Canados Nearly Sinks in Castellammare di Stabia

A 26 meter Canados super yacht hit a reef outside Castellammare di Stabia, to the South of the Gulf of Naples on the early afternoon of 30th May.  No one was injured in the accident, the Canados super yacht was lucky to have find assistance and was later towed to a shipyard for repairs.  The damage is reported to be of minimum average entity, though the 2021 season might have to be called off for the super yacht.  The towage operation involved a big barge with crane and a tug boat on the same day, and was completed on late evening.   

The Canados in this accident is an 86 model, a success story for the Cantieri Navali di Ostia, selling in 46 units in a production run of thirteen years.  The Canados 86 was born from the 82S with the first unit of this sold to famous Formula One drive Giancarlo Fisichella in 2002.  A smaller offshoot 80 model using the same shortened hull was also made. The Canados 86 was a semi custom 26 meter motor yacht with a four double cabins layout, and two crew cabins. Possibly calling it semi-custom is a bit short as viewing of these super yachts have always showed one to be different to the other. Power was from Cat, Man, or MTU engines from 1400 to 1800hp with speeds reaching 33 knots with the larger engine option.

Monthly News - May 2021

-pic of the month- Wajer Supplier to Red Bull Racing Team

Benetti Giga Yacht for Monaco Grand Prix

The largest hybrid yacht in existence, Benetti’s Luminosity has touched down in Monaco, where she will stay the weekend for the F1 Gran Prix until Tuesday. The 107.6-meter and 5,844 GT giga yacht is well matched with the Gran Prix, both testaments to the achievement of cutting-edge propulsion and material technology.  Many F1 enthusiasts choose to be part to the Circus onboard of a yacht – but for this purpose, Luminosity is an exceptional choice. With a 3MWh battery pack onboard, all the main systems can run throughout the event (up to 12 hours) without the need to switch on the generators. Peace, quiet and comfort are realized onboard Luminosity, with plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air as well. Should it be necessary to leave the event early, the giga yacht can even sneak away without disturbing her neighbors, navigating in full electric mode with a range of more than ten nautical miles. Added bonuses of this futuristic functionality include a much faster startup time and exclusive access to SECA environmentally protected areas, which are known for undisturbed natural beauty.

Cigarette Sells to Lionheart Capital and John H. Ruiz

Cigarette Racing Team, synonymous with high-powered luxury performance powerboats, has new ownership with big plans for growth of the company and the future of boat racing in across the globe. Lionheart Capital, led by Founder and CEO, Ophir Sternberg, has partnered with billionaire entrepreneur, John H. Ruiz, to purchase the iconic American brand from longtime owner of two decades, Skip Braver.  "After 20 years of building the Cigarette product line and brand, I look forward to seeing Ophir and John's vision for the company become a reality. Lionheart Capital and John H. Ruiz share my commitment to quality and performance, as well as my passion for Cigarette's brand, and I'm confident in their ability to take the company to even greater heights based on their own successful ventures, resources and business knowledge," said Skip Braver, former owner of the Cigarette Racing Team.  Cigarette Racing Team specializes in custom-made, hand-crafted, high-performance powerboats. Its clientele has the most discerning taste for luxury and performance. Cigarette's reputation as the market's premier powerboat builder has roots deep in offshore racing's history where performance made its early run for glory. From its inception in 1969, the company grew in size and reputation, based on the hard-racing, fast-lane living of its founder, Don Aronow.  "I am thrilled about our acquisition of Cigarette Racing and believe that Cigarette Racing's brand is daring, defiant and pushes barriers. With that, my partner John H. Ruiz and I, look forward to taking the company into its next chapter where we build upon the legacy of the brand and create significant value in the future through powerful partnerships and unique collaborations, production amplification and increased distribution channels," said Ophir Sternberg, co-owner of Cigarette Racing.  Since its inception, the Cigarette brand has grown in sophistication, becoming a product excellence company which focuses on impeccable engineering and beautiful design. Cigarette now builds the finest powerboats for the most loyal and discriminating performance boaters, using only the best in materials, technology and workmanship. "Ophir and I both are excited about Cigarette Racing and what we can contribute to the company," said John H. Ruiz, co-owner of Cigarette Racing. Ruiz, who brings expertise in building hugely successful technology platforms, is excited about incorporating the most cutting-edge technological advancements, innovations and safety features to take performance to the next level. "I have been an avid fan for decades. I personally own numerous Cigarette hand-crafted powerboats and believe that the brand is on the verge of a new wave of acceleration. Cigarette Racing is such an iconic American name in the world of boating, that it is truly an honor to be a part of the continuation of its legacy that's been going strong for over 50 years, and look forward to taking it into unchartered waters." Always on the cusp of redefining luxury, Cigarette recently collaborated with Italian Architect and Designer Giorgio Cassetta, the 2019 World Superyacht Award winner, to create a boat of unconventional strength and style. That know-how and innate elegance with a passion for new challenges, led Poltrona Frau to array the interiors of the powerful Tirranna 59'.  Cigarette as a lifestyle is visible on waterways around the world, but it started and continues to be headquartered in Miami, Florida. Cigarette Racing powerboats range from $600K to $3.5M.

Hatteras Acquired by White River Marine Group

White River Marine Group announced a significant expansion of its saltwater manufacturing footprint with the acquisition of Hatteras Inc., in New Bern, North Carolina.  The brand will become part of the White River Marine Group. The company’s family of brands includes Tracker, Mako, Ranger, Triton, Tahoe, Nitro and others.  The addition will shift the focus of the company’s saltwater manufacturing from the Midwest to the Atlantic seashore, closer to the saltwater market and a thriving community of craftsmen and women. Importantly, the purchase represents an investment in New Bern, North Carolina’s long history of boat building and the jobs it sustains.  “We are inspired by the many similarities between the pride and passion of the master boat builders from our home in the Ozarks and the legendary boat builders of North Carolina and the New Bern area in particular,” stated a company promotional piece. “Both share the same genuine commitment to American craftsmanship, with scores of family members working together and generations of highly experienced boat builders taking pride in what they do. We’re committed to support Hatteras in staying true to its roots as a legendary saltwater brand built by a passion for fishing while expanding our operations to better serve all those who love the sea.”  

