September 30, 2021

Monthly News - September 2021

- pic of the month- GB Marine Group Factory Reopens

Alva New Dealership in Southern Europe

Alva Yachts, German manufacturer of 100% electric boats and catamarans, and builder of floating villas, has just announced an addition in their dealer network. The newly founded Alva Yachts Med /AY_MED) is a spin off from AMO Yachts and ABS Yachts Sales S.L. in Ibiza. Beside their headquarters in Marina Botafoch, the main port of Ibiza, they will open a large office in Porto Portals in Mallorca beginning next year.  Founded in 1995, AMO yachts is a prestigious yacht broker specialized in motor yachts. The sales team operates the national and international markets.  The main office in the heart of Marina Botafoch offers exceptional access to the port moorings, facilities and services.  As well as yacht sales the company offers a wide variety of services related to Ship management: yacht registration, leasing and charter, maintenance crew, events organization and many more. AY_MED have purchased two Alva Yachts which will be available for sea trials and charter from 2022.  The new dealership is the latest addition to Alva's Master dealer network which consist of five main dealers for the following regions: Southern Europe, Northern Europe, Americas, Asia -Pacific, Russia / CIS.

Alva Building an IMOCA for Vendee Globe 2024/25

Alva YACHTS, the German Luxury Electric Yacht brand, takes up the challenge of the Vendée Globe, also known as the "Mount Everest of the Seas", and invests in the construction of an IMOCA racing boat for its newly established team "AlvaA blue".With this new racing yacht, German skipper Joerg Riechers, one of the world's best single-handed sailors, will be at the start of the upcoming Vendée Globe 2024/2025 and many preparatory races, such as the Transat Jaques Fabre and the Route du Rhum. According to Holger Henn (founder and CEO Alva YACHTS), this step once again underlines the company's exceptional position and pioneering spirit in innovative boatbuilding. Henn says: "Alva Yachts is to offer the best boats for forward thinking explorers of the oceans.”His skipper Riechers comments: "There is no better test ground for marine products than the remote and rough spaces of the Southern Arctic Ocean. Solutions which work down there, will work everywhere. Alva Yachts customers will highly benefit from the knowledge gained in this region full of challenges."The great strain on materials and especially on electronic components, such as sensors and controls, plays a major role for the developers at Alva Yachts in equipping the Vendée Globe Boots. Henn says, "The special focus will be on optimizing our electronics and telematics equipment, which we will then also use in the autonomous electric yachts of the Ocean Eco series.  "The design process for the "Alva blue IMOCA" has already started. In addition to FarrDesign from Annapolis/USA, one of the world’s most renowned racing yacht design office, the two French designers Guillaume Dupont and Etienne Bertrand are also on board. Riechers deliberately chose this set-up as a mix of innovation and tradition.FarrDesign has proven its exceptional position over the years and was almost the only non-French company to break into the IMOCA market, which is strongly dominated by French Designers. The actual boat building is done by Trimarine, Fernando Sena's company. This shipyard stands for many pioneering achievements in boatbuilding with composite materials. Among others, seven America's Cup boats, the Volvo 70, IOR Maxis, TP 52 and some IRC Raceboats were built there. Alva Yachts will present its commitment and the investment for the construction of the IMOCA60 for the upcoming Vendée Globe 2024/25 to the public during this year's Cannes Yachting Festival. This opens up the opportunity for potential sponsors to be involved as a partner in this outstanding sporting event, which generates around €332 million in media value worldwide.


Azimut-Benetti Group Order Up Three Fold

With value of production standing at €850m, up €100m on the previous year, Azimut|Benetti Group closes the 2020/21 yachting season with great satisfaction. Despite one or two physiological production slowdowns due to shift organization issues resulting from anti-Covid policies and the more recent procurement problems in the supply chain, the Group has happily seized the moment of commercial exuberance that has characterised the last 6 months, with its two Azimut Yachts and Benetti brands delivering a total of 245 boats. This figure is dominated by the most appealing models on the market, thanks to their distinctive characteristics in terms of design, innovative technology and sustainability. The stand-outs are Azimut Yachts’ new flagship, the Trideck, of which 10 units had already been sold before the official debut at Cannes 2021, and Benetti’s Oasis 40M, which to date has sold 14 units in the 2020/21 season. Also worthy of note is the unprecedented success of the Verve 47, the outboard positioned at the high premium end of the segment, of which a total of 55 units have been sold (30 in the year just ended). It should also be remembered that more than half the value of production (about €570m of the total 850) refers to boats over 80 feet in length, a segment in which the Group's leadership has been further consolidated as a result of growing popularity on the international market. But the most satisfying result is the order book, which has increased three-fold compared to the previous season and now stands at €1.2bn, of which about 900 for models over 80 feet in length. Of this €900m, 508m were booked in the last 90 days, net of boats delivered in this period. At geographical level, while there is confirmation that sales are balanced across the three main continents, the APAC region has leapt forward, rising to 15% of total sales and proving to be a particularly promising market.  “I close my first year as Group CEO,” said Marco Valle, “fully aware that we have achieved the challenging objectives we set ourselves. I am also looking ahead to the upcoming season buoyed by the excellent order book, which has practically saturated production for the year that has just begun, and I am very confident that the new projects we are working on will allow us to continue along our organic growth path in the medium term too.”  Valle’s words were echoed by Giovanna Vitelli, Group Executive Vice President: “It is a source of pride for me to see that the industrial strategy defined by the Company, based on the development of products that are increasingly innovative and visionary, continues to prove successful. Today our biggest challenge is to continue our research into environmental sustainability. After definitively achieving our goal of reducing consumption (by at least 40%) and therefore emissions, through the use of carbon fiber and optimised hulls and propulsion systems, we are working on other technical solutions to offer yachts that are ever more respectful of the environment.”  The Group confirms investments in Research and Development of over €100m in the three-year period.

