-pic of the month- Princess Launches New Suite of Films
The integration process of Nautitech Catamarans into Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH was completed at the beginning of the 2016/17 new fiscal year. As planned, Nautitech’s founder, Bruno Voisard, handed over the leadership of the successful catamaran boatyard to the management of Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH. In a joint statement, both parties expressed their satisfaction with the excellent cooperation that took place during the purchase and hand over process. Lutz Henkel, CEO of Bavaria Yachtbau GmbH, thanked Bruno Voisard personally for his contribution to the Nautitech brand over the past 15
years. In September 2014, Bavaria took over the Rochefort (France) based company and since then they have advanced production, supported the development of new models as well as the expansion of the dealer and service network. Bavaria Catamarans’ new Nautitech 46 Fly will have its world premier at the Salon Nautique in Cannes at the beginning of September. Along with the successful Nautitech 40 Open, the order numbers for the Nautitech 46 Open and Fly are at maximum capacity. The interior of the Nautitech 40 and Nautitech 46 are already being manufactured in Bavaria’s main factory in Giebelstadt near Würzburg (Germany). Further expansion of production at Rochefort is planned for the coming year.
Benetti and Kiton Partnership Between Italian Excellences
Kiton, a leading Italian company in the sector of bespoke tailoring and haute couture, is continuing to focus on end consumers and has signed a strategic partnership with Benetti, one of the world’s oldest yacht builders. The synergy between the two companies stems from the common goal of creating an exclusive bespoke experience for end consumers in line with a shared philosophy and shared values: passion, innovation and craftsmanship. “The aim of the partnership is to devote increasing attention to our customers who have chosen a unique and exclusive lifestyle”, says Antonio De Matteis, CEO of Kiton. He adds “Excellence and quality: these are the basic principles of our partnership of which I’m extremely proud. Benetti is a beacon of Italian excellence which perfectly matches our own values: a family-oriented atmosphere, innovation, style and quality.” “The distinctive style of two ambassadors of Italian manufacturing excellence is ideally suited to this agreement which will accompany us in boat shows throughout the world and other spheres as well”, commented Fabio Ermetto, chief content officer of Benetti. For the international boat shows scheduled until 2017 (the Cannes, Montecarlo, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong boat shows), Kiton’s professional tailors will be available to lend their skills to the leading yacht builder Benetti while the top clients of the Neapolitan fashion house will have privileged access to the world of Italian super yachts. The partnership will offer Benetti’s top clients the opportunity to arrange private visits to Kiton’s premises in Naples and Milan while Kiton’s top clients will be able to visit the “Yachtique” styling lounges devoted to luxury yachting as well as the Benetti boutique in Viareggio.
Hatteras New England Summer Tour
Lobster and lighthouses, historic homes and craggy coastlines; that's what we envision when we think of New England in the summertime. With its spectacular cruising waters, this is one of the world's top destinations for yachtsmen and women from around the globe. This summer, the new Hatteras 70 Motor Yacht is gracing New England's coastal waters as well, on its "demo tour" with the team from Boston Yacht Sales.
Hinckley New Company President and Chief Executive Officer
The Board of Directors of The Hinckley Company, is thrilled to announce that Peter O'Connell will be joining the team as the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer in Portsmouth, RI on September 1st. Peter and his family currently live in Madison, CT and will soon be relocating to Rhode Island. Peter is an experienced and avid boater and also the proud owner of a Hinckley Picnic Boat called Retriever. After a thorough and exhaustive search process, Peter rose easily to become our top candidate. He embodies exactly what we sought for this important role. His experience as a Hinckley buyer and service customer provide useful insights and perspectives. He has proven successes as CEO of important and relevant companies, including Navtec and Lewmar. Most recently he served as CEO of Datacom Systems, a privately held technology company. But above all these career distinctions, Peter's winning and infectious personality made him the leading candidate to become the seventh CEO in our Company's rich history.