Heesen Wants You to Pick a Colour

Heesen is excited to invite you to be part of our new Heesen Project SkyFall Contest that seeks opinion on which paint scheme best suits the 60m superyacht and her matching tender. We would like to extend this invitation to you to take part online and let the owner hear your thoughts on which out of the five colour options you prefer.  When complete in 2023, 60-metre SkyFall – a lightweight aluminium FDHF – will be Heesen’s most powerful yacht to date. Powered by four MTU 20V4000 engines driving four Kongsberg S90 water jets, she will max out at 37 knots. SkyFall epitomises why Heesen is world-renowned for being the best place to build 55-60 metre plus full-aluminium yachts.  Her sporty exterior is designed by Omega Architects. Her matching Vanquish tender is designed by Guido de Groot. Oozing style and sophistication, she is geared around sports fishing with a fully-fledged fishing cave, including stowage for 40 rods.  And now, she needs a colour scheme to suit!  The exterior colour scheme is a defining element of a yacht’s identity. It speaks to the overall design and ensures that the yacht makes a real impact on water. Five colour options have been selected to choose from.

Riviera Announce Extended Warranty Program

The dedication to excellence by Australia’s largest and most awarded luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, has been further elevated by the company’s industry-leading support for motor yacht owners with the announcement of a new and comprehensive extended warranty program. Riviera is now providing even greater peace of mind by increasing the Structural Limited Warranty on Riviera motor yachts by an additional two years to seven years. The company has also doubled its Express Limited Warranty, which covers all non-structural components, from one to two years.  Riviera’s new seven-year Structural Limited Warranty provides the ultimate assurance for motor yacht owners in the quality of the hull, deck, flybridge and hardtop of all Riviera motor yachts which are engineered and crafted for superior blue-water performance.  The warranty covers seven years or up to 2,800 hours of boating, whichever comes first, from the moment an owner takes delivery of their new motor yacht from their Riviera dealer representative.  The extended warranty program affirms Riviera’s dedication to quality across the company’s 22-model range from 39 feet to 72 feet in the Sports Motor Yacht, Sport Yacht, SUV, Flybridge and Belize collections.  Riviera owners enjoy superior sales and service support from a global network comprising 60 dedicated Riviera representatives in Australia, New Zealand, the Americas, Europe and Asia.  The extended warranty support is further strengthened by the five-year limited warranty on Volvo Penta and MAN-powered yachts being standard on all Riviera models. This positions Riviera’s extended warranty program among the most comprehensive in the world for luxury motor yachts.  The five-year limited warranty on Riviera’s Volvo Penta-powered yachts covers all Volvo Penta controls, displays, steering, propellors, IPS drives and engines. This warranty covers five years or up to 1,000 hours on D6 engines and 2,000 hours on D8, D11 and D13 models. All Volvo Penta-powered yachts equipped with Garmin electronics also have five-year protection for the Glass Cockpit System.  Through Volvo Penta’s unique Yacht Series Support service, Riviera owners also have access to Volvo Penta’s global dealer network in 130 countries.  Riviera motor yachts powered by MAN engines enjoy a five-year or up to 2,500 hours, whichever comes first, limited mechanical warranty. The MAN Gold Standard Premium covers all MAN-branded engines.  This extensive cover is further supported by the five-year limited warranty on durable Sunbrella materials used for upholstery and awnings in Riviera motor yachts.  “The Riviera motor yachts of today are the best we have ever created, offering unparalleled peace of mind for our motor yacht owners,” said Riviera owner Rodney Longhurst.  “Our owner assurance has been enhanced even further with this new warranty program. Around the world, Riviera motor yacht owners truly appreciate the quality craftsmanship and engineering excellence that is implicit in every luxury motor yacht we build.  “With the support of our global network of dealer representatives and through the assurance from the world’s leading brands and technology, our extended warranty program is further complementing the ultimate boating experience that Riviera owners enjoy.”

Sabre Stories Kicks Off

Sabre is kicking off a new ongoing series - Sabre Stories! In the inaugural episode, the Captain of the Judy Davis a Sabre 48, talks about cruising around the low country of South Carolina, making memories, and all the ways that boating "soothes the soul."

Sunreef Wins UIM International Award

Sunreef Yachts has won the Union Internationale Motonautique Environmental Award. The shipyard’s in-house engineered solar power system has been voted as the most innovative green motoryacht technology. Established in 1922 and based in Monaco, the UIM is the world governing body for all Powerboating activities. The UIM Environmental Award recognizes outstanding environmental leaders or organizations that have excelled in inspiration, vision, innovation, leadership and initiatives to the benefit of the Environment. The Sunreef Yachts Eco solar power system is the only composite-integrated photovoltaic technology in the marine industry. Engineered by the Sunreef Yachts Eco R&D office, it allows to integrate solar panels with all curved composite structures for an energy efficiency unrivalled in the yachting world.


Sunseeker Famous Five Premiere

Sunseeker is delighted to officially reveal the Sunseeker ‘Famous Five’ in a magnificent, all-new display of the Manhattan 55, Predator 55 EVO™, 65 Sport Yacht, 88 Yacht, and 90 Ocean together for the very first time off the coast of Dorset, England. The five new models dominated the waters as they sailed to Studland Bay in perfect formation against a breath-taking sunrise.  Revealing not one but five new models reflects the extraordinary pace of product development and a feat never before seen in the company’s history. To celebrate their arrival, a special guest and friend of the brand, actor Hugh Bonneville, recently visited the boat builder in Poole to support a very special launch video. The sheer expanse of Sunseeker’s presence, with its legendary shipyard set against the backdrop of the town’s historic quayside made for an ideal filming location.  Hugh commented: “A few years ago, I joined the Sunseeker team at the London Boat Show and quickly came to understand that this company is so much more than a brand - it's a global family. Sunseeker don’t just build boats, they build dreams and I feel very fortunate to join in the celebratory launch of these incredible new models. It's an outstanding achievement of which the iconic British company can be justifiably proud.”  Joined by Sunseeker CEO, Andrea Frabetti, and Douglas Culverwell, Director of Distributor Development, Hugh experienced the Sunseeker Famous Five first-hand by going behind the curtain of this complex operation. As well as touring the shipyards that house these remarkable yachts and meeting with the teams responsible for building them, Hugh relished the exceptional interiors of the 88 Yacht, sat comfortably at the innovative SkyHelm™ of the 65 Sport Yacht, and felt right at home on the all-new X-TEND™ transforming sunbed; just some of the many latest technology innovations on board these class-leading, industry-defining models.  Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International, commented: “It was a great privilege to welcome Hugh back to Poole to help launch all five new models, each imbued with Sunseeker style and innovation. This is the culmination of a great deal of hard work, talent and passion by the entire workforce; the credit rests with each and every one of them. This launch is a truly momentous occasion, and I cannot wait to welcome even more clients to our burgeoning ‘family’ as our range continues to expand.”

