Monthly News - December 2022

-pic of the month- Maritimo Launch Sail Racing Division

Azimut-Benetti Group World Leading Super Yacht Manufacturer for 23rd Year

Azimut|Benetti Group earns the most important recognition in the nautical sector: first place in the annual ranking of Global Order Book 2023 by the authoritative magazine, Boat International. The Group's primacy among builders of yachts over 24 meters follows from 53 years of passion for boating. Over the years, the family business has succeeded in combining technological innovation, elegantly impactful design solutions and a longstanding commitment to reduce emissions. With 168 projects under construction, totaling 5,991 meters in length, Azimut|Benetti Group leads, for the 23rd time in a row, the annual ranking of the largest yacht builders known as the Global Order Book by Boat International. The British nautical magazine has been collecting and analyzing data on the superyacht market since 1992 to chronicle the scope of the sector, which has risen to global significance. The prestigious acknowledgment asserts Azimut|Benetti Group, active on 5 continents, as the world's leading manufacturer among the 189 shipyards, both in number of projects and total length. The gap between first and second place grew sharply over the past year, as the Italian company founded by Paolo Vitelli extended its order portfolio into 2027, recording a production value of more than 1.2 billion euros for the current year. The factors underlying the company’s lasting success are many, with their roots in a product strategy, a business model and an entrepreneurial vision that have stood the test of time, unmoved by market trends. Technological innovation is one of the pillars supporting the success of Azimut|Benetti Group, which plans to invest 130 million euros in R&D over the next 3 years. While the effort aims at the development of new products and the use of cutting-edge technologies, above all it has delivered significant results in terms of sustainability. A rapidly growing share of yachts produced by the Group guarantee a 20 to 30% reduction in fuel consumption, and therefore CO2 emissions, compared with equivalent shaft line models with hard-chine hulls. This result has been achieved by combining three key factors: the adoption of innovative propulsion systems including hybrid and electric; the development of increasingly efficient hulls, tailored to master the challenges of each model’s mission; and extensive use of carbon fiber to reduce weight. Azimut|Benetti Group owes its record-holding place, in part, to being a family-run business with a strong international vocation, together with other important aspects such as customer and marina services. The network, consisting of 80 dealers operating out of 138 sales and assistance offices all over the World, is built on an entrepreneurial culture of exceptional financial reliability. It’s essential, especially with regard to yachts with large volumes. The skills of the managers proved, once again, to add value as well. The presence of the second generation of the Vitelli family at the top of the company with Giovanna Vitelli as Vice President, and of Marco Valle as the CEO who boasts 25 years with Azimut|Benetti Group, in which he has covered numerous roles of great responsibility, exemplifies the company's culture of growth from within that promotes the development of assets to gain a competitive edge. Building the most beautiful, reliable, technological and innovative boat, and assisting her always and everywhere, is the mission of Azimut|Benetti Group, which has always remained faithful to its values over 53 years in business. Particular attention has always been paid to developing trusting, lasting and even multi-generational relationships with employees and suppliers, with the aim to increase the shipyard's production cycle by sharing the opportunities for growth and future development. Born of this entrepreneurial spirit, the Sea Your Future talent program, launched in 2022, has attracted the interest of more than 600 candidates from the best Italian and European universities with the chance to join an established international business that has recorded a 10% growth in new hires across all divisions.

