Project: CRN 40 meters Conero

CRN presents a new line of yachts whose names recall the great tradition of the shipyard, which celebrated its fiftieth anniversary in 2013; Conero, build in the seventies from the Ancona builder. Designed by Zuccon, CRN is presenting two projects of this new Conero line a 40 and a 44 meters. A displacement super yacht with bulb, made of steel and aluminum, forty meters in length and a beam width of of eight, within five hundred gross tonnage, whose project design was developed by CRN Engineering and designed by Studio Zuccon International Project.  The project includes the most important features that identify the CRN super yachts worldwide: a transatlantic range, designed and manufactured to the high standards that are recognized worldwide by the nautical industry; RINA and MCA classification, large internal volumes and a balcony in the Owner's suite. The Conero strongly features the use of glass, in large windows that improve the quality of life on board and guarantee constant direct contact with the sea.

www.crn-yacht.com

New Model: Fairline 48 Squadron

Presented by Fairline in surprise at Southampton boat show, was the new 48 Squadron.  This last to come Fairline model is the second of the 48 hull platform, which launched in mid Summer with the Targa Open.  A 48 Targa GT with an enclosed hard top is next, with Fairline bringing three different models using same hull and similar layout below, all powered by Volvo IPS pods, and built with resin infusion technology.  The main difference here between the Targa Open and this 48 Squadron is the enclosed saloon in the main deck, and the flybridge up top.  As is usual form Fairline the Squadron offers a spacious flybridge, which you reach from the integrated stair case to port side.  Up top as is a standard since years now Fairline layout; large L-shaped settee, wet-bar to starboard and a dual seat helm station to port.  The saloon of the 48 Squadron offers a C-shaped settee, L-shape passenger settee to port side, and a helm to starboard.  The galley is located below, and opposite is a C-shaped dinette with the choice to have this as a twin bunk berth cabin.    

Technical Data:

LOA - 15.38 m (50.5ft)

LOA - 14.73 m ex bathing platform

Hull Length - 14.35 m

Beam - 4.33 m

Draft - 1.18 m

Displacement - 13.7 t dry

Fuel Capacity - 1350 l

Water Capacity - 440 l

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

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp

Propulsion - Volvo IPS600 forward looking dual propeller pod drives

Construction - longitude and transverse moulded stringers, Polyurethane foam core for deck

Project - Fairline Design Team 

www.fairline.com

Engines: Volvo V8 CE 430hp

The V8-430 is part of Volvo Penta’s new generation of state-of-the-art, V8 gasoline marine engines. And just like its predecessor, the V8-430 is a high-performance engine, loaded with new technology, that meets the EPA Tier 3 requirements by a broad margin. V8-430 combines high performance with low environmental impact. It’s a brilliant performer thanks to its excellent power-to-weight ratio. Its low noise and vibration levels enhance your on-board comfort. The effective catalyst keeps emissions and CO2 levels low and eliminates smell. V8-430 weighs around one hundred kilos less than any other engine in the corresponding classes on the market, resulting in very competitive weight effect ratios. At the same time, the new engines are heavy-duty, fuel and oil-efficient.  The engine has also been equipped with VVT - Variable Valve Timing technology, which optimizes torque at low RPMs while maximizing the effect outlet at high RPMs. This results in faster acceleration, increased top speed and smoother, better response in the mid-range.

www.volvopenta.com

Project: Hodgdon 41 Onyx

DeBasto Designs and Hodgdon release an innovative design concept, the 41 Onyx. A beautiful, stylish design, 41 Onyx is as easy to operate as to look at. From touch screen controls to remote monitoring, Onyx sets a new standard of technology applications in a yacht of this size. A host of innovative features such as a self-deploying integrated fender system, built-in dock line handling and user-friendly features such as hybrid electric propulsion and joystick steering bring owner operator convenience to a new level. If the sophistication of the features alone is not enough to impress, consider the level of luxury aboard. A generous open plan space below features a large berth, wrap around settee, galley and head with a surprisingly creative dual opening skylights above.  On deck, with a flair for the dramatic, the open air concept semi-enclosed deck lounge opens even more to the outside world with a multiple panel sliding skylight roof overhead. Integrated monolithic furniture runs nearly the full length of the available space offering ample stylish seating and lounging.  Both interior and exterior furnishings are client-tailored luxury weather and stain resistant fabrics from the Interiors Division of Loro Piana.  The concept of Onyx is not simply about style, it is also about execution, with standards befitting the world of superyachts where the demand for quality is second to none. To achieve such a standard, Luiz DeBasto turned to Hodgdon for the answer who have a nearly two hundred year pedigree that includes some of the world's finest superyachts and superyacht tenders. Hodgdon 41 Onyx is expected to be built in very limited quantities for only the most discriminating of owners.

www.hodgdonyachts.com

New Model: Princess 52

Its been billed as one of Princess's most astonishing latest new models in this size for years to come, this is the 52 which replaces a good seller from the British Plymouth based boat builder the 50 Mk.3.  The 52 is not just a cosmetic replacement though, it is a totally new yacht taller and half a foot wider, and the layout part is full of improvements being substantial and complete. The most important change is definitely the astern galley on the main deck, a first for Princess, who located cooking duties in a more social area which joins saloon and cockpit.  But another important difference that is if you compare the 52 with the last version of the 50, is also that the third cabin is also not of a bunk layout. Exterior wise the changes of the 52 continues from nice all around views wrapping the saloon, to large view windows below serving the large midships owners stateroom. The Princess 52 is so good compared to the old 50 Mk.3 that even though its just a little bit bigger I am sure many owners will consider a move up as soon they board on one.      

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.66 m (54.8ft) inc pulpit

LOA - 16.3 m exl pulpit

Beam - 4.75 m

Draft - 1.25 m

Displacement - 24,600 kg half load

Fuel Capacity - 2400 l

Water Capacity - 609 l

Accommodation - 6 guest berths in 3 cabins, 1 crew cabin berth

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 625hp, D11 670hp, D11 725hp, Cat C12 A 715hp

Speed - 32 knots max with Volvo 725hp

Project - Bernard Olesinski

Certification - NMMA, ABYC

www.princessyachts.com

Project: Monte Carlo MC6

This should be one of the most awaited unveiling to come in the coming year as Monte Carlo shows the design of its forthcoming yacht, the MC6, due to be launched at the end of 2014. A 58 feet flybridge motor yacht the MC6 confirms the development of the revolutionary range in the luxury segment, as desired by Beneteau Group and top designers Nuvalari Lenard validating all the strong points of the Monte Carlo Yachts brand, in particular the solutions and attention to detail, which set Italian made yachts apart from the others.  This model is the last link to join both MCY and the smaller MC models, offering quality living space and combining quality materials, it is indeed a final step before going into the 65 model, entry level of the yacht range. In perfect harmony with the philosophy of the range, the flybridge is home to a large terrace, spacious sunbathing platforms, a roomy saloon with up to ten people capacity, comfortable seating to enjoy time on the water and total protection thanks to the carbon T-top.  The main, entirely open deck allows fluent communication between the kitchen, located at the heart of the living space, the vast saloon and the central cockpit. With its strong, timeless design, the MC6 offers original solutions in its class: three suites cabins all with en-suite bathroom, choice of beds configuration in both VIP and guest cabin, and, most of all, an owner suite at the rear with open plan en-suite bathroom.

www.montecarloyachts.it

Class 1 - Terracina Italy Grand Prix

RACE 1

Arif Al Zaffain and Mohammed Al Marri eased to their fourth win of the year with an untroubled flag-to-finish victory in race 1 of the Mediterranean Grand Prix in Terracina.

