Class 1 - Italy Grand Prix 2011 Preview

Ten boats will line up on Italy’s Lake Como this week, October 14-16 when Cernobbio hosts the Italian Grand Prix, round 3 of the UIM Class 1 World Powerboat Championship and the title decider for the 2011 European Championship.

Whilst it is not the first time that Class 1 has graced the waters of Lake Como, the late Bruno Abbate organising a special event in October 1987 which was won by former Italian tennis champion Adriano Panatta it is a first for hosts Cernobbio and the first time that the fleet rolls out for an official round of the World Championship.

Victory’s Arif Al Zafeen and Nadir bin Hendi lead the World Championship standings and will be intent on retaining their European crown, but the defending Champions will have to come from behind and overturn a five point deficit to do so, after losing out to their arch-rivals Spirit of Qatar 96 in Norway.

The Emirati-duo, who won the season-openers in Abu Dhabi, have won three out of the last four races in Italy, and will be looking for their 24th career-wins to extend Victory Team’s enviable record on Italian water’s, winning 14-times in 13 years, their [team] first win coming in 1993 in Ischia.

The return of the Spirit of Qatar Team has added spice to the Championship as their rivalry with their Middle East cousins intensifies on and off the water. Sheikh Hassan and Steve Curtis’ victory in Norway ended their 12-race win-drought, and they now go in search of their first major Class 1 title together - Curtis hunting down a record fifth European crown and Sheikh Hassan a second, on what will be his 50th Grand Prix outing. The team has made one or two upgrades and worked on modifications to improve performance, specifically acceleration which Curtis believes is crucial for the type of courses being run these days.

But Sheikh Hassan and Curtis will also need to keep very close tabs on teammates Ali Al Neama and Matteo Nicolini - who lines up for his 100th Grand Prix and the last Italian to win a major Class 1 trophy lifting the European title in 2005 - who have out-gunned them in both qualifying sessions this season and sit behind them in the standings, after taking two podium finishes.

Two outfits looking to end a long and well overdue wait for an Italian win on home waters - the last by Edoardo Polli and Lamberto Leoni in Tarranto in 1997 - are DAC Racing and Fendi Racing; Guido Cappellini and Giampaolo Montavoci lead the all-Italian challengers in the World and European title races and, after carrying out further modifications to their DAC 40 Poliform, will be looking to improve on their fourth place in Norway and step-up to challenge for their first win together.

Fendi Racing’s first outing with their new Outerlimits boat-engine package did not give Luca Formilli Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella the performance or results they were expecting, with the team announcing an immediate switch of engine supplier after only one outing with the Outerlimits Powertrain SCI 850 V8s, confirming that they have signed an agreement with SCAM Technology to run their 8.2litre V12 engines, stating that the American engines need a further period of development.

Further Italian interest will focus on GiorgiOffshore, who return to racing with an upgraded boat after missing the last event, with Nicola Giorgi lining-up alongside Sandro Sardelli in MITI Tech Power, the partnership teaming-up for the first time in Abu Dhabi in 2010, taking two fifth place finishes.

Team D’Alessio-SCAM make their first appearance in the Championship with the experienced Luca Nicolini, who made his Class 1 debut in 1993 and has 14 starts under his belt, taking two podium finishes in 2007, on the throttles in the Victory built, V12 powered FA.RO. ACCIAI., with Belgium’s Frank Hemelaer set to make his Class 1 driving debut.

Team Abu Dhabi has announced an eleventh-hour call-up for F1H2O star Ahmed Al Hameli who steps in to substitute for Rashed Al Tayer, forced to sit out the event after picking up an injury at a Jet Ski event in America. Al Hameli, who made his Class 1 debut in 2009, teams-up with fellow-Emirati Majed Al Mansoori - both making just their second Grand Prix starts in Class 1.

An unexpected announcement by Welmax Offshore Racing sees a revised driver line-up with the 2010 Edox Pole Position Champions Kolbjorn Selmer and Jorn Tandberg stepping aside and Bjorge Jacobsen and Kurt Olsen stepping in to take over race duties. The team has also opted to run the Maritimo hull over the MTI, retaining the name Welmax.