Cheoy Lee Reports Strong 2022 and Expands Dealer Network

Following a fruitful year that saw the launch of two brand new models, CLX96 and CLB65, CL Yachts is backing up strong sales by expanding and strengthening its sales networks that are now global in coverage.  Over the past two years the production yacht builder, with headquarters in Hong Kong, has implemented a comprehensive expansion strategy in 2021 and 2022 to better focus sales activities in different international markets.  The all-important US market will continue to be managed by the CL Yachts Office in Fort Lauderdale (USA and Canada) and Rex Marine Center Inc. in Norwalk, Connecticut. Likewise the CL Yachts Office in Hong Kong will continue to oversee sales in Asia and Europe, and Silverstar Marine Australia in Western Australia.  Ms Carmen Lau, Senior Advisor of Camper & Nicholsons International was appointed as worldwide agent (excluding the US, South America and Canada) to manage sales of CLX96 flagship model designed by Jozeph Forakis. Through the partnership with Camper & Nicholsons International, CL Yachts is confident that it will be an assurance of quality, luxury and prestige for CLX96.  In response to growing enquiries from local regions, the company has made the following appointments:  Sydney Marine Brokerage in Sydney was appointed to manage sales in Australasia (excluding Western Australia).  Royal Yachting Middle East Boat Trading LLC, based in Dubai, now manages sales in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.  Premium Nautical Pte Ltd, based in Singapore, now manages sales in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.  Asia Boating Ltd, based in Hong Kong, now manages sales in Hong Kong and Macau.  "We are delighted to welcome our new partners in Asia Pacific and the Middle East as part of the CL Yachts sales network,” says Martin Lo, Director of CL Yachts. “Their vast experience and local knowledge is invaluable to support our growth in these highly competitive and dynamic markets. 2022 has been a milestone in the history of CL Yachts. We presented two innovative yachts at FLIBS: the award-winning CLX96 and the newest B-Series member CLB65. Now our growing worldwide sales network has set us on a new journey and our next move will be to meet increasing demand in Europe.” 

Cranchi Revamps Piantedo Headquarters

The Cranchi Yachts headquarters in Piantedo, Lombardy, has been revamped, with restructured spaces for welcoming and meeting guests. The materials and colour tones used in the rooms recreate the unmistakeable style of the interiors in Cranchi Yachts' two Flagship collection models, the Settantotto 78 ft and the Sessantasette 67 ft.  The furnishing solutions from Flexform collections, a leading furniture brand and an Italian design and manufacturing icon, are another distinguishing feature of the spaces in the headquarters.  In the updated front desk area, christened Giotto, an atmosphere of contemporary class prevails, in which the attractive design of the Thomas armchairs and Guscio sofa give visitors a warm and intimate welcome. The new meeting rooms, Canova and Leonardo, also reflect the contemporary character and quality of Cranchi's brand of Italian design and manufacturing thanks to the rooms' Flexform furnishings, which feature the unmistakeable style of the Feel Good armchairs and tables from the Fly collection, recreating the interiors of Cranchi Yachts' flybridge range.  The collaboration between Cranchi Yachts and Flexform began with the freestanding furnishings selected by Christian Grande to fit out the first units of the Cranchi Settantotto 78 ft and the Cranchi Sessantasette 67 ft. The collaboration will now continue on a project to design new stands to present the Shipyard at upcoming boat shows. Starting with the events at Düsseldorf and Miami and continuing into subsequent international boat shows, Cranchi Yachts' exhibition spaces will be furnished with armchairs, tables and accessories from the Flexform collections.

CRN Wins Gold Trophy 2022

For the second year running, CRN, the historic shipyard and Ferretti Group brand specialising in designing and building fully custom yachts, has won the Gold Trophy at the World Luxury Award in the Cars and Yachts category.  Held in Monte Carlo, the World Luxury Award event is an independent forum set up to recognise creative excellence in the advertising, design and multimedia arenas, focusing on the major players in international luxury.  In this year’s edition, CRN emerged victorious for its winning social-media strategy and integrated international campaign during the prestigious Monaco Yacht Show, where the new fully bespoke nautical work of art that is the CRN 62m M/Y Rio received her world première.  This major award acknowledges the innovative approach and the creative originality of the storytelling devised and produced by Arachno Digital Agency on CRN’s Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube and LinkedIn profiles.  These social-media accounts ably documented CRN’s presence at the all-important boat show using a high-impact visual language with augmented-reality elements. The online coverage expressed CRN’s enduring values and identity – from its superlative Italian craftsmanship and its supreme design and build quality to its fully tailored flair – with a consistent and distinctive tone of voice.  These are the keys to a social-media strategy that has created tremendous engagement and empathy. The content plan not only featured images, video and reels but also introduced a special Instagram filter for users to personalise their stories with an original graphic design inspired by the tropical concept that suffuses the CRN M/Y Rio interiors.  Leveraging a fresh new visual language, the evocative, engaging storytelling did ample justice to CRN’s triumphant journey at the Monaco Yacht Show. It spoke to the founding values of a brand that creates true-custom yachts in a perfect fusion of innovation, expertise and professionalism through the passion and dedication of its exceptional professional team.

