Fire in Lake Grapevine Marina Damages Ten Boats Injures One Man

One man was injured as ten boats sustained totalled to moderate damage in a fire which broke out at Silverlake Marine, Lake Grapevine, Texas at 13:20 of Sunday thirteen October.  The fire is reported to have started on one of the boats as it was trying to start an engine which resulted in an explosion and then spreading to the other nearby boats.  Grapevine Fire Department responded to the fire, and were assisted in fighting the blaze by Flower Mound, Bedford, Lewisville, North Richland Hills, Colleyville, DFW Airport, Euless, and Hurst Fire Fighting agencies.  The injured man is reported to have a broken leg and head injuries as four of the boats were reported totalled in the damage, while six sustained some important damage.

One of the boats in this fire, first to left is a Regal 28 Express, which with the wind moving left to right in the picture probably is the boat which started the fire.  The second boat looks like an explorer type cruiser, similar to a Nordhavn of about thirteen meters.

New Model: Absolute Navetta 53

Absolute present the Navetta 53, its latest new model and a replacement to the Navetta 52 after a since 2016 eight year production run. The new Navetta 53 represents a leap forward in design and liveability, offering the comfort typically found in larger yachts. Its unique style is distinguished by elegant open gunwales and expansive windows that create a sophisticated profile while ensuring spectacular views. Each detail reflects Absolute’s artisanal craftsmanship, combining exquisite finishes and minimalist geometries in a color palette ranging from cream to hazelnut, with matte tones. These refined design touches harmoniously blend with the robust structure, providing an unparalleled visual and aesthetic experience. One of the main strengths of the Navetta 53 is its extraordinary liveability: spacious areas and large windows offer undisturbed view to the surrounding environment, while the carefully designed layout ensures ease of movement, with minimal steps, high ceilings, and space-saving sliding doors. The cockpit terrace is a versatile and spacious area, ideal for hosting guests from dawn to dusk. This space can be customized with modular furnishings, providing the freedom to adapt the environment to your needs. The glass aft parapet offers spectacular views, while the illuminated pathways at the bow enhance safety and ambiance. The flybridge, equipped with a central command post and comfortable sofas, offers breath taking views and an enriched sailing experience with a range of comforts, perfect for relaxing dinners and unforgettable moments. The main salon of the Navetta 53, with its 360-degree panoramic view, envelops guests in an embrace of light and space. The elegant environment features carefully curated furnishings and a well-equipped kitchen, seamlessly integrated with the cockpit. The modern and ergonomic command post offers a high level of technology and a convenient side door for autonomous manoeuvres. The full-beam master cabin, located amidships, features large windows, a queen-size bed, and ample storage options. The forward VIP cabin and the third central cabin, both generously illuminated by natural light, reflect the same attention to comfort and design, ensuring a pleasant and luxurious stay. The Absolute Navetta 53 is powered by twin Volvo 480hp with IPS pod drives propulsion.

Technical Data:

LOA - 15.98 m (52.5ft)

Waterline Length - 13.6 m

Beam - 4.65 m

Draft - 1.5 m full load

Displacement - 26,190 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 2000 l

Water Capacity - 600 l

Max Persons - fourteen

Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, one crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 480hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS650 dual propeller pod drives

Speed - 21 knots

Project - Absolute Research Lab

Certification - CE B

www.absoluteyachts.com

Project: Benetti B.Loft 65M

During the 2024 Monaco Yacht Show, Benetti was full guns blazing as it presented three interesting future projects, two of which in the large fifty meters plus segment.  The three of these largest projects, is this B.Loft 65M, which also introduced the new B.Loft range.  Designed according to new architectural criteria, B.Loft is a project by Cassetta Yacht Designers for Benetti, one that brings a contemporary residential feel to a super yacht. The new B.Loft introduces the Cabana on the lower deck, a revolutionary feature that redefines the beach club concept. This panoramic area offers a 270-degree view, with fold-down wings that expand the space further. B.Loft combines the volumes of a villa with the luminosity of a loft. The interiors are characterised by ceilings that are about four metres high, while the immense outdoor areas, some of which can be converted into interiors that provide the ultimate in flexibility and customisation options. So far Benetti has not disclosed much details of the B.Loft 65M, but expect the usual steel hull aluminium super structure and a displacement hull with speeds in the mid teens.  