Behind the winners the fight for the podium was between LFF10 and Zabo-Isiklar but despite taking the chequered flag in second place, Luca Formilli Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella paid the price for destroying a turn buoy on the opening lap.

The Italians incurred a 25-second post-race penalty, which combined with the 20-second time compensation given to Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski, dropped them to third.

The Victory duo grabbed hold of the race from the start to lead by seven seconds at the end of the start lap increasing the gap to 26-seconds by mid race, going on to close out the win and complete the 11-lap, 53.06Nm race in 32:04.84s. 

The only slight controversy surrounding the defending Champions emphatic win was a 25-second post-race time penalty given to them for passing a mark of the course on the wrong side. But despite the penalty they still managed to win by almost 15-seconds.

Zabo-Isiklar and LFF10 continued their post-qualifying duel and produced a sensational opening two laps trading places, racing side-by-side just inches apart.

Isik and Zaborowski led at the end of lap one but by less than two-tenths of a second, then immediately conceded the position at the first turn with Formilli Fendi and Carpitella passing them on the inside.

The Italians were then able to pull away opening up a 23-second lead as they took the chequered flag in second spot. But it was the opening lap that would prove costly, the additional 25-second penalty costing them the runners-up slot. 

For Christian Zaborowski a third runners-up slot was a good result for the team after the work they have done on the boat and as much as they could have hoped for. 

Behind the top three LFF8’s Miles Jennings and Alfredo Amato ran a very solid and rather solitary race to finish well ahead of fifth placed FA.RO.ACCIAI, with Tarik Oktem taking his seat behind the wheel to join Giampaolo Montavoci in Poliform and picking up points in sixth.

MEDITERRANEAN GRAND PRIX – race 1

1. 3 Victory - A Al Zaffain (UAE) / M Al Marri (UAE) – 32:04.84

2. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - U Isik (TUR) / C Zaborowski (NOR) + 14.77s

3. 10 LFFendi10 - L Formilli Fendi (ITA) / G Carpitella (ITA) + 37.11s

4. 8 LFFendi8 - M Jennings (GBR) / A Amato (ITA) + 1:43.00s

5. 23 FA.RO. ACCIAI - G M Gabbiani (ITA) / L Nicolini (ITA) + 2:24.00s

6. 74 Poliform - T Oktem (TUR) / G Montavoci (ITA) + 2 laps

5 Team Abu Dhabi - F Al Mansoori (UAE) / R Al Tayer (UAE) - dns

RACE 2

Miles Jennings and Alfredo Amato produced one of the most popular and surprising results of the weekend with a simply sensational win in race 2 of the Mediterranean Grand Prix, which started to turn dramatically on its head as early as lap 8 of 15.

The Anglo-Italian duo were running strongly in fourth place ahead of Poliform and were then elevated to third when Luca Formilli Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella’s race ended on lap 8 with a broken torque sensor. Two laps later race leader Victory slowed to a crawl after breaking a propeller and were passed by Zabo-Isiklar with LFF8 now up into second place.

But on the final lap and with the chequered flag almost in sight Zabo-Isiklar ran out of fuel and Jennings and Amato swept passed them and into the lead to take the chequered flag and their first win in just their third Grand Prix together. 

Behind the winners Poliform’s Tarik Oktem and Giampaolo Montavoci also took advantage of Zabo-Isiklar’s misfortune, passing them in the closing stages to take the runners-up slot and their first podium together, with the unfortunate Zabo-Isiklar classified in third. 

There was drama right from the beginning when the start was aborted by an offcial on the pace boat which then suffered a technical failure. The boats waited out on the course for a replacement which sparked some calls from teams raising concerns about possible fuel issues.

From the start Victory immediately got the jump on pole-sitters LFF10 and started to open up a lead moving 20 seconds clear by lap 5. Behind them LFF10 and Zabo-Isiklar gave chase with Formilli Fendi and Carpitella maintaining a comfortable advantage when the torque sensor let go and their weekend came to a halt.

On lap 10 Victory hit trouble and slowed and Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski hit the front and looked to be on course for their first win together and Zaborowski’s first since 2006. But five laps later their cocerns about fuel became a reality and they stopped and were eventually towed back to the pits. 

With the top three boats in the Championship all running into trouble it was Jennings and Amato in LFF8 who benefitted the most and from a solid fourth at the mid-point ran out the eventual winners.

Fourth place went to Gian Maria Gabiani and Luca Nicolini in FA.RO. ACCIAI who maintain their consistent run of finishing in the points, with Victory classified in fifth. Despite Team Abu Dhabi’s efforts to get the boat ready to race, their participation lasted just one lap.

Today’s outcome keeps Victory at the top of the standings on 91 points with Zabo-Isiklar moving up into second place on 65, three points ahead of LFF10.

The teams now head to the Middle East and the UAE for the final Grand Prix of the year in Abu Dhabi on 5-6 December.

MEDITERRANEAN GRAND PRIX - race 2

1. 8 LFF8 - M Jennings (GBR) / A Amato (ITA) + 47:39.89s

2. 74 Poliform - T Oktem (TUR) / G Montavoci (ITA) + 51.52s

3. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - U Isik (TUR) / C Zaborowski (NOR) + 1 lap

4. 23 FA.RO. ACCIAI - G M Gabbiani (ITA) / L Nicolini (ITA) + 1 lap

5. 3 Victory - A Al Zaffain (UAE) / M Al Marri (UAE) - ret

10 LFF10 - L Formilli Fendi (ITA) / G Carpitella (ITA) - ret

5 Team Abu Dhabi - F Al Mansoori (UAE) / R Al Tayer (UAE) - ret

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 3

1. 3 Victory Team - 91pts 

2. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - 65pts 

3. 10 FF10 - 62pts 

4. 7 HUB Team Australia - 60pts 

5. LFF8 - 52pts 

6. 23 FA,RO ACCIAI - 46pts 

7. 74 Poliform 34pts 

8. Team Abu Dhabi - 18pts

www.class-1.com

New Model: Azimut Atlantis 50

Its the first new model which Atlantis presents under Azimut branding umbrella, this is the new 50 a further evolution of the 48, starter in fall 2009 of the new look era by Neo Design Team of Biaggi and Salvetti completed in 2012.  So far Azimut Atlantis 50 will not replace the 48, but will be an additional model with an extra one foot at the back of overall length, glass hard top instead of soft, patio door in lieu of fully open although this choice is still available, and third cabin with bunk berths in replacement of the lower deck saloon.  The Atlantis 48 have been a successful model for the Italian maker and the 50 hopes to strengthen its grip further, even with the new competition coming from known British builders which should make choosing an open hard-top modern looking of around the fifteen meter mark very interesting to any buyer. The Azimut Atlantis 50 unlike the competition though is powered by the tried and tested long standing line shaft.  Interestingly Azimut Group Research and Design department has been among the biggest tester of the pod drives in Sweden and Italy, but its usage has been very sparse, something I never whole hardheartedly understood.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.19 m (53.1ft)