Zabo Racing’s Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski will be looking to improve on their performances after picking up just ten points from three outings in Relekta, and will arrive in Italy confident that they can turn things around. Team principal Jan Zaborowski has confirmed that they have made considerable modifications to the Victory hull, which they debuted in Norway, and that they will be in good shape in Italy.

The Grand Prix weekend gets underway with first official practice at midday on Friday. A second practice session, qualifying in the Edox Pole Position and race 1 take place on Saturday, with a final practice session on Sunday morning followed by race 2 in the afternoon.

www.class-1.com

Engine: MTU 16V 2000 M94 2599hp

Tognum presented a new  MTU Series 2000 marine engine at the Cannes boat show.  The Series 2000 M94 marine engine boasts the highest performance values in its class and an improved power-to-weight ratio. An increase of up to 8 percent in power output has been achieved over the previous model. The 16-cylinder version,  has a power of 2599hp or 1,940 kW range at 2,450 rpm.  With respect to fuel consumption at cruising speed and generation of higher charge pressures at lower rpms, turbocharger performance has been enhanced, key to shortening acceleration time on seagoing vessels. On top of that, the unit meets all emissions standards applying to marine engines worldwide and comes automatically equipped with a SOLAS (Safety of Life At Sea) certificate. To ensure that the surface temperature of the engine never exceeds 220°C, the M94 also features double-walled fuel lines and triple-walled, water-cooled turbocharger and exhaust gas lines. That helps keep the temperature in the engine room relatively low, which in turn enhances comfort and safety. The M94 is also an exceptionally quiet engine, boasting extremely low sound pressure levels when idle or at low speeds.  The 2000 M94 is also to be available in 8, 10, and 12 cylinders versions with horsepower output starting from 1246hp.

www.mtu-online.com

Project: Princess V57

Princess presents another exciting new project model the V57.  This project is the latest edition to their sports V Class range and is a replacement to the V56 and is set to launch in middle 2012.  Unlike its replacement model, the V57 will feature a main deck saloon with triple sliding doors which connect beautifully to the aft cockpit, this featuring a U-shaped settee and teak table, with a large sunbed beneath which is a tender garage for a three meter Jet Rib. There is also an electric hydraulic platform as standard for easy launch and recovery of the tender.  Down below, the use of space and ingenious design give the V57 a clever three double cabins layout. The galley is stylishly equipped and finished, and the three light-filled cabins all have spacious en-suite bathrooms in standard form, but there is also the choice of having an L-shaped saloon replacing the third head below. The owner’s stateroom is positioned to midships where it enjoys full beam status, the starboard guest cabin has two full size single bunk berths, while the forward double cabin can be fitted with optional scissor berths which change to a twin.  Power is from twin Volvo in standard 800hp or optional 900 choice, giving top speeds up to 36 knots.

www.princessyachts.com

New Model: Monte Carlo Yachts MCY65

A year after launching its first model Monte Carlo yachts the head lining motor yacht brand of Beneteau Group, presents the second of the range with MCY65.  Designed again by Italian firm from Venice Nuvolari and Lenard, the MCY65 continues the family feeling both inside and outside presented with the first Monte Carlo Yachts model the MCY76.  Again the Italian designers presented very hybrid external looks with what is a bit explorer, traditional, and ends its result as one of the most contemporary yachts in the market today.  A spacious three cabins lower deck, plus double crew cabin aft serves the MCY65.  The living deck is a split level saloon, with the MCY65 also featuring the much appreciated astern galley which also serves the cockpit and becomes a convivial area.  There is also an innovative office desk behind the helm to starboard side.  The flybridge continues the feel of space and a light weight carbon made hard top covered area which is practicable, and most of all looks stylish.  Impressive the performance not for its speed but for the not so big power 1000hp MAN engines which give a 31 knots max.