www.benettiyachts.com

Hurricane Milton 2024

Hurricane Milton was an extremely powerful and devastating Atlantic hurricane which became the second-most intense tropical cyclone ever recorded over the Gulf of Mexico, behind only Hurricane Rita from 2005. Milton made landfall on the west coast of the U.S. state of Florida, less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated the state's Big Bend region. The thirteenth named storm, ninth hurricane, fourth major hurricane, and second Category 5 hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, Milton was the strongest tropical cyclone worldwide in 2024 so far and the strongest hurricane to make landfall in the Tampa Bay area since 1921. Milton formed from a long-tracked tropical disturbance that originated in the western Caribbean Sea and consolidated in the Bay of Campeche on October 5. Gradual intensification occurred as it slowly moved eastward, becoming a hurricane early on October 7. Later that day, Milton underwent explosive intensification and became a Category 5 hurricane with winds of 156 knots. At peak intensity, it had a pressure of 897 millibars, making it the fifth-most intense Atlantic hurricane on record. Milton fluctuated in intensity after an eyewall replacement cycle, re-intensifying into a Category 5 hurricane the following day. Increasing wind shear caused the hurricane to weaken as it turned northeast towards Florida, falling to Category 3 before making landfall near Siesta Key late on October 9. Afterwards, Milton rapidly weakened as it moved across the state into the Atlantic Ocean, and became extratropical on October 10 as it became embedded within a frontal zone. The remnants gradually weakened and passed near the island of Bermuda before dissipating on October 12. 

Ahead of the hurricane, Florida declared a state of emergency in which many coastal residents were ordered to evacuate. Preparations were also undertaken in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. The hurricane spawned a deadly tornado outbreak and caused widespread flooding in Florida.  Hurricane Milton killed at least 26 people: 23 in the United States and three in Mexico. Preliminary damage estimates are to be at least US$30 billion.

Marina 1 in Punta Gorda, was the most single hit marina with over a dozen yachts sank and or with important damage.

M/y Indigo a 2015 Marlow 88 seems to be the most high profile of the damaged yachts from Hurricane Milton.

Here is three grounded boats, a Chris Craft aft cabin and Hatteras sportfish in Manasota Key.  Two nearby boats a Sea Ray and Post sportfish also partly sank.

More damage from the storm surge at Manasota Key, above and below as boats end on the terraces of nearby homes. 

New Model: AB Yachts 110

AB Yachts has in Summer 2024 launched its new 110 model.  A current second in size model for the jet powered super sport yacht specialist, who here set in motion a stylistic evolution with the forward raked windshield marking an updated design element.  With a length over all of just under 34 meters the new AB Yachts 110 is characterised by the pleasant, charming interiors of a loft as designed by Marco Casamonti, which give unmatched conviviality along with stylish sporty lines, elegantly-finished details, and all-pervading brightness, while at the same time being able to run fast over forty knots with unmatched stability and trim, and thanks to her limited less to two meters draft from the jet propulsion can reach even the most secluded bays. This is, in short, the new AB110, taking and evolving the AB Yachts story to the next step. The new 110 embodies a brand-new concept of space, while the raked forward windshield extends the sport bridge and onboard liveability offering a wonderful outlook over the sea, while the exteriors and interiors flow smoothly into one another in a soft, fluid design. The spatial revolution has also involved the lounge areas; flybridge, forward, and aft; as the later can convert into a generous beach area that ensures the closest possible contact with the sea.  As cabin lounging goes, this is all located on the main deck, with this offering a central dining area for eight, a C-shaped saloon, central open galley, central triple seat pilot station, a day head located to port side.  Another option also exists here to move the galley down forward of the lower deck before the entry to the crew area, with this leaving the main deck dedicated to lounging.  With the lower deck galley version the forward VIP suite would be about 40% smaller and located to starboard.  Sleeping accommodation in the AB Yachts 110 offers four double guest suites, with a master stateroom at midships, and a VIP suite forward.  Forward of the lower deck is the crew area with two cabins sleeping four and a small L-shaped dinette.  The first AB Yachts 110 is powered by triple Man 2000hp for top speed up to 43 knots with a cruise of 38, allowing for a range up to 460 nautical miles. 

