November 30, 2022

Monthly News - November 2022

-pic of the month- Pearl New Dealer in Hong Kong

Cranchi and Innovation With Mirka

The quality of the various surfaces found on board Cranchi yachts is universally recognised. Today, that quality is achieved by means of cutting-edge technological solutions, and developed with the greatest focus on social and environmental responsibility. Indeed, Cranchi Yachts has partnered with Mirka, a Finnish company that manufactures products and tools for sanding applications, with an approach that prioritises both efficiency and the well-being of employees.  Abranet® is one of the Mirka products that Cranchi uses in its manufacturing facilities: a revolutionary abrasive that improves sanding quality whilst preventing particles from being dispersed into the working environment. The finishes achieved are impeccable and free from defects, and the abrasive material maintains its effectiveness for longer. Furthermore, the dust does not disperse, ensuring that the quality of the working environment is safeguarded - a consideration that has always been essential to Cranchi Yachts.

Cranchi Grand Tour Australia

The Cranchi Grand Tour is heading to Melbourne. From the evening of 9 December and for the entire weekend, Terence Dean Boat Sales, the Cranchi Yachts dealer for the state of Victoria in Australia, will open the doors of its facility in the Docklands District to visitors - the perfect destination for those who love good food and good fun. In line with the inimitable format of the Cranchi Grand Tour, the event will be both a party and a small private boat show, during which guests will be able to catch a glimpse of the M44 HT and the Z35.

Cranchi and Metropol Spain 

The decision taken by Cranchi thirty years ago to establish an international dealer network, in order to open up new markets for the brand and its products, was certainly an innovative one.  In the intervening years, the Cranchi sales network has grown and developed, whilst upholding the core principles on which it has always been founded: the professionalism and dependability of the selected dealers, the quality of their facilities, and the excellence of the services they offer. The dealers who work with Cranchi Yachts share a number of attributes with the shipyard, not least the same understanding of the business as a means of creating value for the companies and customers alike.  With such solid foundations, it is no surprise that the relationship between Cranchi Yachts and its dealers has lasted so well over time for some cases, even for decades. This is the case, for example, of Metropol Náuticas, which has represented Cranchi Yachts for many years in Spain: with numerous offices on the coast and on the islands, it serves as a true point of reference for sales, assistance and after-sales services within the nautical sector.


Fairline Launches Career Website

British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline has launched fairlinecareers.com, a new careers website to improve the recruitment process for candidates wishing to join the Oundle based business.  Jane Gadsby, HR and services director at Fairline, said: “We wanted to streamline and improve the candidate experience, whilst ensuring people could submit speculative applications to be considered for positions that may arise in the future. With an ambitious growth plan, planned new product investment and an ageing workforce, it was important to develop a dedicated careers site where we could outline all the opportunities and benefits of joining Fairline to recruit a new generation into boat building. With the addition of sharing employee and careers news, applicants can get a real sense of what life working at Fairline is like.”  The website’s applicant tracking system (ATS) manages the process between job offer and joining the business, seamlessly moving candidates through the hiring process, ensuring regular communication, important dates and pre-hiring processes are complete.  “It also automates responses to candidates to ensure they are always informed about the status of their application, something which was previously a challenge with the number of active job roles and applications. The ATS also gives us the opportunity to internally share CVs with hiring managers, a process which was previously manual,” said Jane.  Following successful boat shows at Cannes, Southampton and Fort Lauderdale, Fairline’s in-house design team is finalising details of the next phase of the product plan and as reported at Southampton International Boat Show, the company is on schedule to deliver 60 percent more boats than 2021. Brand new product launching in 2023 includes the all-new Targa 40 and Squadron 58. The year ahead is buoyed by a strong forward order book with orders valued at £125 million.  Jane continued: “The ATS will help us manage the next intake of apprentices in 2023; our 2022 intake started in August and so far the programme has been extremely popular and successful. With Fairline’s long-term business plan of introducing new products, an increase in its production and boat builder staff will be required as well as an increase in the number of office-based staff to support the growth. The next two years will be pivotal for Fairline and building a skilled, high-performing and passionate workforce to support the growth and deliver our ambition plans is a priority.”  Supporting its plans to increase production capacity, Fairline has invested in expanding its manufacturing footprint in key facilities. In the last 12 months there have been some significant new dealership appointments including Florida, New York, Quebec, Queensland, Mallorca and Denmark, assisting in driving sales and supporting its valued customers.


Fairline New South Germany Dealer

British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline has announced HL Schiffstechnik as its new dealer for south Germany as it continues to grow its network of dealers worldwide. HL Schiffstechnik joins the Fairline global roster of dealers - chosen for its excellent reputation for sales and outstanding customer service. The dealer started in 1985 as a two-man boat engine repair shop in a fuel station and today boasts more than 30 employees offering customers the complete service for their boat. To be known as Fairline South Germany, HL Schiffstechnik operates out of a specialist workshop in Kressbronn-Gohren on Lake Constance and offers a one-stop shop with a state of the art infrastructure and many years of experience in the maintenance and repair of motor and sailing boats. Fairline South Germany is headed up by managing director Daniel Rück who said: “As a new Fairline dealer, we’re proud to not only represent, but to also establish the great Fairline brand in the south of Germany. As specialists in the luxury boat sector, it was natural for us to bring the Fairline brand to our region and be able to offer it to our customers. “With our highly-skilled engineers and our strong sales team, we are in the best position to start our new journey with Fairline.” James Powell, sales director at Fairline said: “We’re delighted to welcome the HL Schiffstechnik team to the Fairline family. We are confident it is the best choice to expand our reach in Southern Germany and look forward to seeing many more Fairline owners enjoying the excellent cruising on offer in the region.”


