmax, dropping to fifth place from first on the start line, and giving away over 30-seconds to Fazza 3 in the first two laps proved too much of a mountain to climb. And despite fighting their way back up through the field, the chequered flag came too soon to end hopes for a Norwegian win on home waters. Spirit of Dubai maintained their impressive form to take their second podium of the day, bringing Victory Team's new design in third place in only their second race together and despite dropping a place at the start. Fazza 1 compromised their race on the opening lap, missing a turn-buoy, and incurring a penalty long-lap which dropped them back down the field, but managed to salvage valuable points, finishing in fourth place. Despite bringing Relekta home in fifth place, Christian Zaborowski and Paul Gaiser produced a more than encouraging performance in their first race together. A brilliant start moved them from fifth on the start-line into second place, before being overhauled by Welmax, but then maintaining third place before they too incurred a penalty long-lap, ultimately dropping them to fifth. Primatist continued to endure a frustrating weekend, with technical problems preventing a start. Sarurday’s win for Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi, a fifteenth for both, extends their lead at the top of Championship to 21-points and their unbeaten win-run to seven.
Race 2
Dubai’s Victory Team produced a racing master-class in race 2 of the BMW Norwegian Grand Prix, with Fazza 3 and Fazza 1 finishing first and third, and the newest design to emerge from the Victory stable, Spirit of Dubai, finishing second. After a spectacular and dramatic start, which saw home favourites Welmax win the drag-race to the first turn and lead the race for a lap-and-a-half and Fazza 1 almost flip before the first turn, a series of breakdowns reduced the numbers on the water to leave the Fazza crews and Spirit of Dubai out on their own to race for the podium places. For the second time in two Grands Prix the defending World Champions, Arif Al Zafeen and Nadir Bin Hendi, completed the win-double to take their eighth consecutive race win and extend their points lead in the Championship. After passing the stationary Welmax on lap 2 they were able to cruise to the finish, to complete the 68.12Nm race in 43mins 23.23secs at an average speed of 173.15km/h. Spirit of Dubai rounded off their impressive weekend with a third podium in Spirit of Dubai, splitting the two Fazza crews to finish in second place. After missing out yesterday, Fazza 1 bounced back to take their third podium of the year, finishing third, but first had to survive a scare at the start when the front-end went up in the wake of Relekta. For Welmax, it was a case of what might have been! After giving away 30-seconds at the start of race 1, a change of propellers and a different ratio setting gave them the advantage today, albeit momentarily, before they broke their rudder after crashing down heavily on the side of the boat in rough water. For Zabo Racing’s Christian Zaborowski and Paul Gaiser the promising start to their season was halted on lap 5 when a broken compressor belt ended Relekta’s race, with Giorgioffshore’s poor weekend compounded when a broken prop-shaft ended theirs. Today’s win, a sixteenth for Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi, increases their lead in the title race and puts them 29-points clear of the their team-mates and extends Victory team’s winning streak to 13-races. Class 1 now heads to Uddevalla for the Swedish Grand Prix, 6-8 August.
BMW NORWEGIAN GRAND PRIX, RACE 1 - results
1. Fazza 3 - A Al Zafeen (UAE) / N Bin Hendi (UAE) 00.30.14,01
2. Welmax - K Selmer (NOR) / J Tandberg (NOR) + 00.08,42
3. Spirit of Dubai – G Manuzzi (SMR) / G Carpitella (ITA) + 01.19,49
4. Fazza 1 - A Al Mehairbi (UAE) / M Al Marri (UAE) + 02.22,52
5. Relekta - P Gaiser (BRA) / C Zaborowski (NOR) + 03.02,86
Primatist - G Cappellini (ITA) / N Giorgi (ITA) dns
BMW NORWEGIAN GRAND PRIX, RACE 2 - results
1. Fazza 3 - A Al Zafeen (UAE) / N Bin Hendi (UAE) 00.43.23,23
2. Spirit of Dubai – G Manuzzi (SMR) / G Carpitella (ITA) + 00.03,14
3. Fazza 1 - A Al Mehairbi (UAE) / M Al Marri (UAE) + 02.37,11
4. Relekta - P Gaiser (BRA) / C Zaborowski (NOR) dnf
5. Welmax - K Selmer (NOR) / J Tandberg (NOR) dnf
6. Primatist - G Cappellini (ITA) / N Giorgi (ITA) dnf
UIM CLASS 1 WORLD POWERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIP - after race 4 of 12
1. Fazza 3 - 82pts
2. Fazza 1 - 53pts
3. Welmax - 29pts
4. Spirit of Dubai - 27pts
5. Primatist - 23pts
6. Team Abu Dhabi - 16pts
7. Foresti & Suardi - SCAM - 11pts
8. Welmax Alianza - 10pts
9. Relekta - 7pts