Hull Length - 14.34 m

Beam - 4.3 m

Draft - 1.27 m full load

Displacement - 20.5 t full load

Fuel Capacity - 1700 l

Water Capacity - 420 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, or 4 berths in 2 cabins, extra two berths in convertible saloon

Engines - 2 x Cummins QSC 8.3 600hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 33 knots max, 29 knots cruise

Hull Shape - Vee keel with medium 15 degrees dead-rise aft

Project - Neo Design Marco Biaggi and Filippo Salvetti, Azimut Yachts 

Certification - UNI ISO 8666

www.azimutyachts.com

Project: Wim Van Der Valk 36.00 Continental Trawler Flybridge

An important project for this Dutch builder Wim Van der Valk founded in 1968, of a new flagship who received an order for it past Summer.  The Win Van der Valk 36.00 m Continental Trawler will be built in a steel hull and aluminium upper structure, and features a full displacement round bilge hull with traditional line shaft propulsion.  The design was trusted to famous dutch designer Guido de Groot, who for an explorer yacht presented a sleek look thanks to a two deck with fly-bridge layout. No layout has been mentioned of this new build but the standard form of the 36.00 Continental is a four double cabins layout with an owners stateroom amidships.  The main deck is all reserved for entertainment and relaxing with a separate pilot room located to fore.  A crew lobby with three cabins and a dinette is located aft.  Power for the Wim Van der Valk 36.00 Continental Trawler will come from twin Volvo D16, which so far are only featured in their commercial book.  Delivery is scheduled for 2015.

www.vandervalkshipyard.com

New Model: Astondoa 63 Top Deck

If you are looking for a yacht purely dedicated to entertainment in outdoor spaces may be this one is for you. Presented in Cannes the Astondoa 63 Top Deck is clearly trying to bring a fresh unedited approach to the sport yacht sector.  Here at PowerYacht when seeing the renderings of this new Astondoa which is a project from Luiz de Basto back past Spring, we did say the Spanish builder are up to something different.  The main characteristic of the 63 Top Deck is definitely the amount of space it has dedicated for outdoor space, that is a full floor from bow to stern.  This Top Deck, is a single level area offering diverse spots; from a large fore sun-pad, a bar lounge style behind the helm under the hard top amidships, and last a small jacuzzi pool to stern.  The exterior floor space on the 63 Top Deck also increases by about 20% size thanks to opening balconies, and expendable bathing platform aft.  Below the Astondoa 63 Top Deck also offers an interesting layout with two en-suite served guest cabins amidships, and a galley with a relaxed entertainment area to fore.  There is also a crew cabin with a shower head located in the side of the beach garage, which also features a nice day head to starboard.  This last is surely an unedited feature for a yacht measuring nineteen meters in size.  But in the end the Astondoa 63 Top Deck is an unedited yacht.         

Technical Data:

LOA - 19.12 m (62.7ft)

Hull Length - 18.9 m

Beam - 5.09 m

Draft - 1 m ex props

Displacement - 23,317 kg loaded, 21,000 kg unloaded

Fuel Capacity - 2460 l

Water Capacity - 662 l

Accommodation - 5 berths in 2 cabins, 2 berth convertible sofa, 1 crew berth 

Max Persons - 10

Engines - 2 x D11 700hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking IPS900 dual propeller pod drives

Speed - 36 knots top, 25 knots cruise

Range - 330 nautical miles at cruise speed

Hull Type - planning V-shape with spray rails, 13 degrees dead rise aft

Project - Luiz De Basto

Certification - RINA

www.astondoa.es

PowerYachtBlog Best of 2013 Nominated

Project: Marlow Explorer 58E

Marlow show the project for the 58E Explorer successor to one of its most popular models, the well loved and accepted 57. Building on that heritage and taking full advantage of our proprietary Full Stack Infusion methods developed at Marlow Yachts the company says the new 58E should bring value added improvements in performance, internal and external volume while keeping the distinctive and well recognized style the US company China build yachts are known for.  The new 58 features a full beam master stateroom similar to the 57 with added volume for the port side guest stateroom, one of three sumptuous cabins. Careful engineering has resulted in a 40% gain in fuel capacity compared to 57-1. Enhanced engine room volume, lazarette and crew quarters make cruising a delight, allowing greater range and more options as to the destination. With a waterline length of almost 55’ her ride is superior to other vessels of similar overall length with significantly longer range at ocean crossing speeds.  58-1 also features the semi enclosed bridge introduced in 2010 on the 70 series and provides significantly improved weather protection for the incredibly spacious and luxuriously appointed flying bridge, without increasing bridge clearance required.  The aft deck on the new 58 has grown significantly and features a most civilized stairwell to the boat deck above, providing easy transit with cocktails and Hors d oeuvres or in offshore conditions. The new radius transom is stylish and increases lazarette storage volume by approximately 30% again versus the 57. 

www.marlowyachts.com

Class 1 - Terracina Italy Grand Prix Preview

Luca Formilli Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella will line up for the Mediterranean Grand Prix intent on marking the first Class 1 event to be held in Terracina, Italy 18-20 October with their first win since they teamed-up in Class 1 in Abu Dhabi in 2010.

At the mid-point in the Championship with four races run and four to go the top three are separated by 14-points; defending World Champions Victory’s Arif Al Zaffain and Mohammed Al Marri top the points table on 62, just two clear of Aussie duo Darren Nicholson and Rossco Willaton in HUB Team Australia with Formilli Fendi and Carpitella’s LFF10 in third on 48 points.

Formilli Fendi and Carpitella are genuine title challengers and now a constant threat to the top step of the podium, finishing on the podium seven times in nine outings at the last five Grands Prix and will be hoping to add their names to a somewhat sparse list of Italian winners on home waters.

In the last 22-years 15 Italian cities have hosted Class 1 with national success limited; Matteo Nicolini took the chequered flag last year in Cernobbio, with Nicolini, Guido Cappellini and Giampaolo Montavoci credited wins the year before following the DQ of Victory. Prior to that, you have to turn back the clock to Tarranto in 1997 (E Polli/L Leoni), Gallipoli in 1995 (L Ferrari/V Polli) and Pescarra in 1992 (A Gioffredi/A Bonomi) to find Italian success.