Maritimo Model Maker

Building boats takes time, precision, and passion. Making models of them is no different, and due to the size of it, possibly even more intricate. Former Maritimo employee Chris Clark must have all of these qualities in spades, for the model of the Maritimo 550 Offshore Motor Yacht took him a whole three years of his spare time. Weekends and afternoons got consumed with the project, and it wasn’t like he had no idea what to expect, either. Previously, Clark had built five models for different people over the years, and had also completed a tall ship in kit form that now shares pride of place on his mantelpiece with the Maritimo.   Clark commenced with Maritimo back in 2005, and was involved in the build of the first two of the 550 series, before they went up to Cairns to take potential clients out fishing for marlin. What really sealed his adoration of the boat was when the tuna tower was fitted to the top of the first one. It was right then that he decided he would have a go at making a model of it.  Before joining Maritimo in 2005, Clark had run his own business in Northern NSW, looking after 33 schools. He says of the change to Maritimo, “I always enjoy a challenge, and that certainly was the case. Three weeks after joining I was made Head Electrician. I’d never worked on a boat in my life, electrically, so that was certainly pleasing. The other upside was changing over from working out of a truck and carting gear everywhere, to just walking along the catwalk straight onto the back of the boat and then back off. I didn’t have far to go, and I really enjoyed that.”  Certainly pleased with his advancement, the other benefit he found was that he no longer had to work out of a truck and carting gear everywhere. At the factory, he didn’t have far to go; just walking along the catwalk straight onto the back of the boat, and then back off again.  Tapping into his desire for a challenge, at Maritimo, Clark got to be involved with all the ins and outs of the boat. From engineering and plumbing to fit out one and fit out two, there he was. Of course, years later when he was taking the model on, all of these skills would pay dividends.  Clark’s time at Maritimo started with the eighth boat they ever built, and went all they way up to hull #43 of that series. The 52-footers followed, then the 48s, and the 55s, including the one that got him so inspired. He also did a lot of special work at the Hope Island facility completing aftermarket projects. One of his final projects before finishing in 2013 was the floating pontoon that is used at the boat shows and other events.  Approximately 1:22 scale, and measuring 760mm long, 300mm high, and 210mm wide, this is a substantial model, but it is the accuracy of scale, attention to detail, and finishing touches that could well be the crowning moment for this model. Making moulds was new for new for him, as he went about creating the model in that same way as the boats themselves. He says it might have been a ‘bit painful’, and after nine months just building the deck, he was only focussing on the fact that he had to see it through.  The flying bridge would be another five months, with the hard top another two months on top of that, and quickly you can see why the entire project spanned three years.  “Getting it to scale was probably the most challenging aspect, along with working out how I was going to join it all together. The bow rails were the next most difficult element, with deciding to make it remote control after the fact coming in after them”, said Clark.  Propellers and shafts may have come from an RC component company, but skegs, and all the fittings for the steering were done by hand. Obviously when you look at the pictures you can see that the main saloon and enclosed bridge are completely kitted out, and even the navigation lights work.  “Definitely the interiors are fiddly work, but with the help of the General Arrangements (plans) I was able to work it all out. Those and a lot of photos taken as we worked on the boats really helped me to complete the project.”  Continuing on with his desire for challenge, Clark is now a project supervisor at a commercial nursery, but remembers his time at Maritimo both fondly and distinctly. His memories won’t be leaving him any time soon, and he’s always got that reminder in his house.  As for more models, Clark says, “Five years ago we had a young boy, so my time’s pretty well spent, occupied with other activities. There are other projects and my new job, so I’m pretty busy. I still have the moulds for the 550 Offshore Motor Yacht, but because it took me so long, my wife was a bit upset with me. She said if I actually sold it, she’d let me build another one.” That obviously did not happen, but a commission now might change things.

Maritimo New Director of Business Development

Leading Australian luxury motor yacht manufacturer, Maritimo, continues to thrive in a record sales period, driven by new model launches and introductions. In order to help manage this growth and ensure Maritimo continues to deliver a best-in-class experience for its clients, the company announced that industry veteran Bill Michel has joined its senior management team as the Director of Business Development—Americas. Bill will leverage his vast international marine industry experience to complement Maritimo Americas seasoned team across multiple areas, including dealer and sales development, customer service, and marketing. He is based in South Florida and will travel throughout the Americas to engage with Maritimo’s sales teams and customer base.  "Maritimo is in a period of unprecedented growth,” says Dave Northrop, Maritimo President of the Americas. “Having someone of Bill’s caliber and background to help lead us into the future and help manage our continued anticipated growth is a key element to our long-term initiatives.”  Prior to joining Maritimo, Bill was the Managing Director of SureShade and New Product Development for Lippert; owner of TaylorMade Systems, Lewmar, and SureShade. . While there, Bill oversaw the day-to-day operations and was responsible for the strategic planning of marine products. His international business skills were sharpened while working for nearly 24 years at Uflex USA, a division of the Italian based Ultraflex Group. As Vice President/Managing Director, Bill was responsible for all facets of Uflex USA’s domestic business including sales, manufacturing, marketing, and distribution. All of these key areas will serve him well in his new role at Maritimo.  “I’ve followed Maritimo’s success for years and enjoyed a prior working relationship with Dave Northrop,” says Bill. “To be able to join this team and company at such an exciting time is truly a wonderful opportunity. During the past few months, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all our wonderful owners as well and look forward to meeting them all!”


MJM Expands in New Jersey

MJM welcomes Comstock Yacht Sales & Marina as our new sales and service partner for the state of New Jersey. "With an outstanding reputation and phenomenal facilities, the addition of Comstock to our dealer network is a huge win for our current MJM owners and soon to be MJM owners," said Peter Johnstone, 2nd Gen Chairman of MJM Yachts.  "We are so excited to be named New Jersey's dealer for MJM Yachts. Since 1973 our family has become accustomed to retailing quality manufactured boats here at Comstock. MJM is another fine example of a “perfect craft” and great addition for the waterways here in New Jersey" said Chip Gahr, President.


Pearl Yachts New Dealer in Hong Kong

Pearl Yachts has reached an agreement with VP Yachts to represent the British brand in Hong Kong. This latest step in the expansion of Pearl’s dealer network sees a first dealership into Asia, in the legendary yachting city, Hong Kong. Following the premiere of the Pearl 72 at FLIBS, Pearl Yachts has marked another important milestone with the announcement of a new partnership. VP Yachts, based in Hong Kong and directed by Vivian Chan, is the newest Pearl Dealer. She has opened a window for the brand into the far east, through the most strategic city, and with the support of a boating dynasty. In addition to their professional, yet modern approach, VP Yachts stood out for their impressive shipyard, located centrally in Hong Kong main harbor. Vivian Chan, also General Manager of her family’s Sun Hing Shipyard, said, “The cultural bond we share is undeniable. The style of Pearl Yachts’ instantly recognizable flybridges fits perfectly with the tastes in our local market with British allure and a neutral, sober color palette a winning proposal to our market. VP Yachts is positioned to leverage generational connections in local yachting that go beyond even my lifetime involvement through the family business, so we are excited to see the heights we can reach together.” Pearl Managing Director Iain Smallridge stated, “We always celebrate growth and new friends, especially in affluent and interesting markets, but to see our British brand now properly entering Hong Kong, uniting two seafaring cultures with shared history in a venture is a source of special satisfaction. VP Yachts have just what Pearl needs to succeed in a competitive market, with an educated, international approach to growth. Vivian, being a Managing Director of a shipyard herself, having proven her competence in my very position, gives me full confidence that she understands not only her side, but ours as well – which is invaluable in this partnership.”


Riva Celebrates Classic Motorboats and Cars at Milan

Anyone who owns one knows full well that every boat built by Riva, whatever its size, is a symbol of performance, craftsmanship, style and exclusiveness, forever imprinted with the brand’s legendary spirit.  That’s why in 1957 Carlo Riva created RAM - Revisione Assistenza Motoscafi, the first Riva boat service established next to the brand’s Sarnico yard, aiming to offer Riva owners assistance whenever they need it, and to restore motorboats using Riva’s original and unique techniques, materials and know-how.  Over the years, RAM Riva Classiche has become the international benchmark for maintaining both mahogany and fibreglass Riva boats from 6 to 13 metres in length, as well as offering storage and mooring plus a restoration service to return motorboats to their original glory, while leaving their Riva soul and the value of their craftsmanship intact.  The care and attention they lavish on their motorboat is a characteristic that classic boat owners share with vintage car lovers: original details and finishes are what make classic boats and cars unique, and their preservation is part of the emotion aroused by owning such a precious object, an emotion that only a true enthusiast can understand.  Milano AutoClassica, the Classic and Sports Car Show held in Milan from November 18 to 20, has always attracted enthusiasts and collectors with an extensive exhibition of models that have contributed to writing automotive history. This year, RAM Riva Classiche will be attending the high-profile show with a stand showcasing three emblematic Rivas: a Corsaro, the first series-produced wooden hull, an Ariston, the iconic model launched in 1950 of which 1,012 were built in a production run spanning 26 years, and an Aquarama, the legendary boat that this year celebrates 60 years since its creation in 1962. A Riva Lounge will also be set up inside the stand and furnished with items that reflect the unique and timeless maritime style that is a feature of the boats’ interiors. Visitors to the RAM Riva Classiche stand will also be able to purchase the exclusive products on offer in the Riva Boutique: design objects, clothing, accessories and furnishings inspired by the world of yachting. They include “Riva Aquarama”, the book published by Assouline celebrating 60 years since the launch of Riva’s iconic runabout.


