Monthly News - January 2023

-pic of the month- Bertram in YachtWorld Cult Classics

Alva New Adriatic Sea Dealer

Alva Yachts, the German builder of luxury electric solar catamarans and sailboats, has announced Yachtwerk as its new dealer for the Adriatic Sea region, as it expands its global network.  As the brand looks ahead to its Ocean ECO 60 making its world debut later this year, it is strengthening its dealer network as interest and sales of its yachts continue to rise.  Alva, which is bringing yachting into a new era with electrified solar catamarans and sailing yachts that combine self-sufficient, long-range cruising capabilities and class-leading design, delivering the best boats for forward-thinking explorers currently has models from 60 to 90ft in build at its shipyard in Antalya, Turkey, with buyers lined up.  Founded in 2018, Yachtwerk offers a partner network and technical service branches in Germany, Croatia and Italy and prides itself on providing its clients with tailored, reliable, and high-quality end-to-end yacht sales and after sales customer care services.  Stefan Breck, CEO at Yachtwerk said of the new partnership: “We’re excited to start this new partnership with Alva Yachts and share its innovative designs and market-leading electrified solar catamarans with our customers. This partnership is an important step in our efforts to strengthen and expand our business by offering luxury electric catamarans that not only generate strong emotions, but also contribute to environmental sustainability.  “In collaboration with our partner company, Timone Yachts and Splendid Yachting located in Italy and Croatia, we have decided to add an Ocean ECO 60 power solar catamaran to our charter fleet, which will  also be available to our clients from 2025.”  Dennis de Roos, chief commercial officer at Alva Yachts said: “We are very excited to welcome Yachtwerk to the Alva family as an exclusive dealer partner. We have significant interest from private customers and charter companies from the Adriatic Sea region and we look forward to a long term partnership to provide our customers with their dream Alva Yacht and the excellent customer care that Yachtwerk offers.”  

Bayliss New Paint Facility in Action

Bayliss brand new paint facility is ready for action. After 14 months of construction, the paint crew was officially given the OK to carry-out the first full paint in the newt facility on December 12th. The mechanical team wasted no time moving Blue Sky a Spencer 60 into the state-of-the-art spray booth that afternoon, and by the end of the evening our paint department had sprayed the hull with topcoat.  A cold, blustery December in Wanchese played no factor in Blue Sky's paint timeline. The climate-controlled booth reached temperatures of 120°F during the cure cycle to create the best conditions for a crisp finish. Our paint team completed her final topcoat just in time for Christmas, and Blue Sky will be making the move back to our main shop to receive her boot stripe and bottom paint.

Beneteau Group and Volvo Unveil Futuristic Concept

With its hybrid electric pilot project currently proving a success in commercial marine applications, Volvo Penta is expanding its scope and has announced its first trial in the leisure segment. This exciting development will see a fully-integrated Volvo Penta hybrid electric system feature on a Groupe Beneteau concept boat. Volvo Penta is calling on end users, media, enthusiasts and industry stakeholders to actively collaborate in the concept development by providing feedback around the desired experience, boat and system design, and innovative features – all with sustainability as a key driver.  The helm to prop technology of the concept boat is based on the successful pilot project of a hybrid electric vessel for Hurtigruten Svalbard, which took to the waters in 2022 and has been running near-silent tour experiences ever since. The new demo vessel will be stationed at Volvo Penta’s state-of-the-art Krossholmen test facility in Sweden and over the coming months media, customers, and dealers will be invited to get hands-on experience and look behind the scenes at the Gothenburg facility. This is the first time Volvo Penta has invited end users to its test facility at this concept stage, to experience the solutions of tomorrow.  The hybrid electric demo is not available for sale but will instead serve as a platform for testing and learning together with early adopters. Silence is a key benefit to hybrid electric boating that holds major appeal, and the sustainable experience is set to change the nature of boating. But this initiative will also look beyond that to discover what else customers would like to see: how they expect to spend their time on the water and what performance needs they have around automation, connectivity, and more. Ahead of a much broader launch of sustainable vessels, Volvo Penta and Groupe Beneteau will use the input from this process to support its product development, running as an additional workstream in the process.  “One of our core philosophies at Volvo Penta is ‘learning by doing’ and presenting this concept to customers at this early stage will help us in our efforts to transform Boating for Everyone," says Johan Inden, President of the Marine Business at Volvo Penta. “Feedback we get during this process will be incorporated into our ongoing development process. By running customer trials alongside product development, we will accelerate transformation in boating and ensure our finished products are market-ready. Groupe Beneteau is a great partner for this project, because the company’s vision is so forward-looking and it’s a globally recognized brand.”  Erik Stromberg, Vice President of Power and Motor Yacht Products, Groupe Beneteau, said his company was excited about the potential new experiences this new vessel can enable.  “Our focus is always on enhancing the user experience, and this demo gives us a chance to shape a new customer experience directly with customers and dealers. We see hybrid propulsion as one of the keys to unlocking new ways of enjoying being on the water. This will be a much quieter experience that is more respectful of the marine world, with the potential to change the way we live and enjoy boating. Our roadmap includes the rapid introduction and commercialization of hybrid models across several of our market segments. We will then leverage our advantages in terms of industrial scale, commitment to quality and customer-focused approach to bring it to the global market.”  A Jeanneau NC 37 model will be used for the purpose of the demo, equipped with a Volvo Penta twin D4-320 DPI Aquamatic hybrid-electric concept and updated technology including Volvo Penta’s full joystick docking system and the Dynamic Positioning System, which have been adapted to work in electric mode. This demo boat will also feature added manoeuvrability, a hydraulic clutch for silent shifting at low engine speeds, and greater control thanks to the precise joystick functionality.  Groupe Beneteau is a global market leader in the marine leisure sector and has been in operation for nearly 150 years. It prides itself on providing innovative solutions that are designed with customers in mind. The company aims to anticipate, conceive, and select innovations that enable the best experiences for its customers.  “Innovation is embedded in the DNA of Volvo Penta and the company prides itself on harnessing forward-thinking, technological advances. With Groupe Beneteau’s customer-first, innovative mindset, this collaboration will contribute to both companies’ aims towards the future of boating transformation,” concludes Johan Inden.  This demo between Volvo Penta and Groupe Beneteau will be available for dealers and end customers to test during Spring 2023.