July 18, 2010

New Model: Picchiotti 50 m Vitruvius Explorer

Exuma, is the first Picchiotti 50 metre super yacht of three such units sold as of today by the Perini Navi Group under the Picchiotti brand. The first Vitruvius was launched in the beginning of this month in La Spezia, and marks Perini Navi Group’s entrance in the field of motor yachts and the new reorganization of the Italian shipyards with the change in the company name of the Cantieri Navali Beconcini shipyard of La Spezia to Picchiotti. The new 50m Vitruvius Explorer also marks the return of the legendary Picchiotti name. The new generation of Picchiotti Vitruvius series motor yachts, of which three further sizes are available was born from the collaboration between Vitruvius Ltd, Philippe Briand and the Perini Navi Group. It is conceived with a focus on top efficiency for fully autonomous navigation. The aluminum hull is characterized by streamlined, slender traits and follows the principles of the BOS Hull; Briand Optimized Stretched Hull that allows to enjoy a gross tonnage of 497 tons, displacement of 400 tones, a reduced draught of 2.3 meters for navigating even in shallower waters, and a range of 5,500 miles at 12 knots. Exuma was conceived and created with a strong aptitude for exploration in mind, and has the capability of stowing large amounts of equipment on board to allow exploring the most beautiful and remote areas of the world: an amphibious 16.4 ft vehicle, completely customized with Iveco Campagnola mechanical components and frame, a Hov Pod 12ft hovercraft housed inside the two fore lateral garages with gull-wing door openings, two tenders, respectively measuring 21ft and 14ft, two electric land scooters, two Seabobs and a Sea-Doo RXT 250 jet ski. The yacht is also equipped with diving areas and equipment. The interior and exterior spaces are designed to increase privacy among shipboard guests and to enhance outdoor living. Internal furnishings are designed by Perini Navi’s Interior Designers with a focus on classic maritime style tradition, essentially using oak, teak and Italian marble.
Technical Data:
LOA - 50 m (164ft)
Waterline length - 48.90 m
Beam - 9.50 m
Draft - 2.30 m
Displacement - 400 t
Fuel Capacity - 75000 l
Water Capacity - 14000 l
Engines - 2 x Cat C32 Acert
Speed - 16 knots, 12 knots cruise
Range - 5500 nm at 12 knots
Construction - Aluminium
Project - Philippe Briand Vitruvius Ltd, Perini Navi interior
Certficiation - ABS Malta cross A1 Yachting Commercial Service, AMS, MCA
www.picchiottiyachts.com

July 17, 2010

Project: Pershing 92

While many are waiting for the new Pershing 108 to go into the water, this famous builder presents the project of a 92, which eventually will replace the 90 presented in 2005. Fulvio De Simoni who has been Pershing designer since 1985, continues the new course with the 92 as undertaken in 2007 with the 72, and followed later on by the 64, 80, and the in progress 108. As expected the 92 will feature many must have features of modern Super Sport Yachts, as a second helm up top, and fore deck settee. The 92 will also continue the collaborations as undertaken by Pershing in recent periods with Poltrana Frau who takes care for the soft furnishing of the interior, and ErnestoMeda for the galley. Other usual Pershing concepts also featured on the 92 will be the full opening patio door as featured in the main deck, making the interior saloon a one part entertainment area with the aft cockpit. The 92 in collaboration with Besenzoni will also have a unique folding glass door up front where from the bow one can go into the interior saloon. Accommodation lower deck will be a four cabin plan, with full beam owners suite, VIP to fore, and two double guest cabin in between. Here is a semi custom plan with the owners cabin being available in three different layouts. Power for the 92 will be from twin MTU 2638hp coupled to Arneson surface drives, which should give the slender hulled 92 a top speed of 42 knots, and a cruise of 38.