Fairline New Dealer in Montenegro

S-Nautica has been announced by British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline as its new dealer for Montenegro, further adding to its network of dealers worldwide. Following the recent announcement of HL Schiffstechnik as its new dealer for south Germany, Fairline is further increasing its global roster of dealers and has chosen S-Nautica for its unique commitment to client relationships and excellent reputation for sales. To be known as Fairline Montenegro, S-Nautica was founded in 1995 and established a brand strongly dedicated to each individual customer and ensuring the process of purchasing a luxury vessel was second to none. It combines its expertise in sales, charter and management to offer the very best service in the key elements of yachting. Fairline Montenegro is led by Goran Stanisic together with Zoran Stanisic. Borko Rkman, who heads up sales at the dealer said: “S-Nautica is very focused on long-term thinking. We strive for long-lasting relationships with clients who return to us time and time again. These relationships are based on honesty and trust and we’re excited to bring Fairline into the business. We strongly believe in Fairline as a brand and as a family and look forward to bringing its yachts to our customers.” Fairline Montenegro will be showcasing the unrivalled products in the Fairline family which fall under four distinct ranges: the F//LINE, Targa, Phantom and Squadron. The F//LINE range offers the F//LINE 33 and F//LINE 33 Outboard, the Targa range includes six models from 45-65ft, the new Phantom 65 which made its world debut at Cannes in September and the three Squadron models from 50-68ft.

Feadship Custom Soundwaves

After a thorough selection process Feadship commissioned a few highly skilled producers to compose four custom audio tracks for four custom yachts. Each Feadship has a very distinct character, built up of many different traits; the composers rendered these traits into music, with the only requirement that the listener had to be able to dance to them. The result is a playlist of spectacular music that will surely rock your boat. Find the tracks on Feadship playlist on Spotify and have a look at the animations to discover the creative process behind the production. See how the unification of traditional with modern concepts in the design of Pure is represented by the combination of classical instruments with digital sounds. How the focus on light in the design of Slice is clearly audible and, for those who 'speak the lingo', the Morse code for the word 'slice' can be heard repeatedly. And is it clear that Callisto is a Mediterranean classic from the music? We think so. Named after a racehorse, sounds of the racetrack are in the background, with Bruno Martino-style chords at the forefront. In the same way, we can hear that Juice's 3.65 draft measurements are equal to the number of days in a year and all four seasons can be heard as the tune plays.

Feadship Between the Bays 

Feadship has teamed up with Boat International and Belmond, the luxury hospitality and leisure company, to launch Between the Bays, an exciting new addition to the 2023 yachting calendar aimed at superyacht owners. The event will take place in the Caribbean hotspots of Anguilla and Saint Martin between 9-12 March and is designed to encourage owners to come together to enjoy two of Belmond’s most exclusive properties: Cap Juluca in Anguilla and La Samanna in Saint Martin. As premium sponsor, Feadship is delighted to invite owners and their friends and family to the special launch edition of the event. Welcoming motor and sailing yachts from 24 metres and upwards, the unique event format will provide the opportunity for owners to make the most of their yachts in the company of like-minded peers. Attendees will be treated to a first-class programme of events, both on and off the water. Feadship looks forward to welcoming the world’s finest luxury yachts to celebrate the Caribbean season in style at the Between the Bays superyacht event.  