The target for Al Zaffain and Al Marri will be simply to extend their slender Championship lead, but the multiple World Champions have been under more pressure in 2013 than for some time.

They had to come from behind in race 1 in Sanya to overcome a brilliant drive by the Zabo-Isiklar duo and in race 1 in Istanbul looked decidedly rattled by the Australians, hooking twice and eventually retiring – but they regrouped to take the win in race 2.

Their record however is impressive; since being paired in December 2011 in Dubai Al Zaffain and Al Marri have won 12 times from 15 starts, missing the podium just once - the DNF in Istanbul.

Equally impressive is the teams’ success in Italy winning 15 times, with Al Zaffain completing a hat-trick of wins in Stresa with Nadir Bin Hendi and winning in Cernobbio with Al Marri last year – Al Marri also winning in 2001 with Saeed Al Tayer.

The Dubai duo also sit on top in the Edox Pole Position Championship taking maximum points this season and have qualified in P1 seven times from their eight outings together.

The biggest threat to Dubai dominance this year has been the Australians, Darren Nicholson and Rossco Willaton, who bring a refreshing approach and an all-out style of racing to Class 1, and who are running a latest generation Victory boat leased to them by the Dubai outfit.

Nicholson made his mark in the championship at the end of 2011 when he partnered New Zealander Peter McGrath to grab podiums in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. He then teamed-up with Willaton, the pair qualifying strongly in Sanya in third, finishing fourth in race 1 and second in race 2.

In Istanbul they became the first all-Aussie pairing to win a Class 1 GP and the first Australians to stand on the top step since Bill Barry-Cotter in Qatar in 2002. Their term at the top of the points table was short-lived finishing third to Victory and LFF10 in race 2, but just two points shy of the leaders are well placed in the title race – assuming they make it to Terracina.

The Zabo-Isiklar duo of Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski sit in fourth place and must wonder where they might be if not for two no points tallies – the first the result of a slightly overzealous first corner and immediate exit in race 2 in Sanya after finishing second in race 1. The second, disappointingly, followed in Istanbul in race 2 following a herculean effort to fix and re-rig the boat and a brilliant drive from the back of the field after missing qualifying to finish second in race 1.

They have good qualifying and race pace, but unlike the three outfits they are chasing who run V12 power-plants the Zabo Team run the Mercury turbo-charged V8, but the break since the last race has allowed the team to make further adjustments and modifications and they will be expecting to be running at the front and challenging for the win.

Another all-Italian crew looking to do well on home waters is Gian Maria Gabbiani and Luca Nicolini in FA.RO. ACCIAI, and currently lying in a very respectable fifth place. And whilst they will be the first to admit that they do not have anywhere like the pace or resource of their more illustrious rivals, they have shown great reliability and resolve to be where they are.

They first teamed-up in Gabon last year finishing in fifth then rather unceremoniously crashed out of the Italian Grand Prix in race 1. But since regrouping they have put together a solid string of performances finishing in the points in their last eight outings and recording five top-five finishes.

The flamboyant Brit, Miles Jennings, and Italian Alfredo Amato will make their third appearance together running the number two Fendi boat, LFF8. After a somewhat frustrating race on their debut in Sanya, China where they failed to post points, they produced a stirring performance in Istanbul to make it a double podium weekend for the team after finishing third in race 1 and then fourth in race 2, their teammates grabbing second.

For last year’s Championship runners-up Team Abu Dhabi, 2013 is not proving to be as successful and they find themselves sitting in seventh. Their number one and favoured pairing of Rashed Al Tayer and Majed Al Mansoori were no shows in Sanya so led to a seat shuffle with newcomers Faleh Al Mansoori and Salim Al Adidi forced to split up, Al Mansoori doing both races with Tomaso Polli, Adidi racing with Giampaolo Montavoci in Poliform.

Al Mansoori and Polli fared the better finishing fifth and fourth, Adidi and Montavoci failing to finish race 1 but managing a sixth in race 2.

Rashed Al Tayer was back for the Turkish Grand Prix and taking the throttles for the first time, with [Faleh] Al Mansoori again getting the call-up to drive. They qualified well in fourth and then took the chequered flag in race 1 also in fourth, only to be disqualified. But in race 2 their weekend ended on lap 2, hooking and crashing out of the race.

Team Abu Dhabi has confirmed the same line-up in Terracina but the team is facing an uphill climb to have the boat fixed and rigged in time.

DAC Racing has confirmed that Giampaolo Montavoci will be on the throttles and will be joined for the second time this season by Tarik Oktem.

It has been a varied season for the most experienced racer in Class 1 – who starts his 104th Grand Prix and lines-up for his 116th race in Terracina. Last time out in Istanbul he guided Class 1 rookie Oktem to a very respectable fourth place in race 1 but hit trouble and retired in race 2.

Teams get their first chance to test the waters and the 4.97Nm circuit in Fridaymorning’s free practice at 11.00hrs (local) with official qualifying in the Edox Pole Position at 14.30hrs. A second practice session on Saturday at 10.30hrs is followed by race 1 of the Mediterranean Grand Prix at 15.30hrs. The final practice session and second qualifying session takes place on Sunday at 11.00hrs with race 2 at 15.30hrs.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 2

1. 3 Victory Team - 62pts 

2. 7 HUB Team Australia - 60pts 

3. 10 LFF10 - 48pts 

4. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - 34pts 

5. 23 FA.RO ACCIAI - 30pts 

6. 8 LFF8 21pts 

7. Team Abu Dhabi - 18pts 

8. 74 Poliform 14pts.

EDOX POLE POSITION CHAMPIONSHIP - after round 2

1. 3 Victory Team - 40pts 

2. 7 HUB Team Australia - 27pts 

3. 10 LFF10 - 21pts 

4. 91 Zabo-Isiklar - 15pts 

5. 8 LFF8 - 12pts 

6. 23 FA.RO.ACCIAI - 11pts 

7. 5 Team Abu Dhabi 9pts 

8. 74. Poliform 5pts

www.class-1.com

Project: Hardy 40DS

Hardy seems to make 2013 an important turn around for its company and apart launching recently its new flagship presents this interesting new 40DS project.  This new Hardy model sits in the high end of the current Hardy range which starts at 20 and continues to the just launched 62.  The 40DS is an interesting two cabin medium range explorer cruiser, with a nice small modern ship looking exterior and featuring a semi displacement hull design.  Its cabin layout will feature a two cabins interior layout with an owners room to fore, and two L-shaped guest berth amidships.  The galley as well as a large living saloon which converts to a dinette are all located on the main deck.  Standard power is a single 440hp Yanmar which should give estimating top speeds of 19 knots with a cruise of 14.  It will also be possible to power the 40DS with twin engine power although this will require a change in the hull profile.