Tiara Lands Best Industry Product

The recently launched tiara yachts 48 ls was recognized by boating industry as one of the 50 top products of 2021. The top products program annually selects the marine industry’s most innovated products and services to recently hit the market based on their impact on the industry, innovations and how they advance the product category, or in some cases, create a new segment of its own.  The 48 LS, the largest outboard-powered vessel tiara yachts has ever built, expands upon the legacy of the luxury sport series, combining the outdoor amenities of a day boat with the onboard accommodations of a weekend cruiser.  Exclusively built and engineered for the Mercury Verado v12 600hp engines, another 2021 top product award winner and highest-horsepower outboards in production today, the 48 LS can reach a top speed of 60 mph. the triple v12s are combined with the tiara yachts integrated electronics package, including Garmin marine navigation, for unprecedented control and performance.

Viking Wins Marlin Madness

Congratulations to the Viking 55 Walk West on their win in Marlin magazine’s Marlin Madness. It’s been a long road with 64 seeded battlewagons fighting it out in four regional divisions but in the end, it was a Viking that “walked away” victorious. Owned by Riley Rhodes, the Viking earned their spot in the mix for their 2020 Texas Legends Billfish Tournament win. With captain Raleigh Morrison at the wheel, Justin Waight landed a record-breaking 737-pound blue marlin – the largest to ever be weighed in Port Aransas. “It was epic and euphoric,” Riley said. “We knew it was a big fish, but we didn’t know it was that big.” Great job to all the teams that competed and thanks to all of you for voting Viking to the top spot!

Viking at Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic

Viking went one, two and three at the recent Louisiana Gulf Coast Billfish Classic. The Viking 61 Devotion, above, released four blue marlin to win the Top Release Boat division. Captain Jason Hallmark put angler Brandon Rayborn on a pair of blues, and Matthew Parson and Josh Tice each added a fish to the tally. C-Student, a Viking 66, took 2nd Place Release Boat on time with three blues. The Viking 62 Contrapption was right behind them in 3rd Place with a trio of blue marlin. Scott Cooper, fishing on the Viking 80 CE, weighed the 2nd Place Tuna with a 127.8-pound yellowfin.

Viking Dominates The ShootOut

Talk about domination! In Skip Smith’s The Shootout – Production vs Custom, anglers on Bob Genord’s Viking 80 Miss Victoria released five blue marlin, seven whites and a sailfish to claim Top Billfish Release Boat. Colton Resor released eight of those fish for the Top Angler honor. Gioncarlo Ratti, fishing on Ricardo Cilloniz’s Viking 72 Anakalea, weighed the 2nd Largest Blue Marlin. The Heaviest Mahi went to Viking 62 Reel Life angler Mike Espinosa with a 34.2-pound fish. The Abaco-based invitational tournament saw 142 billfish releases in three days of fishing.

Viking Vaccine Program

Viking is proud to have hosted its first COVID-19 vaccine clinic with over 200 employees receiving their first dose of the Pfizer inoculation. In conjunction with AtlantiCare, Viking’s Health Services turned our multi-purpose room into a finely tuned injection distribution site. A second clinic is planned in two weeks with additional dates to be scheduled at both the New Gretna and Mullica facilities. Viking has worked hard to slow the spread of COVID-19 and now we're stepping up our efforts to do our part to help end the pandemic.  “In my 32 years at Viking, our vaccine rollout to our boatbuilders through our Health Services department and AtlantiCare is the most rewarding and significant program we’ve accomplished. Our employees are the most important asset of our company and we must do everything in our power to make sure they are healthy,” said Viking’s Executive Vice President Drew Davala.

Wajer Supplier to Red Bull Racing Team

Wajer is proud to announce that for the Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday May 23, Red Bull Racing has once again chosen Wajer as its Official Supplier. Several Red Bull Racing Wajer yachts will be ready to transport the team from A to B in the Harbour of Monaco during the race weekend. The Wajer Care team is in ‘pit crew’ shape to get your Wajer ready for summer!

Wajer Sound of the 77

Attention: all DJs and producers among us. Since the Wajer 77 is the quietest boat in its class, it's time to make some noise! To celebrate this, Wajer is pursuing ‘The Sound of The 77’ and giving you the chance to remix ‘Magico’ by Armin van Buuren and Giuseppe Ottaviani, and win a trip to the South of France!

Wajer New Director Global Care

Wajer would like to introduce you to the new Director Global Care, Reinier van Herel. With over 23 years of national and international experience for Damen Shipyards, he is the right person to further expand and internationalize the service concept Wajer Care.  From 1997 Reinier fulfilled various roles within Damen Shipyards, from Regional Director Africa to Service and Sales Director in Southern Europe. In recent years he has been active as Head of Business Innovation & Corporate Venturing.

Wally Supports Maxi Racing in Portofino

All eyes in the sailing world turned to the Italian Riviera last week, where the Regate di Primavera – Splendido Mare Cup marked the explosive return of Maxi racing to the Med. Held in the sheltered waters of the Gulf of Tigullio from 5 to 9 May, the invitation-only event gathered some of the world’s most prestigious sailing yachts.  And none more so than the towering elegance of the Wally fleet, which was represented in style at this year’s event. Kauris II (24.31m) and Ryokan 2 (24m winner of the coveted Compasso d’Oro International design award) showcased the yard’s enduring aesthetic appeal and evergreen design, where clean lines, perfect proportions and performance all combine to create emotions that only Wallys can.  «Now more than ever, people are appreciating the value of owning a yacht. We fully expect to see an exciting rebound in regattas as those who love to sail return to the water,» says Wally Managing Director Stefano de Vivo. «For us as a brand, it is key to support regattas such as the Regate di Primavera - Splendido Mare Cup and foster growth for the future. Having delivered a new 145-footer at the height of the pandemic and recently signed a contract to build a stunning 101-footer for a loyal client, I am delighted to say that the Wally family keeps getting bigger.» «Around the cans off Portofino, variable conditions prevailed. Seas ran quite high at times, while the wind went from flat calm to gusty and back again. It made for some classic racing and some memorable moments, » says Wally Founder and Wally Class President Luca Bassani. «The two Wallys were never far off the pace, and provided an unforgettable spectacle finishing close in under the lighthouse at Portofino. After a year without Maxi yacht racing, owners are understandably enthusiastic to relaunch the Med regatta circuit. Wally is delighted to be supporting Wally owners and Wally Class members this summer to participate in some of the world’s most prestigious events.»  VIP guests and visitors enjoyed another treat courtesy of Wally at this year’s event. The yard’s hugely successful Wallytender series were on hand to transport VIPs in ultimate style. Both the 43wallytender and 48wallytender served as courtesy vessels, standing out with their avant-garde design, immaculate handling and uncompromising luxury. It set the tone for a week where elegance on the water was only matched by the warmth of the Corinthian spirit on shore. Now known as the Regate di Primavera - Splendido Mare Cup, the event has been running almost non-stop since 1980 against the backdrop of the town known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”. Last year naturally saw a hiatus due to the pandemic, but Wally owners have been eager to restart racing and are supporting this year’s maxi events.  Wally is also doing its bit to bring these magnificent yachts back to the race course with the return of the exclusive Wally Class. Counting among its number some of the most iconic sailing yachts of the last four decades, the Wally Class fleet runs from 24 to over 50 meters in length and includes some breathtaking recent deliveries that define the state of the art in performance, interior fit out and sheer flair.  Wally Class events will unfurl majestically over the course of the next six months. Following the Regate di Primavera - Splendido Mare Cup in Portofino, Wally owners can look forward to the Loro Piana Super Yacht Regatta in Porto Cervo (1-5 June); the Giraglia Rolex Cup (16-19 June); the Superyacht Cup in Palma de Mallorca (23-26 June); the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Porto Cervo (5-11 September); and the unmissable Voiles de St Tropez to close the season from 4-9 October.