Bertram in YachtWorld Cult Classics

Bertram was featured in Yachtworld Cult Classics series episode two, reviewing the history of the brand. From the iconic start, along with reviews of the iconic 31 model and details of some refitted units and going to the new 35 model launched in 2016. The series conducted by Marilyn Demartini also features interviews with iconic figures from Dick's son Morgan Bertram, current designer Michael Peters, and Tommy Thompson sales manager.  

Dominator in Robb Report Luxury Gifts

Featured among Robb Report‘s 20 most Spectacular Luxury Gifts for the Person Who Has Everything, the extraordinary Dominator Midi Ilumen is available now for a unique community of discerning thinkers, global citizens and thought leaders who share a passion for boutique craftsmanship, design, creation and the most extraordinary things in life.  Dominator Yachts is pioneering and perfection the concept of ultimate luxury and unprecedented bespoke builds with a mega yacht philosophy in a small format, which is unlike anything you have ever seen before on a eleven meter sport cruiser.  

 

Evo Yachts Celebrates Success in United Arab Emirates

It has been a hectic few months for Evo Yachts following its success at the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show in November, with the yard completing the sale of several EVO R4 units and working to close various contracts in the Arab Emirates. During the show, local owners showed great interest in the possibility of transforming the yacht’s external areas to make the most of every moment in the day, as well as in the extensive personalization options available for the interior decoration and layout.  The collaboration with the new dealer, Evo Yachts Dubai, focuses on across-the-board assistance for Middle Eastern owners, walking them through every step in the purchasing process, describing the features of the models, and offering such a broad range of customization options that the brand’s boats are all but custom units.  As it did at the Abu Dhabi Boat Show, the yard is also reporting excellent results in the Emirates for its bestselling Evo R4 – a 13-metre fast day cruiser with clean, elegant lines and a layout that can be customized for the Middle Eastern market – and for the Evo R6.  In fact, the models built by the yard founded in 2014 are a breath of fresh air for the Middle Eastern yachting industry, bringing a new onboard lifestyle to the Emirates and the Gulf States.  Recognising this appeal, the yard will also be attending the Oman Boat Show in February and the Dubai Boat Show in March, without of course neglecting the upcoming industry events on other continents.

Fairline Two New Dealers in Austria and Bulgaria

British luxury motor yacht manufacturer Fairline has announced the appointment of two new dealers for Austria and Bulgaria.  To be known as Fairline Austria, Boot Riedl was established in 2003 by Alexander Riedl, and is based in Klagenfurt am Südring, where it offers an 800m2 showroom. The team boasts nearly 20 years experience in buying and selling motoryachts across Europe, focusing on the Adriatic Sea region.  Fairline Bulgaria will operate out of family-owned Bulmer Ltd which was founded in 1992 and was the first company in Bulgaria to import, sell and service boats, yachts and engines. The family’s passion for the ocean, watersports, boats and engines has seen the business grow for the last 30 years.  Boot Riedl founder Alexander Riedl said of the announcement: “The Fairline brand is well-known and is the epitome of high-quality and it fits perfectly into our portfolio. I previously owned a Squadron 74 myself, which is a great advantage when talking to clients about the brand and the boats themselves. The team is excited about bringing Fairline to our customers and the addition of Fairline to our roster of brands now enables us to offer clients a complete range of boats from 15-68ft.”  Asen Kostov, owner of Bulmer Ltd: “We are delighted to join the Fairline dealer network and are looking forward to building this iconic brand’s presence in our territory. The quality of build and experience of the Fairline teams really stood out to us when we were looking to embark on a long-term relationship with a proven manufacturer. With an impressive range of boats and an exciting opportunity for the Bulmer team.”  James Powell, sales director at Fairline said: “We’re delighted to start 2023 by welcoming Fairline Austria and Fairline Bulgaria to the Fairline family. Both Boote Riedl and Bulmer strongly believe in the quality Fairline offers and we’re looking forward to a long relationship with both dealerships enabling their customers the opportunity to explore their boating regions on board a Fairline.”  The two appointments follow the dealer appointment announcements in autumn 2022 of South Germany and Montenegro; the addition of the new dealers brings the total number of dealers worldwide to 54.