Azimut-Benetti Group Wins Six World Trophies

The gala evening on September 11 was a milestone for Azimut|Benetti Group, which won some of the top awards at the World Yachts Trophies organized by SG Publications, the publisher of magazines Yachts France, Yachts Italia and Yachts Europe.  During the event, which was held as it is every year in Cannes with about 700 guests, 30 awards were made to winners chosen from 69 finalists. The panel of journalists, historians and yachting experts chose six models built by Azimut|Benetti Group, which continues year after years to see a rise in the number of awards received by its fleet.  In the 45 to 64-foot (13.70 to 19.50-meter) category, Azimut 53 Fly won the Best Interior Design award. Designed to offer a family the chance to organize long stays on board in complete comfort, not least because of a significant increase in both the space on board and its perception, the 53 Fly stands out for a day area laid out almost entirely on the same level, with the galley and the living area separated by a difference in height of just 25 centimeters, and for the great sense of airiness and freedom of movement this brings, which is enhanced by side windows that run uninterrupted right up to the windshield. The night area is also very generously sized, featuring a spacious owner’s suite midships and a particularly roomy VIP cabin offering much more storage space and distance between the bed and the bulkhead than the market average.  In the 64 to 80-foot (19.50 to 24-meter) category, Azimut 68 Fly won the Best Layout award. Making her world debut at Cannes and designed in partnership with Alberto Mancini (exterior styling) and Achille Salvagni (interior design), the 68 Fly puts the owner’s desires front and center with three proposed layouts, the first of which has an elegant lounge at the entrance to the Main Deck, with the galley off to one side, separated by a solution that combines ribbing and plexiglass. The second version has an open-style galley for owners who prefer a less formal setting, while the last version has the galley at the entrance to the Main Deck to facilitate direct flow between interior and exterior, with the living area set apart towards the bow. The Azimut 68’s three interior layouts all have a multi-purpose area midships on the Main Deck.  In the same category, Magellano 66 won the Best Interior Design award. For owners who refuse to put any limits on their cruising, the 66 is a modern long-range yacht, 20 meters in length, with hugely comfortable interiors and a layout that ensures a high level of privacy. The entire day area is all on the same level, with no steps, for free and safe movement. And with the stairways down to the Lower Deck positioned laterally in the midship section of the yacht, the wheelhouse and galley are separated from the rest of the day area, allowing the crew to go about their business without disturbing guests. On the Lower Deck, in addition to the owner’s stateroom, there are two guest cabins and a fourth “wildcard” space, which can be used as a storeroom for provisions, a garage for sports equipment, or an additional cabin with bunk beds.  In the category spanning yachts from 98 to 164 feet long (from 30 to 60 meters), Azimut Grande Trideck won the Best Interior Design award. Azimut’s new flagship, not to mention the largest yacht ever built by the shipyard and the first three-deck model in the range, the Trideck has interiors by Achille Salvagni, who abandons the preconception of attributing specific functions to the various areas and transforms the boat into a more fluid and shapeshifting space. The interiors have been expanded in width and perfectly integrated with the exteriors, each becoming an extension of the others. Salvagni doesn’t stop at redefining the onboard environments, but enriches them with a powerful effort in terms of the decor, putting the accent on the tension in the forms and the purity of clean lines. The perceived quality of the setting as a whole is of the highest level, thanks to the skilful alternation of materials, the refinement of how they are combined, and the choice of colours and finishes.  In the same category, the Best Innovation prize was awarded to Benetti Motopanfilo 37M, the ambitious project presented at Cannes which draws inspiration from the past and projects it into the future, bringing with it an approach to life and design that is typical of a certain period, along with references to the cultural heritage of Benetti and its most iconic yachts from the 1960s. The concept developed by the Shipyard, in concert with designer Francesco Struglia for the exterior styling and the firm Lazzarini Pickering Architetti for the interiors, has its raison d’être in the past but embraces the latest stylistic, technical and technological know-how to give the yacht a fresh and modern feel. For this extraordinary project, Benetti and Loro Piana Interiors have formed an important partnership in which the Maison has fitted out both the interiors and, in part, the exteriors of the the yacht, choosing classic fabrics for summer on the water and first and foremost linen, in warm white ‘Biancore’ tones with blue and malachite accents. Connemara was chosen for the upholstery and bed covers, while Papeete, in refined Malachite, is the choice for sommiers and pillows.  Benetti Zazou, lastly, won the Best Layout award in the 164 to 270-foot superyacht category (50 to 82 meters). This 65-meter full custom yacht has sleek, flowing lines, a Carinthia blue steel hull, and an aluminium superstructure. The exterior styling is by Giorgio M. Cassetta, with interior and, in part, exterior design by Dutch firm Sinot Yacht Architecture & Design.  The yacht accommodates 12 passengers in 6 cabins and has has one of the largest Sun Decks in the category: over 20 meters long, it has a 5-meter long, 1.5 m deep infinity pool, a gym, a pantry, a head, a bar unit, a table seating 10 and a sunbathing area that can be converted into an open-air cinema. The sky lounge on the Upper Deck is perfectly integrated into the exterior spaces in the stern, while inside, on the same deck, a massage room that can be converted into a double cabin precedes the wheelhouse, with the ship office next to it and, on the port side, the captain’s cabin and a pantry. Aft on the Main Deck is an open area set aside for relaxation. In the interiors, the day area midships can be converted into a cinema and the owner’s suite also features a lounge and private balcony.  The beach area on the Lower Deck provides access to the exterior and the beach club interiors, while a lounge area with low table, sofa and armchair is joined by a closed space in which to store the water toys. The night area midships provides three double cabins and one guest cabin (can be converted into a double), the galley and accommodation for a crew of 14. A lift connects all decks from the Lower to the Upper Deck.

Azimut New Sales Manager

Azimut|Benetti Group has appointed Nicola Pomi as General Manager of the Azimut Yachts brand. Taking up his post in September, he has a long track record at Volvo Penta, where for the past 15 years he has held the position of Vice President Global Business Unit Marine, developing the marine sector in various areas of the world and various market segments.  With the arrival of Pomi, Azimut Yachts further strengthens its leadership team, providing an ever better response to the growing dynamism of a market in which innovation, new product development and the production process are the key drivers of competitiveness.


