Improve-it = Magnum 51 Bestia

This new blue, Magnum 51 has been delivered this summer 2014 to a client in Miami. Equipped with twin MTU 1600hp, this boat represents the results of Magnum Marine new studies in a more environmental friendly boat, especially on fuel economy and speed. Amazingly, this over 60 knots sport yacht will use only 380 lph, thanks to the lighter weight, common rail engines, the stiffer and lighter hull construction and the surface drives system. Interiors of this new model include a large salon and galley, master stateroom, head and crew cabin. Also called “Bestia”  Magnum 51 is characterized by her tremendous speed, acceleration and brute power. She features a narrow beam, deep-vee, very muscular hull, generally equipped with twin Caterpillar or MTU diesels of between 1600 and 1925 HP each coupled to Arneson surface drives. The top speed can reach up to 64 knots. Very impressive is her unbelievable seaworthiness in all weather conditions.  She slices through the waves and can safely and comfortably make long crossings in rough seas, whilst large yachts remain in port. In spite of her small size, the Magnum 51 has approx seven feet headroom and boasts a comfortable double cabin with Queen sized berth and plenty of closet space, a large head with stall shower, a salon, galley and crew cabin. The cockpit, with bolster helm and companion seats also features an L-shaped side and transom seat and sundeck.

www.magnummarine.com

Project: Riva 50 MT

Riva has sold its first 50 Mt model, with steel cutting currently ongoing.  This is the second of the new generation Riva to be built in Ancona at CRN and to be constructed in a material outside fiberglass.  Riva has been in touch with small super yacht sizes of eighty plus feet in the seventies, and then made a return in these sizes in the mid nineties.  Seeing the legendary builder going above fifty with possibility of going up to one hundred meters opens new possibilities for the Riva style never before seen.  The Riva 50 Mt will be a fully custom build and should weigh around 450 tons unloaded.  The technical details does not list the design house, but by the looks of things it should be Mauro Micheli Officina Italian team.  Engines should be twin Cats 1450hp engines with max speeds of 15 knots.

www.riva-yacht.com

New Model: Azimut Atlantis 43

After re-inventing all the line of Atlantis in 2009, Neo Design head to phase two and continue a project of renovation and updating in this important entry level line of the Azimut-Benetti Group. After smooth touching a 50 model from the 48, now Atlantis present a new 43. While looking different from the 44, this new 43 is in hull shape based on the model it replaces. But from waterline up the 43 is a totally new model. Interestingly both Neo Design and Azimut Atlantis take a more traditional outlook in the 43, indeed in many respects the 44 was most daring. For example to give a short summary of this, the midships cabin of the 43 is a three single berths layout versus the full beam midships of the 44. The aft deck cockpit is also a more traditional cozy deep layout, versus the more daring and open of the 44.  These subtle changes are an interesting move from Atlantis, who look at a more international market for the 43, versus the more Mediterranean flare featured in the other smaller and bigger sisters.    

Technical Data:

LOA - 13.86 m (45.5ft)

Hull Length - 13.1 m

Beam - 4.25 m

Draft - 0.9 m

Displacement - 13 t full load

Fuel Capacity - 900 l

Water Capacity - 350 l

Accommodation - 4 + 2 berths

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 400hp

Propulsion - Volvo dual propeller stern drive

Speed - 33 knots max

Hull Shape - planning Vee with 15 degrees deadrise aft

Project - Neo Design

Certification - Uni ISO 8666

www.azimutyachts.com 

Project: Storm X-59 Fly

Following consultations with interested and involved parties, Storm decided to further develop the first draft of the X-59. Meanwhile, it has also become clear over recent months that there is serious interest in an X-53 with more space on the aft deck and an additional stateroom for guests. Storm is now delighted to inform you that all this has resulted in the first order for a Storm X-59 Flybridge during the HISWA Amsterdam in-water Boat Show. The yacht will comprise the same innovative Fast Displacement Hull Form underwater section, high build quality and efficient handling properties that characterize all Storm boats. The X-59 Fly is to start construction of hull number one in the first quarter of 2015.

www.stormyachts.com

New Model: Galeon 305 HTS

The Galeon 300 series grows into a more complete range, and now the Strazyn builder presents the new 305 HTS version model. The HTS initials stand for hard top sport, and this latest Galeon third generation showcases an aggressive exterior coupled with the accommodation of a cruiser once entering inside. Below the 305 HTS is full of surprises and offers a two plus two layout plan; double Vee berth forward, and a separate cabins at midships. In between the cabins is a galley to port side, and a shower head to starboard. But one of the most interesting features of the 305 HTS is also its main deck layout, this offering an aft sun-pad, L-shaped layout, double helmsman chair, relaxing settee to port side, and a well sized wet-bar.