Ferretti Group 2023 Set Strong Year

Ferretti Group kicked off 2023 at Boot Düsseldorf, a key industry event and the first boat show of the year, where the Group opened the presentation of its fleet with the premiere of Ferretti Yachts 580, the luxurious and ultramodern new flybridge. The press conference, held on Saturday January 21 in the splendid setting of the German show and addressing both journalists and the trade, centred on our keenly awaited new models and also included a heads up on business strategies and project decisions. 2022 was decisive in terms of new models and extending the range, with 54 models (of which 4 sailing boats) against 42 in 2021. The new yachts from the Pershing, Wally, Riva, Custom Line, CRN, Itama and Ferretti Yachts brands are the fruit of a robust investment plan amounting to 68 million euros in the first nine months of 2022 alone. Investments in recent years have served to boost production capacity and the Group can now boast around 290,000 square metres at its various sites, up 14.5% on 2021, showing a strong positive trend also reflected in the financial results for Q3 2022, with revenues at €781.1m and an order backlog close on €1.4bn. “This is just the beginning, as I tell all the many people who compliment us on our boats and results, and I’m not just talking about the start of 2023 of course. We’ve been determined in recent years to focus on the long term and fuel Ferretti Group’s growth with all the right ingredients: investments in innovation and sustainability, sustained recruitment of high-flying young talents, and initiatives to build on our brands, which are unique in their appeal, history and prestige,” commented Ferretti Group CEO Alberto Galassi. “This, in addition to the extremely positive signals we keep getting from the market, is why I’m expecting an exciting 2023, in terms of both orders and all the beauty and wonder that our boats will be bringing to the international yachting scene.” The conference also discussed new models and projects from the Group’s brands, ranging from Wally and its new wallypower58X project, a powerful sterndrive in the wallypower range, to progress reports on the wallywhy150, which will make its world debut at the Venice Boat Show 2023 and on which the engine has already been installed and the hull-to-deck joint completed, as well as on the wallywhy100, a model that combines all the characteristics of a 60 to 70-foot coupé and benefits from the extra volume offered by Wally. Construction is also proceeding at a brisk pace on the wally101 full custom performance cruiser, the latest generation cruiser-racer built from carbon fiber sandwich laminate that will be launched in the spring. The main developments at Pershing include the new GTX 116 and the GTX80 project, which is to accompany the flagship from 2024 on. Another revelation was the official name of the latest sensational project from Riva, the Riva 82’ Diva. Custom Line presented its Navetta 38, the first navetta to have a deck level with the water, while Ferretti Yachts gave a world preview of its Ferretti Yachts 580, a happy symbiosis of luxury and design, as well as presenting the first model in the new InFYnito range, Ferretti Yachts InFYnito 90. The InFYnito range is characterized by materials and an approach to cruising that respect the environment and sustainability, as well as by personalized and custom detailing and a direct link with the sea and the sky.

Formula Earns Praise from BoatTest.com

Recently earning praise from BoatTest.com was the Formula 350 Crossover Bowrider. BoatTest.com had this to say, "Several builders jumped on the '"Crossover'" concept in the beginning - but none as forcefully as Formula. Now everyone wants one. This 350 CBR is a good example of one."

Frauscher New Dealer in Poland

In RR Yachts, Frauscher shipyard has found an experienced dealer on the Polish Baltic coast. The managing directors, Radek Pstrokonski and Rafal Lenartowski, offer luxury yachts and customised yacht management services between the three cities of Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia as well as in Montenegro, the yachting hotspot on the Adriatic.   Rafal Lenartowski and Radek Pstrokonski, founders and managing directors of RR Yachts say, “Joining the Frauscher family is a big new chapter in our company’s history. The Frauscher brand has already proven hugely popular with Polish customers. And Montenegro, with the Bay of Kotor surrounded by stylish hotels and villas, is the natural environment for Frauscher boats.”  Stefan Frauscher of Frauscher shipyard explains, “Rafal and Radek impressed us with their innovative concept to enhance the position of the Frauscher brand on the market for electric and motor boats in Poland and Montenegro. Both markets offer huge potential for sophisticated, high-end recreational boats. We are really looking forward to our future collaboration.”  RR Yachts deals in world-famous brands and offers comprehensive yacht management services. Their philosophy is that yacht ownership should be pure pleasure. This aspiration is also fulfilled by Frauscher’s “engineers of emotions”. Frauscher motor and electric boats combine impressively sophisticated design and phenomenal technical features — both in terms of adrenaline and comfort on the water.