Thierry Verstraete has resumed his attempt to solo navigate his Nordhavn 56 Motorsailer from Newport, RI to Belgium. After a 12-day layover in the Azores, Verstraete has resolved his autopilot issues, caught up on sleep and is taking on Leg 2 of his mission with renewed gusto. During the first 20 days at sea, Deo Juvante has performed flawlessly until a sudden glitch with its auto-pilot forced Verstraete to pull into the Azores for an unexpected layover. Late last week, a technician from Cay Electronics in Portsmouth, RI, which performed the initial install flew over to fix the autopilot. The tech added a second autopilot; with the redundancy Verstraete hopes to avoid the problem again. After spending the past two weeks getting some badly needed shut-eye, Verstraete resumed his quest to conquer the Atlantic alone. The failed autopilot was an abrupt and brutal hiccup in Verstraete’s trip and not one that could be overcome due to its vital role in solo cruising. Despite dashing his dream of a non-stop passage, Verstraete has certainly made the most of his time in the Azores by exploring the island, putting his painted stamp on the a concrete walkway surrounding Marina Horta, and re-uniting with his family who flew from Belgium to see him. Verstraete has approximately 1400 nm remaining in the second leg of his trip. In doing so, even broken into two legs, he will become the first person ever to solo-cross an ocean in a Nordhavn.
Numarine New USA Dealer
Numarine is proud to announce the appointment of Numarine USA as its exclusive distributor for USA and Canada, in partnership with industry leader Bradford Marine. The company – based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida – will organize and manage a network of sale and after sale facilities for Numarine owners along the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines as well as the Gulf of Mexico and Canada, while leveraging the capabilities, resources, and infrastructures of the 3rdgeneration operations of Bradford Marine. Third-generation Bradford Marine family member, Jack Nitabach, has taken the helm of Numarine USA to offer the products to clients in the United States. Nitabach says, “Numarine yachts are a new product to the US market that I truly believe will offer US clients the best value in the current market. Under the leadership of Numarine’s founder and CEO, Omer Malaz, the company has grown into one of the most efficient shipyards I have seen to date, producing some of the finest yachts available today. By adding the service and support of a major shipyard like Bradford Marine, we have the team necessary to build a new brand into a household name here in America.” Omer Malaz, President and Owner of Numarine stated: “Along with a well-established Partner like Bradford Marine, Numarine USA is now perfectly poised to cater to the demanding North American Clientele from the moment of the contract signature to the delivery and subsequent after-sales assistance. We expect great things from the partnership with Bradford!”
Inside Princess is a new engaging suite of short films that lifts the lid on the craftsmanship, skill and passion that goes into each and every yacht produced. Launched 31st July exclusively to the Princess fan-base via social media over a 6 week period, viewers can take a closer look at some of the incredible crafts that go into producing some of the most exquisite yachts in the world, from carpentry to metal work, loom production to infusion moulding. Princess Yachts invite viewers to immerse themselves in a world of unparalleled craftsmanship and meet the people that give brilliance to each and every component.
Riviera Dealer Awards
Riviera Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury motor yacht builder – has formally recognised its dedicated R Marine network of dealers for their outstanding commitment to excellence in sales and service. R Marine exclusively representing the Riviera and Belize brands throughout Australia and New Zealand is the Asia Pacific’s most experienced luxury motor yacht dealer network and strives relentlessly to assist Riviera’s growing family of owners to enjoy ‘the ultimate boating experience’. In announcing the winners of the 2016 Riviera Australian and New Zealand Dealer Awards, chairman and owner Rodney Longhurst said Riviera is totally focused on the pursuit of excellence. “Our commitment extends far beyond building luxurious motor yachts that are acknowledged as being amongst the best in the world – it filters all the way through to providing the outstanding owner care that makes owning a Riviera such a rewarding and pleasurable experience. “The loyalty of our highly valued owners in Australia and New Zealand confirms there’s nothing quite like owning a Riviera and this directly reflects the huge commitment of our R Marine dealer network of marine professionals.