Bayliss Big Win at White Marlin Open

444 boats fished this year’s White Marlin Open, and Bayliss boats sure made their mark on the leaderboards. The crew on Seven had an outstanding week of fishing! They brought in a first place 775-pound blue marlin worth $1.2 million and a first place 137.5-pound tuna worth $1.1 million. This was the first time in the WMO's 48 year history that a boat had won two divisions. Seven almost placed in the white marlin division as well, but in the last hour of the event their third place 77-pound catch dropped to fourth place.  Mama C (Bayliss 60’) caught the second place Blue Marlin weighing 559.5 pounds. Lights Out (Bayliss 65’) also had the tournament’s top angler, William Haugland. Congratulations to the owners and crews!

Bayliss Ladies Take First

Congratulations to the team on Tarheel for their first-place victory in the 32nd Annual Alice Kelly Memorial Ladies Only Billfish Tournament. Fishing was slow for many of the 145 registered boats, but Tarheel had a steady day releasing one blue marlin and three whites ending the day with 450 points. Tiffany Day also received top angler for the tournament.

Bayliss Finds the Top In Pirates Cove

Wave Paver landed first place in the Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament earlier this month. They caught 11 billfish to earn 1,250 points, and also won the daily on day one of the tournament. Mama C finished in second-place, releasing three blue marlin and two whites totaling 950 points. In a tight finish, Tarheel started the final day of fishing in third-place, but within the last hour of the tournament found themselves in fourth-place with 850 points.  Out of the 99 boats fishing the tournament, it was exciting to watch three Bayliss Boats fight for the top spots on the leaderboard!

Bayliss Takes First at Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament

August was a great month for Seven's crew. Seven received first overall in billfish points in the Virginia Beach Billfish Tournament. It was rough conditions on the last day of fishing, but Seven managed to edge out the competition in the final hour of the tournament. They released nine white marlin and one sailfish totaling 700 points. Mama C also ended on a good note, placing third in billfish releases with 560 points. 


Benetti Double Win at World Yacht Super Yachts Award 2021

During the World Superyacht Awards ceremony on September 5th, Benetti’s first Oasis 40M, serial-awardee M/Y “Rebeca”, won the “Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and below and 40M and above” category. The judges’ initial focus was on 40.8m Rebeca’s attractive exterior design by RWD, which drew compliments for its stylish appearance and spacious, fully-featured decks. They unanimously admired the beach area at the yacht’s stern, where fold-down bulwarks and a submersible bathing platform/passerelle greatly increase its size and connection with the sea, while they considered the large six-square-metre, glass-backed infinity pool to be a rare feature for a yacht of this size.  The judges admired the seamless division between the outdoor living spaces and the spacious accommodation, designed by Bonetti/ Kozerski Architecture. This makes the most of the huge panoramic windows, many of them fully opening, and brings chic sophistication to a relaxed and uncluttered living space. Other notable features include a completely rethought wheelhouse with a minimalist steering console and floor-to-ceiling windows. The icing on the cake is its perfectly optimised naval architecture from P.L. Ausonio that provides a top speed of 18 knots, good seakeeping and a low fuel consumption of 89 litres per hour at its economical cruise of 11 knots.  The Oasis 40M amplifies contact with the water and the authenticity of life onboard in a dynamic style that is chic and refined. She is the first yacht to feature the OASIS DECK, a unique feature created to combine five key characteristics to superyacht owners who desire a less formal brand of luxury.  Benetti megayacht M/Y “Alfa” (formerly “Alkhor”) claimed first place in another key category for the brand, “Displacement Motor Yachts 1000GT to 1599GT”. The judge’s marking of each yacht in this category is divided into six segments covering every aspect of the vessel from exterior styling, interior and exterior design, quality of construction, layout and technical aspects.  Her exterior, drawn by Benetti’s own design team who were also responsible for her naval architecture, fully satisfies today’s client demand for elegance and unity with the yacht’s maritime surroundings. Wrapped in a handsome, forthright profile cut with three strong horizontal lines of panoramic windows, the superstructure meets this demand with five large and distinct deck spaces containing every amenity, while a beach club set across the beam of her lower deck to provide cooling shade and easy access to the sea, is only revealed when its twin doors fold down from the hull’s sides.  Her interior design, by Luxury Projects, is modern and unfussy, and makes use of a restricted palette of soft, warm colours along with finely crafted wood, stone, leather and marble. This creates a sense of calm, richness and a connection with one’s surroundings that was particularly admired by the judges. The elegant 70-meter custom Benetti yacht has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Favored features include a variable geometry swimming pool, a vertical bow with a “touch and go” helicopter landing area and a Jacuzzi on the Sky Deck. The Judges issued a special commendation of M/Y Luminosity among “Displacement Motor Yachts 3000GT and Above”. The judges are always interested in yachts that pioneer environmentally friendly technology, so they were impressed to see the advanced diesel electric hybrid propulsion and energy-saving household systems onboard a true Gigayacht. Specifically thanking Benetti for the contribution to a cleaner environment, the judges considered Luminosity’s environmental credentials unmatched.


Feadship Shines at World SuperYacht Awards

Last night’s BOAT International World Superyacht Awards in the Monte Carlo Sporting complex saw Feadship take home two prizes. As usual, the winners of the coveted Neptune trophies were decided by a panel of current and former superyacht owners.  The majestic 99.95-metre Moonrise eclipsed her rivals to take home the award for best displacement super yacht (3000 GT+) while our inspirational remake of the 1954 Feadship Istros was named Best Rebuild. Congratulations to the owners and everyone involved in these epic – and now award-winning – projects.

Feadship with Le Grand in the Groove

It’s been a quiet time for entertainment with few of us doing much dancing. Missing the chance to put smiles on faces, the people at Feadship who organise our famous parties have devised a way to bring musical talent into the homes of Feadship friends and fans around the world. Last Friday saw the launch event of Feadship SoundWaves with a spectacular live show by top Dutch DJ Fedde Le Grand. Turn up your speakers and relive some of the top tunes played by Fedde as night fell on our Makkum yard.

Feadship New Ocean Collection

Feadship is about to launch an exclusive range of nautical essentials for the sailors of today and tomorrow (yup, there’s even a baby romper). From jersey t-shirts and pique polos to fleece hoodies and double-knitted beanies, the Ocean Collection is a pure custom line of leisure wear for on board and off. Each piece is made from 100% organic cotton with details like mother-of-pearl button plackets, signature taping and the iconic F-motif. Sourced, designed and produced by Feadship, all items are fully sustainable in compliance with the Global Organic Textile Standard and Better Cotton Initiative. 