Technical Data:

LOA - 10.4 m (34.1ft) with optional bathing platform

LOA - 9.6 m

Beam - 2.99 m

Draft - 0.72 m ex props

Displacement - 5500 kg light, 7835 kg loaded

Fuel Capacity - 415 l or 600 l

Water Capacity - 200 l

Accommodation - 4 berths

Max Persons - 9 or 7 in Cat B

Engines - 1 x Volvo D4 260hp, 2 x Volvo D3 190hp, D4 225hp, D4 260hp

Propulsion - Volvo Duoprop stern drive

Project - Roberto Curto Certification - CE B, CE C

www.galeon.pl

Class One - Vee One - Abu Dhabi Race Two

Arif Al Zaffain and Nadir Bin Hendi delivered another racing master class to win race 2 of the Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi and claim Victory Team’s 14th World title.

Race 2 honours in V1 went to Bernico-New Star’s Belgium duo, Nico Bertels and Frank Hemelaer, with fourth place for race 1 winners Aaron Ciantar and Dominique Martini in Chaudron good enough to seal the V1 World Championship.

Starting from pole, Victory’s newly crowned Champions’ only challenge came at the start in a drag race to the first turn with Luca Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella in LFF10, before they grabbed the advantage and disappeared off into the distance.

Today’s win, the duo’s fifth of the season, was another demonstration of their absolute superiority, going on to take the chequered flag and complete the 10 laps by a winning margin of 54.42seconds.

In a repeat of race 1 the pace of the leaders was simply too much for Team Abu Dhabi and LFF10, the only other boats to go the distance, LFF8 stopping on lap 1 followed a lap later by Relekta-Zabo-Isiklar, with New Star-Poliform failing to make the start.

After a processional seven laps the race and the fight for the second and third steps of the podium between LFF10 and Team Abu Dhabi’s Gary Ballough and John Tomlinson ignited.

LFF10 led until lap 8 but could not shake of their pursuers and were slowly and surely hauled in by the American’s with the time split down three seconds.

At the end lap 9 and going into the final turn Team Abu Dhabi came alongside LFF10, both outfits going into the turn side-by-side and both hooking, with Team Abu Dhabi emerging in front and running out the final lap to claim second spot.

Despite the disappointment of today’s retirement Ugur Isik and Cristian Zaborowski’s season-haul of five podiums was enough to give them the runners-up slot in the World Championship, with Luca Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella in third.

Not for the first time this season the V1 teams produced some great racing, with the lead changing hands and the race for the podium places hotly contested.

After yesterday’s somewhat fraught day for Bernico-New Star’s four man squad, DQ’d from both qualifying and race 1, Nico Bertels and Frank Hemelaer came back in style to take a well-deserved win.

Champions elect Chaudron got the jump on pole-sitters Aquasport and led from the start with Bernico-New Star giving chase and keeping the gap too under eight seconds. On Lap 5 Bernico-New Star hit the front and pulled away from a struggling Chaudron to take their second win of the year.

Behind the leaders Aquasport, Karelpiu and Tommy One enjoyed and produced the best fight of the race; first Aquasport held the upper hand, then Karelpiu grabbed the advantage until lap 5 the two trading places again before Daniel Cramphorn and Nico Huybens hit trouble and dropped back, eventually finishing in fifth.