Riviera International Apprentice Training Award

Australia’s luxury motor yacht builder, Riviera, has again been internationally recognised for its training program, jointly winning the "Best Apprenticeship or Training Scheme" category at the prestigious annual world Boat Builder Awards held in the Amsterdam National Maritime Museum in the Netherlands this week.  IBI Editor and chair of Boat Builder Awards judging panel Ed Slack announced that Riviera Australia and Sunseeker International jointly were awarded "for their long-standing nurturing of apprentices and graduates, contributing greatly to the skilled workforces of their companies and regions.  "Our congratulations to everyone who entered and especially to those who were honoured this evening,” said Mr Slack.  Riviera has operated an apprentice training program since 1993. In that first year, eight young Australians took up apprenticeships. Today 101 young apprentices at varying stages of training, work at the company's 16-hectare site in south-east Queensland. Alongside more than 800 highly experienced craftspeople, working together to create over 150 yachts a year, ranging in length from 39 to 78 feet, more than 60 percent of which are delivered to international markets.  Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said: "Our team is honoured with this international recognition of our commitment to training and mentoring the future master craftspeople of our industry.  "The success of Riviera's apprenticeship program has been recognised with many awards over three decades," he said. "The vast majority of apprentices who have graduated at Riviera have continued their careers with the company, affirming Riviera as an employer of choice. Today these young people are vital members of our team helping to meet the global demand for luxury Riviera motor yachts."  Riviera partners with Technical and Further Education (TAFE) and Plastic and Rubber Technical Education Centre (PARTEC) organisations to facilitate technical learning during which the apprentices undertake classroom studies over three of the four years of their formal further education and training.  Riviera’s apprentices are mentored by the largest group of marine craftspeople in Australia who are part of the 900-strong Riviera team creating motor yachts that instil a real sense of confidence, safety and luxury and are built to last.  Over the past 20 years, Riviera has enhanced its award-winning apprenticeship training with its exclusive Propel program which is designed to help apprentices develop life skills that can guide them on the path to professional and personal success.  Riviera has been building luxury motor yachts since 1980, launching more than 5,800 yachts in that time. 


Sunseeker Investment in People Recognized

Sunseeker is proud to have won the Metstade Boat Builder Award for ‘Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme’. The awards seek to celebrate outstanding achievements across key areas of the global marine industry. The Sunseeker early careers programme received the accolade for its exceptional offering to individuals wishing to enter the maritime manufacturing sector and the multiple progression and advancement opportunities it provides.  Sian Dodds, HR Director at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are incredibly proud to have won ‘Best Apprenticeship and Training Scheme’ at METSTRADE this year. With over 170 apprentices and graduates currently in training with us, our long-standing commitment to investment in people provides the opportunity to develop a well-rounded and successful career in the maritime sector. Our training programmes have proven to produce some of the best talent in the industry. They are our future leaders and technical experts, paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable marine industry. We are delighted to have received recognition from an international panel of judges, and whilst we continue to receive awards for our tremendous training schemes, significant challenges remain in the industry. We are proud to continue our investment in new training schemes.”  Using the United Kingdom’s Apprenticeship Standards, Sunseeker recruits apprentices onto a four-year training programme which delivers c.1,250 training hours at a specialist Marina Training Centre at Bournemouth and Poole College. Each apprentice is paired with a highly qualified mentor in their chosen trade, completing c. 6,000 hours of practical training.  There is a choice of four technical pathways: Composites, Carpentry and Joinery, Marine Mechanical Engineering, and Marine Electrical Engineering. Apprentices move through the various production stages of boat building over four years, culminating in a new independent end-point assessment with the membership organisation for the leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry, British Marine.  The graduate scheme has been a revelation for Sunseeker. Working with functional leaders across the company to develop job roles for academically educated talent has produced a new stream of innovative free thinking. Students are offered a two or three-year programme in a hands-on position whilst providing access to training, development and membership with relevant professional bodies aligned to UK SPEC and other registered membership organisations in Production, Accountancy, IT and Marketing. Graduates typically earn real-world experience delivering projects that affect the bottom line.  Both of these people investments have set the benchmark for most large organisations. Sunseeker offers unmatched career progression opportunities to the incumbents of the early careers scheme. Whether progressing to a team on the water or taking responsibility for the leadership of people, Sunseeker truly believes that nurturing a growing workforce is the best place to source talented leaders and industry superstars of the future.

Sunseeker Win Innovative Marketing at National Engage Awards 2022

The 'Sunseeker Famous Five' campaign, pioneered by the Sunseeker International in-house marketing department, has won the 'Best Use of Innovation in Customer Engagement' at the Engage Awards 2022. The Engage Awards is one of the country’s most prestigious customer and employee engagement awards, celebrating excellence across various industries nationwide. The British boatbuilder was up against some of the UK’s biggest brands, including Boots, Orange, Coutts and Trailfinders among the ten shortlisted nominees. Bryan Jones, Marketing Manager at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are incredibly proud to win this prestigious marketing award. The team has worked very hard to develop engaging customer-centric campaigns that drive sales and deliver real value to our customers. The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ launch will forever be iconic for our company, not just because we changed how we approached the power of digital, but how we could then convert the subsequent interest via the dedicated Showcase customer experience. It has been game-changing. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved and what’s to come for our brand.”  The 22 independent judges unanimously agreed: “Great innovation to move from a non-digital experience to one which is incredibly engaging and of a quality you would expect for a product of such high value. An extraordinary product that has succeeded remarkably in its chosen aims during the most difficult times but making a virtue of the problems and producing a sensational range of boats that vividly capture the imagination without having to actually occupy the captain's seat! A great initiative from a small marketing team.”  Best Use of Innovation in Customer Engagement – The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ Campaign.  Innovation is inherent in Sunseeker’s brand DNA, not just in the design of its yachts, but in every facet of the company. Sales and marketing innovations are important for the brand and the marketing team consistently works hard to innovate and nurture sales opportunities on behalf of its c.100 appointed dealers globally, across more than 60 countries. Most of the brand’s sales take place at global boat shows and events where customers are invited to experience and purchase the yachts in a VIP setting.  With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the company lost its sales platform overnight with all international boat shows and events cancelled. This was a huge challenge for the company during a year when it was due to launch five brand-new yachts, ranging in price from c.£1m to £6.5m (exc tax), a first in the company’s history.  To overcome these challenges, and in a completely new move for the company, Sunseeker International launched the ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ in a livestream event on the Sunseeker YouTube channel and Facebook page on 14 May 2021, to the world’s media, its appointed dealers and its customers. The team also supported a dedicated luxury ‘Sunseeker Showcase’ to invite customers to personally view its yachts and enjoy the ultimate sales experience at the company’s headquarters in Poole.  The ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’ digital launch was completely innovative in the leisure marine sector where digital marketing has had a slower uptake in comparison to other sectors, such as automotive. Sunseeker’s in-house Marketing team had a clear vision to be the first yacht brand to launch five new models to market at the same time and generate sales enquiries using predominately digital marketing platforms. It was a bold move that saw the team create digital assets and video content for each model, as well as the collective ‘Sunseeker Famous Five’. The team collaborated with a well-known friend of the brand, actor Hugh Bonneville, to anchor the campaign; an alignment that would generate additional sales interest and credibility for the brand.