Five Yachts Destroyed at Marina Kastela Fire in Croatia

A huge fire broke out in Marina Kastela, to the North West of Split, in Croatia on Saturday 29th May 2021 around 2140 hours.  The fire broke out apparently on a 22 meter motor yacht, and then went on to the other nearby and opposite yachts.  The result is that five boats have been totalled, and eighteen have been damaged.  Fire fighters from Kastela, Split, and Solin spent up to the following morning controlling and reducing the fire.  Only one person had minor injuries which considering the time of the accident and the period in the season it could have been much worse.

The yachts involved in the accident seems to be a Fipa Maiora 24S, Sunseeker 72 Predator, and a Ferretti 760.  We still do not know the full dynamics of the accident but some Croatia news are reporting it all started from a galley fire.

Project: Cantiere delle Marche Flexplorer 142

Cantiere delle Marche is glad to announce the sale of another yacht of the Flexplorer line: a Flexplorer 142 has been sold to a young and enthusiast German owner, a keen sailor, who has previously owned several sailing and motor yachts. The Hydro Tec bold exterior design will be completed with refined interiors by Francesco Paszkowski and Margherita Casprini. The owner’s wishes and lifestyle match with Paszkowski’s approach and impeccable poise and the yacht will feature top-end characteristics in terms of functionality and style. As the Flexplorer 130 Aurelia, the 142 features an asymmetrical layout on the main deck. The asymmetry consists in a full beam configuration to starboard which adds square metres to the salon while leaving a useful passageway to port side. For the records, the asymmetrical layout is not something invented in these last years: it actually made its first appearance on Camaleon B a 43m custom yacht designed by Paolo Caliari and his ‘pupil’ Sergio Cutolo in 2002, followed by 53m Leo Fun and Vinydrea. The owner and his family have great plans to fully enjoy their new yacht: they will be firstly exploring many destinations around the Med, after which eventually they will be heading to the Northern latitudes to cross the Northwest Passage. The Passage has been a byword for mystery and endeavour but in recent decades the ice cover retreated and during just a few weeks in Summer it became possible to pass through. The crossing, however, still bears the risk to run into ice floes and a very robust hull is highly recommended. This is why the Flexplorer 142 hull will feature, among other technical upgrades an ice-belt of 22mm steel plates 400 mm above and below the waterline.  Flexplorer 142 will also feature other special features from the A-frame crane that when not used fits flush in the deck and is unseen,  collapsible bulwarks that extend to the further reach of the cockpit, two spaces for two eight meter special tenders on the aft deck, and Infinity pool on the transom.  Cantiere delle Marche Flexplorer 142 will feature six guest cabins, including two owner stateroom one on the forward part of the main deck, and another on the upper deck.  Flexplorer 142 is to be powered by twin MTU 1200hp which give her a top speed up to fourteen knots and a range up to five thousand nautical miles.

www.cantieredellemarche.it

Beneteau Sport Cruiser Collides into Trawler

A Beneteau sport cruiser of thirteen meters in length collided into a trawler in Maruggio to the South East of the coast of Taranto, Italy on the morning of Saturday 29th May.  No one was hurt in the accident with the trawler vessel showing some damage to its stern port side area.  The local coast guard was called, but only to fill the claims for the damage as the sport cruiser managed to free itself by engaging astern.  In the initial declaration the sport cruiser helmsman declared of not seeing the fifteen meter trawler vessel hence he collided into it.  With the damage shown the sport cruiser was going at medium displacement speeds.

The Beneteau sport cruiser in the accident is a Monte Carlo 42 model.  Designed by Andreanni the Monte Carlo 42 was released in 2009 offering an interior sleeping six in two large cabins, and a convertible dinette.  The Monte Carlo 42 was powered by twin Volvo 370hp engines with stern drive propulsion, and was replaced by the near identical Flyer 44 Gran Turismo in 2011. 

Man Killed in Boat Collision Near Portisco, Sardinia

On Saturday 29th May late morning time at 1130 hours a Tiara sportfish cruiser of twelve meters in length collided on a sailing yacht, killing the 69 year old skipper and owner of the sail craft, and leaving in shock his wife.  In the impact the 69 year old Alberto was hit and later thrown in the water and cut by the propellers.  The accident happened in a location between Portisco and Porto Cervo, half a mile away from the coast, in the famous and busy in this time of the year Esmerald coast.  Nothing happened to the four crew members of the sportfish cruiser, who where later interrogated by the Olbia police.

The sportfish cruiser in the accident is a Tiara 3600 Open produced between 2004 and 09, and powered by twin Cummins 380hp with line shaft propulsion topping out a 32 knots top speed.  The Tiara 3600 Open offered an open plan cabin layout with a forward double queen berth, C-shaped dinette to starboard, and opposite galley.  A shower head was located on entry to the cabin deck to port side.  From 2010 onwards the 3600 while using the same hull was hugely modified on the upper structure with a sleeker design, and also came available with Volvo 370hp and IPS pod propulsion offer.

Princess Flybridge Cruiser Aground in River

A twelve meter Princess flybridge motor cruiser with three persons onboard ran aground on the 28th May 2021 in the Caloosahatchee River, Florida, USA.  Assistance was immediately provided by TowBoatUS Lake Okeechobee who upon arrival noticed the three persons suffering injuries.  The TowBoatUS captain took the passengers immediately to a nearby marina for medical assistance.  Salvage operation started the same day and took 24 hours to complete.  Cause of the accident for this Princess flybridge cruiser are unknown.

The Princess 420 was launched in the fall of 94 and as all new models onward from the eighties is a design of Bernard Olesinski.  The Princess 420 offered a two cabins two heads layout and was powered by twin Volvo 370hp or Cat 355hp engines with line shaft propulsion.  The model was produced till 97 after which in that year it was renamed as 430 with the change being that of an extended bathing platform, and produced like this for another year.  Following the 440 launched in 1993 and the 53 earlier in the same year, the 420 was Princess third model into a more Mediterranean Italian style of flybridge cruiser; see extended more spacious flybridge, windows that wrap around into the coach roof, and larger aft-deck for outside entertainment.