With Chaudron slowing to a crawl and limping home in fourth, the remaining podium positions went to Karelpiu’s Antonio Schiano and Federico Montanari and Tommy One’s Stefano Bonanno and Maurizio Schepici.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Hercules Sagemann’s Andreas Podolsky and Udo Gross who struggled with technical problems, completing just five laps, Silverline's Ian Blacker and Drew Langdon sidelined before the start with broken engine.

www.class-1.com

Project: Monte Carlo Yachts MCY105

In the last four years Monte Carlo Yachts was always present at Cannes with a new model, but for 2014, the company showcased a flagship project which takes its size up by nineteen feet and is set to launch in 2015.  Set to upgrade a more super yachts awareness of this Beneteau Group brand, which is currently built in Italy the MCY 105 is designed as the other Monte Carlo's by Nuvolari Lenard, and follows a family feeling to its smaller 86, 76, 70, and 65 sisters.  A few important industry novelties characterize the 105 in its size; separate semi raised pilot house, owners room in between the main and lower deck as seen on an another smaller 23 meters Beneteau Group model, and the Portuguese bridge, this last being a characteristic of all Monte Carlo Yachts.  As the other MCY the 105 will also be full of high tech building components, from the use of aluminium beam, to eight tons of carbon fiber and Kevlar usage in the construction.

www.montecarloyachts.it

Class One - Vee One - Abu Dhabi Race One

Arif Al Zaffain and Nadir Bin Hendi moved to within one point of a 14th World title for Dubai's Victory Team following an emphatic win in race 1 of the Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi.

Their superiority was mirrored in V1 by Malta's Team Chaudron whose win moved them 12 points clear in the overall standings and one step closer to the World title.

Starting from pole after clinching the Pole Position Championship in the morning the Victory pairing stormed into the lead and go 12 seconds clear of New Star-Poliform at the end of lap 1, with Miles Jennings and Alfredo Amato in LFF8-Silverline in third. But their race ended two laps later when the escape hatch in the hull blew out.

By mid-race Victory had opened up a 35 second margin and went on unchallenged to close out the eight lap race and take their fourth chequered flag of the year to win by 79 seconds. 

Behind them New Star-Poliform led the processional chase ahead of Relekta-Zabo-Isiklar and Team Abu Dhabi but neither outfit had any answer to the pace of the leaders and the podium places looked to settled. But on lap 6 New Star-Poliform slowed, a broken water pump belt ending Mikhail Kitashev and Guido Cappellini’s challenge.

With New Star-Poliform out, Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski went on to take their fourth podium of the year and keep their title hopes flickering, with American’s Gary Ballough and John Tomlinson finishing in third for Team Abu Dhabi.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Luca Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella in LFF10 whose hopes of any challenge for a podium finish ended almost immediately when an engine stopped, forcing them to shut down the other engine to reboot the system.

From lying in 10th place overall at the end of lap 1 the Italians recovered to force their way up through the pack to take fourth and move into third overall in the Championship standings.

In an equally processional afternoon for the V1’s, Aaron Ciantar and Dominique Martini staked their claim on the Championship, cruising home untroubled and unchallenged in Chaudron with a lap to spare. "It was quite rough on the outside for the start but our boat is good in these conditions," said Aaron Ciantar. "For most ofthe race we were able to keep up a good speed and take the turns at full throttle. Now we will try to win the title."

After a late disqualification from third place in qualifying and forced to start from the back, Nico Bertels and Frank Hemelaer recovered well to finish second in Bernico-New Star, with Stefano Bonanno and Maurizio Schepici bringing Tommy One home in third.

Fourth place for Aquasport’s Daniel Camphorn and Nico Huybens keeps them in the hunt for the title, with Hercules Sagemanns’ Andreas Podolsky and Udo Gross finishing in fifth ahead of Ian Blacker and Drew Langdon who limped home in an ailing Silverline to take points in sixth.

Giuseppe and Antonio Schiano's hopes of carrying their challenge for the title into the final day ended when Karelpiu failed to make the start of race 1 after damaging an engine after a spinout in qualifying.