Viking Hands On Education

Viking President and CEO Pat Healey kicked off an Apprenticeship Summit at the company’s New Gretna, New Jersey, manufacturing plant. The Summit included local, state and federal officials (including Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Labor Robert Asaro-Angelo) – all celebrating National Apprenticeship Week and Viking’s commitment to the program. “We are a proud New Jersey manufacturer and have tremendous relationships with our community,” said Pat. Executive Vice President Drew Davala first brought apprenticeships to Viking in 1988. “Viking values our alliance with the Egg Harbor Township school district and the ability to nurture students to embrace trade skills,” said Drew. “College isn’t for everyone, and we are providing an opportunity for students to not only learn but gain hands-on skills and confidence – and a career after graduation.” Viking currently has five students working at the New Gretna facility through the apprenticeship program.

Viking 2023 VIP Show

Mark your calendar to visit the industry-leading fleet at the Vikingr exclusive VIP Preview at the Viking Yacht Service Center in Riviera Beach, Florida. The Viking two new flagships the Viking 90 and Valhalla 55 will take center stage at the two-day event that takes place Friday, February 3, and Saturday, February 4, 2023. Sea trials will be available for select models.

November 29, 2022

Kenneth Charles Stock 1938 - 2022

It is with a heavy heart that Cruisers Yachts has announced the death of its long-time owner Kenneth Charles Stock, who passed away on November 28, 2022. Born April 6, 1938 in Oconto, Wisconsin. K.C. from a young age had a knack as an entrepreneur. He quickly progressed in business to buy his first company, a contractor yard, in 1971 and renamed it Stock Lumber, growing it to 11 yards across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Following his passion for the lumber business and the entrepreneurial spirit, he bought his hometown boat company, Cruisers Yachts. Growing up in Oconto, it was important to K.C. that the town continued to thrive and that meant keeping jobs local. He invested in the company and the Oconto community to see it flourish. Mark Pedersen, President of Cruisers Yachts, said. With K.C.’s support for over 28 years, Cruisers Yachts has enjoyed tremendous growth and is now known as one of the world’s premier manufacturers of premium yachts ranging from 33 to 60 feet. Named after his father, the Cantius series was born with the launch of the 48 Cantius in 2011. Since then, ten models, including the largest in the line-up, the 60 Cantius, have been badged with his father’s name. In 2019, Cruisers Yachts unveiled the Grand Luxury Sport series, which happens to be the initials of his loving wife Georgia. The GLS series comprises of four models, ranging from 34 to 50 feet. Wanting to continue the company’s growth, KCS International, Inc., parent company of Cruisers Yachts, significantly expanded its manufacturing and production capacity with the acquisition of the nearby Pulaski, Wisconsin facility that formerly built Carver and Marquis brand yachts. Shortly after, K.C. was looking for a new successor that would keep Cruisers Yachts rooted in Wisconsin. In May of 2021, K.C. sold the company to MarineMax, Inc., the world’s largest recreational boat and yacht retailer with the promise to keep Cruisers Yachts, the employees, and the community thriving.  K.C. always believed in giving back to the community. One of his greatest achievements was starting the K.C. Stock Foundation to help those in need. He took great pride in making a positive difference in other people’s lives. His foundation made the lead gift to start the Children’s Hospital in North-eastern Wisconsin at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay. He would encourage others to donate to one of his favourite charities, the HSHS St. Vincent’s Foundation that provides Christmas presents to all the children in the Paediatric Oncology Unit. K.C. loved to do this and bring families a bit of joy and happiness during the holiday season.

New Model: Jet Tern Selene 72 Ocean Explorer

Jet Tern presents the new Selence 72 Ocean Explorer coming from Howard Chen long standing collaboration with Dutch designer Guido de Groot. With this the 72 Ocean Explorer profile was drafted to fit the qualities of a Selene classic ocean yacht but with softer lines and a different interior decoration that attract European owners. James Fwu a renowned naval architect of Taiwan joined this international team for the hull lines, hydrostatics data, structural design, stability calculations, dynamics performance and final “EU Type Examination Certificate” with RINA. The Selene 72 Ocean Explorer comes with a length overall of just over 23 meters, a displacement of 72 Tons and equipped with two Cummins 405hp engines reaches a cruising speed of nine knots, and a max of eleven. What is catching eyes is the elegant combination of modern styling and the line of a reassuring ocean going vessel. It shows a number of the Selene family traits with her powerful raised pilothouse, Portuguese bridge, wide upper deck, and side-deck walk-arounds which provide safety and convenience for passengers of all ages. But a new approach is also visible in the addition of the large side windows in the hull and the curvy and sleek lines of the flying bridge.  The Selene 72 Ocean Explorer exterior elegance extends to the beautiful light-filled interior in the climate-controlled salon offers high-end comfort with a surrounding view of nature while cruising or at anchor. The lower deck of the Selene 72 Ocean Explorer has three or four guest cabins, a luxurious full-beam owner’s cabin and a crew’s quarters with two cabins and private head which is connected to a very large swimming platform, which can be equipped with a hydraulic Tender-lift.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 23.09 m (75.9ft)
Waterline Length - 20.3 m
Beam - 5.92 m
Draft - 1.98 m
Displacement - 72 t
Fuel Capacity - 11,355 l
Water Capacity - 2649 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, or eight berths in four cabins, two/three crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Cummins QSL9 405hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Project - Guide de Groot exterior, James Fwu naval architect

November 28, 2022

Project: Sea Ray Sundancer 370 Inboard

Sea Ray present the project for a new Inboard version for its Sundancer 370 model, which debuted in early 2021.  The Sea Ray Sundancer 370 Inboard differentiates from the Outboard version aft, with a free uncluttered stern and extended bathing platform.  The new Sundancer 370 is an innovative hard top sport cruiser with a fully usable deck from fore to aft, offering exterior spaces associated to those of a centre console thanks to its exterior asymmetric design, which with its port passageway leads you forward to a relaxing fore deck area with sun-pad and opposite settee.  Down below the Sea Ray Sundancer 370 offers a two plus two accommodation with a galley to port side, and shower head to starboard in between the berths.  So far Sea Ray is not advising what type of engines the inboard stern drive version will have, with the 2021 Outboard version powered by twin or triple Mercury 300hp.