Riviera Owners Experience Passage from Gold Coast to Paradise
There are myriad reasons that Australia’s wonderful Whitsundays region holds such a special place in the hearts of so many people right around the world. Beautiful white sandy beaches, stunning mountain scenery, lush sub-tropical rainforests, island escapes, world-class accommodation and many-hatted restaurants can be enjoyed year-round by almost everyone who visits. For members of the Riviera Family of owners, the appeal extends even further. For instance, there’s the freedom to enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters, calm cruising conditions and secluded anchorages of the iconic Great Barrier Reef in the premium luxury of your own world-class motor yacht. You can explore the myriad, kaleidoscopic diving destinations and bountiful, teeming fishing grounds almost at will. Of course, the exhilaration and fun of cruising there in company of fellow Riviera Family members is a major part of the overall experience. Over two fun-filled weeks, the R Marine Crawley Whitsundays Experience saw 10 yachts travelling in convoy for the 630-natuical mile journey taking in such iconic places as Wide Bay Bar, Kingfisher Resort, Lady Musgrave Island, Lady Percy Island and Hamilton Island, name but a few. R Marine Crawley dealer principal Ben Crawley said this year’s Whitsundays Experience saw some participants undertaking the extended passage for the first time. John McDonald, who with wife Jill has owned a 51 Riviera Enclosed Flybridge for about five years, said the Whitsundays Experience was the farthest north he had cruised. Greg Rekers, who owns his Riviera 47 Open Flybridge Rastus with wife Vicki, said being able to enjoy blue-water cruising and inspiring experiences was definitely a highlight. Andy Smith, who has owned his third Riviera, the 51 Enclosed Flybridge Reel Dynamic, for four months, said he and wife Kristen enjoyed their first Experience journey immensely. Which brings us to the tender fishing competition. Ben Crawley thanked all those who took part in the 2016 Whitsundays Experience, adding that $7500 had been raised to support SANDS, a charity that works with families that have experienced the loss of little one. With many Riviera owners staying north for the winter, R Marine Crawley has some more Experience events planned.
Sunseeker to Launch Exciting Merchandise Collection
Sunseeker International is delighted to announce that it will be launching a brand new exclusive range of merchandise, named the ‘Sunseeker Collection’ at the Southampton Boat Show. Featuring a stunning selection of clothing, leather goods and accessories, the new Sunseeker Collection will be unveiled on the Sunseeker stand during the Southampton Boat Show, from 16th to 25th September. This unique 15-line collection from Sunseeker includes a selection of high performance Henri Lloyd jackets, caps and polo shirts, alongside beautifully crafted Italian leather wallets, briefcases, document bags and weekender holdalls and other accessories all featuring the iconic Sunseeker branding. Synonymous with luxury, performance and style, the new Sunseeker Collection is a valuable addition to the Sunseeker brand.
Sunseeker Hosts Spectacular Ultimate Party
Sunseeker International was delighted to welcome guests from across the Sunseeker family to its exclusive Ultimate2016 summer party at the breathtaking La Fortaleza, Mallorca. This iconic fort, constructed in 1622 as a defence against pirates in Pollença Bay, recently featured in the critically acclaimed BBC Series, ‘The Night Manager’ and was an ideal location for what proved to be an exceptional evening of entertainment. The fort lies at the heart of La Fortaleza’s magnificent 232-acre estate, which features an intricate network of delightful terraced gardens, water features and pools. A stunning range of 24 Sunseeker yachts anchored in the bay provided a welcome backdrop, and as the sun set over the beautiful island of Mallorca, guests enjoyed delicious Chase™ cocktails, followed by a mouth-watering banquet created by Michelin-starred chef, Marc Fosh. This exclusive Sunseeker Ultimate2016 party, part of Sunseeker’s #SunseekerSummer campaign, was kindly sponsored by Wanda Group, with support from further elite brands. Three unique and customised cocktails were created especially for the occasion by Chase Distillery, whilst Jaguar Landrover displayed its new Jaguar F Pace and Range Rover convertible Evoque. Entertainment was provided earlier in the day in the bay for owners and guests by Seabob. Transport from owners’ yachts was provided by Williams Jet Tenders, whilst Airbus had an H135 on hand for guests to inspect. A silent auction of fantastic gifts kindly donated raised in excess of £44,000 for Macmillan, one of Sunseeker’s principle charities. All funds raised will go towards supporting those affected by cancer in Dorset. Sean Robertson, Sales Director at Sunseeker International, said: "We were delighted to host this exclusive summer party and welcome so many owners and guests from across the Sunseeker family. The feedback has been amazing; with many guests saying it was the best event of its kind that they have ever attended. La Fortazela was a stunning location and thanks to our many sponsors including Wanda Group, we put on a truly unforgettable experience for our owners and customers. We are already planning something even more incredible for 2017!”