Only a calamity can stop Victory from lifting the C1 crown, with the fight for the title in V1 between Chaudron, Aquasport and Tommy One.

www.class-1.com

New Model: Invictus 280 GT

Invictus was born from a challenge to offer a new reference to the world yachting market. Invictus features three different lines, the GT, FX and TT models, all conceived and built according to the qualities that have made Italian shipyards appreciated in the world: aesthetics, dependability, flexibility and a long lifespan.  Thanks to the collaboration with the famous Christian Grande DesignWorks office, Invictus has incorporated a remarkable technology component and a careful attention to details into the design of this new 280GT model. The new 280 GT strikes for its reverse bow, appearing both sharp and massive at the same time, merging into the sides of the hull without frippery, and crafted using uniform transitions between full and empty shapes, while the cabin windows and the air intakes for the engines are shaped like simple lines that emphasize the monolithic characters that Christian Grande desired. The choice of this particular bow structure also allows for a longer waterline length for length, which gives better stability and interior space, with a substantial increase in below-deck livability. Surfaces are designed as if they were carved shapes, and impart a sensation of sturdiness. When aboard the 280GT we find an ample stern bathing platform, with the engine housing covered with a sunbathing cushion that enlarges by rotating the rear backrest. The central zone hosts a comfortable L-shaped settee that faces the steering area, the latter with a solid double ergonomic seat and a midships position equipped with a galley module, complete with a refrigerator and lockers.The bridge, which also includes access to the interior, is protected by a wide sweep-around windscreen and equipped with the latest digital instrumentation, and includes a video monitor. The left side bulwarks is optimized for on-board movements and equipped with a spacious stowage space that can also be customized by the owner in several versions, including housing for a set of matching accessories. The bow zone, suited for sunbathing, is quite large and designed for total ease of use and covers the forward portion of the ample cabin, which is a small suite. The Invictus 280GT comes equipped with a Volvo 320hp stern-drive petrol engine, capable of 38 knots top speeds. The 280GT can carry up to eight passengers and comes with a large cabin and separate bath and external galley module, with all the extras. At present four color schemes are available: the delicate “Vanilla Sea”, the more aggressive “Attack Grey”, the elegant “Dark Wood”, and the classic “Personal White”. The 280GT, like all the vessels of this series, can be customized both with accessories and equipment.

Technical Data:

LOA - 8.9 m (29.1ft)

Waterline Length - 6.8 m

Beam - 2.84 m

Draft - 0.9 m

Fuel Capacity - 450 l

Water Capacity - 70 l

Accommodation - 2 berths

Max Persons - 8

Engines - Volvo 5.7 320hp

Propulsion- Volvo stern drive with dual propeller

Speed - 38 knots max, 21 knots cruise

Hull Shape - medium Vee with 16 degrees deadrise aft

Construction - fiberglass with Vinilester resins

Project - Christian Grande, Aschenez Andrea Carni

Certification - CE B

www.invictusyacht.com

Class One - Vee One - Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Preview

Fourteen boats will line up for the final two races of the season at this week’s Grand Prix of the U.A.E in Abu Dhabi, 3-5 December

The climax to the highly successful and competitive first season of the ‘new look’ ClassOne World Powerboat Championship combining C1 catamarans and V1 monohulls will decide the outcome of World titles in both categories.

In C1 Victory’s Arif Al Zaffain and Nadir Bin Hendi hold a 14 point advantage over a trio of outfits who on paper have a shot at lifting the title, whilst in V1 the outcome of the title race is too close to call, Team Chaudron topping the table on 46 points, a tenuous one point cushion over Aquasport with a mere 15 points separating the top five.

Al Zaffain and Bin Hendi will be looking to celebrate their 2014 racing reunion as they go in search of a fourth World title together and a 14thfor Victory Team. The Dubai duo will start as firm favourites and after dominating qualifying, a win in race 1 to add to their three victories in Ibiza and Terracina would all but seal the Championship.

Fifteen points separates Victory’s three potential title protagonists with Ugur Isik and Christian Zaborowski in Relekta-Zabo-Isiklar leading the challenge from Mikhail Kitashev and Guido Cappellini in New Star-Poliform both outfits grabbing three podium finishes and Luca Fendi and Giovanni Carpitella in LFF10, race winners’ last time out in race 2 in Terraccina.

Hoping for home success and a repeat of the team’s win in 2010 are Team Abu Dhabi’s American duo, Gary Ballough and 1997 Wold Champion John Tomlinson, who were impressive on their first outing together in Terracina, posting third best times in qualifying and taking third spot in race 1.

The competition and rivalry in V1 is as intense as it gets, four different outfits taking the chequered flag and climbing the top step of the podium and five grabbing podium finishes.

