Class 1 - Istanbul Turkey Grand Prix Preview

Fifteen years after the Jolly Motor crew of Massimo Lippi and Lamberto Leoni won the first Class 1 Grand Prix to be held in Istanbul in 1998, the Championship returns for the UIM Class 1 Isiklar Turkish Grand Prix, the second event of the season, and this time to race across the Bosphorus in Pendik on 14-16 June on the Marmara Sea.
All eyes will be on the Turkish-Norwegian duo of Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski to see if the repairs carried out on their Victory built, Mercury powered Zabo-Isiklar will give them the same firepower and opportunity to continue where they left off in China, and carry the fight to Victory and go one better than their second places in qualifying at race 1 in Sanya past March.
With the ship carrying the boats from China only arriving in Istanbul at the end of May the team has faced a race against time to repair the extensive damage sustained in their dramatic first corner crash in Sanya's race 2, and be ready for driver Ugur Isik’s home Grand Prix.
However, team principal Jan Zaborowski is confident that with the comprehensive pre-repair work and preparation that they carried out in Norway, and with the time that they have spent on the boat in Turkey, they will be in good shape to build on what was the team’s best overall performance since Isik and Zaborowski teamed-up in 2011 in Abu Dhabi.
Lining-up as race favourites will be Arif Al Zaffain and Mohammed Al Marri who will be looking to extend their lead in the Championship standings and try to emulate the successes achieved by previous Victory pairings in Turkey; Ali Nasser and Randy Scism taking the chequered flag in Istanbul and in Bodrum in 1999 - Nasser winning again in Istanbul the following year with Khalfan Harib - Mohammed Al Marri winning with Saeed Al Tayer in Marmaris also in 2000.
The last event to be held in Turkey was in Izmir in 2002 and won by Spirit of Norway’s Bjorn Rune Gjelsten and Steve Curtis, and of the present day class of 2013 only Mohammed Al Marri, Giampaolo Montavoci and Ugur Isik have raced on Turkish waters.
The defending Champions are on a six-race winning streak, are unbeaten in their last four outings in qualifying and following their Sanya Grand Prix win-treble in the season-opener in March, sit 24-points clear of LFFendi10 and HUB Team Australia.
Al Zaffain and Al Marri top the Victory Team’s all-time winners table with 34 and 24 wins respectively, with five-time World Champion Al Zaffain now equal with Bjorn Rune Gjelsten and closing in on Steve Curtis’ longstanding record of 42 wins.
Two outfits who will be looking to challenge Victory and Zabo-Isiklar in Pendik-Istanbul are Italians Luca Formilli Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella in LFFendi10 and Australians Darren Nicholson and Ross Willaton in HUB Team Australia.
They enjoyed a herculean scrap and podium success in Sanya, both outfits running Victory built boats - the Italians running SCAM V12 power-plants the Aussies Victory V12s.
In race 1 the Aussies attacked and the Italians defended for six of the 10 laps - the gap never more than five seconds - but the LFFendi10 crew hung on to finish in third and take revenge on the Australian crew who had knocked them off the podium in qualifying.
They continued their dice in race 2, but the Australian duo was able to turn the tables on their Italian rivals to go on and take their second podium of the weekend - the Fendi crew settling for another third.
Formilli Fendi and Carpitella will start their 13th Grand Prix together looking for their first win from 20 race starts, with Carpitella starting his 50th race.
The team has also confirmed a revised line-up in their second boat, LFFendi8, with Italian Marco Pennesi, who made his Class 1 debut in Arendal in 2007 and last raced in Brazil in 2010, joining countryman and series newcomer Alfredo Amato who made his Class 1 debut in Sanya alongside Miles Jennings.
Team Abu Dhabi’s recent driver reshuffle takes another twist in Istanbul with the team confirming a revised line up, recalling Class 1 regular Rashed Al Tayer to resume race duties alongside rookie, Faleh Al Mansoori.
Al Tayer missed the season-opener in China but returns to start his 14th Grand Prix and for the first time in 24 race starts in Class 1 will switch over to take the throttles as he looks to add to his tally of three wins, eight podiums and one pole position.
In Sanya newcomer Al Mansoori partnered Giampaolo Montavoci in qualifying to finish a very credible fifth and then went on to race with Tomaso Polli to take fifth and fourth spots and put the team into fourth place overall in the points table.
Team D’Alessio-SCAM has yet to confirm their line up and whether or not they will stay with Gian Maria Gabbiani and Luca Nicolini for a sixth Grand Prix start together.
The duo enjoyed a solid season-opener last time out picking up five points in qualifying and matched the position with sixth in race 1. They enjoyed a solitary run and untroubled race 2 maintaining fifth place throughout, and once again proved their reliability completing their sixth straight points finish in FA.RO. ACCIAI.
DAC Racing has revealed that Turkish driver Tarik Oktem will make his Class 1 debut in Istanbul alongside Giampaolo Montavoci in Poliform.
Montavoci, a veteran of 102 Grands Prix and 113 race starts, showed and proved his versatility in Sanya, jumping in and out of two different boats to guide two rookies on their Class 1 debuts, racing with Al Mansoori in Team Abu Dhabi in qualifying and with Salim Al Adidi in races 1 & 2 in Poliform, picking up points with both.
The action on the water starts with first official practice on Friday 14 morning followed by official qualifying in the Edox Pole Position in the afternoon. Two further practice sessions are followed by races one and two on Saturday and Sunday at 15.30hrs local Turkish time.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 1
1. 3 Victory Team - 40pts 
2= 10 LFFendi10 - 24pts 
2= 7 HUB Team Australia - 24pts 
4. 5 Team Abu Dhabi - 16pts 
5. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - 15pts 
6. 23 FA.RO.ACCIAI - 12pts. 
7. 74 Poliform - 5pts
EDOX POLE POSITION CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 1
1. 3 Victory Team - 20pts 
2. Zabo-Isiklar - 15pts 
3. HUB Team Australia - 12pts 
4. LFFendi10 - 9pts 
5. Team Abu Dhabi - 7pts 
6. FA.RO.ACCIAI - 5pts
7. LFFendi8 - 4pts
www.class-1.com