Greenline Appoints New CEO and Management Structure

Greenline Yachts, the pioneer of responsible boating, have today announced the appointment of Matjaž Grm as CEO to lead their business expansion.  The announcement follows the departure of General Manager Ziga Petac, who left the company in December 2022.  Major shareholder Vladimir Zinchenko and his partners at the SVP Group, owner of Greenline Yachts, have decided on an ambitious business plan for the next five to eight years, which includes new model launches (in the mid-to-large size range) and investment in both new and existing production facilities.  Vladimir Zinchenko, owner of Greenline Yachts, says: “With the demand for larger yachts, it is time to also have access to the water. We have been looking for a coastal location site where we can build a further production facility. We have identified potential sites in both Slovenia and Croatia and will start this project within the next 12 to 14 months.”  Slovenia-born Grm has more than 13 years’ experience in various positions in the sporting goods and nautical sector and spent 14 years in the caravan sector as S&M executive director with Adria, which became leading RV brand in Europe under his leadership. Living in walking distance of the shipyard, Grm brings both the local and international experience to help to accelerate the growth of the company.  “I am thrilled to be joining the most innovative and responsible boat brand in the world. Greenline Yachts provide the only complete fleet available with alternative or conventional propulsion systems – and with plans to grow the model range and production facilities – Greenline are set to further deliver an unrivalled responsible boating experience. I look forward to growing our business network and ground-breaking product portfolio together with our world class team.”  50-year-old Grm is an MBA graduate and has consulted for large multinationals. He brings a wealth of strategic, operational and multifunctional knowledge to the business and will focus on connecting Greenline’s brand, sales and product management with operational strategies. With first-rate leadership skills, Grm will hone Greenline’s positive company culture and also support employee growth and development.  Luca Raumland, who joined the company in 2017 and served since then as Head of Sales and Marketing, takes the position of Chief Sales & Marketing Officer and will manage sales, marketing and business development.  Peter Meyer, owner of Boatyard Solutions, also joins the new management team as interim COO for the next 12 months. Meyer is a German production consultant with 35 years of experience in production and purchase in the nautical sector.  Vladimir Zinchenko will take over a role on the advisory board and focus on the new shipyard development. 

MJM Manufacturing Advancements

It all starts with the vision and the design. To improve sailboat performance with the wind as a finite source of energy, founder Bob Johnstone knew that stronger, stiffer, and lighter high-tech construction with a low vertical center of gravity (VCG) worked wonders.  Typically, powerboat builders didn’t care, they just built boats heavy and cheap, then kept adding more horsepower. This left the door wide open for the Johnstone family to create MJM Yachts as the first seriously built performance motoryacht with strong/light high-tech epoxy composite construction. The net result was a faster, lighter motoryacht that delivered impressive fuel-efficiency. “Twice the Fun, Half the Fuel” became MJM’s initial mantra. When setting out to build the world’s most capable motoryacht, the vision was clear and ambitious. These new yachts would not only need to be fast and fuel-efficient, but they also had to be far more comfortable and stable and a step beyond anything available on the market. This meant advanced design and engineering, an innovative manufacturing process, and tougher, more expensive materials. This quality of construction is one of the fundamentals that differentiates MJM Yachts as the finest in its class. The result was a hybrid that we call the Carolina Downeast style.

Moonen Goes Racing and Takes Second

The Moonen Yachts Racing team has taken the second spot in the 2022-23 16ft Skiff Australian Championships. After a dramatic week of closely fought racing in Sydney Harbour, Moonen Yachts is thrilled with the racing team’s well-deserved place on the podium.  As a Dutch superyacht builder with Australian owners, Moonen Yachts is proud to support the team in the Australian 16ft skiff league. Moonen Yachts Commercial Director Victor Caminada, who was among the shipyard team following the races from the otherside of the world, congratulated skipper Daniel Turner, sheet hand Gus Williams and bowman Matt Stenta.  “Competitive sailing connects us around the world,” Victor says. “Many of us here at the shipyard in Holland are sailors, so it’s exciting to see the Moonen brand supporting such a talented sail team at the top of their game.”  He also thanked the Manly 16ft Skiff Club and all the volunteers who organised this year’s event, hosting 47 boats and their teams. The fast Australian skiffs are not only thrilling for spectators, but the beautiful summer setting on Manly Cove combined with the fun and friendly atmosphere make the regatta a world-class sporting event.  “Consistency is key with racing in these big number fleets and also such long events,” says skipper Daniel Turner. “We had every weather system possible from 25 knot winds to some really light air races. We even had the pleasure of a few Sydney-based Moonen yachts passing by the race track and stopping briefly for a bit of viewing!”  The high performance 16ft skiff is a unique Australian class with a fiercely competitive fleet. The extremely high sail area-to-weight ratio requires no small amount of skill and experience to sail, reaching speeds up to 25 knots with 67m2 (720 sq ft) total sail area.