Of the top three each has a race win under their belts but a DNF apiece for Chaudron’s Aaron Chiantar and Dominique Martini and Tommy One’s Maurizio Schepici and Stefano Bonanno last time out could well prove costly, their misfortune allowing Daniel Camphorn and Nico Huybens to capitalise and stake their title claim, the Aquasport pairing splitting their rivals and sitting menacingly in second place.

Karelpiu’s Giuseppe and Antonio Schiano match Tommy One on 39 points in third spot and line-up in Abu Dhabi looking for their first win of the year, as do Ian Blacker and Drew Langdon in Silverline – both outfits finishing in podium spots twice.

Nico Bertels and Frank Hemelaer, race winner’s in Terracina, have it all to do with an 18 points margin to overturn, their strategy to run different crews for race 1 and 2 resulting in their points having to be allocated accordingly, whilst Siegfried Greve and Udo Gross will be hoping for a trouble free run in Hercules Sagemann after a frustrating double DNF last time out.

Teams will get their first impressions in tomorrow’s two practice sessions of what looks set to be a challenging course around Lulu Island, with a potentially rough offshore leg and a flat fast leg on the inside in front of the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

Official qualifying takes place on Thursday at 10.30hrs [local] followed by race 1 at 15.30hrs, a second qualifying and race 2 closing out the year on Friday.

www.class-1.com

New Model: Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht

Lagoon has come up with the 630 Motor Yacht, and this Power Catamaran was one of the most talked models during its World wide premier in Cannes. It had to be as the 630 Motor Yacht offers a package of long range, good performance, and incredible fuel economy in total comfort and serenity. Just think of the engines of the 630 which are twin 260 or optional 300hp units. Power usually found in ten meters size sport cruisers.  The 630 is a further development of the Lagoon 620, and is also the work result of talented VPLP architects and Nauta Design and Lagoon’s own engineers. The Lagoon 630 Motor Yacht will be also offered in five different internal layout options. The choice is vast from a standard four cabins, to five or six double cabins. One has also the option of a central or lateral galley in the main deck living area of the 630 Motor Yacht.

Technical Data:

LOA - 19.5 m (63.9ft)

Waterline Length - 18.6 m

Beam - 10 m

Fuel Capacity - 3000 l

Water Capacity - 960 l

Accommodation - standard 8 berths in 4 cabins, optional 10 berths in 5 cabins, 12 berths in 6 cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D4 260hp, D4 300hp

Propulsion - line shafr

Project - VPLP, Nauta Design

www.catamarans-lagoon.com

Reputation

Every year during the fall boat show season, a crop of new boat builders seem to enter the challenging yacht market.  Each of these new builders have a different profile, with two usually standing out; you can have the boat owner who turns builder with financing, or an experienced craftsman who after years on a yard floor takes matters into his hands.  Surprisingly even in recent difficult times new boat brands have not stopped coming up, with the Dutch taking first place from the Italians.    

Sometimes the biggest challenge that some of these new brands will face is image, and a reputation of being a solid company. Unlike a decade ago we live in an age where marketing and communication are very important.  In the eighties and nineties companies where growing up with the owners, for both size and production numbers.  At that time much was about reputation, with a balanced growth.  Many of today's famous brands grew up like this, it was a hand to hand owner builder build up, which started in a village, took a regional direction, national, and then international recognition.   

Today on the other hand you rarely see this growth. You can have the super yacht builder starting up with eighty plus footers, or a builder of smaller sub fifteen meters cruisers. That is why sometimes a brand name, even if closed for a few years, sometimes even decades always hold its values, and will have fans turning around and supporting it, even if the product has not yet been released yet.  