Ferretti Custom Line Launches Six Super Yachts in Two Months

Everyone wants Custom Line: works of contemporary marine art for cruising in the utmost comfort, with maximum reliability and safety. The latest six launches in less than two months bring the total to twenty Custom Line yachts completed this year at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona, testifying to the ever-growing appeal of a range that delivers an immersive seagoing experience.  The tenth Custom Line Navetta 30 unit touched the water at the end of October, showing off the yacht’s modern elegance and contemporary style. With a length of 28.42 m and a beam of 7.3 m, this icon of marine excellence caught the eye of a European owner. The naval architecture designed by Ferretti Group’s Strategic Product Committee and Engineering Department is a perfect combination of yachting tradition, design expertise and attention to detail. The interior design is by ACPV Architects Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and the exterior styling is by Filippo Salvetti.  November 10 saw the launch of the eighth Custom Line 120’ unit, a masterpiece in the brand’s planing line. With a distinctly sporty personality defined by sleek, powerful contours and contemporary style, this superyacht has exterior styling and interior decor by Francesco Paszkowski Design, working in partnership with Margherita Casprini and the Custom Line Atelier on the interiors. Created for the most demanding and dynamic owners, this superyacht offers the maximum in terms of speed, performance and an avant-garde design aesthetic. Custom Line Navetta 33 M/Y “Our Way”, the twenty-fifth unit built of this model, was launched on November 16 with the American owner in attendance. This luxury yacht is for lovers of long-distance cruises in maximum comfort, thanks to generous volumes and plenty of space extending across four decks. Based on a more traditional approach, the model highlights elegance, beauty and exclusiveness, so that cruising and life on board are a superlative and unforgettable experience.  Two weeks later, on November 30, M/Y “M Together” entered the water, the ninth Custom Line Navetta 42 unit, bought by a European owner. The yacht is the brand’s largest displacement model, a cutting-edge masterpiece in which engineering and design come together with impeccable style, breathing life into a model permeated by sophisticated elegance. The yacht’s four decks are characterized by plenty of space and volume, with interiors created for full customization according to the owner’s wishes and offering guests unrivalled cruising comfort.  The fifteenth superyacht in the planning line, Custom Line 106’ MY “My Mistake” was launched on December 13. Chosen by a European owner, the full power of this yacht is expressed by the pure lines and large spaces characterized by understated refinement. The minimalist design aesthetic permeates both interiors and exteriors, with interpenetrating surfaces in an architectural balance that breaks down boundaries and gives natural light a starring role to play.  Today sees the final launch of the year, which ends on a high note with the beautiful Custom Line Navetta 37 MY “Regina”. The fourteenth unit built of this superyacht, bought by an American owner, has a strong, one-of-a-kind personality that exerts a seductive force over the water. An engineering masterpiece, where volumes and cutting-edge technology are joined by sartorial attention to every detail, outstanding seaworthiness, and impeccable comfort in which to succumb to the spell cast by the infinite sea.  The success of Custom Line is unparalleled: the brand’s superyachts confirm their appeal for owners thanks to a mixture of unique and distinctive factors, the standouts being innovative onboard technology, excellent performance, and sophisticated design.  The high level of customization is the result of strategic contributions by the Custom Line Atelier, which supports the owner in every stage of the process and every decision, with the aim of creating the superyacht of their dreams.

Grand Banks Enter Sales and Purchase Agreement for Stuart Boat Yard

SGX Mainboard-listed Grand Banks Yachts said it has entered into a Sale and Purchase Agreement to acquire 458 SW Salerno Road, located in Stuart, Florida, USA, for US$1.9 million . The Proposed Acquisition will allow the Group to enlarge its footprint in the US, enhance service capabilities and generate new revenue streams. With a land size of approximately 1,208 sqm and a built-up area of 266 sqm, 458 SW Salerno Road has berthing for up to nine boats. The property is currently the residence of Mr Gregory Burdick and Ms Nancy Burdick the Sellers, and is directly opposite the Group’s Stuart yard, which serves as its USA Headquarters as well as a one-stop shop for customer enquiries, support, warranty requirements.

Jarrett Bay Tops North Carolina Billfish Series

Congratulations to multiple Jarrett Bay owners and crews for topping the North Carolina Billfish Series leaderboard for 2022! First Place Overall: Hull 26, Weldor's Ark. Third Place Overall: Hull 59, Builder's Choice. Top Dolphin: Hull 7, Developin' Habits. Top Junior Angler: Hull 26, Weldor's Ark. Second Place Lady Angler: Hull 56, Reel Quick