November 27, 2022

New Model: Lazzara UHV 87

Lazzara presents its new UHV 87 triple deck super yacht, smallest and first model of the the UHV range from the USA builder.  UHV means Ultra High Volume, and the Lazzara UHV 87 does not disappoint, having as reported by the builder the most gross tonnage volume in its 26 meter size.  Triple deck and a semi wide body, the Lazzara UHV 87 offers four suites; three guests on the lower deck, and a forward owners stateroom using most of the forward wide body part of the main deck.  The Lazzara UHV 87 offers two lounges, one on the main deck and a second on the upper deck.  The Lazzara UHV 87 is powered by Volvo 720hp or optional 1000hp engines.  Hull one is powered by the larger engines, reaching top speeds of sixteen knots and a cruise of twelve which gives a range up to 2000 nautical miles.
Technical Data:
LOA - 26.50 m (87ft)
Waterline Length - 23.6 m
Beam - 7.20 m
Draft - 1.75 m
Displacement - 125 t half load, 200 GT *volume
Fuel Capacity - 11,500 l
Water Capacity - 2,000 l
Accommodation - eight guests in four cabins, three/four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x D11 720hp, D13 1000hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - sixteen knots max, twelve knots cruise with Volvo 1000hp engines
Range - 2000 nm at twelve knots
Hull Shape - displacement
Project - inhouse by Lazzara *exterior and interior 

November 26, 2022

Classic Hatteras Yachts Hits Reef in Alcatraz

A classic sixteen meters Hatteras yacht hit the reef off Alcatraz island in San Francisco bay on the morning of Saturday 26 November at about 0955 hours.  The Hatteras had two people and three dogs onboard who where assisted and rescued by the the San Francisco Fire Department and US Coast Guard.  The impact left the yacht hard on the reefs with the owner working with the coast guard for recovery.  No one was injured in the accident. Once the most famous federal prison in the World, today Alcatraz island is a tourist attraction managed by the National Park Service.  
The Hatteras yacht in this accident is a 53 Yacht Fisherman series I produced from 1977 to 1981.  Based on the 53 Motor Yacht released in 1969, the Hatteras 53 Yacht Fisherman series I designed by Jack Hargrave offered an interior with two cabins, and or optional three double cabins, with an aft master cabin. The Hatteras 53 Yacht Fisherman series I was powered by twin Detroit's 450hp as standard with a top speed of about twenty knots. Due to demand Hatteras re-released a near identical 53 Yacht Fisherman series II in 1987 produced till 1990. 

Project: Wider Moonflower 72

Nauta Design and Wider are very pleased to announce the start of the construction of the Moonflower 72 project, an innovative superyacht equipped with latest generation of the Wider hybrid propulsion system, a trademark of the Italian yacht builder. In early 2021 Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta Design in Milan, and Marcello Maggi, who heads up W-Fin Sarl, the holding Company that owns 100% of Wider equity, met up and reciprocally updated their respective projects, constructions and outcoming plans for the future. Nauta was looking for a builder for a superyacht project in the 70 meter length range and attention turned to Wider as the proposed builder. The two veterans of the superyacht industry immediately saw eye to eye, and soon after the preliminary design package was shared with Wider. That led to an agreement between the client, Wider and Nauta which consisted in signing a Letter of Intent in early September 2021 and a contract in January 2022. The exterior styling reflects Nauta’s trademark preference for clean, uncluttered design without fussy or superfluous detailing. Visual lightness, seamless outdoor/indoor connections, predominantly horizontal lines and the extensive use of glass, highlight the balanced proportions, while the chamfered sheer line amidships adds a dynamic aspect to the displacement hull. An exterior highlight is ‘The Island’ feature patented by Nauta Design, an expandable aft deck/beach club with folding bulwark terraces that provides a single walkaround space allowing guests to move freely from one side of the yacht to the other, either from inside beach club or from the open aft deck. The Moonflower 72 will be equipped with the Wider hybrid propulsion system comprising two variable-speed generators of 1,860kW each and a sodium nickel battery bank of approximately 1MW. As usual for Wider, the use of the latest innovations and technologies to be in harmony with the sea and the environment played an important role in this project too. Considerable attention has been paid to the recovery of energy dispersed in the form of heat from the electrical propulsion system, as well as optimising the operation of the onboard amenities to increase efficiency and reduce consumption by using AI to automatically learn the habits of owner, guests and crew.

November 25, 2022

Vanquish Sinks in Miami River

A sixteen meter Vanquish sport yacht titled m/y Falcon with a captain and crew onboard sank in the Miami river just before 1400 hours of 25 November.  The causes of the incident are not reported.  Being on the Miami river which is one the most Vlogged areas in the World for boating we have Boat Zone giving a bit of previous history before the sinking, as Falcon is seen dropping six passengers near a construction locality in the area.  At this stage it is not understood if Falcon's captain is aware of some problems as this is just twenty minutes before the yacht sinks.  The incident is later reported and assisted by Miami Police Department and Miami Fire Rescue, possibly also because in the filmed videos the Vanquish yacht is still a semi-floating-sank wreck hazard moving around with the current in the Miami River.
The Vanquish in this accident is a VQ54.  Debuting in 2017 the Vanquish VQ54 is build in aluminium and comes from a Guido de Groot design, offered in one, two, or three cabin interiors, powered with Volvo 610 or 725hp with IPS pod drives, and or Man 800hp with surface drives.  The Vanquish VQ54 was replaced by the VQ58 in 2021.

Trawler Takes Out Dingle Marina

A French Trawler titled m/v The Bikain collided with a Dingle Marina pontoon in Farrannakilla South West Ireland, while going astern on the afternoon of Friday 25 November.  The Bikain apparently got stuck in reverse hitting the Dingle Marina pontoon and damaging half a dozen boats in the process including of which is a thirteen meter Botnia Targa.  This Botnia Targa traditional cruiser was totalled with the collision; partly sank, stern cut off, and capsized on its starboard side.  She is now unfortunately a salvage for parts.
The Botnia Targa in this accident is a 42 model, which the Finish boat builder produced from 2004 to 2008.  Botnia's flagship at launch the Targa 42 offers accommodation for four in two separate areas and was powered by twin Volvo 370hp with stern drives for top speeds up to 34 knots.  The Targa 42 evolved in the 44 model in 2007, with a renewed stern which gave a larger engine room and IPS propulsion option.