July 16, 2010

New Model: Portofino 11 Spider

Portofino continues to expand its 11 range, with the fourth Spider version which follows the Flybridge, Coupe, and Fisherman models introduced since 2008. Portofino also offers the Spider version for its entry level 750, and 10 models. Continuing the Zagano design of this series the Portofino 11 Spider has the bigger exterior, dedicated to full Al fresco entertainment. For having this you loose the extra two berths which come from converting the C-shaped settee as available in the first introduced Flybridge and Coupe versions. The settee is L-shaped in the Coupe version and opposite to port side you get the galley, and helm station. Below you get the usual layout of the 11 series, with the owners cabin to fore, a two person bunk guest cabin, and complete shower head.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.47 m (37.6ft)
Registry Length - 9.48 m
Beam - 3.54 m
Displacement - 9.5 t
Fuel Capacity - 750 l
Water Capacity - 250 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins
Max Persons - 10
Engines - 2 x Volvo IPS350 260hp, IPS400 300hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward looking dual propeller pods
Speed - 34 knots with IPS400
Hull Shape - 18 degrees vee
Designer - A. Zagano
www.portofinomarine.com

July 15, 2010

Project: Mares 43 Fly Bridge

US builder Mares presents the first of its promised revamped models, with the project of the 43 Fly Bridge. Founded in 1982, this builder located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida USA has at the moment a twelve model line up which bases itself on three platforms the 38, 43, and 54. The very euro styled 43 Fly Bridge project will have a planning cat hull. The accommodation will have a living on the main deck, with sleeping quarters all located below. I do admit that the exterior is good looking in the above rendering, although they look similar to an Italian design Spanish built product presented in 2007 of a similar size. The Mares 43 Fly Bridge will be built with latest resin infusion methods, and is to be powered by twin Cummins engines with ZF Zeus pods propulsion. www.maresinternational.com