Maritimo Donates to Perry X Foundation

Maritimo charity partner donates $420k to Griffith University’s Spinal Injury Project.  With the support of generous donors, the Perry Cross Spinal Research Foundation has donated $420,000 to fund a second Rehabilitation Trial for Griffith University’s Spinal Injury Project (SIP)!  This is a crucial final step before researchers proceed to a ground-breaking human clinical trial.  This second Rehabilitation Trial will allow another five people with paralysis to complete an intensive 16-week training program at Gold Coast’s Making Strides.  While most participants in the first Intensive Rehabilitation Trial previously had considerable rehabilitation experience, the second trial will test predominately how people with minimal rehabilitation respond to the program.  The first Intensive Rehabilitation Trial has now been completed, with researchers eagerly awaiting its findings.  The biostatistician is currently analysing the data from this Trial and over the coming few months, the research team will collate all the findings. Whilst the official results have not been formally shared, the preliminary findings have indicated life changing outcomes for the participants.  Because of our incredible fundraising community these 2 Rehabilitation Trials will ensure a robust set of data and it is hoped that this work will help change the way rehabilitation is administered in Australia, post injury.

Maritimo Launch Sail Racing Division

Representing the Gold Coast and Queensland in the iconic 2022 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, sailing yacht Maritimo 11 departed Southport Yacht Club with a rousing send-off from Mayor Tom Tate, joined by 100 family, friends and supporters. The yacht race from Sydney Harbour to Hobart, Tasmansia is celebrating its 77th edition with a strong fleet of 115 yachts.  The 628 nautical mile course is often described as the most grueling ocean race in the world, attracting sailors from around the world and the cream of Australian entries. Maritimo 11 will compete in the 52-foot grand prix racing yachts class, against 12 other contenders, including two champion internationals.  The 15.85-metre yacht is a meticulously refurbished, Reichel Pugh-designed TP52 – a champion racing yacht brought to Australia from Mexico. The TP52 was originally designed for the Transpac Race from Los Angeles to Honolulu and is a lean, light-weight yacht with few creature comforts for crew. There are around 80 of these carbon fibre yachts racing in all parts of the world, and they are extremely competitive.  The TPs have dominated Australian ocean racing including the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race in recent years and seem to enjoy a sweet spot under the IRC Handicap Rule that determines the overall winner of the Race.  In 2015, Paul Clitheroe’s TP52 Balance was declared the overall winner of the 2015 edition, and Matt Allen TP52, Ichi Ban is a three-time winner of the prestigious Race, taking home the Tattersall Cup in 2021, 2019 and 2017.  Maritimo founder, Bill Barry-Cotter could see the untapped potential in the TP52 he located in Fiji which was then transported to Maritimo’s Coomera headquarters where the yacht underwent a thorough refit, including new sails and all navigation equipment to bring her up to the latest safety and racing standards.  Maritimo is unique as the only luxury motor yacht builder in the world with a dedicated sail racing division and world championship power race team all in-house. Celebrating the desire to win on all parts of the ocean is core to Maritimo’s DNA.  In 2021-22, Maritimo invested in a multi-million dollar expansion program to meet production demand from increased sales volumes. Integral to keeping pace with demand is the company’s focus on recruitment, training and development of the next generation of trades people.  “We are extremely proud to be a Gold Coast manufacturer, with more than 300+ employees and motor yachts that are prized around the world,” states Tom Barry-Cotter, Tom Barry-Cotter, Managing Director at Maritimo. “A testament to the skills and craftsmanship of our tradespeople, Maritimo 11 will be flying the flag for the Gold Coast in the 2022 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.”  Michael Spies, veteran of 44 Rolex Sydney Hobart Race is at the helm and his crew of 14 includes Bill Barry-Cotter’s brother, Kendal, several champion sailors and Navigator Murray Spence.  Maritimo 11’s crew has an impress tally of 198 Rolex Sydney Hobart Races between the crew of 14.  Fourteen-year-old aspiring Olympic sailor, Addison Newlan who is supported by Maritimo in a yacht racing program was on Maritimo 11 on the sail down to Sydney. Ensuring we nurture the next generation of sailors and power boaters is another endeavor that Maritimo takes very seriously.  Addison raced with the crew during Australia’s Hamilton Island Race week and was part of the Maritimo 11 delivery crew, but will have to wait a few more years before she can compete due to the event’s age requirement of 18. However, being part of the highly experience crew is an exceptional opportunity for the 14 year old school girl.  Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, VIP guests and supporters bid farewell Maritimo 11 and wish her crew a safe and successful race south.  The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has become an icon of Australia's summer sport, ranking among such popular national spectator events as the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open tennis and the Boxing Day cricket test. 