Monthly News - November 2014

-pic of the month- Ferretti Group Opens Shanghai Showroom

Azimut Internatioanl Awards

Even though it was just launched this past May 2014, it has already received two prestigious awards in the USA and China. Named Best Yacht of the Year 2014 by renowned magazine Robb Report China, the Azimut Grande 95RPH earned the "Best of the Best” classification that identifies the most extraordinary products in the luxury sector. In doing so, it has joined the ranks of world famous brands like Ferrari, Piaget, Ducati, and many others. The Italian boatyard's new 29-metre vessel impressed the jury with its elegance and style, its welcoming interiors, and its incredibly roomy flybridge (more than 60 m2); so much so that that they awarded it "Best in Class" among the other boats in its category. Similarly, the boat's superior performance made quite an impression on the jury at the AIM Marine Group Editor's Choice Awards. Held in conjunction with the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2014, the Editors’ Choice Awards is sponsored by AIM (Active Interest Media) Marine Group representing the following publications: Yachts International, Power & Motoryacht, Sail, Soundings, Soundings Trade Only, Passagemaker, and BoatQuest.com. At the official ceremony on 29th October 2014 in Fort Lauderdale, the Azimut Grande 95RPH was awarded Best Motoryacht in the 90-100 foot category. The jury recognized the Azimut model for its extraordinary design, innovation, technology, and creativity. These awards are significant for the Italian boatyard because they indicate the USA and China markets' enthusiasm for these new models, two strategically important markets for the Azimut|Benetti Group.

Bavaria Opens Office in the USA

In October Bavaria opened its new office in the USA at Fort Lauderdale in Florida. This is the second direct representation from the German Shipyard and follows the Bavaria Shanghai office opened recently. Under the name of Bavaria Yachts America, this office based in Florida will supervise the US market, Canada and the entire South American region. The Bavaria Yachts America operation is represented by Vincent Guiot, Sales Director at Bavaria. The first test of this new Bavaria office in the United States was the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Out of the Bavaria product range for motor boats, the Bavaria Virtess 420 Fly and the Virtess 420 Coupe were displayed. Customers from all over the United States visiting the show appreciated the brand Bavaria very much and the first orders were closed following the show. With the opening of this head office in Fort Lauderdale, Bavaria is making a clear commitment to the “Americas” market. The expansion of the dealer network and participation to all major shows such as Miami Boat Show, West Palm Beach, Rio de Janeiro, and Cartagena will strengthen Bavaria presence for 2015.

Beneteau 50th Boat Show

The third Boat Show opened its doors at the heart of the huge construction work that prefigured the Défense business district. Beneteau entered the French sailing scene, confidently showing its first polyester boats. At the same time, Suzuki wrote the first page of its motorboat history. In fifty years, we have come a long way since then. The Boat Show became the Nautic at Porte de Versailles and Beneteau and Suzuki have become two undisputed world leaders, working together and enjoying an increasing number of partnerships. Like an ode to the currents that carried them, Beneteau and Suzuki will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their presence at the Paris Boat Show. To create a connection between the two brands, four legendary Suzuki VanVan motorbikes have been customized in the anniversary colours of the two brands. So, as a prelude to the Show, three Beneteau Flyers will symbolically sail along 50 km of the River Seine, from Ile des Impressionnistes to Port Javel in Paris 15th arrondissement, escorted by this motorbike squad riding alongside. After these ‘Furious 50s’, the Flyers and VanVans will head to the Beneteau stands of the Nautic and these unique versions of the legendary Suzuki motorbike, redesigned by Style & Design and prepared by MFC Paris will be offered to the buyers of a boat whose purchase agreement is signed during the Show, following a draw. Designed by Style & Design, it is worth recalling that the new generation of Beneteau Flyers benefits from the latest technology developed by Suzuki Marine for its motorization. This close collaboration comes with European agreements between the engine manufacturer and the Vendée boatyard for the development and renewal of all of its outboard ranges.

CRN and Riva Finest Art on Water

“The Finest Art on Water” will be shown as part of the Rich Pickings. Displaying Wealth exhibition at the Museum Für Kunst Und Gewerbe, Hamburg. The exclusive collection by Christian Jankowski has been created in partnership with CRN and Riva, which are two Italian luxury yachting brands of the Ferretti Group. In collaboration with the magazine POP. Kultur und Kritik, Rich Pickings. Displaying Wealth brings together 20 contemporary approaches from a wide range of countries and artistic methods. Artist Christian Jankowski aims to engage directly with the idea of sales and exchange and the value of luxury goods. “The Finest Art on Water” is not only a yacht but also a piece of art that fully immerses the spectator. Visitors to the exhibition will explore the presentation of wealth in contemporary society, and through “The Finest Art on Water”, be confronted with the idea of luxury objects; that artwork can generate cultural capital and elevate the buyers above the level of conventional taste and material consumption. Jankowski collaborated with yacht builders CRN, the Italian shipyard specialised in the construction of fully customised steel and aluminium maga yacht over 40 metres, featuring a 68m vessel, whose exteriors and interiors lines were designed by Officina Italiana Design, and have been produced by the shipyard in the contemporary artwork. The Aquariva Cento, a limited edition boat, also designed by Officina Italiana Design, that can be available as a tender for CRN superyachts, will also be sculpturally displayed as part of the installation, simultaneously challenging an art audience and yacht lovers alike. 