New Launch: Lurssen 55 meters Project 13800

Lürssen is proud to announce the successful launching of project 13800 on April 29, 2021. Her delivery is planned for summer 2021, exactly three years after the owner signed the contract with Lürssen, convinced that no other shipyard could meet his strong demands for a truly bespoke 55-metre yacht with an unusual but for him perfectly fitted layout. The designer, Bannenberg and Rowell, gave Project 13800 her very distinctive lines. A fearless use of colours and textures as well as museum quality interior furniture pieces underline the approach of tremendous attention to detail, not only in the interior spaces but also in the technical areas. The experienced owners had a clear idea of what their needs for their lifestyle are. A customized engineered yacht at 55 metres.  Lürssen is known for manufacturing the largest yachts in the world but is also actively targeting projects in the 55 to 75 metre range. Project 13800 is a first step in re-establishing the brand as a serious proposition for yachts in that size bracket as well.

Technical Data:

LOA - 55.75 m (182.9ft)

Beam - 10.2 m

Draft - 

Displacement - 800 gross tonnage

Hull Shape - displacement

Construction - steel hull aluminium super structure

Project - Bannenberg and Rowell exterior and interior

Certification - Lloyds

www.lurssen.com

Two Abandoned Yachts Catch Fire in Miami

Two abandoned yachts, a sportfish yacht of about fifty feet and a seventy foot sport yacht went ablaze at a marina located in Little Havana between Northwest 22nd Avenue and 14th Street, Miami river at 02:30 hours of the morning of Thursday 27 May.  City of Miami Fire Rescue responded to the fire with seventeen units, fighting the blaze from both the bridge and on the water with a fire-boat, what took about an hour to extinguish.  Both yachts where reported as being unattended. At some point the fire was reported as rising to about a height of over twenty meters.  The two abandoned yachts are reported to be of the same ownership, and had been devoid of fuel and most mechanical items as were scheduled to be scrapped.  The marina where the yachts are located is also reported to close down in about a months time, with an investigation for the cause of the fire being made. 

The yachts in this fire are both timeless classics.  The seventy foot sport yacht is the Paolo Caliari designed Arno Leopard Sport 21.50 produced from 1989 to 96 in about forty units.  The sportfish yacht looks to be the Napier designed never getting old Bertram 54, as produced from 1981 to 2002 selling 177 units in two versions updated in 1996.

Van Dutch Sport Yacht Beached in Melito Porto Salvo

A sixteen meter VanDutch sport yacht ended beached in Melito, Porto Salvo on the South of the Calabria region in Italy, on the early afternoon of 26th May. In the accident the two British nationals onboard, a captain and a crew member ended in hospital with the captain having mild injuries to his back.  The VanDutch was being delivered to Greece, when the boat had some faults in its control systems.  Thankfully this accident happened in what is still off season as the consequences to a crowded beach could have been much worse. 

The boat in the accident is a VanDutch 55, the current flagship of the Dutch company. Designed as all VanDutch by Frank Mulder, the 55 is a modern open sport yacht with hints to traditionalism, see flush deck and straight as the horizon shear line.  The Van Dutch offers standard accommodation plan for a two cabins lower deck layout, with a saloon and galley in between, and is powered by twin Volvo 900hp with line shaft propulsion, which make her reach speeds up to 37 knots. 

Project: Cheoy Lee CLB65

Cheoy Lee present the project of the CLB65, a twenty meter motor yacht designed inhouse with naval architecture by Howard Apollonio, and interior design by Carmen.  Carmen will be on her second Cheoy Lee having designed the CLB72. The CLB65 will feature a resin-infused composite hull, with strategic use of carbon fibre, in order to reduce weight and add stiffness.  The CLB65 presents itself with modern conservative design complemented by interiors who celebrate comfort in style.  The motor yacht will offer four different lounging areas; foredeck, fly lounge, aft lounge, and beach platform.  Accommodation layout is for three cabins, with a crew cabin aft.  The galley is located astern to port side, which along with the large patio door bring the outside in.  Hull one of the CLB65 is to be launched in fourth quarter 2021, and is to be powered by twin Volvo 800hp with IPS1050 pod drives, with electric fin stabilisers and a light and airy interior design scheme.  This motor yacht will feature RINA Hull Certification and can be CE certified upon request.

www.clyachts.com

New Model: Riviera 645 SUV

Riviera officially launched its innovative new 645 SUV on the opening of the 2021 Sanctuary Cove boat show.  The 645 SUV is the largest model in Riviera's SUV collection, combining the high-level blue-water pedigree of the lauded Sports Motor Yachts with the single-level living attributes so much loved by Sport Yacht owners.  The 645 is available in two editions; the Classic and the Newport. The Classic features elegant interior furnishings, a versatile foredeck entertaining space and four-stateroom accommodation. The Newport includes a distinctive Tungsten silver hardtop, a spacious foredeck sun-pad, avant-garde saloon features and three-cabin accommodation with a lower-deck lounge space.  Riviera pioneered the SUV concept in 2012 and has since continually refined this design, crafting more than 170 yachts ranging from 39 to now 64 feet.  The 645 becomes the flagship of the six-model SUV collection. She offers extensive accommodation, premium comfort and luxury and longer-range offshore cruising while enhancing the superb indoor-outdoor lifestyle features that make the SUV models so practical and popular.  The 645 SUV offers the choice of three or four staterooms, three bathrooms and an utility, crew or additional accommodation aft of the master stateroom. In addition, she offers superb alfresco-deck dining, a saloon that includes an aft gourmet galley with island bench, a side saloon door leading to generous walk-around side decks and a foredeck that is a separate, lavish entertainment hub.  Riviera engineers have opted for a choice of twin Man 1300hp or 1550hp diesels that offer exceptional power-to-weight performance. The 1300 engines deliver a cruise speed of 28 knots and 31 knots at wide open throttle. The optional 1550s provide a cruise speed of about 30 knots and wide-open throttle around 34 knots.  The Twin Disc Express Joystick system seamlessly marries hydraulic thrusters with Twin Disc gearboxes. Joysticks are at the helm and in the cockpit.