New Model: ISA Yachts Extra X99 Fast

Extra the different brand of ISA Yachts, has launched in Ancona the first unit of the new X99 Fast. The exterior styling of X99 Fast features decisive lines and dynamic solutions coming from the creative flair of Italian designer Francesco Guida. The Extra X99 Fast naval architecture is by Palumbo Superyachts. The cockpit layout is true to the DNA of Extra, with large convivial spaces integrated with the aft galley concealed behind a privacy glass partition operated by up/down mechanism. The 75 square metre outdoor area sloping down towards the sea is provided with collapsible balconies, lounge zone, sun loungers and an extendable table to comfortably accommodate twelve people. A dynamic and modern layout for an owner who loves conviviality and direct contact with nature. Extra X99 Fast can accommodate up to ten guests in four large cabins. ISA Yachts Extra X99 Fast has a planing hull with spray rail build of carbon fibre composite and is powered by two 2600hp MTU engines, each coupled to waterjets, that during the first sea trials pushed X99 Fast to a top speed of 37 knots. Even at maximum speed, X99 Fast ensures great stability and manoeuvrability alongside a soundless and extremely comfortable ambience below deck.
Technical Data:
LOA - 30.2 m (99ft)
Beam - 7.30 m
Draft - 1.40 m
Displacement - 100 t full load, 238 GT volume
Fuel Capacity - 10,500 l
Water Capacity - 2200 l
Accommodation - eight or ten guests in four cabins, four crew win two cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 16v M96L 2600hp, 3 x MTU 2600hp
Propulsion - water jet drives
Speed - 37 knots max 28 knots cruise, 43 knots estimated with 3 x MTU 2600hp
Hull Shape - planning with spray rail
Construction - fiberglass with carbon fiber
Project - Francesco Guida exterior, Luca Dini interior, Arnaboldi naval architect, Palumbo
Certification - RINA

November 24, 2022

Project: Van Den Hoven Voyager 71

Van Den Hoven present the project of the Voyager 71.  This project started from a clients requests, who wanted a 22 meter four cabins medium range explorer yacht, but after the final designs where finished decided to commission a bigger Voyager 80.  The Van Den Hoven Voyager 71 is made for an owner who wants a large yet compact yacht with limited crew as it offers the luxury and comfort of a superyacht but in a much easier to handle and versatile thanks to its 22 meter size. The Van Den Hoven Voyager 71 is to be entirely build in aluminium and will offer four double cabins lower deck, and an owners cabin located forward.  The main deck of the layout offered is an astern galley layout.  Crew accommodation is for two aft.  Obviously all this can change being the Voyager 71 build of aluminium and fully custom. Van Den Hoven did not specify any power set ups for the Voyager 71, but expect speeds just over the twenty knots mark as the smaller 61 model.

November 23, 2022

New Model: Zeelander 6

Zeelander present its new 6 model, an evolution and replacement of the 55 which was released in 2015 to a design of Van Oossanen. The Zeelander 6 most noticeable difference is the single part windshield  uncluttered by mullions, and the less usage of wood for example on the two rail.  Hull one of the Zeelander Six featured also a unique hull colour similar to the owners Ferrari Superfast 812.  Another difference from the 55 is that the Zeelander 6 is can be powered by twin Volvo up to 1000hp which give a top speed up to forty knots.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.95 m (55.7ft)
Beam - 4.95 m
Draft - 1.00 m exl drives
Displacement - 24 t dry
Fuel Capacity - 3300 l
Water Capacity - 750 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 725hp, D13 900hp, 1000hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives
Speed - forty knots max with Volvo 1000hp
Range - up to 500 nm at optimum cruise 
Project - Van Oossanen
Certification - CE B

November 22, 2022

Project: Absolute 52 Fly

Absolute present the project for a new 52 Fly, which follows the basis of design as launched by the 47 Fly model in 2019, followed by the 60 Fly in 2021, and the 56 Fly in 2022. The 2023 Absolute 52 Fly is the second generation 52 following a same launched model in 2013, with this new project being based on a completely new hull which is some twenty centimetres wider, and about sixty centimetres longer to the mark one. The Absolute 52 Fly follows all the latest concepts of the Italian builder, from a glass cockpit aft deck, to fore-deck lounge dinette, and the shear line drop which creates uninterrupted views from the interior of the main deck.  The interior of the second generation Absolute 52 Fly sees an astern galley main deck layout, with a lower deck offering three double cabins of which is a largest in the category owners stateroom forward, and a guest VIP suite at midships.  All of this comes without sacrificing a third guest cabin as even this comes with standard two in line berths.  The 52 Fly is to be powered by twin Volvo 600hp with IPS pod drives, Absolute propulsion of choice since 2007.  

November 21, 2022

New Model: Palmer Johnson PJ63 Sport

Palmer Johnson has launched its new very clean looking PJ63 Sport.  An inhouse design the PJ63 Sport marks a turn around for Palmer Johnson who has onwards from the nineties built mostly super yachts above 24 meters in size, with the change in that decade which is marked a switch from traditional looking yachts to avantgarde looking super sport yachts designed in most cases by the Italian Nuvolari-Lenard firm. The PJ 63 Sport offers an interior with two large guest cabins, with an owners stateroom at midships, a VIP suite forward, and a saloon galley in between. A crew cabin with one berth is located at midships in between the engine room and guest area. Palmer Johnson PJ63 features also an innovative mono-hull shape which has the added side sponsons aft.  Power comes from triple Volvo 440hp with IPS pod propulsion.  The first Palmer Johnson PJ63 Sport was delivered in July 2022 for what is a strictly build to order machine, with a build time of around eight months and cost of four million Euros.   
Technical Data:
LOA - 19.4 m (63.8ft)
Beam - 6.30 m
Draft - 1.25 m
Displacement - 13 t unloaded
Fuel Capacity - 2200 l
Water Capacity - 670 l
Max Persons - twelve
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins, one crew cabin berth
Engines - 3 x Volvo D6 440hp 
Propulsion - triple Volvo IPS600 forward looking dual propeller pod drives
Speed - 34 knots max, 22 knots cruise
Hull Shape - modified Vee with side sponsons
Construction - composite fiberglass with fully carbon fibre super structure
Project - Palmer Johnson inhouse
Certification - CE B