Technical Data:

LOA - 19.68 m (64.5ft)

Hull Length - 18.28 m

Beam - 5.20 m

Displacement - 28 t dry, 33 t loaded

Fuel Capacity - 3500 l

Water Capacity - 750 l

Engines - 2 x MAN V8 1000hp

Speed - 31 knots max, 27 knots cruise

Project - Nuvolari Lenard

Certification - CE A

www.montecarloyachts.it

Project: Marlow 61 Explorer Mk.2

Marlow is pleased to announce ongoing and continuous development upon its original series of explorer yachts, and presents the project of the 61 Explorer Mk.2.  Currently, the first 61 Explorer MK2 version of its popular 53C -61E series is under construction with a complete re-design while keeping the hallmarks of the original proven hull’s performance and sea keeping. She will make her debut at the 2012 Miami International Boat Show.  This new design features two massive staterooms below deck with a large foyer between the VIP and Master stateroom. This optional layout is perfect for the cruising couple who want to skipper their boat on their own along with having an occasional cruising couple on board. There is a crew quarter aft, with a double and single bunk, for those who prefer to have an on board captain and mate.  The salon is spacious yet cozy for very comfortable cruising and entertaining on board while the starboard built in desk allows you to continue your office work while away from home. The pilothouse station forward of the galley allows guests to gather at the settee with fold down leaf teak table for coffee and casual dining.  Her stunning interior will feature teak and holly high gloss floors throughout. The flybridge has an L shaped settee with BBQ cabinet offering another casual dining atmosphere.  For the tinkerers on board, there is a built in workbench and separate toolbox within the engine room.  Marlow Yachts enjoy the highest rating available under CE Ocean Class yachts but also feature “unrestricted navigation” certificates issued by Bureau Veritas.

www.marlowexplorer.com

New Model: Bavaria 31 Sport

Bavaria presented its latest edition of the Sport line with the 31 launched officially at the Interboot in Germany.  With the 31 Sport, the line is now complete and all the motor boats are made to a design of BMW Group Designworks USA, from the entry level 28, to the 46 Deep Blue flagship.  The 31 features a spacious six berth lower deck plan, with an open plan layout sleeping four to fore, and a separate double cabin to midships.  You also have a galley, and separate shower head.  But to be fair to the competition the 31 Sport does measure over all over 33 feet.  Power options are seven, single to twin engines choice from Volvo or Mercruiser, Diesel and Petrol, from 330 up to twin 320hp.

Technical Data:

LOA - 10.06 m (33ft)

Hull Length - 9.61 m

Beam - 3.31 m

Draft - 1.21 m with drives down

Displacement - 5470 kg unloaded

Fuel Capacity - 520 l

Water Capacity - 150 l

Accommodation - 4 + 2 berths

Max Persons - 8

Engines - 1 x Volvo D6 330hp, D6 370hp, 2 x D3 220hp, D4 260hp

Petrol Gas 2 x Mercruiser 5.0 MPI DTS 260hp, 377 Mag DTS 320hp, Volvo 5.7 GXIE EVC 320hp

Propulsion - Volvo DPS, DPH, Mercruiser Bravo III dual prop stern drive

Project - BMW Group Designworks USA

Certification - CE B

www.bavaria-yachtbau.com

New Model: Innovazioni Progetti 44 Mira SC

Innovazioni Progetti from Ravenna, Italy continue to update there range and present the 44 Mira SC.  This model replaces the open or optional T-top which was the 44 Mira, and features some cool technical innovations in the hardtop, and choice as an important part of its package.  The 44 Mira SC hardtop is innovative because apart opening up top, has also a windscreen movement which allows more fresh natuiral air circulation to pass, surround the cockpit. Inside the 44 Mira SC is offered in two versions from a standard three cabins two heads plan, or a two suites versions plus a day head layout. The exterior cockpit is a split level area, with two side corridors leading from the bathing platform to a centre located dinette with two bench seat looking opposite each other, and helm station.  Power is from Volvo stern drive, or Cummins engines with ZF Zeus aft looking pod drives.