Viking at 47th White Marlin Invitational
Viking 62s were on fire at the Beach Haven White Marlin Invitational. The Viking 62 Business sat at the top of the leaderboard for Blue Marlin Releases. Tra Sea Ann, another 62, claimed Second Place in the White Marlin Release category and Second Place Overall Releases. The Viking 62 was Second Place Blue Marlin Releases on time, Third Place White Marlin and took the heaviest mahi at 46 pounds, just one pound shy of the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club record. Bucking the 62 trend was the Viking 58 Alyson Roseclaiming the third heaviest tuna.
Viking at 15th Annual Tri-State Canyon Shootout
Two years ago Frank Mazza took delivery of his new Viking 55 Tami Ann and headed out to the Tri-State Canyon Shootout. The boat went out with guns blazing and claimed Top Tuna with a 278.5 pound bigeye. Fast forward to summer 2016. Frank recently left the Viking factory with his new Viking 62 Tami Ann and headed back to the Canyon Shootout. "Sea conditions were horrible," said Frank, "but we were comfortable with our Seakeeper working better than we expected." When the dust settled, Frank thumped a big yellowfin on the dock weighing in at 72.5 pounds to take the top spot on the yellowfin leaderboard as well as Third Place Overall. Do we sense a trend here? Congratulations are also in order for Nick Mastroianni and his crew on the Viking 80 China Time. Angler Nick Mastroianni, III, boated a 27.5 pound mahi mahi to take second place in that category.
Viking at 43rd White Marlin Annual Open
Josh Sharp, fishing on Rick Levinson's Viking 60 SeaFlame was the spoiler on the last day of the White Marlin Open. Josh hauled a 39 pound dolphin to the scales knocking out the competition and putting him in the top spot on the leaderboard. In addition to Top Dolphin, SeaFlame also released a white marlin, blue marlin and spearfish. Other notable placings amongst a field of 329 boats were Dave Anderson's Viking 70 Krazy Salt's in 2nd place for Top Boat and Top Release Boat with 25 white marlin releases while the Viking 52 Miss Annietook 5th place Top Boat and Release Boat and angler Mark Donahue claimed 7th Place Angler with nine releases. Intents, a Viking 62 took 6th Top Boat and Top Release Boat, Viking 62 Tra Sea Ann was 10th place Top Release Boat and angler Rob Manetta picked up 4th Place Angler with 10 white releases. The Viking 70 Makara claimed 9th place Top Boat and Carmine Caruso on his Viking 70 Pipe Dreamer was 5th Place Angler with nine whites.
Captain Brian Komer led his Viking 62 team to Top Release Boat at the Ocean City Marlin and Tuna Club's Overnight Billfish Tournament. During the overnighter the crew released eight white marlin to not only claim the top release title but also Second Place Boat overall. Rounding out the Release Division in Second Place was the Viking 46 Captain Chazz with five whites and a blue while Third Place was awarded to the Viking 50 Anthracite with four whites and a blue plus a 37.5 pound dolphin put them on the top of that category. Captain Chazz also picked up Third Place Overall and Kirky Dolaway was Top Junior Angler. Polarizer, a Viking 55, boated a 105 pound sword for Third Place Swordfish.
Viking at eleventh Annual Texas Legend
After being postponed a week due to bad weather, the bite couldn't have been hotter. With so many grand slams and double headers, the radio had a hard time keeping track of the leaders. When the smoke cleared, the Viking 61 Got'M On was the tournament champion releasing two blue marlin and six sailfish, all by lady angler Emily Scott. The Viking 68 High Cotton weighed in a 112 pounder to win Largest Tuna.
Viking at 41st Annual New Orleans Big Game Fishing Club
The Viking 52 Sport Tower Snafu, owned by Jacque Kuchta and David Branton fished the New Orleans Big Game Fishing Club's Ladies Invitational in high fashion. Pretty in pink, Julie Kuchta brought a 137.1 pound tuna to the scale to take Third Place in that division.