Technical Data:

LOA - 33.70 m (110.2ft)

Beam - 6.80 m

Draft - 1.30 m

Displacement - 100 t, 178gt *volume

Fuel Capacity - 11,500 l

Water Capacity - 2000 l

Accommodation - eight/ or ten guests in four cabins, four crew in two cabins

Engines - 3 x Man V12 2000hp

Propulsion - MJP water jets (2 by steerable, central one booster)

Speed - 43 knots max, 38 cruise

Range - 460 nautical miles at 38 knots cruise

Construcion - vacuum bagged sandwich with Divinycell core, Vinylester Epoxy resin and carbon kevlar reinforcement

Project - Mario Casamonti studio Archea for interior

Certification - RINA Cross of Malta hull Mach Y unrestricted navigation pleasure

www.abyachts.com

Previous Trump Owned Super Yacht Crashes Into Marina Bizerte Pier

The 85 meter Benetti super yacht m/y Kingdom 5kr has collided with the outside berth pier at Marina Bizerte, to the North of Tunisia, on 12:30 afternoon of Friday eleven October.  Kingdom 5kr was reported doing manoeuvring operation to berth for fuelling, when for an unknown reason the super yacht lost control, and collided its bow into the East looking outside berth pier of the marina.  With the collision Kingdom 5kr sustained damage to its lower bow section.  The area of the collision has since then been closed to the public as the Bizerte Maritime Guard opened an investigation on the cause of the incident.

Kingdom 5kr is a custom Benetti 85 meters hull number FB116 from 1980 designed by Jon Bannenberg for exterior and interior by Luigi Sturchio. Named m/y Nabila at launch, in 1980 FB116 was the largest super yacht in the World, and is famous for appearing in the 1983 James Bond Never Say Never Again movie, but also for being owned by four high profile billionaires, including from 1988 to 1991 by 45th USA President Donald Trump then named as m/y Trump Princess.

Project: Sunseeker 94 Yacht

Sunseeker is thrilled to announce the 94 Yacht project, an innovative pocket super yacht; with length over-all of just over 28 meters and a load line of under 24.  Announced at the annual Sunseeker Cannes press conference the 94 Yacht project is set to join its 23 to thirty meter four model Yacht range, as a replacement to the since 2016 produced 41 units delivered 95 Yacht.  The 94 Yacht is designed as a floating sanctuary and introduces a fresh interior aesthetic with a carefully curated palette unique to Sunseeker, bringing refinement and harmony to every space. Special attention has also been given to the guest and owner accommodation, with advanced noise insulation ensuring a peaceful and comfortable environment for all on board.  The Sunseeker 94 Yacht is to be equipped with twin 2000hp MTU engines supplied as standard and a maximum speed of to 26 knots.  The interior design of the 94 Yacht showcases Sunseeker’s dedication to luxury and detail, what is a semi-wide body design offering an owners stateroom forward of the main deck, and four guest suites on the lower deck. The extensive collection of fabrics, linings and finishes are designed to complement one another, allowing for a bespoke, stylish interior that reflects the owner's personal taste. The Sunseeker Platinum collection offers durable, high-quality upholstery, including natural leathers, cotton, and wool fabrics, perfect for seating and dining areas.  The exterior of the 94 Yacht is as impressive as its interior, featuring a semi-concealed anchoring arrangement and a Besenzoni passerelle. An integrated tender recovery system suitable for up to four meters and an optional jet ski launch system ensure convenience and versatility for water sports enthusiasts. The hydraulic rise-and-fall platform, capable of lifting up to 1,000kg, provides easy access to the water and supports a tender weighing up to 950kg.  Additional features include Sunseeker’s industry-leading X-Tend™ sunbed system that transforms the lower aft deck into a luxurious sunbathing area as well as multiple canopy options for the flybridge offering shade and comfort for those on board. The flybridge is equipped with a wet bar, ice maker and BBQ grill, ideal for outdoor entertaining. Owners will be involved in the customisation of the 94 Yacht, having the possibility to choose among a wide range of optional upgrades, including advanced navigation stations, enhanced wet bar facilities, and refrigeration tailored for more tropical climates. The crew quarters with space for four persons are designed for functionality and comfort, complete with modern amenities and ample storage space.

www.sunseeker.com

New Model: Pardo GT75

For the fall 2024 boat show season Pardo debuted its new GT75 flagship model, as it World launched at the Cannes Yachting Festival in early September.  Designed by Nauta for exterior and interior, with naval architecture by Zuccheri the GT75 expands Pardo size by six meters from the previous E60 flagship.  The GT75 shows Pardo intent to go into larger sizes, and aims to continue the successful growth and expansion of the last seven years, as the Italian yacht maker aims to make a name into the twenty meter segment of the sporty side of the market, with three further models coming from 65 to 75 foot in the coming year or so.  For the GT75 Nauta continues Pardo successful design language, presenting a sport yacht that looks modern without trying hard.  It's an interesting recipe, which since the 43 debut in 2017 has worked well for Pardo, dominating the Euro-Walk-around eleven to fifteen meter sizes.  As in all things though being good looking alone is not enough to make a buyer part with his millions, so the Pardo GT75 comes also with a very flexible semi-custom build, with two aft deck options for an aft tender garage or beach club option, two galley up or not main deck layouts, and five; two to four cabins lower deck choices.  It's an impressive list of choices, and one which aims to cater for many type of owners.  As an example the Cannes presented hull one was a garage aft deck with a private and personal two cabins galley down and dinette layout.  The Pardo GT75 is standard powered by triple Volvo 800hp with IPS pod drives and or optional 1000hp engines, this last giving top speeds up to 35 knots.    