MJM New Online Store 

You can now stock up on MJM branded apparel as well as cool things for your boat. The new MJM online store has everything from shirts and jackets to cutting boards, coasters, and customized rocks glasses. 

Riviera Owner Applauses Team 

The dedicated and passionate Riviera team marked the past year with a lunchtime Christmas celebration at the company’s facility in early December. Owner Rodney Longhurst stood to applaud and praise the efforts of the entire 900-strong team. “Throughout the challenges we faced together during this year, I have truly admired your can-do attitude, and your commitment to moving forward together,” he told the team. “When we attend boat shows around the world, it’s like our World Cup and we are showcasing motor yachts that all of you played a part in creating. We are the Aussie battler, standing tall beside the best in the world. Our passion for creating world-class motor yachts has never been stronger and I thank each and every one of you for your great efforts this year.” Following the team celebration, Rodney reflected on the year 2022. “If anyone ever doubted we are a family, they simply need to look at what has been achieved by the great people at Riviera. I am so impressed by the incredible efforts, and the amazing achievements every day. “Like most businesses around the world we’ve had supply-chain delays and operational challenges. And our team simply gets on with it. “Our enormous investment in expansion of our facility to complement our team’s performance and to enhance our production capabilities is almost complete. “During the year we launched our flagship 78 Motor Yacht – the largest ever built by Riviera, together with the 4600 Sport Yacht Platinum Edition, 465 SUV and the 46 Sports Motor Yacht. “We are always delighted when we see and hear about the adventures of our Riviera owners as they take their yachts to explore some of the most fascinating and beautiful waterways of the world. From Roche Harbour in the Pacific Northwest to the Bahamas in the Caribbean, Hauraki Gulf in Auckland in New Zealand and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the Riviera family is enjoying a very special bond. “In May we again hosted the Riviera Festival of Boating during the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on Queensland’s Gold Coast. Our Festival of boating education and social events brought the Riviera family together to enhance their skills and further their enjoyment of boating. “The year 2022 has been a significant milestone for Wes and me personally. It marks 10 years of evolution and constant improvement. “Together with our senior team we embarked on a transformation that has seen the launch of three new collections – SUV, Sports Motor Yacht and Motor Yacht – and the refinement of the incredibly popular Sport Yacht collection. “Our team has also grown, now standing at more than 900 from just 600 two years ago. Today more than 100 apprentices are being trained across the full spectrum of skills and crafts, from boatbuilding, engineering and electrical to timber and composite machinists and upholstery. This year a record number of 45 apprentices joined our training program, including 10 mature-aged trainees. “Riviera’s apprentice training program was recognised on the international stage in November, jointly winning the ‘Best Apprenticeship or Training Scheme’ category at the prestigious Boat Builder Awards held in Amsterdam. “Our expanded CAD, CNC and laser cutting technology is assisting our team’s productivity greatly. “Beyond infrastructure expansion, technology has also been advanced to further enhance quality and consistency in yacht builds. Five of our seven production lines are now utilising resin infusion to create stronger and lighter weight components. “This year our team has delivered more than 150 yachts to excited owners. Rodney Longhurst concluded: “We are driven by a desire to continually advance the design and luxury of today’s Riviera motor yachts resulting in simply the best motor yachts ever produced by Riviera. “I sincerely thank our owners for their extraordinary support. They continue to inspire us every day.”

Sirena Past the 100 Boat Mark

Sirena Yachts is marking a new milestone with the launch of its 100th boat. The lucky build number appears on a Sirena 88 – As the flagship of the brand, the 88 is a sleek blend of gleaming white topsides and black glass, complete with an open-top sun deck, private Jacuzzi on the foredeck and one of the biggest, brightest master cabins in its class.  Launching an 88ft yacht is ample cause for celebration in its own right. But it is more impressive still because it represents the feat of delivering 100 boats in less than six years - the first Sirena Yacht was only introduced to the world in 2017. The tightly styled range of four motor yachts, with naval architecture signed by German Frers and interiors by titans such as Cor D. Rover, has proven exceptionally successful.