New Model: Galeon 430 Skydeck

With its 420/430 series Galeon was clever to offer a three different combination model using one hull.  The 430 Skydeck is the latest of this series and stands in the middle of the offer between the 420 Fly and 430 HTC, presenting a flybridge with a sports attitude.  A trend very common in seventy plus feet yachts but less so under this size, and I think the first time that this concept is introduced in a twelve meter cruiser.  The flybridge of the 430 Skydeck also follows its sports form offering an interesting central helm, with seats which can become two sun pads or co-driver thanks to its moving back pad.  Below the 430 Skydeck as its other sisters offers a three double cabins layout, with a galley and living located on the main deck.  Power is seven engine choices from Volvo, Cummins, and Volkswagen starting at 260 and up to 400hp with stern drive, line shaft, and IPS pod propulsion options.

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.25 m (43.4ft) with optional extended bathing platform

LOA - 12.20 m without extended bathing platform

Hull Length - 11.79 m

Beam - 4.16 m

Draft - 0.80 m ex props

Displacement - 12000 kg light

Fuel Capacity - 2 x 600 l

Water Capacity - 450 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins

Max Persons - 12

Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 260hp, D4 300hp, D6 370hp, D6 400hp, Cummins QSD 4.2 350hp, QSB5.9 380hp, Volkswagen TDI 265hp

Propulsion - line shaft, Volvo forward looking IPS 500 pods, Volvo DPH Stern drive

Speed - 31 knots with Cummins 380hp and shafts

Project - Tony Castro

Certification - CE B

www.galeon.pl

Project: Absolute 52 Fly

Italy's Absolute yachts continues to present interesting new projects, with this updating its range to the latest trends.  Now Absolute presents a project for a 52 Fly which in my book should replace the 53, a further evolution of the 50, which in last year's fall also evolved as 55.  On the outside this new 52 Fly does not follow the design of these models but goes to a similar look at what Absolute is showing with its bigger 72, and soon to be launched 64.  That is a more motor yacht look with a flybridge also looking higher, mostly thanks to the more upright angled radar arch.  Inside the 52 Fly will offer three double guest cabins, with an en-suite bathroom for the full beam amidships owners room, and a guest shower head.  The main deck goes with a single step split level saloon with the forward part being dining and relaxing areas, and the entrance having the L-shaped galley to port side.  The outside of the 52 is full of spaces and interesting solutions, from the aft deck this continuing Absolute principle of offering a sun pad, and the flybridge which in my book at least on plan looks to be one of the most spacious in this size, at least to what seating and sunbathing areas are concerned.  That is saying something nowadays, would be interesting to match the square meters area of the models and what they offer.  Engines have not been announced by I can imagine it to be twin Volvo with IPS pod drives.
www.absoluteyachts.com

New Model: Delta 33 Open

In early March 2013, Delta unveiled its second model of the Open family the 33, what the Swedish yacht builder calls a cross over offer of day cruiser, walk around and family boat. The 33 Open is again a design to Ted Mannerfelt who was also responsible for the 26. Delta 33 Open offers great social spaces outdoors in a well-tailored cockpit. Inside the 33 offers an owners cabin in the bow with plenty of stowage space, a toilet with separate shower located on the starboard side, and aft we find a generous mid cabin with two berths. Up on deck we find a well-planned and space efficient longitudinal kitchenette. Aft is dining space for up to ten people. Same seating folds easily into a sun bed and then measure the entire 6 square meters. Delta 33 Open is built with the most modern vacuum technology with vinylester and divinycell using Diab core infusion technology and carbon fibre reinforced floors. In combination with cross step hull shapes Delta is promising low fuel consumption; estimated at 1.6 l nm at 30 knots.