www.hardy-marine.co.uk

Martin Broom MDE 1934 - 2013

Martin Broom, MBE, a champion of the Norfolk Broads and a pioneer and leader in the boat-building industry, has sadly passed away at 79 years old. Martin contributed thirty years service to the Broads Authority; sixty years creating the wonderful marque, Broom Boats, and years of dedication to the national marine industry. A boatbuilding champion in the heart of Broadland for half a century and a race-winning sailor, Martin took up the challenge to use a revolutionary material, fibreglass, which transformed the long-established family company at Brundall. It was three years ago that the third-generation boatbuilder sold Broom's Boats, founded by his grandfather in 1898, to new investors. A member of the Broads Authority for thirty years, he had a passion for boats and sailing which was infectious. In the 1991 new year's honours, he was made MBE for his service to the marine industry and Broadland. Martin took over from his father at the age of thirty, having spent just a year working in the business, he faced a much more immediate challenge. His father had a heart attack, his uncle died, and his cousin decided to go into the church, leaving him in charge of a boatyard employing 25 men. But fibreglass was to revolutionise boatbuilding. Broom's started in 1965, building hulls made by Aquafibre's entrepreneurs John Linford and Ian Macintosh, who had set up the business with a consortium of boatyards including his family company. Broom's gained overall control of Aquafibre, then based in Rackheath, near Norwich, in 1971. It developed a range of sea-going and Broads fibreglass craft, which were sold to national and international buyers. Born at Brundall in June 1934, he went to Norwich School and then became a boat-building apprentice with Herbert Woods at Potter Heigham. He did National Service as a boat repairer in the air-sea rescue service at Plymouth. The family's boating business had been established by his grandfather, Charles John Broom, at Brundall. In those days, it maintained privately-owned wooden yachts and built craft to order. In the 1920s, it started hiring sailing boats and by 1939 had built up a small fleet of motor cruisers. He joined his father, Basil, who had taken on the firm, which during the war built lifeboats and destroyer tenders for the Admiralty. At the same time, he promoted the Broads as a holiday destination for private owners and the hire sector. He became vice-chairman of Blakes Holidays, which enjoyed conspicuous success from the late 1960s onwards. Introducing post-war Britain to the novelty of boats also featured strongly with dealings with the Beaverbrook empire led by Max Aitken and the Daily Express's sponsorship of the London Boat Show. He was a leader with the British Marine Federation, which included a two-year term as chairman for the International Boat Shows. He was also a board member of the Yarmouth Port and Haven Commissioners, long-serving member of the Broads Society. With other organisations, he had worked from the 1950s to bring about the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads Act, which set up the Broads Authority in 1989. He was the first chairman of the authority's navigation committee since its inception in 1988. When he retired almost two years ago, he was presented with a half model of his 14ft Norfolk One-Design Dinghy, number 59, Tideway. He was vice-chairman of the Broads Authority from 2002 to 2005. Mr Broom, who lived at Strumpshaw, has served on the authority's planning committee since it was formed in 1983. A committee member of Norfolk and Suffolk Boating Association and several Broads sailing clubs, he was commodore of the River Cruiser Class. Sailing in a Norfolk dinghy, he was still competing until last year and won more than 150 trophies with his favourite craft during his career. He was also a multiple winner over the years in September's Yare Navigation race from Coldham to Breydon Water. His record as one of the county's best helmsmen set him apart whether racing at the Norfolk Broads Yacht Club or elsewhere. He relaxed by sailing his 38ft river cruiser, Rausena, built by Herbert Woods in 1932, and his other boats included the Yare and Bure half decker one design, Apollo. He once said that he had only taken up sailing in 1948, then aged fourteen because Tideway had been built for his older brother, Graham. When he went into the Merchant Navy, he didn't want to waste her. By 1972, when he had enjoyed triple success in the Diamond Jubilee Gold Challenge Cup, he was dubbed 'Martin King of Norfolk Dinghies'. He dominated the traditional clinker class, also White Boats and then Enterprises, sailing Maidamistake. And in 21 years, he won the Frostbites 18 times. One of the proudest moments of his long career was taking the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh down river on the Broom-built 45ft motor cruiser Albert of Blofield. Later this year, he was to have been presented by the Princess Royal, president of the Royal Yachting Association, with a life-time achievement award. Martin Broom leaves a widow, Jennifer, and two daughters, Mandy and Emma.

Project: Fairline 75 Targa Gran Turismo

Billed as one of the most exciting models developed by Fairline to date, the 75 Targa Gran Turismo is due to be completed in late 2014 ahead of her world debut during the 2015 show season. Combining exceptional levels of exterior and interior space plus high performance and style, the new 75 Targa GT will showcase Fairline at its very best. As with all Fairline models, she will be developed and constructed using some of the most advanced technology available, and will be completed at the manufacturing facility in Oundle.  Boasting a beautifully appointed spacious saloon, she will offer luxurious seating, a TV with surround sound system along with Fairline’s renowned levels of refinement and quality. In the cockpit owners will enjoy an extended outdoor entertaining area including a wet bar, spacious lounging areas, a vast triple sun pad and a tender garage suitable for a Williams diesel jet tender. A submersible bathing platform is provided which can also be used to launch the tender. A first for Fairline, the foredeck offers a further entertaining area with seating, sunbathing and optional hot tub.  The 75 Targa Gran Turismo is available with a three or four cabin arrangement all with en suite. Each option enjoys a fabulous full-width master stateroom with feature windows to port and starboard, a king-size bed, dressing room, lounging area and bureau. This is complemented by a beautiful full beam master en suite with large walk-in shower, twin washbasins and toilet in separate compartment.  If the three cabin option is selected, owners will enjoy a grand galley below deck with integrated wine cooler, as well as washer and dryer. Those opting for the four cabin arrangement will also enjoy a beautifully appointed galley and will have the addition of a utility area in the aft cabin for white goods. Both options come complete with American style fridge freezer with icemaker, dishwasher, microwave oven, hob and plentiful storage space. The new Fairline Targa range flagship will be available with a comprehensive choice of interior and exterior upholstery fabrics, hand-crafted joinery and panels. She will be offered with twin Caterpillar C32 engines, with power options of 1622, 1825 and 1925hp, and is expected to reach speeds in excess of 32 knots with the base engines or towards 40 knots with the highest power offering.

www.fairline.com

New Model: Sea Ray 510 Fly

Full of European looks it is surely among the best looking Sea Ray flybridge ever built, this is the new 510 Fly. Take away the badge and many would think this new Sea Ray flybridge motor yacht was build in Italy, and it is not the coach roof design which only says this but also the hull and the distinct windows design. The Fly label, a common name used on flybridge boats in Italy says it all I guess. Based on the hull of the best selling 510 Sundancer, top seller craft from fifteen to 24 meters for 2013 in the States the 510 Fly offers a three double cabins interior, with a full beam owners stateroom located amidships. Thanks to an intelligent use of space the third cabin has also two adjacent twin berths, and a VIP guest room located to fore. Living is all on the main deck in a split area, with a galley located to port of the helm-station on the raised part. Winning all the competition the 510 Fly has also among the most spacious flybridge area in its size, and also offers the largest galley wet-bar for a fifteen meters ever seen up top.