Feadship New Office Location

Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects, Feadship Refit and Services and the Feadship marketing team will be moving to a great new office on 1 October. Ideally situated close to Schiphol airport in order to make visits from clients and design teams even easier, the premises are centrally located in relation to our four yards and easily accessible. The complex is currently being fitted out to the very latest ways of working.


Ferretti Group Wins Four World Yachts Trophies 2021

At the World Yachts Trophies 2021, the prestigious yachting season event organized by SG Publications, Ferretti Group won four prizes. The event took place on Saturday September 11th in Cannes and was attended by guests and business insiders. Ferretti Group was presented with four prizes that reward the perfection of style and design embodied by the prestigious new models presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2021.  The unmistakable Italian style and many new design and technological features gave the Group’s boats a resounding victory.  Here are the Awards assigned to each boat: Ferretti Yachts 1000 and Custom Line Navetta 30: Best Layout Trophy, both in the 64 to 80-foot category (19.50-24 meters); Pershing 6X: Best Exterior Design Trophy, 45 to 64 foot-category (13,70-19,50 meters); Wally WHY200: Best Avant-Garde Trophy, 80 to 98-foot category (24-30 meters).  These awards confirm the leadership of Ferretti Group, which was able to keep its vision alive and is now rewarded with some of the most sought-after prizes in the industry, confirming its clear leadership in terms of both aesthetics and innovation.  After the record-breaking results reported for the first half of the year, Ferretti Group continues to grow with many important novelties in the coming months.


Grand Banks Launches GB Marine Group

Grand Banks Yachts, along with sister brands Palm Beach Motor Yachts and Eastbay Yachts, is proud to announce the formation of the GB Marine Group. The three world-class brands all adopt the proprietary V-Warp® Hull design that is exclusive to GB Marine Group. The V-Warp® hull form was inspired by the U.S. Navy and NASA databases on waveforms, and was adopted by group CEO, Mark Richards, when he launched his first 38-footer to worldwide acclaim in 1998 under the Palm Beach Motor Yachts marque he founded. A champion ocean racer, Richards wanted to offer yacht owners a unique product that guarantee both stability and high-performance running characteristics while also providing class-leading fuel efficiency. But the V-Warp® technology goes much deeper than just the hull form: it encompasses the synergies realized by combining the shape with in-house design and engineering that inform the materials, processes and construction techniques the group employs. The output are lighter and stiffer yachts, that are beautifully balanced. The result has been lauded by magazine editors around the globe, where vessels have outperformed their competition in all sea states. “Due to the amazing performance characteristics of our V-Warp® technology, we have incorporated the same ethos across all the GB Marine Group brands,” says Richards. “The decision to do this was based on our experience with the platform, and our dedication to build and deliver the highest quality, and best performing motor yachts in the industry. 

GB Marine Group Factory Reopens

Due to government-led COVID-19 restrictions in Malaysia the GB Marine Group factory has been partially or completely closed since June 1, 2021. Despite the factory closure, the company has seen an incredible 300% year-over-year increase in net profit and substantial increases to the order book across all three brands.  The balance sheet reflects the overall strong market for luxury yachts, having increased from S$10.7 million as of June 30, 2020, to over S$45 million just one year later. Grand Banks Yachts Board Chairman Heine Askaer-Jensen credits Mark Richards and his team for guiding the company through challenging times: “The pandemic has led to temporary production halts in Malaysia, on the one hand, and increased demand for bigger luxury boats on the other. Despite the immense challenges, we have delivered a commendable performance in 2021 with a healthy order book.” For his part, Richards credits his “customers, contractors, management and staff for their perseverance and hard work.”  As the Malaysian yard reopens, GB Marine Group is pleased to announce having a fully vaccinated workforce and a return to 100% operating capacity by mid-September.


Greenline Launches Three Hybrid Experience Centres

Grennline newly launched: Three Hybrid Experience Centres; Portorož, Slovenia -  Fort Lauderdale, Florida - Frankfurt, Germany.  Three dedicated hybrid experience centres have been strategically positioned in key locations to encourage customers to test the Greenline fleet and experience the magnitude of our yacht capabilities in person. Escape for the weekend and take some time to enjoy the surroundings during your stay.


Gulf Craft Leads Conversation in Monaco for Super Yachting Future

Gulf Craft has solidified its position as the leading manufacturer of composite superyachts during the 2021 edition of the Monaco Yacht Show. Putting the spotlight on its flagship superyacht, the Majesty 175 - the world’s largest composite production superyacht fully manufactured at its UAE shipyard Gulf Craft hosted a special panel discussion at the Monaco Yacht Club where Gulf Craft Chairman, Mohammed Hussein Alshaali highlighted the benefits of composite yachts, including ease of maintenance and ability to navigate shallow waters.  Also on the panel were Cristiano Gatto, the designer of the Majesty 175, Kostas Christodoulou, Chief Operating Officer of Gulf Craft, and Captain Patricia Caswell, Gulf Craft’s Quality Control Manager and Captain of the Majesty 175. The speakers were joined by industry experts Martin Redmayne, Chairman of Superyacht Group, moderator, Justin Ratcliffe, a yachting journalist for over 25 years and Peter Southgate, Regional Director, Americas/Yacht Code Specialist, Cayman Registry.   Alshaali also shared his inspiration and vision for the Majesty 175, which was built in less than four years in the UAE and will shortly be handed over to her owner, ready to navigate the world. Highlighting the performance of the superyacht, he said that as a mariner himself he paid the closest attention to detail in building her. “We are true Superyacht professionals and perfectionists. Going the extra mile is deeply ingrained in our DNA. The success of a production build yacht depends on the attention paid to details, I have spent a considerable amount of time overlooking every aspect of the construction of Majesty 175.”  During the fascinating discussion Martin Redmayne highlighted how the Majesty 175 has been an industry game-changer, and its relevance to the industry, given the rising cost of steel and aluminium.  Addressing an audience of industry professionals from around the world, he said, “The tremendous potential of composite production superyachts will be realised in the coming years, as more customers will demand it, over conventional hull materials, when they and their advisors understand the real benefits. This shift is strategic and well-timed, given the new trends in the industry. The younger generation of yacht owners are exploring newer horizons, and they don’t want to have limitations and want new levels of efficiency.”  One of the world’s leading boat and yacht builders, Gulf Craft is gaining a strong foothold in international yacht markets with its industry innovation, as yachting enthusiasts increasingly prefer composite hulls over traditional steel hulls for their light weight and low draft.  Gulf Craft will further leverage its membership in the Super Yacht Builders Association (SYBAss) to drive dialogue on composite production superyachts. SYBAss will work with Gulf Craft and regulatory bodies to ensure the rules which superyachts must consider.  The Majesty 175 is built to the specifications outlined by the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) for yachts over 500 gross tonnage (GT). She has a gross tonnage of 780 and her stand-out features include a 5-metre infinity pool at the forward deck and a hybrid sky-lounge that can be converted to an open sun deck. With the full speed of 16.5 knots and cruising speed of 10 knots, Majesty 175 has a range of 4,000 nautical miles, making her a transoceanic vessel.  To further expand its reach in Europe, Gulf Craft has added 8 new distribution partners in 12 key markets such as Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and Portugal, among others, in addition to growing its global footprint in the US, Australia and the Middle East.  Gulf Craft has built more than 10,000 boats already, serving clients around the world. The 2019 AEU Safety Award Winner, Gulf Craft was awarded ‘Best in the Show’ at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show for its 43.3m Majesty 140 superyacht.