Nordhavn Celebrates Ta Shing Partnership

The end of January is a festive one in eastern cultures and Nordhavn’s Taiwanese factory partner, Ta Shing, had big reasons to celebrate. At a recent gala event, the company marked the occasion of the Chinese New Year, with 200 guests including Ta Shing staff, Nordhavn staff and distinguished guests coming together to observe the holiday. But it also was a celebration of the wonderful work Ta Shing has done, having produced several big beautiful Nordhavns the past few years while the effects of Covid still loomed large.  Pacific Asian Enterprises, Inc. President Dan Streech and PAE Chief Operating Officer Sky Scott flew in from California to represent all the appreciative folks from Nordhavn, while special guests of honor Nicole and Chris Chestnut, buyers of Nordhavn 7103 as well as Gordon Turner, owner of N6839, were on hand to take part in the festivities. The Chestnuts fortunately timed the factory inspection of their N71 to coincide with the celebration and even got into the proceedings; Nicole Chestnut took a turn pulling money-filled envelopes in a sort of raffle that has become a Chinese New Year tradition.  Meanwhile, Gordon Turner, who took delivery of his second Nordhavn about a year ago, missed out on visiting the factory to see the progress of his N68 build. His attendance at the party gave him the chance to finally and personally express his gratitude to all the men and women responsible for his boat.  “PAE and Ta Shing have been partners for 46 years and we continue to be a successful, strong brand that builds amazing yachts thanks in huge part to this partnership,” said Sky Scott, who stepped in for Dan Streech after he fell under the weather. “We are pleased to be here during this very meaningful time for Ta Shing and show them our appreciation for what they do on a daily basis.”  Also representing PAE was the company’s “eyes and ears” on the ground, David Jen, PAE’s factory liaison who is based in Taiwan.  This year’s event was especially memorable because it is the first New Year’s celebration to occur since the onset of Covid in 2020. The party is an annual event, a tradition initiated by Ta Shing’s former president, Tim Juan (who was in attendance) and carried on by current president, Ross Sang, who was joined by Archie Yen, Chairman of Ta Shing, in honoring the entire Ta Shing team. The all-day affair kicks off with the office team cooking lunch for the factory workers, eventually winding into the evening’s activities, an elaborate dinner and entertainment.

Numarine Thirteen Yachts Under Construction

2022 marked our 20th anniversary and was the best year we’ve ever had,” says Ömer Malaz, Chairman of Numarine. “And it looks like the next 12 months are just going to mimic it.” Numarine looks back on a successful 2022 and forward to the next 12 months that are looking just as promising. Inside Numarine’s 35,000-square-metre, climate-controlled production facility near Istanbul, there are currently 13 yachts total under construction in the 22XP, 26XP and 37XP ranges (the 37XP made its boat show debut last year). In the past five years the company has found a successful niche in crossover-style explorer yachts.  That change of focus has proven to be a winner and last year Numarine became the first yacht builder in the country to be accepted into Turquality, the Turkish government’s brand accreditation and grant support initiative. Only the most efficiently managed businesses are accepted into this programme, which requires rigorous vetting by independent auditors. “We’ve delivered over 170 yachts to date, so we now have a very credible pedigree with a niche product”, says Malaz.  He adds that exports account for around 70 per cent of Numarine sales with 20 percent in Turkey, 35 percent in the US, 25 percent from other European countries, and the remaining 10 percent from elsewhere. Turkey is now challenging the top yacht-building nations of Italy, the Netherlands and Germany. According to SuperyachtTimes’ report State of Yachting 2022, the country’s shipyards rank third in the world, with 70 new builds over 24m under construction in 2022. The nation also overtook the Netherlands in terms of most yachts built between 30m-40m.  The brand has also acquired land to expand its production with a new waterside facility, where Numarine will build its new flagship, the steel and aluminum tri-decker 45XP expected to enter serial production. Having delivered an average of eight boats a year for the past two decades, today Numarine is delivering a dozen yachts per annum and soon the tally will be nearer 15 once its new waterside facility is fully up and running.  “We are about to deliver our 37XP number 8 with another five in production and, down the line, we hope to have six 45s in production,” says Malaz. “I don’t think there is anything that a 60-metre or 70-metre yacht can do that a 45-metre cannot. That is why we’re staying under 50 meters for the foreseeable future.”  Despite the imminent expansion, Numarine fully intends to keep construction in-house to ensure consistent quality and optimum flexibility. In addition to the hull and superstructure production using the latest in vacuum infusion technology and composite materials such as kevlar and carbon fibre, Numarine has glass, cabinetry, upholstery and metal workshops.  Moreover, it is prepared to start hulls on speculation to shorten delivery times and maintain efficient production flow. Given the reputation for self-sufficiency the company trades on, its explorer specifications tend to be higher than more mainstream yachts, which means add-on costs are relatively low, rarely adding more than around 10% (excluding engine choices) to the final price.  Post-Covid, the supply chain is still an ongoing concern for all shipbuilders, but Numarine has been able to mitigate the effects by ordering critical components in advance. “We have gone so far as to order engines for yachts scheduled for delivery in 2025,” says Malaz.  Sustainability is another key issue that will only become more important in the coming years as prospective owners increasingly expect more sustainable building practices and greener onboard technologies. “If we do not address the problem, we become part of it,” says Malaz. “We are trying to be a leader in sustainability, not a follower.”  In fact, Numarine has expanded its product range with an innovative new model, the diesel-hybrid 30XP, the first for the company with hybrid propulsion, which is scheduled to launch in 2024.