Technical Data:

LOA - 15.49 m (50.9ft) incl extended bathing platform

Beam - 4.47 m

Draft - 1.24 m with shafts, 1.27 m with ZF pods

Displacement - 19,700 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 1514 l

Water Capacity - 416 l

Accommodation - 4 or 6 berths in 2 or 3 cabins, + 2 convertible berths

Engines - 2 x Cummins QSC 550hp, QSC 600hp

Propulsion - V-drive line shafts, or ZF Zeus dual propeller aft looking pods

Hull Shape - Vee shape with 19 degrees deadrise

Certification - ABYC, NMMA, CE optional

www.searay.com

American Custom Yachts New Web Site

American Custom Yachts presents its new World wide web virtual showroom.  Founded in 1992 by Dominick Lacombe who came from the experience of running custom sportfish boat builder Monterey.  American Custom Yachts first build was a 58 feet custom sportfish yacht delivered in 1994, which was followed by a 63 and a 65.  Other 68, 70, 72, a small 42 models where built since then.  American Custom Yachts latest build is the 90 flagship completed in 2012 and powered by twin 4600hp MTU and reaching 48 knots top speed.  American Custom Yachts new website takes you around with the following buttons; Yacht Construction, Service and Repair, Custom Refits, Boat Storage, ACY Fleet, Ship Store, Affiliates, Newsletter, Home, Testimonials, Yacht Doctors, Marketing Partners, Press, Video, Brochures, and Request a Quote.  American Custom Yachts also features its social media pages; Facebook and Twitter with a link featured on the right page.

www.americancustomyachts.com

Project: AB Yachts 166

AB Yachts shows rendering for the project of a new flagship the 166. Still waiting a signature on the dotted line, it will be a not so long wait of about two years for a complete new custom build, this depending on requested specification for the new AB Yachts flagship.  This model joins other Viareggio builders in presenting mega large super sport yachts with around fifty meters in length, with the AB Yachts being the third in the series. The 166 continues the family feeling of AB Yachts, but a big difference of this new model from its smaller sisters, is that here we have a three decks.  Impressive in the AB Yachts 166 will be the owners stateroom located on the main deck, and apart having two balconies which give abundance of natural light features also a separate access to the pool on the foredeck.  With the AB Yacht 166, Arnaboldi continues his sponsorship of Jet Propulsion, a trademark and specialization of the Viareggio builder, before it was part of the Fipa Group since founded in the nineties, and also a feature of the new flagship.  Sporting also an aggressive underwater Vee-shape hull with deep fore foot the AB 166 will be powered by triple MTU 4600hp engines giving a top speed of 48 knots and a cruise of 40.  Apart these impressive high end performance numbers which is a trademark of AB Yachts a 2500 nautical miles range is possible with  a 12 knots cruise.    

www.abyachts.com

New Model: Cruisers 45 Cantius

The third model in the Cantius series range by Cruisers, the 45.  In this latest fully enclosed hard top model Cruisers follow the looks of the 41 along with the theme of all the Cantius, with a living all on the main deck, and a lower area dedicated to the cabins.  One of a favourite feature of the 45 will surely be the astern galley in the main deck saloon, serving easily both cockpit and interior saloon in a sociable environment.  Another nice touch is the aft bench settee which can become a sun-pad, an aft looking mezzanine, or a lounger type seat.  Two cabins both with en-suite shower head are featured below.  The master cabin is located to fore, and a three berth guest room is amidships. The amidships guest cabin features also some nice leg room, which is not something to discount nowadays, and a cool entertainment centre with a movable settee, and relax chaise lounge to port.  Power is standard twin Volvo 370hp, or optional 435hp units with IPS pod drives.  The standard power is a bit a slow giving a top speed of 27 knots, but 34 knots is estimated with the larger units.
Technical Data:

LOA - 14.4 m (47.3ft) including Hi-Lo bathing platform

Hull Length - 13.7 m

Beam - 4.3 m

Draft - 1.0 m

Displacement - 13,381 kg

Fuel Capacity - 1370 l

Water Capacity - 370 l

Accommodation - 5 berths in 2 cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 370hp, D6 435hp

Propulsion - Volvo IPS500 or IPS600 forward looking dual propeller pod drives

Speed - 27 knots max with  Volvo 370hp IPS500, 35 with 436hp IPS600

Hull - planning Vee with 18.5 degrees deadrise

www.cruisersyachts.com

Project: Monte Carlo MC4

Really nice lines in this Monte Carlo MC4 project, fresh from what most of the competition is offering outside.  Fair to say this has been the line followed by Monte Carlo Yachts, guided by Carla Demaria who has presented interesting looking and original craft in the high end motor yacht line from Beneteau Group since its inception more or less for over five years now. But lets also say it to the designers, Nuvolari and Lenard from Venice who have again over done themselves, something they do very well since the nineties.  I have a couple of projects in my mind from Nuvolari Lenard which are classics not only for me but for the motor yachting community in general.  This new MC4 which those of you who have been in Cannes or Genoa might have seen for real is the smaller sister to the MC5 presented earlier on in 2013.  It brings the same features of a nice flybridge motor cruiser, looking sports, classic see the bow, and at the same time handsome.  Practical features are packed all over from a full opening three part patio door joining the living of the main deck with the aft cockpit.  Interesting is also the flybridge, nearly invisible in the above rendering if it was not for the forward wind-shield, reached from a steel stair case to starboard it offers a spacious environment from a C-shaped dinette, forward looking settee plus a small sun lounge to port, and helm with a wet-bar behind it opposite.  Down below the MC4 offers two large cabins; full beam owners amidships, and VIP to fore.  Fair to say this layout is not a friendly one for a family, something which seems to be common in most Beneteau Group models of this size.  A scissor movement in the forward cabin bringing the double to two singles would definitely improve this.  Power comes from twin Volvo 300 or 370hp with IPS pod propulsion.

www.montecarloyachts.it

New Model: Cranchi 53 Eco Trawler LD

It's definitely one of Cranchi's most announced and awaited novelties, and also an unedited new direction for the World famous North Italian family run boat builder.  The 53 Eco Trawler LD is Cranchi's answer to a segment of the market which have seen a high renewed interest from boaters since fuel costs have started to increase more or less about a decade ago.  What's interesting about Cranchi new Explorer yacht is that in it come a lot of the ideas featured in the latest planning yachts; astern galley, full beam owner midships stateroom are here, fore deck settee, as well as IPS pod propulsion to help improve economy, giving more buck to the mile are all features of this entry in the long distance segment.  An interesting part of the 53 Eco Trawler LD layout is also the four option choice to the third cabin below.  You can have have this third cabin space in various utilities; twin berths, dinette with no bulk head, storage and two bunk berths, and last as a separate office.      