Gulf Craft Expands Footprint in Europe

Gulf Craft, one of the world’s leading boat and yacht builders, is highlighting its industry-leading credentials in building composite superyachts at the Cannes Yachting Festival, where the company also announced its major expansion across Europe to meet growing demand from the continent. Gulf Craft has added eight new distribution partners across 12 countries in Europe including key markets such as Germany, Spain, the Netherlands and Portugal, among others, in addition to growing its global footprint in the US, Australia and the Middle East. Leading the conversation around the innovative use of composites in its yachts, Gulf Craft also confirmed its membership in the Super Yacht Builders Association (SYBAss). Uniting and representing superyacht builders around the world, SYBAss will work with Gulf Craft and regulatory bodies to ensure the rules which impact superyachts take into account the unique nature of the vessels. With Gulf Craft trailblazing the use of lightweight materials in its yachts, the membership will also help improve processes and structures within the industry and provide information and knowledge exchange. A regular participant at major European yacht and boat shows for over a decade, Gulf Craft is showcasing its best-selling model, the Majesty 100 at the 2021 Cannes Yachting Festival, underlining its strengths in composite production superyachts. The Majesty is the flagship brand of Gulf Craft, which includes the Majesty 175, the world’s largest composite production superyacht which is scheduled to be handed over to its owner this month.  Speaking from Cannes Yachting Festival, Gulf Craft’s CEO, Talal Nasralla, said: “This year has been exceptionally robust for us with a strong order book and the delivery of our Majesty 175 and other superyachts. These have further established our strengths in manufacturing boats and yachts from composites – a method that is now gaining popularity in Europe, traditionally a steel boat market. We are now leading the global boating conversation around composite-built superyachts with strong demand from Europe and other global markets. To meet this, we have expanded our footprint in Europe.  “Our differentiating value proposition is our fully integrated manufacturing facility and our in-house design capabilities. Every aspect of the build of our vessels, from design concept, engineering, build and beyond happens under one roof. These enable us to deliver highly personalised boats that meet the aspirations of global yachting enthusiasts with a diverse bouquet of five brands for customers to choose from – the Majesty series, affordable Silvercraft family boats, Oryx sports cruisers, Nomad explorer yachts and Touring Passenger Vessels.”  With a significant increase of 42 per cent in new orders in the first half of 2021, Gulf Craft is now ramping up its production capacity and retailer network across the globe. “We can offer our customers in Europe a high-quality vessel to suit their needs. For instance, our Nomad SUV series is well suited to the Nordic region’s cooler climate because it has been designed with an enclosed cabin which is unique to explorer boats currently available in the market,” added Nasralla.  Gulf Craft has built more than 10,000 boats already, serving clients around the world. The 2019 AEU Safety Award Winner, Gulf Craft was awarded ‘Best in the Show’ at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show for its 43.3m Majesty 140 superyacht.


Jarrett Bay Salutes Veterans

In partnership with North Carolina for Military Employment (NC4ME), Gov. Roy Cooper, North Carolina Department of Commerce, and NC4VETS, Jarrett Bay is joining the challenge to "Honor Veterans by Hiring Veterans." Whether you're a veteran, transitioning service member, Guard/Reserve member or military spouse, we encourage you to submit your application for employment with Jarrett Bay. 


Next Yacht Group is Born

Next Yacht Group draws on the tradition of a Group boasting over 40 years of experience, whose magnificent yachts have contributed to making Italian boating uniquely recognised all over the world. Next Yacht Group, as the name suggests, has been established with a clear will to look to the future, going beyond conventional paradigms to offer its own vision of excellence and a different, innovative interpretation of Luxury Lifestyle. Next Yacht Group can rely on the sound economic and financial standing of GB Invest Holding AG, a world leader in Information Technology and in the application potential of artificial intelligence, and is now aiming to combine technological research with the bespoke approach of fully-custom products. Next Yacht Group is an integral part of a wider, strategic plan to invest in the top-end luxury hospitality sector, aiming to connect Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi, thereby uniting - under the Versilia skyline - the capital of worldwide boat building with the glamour of beaches and haute couture, and the historical Hotel Principe di Piemonte with the mellow charm of Maitò Beach, through the unique sensory experience offered by the best starred chefs. NextT Yacht Group is looking to take to the ultimate level the concept of onboard comfort and liveability, on Maiora yachts, and the thrill of a sporty personality combined with high-speed cruising in the utmost safety on AB Yachts. As for CBI Navi, the goal is to conquer the next frontier in the use of technology in steel boat building. Next Yacht Group will be taking part in the Cannes, Genoa, and Monaco boat shows introducing not only its new company structure, but also its fresh, engaging brand identity, successfully reflecting the Group's values and strategies. Considerable investments have already been made to renovate production sites, develop new models, and strengthen the design and organisational structure, coordinated by new CEO Gennaro Candida De Matteo, whose brilliant, long-standing experience in - among others - the yachting industry is bound to be a vital asset for the Group.