Technical Data:

LOA - 10.7 m (35.1ft)

Hull Length - 10 m

Beam - 3.10 m

Displacement - 3800 kg

Fuel Capacity - 550 up to 800 l

Accommodation - 4 berths

Engines - 1 x Volvo D6 400hp, 2 x Volvo D3 220hp

Propulsion - single or twin Volvo duo prop stern drive

Max Speed - 43 knots

Range - 250 nm 

Construction - Infused resin with DIAB core, vinylester resin

Project - Ted Mannerfelt

www.deltapowerboats.se 

New Model: Overmarine Mangusta 94

The first unit of the brand new Overmarine Mangusta 94 model was launched on Sunday 26th May, during the morning. The event took place at a private ceremony in the presence of the owner and his wife, the shipyard management team and all those who played a part in building this new super sport yacht model in the renowned Overmarine fleet.  Mangusta 94 measures just under thirty metres in length, respecting dimensions of standard European marinas and it’s a completely new model. She is the natural next evolution in the Righini designed status symbol Mangusta maxi open yachts, perfectly combining traditional but sport lines with new features that allow greater usability of the external areas and even more comfort.  Said features include a flybridge with large cushions and a bow cockpit, where besides the sundeck, there is also a dining area with a table and divan. Another important new feature is installation of the gyroscopic stabilizers. Natural light on board is of primary importance and comes in both through the four skylights in the ceiling of the main saloon and the large window in the part of the hull by the owner area where there are also two portholes which can be opened. The side windows in the hull will become a distinctive feature on all future Mangusta models. The interior layout featuring just two cabins and the style and decoration perfectly represent the shipyard’s personalisation philosophy having been made to measure according to the Owner’s instructions and requirements. The timeless elegance of the interiors has been created by prestigious New York architect Peter Marino: the decorative abundance of rosewood, the ivory tones and the brown shades of the coverings and furnishings create a truly unique atmosphere. The second unit will already be in water in June. 

Technical Data:

LOA - 28.72 m (94.2ft)

Beam - 6.6 m

Draft - 1.6 m

Displacement - 90 t half load

Fuel Capacity - 8800 l

Water Capacity - 1400 l

Accommodation - 2 guest cabins sleeping 4, 3 crew cabins sleeping five

Engines - 2 x MTU 16v2000 M94 2600hp

Propuslion - Kamewa 56S3 water jets

Speed - 36 knots max

Range - 280 nm at cruise speed

Project - Sefano Righini exterior, Peter Marino interior, Overmarine Group Design Department

www.mangustayachts.com

Project: OceanClass 88

OceanClass showcases the project for a new 88 flagship model.  Part of the Seaway Group who follow on the wake of success Greenline has achieved, now this brand sets its sight on bigger sizes.  One of the most interesting detail of the OceanClass 88 is that it will feature five cabins with an owners suite to fore, located in a semi elevated position between the main and lower deck.  Below deck offers four double cabins, all having ensuite heads and with two VIP rooms located to starboard.  To make it short that is basically the layout you find in the one hundred feet size.  A double crew cabin is located to aft behind the engine room and in front of the storage toys room.  Power for the OceanClass is from twin 1150hp MTU engines giving a top speed of 25 knots and a cruise of 17.

www.greenlinehybrid.si

New Model: Mulder 1300 Cabrio

Mulder Shipyard in the Netherlands has delivered a new member of the renowned Favorite range. This latest Mulder 1300 Favorite Cabrio is the first convertible model in the series as well as paying tribute to be completed at the brand-new shipyard in Zoeterwoude. The classically lined Mulder 1300 Favorite Cabrio is based on the successful line reintroduced by Mulder Shipyard in 2010 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of this cruisers line which brought so much success in the past. The new entry level in all the Mulder and the Favorite line, the 1300 Cabrio was developed in close cooperation with Guido de Groot Design and Vripack Naval Architects. Characteristic features of the modern classic include the nearly straight bow and the sloping transom stern. The 1300 Favorite Cabrio is a distinctive yacht with recognizable retro lines, designed for family sailing. The custom-built 1300 serves as the perfect day-cruiser but is also very suitable for longer stays on board. The elegant 1300 Favorite Cabrio has a functional layout and provides the highest level of luxury and comfort. With her spacious cabins, light saloon, large open cockpit and subtle tender storage making it a true all-rounder.  The electrically operated convertible roof of over twelve square metres creates a unique ‘open experience’. The raised seating area in the saloon, elongated windows on both sides and glass sliding doors with electrically operated sliding windows provide unobstructed views all around. The Favorite 1300 Cabrio has an aluminium hull and superstructure.  Hull one was powered with standard twin 110hp Volvo engines and features a round-bilged hull with propeller shaft propulsion.  Optional power up to twin Volvo 330hp is available.