Technical Data:

LOA - 21.23 (69.8ft)

Hull Length - 19.4 m

Beam - 5.80 m

Draft - 1.62 m with props

Displacement - 39970 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 6500 l

Water Capacity - 900 l

Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, eight berths in four cabins, optional one crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x Man V10 1300hp, V12 1550hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 34 knots max 30 knots cruise Man 1550hp, 31 knots max 28 knots cruise Man 1300hp

Project - 4D Designs

Certification - ISO8666 for dimensions

www.riviera.com.au

Project: Tankoa T580

Tankoa is pleased to announce the sale of the new T580 yacht.  This is the first 58-metre model, a fantastic addition to the fleet of the Italian shipyard. The hull will be built in steel with aluminium superstructures; the exterior design is by Francesco Paszkowski, while the interiors are by Margherita Casprini.  This sale, conducted and completed in collaboration with Giancarlo Mussino, Managing Director of Sinos S.A., who introduced the client and will represent them during construction, once again confirms the ability of the Genoa-based shipyard to develop fully customisable projects.  From the first previews, the Tankoa T580 will be a "World Wide Explorer" with a sporty profile, able to cover long cruises thanks to a range of more than 5 thousand nautical miles. She will also have a helideck at the bow, six cabins in addition to the crew cabins, a large beach club with folding side walls to make the most of "a private island" and a garage capable of accommodating two tenders, including a 9-metre limo tender.  Construction will begin in July and the new Tankoa T580 is scheduled for delivery in April 2024.

www.tankoa.it

New Model: Sunseeker 90 Ocean

Presented as a project in 2019 as 8X, the Sunseeker 90 Ocean is a revolutionary new model part of the famous Poole, British boat builder Yacht line.  This new 90 Ocean is a forward thinking model which goes away from the usual schemes we are used from Sunseeker; the forward upright full bow, and the aft 24 square meters open beach club are different to what has come before her from Poole.  Yet upward to the shear line it is all so distinctive Sunseeker, with the radar arch an always important design feature showing aggressiveness and sportiness.  We have a lesson and statement from the 90 Ocean; forward thinking yes, but forgetting your design distinctiveness never, and why should Sunseeker forget, considering they have one of the most known boating signatures in the World.

Technical Data:

LOA - 27.10 m (88.9ft)

Beam - 7.16 m

Draft - 1.86 m

Displacement - 85000 kg half load

Fuel Capacity - 13000 l

Water Capacity - 1500 l

Accommodation - eight/ ten guests berths in four cabins, 2/4 crew in two cabins

Engines - 2 x Man 1900hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 26 knots max, 12 knots economic cruise

Range - 1800 nm at 12 knots

www.sunseeker.com

PowerYachtBlog Best of the Year 2021

Project: Wajer 77

At the end of April in a live media stream Wajer presented its new 77 project.   Designed by Sinot with naval architecture by Van Oossanen the 77 is to be Wajer's new flagship upgrading its current offer by six meters in length from the 55, which is the Dutch builder current largest offer.  At 23 meter in length the Wajer 77 is a sport yacht concentrated on exterior living and enjoyment of the environment.  Thanks to its exterior design and walk around side decks the 77 offers three dinette areas; fore deck, midships under the hardtop, and aft, and this is followed by two sunbathing areas fore and aft. Interior accommodation is for three double cabins, with a full beam owners midships. a midships crew cabin, and a small dinette and galley in between the cabins to starboard side.  Still on the website Wajer stresses the point saying that the interior layout can be customized.  Tender stowage is for a PWC up to 3.20 meters with additional space for other toys as Seabobs and electrical surfboards also being available.  The Wajer 77 will feature a deep Vee hull with a 21 degrees deadrise, and powered by triple Volvo 1000hp with IPS pod drives will reach speeds up to 37 knots. 

www.wajer.com

New Model: Castagnola Heritage 9.9

There is always magic surrounding a custom project, whether the size is five or fifty meters. The magic comes from the fact that in a custom the boat builder is not bound to commercial serial production, and builds a boat in fitting to the clients request. Castagnola from Lavagna in the South of Genova, Italy has always been a custom builder, and while they are mostly known for Italian style motor and super yachts upwards of twenty meters, with this new Heritage 9.9 they surprised the Nautical World for a size which is very rare associated with custom building, more so in the European continent.  The Heritage 9.9 is a creation born from the will of Giovanni Castagnola grand son Gabriele Maestri, who helped by Nauta design for the exterior and interior, and Francesco Rogantin for naval architecture created this fully custom ten meter sport cruiser.  In the Heritage 9.9, Nauta designed a day sport cruiser idle for that occasional over night stay for a couple, with an interior sleeping two in a central double berth which is served by a separate shower head to port side. Outside is where the living of the Heritage 9.9 is concentrated with two double aft sun-pads, a C-shaped dinette to port side, opposite L-shaped galley, and helm station to starboard.  The Castagnola Heritage 9.9 is powered by twin Yanmar 320hp with stern drive propulsion which allows for top speed up to forty knots.  

Technical Data:

LOA - 10.91 m (35.7ft)

Hull Length - 9.99 m

Beam - 3. 54 m

Draft - 0.54 m excludes drives and props

Displacement - 6.5 t

Fuel Capacity - 500 l

Accommodation - two berths

Engines - 2 x Yanmar 320hp

Propulsion - stern drive

Speed - 40 knots max 34 knots cruse 30 knots economic fast cruise

Range - 160 nm at 30 knots cruise

Construction - wood in tech skin, cold moulding wood structure and exterior in carbon fiber and epoxy resins skin

Project - Francesco Rogantin naval architect, Nauta exterior and interior, Gabriele Maestri construction

Certification - CE B + C

www.castagnolayacht.it

Project: Mazu 92 DS

After winning over an international clientele for its fast planning sports cruisers and yachts built of lightweight carbon composites, Mazu Yachts from Turkey has announced its entry into steel construction with the 92 DS, the first of a new semi-displacement series that will be followed by a 112 DS and 132 DS model. The steel keel of the first semi-custom 92 DS has been laid, but Mazu is drawing on its experience of working in carbon composite for the superstructure to keep the weight down and the centre of gravity low. The yacht will be powered by triple Volvo 800hp with IPS drives as propulsion for a top speed of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 16 knots. This is the first time IPS propulsion has been installed on a steel-hulled yacht, requiring close collaboration with Volvo and Profjord in Sweden for the engineering and naval architecture. The Crossover-style exterior profile by Red Yacht Design features a raised pilothouse positioned forward in order to maximise the interior volumes. The dramatic vertical bow adds visual impact and increases the waterline length. The two-tone hull design introduces a striking new aesthetic. The owner’s suite in Red Yacht Design vision is located in the widebody section of the main deck forward with a bathroom in the bow. The walk-around section of the superstructure houses the main salon illuminated by full-height windows and the galley. There is al fresco dining for a full complement of eight guests and sun loungers on the open aft deck. Stairs on both sides lead down to a very large swim platform with room for stowing a tender and Jet Ski while under way. The bulwarks fold down on either side to increase the platform area. Glass sliding transom doors lead into a relaxing beach club area with bar that can be arranged according to client preference.  The beach club also features interior access from the main salon. Forward are two twin-single guest cabins and a full-beam VIP suite. There are two crew cabins with shared bathroom in the bow. Unusually for the size of yacht, the crew have their own service stairs. There is more lounging space, as well as dining facilities and the exterior helm station shaded by the hardtop on the fly deck.