Pearl Wins Judges Special Award

British boutique boatbuilder Pearl Yachts has been announced as the winner of the “Judges’ Special Award at the recent Motor Boat Awards, by the editorial team at UK monthly magazine Motor Boat & Yachting. The announcement of the Judges’ Special Award follows. “This award goes to a person, a group of people or a company that the judges feel deserves special recognition, either for an exceptional one-off achievement or a whole lifetime of dedication. Today’s winner falls somewhere between the two having consistently punched above its weight in a highly competitive market for almost 25 years.” “From its humble beginnings in 1998 when a former yacht captain teamed up with a local businessman to launch a stylish new range of spacious aft cabin craft, this ambitious company has never shied away from doing things differently. In the face of vastly bigger, better known, more well-resourced competition, it has managed to defy the odds, building spacious, cleverly packaged craft with the style and quality to match.”  “While many of its better-known competitors have been bought, sold or even fallen by the wayside over the years, its founder lain Smallridge and owners Tony and Margaret Whittaker have safely steered tonight’s winner through the rough times, continually investing in new products. Bringing in world class designers like Bill Dixon and Kelly Hoppen have helped to keep its offerings as fresh and innovative as ever. Now in its 25th year and with a range of world class yachts from 62’ to 95’, including a brand new 72-footer being shown here in Dusseldorf for the first time. The winners of our Judges’ Special Award 2023 is Pearl Yachts.” Pearl Yachts is simultaneously celebrating the overwhelmingly positive reception of its latest model’s European debut at the prestigious boat show boot Dusseldorf 2023. The German nautical industry event was the second introduction of the Pearl 72, building on the success of her recent world premiere in Fort Lauderdale.  As soon as the sales team began their first tours of the show, it became clear that the Pearl 72 offered a unique combination of features, achieved through clever layout design by Dixon Yacht Design. The new model makes the most out of the space available to include two master suites in a 4 en-suite stateroom layout, plus crew cabin for 2, and a garage to accommodate a William 345 tender (or similar) and jet ski. Also appreciated was exclusive interior designer Kelly Hoppen CBE’s new style package, “Indulgence”, which joins “Luxury” and “Modern” to offer an elaborated selection of dressings for the yacht.  “Recognition from a body with the prestige of the Motor Boat Awards is a landmark for any brand in the yachting industry, but for us to be standing here, having won the Judges’ Award after 25 years of hard work is a great achievement.” said Pearl Yachts Managing Director Iain Smallridge. “We count ourselves among the profoundly fortunate because we work in an industry that we love, doing a job we love, for a company we love. None of which would have been possible without the support of with our incredible team. For this award and so much else, we must thank our Production Director, Paul Hannah, who has been fundamental in the development of the product for more than 20 years. Cenk Efe of Mallorca Marine Group who has been our longest serving dealer and long term friend, our communications coordinators Corrado Del Fanti and Sculati & Partners, Bill Dixon and his team at Dixon yacht design, Kelly Hoppen CBE and her team of interior designers, and last but by no means the least, our owners Tony and Margaret Whitaker, whom without their unfaltering support, belief and trust we would most certainly never have achieved any of this.”