Technical Data:

LOA - 17 m (55.9ft)

Hull Length - 15 m

Beam - 4.95 m

Displacement - 18,200 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 2700 l

Water Capacity - 810 l

Max Persons - fourteen

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

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pods

www.cranchi.it 

PowerYachtBlog Best of 2013 Nominated

Project: Galeon 560 Skydeck

Based on the 550 Fly, Galeon and designer Tony Castro present the project of the 560 Skydeck, a sports flybridge motor yacht aimed to hybrid two styles of users in one.  Galeon already did a similar experiment with its 420 series presenting the 430 Skydeck, and after good input from the customers offers the same concept on its much admired 550 series.  The 560 Skydeck is in fact an identical yacht in the interior layout of the 550 bar its flybridge and its window shapes here looking more aggressive.   The flybridge of the 560 Skydeck is indeed of a more sports nature and here Galeon offers a layout from a sports boat with a central helm with two side guest settees and large sun-pad to aft.  The flybridge is also moved more backwards for the reason that the 560 Skydeck has a part, the one above the interior helm which is an opening tinted glass hard-top. The aft of the 560 is also different offering a large sunpad with a moveable back rest which transform this settee in various needed uses, from looking forward for dining or aft to chill by the water. For the remaining the 560 Skydeck offers what made the 550 a very impressive yacht; three large cabins below, large double two single beds crew quarters aft, and one of the best astern galley in the category.       

www.galeon.pl

New Model: Uniesse 49 Open

 

It is always a challenge for a boat builder to re-invent or replace a successful model in its line up which has been long standing for over a decade.  This is the case for this new Uniesse 49 Open, which in reality does not replace but updates the appreciated, respected and the since its launch in 1996 has been called the timeless 48.  The 49 is in nearly all details the same sport cruiser, inside and outside layout, exterior line giving a tribute to the Carolina sportfishers as designed by Fred Hudson nearly two decades ago. And really why should they change much, the 48 Open was as close to perfection you can get in superb US European style mix, being its sea keeping quality as are its construction standards, as its well appointed interior which offers good accommodation for a sport cruiser measuring fifteen meters. But look skin deep and the Uniesse 49 Open show its new elements; smaller engine power with more speed on tap thanks to ZF Zeus propulsion, an added comfort to its guests aft with an up and down bathing platform, and legal change thanks to less length on ISO rules.  Uniesse has always been a conservative builder, and with the 49 Open, it shows that it still has that important spirit at heart.  Surely the 49 Open updates the 48 with the important propulsion change the ZF Zeus pod drives, giving a more spirit lively handling as well as better economy at the pump.  This reduces engine horse power needs from 715 to 600hp while still reaching a top speed of 38 knots, important to note plus two nautical miles per hour versus the standard shaft choice power.  For those still looking for a traditional line shaft set up Uniesse still offers the 49 Open with this set up, from a standard Cummins 715hp or optional MAN 800hp units. The length change marks also a significant change to the Uniesse 49 Open as with this new dimensions the 49 Open comes under the fourteen meter tax rules as amended in Italy past June.  Yes the Uniesse 49 Open does not replace the 48 it just makes it better.  

Technical Data:

LOA - 15.86 m (51.9ft)

Length - 13.6 m

Beam - 4.62 m

Draft - 1.12 m

Displacement - 17,100 kg full load

Fuel Capacity - 1850 l

Water Capacity - 580 l

Accommodaiton - 6 berths in 3 cabins

Max Persons - 14

Engines - 2 x Cummuns Zeus 600hp, Cummins 715hp, MAN 800hp

Propulsion - ZF Zeus aft looking pods with Cummins 600hp, line shaft propulsion

Speed - 38 knots max with Cummins ZF Zeus pods 600hp, 36 knots with Cummins 715hp

Construction - hand laid fiberglass; vinilester and isoftalic resin, unidirectional and woven fiberglass.  Airex sandwich core for topsides.

Project - Fred Hudson

Certification - CE B

www.uniesse.com

Project: Jarrett Bay 84 Sportfisherman Hull #60

It's been a great year for Jarrett Bay and after delivering its largest ever build the 77 feet hull number 56, the company sets out the construction of an even bigger boat.  This time Jarrett Bay extends its size by seven feet, and starts the construction of an 84 Sportfisherman set to be delivered in three years time, that is 2016.  This new super sportfish yacht comes from the new 77 owners, who will have to wait three years for the new custom build to be completed.  Jarrett Bay 84 Sportfisherman will feature a four double guest cabin plan, plus a two berth crew room amidships this also having a direct access to the full height engine room. Other interesting details are the day head on the main deck, a laundry room, storage room, and a midships located owners stateroom.   

www.jarrettbay.com

New Model: Cantiere Delle Marche 96 Darwin Class

Its been one of the most talked new models coming from Italy this Summer, the new 96 Darwin Class titled ‘Stella di Mare’: a 30 meters Explorer yacht with rugged US ocean trawler and working tug-boat inspired looks designed by Sergio Cutolo and built by Cantieri delle Marche.  The yacht maintains the Darwin series features, but it differentiates from the previous 86 models of the same line particularly for the increased on-board volumes resulting in the possibility to dedicate more spaces to the crew, to the technical areas and to the guests.  For example in this hull one of the 96 the VIP suite has now almost the same volumes as the owner’s stateroom, and the main deck is considerably extended, as well as the guest cabin and the sun-deck this being enlarged up to fifty squared meters. Another example is the garage itself also ten squared meters bigger than the one on the 86 Darwin, and contains also 4 bikes, 2 of them electric, with their recharge battery station.  The Darwin 96 has a steel hull and a light alloy superstructure that can guarantee the maximum strength and durability, also considering the intense usage a super yacht like this is designed to undertake.

Technical Data:

LOA - 28.95 m (95.9ft)

Waterline Length - 26 m

Beam - 7.43 m

Draft - 2.30 m

Displacement - 235 t full load

Fuel Capacity - 42000 l

Water Capacity - 4000 l

Accommodation - 8/10 guest berths in 4 cabins, 3/4 crew in 2 cabins

Engines - 2 x Cat C18 596hp

Propulsion - line shaft with skeg protection, 5 balded propellers

Speed - 13 knots max, 12 knots cruise, 10 knots economic

Range - 5900 nm at 10 knots economic cruise

Construction - 8 mm and 12 mm in reinforced areas steel for hull, 5083 allumunium for super structure