Sunreef Wins German Design Award

Sunreef Yachts is delighted to inform that the Sunreef 80 Eco has won the German Design Award 2023. In recognition of its outstanding architecture, the luxury eco-catamaran received an award in the Excellent Product Design category.  The German Design Award is one of the most renowned design awards worldwide and honors the companies contributing to a better future with their innovative spirit. Its jury of experts awards groundbreaking design achievements in various industries worldwide.  

Sunseeker Yacht Finalist in Trio of Boat International Awards 

Sunseeker is delighted to announce that the new 100 Yacht is in the running to win three awards at the renowned Boat International Design and Innovation Awards 2023. The 100 Yacht is a finalist in the ‘Outstanding Motor Yacht Exterior’, ‘Outstanding Lifestyle Feature’, and ‘Innovation of the Year’ award categories.  Two years in the making, the 100 Yacht has had a long design process and a fusion of existing proven ideas with a new, fast-flowing layout. The exterior spaces unite the yacht as one vast entertainment space.  Andrea Frabetti, Chief Executive Officer at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted in these prestigious design awards for a consecutive year. The rate of innovation at Sunseeker is one of the greatest in the industry, and we are proud of the design teams for their exceptional vision and, importantly, ability to realise a masterpiece. The 100 Yacht renderings are a true reflection of the build, a stunning exterior profile and head-turning aft when moored in the marina. There are living spaces typical of yachts 50 metres and above. Each environment is re-interpreted in its true living essence. Those who have stepped aboard have remarked on the beauty, functionality, comfort and innovation of the 100 Yacht.”

Viking on Fox News for Ten Knots Restriction

Fox News Channel reporter Douglas Kennedy visited the Viking manufacturing plant this week to interview Viking President and CEO Pat Healey about the 10-knot restriction being proposed by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The story is scheduled to air next week – we’ll let you know when through our social media. Viking has been an integral part of the marine industry’s effort to raise awareness about the devastating impact the rule would have on the boating and fishing community.  The North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule would broaden the current 10-knot (11.5 mph) speed limit to include boats 35 feet and larger (down from 65 feet); expand the zones from discrete areas to virtually the entire East Coast as far out as 100 miles; and extend the go-slow mandate for up to seven months a year. Boaters, anglers, maritime businesses and other stakeholders can help by urging Congress and other elected officials to demand that NOAA pause the rule until more reasonable alternatives can be found – solutions that involve tracking the whales, not instituting overreaching maritime laws.  

Viking at Pirates Cove Sailfish Tournament

The prestigious Pirate’s Cove Sailfish Classic saw two Vikings on the leader board. John Dougherty’s Viking 52 Outrage (above) released five sailfish for a 2nd Place finish. Eric Nabreski released three fish, while Mike Halley added a pair. The Viking 80 Frigate also released five sails and claimed 3rd Place based on time.

Wider Fano Shipyard on Track to Open in 2023 

It’s been less than a year since the building plans for Wider‘s new shipyard in Fano were announced. Today, the high-tech facility under construction in Fano is on track to open a first production area in early 2023.  With the heavy foundation work almost complete, the 18,000-sqm seafront site between Fano’s fishing port and the tourist marina is scheduled to start up production in next February.  “The new shipyard will be a real innovation centre,” says Marcello Maggi, who heads up W-Fin Sarl, the holding Company that owns 100% of Wider equity. “It’s where all our future boats, new green technologies and new ideas coming from start-uppers will come to life in full compliance with environmental issues. In other words, a pole of excellence not only for the city of Fano, but also for the Italian boatbuilding industry.”

Zeelander Completes Major Expansion

Zeelander Yachts is finishing 2022 on a high note, after a year of steady expansion and growth. The Dutch yard has added 40 per cent to its capacity, and launched the seductively restyled Zeelander 6. Meanwhile, a detailed rebranding exercise has created a new visual identity for the brand which fits its core values more closely. Zeelander has also completed a successful recruitment drive to enlarge its skilled workforce by 45 per cent. The new staff are supporting the extension of the yard itself, which has been able to grow on land adjacent to the waterside site in Groot-Ammers, the Netherlands.