www.mazuyachts.com

New Model: Fiart 43 Seawalker

 

Fiart where among the first among European boat builders to enter the medium large centre console walk around segment, with the 33 Seawalker they launched in 2011.  Now following nearly ten years the company look back into the line with the new 43 Seawalker which the company launched at the end of 2020.  Ten years is a lot of time and Fiart have catch up to do in a segment which has grown not little, and today following the success of some are starting to get back interested in, with two other projects also upcoming in the line for 2021.  The Fiart 43 Seawalker offers an interior sleeping four guests in a forward double berth and a midships cabin with two berths.  As any centre console walk around sport cruiser the 43 Seawalker is all about outside, and the here this thirteen meter sport cruiser does not disappoint thanks to the full deck use form fore to aft. The helm station central console offers three bolster type settees, behind this is the galley, and more aft we find two opposite looking bench settee with table and a sun-pad. There is also an option to replace the central aft sun-pad with a large C-shaped dinette, this following Fiart's offers in its sport cruisers line up.  The Fiart 43 Seawalker is powered by four Volvo engine options from 380 to 480hp.  Propulsion is Volvo's forward looking IPS pod drives and or stern drives with 400hp engines.  Hull one of the 43 Seawalker was sold to a South of France customer.  

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.84 m (45.4ft)

Beam - 3.99 m

Draft - 1.04 m 

Displacement - 11 t

Fuel Capacity - 1150 l

Water Capacity - 620 l

Accommodation - four berths in two cabins

Max Person - 14

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 380hp, D6 400hp, D6 440hp, D6 480hp

Propulsion - Volvo DPI dual propeller stern drives, forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives

Certification - CE B

www.fiart.com

Project: Sirena 68

Sirena Yachts is proud to announce their all-new addition to the fleet, the Sirena 68 that will make her public debut at the 2021 Cannes Yachting Festival. The 68 is the direct result of Sirena’s response to its customers’ requests. The hull shape encapsulates a cavernous volume of space, allowing everyone onboard to get comfortable, but still be together. Like all Sirena’s, the 68 incorporates the innovative German Frers hull design which delivers world-class range by allowing displacement speeds for extended cruising. The saloon welcomes those entering from the aft deck where a dining area and open-concept galley awaits them. One will notice the play of light in this expansive space, as enormous panes of glass draw the eye to ever-changing views. On the lower deck the Sirena 68 offers three double cabins with a midships master stateroom stretches across the full beam, where a king-size berth welcomes the owner, a floating sensation is provided thanks to the unique inventive lighting design and to the large hull side windows admit natural light.  The Sirena 68 is standard powered by twin Volvo 900hp, with optional 1000hp and line shaft V-drive propulsion.  Top speed is 26 knots with standard power and two more knots with the optional units.  Range is up to 1200 nautical miles at a ten knots cruise.

www.sirenayachts.com

Lake Lanier Boat Explosion Injures Six Persons

An eleven meter Carver motor cruiser injured six people as it exploded and went on fire after refuelling at the gas dock in Margaritaville, Port of Indecision, Lake Lanier, Georgia at about 14:30 hours of Sunday, May ninth.  Georgia game wardens and Hall County Fire Services found a devastating scene and had to airlift a 16-year-old female and a 13-year-old male to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Hall County Fire Services also transported a 39-year-old woman to Grady by ambulance.  A nearby dock also went on fire due to a jet ski that drifted away from the area.  Hall County Fire Marshal is investigating what caused the fire and explosion to the Carver Cruiser.

The Carver motor cruiser in this fire is a 638 Santego model produced from 1990 to 92, and then renamed as the 380 and produced till 2002.  An evolution of the 3867 which introduced Carver's Santego line, the 638/380 Santego is reported to have sold a thousand units in its twelve year production run.  The Carver Santego was an evolution of the Mariner line which was introduced in the seventies featuring a semi-raised bridge station to allow for a roomier interior.

Falcon Yachts New Web Site

Falcon Yachts present its new World wide web virtual showroom.  This new website coincides with the relaunching of the brand, with a new ownership, T-Quest Holdings taking over the name in 2019.  Falcon Yachts was founded by Edoardo Spreafico in 1988, when he opens his boat yard in Viareggio and with it launches the Falcon Yachts brand.  But Spreafico entrance into luxury yachting starts in 1968 when he opens the CTM Cielo Terra Mare luxury goods shop in Milan.  In 1970 the Milan office is followed by a new one in Viareggio dedicated to yachting and becoming Versilcraft official dealer.  In 1988 the Canteiri Navali Versilcraft in Viareggio is opened by Spreafico and with it the Falcon Yachts brand is launched.  The idea here is to build the Falcon Yachts brands in the size of sixteen to 23 meters, leaving the yachts larger to this for the Versilcraft brand.  Following increase in demand another establishment is opened in Viareggio in 1992, called Falcon Yachts, while the Versilcraft shipyard is renamed to Cantieri Navali Falcon, this is also marking the separation of the two brands. Falcon Yachts had an incredible success in the nineties and first decade of the new millennium with various semi production super yachts; 82, 86/90, 91/92 series, and 100 models being top sellers in there respective sizes and semi-custom offering. Falcon Yachts will close its doors in 2015, but in 2019 T-Quest Holdings will buy the brand and a new facility in Pisa to cater for production. Falcon Yachts new website takes you around in Italian, English, and Spanish language. 

www.falconyachts.com

Production History;

24 1987-88 (3)

80 1992-93 (3)

80S 1993-95 (18)

92 1994-97 (7)

82S 1994-98 (13)

91 1996-98 (2)

100 1996-2005 (25)

86 1999-2009 (28)

106 2001-02 (2)

80 2001-05 (2)

112 2003 (1)

114 2004 (1)

102 2005-08 (8)

90 2006-11 (7)

115 2006-11 (5)

New Model: Grand Banks 85

In March 2021 Grand Banks launched its new flagship, the much awaited 85 model.  This new Grand Banks flagship enters the famous brand into the Super Yacht beyond eighty feet, with the previous largest model being the 76 launched in 2011.  With Mark Richards taking over Grand Banks in 2015 the famous brand has changed dramatically in recent years becoming from a traditional trawler inspired product with a semi planning hull to an innovative one characterized of a light weight stiff strong construction, and a planning V-warp planning hull shape design for maximum efficiency.  The Grand Banks 60 first model of the new management launched in 2017, showed the new direction of this important name in production pleasure boating.  Considering Mark Richards CV of Americas Cup and his Palm Beach brand we are looking at impressive performance details from weight saving which is about 30% less to most of the competition in the same size without losing any technical attributes, to the design of the V-Warp hull form which moves little to less water and provides maximum efficiency.  Both these details have been always present in the Palm Beach brand, putting them in the Grand Banks without losing the identity of a brand build on the opposite is not easy.  I personally like what Richards is producing with Grand Banks, it is interesting to see what the brand followers and long standing fans think of this.  Sales are definitely complimenting what Richards is doing with the 60 arriving to twenty hulls up until the start of 2021, even though she is among the most expensive nineteen meters production boats in the market.