November 20, 2022

Azimut New Web Site

Largest private owned and World famous Italian builder Azimut Yachts presents its new website. Head quartered in Italy Turin, with other construction sites located in Viareggio, and Brazil, Azimut continues to make innovation in design of the yachts its priority. Founded by still the current owner in 1969 by Paolo Vitelli, it first started up as a sailing charter company, later on it became a yachts dealer agent, and 1975 marks the humble beginnings of Azimut the yacht builder with the AZ43 Bali, followed two years later by the 32 Targa. 1982 is the start of innovation with the launch of the 105 Failaka biggest fiberglass build of the time launched in Viareggio, with Azimut also acquiring Benetti in that same year. In 1987 Azimut challenges the Blue Riband with the Azimut Atlantic Challenger, a yacht designed with Pininfarina and Fiat navigation system.  In 1991 Azimut starts the frame less glass windows concept on its yachts, the first European builder with this innovation and second in the World following Carver.  In 2000 Azimut-Benetti Group becomes the World top builder of super yachts above 24 meters in size, a position the Italian yacht builder still holds 22 years later.  2003 marks the launch of the 68S marking at the time the return for Azimut to the Sports Yacht segment which today has a range from 60 up to 100 feet.  In 2009 Azimut presents the dual mode hull semi displacement with 74 Magellano which enters the shipyard in the Explorer yacht category in its own terms. Azimut current line up has five collections; Fly, S, Grande, Magellano, Verve, and Atlantis which start from twelve meters with the 42 Verve and go up to 38 meter Trideck totaling 23 models. Azimut's new website is available in Italian and English and takes you around with the following buttons; Yachts, Find a Dealer, News and Events, Company.  Azimut has also its social media pages; Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Linkedin with direct links located at the bottom of the page. 
Production History:
43 Bali 1976-81
AZ 32 Targa 1977-87 (197)
46 Bali 1978-84
AZ 40 Offshore 1981-82
60 Solar 1982-87
AZ 28 Sport 1982-89 (199)
AZ 38 Electron 1983-86
105 Failaka 1983-86 (4) *100 Failaka project
80 Florida Extended (1)
AZ 25 1986-88
AZ 35 1986-89 (110)
AZ 50 1987
83 Florida 1987 (1)
90 1987-89 (4)
115 Failaka 1988 (1)
71 Extended 1988 (1)
86 1988-91 (2)
86 Extended 1987-88 (2)
AZ 32 1988-91
AZ 37 1989-92 (112)
AZ 34 1989-92 (20)
AZ 38 Open 1989-92
90 Europa 1989-94 (7)
AZ 45 1990-91
110 1990 (1)
65 Pininfarina 1991-96
AZ Quarantatre 1991-98
96 Far East 1992 (1)
96 Europa 1992-94 (2)
AZ Quaranta 1992-98
AZ Trentasei 1993-98
96 Starlight 1993-94 (2)
78 Ultra 1993-2000 (16)  Stefano Righini era starts
AZ Cinquantaquattro 1993-97
118 California 1994 (1) project Penthhouse
90 Jumbo 1995 (1)
100 Jumbo 1995-05 (38)
AZ Cinquanta 1996-97 (200+-) includes 52
AZ QuarantaSei 1997-2003
70 Sea Jet 1997-2000
85 Ultimate 1998-2005 (45)
58 Full 98-2001
80 Carat 2000-07 (17)
52 98-2002 (200+-) includes AZ Cinquanta
AZ QuarantaDue 1998-2004
AZ TrentaNove 1999-05
68 Plus 2000-05 (100+-) includes Evolution
55 2001-04
62 2002-06 (300+-)
98 Leonardo 2002-10 (28)
68S 2003-2009
86S 2004-2011 (25)
46 Evolution 2003-08
42 Evolution 2004-08
116 2004-13 (28)
55 Evolution 2005-08
39 Evolution 2005-08
105 2005-13 (29)
40 2005
62S 2005-11
85 2005-09 (19)
68 Evolution 2006-09 (100+-) includes Plus
43 2006-09
43 S 2006-12
47 2007-09
103 SL 2007-13 (12)
58 2008-11
70 2008-14
95 2008-13 (14)
82 2008-12 (4)
53 2009-11
38 Flybridge 2009-10
72S 2009-13
100 Leonardo 2009-14 (5)
78 2009-11
40S 2009-12
88 Flybridge 2009-16 (10)
Magellano 74 2009-11
64 Flybridge 2010-15
48 2010-13
40 Flybridge 2011-14
45 Flybridge 2011-14
Magellano 50 2010-13 (50+-)
60 2011-17
62S Italia 2012-13 (120) includes standard 62S
Grande 100 2011-14 (6)
120SL 2011-14 (3)
55S 2012-17
84 Flybridge 2012-17 (12)
43 Magellano 2012-17
43 Magellano HT 2012-17
76 Magellano 2012-17
54 2012-17
Atlantis 50 2013-18 Atlantis becomes an Azimut line from a separate brand
80 Flybridge 2013-18 (19)
Magellano 53 2014-21
Grande 95 RPH 2014-16 (9)
50 Flybridge 2014-
77S 2014-20 (16)
Altantis 43 2014-20 (140)
42 Flybridge 2015-19
66 Magellano 2015-20
72 Flybridge 2015-23
66 Flybridge 2016-21
Grande 35 Metri 2017-21 (19)
Grande 30 Metri 2017-20 (12)
S7 2017-22 
Grande 27 Metri 2017- (68
60 Flybridge 2017-
83 Fly 2018- (18
Atlantis 51 2018-
55 Flybridge 2018-20
S6 2018-
Grande 25 Metri 2018-21 (20)
Grande 32 Metri 2018- (25
S8 2019- (29
78 Flybridge 2019- *76 Fly project Alberto Mancini era starts
Verve 47 2020-23 (78)
S10 Grande 2020- (10
S6 Sportfly 2021-
Magellano 25 Metri 2020- (17
Magellano 66 mk.ii 2021-
Grande Trideck 38m 2021- (18
53 Fly 2021-
Atlantis 45 2021-
Magellano 30 Metri 2021-
68 Fly 2022-
Grande 26M 2022- (20
Grande 36M 2022- (8
S7 (ii.am) 2022-
Magellano 60 2023-
Verve 48 2023-
Fly 72 2023-
Seadeck 6 2024-

November 19, 2022

Project: Majesty 160

Majesty present the project for the 160 designed by Italian designer Cristiano Gatto with naval architecture by Dutch Van Oosennen. The Majesty 160 will redefine the segment through its opulent and contemporary interiors, catering to the needs and requirements of customers through its exceptional design, architecture, and state-of-the-art engineering and technological features. Her opulent exteriors feature an incredibly expansive sun deck, infinity pool, a hybrid beach club, fold-down balconies, and a swim platform providing guests unprecedented ease of access to the water. Her smart layout can accommodate up to twelve guests across its seven lavish staterooms, and can also host a crew of up to nine members with five large crew cabins and private captain’s accommodation.  Majesty 160 is currently the largest offer in the Gulf Craft Dubai yacht builder offer, though she is not the largest build to date coming second to the highly publicized 175 it launched in 2021.  The 160 replaces the two units made 155 Majesty delivered in 2015 and 17.

November 18, 2022

Juan Sastre Bernat 1937 - 2022

On Thursday 17th November 2022, Mr. Juan Sastre Bernat, founder of Menorquin Yachts and a reference in the nautical world for Mernorca and the Spanish yacht building community, passed away. Coming from an auto dealership empire which he founded with his brother Jose in 1960, and at some point distributing six marques, Juan Sastre Bernat founded Astilleros Menorca and created his first range of cruisers inspired by the traditional llaüt of the island of Menorca. In 1997 Juan rebrands Astilleros Mernoca to Menorquin Yachts, a proposal that made its mark in an already consolidated market. Thanks to its success, the shipyard began its expansion in the nautical sector, becoming a competitor of major brands in the world market.  The Sastre family will sell Menorquin in 2006 to a private investment firm, with son Jose Luise founding Sasga Yachts in 2010.  Juan Sastre not only founded Menorquin Yachts, he was also a visionary who brought the traditional Menorcan fishing llaüt to the forefront and to the World nautical market. This new approach to the traditional boat, together with his sacrifice, dedication and brilliant entrepreneurship, have led to his boats being recognised in international markets, today with the Sasga Yachts brand name.  Juan Sastre Bernat was married Teresa Gardés Pons and they had three children: Basilio, José Luis and Juan Francisco.

Super Yacht Beaches in Doha Qatar

A 33 meter super yacht, titled m/y Lusail Queen ran aground on a sandy reef in Doha Qatar on the afternoon of Friday November eighteen.  The causes of the incident are not reported, but the yacht does look to have its anchor down, so it might be the yacht drifted while anchored.  Videos on social media show several persons onboard Lusail Queen working to mitigate the damage and organize a safe removal from the sandbar. 
M/y Lusail Queen previously named Rayyan 1 is a Gulf Craft Majesty 105 from 2013, powered by twin Cats 1924hp engines and offering guest accommodation for ten in five cabins.  Designed inhouse the Gulf Craft Majesty 105 was launched in 2012 and produced till 2017 with nine units delivered.  Lusail Queen was last sold this 2022 year.  The Majesty 105 was replaced by the 100 model in 2018.