Project - Sergio Cutolo from Hydrotec, Pierluigi Floris interior

Certification - RINA Grade A

www.cantieredellemarche.it

Project: Hinckley T43 Talaria

In the eve of the Newport International Boat Show, Hinckley president and CEO Jim McManus announced the Talaria 43, its third new powerboat model in as many years. And the company chose a unique setting in which to do so, from the cockpit of the full-scale mock-up of the new model.  The timeless good looks of the Talaria line are readily apparent in the new boat, as is Hinckley’s penchant for evolution through design and technological innovation. Several notable new features distinguish the T43 design from her sister Hinckley models and other boats in the marketplace.  An impressive new element on the Talaria 43 came about through listening to current Hinckley owners. The boat will feature a technological first: a glass pilothouse rear enclosure, with door, that completely disappears with a touch of a button.  A a patent is pending. This enclosure will satisfy those owners who like the openness of an express boat, but like the sense of security afforded by a solid enclosure for inclement weather. Other boat companies have offered retracting windows but Hinckley is the first to make the door retract fully as well. The T43 is to be powered with standard twin Cummins 715hp and Hamilton jet propulsion, with the option as introduced this year in some other Hinckley boats of Volvo 435hp engines with forward looking IPS pod drives.  With either drive system, the T43 is expected to cruise at 30 knots with a top speed of 35 knots.  For the accommodation layout the cockpit features wonderfully sociable seating and a hospitality bar with refrigerator and sink. The boat’s full galley is carried to port on a mezzanine level for easy access. Two Stidd seats are fitted at the helm station. A large windshield and glass nearly all around at eye-level make for excellent visibility. Below decks is a queen master stateroom forward, a double guest cabin to starboard and a head with stall shower opposite. Like all her Hinckley sisterships, the T43 comes very well equipped with an Awlgrip-painted hull in a full range of colors, electronics, upper and lower A/C units, and the little niceties like cabin sole covers, fitted sheets and elegant Kahlenberg trumpets. She is built in the stiff, yet light, DualGuard laminate with Corecell coring, E-glass and carbon fibre. And like the rest of the fleet, the boat comes with the support of the company’s network of service yards, three days of on-board training, a lifetime hull and deck warranty, and the company’s signature bright-work and prized Hinckley profile.  Already five T43 Talaria are in order from the drawing board of the model.

www.hinckleyyachts.com

New Model: Tiara 50 Coupe

Its an interesting story at the moment if you are a customer looking for a sport cruiser or yacht around the fifty feet length and with pods drives, as the market has in the last couple of months been filled with offers from some quality renowned builders, three of which have never offered such a package in this size.  Tiara a high quality labelled production builder from the USA presents this great looking new 50 Coupe, featuring an unmistakable conservative yet contemporary styling outside.  I am loving that flared bow for example, but also the design of the coach roof and the hard top has a certain simplicity which tells you to keep looking for ever.  In this new 50 Coupe Tiara shows meticulous planning for the boater; huge bathing platform with wet-bar, large aft cockpit, fully enclosed interior main deck with full all around panoramic views, and astern galley.  Down below the intelligence of the 50 Coupe layout not only for featuring a full beam owners room a standard in cruisers of this size nowadays and more so in IPS powered yachts, but most important for the choice of having a wash-room or this to be replaced by a third bunk cabin.  Last and not least is the details which surprise in this Tiara 50 Coupe like the saloon sofa, or aft deck settee which have a quality style home grade look and feel. Standard power for the Tiara is Volvo 600hp or optional 725hp, with both engines propelled with IPS forward looking pod drives.      

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.6 m (54.6ft)

Beam - 4.85 m

Draft - 1.37 m

Displacement - 21,418 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 2649 l

Water Capacity - 757 l

Accommodation - 4 berths in cabins, or 6 berths in 3 cabins, optional 1 berth crew cabin aft

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 600hp, D11B2 725hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS800 or 950 pod drives

Speed - 35 knots max   

Hull - modified Vee with 14.8 degrees dead-rise aft

Construction - Hand laminated solid fibreglass bottom with balsa cored sides and closed cell for topsides. Gelcoat outer layer and premium resins used.

www.tiarayachts.com

PowerYachtBlog Best of 2013 Nominated

Project: Sea Ray 350 SLX

Sea Ray shows details for its new 350 SLX project redeveloping the bow rider into an entertainment boat for up to an over crowded eighteen people seated outside, with the option of a small cuddy double berth below.  For thr 350 SLX Sea Ray shows attention for the outside and for having settee from bow to sterns all of which can be sun protected during your hot summer days with extendible and retractable biminis. The 350 SLX is in the end a Summer day boat, with a little thinking for an overnight stay if you want that. The nice part of the layout is the L-shaped settee with opposite galley amidships, which looks to be a nice area to cook, eat and chill.  Another interesting detail of the the SLX flagship comes also for having a high low bathing platform making tender storage a breeze, as well for being relaxed in the water more easy.  Power is from twin stern drive Mercruiser 350hp gas, or Cummins diesels of the same output.  

www.searay.com

New Model: Sunseeker 68 Predator

Sunseeker has been always a builder which re-invents itself and the Predator series has always been its most daring innovative side.  This 68 Predator follows suit on the latest designs by the British, Poole based boat builder, with large view windows being the main design topic outside, and a living on the main deck the theme inside.  Accommodation offers three spacious guest rooms, with an owners stateroom amidships having very nice features as a beauty desk, lounging sofa, and a walk in wardrobe.  The galley is located in between the cabins below, to port side of the descending stair which bring you from the main deck. Two crew berths featuring L-shaped bunk berths are located astern.  Power is twin engines up to a total of 3244hp which give a top speeds up to 33 knots maximum.

Technical Data:

LOA - 21.7 m (71.2ft)

Waterline Length - 16.42 m

Beam - 5.09 m

Draft - 1.58 m

Displacement - 37,300 kg half load

Fuel Capacity - 3500 l

Water Capacity - 800 l

Accommodation - 6 berths in 3 cabins, 1 crew with 2 berths

Engines - 2 x Diesel power max total of 3244hp

Propulsion - line shafts in propeller tunnels

Speed - 33 knots max, 24 knots cruise with the large engine choice

Range - 300 nautical miles at cruise

Construction - hand laid fiberglass, Vinilester skin coat with powerder pound mat, balsa-cored hull sides, PVC foam-core for superstructure

Certification - CE

www.sunseeker.com 

The Best

When people are building boats, which costs many thousands and or millions of $$$ it is very normal that everyone claims his product is to be among the best.  But at the moment there is one such builder that is claiming this and its very interesting the perspective they give.

In the fifty years birthday video which Viking from New Jersey USA is celebrating the coming 2014 year, the company claims to be the best semi-production boat builder around.  This is some big talk but if you go marina hoping in the US you will see that there is more facts to this then meet the eye, and many captains, crew, and yacht service repair man want stay much away to back this claim.  
It is true that Viking has shown a proficiency and product development and improvement since the nineties that many in the industry can learn a few things from.  Viking has gone from good, better, and best, raising the bar for itself and those who follow.  But in many ways you view the Viking performance one can see it is complete in many regards from the research and design which goes in the production of a new model, to its service departments located in the US where most of its market is. 

From a certain point of view it can be luck also that Viking builds for the most part sport fishing yachts, where engineering details are as much important as the furnishing and fittings.  But it can also be luck for the competition! Viking is developing a new yacht series with a 75 scheduled for launch for 2014.  Will be interesting to see how this will review, not only when new but after a couple of years.  

Viking has raised the bar, and its interesting also in the corporate fifty years video, how not only the Healy family still nurture there firm, but how the management staff has been long standing with the company not for a couple of years, but most of them for decades, and some of them since the founding.  

This shows that being the best after all is just about people!