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.78 m (45.2ft)

Beam - 4.40 m

Displacement - 15,000 kg

Fuel Capacity - 2 x 550 l

Water Capacity - 385 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 4 berths in 2 cabins

Max Persons - 12

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 400hp, Cummins 500hp

Propulsion - Volvo dual prop stern drive, ZF Zeus dual propeller pods

Project - Michele Carnevale

Certification - CE B

www.ipyachts.com

Project: Ferretti 690

 

Ferretti Yachts presents the project of the 690, a replacement model of the 660 set to launch by the middle of 2012.  As in the latest models launched by Ferretti the 690 project sees again designer Zuccon and the Ferretti AYT take an aggressive sports line for a flybridge motor yacht, with unusual window patterns, and a  innovative radar satellite placement area.  This last makes maximum use of all the flybridge for entertainment purposes. The 690 will follow the Ferretti 620 in the stern design too, which is clean and left uncluttered thanks to a hidden crane davit, and an invisible passarelle strictly used for passengers.  Down below is a choice for two layouts with three or four double cabins.  All interior finishing is in grey oak.  The main deck saloon is a single level area with the astern galley, C-shaped sofa, and dining area, and helm to port side.  The astern galley which was presented on the 630 is now here being used in its maximum size.  In the three cabin area  there is a change in the stairs which lead from the main deck, and the space is won over by a lobby, and a separate shower room for the VIP suite.  Power is from twin MAN 1000 or optional 1200hp with top speeds being of 31 knots with the large engine option. 

www.ferretti-yachts.com

New Model: Codecasa 51.mt C116

The Italian shipyards Codecasa have just launched another wonderful jewel of the sea in the Codecasa 51 series. On past 24th of September 2011 Codecasa construction number 116 of 51 meters named Motor Yacht Aldabra touched the sea for the very first time. Aldabra is an elegant aluminium super structure, with steel hull and a displacement shape underwater sections. Her modern profile offers three decks plus an entertainment fly deck.  As to what regards accommodation the Codecasa C.116 will offer five guest staterooms, plus an owners apartment on the main deck.  Crew cabins are four, all with twin bunks berths plus two double cabins for the captain, and the chief engineer.  An other important feature is also a guest elevator which serves all the four floors of the 51 meters super yacht. Power is from twin 2447hp Cat engines which give a light load top speed of 17 knots, and an economic cruise of 14, this in return give 4000 nautical miles of range before needing to refuel.

Technical Data:

LOA - 51 m (167.3ft)

Beam - 9.50 m

Draft - 3.30 m

Displacement - 565 t, gross 630 t

Fuel Capacity - 90000 l

Water Capacity - 18000 l

Accommodation - Owners suite, 5 guest cabin, 1 captains double cabin, 5 crew cabins sleeping ten

Engines - 2 x Cats 3516B 2447hp

Propulsion - line shafts

Speed - 17 knots max, 16 knots cruise, 14 knots economic

Range - 4000 nm at 14 knots

Construction - Hull in high tensile steel AH36, super structure in aluminium 5083 H111/321

Certification - Lloyd's Register 100A1, SSC 'Yacht' Mono G6 LMC, Full MCA Compliant

www.codecasayachts.com

Project: Overmarine Mangusta 130

Overmarine Group presents the project for a soon to launch new Mangusta 130 that, in this case, will replace the previous model. As the smaller and bigger sisters the new Mangusta 130 is designed by Stefano Righini.  Long time collaborator of this famous Italian status symbol big open super sport yacht builder founded in 1985.  The new Mangusta 130 main difference to the previous model is the adding of a sports flybridge that will offer an additional social area without influencing the aggressive exterior lines that characterize this model.  This change also presents a difference to the super structure and the radar arch.  Additional changes are also coming from the view windows with the new model having four extra vertical port holes on each side. In the past Overmarine build a Mangusta 130 S, launched in only one unit which featured a large spacious flybridge but did not look as sleek as the standard model.  This new second in size large Mangusta basically joins the concepts of both the 130's without loosing the sleek sports profile of the lines. 

www.mangustayachts.com