Technical Data:

LOA - 25.91 m (85ft)

Hull Length - 24 m

Waterline Length - 22.7 m

Beam - 6.71 m

Displacement - 49 t light

Fuel Capacity - 10031 l

Water Capacity - 1500 l

Accommodation - nine guests in four cabins, three crew in two cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D13 1000hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives

Speed - 30 knots max 27 knots fast cruiser 21 knots cruise

Range - 1000 nm at 21 knots

Hull Shape - V-warp hull

Construction - vacuum infused cored Corecell with E-cell, Carbon fibre in structural areas  

Project - Grand Banks Mark Richards, Grand Banks Dovell for naval architecture

www.grandbanks.com

Improve-it = Fairline F//Line 33

Fairline stylish F//Line 33 now offers a new cockpit layout, which provides both sunbathing and seating options simultaneously. Additional improvements include a larger helm, a sleek hard top and a below deck galley all of which expand the thrilling possibilities onboard the F//Line 33.  Fairline’s sleek and sporty dayboat, the F//Line 33, has taken the market by storm since launching in September 2019, winning awards across the industry. A collaboration between Fairline and Italian designer Alberto Mancini, the F//Line 33 has been highly praised for its breath-taking design and impressive performance achieving speeds of 48 knots and comfortable 30 plus cruising. The new cockpit features ‘C’ shaped seating to the starboard side with the aft backrest doubling up as a headrest for the two-person sunbed. The cockpit will comfortably seat four to six people around a fixed height teak-top table. There is also an optional cantilever pedestal, which neatly stows the table behind the seat cushions when not in use. A wet bar to the port side includes a fitted sink and folding tap as standard, which can be upgraded to include a fridge and electric griddle, with a drawer icemaker in the seat base opposite. The new option to add an electric hob and sink below deck as well, means customers can enjoy their F//Line 33 during an even longer boating season and the more spacious helm allows for up to two large Garmin touchscreen displays.  The F//Line 33 interior features an immaculate design, which is complimented with a refined neutral palette, modern pops of colour and luxurious veneer finishes, all paired with technologically advanced daylight panels and a mirror TV to add light and space.

www.fairline.com

Sportfish Boat With Migrants Beaches in Boynton Beach Florida

A twelve meter sportfish cruiser coming from Haiti with thirty migrants onboard ended aground and partly sank in Boynton Beach, Florida on the morning of third May. Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and Gulf Stream Police Department detained all thirty individuals, keeping them in federal custody. The sportfish was reported leaking fuel, and was cleaned from all contaminations on Thursday sixth, and then salvaged by TowBoatU.S Fort Lauderdale on Saturday eight May.  It is not reported if the sportfish cruiser was stolen. 

The sportfish cruiser in this sinking is a first generation Post 42 Sport Fisherman.  Introduced in the fall of 1974 and produced till 1983, Post produced 230 units of the 42 Sport Fisherman, making it's best sold model to date.  The Post 42 Sport Fisherman was replaced by the 43 in 1984, with a second generation 42 coming in 1997.

New Model: Azimut 53

There was a lot of interest for the launch of the Azimut 53, from the brand fans, competition, and self generated by the largest privately owned yacht and super-yacht builder. The self generated interest was very well thought with three pre-launch information Youtube video series, and official digital unveil of the model on 13 March.  The 53 continues and expands Alberto Mancini story with Azimut, which started in 2018, and with it is in his second model for the Flybridge line following the 78 launched in 2019.  This new Azimut 53 changes how the medium sized flybridge yachts sub twenty meter from the Italian builder look by not little, and here we see a motor yacht with a very low sporty upper structure.  The Azimut 53 following the 78 is also the second flybridge model to be powered by Volvo IPS propulsion, this choice being made to increase space, allow better performance and also make owner operation easier thanks to the systems joystick.  Contrary to the 78 and the sports S series models onwards from 2011, the 53 features a traditional dual propulsion set up. Azimut was one of the first to join the IPS revolution in 2006 with the 43S, and then in 2008 it followed this with the sister Atlantis brand and its 50X model.  But putting the IPS into the flybridge line has been a long research process from Azimut even though back in the IPS initial sea trials from 2005 the company was rumoured to have done extensive testing on flybridge boats with both the 50 and 55 models from that era.  The results of that testing seems to have brought us here to this new Azimut 53, which possibly has been in the making especially below the waterline much longer then we think.     

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.78 (55.1ft)

Hull Length - 15.8 m

Beam - 4.95 m

Displacement - 30 t at full load

Fuel Capacity - 2400 l

Water Capacity - 590 l

Accommodation - six berths in three cabins one crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 725hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS950 dual propeller pod drives

Speed - 31 knots max 26 knots cruise

Project - Alberto Mancini exterior, Azimut for interior and naval architecture

Certification - CE, UNI ISO 8666 for data

www.azimutyachts.net

Leonardo da Vinci DNA

Sometimes I wonder if it was not for the Italians where would yachting be.  The Italians have been pushing the envelope in design and engineering in boats since pleasure boating started, and they seem to never stop.  Actually when you think they can't go any further here comes the next break through and again it is from the shoe shaped peninsula.

For the past months we have seen again the Italians push the envelope again, and while some of these may get the stick for being too different they do bring something fresh to yachting design.

A recent fresh revolutionary design comes from the Cetera 60, a new brand founded by Fiart entering into explorer and live aboard segment.  This explorer motor yacht, reinvents cabin space by putting all three cabins on the main deck.  With the top deck serving as lounge dining area.  

Another technical break though comes from Bimax who present a forward looking shaft drive system on an eight and a ten meter sport cruiser.  This system called Eco Drive System apart improving efficiency, also reduces bow angle at lower speeds.  

Sure some reviewer sometimes calls the Italians to much design focused, but really yachting has a big thank you to give to Italy and all the inventions they brought of a lot of stuff which today we take fore granted.   

Extended bathing platform and tender garage by Ferretti in the mid eighties, surface drives and propeller tunnels by Italcraft along with the variable deep Vee hull, full beam midship cabin by Versilcraft in the seventies repicked by Azimut in the late nineties, large windows in cabins by Azimut in late nineties, astern galley again by Ferretti in 2005, integrated windscreen by Pershing in early nineties, and Baia also being the first to use Arnesons trimmable surface drives on a production motor boat.