New Model: Lynx Crossover 27

The Dutch shipyard, Lynx Yachts, has rounded off the first quarter of 2022 with a major announcement: the launch of its first 27.4-metre Crossover 27 superyacht, titled m/y Avontuur.  The first Lynx Crossover 27 hit the water on eighteen March, with this first unit of the series boasting numerous custom features in order to meet her American owner’s requirements. Crossover 27 design and layout maximises tender and toy storage to suit the needs of her outdoorsy and sporty owner, whilst still retaining her stylish superyacht appearance.  The super yachts initial layout from Lynx included four staterooms, comprising an owner’s cabin, a VIP cabin, and two twin cabins with the crew quarters located aft of the engine room. However, the owner of this first Crossover  27 opted to change this into three guest cabins and modified the crew quarters integrating into the guest space.  With the concept design and engineering taken care of in house, the vessel features exterior design from the drawing boards of the Dutch studio Bernd Weel, interiors by the French designer Franck Darnet and naval architecture by the Alkmaar-based studio Diana. Standout features on board the Crossover 27 include her large light-filled main deck saloon, a seventy-square-metre main deck which transforms easily into a spacious entertainment area once the toys launched.  The sundeck is equipped with a crane, and will house two Yamaha Wave-runners and two stand-up jet-skis. The lazaretto toy storage provides ample space for water sports equipment such as stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, canoes, scuba diving equipment and much more.  The Lynx Crossover 27 is powered by twin Cat 850hp engines reaching a maximum speed of fourteen knots, a cruise of twelve which an an impressive range of 1,800 nautical miles. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 27.40 m (89.9ft)
Waterline Length - 26.2 m
Beam - 7.10 m
Draft - 1.80 m full load
Displacement - 120 t full load, 140 GT *volume
Fuel Capacity - 15,300 l
Water Capacity - 2600 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, or eight berths in four cabins, four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Cats C12.9 850hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - fourteen knots max twelve knots cruise, ten knots long range
Range - 1800 nm at twelve knots, 3000 nm at ten knots
Construction - steel hull aluminium super structure
Project - Bernd Weel exterior, Frank Darnet interior, Diana naval architect
Certification - RINA pleasure Yacht Class C Mach Y hull unrestricted navigation

November 17, 2022

Sport Cruiser Explodes in Malta Marina

A nine meter sport cruiser exploded while in its berth at the Malta Creek Marina in Ta Xbiex, on Thursday November seventeen at about 1700 hours local time.  The nine meter sport cruiser was reported exploding during ignition of its petrol gas engines.  The quick intervention of the Creek Marina crew quickly controlled the fire generated from the explosion, with no injuries being reported, and zero damage to nearby boats. The Marina crew where later assisted by Malta's fire fighting crew with two fire engines, and an ambulance.
The sport cruiser in this small explosion is a Bavaria 29 Sport, produced by the German boat builder from 2003 up to 2007.  The unit which exploded is from 2006 powered by twin gas 225hp Volvo engines with stern drive propulsion. The Bavaria 29 Sport was replaced by the 30 Sport in mid 2007 with the new model extended in length and offering an aft deck with a mini sun-pad.

Project: Whitehaven 6100SY

Whitehaven range of signature sports yacht, presented its Sport Yacht range over a decade ago, and today the SY range is evolving again with the 6100SY project. The 6100 SY is the genesis of the Whitehaven range and this evolution is sure to surprise and delight. The first thing you will notice is the changes to the cockpit. A much-loved feature of the Whitehaven design, the cockpit on the 6100SY has seen serious upgrades to the seating which now is aft facing and converts into a day bed for additional flexibility in the space. The BBQ is now joined by an external galley station and overlooks the swim platform where you will find additional seating. In the interior, the galley is now full beam to easily service both the internal and external dining and lounge spaces. Larger architectural windows not only flood the interior with natural light yet also offer exceptional visibility from the helm. This 6100SY also sports the new fore deck seating arrangement, provided with sunbeds and seating, it is another space for family and friends to come together. Below deck there are three accommodation suites. The full beam owner’s cabin sits midships with a private ensuite. The guest suite is in the forepeak also with an ensuite and accessible as a day head from the main companion way. The final guest suite on the portside has twin beds and plenty of storage. Like all the Whitehaven the 6100SY is customisable to the individual specifications of the buyer and there is the option for the Euro edition upgrades. The Whitehaave 6100SY is to be powered by twin Volvo 1000hp with line shaft propulsion.

November 16, 2022

New Model: Fabbrica Italiana Motoscafi 470 Regina

Fabbrica Italiana Motosafi has launched its new 470 Regina at the end of Summer, presenting subsequently the product at the Cannes and Genova 2022 boat shows, which awarded the model as Best Revelation 2022, and four more orders.  Following on the foot steps of the 340 Regina, the 470 comes also from a design of Ferragni, and like the smaller sister is a mix of walk around features mixed to those of a cabin cruiser.  For this reason she is a bit unique in the market, but the 470 Regina does not stop there with modular layouts to both its aft and fore decks.  For example the foredeck of the 470 Regina transforms in three uses; sun-pad, two chaise lounge, and can also come with a small spa pool in between.  Below the Fabbrica Italiana Motoscafi 470 Regina shows again its flexible nature being available in two or three cabin versions, with both layouts offering a large full beam midships owners cabin.  The 470 Regina is powered by twin Volvo 480hp as standard or optional 600hp engines with IPS pod propulsion, with an outboard option of triple or quadruple Yamaha 425hp.  Hull one was powered by twin Volvo 600hp IPS combo reaching top speeds up to 39 knots.   
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.10 m (49.5ft)
Hull Length - 14 m
Beam - 4.40 m
Draft - 1.10 m
Displacement - 17,000 kg
Fuel Capacity - 2 x 770 l
Water Capacity - 330 l
Max Persons - sixteen
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins, or six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 480hp, D8 600hp, outboard petrol gas 3 or 4 x Yamaha 425hp
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS pod drives, or Yamaha outboards
Speed - 39 knots max
Project - Ferragni
Certification - CE B

November 15, 2022

Project: Estensi Targa 38 GT

Estensi present the project for the Targa 38 GT.  Designed as all Estensi by Zuccheri, the 38 GT launches the new Targa line which replaces the previous America range as the sports open line from the Italian boat builder, with the Targa offering classic traditional lines mixed with a modern super structure.  Unlike the America the first Targa takes the hull and similar lines from the down East inspired Goldstar range with the difference, at least for this first 38 GT of a Mediterrean central sun-pad open cockpit deck layout. It will be interesting if Estensi will follow this pattern with the other Goldstar models, which would see it in little time if the Italian builder wants with four additional models, considering that the tooling is nearly the same with the exception of the hard top section.  Down below the Estensi Targa 38 GT offers two layouts, that for two cabins, or an open plan layout with a large cabin and an L-shaped lounger.  The Estensi Targa 38 GT is powered by twin shaft line engines from 280 up to 400hp.