MJM Build a Pricing Tool

MJM Build A Boat tool was designed around boater feedback and is intended to let buyers choose colours, options, and see what your estimated pricing will be.  The Build a Pricing Tool allows to explore each model to discover which MJM is ideal for the family and the way one boats.  When complete, the interested buyer downloads a PDF that will contain a rendering of your new MJM, the options you chose, and your estimated pricing.

MJM Welcomes MarineMax Boston

MJM Yachts is pleased to welcome MarineMax Boston to our team and performance yachting family!  "We are thrilled to have a partner with such deep roots in the community and exceptional and comprehensive service experience," said Peter Johnstone, 2nd generation Chairman of MJM.  He went on to say "Our owners are experienced and extremely discerning when it comes to day yachting and cruising, demanding the very best in design, engineering, and manufacturing quality, and comfort.  The experience and knowledge of the MarineMax Boston team is a perfect fit for helping these boaters find the perfect MJM for their needs."

MJM Welcomes Cape Yachts

Cape Cod, Buzzards Bay, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are some of the most visited MJM areas. We are thrilled to be working with Dave and Jane Nolan and their Cape Yachts team of professionals. You will recognize several of their team members that have provided leadership in the industry over the years. Cape Yachts provides concierge support to their area. The summer is short, and you can arrange service, storage, pick up and drop off of your MJM with their South Wharf Yard in Padanaram, MA. Dave and Jane are lifelong boaters and have grown their business since the early 1990’s. Dave’s favorite quote is “Most people say we are a boat dealer. Our business is about keeping promises”. You will enjoy their sales team. They are some of the most knowledgeable around. Whether you are buying, selling, or just looking for help with seasonal boat needs, Cape Yachts will be an invaluable resource to our MJM family! Welcome aboard!!

MJM Welcomes MarineMax Danvers

“We are very excited to be representing MJM Yachts for Northeast Massachusetts out of the Danvers store and look forward to making customers dreams a reality with such a well-built product that focuses on details, performance, and comfort for our consumer,” said Kim Wilkinson, General Manager of MarineMax Danvers.  "The knowledge and experience of the Danvers team will help us to spread the unique adventure and memories that come from owning an MJM.  Their team knows how to deliver world class service and is the perfect choice to represent the MJM brand in this market," said Peter Johnstone, Chairman of MJM Yachts.


Moonen New Sales Manager

Dutch superyacht builder Moonen Yachts has announced the appointment of Victor Caminada to the role of Sales Manager ahead of the Monaco Yacht Show. Victor joins Moonen with a clear vision and brings with him over 24 years of commercial experience, having worked with Amels/Damen Yachting and Holland Jachtbouw.  Victor’s sound technical knowledge of yacht building is based on his maritime engineering degree from Solent University and practical experience as a superyacht broker.


Nordhavn 2022 Film Festival Announced

After the enormous success of the inaugural Nordhavn Film Festival (NFF) back in 2019, Pacific Asian Enterprises is pleased to announce the second installment of the Nordhavn Film Festival will be happening in October 2022. Nordhavn owners and non-owners alike are eligible to participate in the event, which aims to showcase the video talents of all who have a passion for showcasing Nordhavns on film. “We couldn’t have been more thrilled with the level of quality and enthusiasm behind each of the videos from the first Nordhavn Film Festival,” said Nordhavn’s vice president Jim Leishman. “I suspect the creativity and effort that go into the video submissions for the next film fest will match or even surpass what we saw in 2019.” Details and deadline information on the 2022 NFF will be forthcoming, but it’s not too early to start thinking about your theme and start collecting footage.

Nordhavn Wins Best Yacht Design

The Nordhavn 41 beat out seven other boats to capture the award for Best Motor Yacht Under 25 Metres at the 11th annual International Yacht and Aviation Awards (IYAA). Jeff Leishman, Nordhavn’s Chief of Design and his brother Jim Leishman, vice president of Nordhavn, accepted the award at the gala ceremony held August 20 in Venice, Italy. They were accompanied by Murat Telgeren, president of the Telgeren & Partners shipyard in Turkey where the N41 is built, as well as Mine Aktuna, who is responsible for the N41’s interior design. This is the second IYAA award for Nordhavn, which took home the prize for Best Motor Yacht Design in the 25-40 Metre category in 2017 with Nordhavn 96 Lacey Kay. “We are extremely grateful to have earned the win,” said Jim Leishman. “We are very proud of the Nordhavn 41 and all the effort that has gone into her design. It’s an honor to have been recognized among a field of top-notch boats.” The N41 was the smallest nominee in the category. The Nordhavn 41 has been incredibly well received by the yachting market, with more than 40 hulls reserved for purchase.


Princess Announce Ocean Photographer Year 2021 Winner

Princess Yachts, the UK’s largest yacht manufacturer, is delighted announce that Ningaloo Coast-based photographer, Aimee Jan, has been announced as the Ocean Photographer of the Year 2021. Aimee’s beautiful image of a green sea turtle surrounded by glass fish was captured on the world-famous Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. Chosen from thousands of submissions from around the world, it was a unanimous winner amongst the seven world-renowned Ocean Photography Awards judges.  In second place is Exeter-based photographer, Henley Spiers, with a beautiful photograph of diving gannets off the Shetland Islands, Scotland. In third place is Sydney-based photographer, Matty Smith, with an image of a hawksbill turtle hatchling heading out to sea for the first time.