Riviera Awards Excellence at Dealers Conference

Riviera, Australia's luxury motor yacht builder, celebrated service excellence with  its network of international representatives during a special awards event on Australia's Gold Coast in early December. Representatives from the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, along with team members from Riviera's Americas operation, witnessed Sun Country Marine, based in California in the United States, receive the prestigious International Dealer of the Year award for 2022.  Presenting the award, Riviera Australia owner Rodney Longhurst said that Sun Country Marine had consistently demonstrated "a powerful team environment and a deep commitment to Riviera and our yacht owners." Accepting the award on behalf of Sun Country Marine, Chief Operations Officer Greg Glowgow said: "We are incredibly proud to be a part of the Riviera family. This award is a reflection of an extraordinary team. Our goal every day is to be the best we can be."  The evening to celebrate achievement and service excellence was heightened by the official launch of the new Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht in a dynamic laser light show as the yacht appeared from the darkness, smoothly pirouetted, and docked to welcome the international guests aboard for their first inspection.  The award for Service Excellence by an International Dealership went to Lake Michigan Yacht Sales. CEO Matt Mrozinski said: "We have partnered with Riviera for 16 years, and we truly care about our customers.  "I was surprised and quite emotional to receive the award. It is a great recognition for our dedicated team."  The General Manager of OneWater Yacht Group, Edward Bartoszewski, was delighted to accept the award for Sales Excellence by an International Dealership.  "We apply a simple formula of great people with a strong level of experience and a quality product," he said. "Our customers are looking for quality time with family and friends, and Riviera yachts are the perfect solution."  The annual Roche Harbor Rendezvous is an institution for Riviera owners in the Pacific North-West of the United States. The fun and exciting long weekend earned Emerald Pacific Yachts the Riviera Event Excellence by an International Dealership award for 2022 - for the second successive year.  Accepting the award, Emerald Pacific Yachts partner Randy Buckell said: "Riviera is constantly adapting to the market and our owners simply want to be a part of the family. The Roche Harbor event is a fabulous reflection of that family atmosphere. It is going to be bigger and better next year!"  The award for International Service Excellence by an Individual went to Chuck Emmons at the OneWater Yacht Group.  "This was both exciting and quite unexpected," said Mr Emmons. "My team and I are truly customer-centred."  Javier Perello Borras of Wally Castro Marine in Puerto Rico was awarded International Sales Excellence by an Individual.  "I love Riviera and being a part of the family," he said. "Our team at Wally Castro Marine has been involved with Riviera for many years, and we have great belief in this organisation."  Rodney Longhurst applauded the International Dealer Award winners and the entire network of international representatives.  "The Riviera International Dealer Awards recognise the professionalism, dedication, and quality of service that our yacht owners expect," he said.  "We are truly proud of every one of our representatives around the world and are thankful for their enduring commitment and dedication to Riviera and our yacht owners.  "The reality that Riviera is held in such high esteem among yacht owners worldwide is due to the exceptional efforts of Riviera’s 900-strong team in Queensland, our team based in Florida, and the many individuals and dealerships represented here tonight. Together we strive each day to encourage that every Riviera owner experiences the ultimate enjoyment of their motor yacht."

Sacs Tecnorib Positive Results

Sacs Tecnorib closed its first year with extremely positive results that marked the success of the industrial operation carried out in December 2021: the integration of Sacs S.r.l. and Tecnorib S.r.l. with the de facto launch of a new entity that is a world leader in the luxury maxirib segment and destined to become one of the main players in international boating.  In 2022, the new company recorded growing revenues with sales at the end of 2022 of 46.3 million euros, a 21.6% increase over the sum of the sales of the two separate companies in the previous year. Moreover, further growth of approx. 24% is expected for 2023, with a turnover target of € 57.5 M.  The integration operation, which was aimed at creating a stronger entity in a competitive market such as that of maxiribs and medium-sized boats, enabled several industrial synergies with reference to production sites, design, procurement and production processes, as well as the research and development area, while the commercial brands and respective sales networks were kept separate.  Gianni de Bonis, CEO SacsTecnoRib, said: “When we completed the integration at the end of 2021, we had some doubts but high expectations. One year since the operation, I can say without fear of contradiction that it was a winning idea. By being able to take advantage of all the related economies of scope, we were able to exploit the particularly positive market context in 2022, in a pro-active and not passive manner, increasing production to meet growing market demand. This resulted in an increase in turnover and profitability and job growth in the area that hosts us”.  The new entity’s ambitions do not stop there, as also confirmed by the investment plan that for the next 24 months envisages a substantial expansion of the Roncello production area dedicated to boats over 42 feet.  Sacs Tecnorib has also unveiled the new product mix that will consist of three distinct product lines when fully operational to cover the different needs of the respective market segments.  The first is the PIRELLI-branded speedboats line of which Sacs Tecnorib is a licensee, designed by Ted Mannerfelt, characterised by the walkaround layout that revolutionised the maxirib industry and capable of combining performance and on-board comfort.  The Rebel collection, on the other hand, features a unique design and strong personality, designed by Christian Grande and is capable of high performance in all sea conditions thanks to the use of technologies from the military and civilian rescue field.  Finally, the Sacs Strider line consists of models with a modern design and customisable layout, able to excite thanks to the combination of speed and safety, ideal as both a maxitender and a day cruiser.