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.5 m (44.2ft)

Beam - 4.30 m

Draft - 1.10 m

Displacement - 14 t

Fuel Capacity - 1500 l

Water Capacity - 600 l

Accommodation - 4 berths in 2 cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D3 110hp, D6 330hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 12 knots max with Volvo 110hp
Hull Shape - round bilge

Construction - full aluminium

Project - Guido de Groot, Vripack Naval Architects

Certification - CE B

www.muldershipyard.nl 

Project: Viking 42 SC

Creating a model within a model has been a successful path for Viking as demonstrated by the 42 Convertible and Open, which share the same hull with uniquely different deck and interior arrangements. The popularity of these new models has encouraged Viking to expand this theme with a pair of new 42s with striking profiles and special features that showcase Viking’s ability to broaden the appeal of this versatile hull.  Using its five-axis profile, Viking designed and built a plug and a female mold to create a rakish fiberglass deck house module, fully open to the cockpit while incorporating stylish convertible window lines, and the roof overhang and cabin trails. Here comes the 42 SC which has a distinctive New England flavor and includes a choice of a custom fiberglass mast for the radar and other antennas, or a customized radar arch. Each model can be further personalized with dramatic paint schemes to add ones own signature.  The 42 SC sport the familiar twin mezzanine cockpit of the 42 Open, along with the practical and feature full bridge deck and a center console station with the available teak finish helm pod, flanking lounge seating, and an inviting interior with teak joinery, a master stateroom forward, and twin berths aft separated by the salon, the head, and galley. The Viking 42 SC is powered by 600hp Cummins diesels with ZF Zeus pod drives.

www.vikingyachts.com

New Model: VanDutch 55

For the its new flagship VanDutch 55 made its course of action very simple, follow the lines of the much praised 40 model. Designed again by Frank Mulder the office of the Dutch naval architect follows the silhouette of the smaller VanDutch inspired by classic sport boat lines; see the straight bow inspired by the U-boat, or the flash fore deck.  Benefiting from the extra size now at 55 feet, the new Van Dutch flagship offers many more amenities, including its immense sun bathing area in the aft exterior deck, an exterior retractable dining zone perfectly protected by the expansive windshield, and the new addition of an electric bimini.  The extra size of the VanDutch 55 versus its smaller sisters also transforms into an open yacht  able to accommodate four or six guests for a couple of weeks cruise.  Power is from twin Yanmar 900hp engines which give max speeds up to 38 knots.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.76 m (54.8ft)

Waterline Length - 15.5 m

Beam - 4.50 m

Draft - 1.10 m

Fuel Capacity - 2500 l

Water Capacity - 600 l

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

Engines - 2 x Yanmar 8SY 900hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 38 knots max, 24 knots economic fast cruise

Range - 400 nm at 24 knots cruise

Project - Frank Mulder, VanDutch interior

Certification - CE B

www.vandutch.com

Project: Prestige 720 Yacht

It was a question of when it will happen, that Prestige launched a new flagship and extend the size from what its current largest model the 620.  The Prestige 720 extends the French brand part of the Beneteau Group by ten feet and presents also a new set of looks and an innovative interior layout.  From a certain point of view designers Garroni, and JandJ try to keep modern classic in the 720, a Prestige teem since the brand was part of Jeanneau, but then the side view window just under the shear line give a touch of current times.  Who knows may be this window will also give a new position to the owners room in the 720?  The main deck layout of the 720 follows what Prestige is also doing in its smaller models following latest trends of locating the galley, and also dining area in this case astern.  Forward to this is a more relaxing area, and a helm to port side just as in smaller yachts comes in front to this, with no dividing partition. Below the design team and Prestige get creative putting the owners stateroom in an unusual position in this size and a higher altitude to fore, with the rest of the three guest cabins located behind it and to a lower level.  Unusually the VIP suite in the 720 is a full beam amidships cabin.  A crew cabin sleeping two is located to aft.  Power is from MAN engines and start at 800, 1000, or 1200hp options.  Max speeds estimated are 28 knots.       

www.prestige-yachts.com