Riviera Record Exports to USA

Australia’s luxury motor yacht builder Riviera is shipping seven new yachts to Miami, Florida, in the company’s largest ever shipment to the United States.  Five of the motor yachts will be among the 10 magnificent models showcased by Riviera at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show to be held on October 27-31.  Valued at over $20 million, this fleet comprises the new 645 SUV, heading for her US boat show premiere, accompanied by a 72 Sports Motor Yacht, a 50 Sports Motor Yacht, a 6000 Sport Yacht, two 5400 Sport Yachts and a 445 SUV.  The yachts will be loaded over two days and three tides, such is the size and scale of this operation.  The motor yachts’ delivery will be an express service to Fort Lauderdale with the ship bypassing two ports to be landed directly into Miami from Brisbane, instead of Riviera’s usual port of call in Savannah.  The motor yachts will land in the US on October 20 in time for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the largest in-water boat show in the world.  Riviera’s owner care team based in Stuart, Florida, will be on hand to meet the ship and assist with the unloading ahead of finessing the motor yachts for Fort Lauderdale.  Riviera will host a spectacular showcase of 10 models at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Riviera’s largest international show for 2021, following the excellent showing at the Cannes Yachting Festival which finished on September 12.  Riviera motor yachts are highly sought after in the US and are supported by an extensive network of Riviera representatives on the east and west coasts.

Riviera Roche Harbour 2021 Rendezvous

Emerald Pacific Yachts played host to more than 25 Riviera luxury motor yachts and 80 fun-loving friends at a mid-year get-together at Roche Harbour in the San Juan Islands, on the US northwest Pacific coast. After many months of quiet social calendars, this year’s Riviera Rendezvous was a highly anticipated event, says Lola Applegate, from Emerald Pacific Yachts.  The weekend kicked off with cocktails and live music by Tom Henry, before a dinner provided by Riviera and Emerald Pacific Yachts. The revelling carried on into Saturday with breakfast mimosas and donuts followed by a scavenger hunt and cornhole – a typically North American lawn game where small bags of corn kernels are aimed at a raised board with a hole in the far end.  For new Riviera owners Kristy and Dave Everson, the weekend was an introduction to a new way of Riviera life. The Eversons are new to the boating world and adore their new 64 Sports Motor Yacht, which they are also eager to learn more about.  It was the second Rendezvous for Laurie and Brian Robertson on their 575 SUV. The Seattle-based couple say they enjoy the opportunity to meet other Riviera owners and hear about their destinations and adventures.

Riviera Perfect Fit for Photographer

Ask a wildlife photographer for their top tip to shoot from a boat and their answer is likely to be to ‘choose your boat wisely’. When wildlife and underwater photographers Wayne and Pam Osborn made the switch from their 49-foot sailboat to a Riviera 445 SUV two years ago, it was a big step.  The Perth-based couple have an eye for a good view. Wayne was the Australian Geographic Australasian Nature Photographer of the Year in 2012 and Pam’s whale, underwater and wildlife work has been featured in Broad magazine.  Together they have published 22 photography books, including their most recent, Rottnest Island: Feathers, Fins and Megafauna, which can be downloaded for free from Apple Books.  The adventurers are repeat travellers to the Azores to photograph sperm whales and they travel frequently to photograph the Coral Triangle region of Indonesia. However, unable to venture overseas for the past year, they have taken the opportunity to turn their focus to their own backyard. Their most recent humpback shots have been taken from the 445 SUV as the whales migrated past Rottnest Island from September to November.  Baleia’s open cockpit provides an ideal vantage to photograph whales. Her large boarding platform features an inbuilt swim ladder and stainless-steel rails that assist a diver in and out of the water.  With a watermaker on board, the couple can rinse their sophisticated camera gear with no limitations.  Once the dive gear has been stowed away, the couple enjoy the social life that Riviera owners know so well. The rear glass bulkhead transforms the cockpit and saloon into one expansive social area.  Pam and Wayne say they look forward to taking more photos on their warm, safe and luxuriously appointed Baleia.  Rottnest Island: Feathers, Fins and Megafauna, as well as all of Pam and Wayne Osborn’s digital books, can be downloaded for free from Apple Books.


Sunreef for Fernando Alonso

Two-time Formula One World Champion Fernando Alonso commissions a custom 60 Sunreef Power Eco catamaran with Sunreef Yachts. The build contract was signed on September 1st at the Yacht Club de Monaco by Fernando Alonso and Sunreef Yachts’ Founder and President Francis Lapp.  Combining avant-gardist green tech and sustainable design, the Sunreef Yachts Eco range offers the industry’s most advanced solutions for a responsible cruising experience, including ultramodern, energy-efficient electric motoryachts.  Fernando Alonso’s custom 60 Sunreef Power Eco will be fitted with electric engines and equipped with the shipyard’s in-house developed solar power system. The yacht will also feature Sunreef Yachts’ custom-engineered ultralight batteries and an energy-saving air-conditioning system. With the signature of this new build contract, the motorsports superstar joins the family of Sunreef Yachts ambassadors.

Sunreef Success at Cannes 2021

With five luxury catamarans on display including two exclusive premieres, Sunreef Yachts celebrated an exceptional showcase at this year’s Cannes Yachting Festival. The company comes back from Cannes with five new build contracts and two prestigious awards.   While the Sunreef 70 has made her official international debut in the sail yacht section of the show in Port Canto, the 60 Sunreef Power was on display for the first time alongside the 80 Sunreef Power in the motor yacht section in the Vieux Port.  The team finalized five build contracts including one for an electric Sunreef 80 Eco sail catamaran, two Sunreef 60, one Sunreef 50 and a 70 Sunreef Power motor yacht.  On the night of September 11th, the team celebrated two victories at the World Yachts Trophies with the 70 Sunreef Power voted as Best Motor Catamaran and the Sunreef Yachts Eco Range winning the Green Yacht Trophy. For the highlight of the evening, the luxurious 60 Sunreef Power Otoctone 60 joined the annual Yacht Parade.