Technical Data:

LOA - 22.85 m (74.9ft)

Hull Length - 22.8 m

Beam - 5.99 m

Draft - 1.65 m

Displacement - 48.3 t

Fuel Capacity - 4300 l

Water Capacity - 1100 l

Max Persons - twenty

Accommodation - four guests in two cabins, 6 in 3 cabins, 8 in 4 cabins, 

Engines - 3 x Volvo D13 800hp, D13 1000hp

Propulsion - triple Volvo IPS1050/1350 forward looking dual propeller pod drives

Speed - 35 knots max 30 cruise with triple Volvo 1000hp *estimates

Range - 350 nautical at fast cruise *estimates

Project - Nauta exterior and interior, Zuccheri naval architecture

Certification - CE B20/C24

www.pardoyachts.com

Project: Toy Marine 72

Toy Marine presents the project for a 72 flagship model.  A replacement to the 68, of which she is based on with identical beam and similar looks, the 72 is to feature a sloop stern with an integrated bathing platform against the squarish more traditional with bolted bathing platform of the previous flagship.  The Toy 72 comes with two choices for both the main and lower deck, with the choice being tight down to the other, and around a galley up or down in a larger crew area, and an owners stateroom forward or at midships.  In the galley down version, the crew area will also feature a larger cabin with two bunk berths, and also offer a small dinette for two to starboard.  The guest cabin area is smaller in the galley down option, offering one larger owners stateroom forward, and two identical guest cabins at midships with twin berths at midships.  In the galley up version we have a smaller single berth crew cabin, owners stateroom at midships, with a VIP suite forward, and a guest cabin with twins to port side.   Also designed by Nauta the Toy Marine 72, is to be powered by twin Volvo 900hp engines with IPS pod drives, with top speed up to 32 knots and a cruise of 28.

www.toymarine.it

New Model: BB Yachts Ischia 44

BB Yachts is a new French-Italian boat builder which debuted this year with two sport cruiser models based on the same 44 platform and designed by Ferragni, both World wide presented at the 2024 Genoa boat show.  As a first BB Yacht here on PowerYachtBlog we present the Ischia 44 the more traditional raised fore-deck of the two models.  The fore deck is the difference between this Ischia and the other Panarea 44.  Unlike most new offers in this fourteen meter size, BB Yachts is not a walk-around sport cruiser, but a clean lined modern open sport cruiser with a wide body cockpit deck, no side deck aimed to make the best of the four meters plus of beam.  With the wide body, the BB Yachts 44 offers a very spacious cockpit with a central corridor, offering two side lounges mini sun-pads, two C-shape dinettes, and a central helm station.  To the sides of the helm station is a wet-bar, located to port side, while to starboard is an opening windscreen which take to the fore-deck and its sunbed area.  Down below the BB Yachts Ischia 44 offers a sleeping area with an accommodation for four persons, with a double berth forward, and separate cabin at midships sleeping two.  BB Yachts is powered by twin Cummins 355hp as standard, with two other options of 425 and 550hp and line shaft propulsion.  As speeds go these go from 29 from the standard 355hp to 38 knots from the big 550hp.  An outboard version is also offered with triple 400, 450, and 500hp choices.  No speed data is offered for the outboards but expect it to be at forty knots plus. 

Technical Data:

LOA - 14.25 m (46.7ft)

Hull Length - 12.99 m

Beam - 4.15 m

Draft - 1.2 m including propellers

Displacement - 15 t full load, 13.7 t unloaded

Fuel Capacity - 2 x 650 l

Water Capacity - 350 l

Max Persons - twelve

Accommodation - four berths

Engines - 2 x Cummins QSB 6.7 355hp, QSB 6,7 425hp, QSB 6.7 550hp

Propulsion - V-drive line shaft

Speed - 29 knots max 25 cruise with Cummins 355, 38 max 30 cruise with 550hp

Range - up to 350 nautical miles at 25 knots and Cummins 355hp

Construction - hand lamination Vinylester resin single skin hull and quadri-axial fiberglass, balsa core sandwich for hull sides, PVC core sandwich and E-glass for upper structure

Project - Ferragni

Certification - CE B

www.bb-yachts.com