Class 1 - Norwegian Preview

All eyes will be on Welmax at this weekend's BMW Norwegian Grand Prix (16-18 July), round 2 of the UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Championship, to see if Jorn Tandberg and Kolbjorn Selmer can end Victory Team's winning streak. The all-Norwegian partnership, who went second quickest in qualifying and took third place in race 1 at the Brazilian Grand Prix, look the most likely challengers capable of staging an upset, with Tandberg looking for his fourth Grand Prix career win, his third in Arendal, as Selmer goes for his first to add to his tally of six podiums from 24 starts. But it will be Fazza 3 who will line up as the firm favourites, looking to repeat the dominance they showed in the season-opener in Rio de Janeiro when they took the win-treble. Arif Al Zafeen, a winner in Arendal in 2007, and Nadir Bin Hendi, the defending World Champions, will be aiming to extend the team's 11-race unbeaten run and their six-race winning streak, as they go for race win number 15. Fazza 1's Abdullah Al Mehairbi and former World Champion, Mohammed Al Marri, also pose a threat to their team-mates and Welmax, with this relatively new partnership which came together at the Romania Grand Prix last season looking to build on and go one better than their two second places in Rio. Three new partnerships will make their season-debuts in Arendal: Giovanni Carpitella, a multiple race winner taking Italian, European, Middle East and World titles in Class 3,6litre, P1, the XCAT series and a winner of the APBA championship in the USA, teams up with Giorgio Manuzzi in Spirit of Dubai - the latest design to come out of the Victory stable - who made his Class 1 debut in 2007 and taken two podium finishes from 15-starts. Giorgioffshore field an all-Italian line-up in Primatist, with throttleman Nicola Giorgi teaming-up with ten-times F1 Powerboat World Champion, Guido Cappellini, who returned to Class 1 racing at the Brazilian Grand Prix - taking third place in race 2. Norwegian, Christian Zaborowski, who won in Arendal in 2006, heads up a new team, Zabo Racing, running a Mercury V8-powered Maritimo hull. Zaborowski will be joined in boat 91 Relekta, by former Class 1 Brazilian Champion, Paul Gaiser. But the team for all to beat is Victory, the most successful team to race in Arendal, winning seven times from 12 starts, their first win coming in 1994; since regaining the World title in 2007, the team has won 18 out of 25 races, with Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi netting 14 - 10 of those together. In the last three years, just three teams other than Victory have taken race wins - four by Spirit of Norway in 2007, two by Jotun and the last team to beat them, Qatar 95, in 2008. 2010 sees a round of the UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Championship being staged in Norway for the 17th consecutive year; Arendal hosted the first in 1994 - won by Victory Team's Saeed Al Tayer and Felix Serralles - and this year hosts its 13th Grand Prix. Oslo has hosted eight Grands Prix and Trondheim two. The action starts with first practice on Friday afternoon followed by the Class 1 Edox Speed Run. Second practice on Saturday morning is immediately followed by qualifying in the Edox Pole Position and Race 1, 50.85Nm - 9 laps, including one long lap. A final practice on Sunday morning is followed by Race 2, 68.21Nm - 12 laps, including two long laps.
UIM CLASS 1 WORLD POWERBOAT CHAMPIONSHIP - after race 2 of 12
1. Fazza 3 - 40pts
2. Fazza 1 - 30pts
3. Duemme - Foresti & Suardi - 21pts
4. Team Abu Dhabi - 16pts
5. Welmax - 12pts
6. Foresti and Suardi - SCAM - 11pts
7. Welmax Alianza - 10pts
EDOX POLE POSITION CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 1 of 6
1. Fazza 3 - 20pts
2. Welmax - 15pts
3. Fazza 1 - 12pts
4. Duemme - Foresti & Suardi - 9pts
5. Team Abu Dhabi - 7pts
6. Welmax Alianza - 5pts
7. Foresti and Suardi - SCAM - 4pts

July 14, 2010

New Model: Maritimo C47 Sports Cabriolet

Maritimo unveiled the new C47 Sports Cabriolet at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, revealing with it some world first IPS safety features, along the usual dynamic looks, styling and performance of this range. Most important the C47 Sports Cabriotlet introduces the world first positive buoyancy chambers in the engine room that house the twin Volvo Penta IPS600 power plants. During project Maritimo was concerned that due to the engines and fuel tanks both located aft, a breach in the hull could trap people forward, so the company worked it out with naval architect Stuart Ballantyne to integrate positive buoyancy tanks on the sides of the engine room. According to Volvo this is the first IPS build to have both water tight bulkheads and buoyancy chambers. Maritimo C47 Sports Cabriolet is also the first build coming from Oceania which gets a full Volvo Certified installation. This is a sets of rules dictating laminate schedule, the rings of the pods, and the fuel lines running at the bottom of the tanks. The C47 Sports Cabriolet continues the comfort of this range having a living on the main deck, two double cabins with full view windows below, and an aft deck which becomes an Al fresco entertainment area. The C47 also features a high low bathing platform for easy tender stowage.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.43 m (50.6ft)
Beam - 4.85 m
Draft - 1.00 m
Displacement - 13000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 1800 l
Water Capacity - 400 l
Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS600 dual propeller forward looking pods
Project - Maritimo, Stuart Ballantyne
www.maritimo.com.au

July 13, 2010

Project: Luhrs 30 Open

Luhrs is introducing a new 30 Open. At two inches short of 32 feet, this entry level sportfish cruiser will build on tried true platforms, incorporating new design features that are sure to make anglers sit up and take notice. Equipped with twin Yanmar 260 diesels, this boat will have the perfect blend of power and fuel efficiency. The transom door opens into a large split cockpit, and below, the Luhrs engineering and design team in Millville, New Jersey has laid out a thoughtful and roomy interior that sleeps four. The softer side of this hardcore fishing machine will be readily apparent, with Amtico wood slat floors, genuine Corian counter tops, and durably soft UltraLeather seating.