Sunseeker Circular Biomass to Save 1000 Tonnes of Carbon

Leading luxury boat manufacturer, Sunseeker International has announced its partnership with AMP Clean Energy, the specialist developer, operator and owner of low-carbon energy projects. This innovative, new biomass initiative will see the global yacht manufacturer use its waste timber arisings as a source of renewable heat.  The project will enable Sunseeker - which produces around 1,360 tonnes of usable timber arisings from its boat building operations in Poole and Portland – to process the waste timber in order to provide a source of renewable heat to two sites, resulting in savings of approximately 1,200 tonnes of carbon each year.  AMP Clean Energy funded and installed a 500kW biomass boiler at the Technology Centre in Mannings Heath, Poole and a 1MW biomass boiler and ancillary equipment at Osprey Quay in Portland, supplying heat to both sites under a 20-year energy supply agreement.  This move will see Sunseeker replace fossil fuel systems as the primary source of heat – gas at the Technology Centre and oil and gas at Osprey Quay – supporting Sunseeker’s move towards more sustainable manufacturing, which includes reducing its reliance on fossil fuels throughout its supply chain, developing more fuel-efficient and hybrid yachts, and its partnership with the Blue Marine Foundation to help protect the world’s oceans.  As a result of the move away from fossil fuels, Sunseeker will save nearly 24,000 tonnes of carbon over the course of the partnership, and benefit from savings of around one-third equating to £100,000 per annum; over £2m during the 20-year agreement. Andrea Frabetti, Chief Executive Officer at Sunseeker comments: “This is a really innovative project that supports our sustainable development, and our responsibility to reduce carbon emissions throughout our operations. All the timber we use as part of the boat building process comes from FSC certified sources and this solution prevents waste from going to landfill, as well as giving us a renewable source of heat. “The cost and carbon reductions speak for themselves, and it means we can continue to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels at our sites, as well as reduce emissions throughout the wider supply chain.”  Richard Burrell, CEO of AMP Clean Energy added:  “AMP Clean Energy is delighted to have worked with the team at Sunseeker to develop, own and operate this important clean energy generating facility which will help to decarbonise the boat building process.  Our solution was to show how the waste timber in the Sunseeker factory could be cleaned, chipped and processed on-site and then reused as biomass to provide renewable heat to two principal sites.  This really is the circular economy in action – it is not only reusing the waste timber that arises during the manufacturing process reducing the volume of material going to landfill but at the same time provides renewable heat to its manufacturing facilities reducing Sunseeker’s reliance on oil and gas to heat its buildings.”

Sunseeker Wins Three World Yacht Trophies 2021

Sunseeker International is thrilled to announce an incredible trio of wins at the World Yachts Trophies 2021 by Yachts France Magazine for three of its latest models.  The 65 Sport Yacht won the award for the Best Exterior Design in the 64’ – 80’ category, the 88 Yacht won the award for the Best Exterior Design in the 80’ – 98’ category and the 90 Ocean won the award for the Best Layout in the 80’ – 98’ category.  Andrea Frabetti, CEO of Sunseeker International, commented: “The influential awards we see today, are a result of the journey we started decades ago via the team that John Braithwaite built. Whilst the talented group of over 100 designers and engineers has grown over the years, there is continuity in our design language that John was so influential in developing.  “To win not one, but three awards, is an incredible achievement for the company. These fantastic new models have been justifiably recognised for their remarkable features, innovation, cutting-edge design and technical excellence. 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.  “These three cutting-edge yachts are part of the ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ that the company launched earlier in the year and are now receiving critical acclaim and sales the world over as they make numerous show debuts”.

Sunseeker Exceeds Goals at Southampton 2021

Southampton International Boat Show has once again proved itself as one of the key events in the boat show calendar. With ten yachts on display from Sunseeker London Group, we have welcomed hundreds of owners to our new stand, keen to see our latest models including those from ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ launched earlier this year.  We have yet again exceeded our goals which will contribute to what will likely become our best ever autumn show season. With so many new models already launched, and others announced this month, we are on target to double our range to 22 models, many of which are already award-winning.  Andrea Frabetti, CEO commented, “Thanks must go to our clients including those new to the brand, our passionate workforce and to everyone involved in delivering a quality boat show; we are delighted to be back in Southampton doing what we love and sharing our enthusiasm for the world’s best luxury performance motor yachts.”


Swan Shadow Wins Second Edition of Design Innovation Award

On the occasion of the 61st Salone Nautico in Genoa, Swan Shadow has been awarded, in the Superboat category, above 10 meters, for the second edition of the Design Innovation Awards. It is a great achievement for the first motoryacht with Nautor's Swan signature.  


Viking Repeat Win at Swordfish Cup

Defiance won the global Swordfish Cup for the second year in a row! Captain Guy Southerland, behind the wheel of the Viking 64, put Greg Haliday on a broadbill off the coast of New Zealand. Weighed at the Shangaroa Sport Fishing Club, the sword registered 318.5 pounds, was 86 inches long and had a girth of 49 inches. Greg wound the fish in on a 130-pound class conventional reel.

Viking at Manasquan River Marlin and Tuna Club Offshore Open

Continuing a strong tournament season, the Viking 62 Polarizer was the top White Marlin Release Boat hanging eight flags at the Manasquan River Marlin & Tuna Club’s Offshore Open. Top Blue Marlin Release Boat went to the Viking 55 Irish Twin. Canyon Runner, a Viking 48, took 3rd Place Tuna honors with a 240-pound big eye. The Viking 60 Caitlin claimed Top Tuna Stringer with their combined haul of three yellowfin weighing 155.1 pounds. Caitlin had the 2nd Place Longfin with a 44.7-pound fish, and the Viking 46 Billfish MACK 900 finished in 3rd with a 41.3-pound longfin. Pipe Dreamer, a Viking 70, finished in 3rd Place in the Mahi Stringer category with three fish totaling 47.4 pounds. 

Viking at Mobile Game Fishing

Breathe Easy boated just two fish at the Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s Labor Day Invitational– but they were the right ones. With Captain Patrick Ivie behind the wheel, Craig Smith cranked in a 584.2-pound blue marlin aboard Matt McDonald’s Viking 72 to win Heaviest Blue Marlin. Breathe Easy angler Brian Leiser caught the Heaviest Tuna, a 181.6-pounder.  Jake Glass and Zac Taylor each hooked four white marlin to push the Viking 72 Fleur De Lis to 3rd Place Release Boat. The Viking 61 Devotion took 2nd Place Wahoo with Blake Shelton’s 34-pound ‘hoo. Top Dolphin went to the Viking 52 Code Blue with Mackenzie Park’s 23.6-pound fish.  Top Junior Angler was Brantley Adams, and Mary Katherine Adams was the 3rd Place Lady Angler. Aboard the Viking 68 Briar Patch, Brantley released three whites while Mary Katherine released a pair.

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