Sunseeker Receives Award at 2023 Motor Boat Awards

The Sunseeker 90 Ocean wins best 'Custom Yacht' at the 2023 Motor Boat Awards held during boot Düsseldorf. The annual awards aim to celebrate the very best that the leisure boating industry has to offer, recognising excellence in design, innovation and performance.  Andrea Frabetti, CEO at Sunseeker International, commented: “We are very proud that our industry-defining 90 Ocean won best 'Custom Yacht' at this year’s 2023 Motor Boat Awards. It’s a great achievement for the brand and all the hardworking teams behind this groundbreaking model.”  Hugo Andreae, Editor-in-Chief at Motor Boat & Yachting, wrote: “The Sunseeker 90 Ocean has it all: acres of versatile deck spaces packed with innovative solutions like the X-Tend™ seating; an intimate connection with the sea thanks to the vast sea-level beach club, glass transoms and bulwarks; masses of storage space for tenders, water toys and cruising gear; a wonderfully luxurious interior that makes full use of the unusually wide beam; and a hull that feels very nearly as agile and sea-kindly as some of its overtly sportier siblings.  “The fact that this all fits comfortably into a craft with an LOA of 89ft is all the more remarkable, enabling it to offer the same space and luxury as much longer boats but without the associated running costs.  However, the biggest achievement of all is that despite its extra beam and volume and a brand-new hull shape, it still manages to look, feel and drive like a true Sunseeker.”  The 90 Ocean is a spectacular yacht that boasts a 20% increase in overall volume and 25% more deck space than a comparable yacht; thanks not only to her substantial beam but her upright stem that creates a brand new Sunseeker silhouette cutting through the water.   The exterior lines of this yacht are revolutionary, allowing the ‘Beach Club’ to become an even more impressive space. This spacious deck, measuring over 6m x 4m, is perfect for family and friends to socialise close to the water. The 'Beach Club' features the Sunseeker X-TEND™ sunbed, an industry-defining feature unique to Sunseeker yachts in the 80ft plus segment. Sunseeker considers the usability of features on board in meticulous detail, allowing an effortless user interface and a stunning aesthetic feature.  Full-height glazing on the main deck and a move toward more freestanding furniture allowed Sunseeker to create a different interior feel for the 90 Ocean whilst maintaining a consistency of language in terms of material selection and an approach to luxurious practicality.  The award adds to the series of accolades the 90 Ocean has already achieved including a World Yachts Trophies Award and BOAT International Design & Innovation Award.  Sunseeker also received a nomination for the Predator 65 in the Sportscruisers over 45ft category.

Viking Supporting Veterans

State Island Yacht Sales Frank Bongiorno hosted a group of veterans for a memorable day on the water. Fishing on a Viking 58 out of Costa Rica’s Los Suenos Resort and Marina, the four anglers caught 13 tuna and three mahi on a perfect weather day. When Frank was approached by the Freedom Alliance, an organization that supports veterans in a variety of ways, he didn’t think twice. “We need to do everything we can to honor and support our veterans,” said Frank.  

Viking at 2023 Quest for Sailfish Series

Congratulations to the crew of Fish On for claiming Top Team during Operation Sailfish, Leg 1 of the 2023 Quest for the Crest Sailfish series. With captain Andrew Dotterweich at the helm of the Viking 48, owner Todd Willard released four of the team’s nine sailfish. A record 58 boats fished the tournament. The event also saw its largest Take A Hero Fishing Day, which benefits Operation Homefront. Operation Homefront’s mission is to build strong, stable and secure military families so they can thrive in the communities they have worked to protect.

Viking at Pelican Invitational Billfish Tournament

Fishing on Alan Sadler’s Viking 62 Intents, Jason Votzi wound in a 24-pound tuna to win the division at the Pelican Yacht Club Invitational Billfish Tournament. Captain Rhett Bailey was at the wheel. Greg Dublin claimed 2nd Place Tuna with a 20.25-pound fish. He was fishing on David Vatland’s Viking 54 Blue Eyes.  Joseph Valentine weighed the Third Place Dolphin while fishing on his Viking 61 Valentine. Captain Shane Diggins put him on the fish.

Viking at Los Suenos Triple Crown Series Leg One

Captain Tony Carrizosa took Team Galati to a 2nd Place finish during the first Leg #1 of the Los Suenos Signature Triple Crown Series. Fishing on a Viking 64, anglers Carmine Galati Sr., Pat Healey, Drew McDowell, Eric McDowell and Thomas “Smalls” Garmany released six marlin and 34 sailfish.  Ohana, Ed Burr’s Viking 68, tallied six marlin and 33 sailfish for 3rd Place. Leg 2 takes place in February while Leg 3 is in March. For the 2022 Series, Carlos Pellas and the team on his Viking 72 Rum Runner released 20 marlin and 41 sailfish to win The Series.

Viking at 60th Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Tournament

Joe Bernert’s Viking 72 Quick Raise kicked off the 60th annual Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Tournament with the First Release 23 minutes after lines in.  Atypical mild and warm weather kept the bite down but not the excitement. Trophy Wife, a Viking 52 owned by Jon and Kay McCann, had a slow first day with just a pair of sails for the couple. But Captain Randy Yates and the team came back strong on their second fishing day, adding nine sails to the tally for 11 total, to finish with a 2nd Place Overall Release and 1st Place Live Bait Boat. Shelby Callison’s four releases also took Top Lady Angler.  Quick Raise ended the tournament with seven sailfish, good for 3rd Place Overall Release and 2nd Place Dead Bait Boat. Jeff Feuerman’s Viking 55 No Mercy released nine sails for 2nd Place Live Bait Boat and claimed 3rd Place Meatfish with a 27.4-pound kingfish.  Joe Accardi’s Viking 92 Sir Reel finished as 3rd Place Live Bait Boat (based on time) with nine releases. The 1st Place Meatfish was awarded to Frank Mazza and his team on the Viking 72 Tami Ann with a 39.6-pound kingfish. And closing out the event was Chip Caruso’s Viking 70 Pipe Dreamer with the Last Release of the tournament.  The fleet was 42-boats strong and saw seven Vikings on the top 10 release leaderboard.