Ferretti Group Opens First Flagship Showroom in Shanghai

Ferretti Group, world leader in the design, construction and sale of luxury motor yachts, proudly announces the opening of its first Flagship Showroom in Shanghai, located in the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Pudong. The new Showroom sits on the bank of Huangpu River, in a beautiful location inside Mandarin Oriental Hotel. This place represents welcome, elegance, excellence, Italian style and the ‘Made in Italy’ quality, which are the key values of Ferretti Group. The design is by Officina Italiana Design - the studiothat designed the whole Riva fleet - which already gave its unmistakable mark to the previous Showroom, opened last June in Qingdao. The new opening demonstrates, one more time, Ferretti Group’s determination to expand the Mainland China business and the efforts to enhance the brand awareness and reputation in the most important market of Asia Pacific. Ten years ago, Ferretti Group pioneered the global luxury yacht industry by opening a representative office in Shanghai. Today, after years of efforts and investments, Ferretti Group is leading the industry in a fast growing market with unrivalled capabilities. Today’s celebration is for those past years and contextually marks the beginning of a new exciting era.

Gulf Craft Extends Service Portfolio

Gulf Craft, one of the world’s top 10 superyacht-building shipyards, has launched a new online portal to list yachts and boats for resale. The new listings webpage on Gulf Craft’s 360-degree service portfolio. The company offers to buy back its own boats and yachts from owners of Gulf Craft products looking to trade-in and trade-up. The pre-owned craft are then listed online for purchase by other interested buyers. The webpage offers buyers the ability to tailor their searches by model, brand, year of delivery and location as well as send purchase queries to the Gulf Craft team. As part of the policy of selling used craft, Gulf Craft will provide factory warranty of up to 6 months making the vessels ‘certified preowned yachts and boats’. The announcement comes just ahead of the Dubai Pre-owned Boat Show 2014 which will take place from November 27th to 29th at Dubai Creek Marina. Last year’s event attracted more than 5000 visitors.

Mulder Turkey Dealership

In addition to Russia and France, Mulder Shipyard is now also being represented in Turkey. Mulder Shipyard signed an agency agreement with Ahmet Hanif, the Managing Director of the Turkish HNF Yachting during the Cannes Yachting Festival. HNF Yachting is very experienced in selling large sailing yachts. With the Mulder Shipyard dealership, they will expand the sales of high quality luxury motoryachts. HNF Yachting represented Mulder Shipyard at the International Istanbul Boat Show last September.

Nordhavn Add New Broker

Chuck Pickover joins Nordhavn Yachts Southeast bringing with him nearly 30 years experience in yacht brokerage sales. He most recently spent time selling Nordhavns with Yacht Tech and is excited to come to Nordhavn where he can “build upon the experience and relationships” he developed there. A Miami native, Chuck always had a passion for the sea, and started his career in yacht sales with the renowned Allied Marine Group. Although inexperienced at the time, he made up for it with perseverance, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. He spent the next 17 years at Allied selling hundreds of boats. He followed up his time at Allied with two years at Lazzara Yachts before starting his own brokerage firm, CMP Yacht Sales. He teamed with Sun Power Diesel and turned the partnership into the nation’s top Rampage dealership. Chuck’s vast knowledge of the boating market will serve customers well, no matter what boat they might be looking for, but he is especially keen to work with Nordhavn prospects. 

Otam New Monte Carlo Dealer

Monte Carlo Boat Sales founded by Massimo Aggeri and Petteri Turunen, both with more than 25 years of experience in sales of prestigious brands like Riva, and currently partners of Sanlorenzo and Pirelli Inflatables, add the OTAM brand to their prestigious portfolio. 

Outer Reef Makes Another Hit

A short update to let you know that Outer Reef Yachts has yet again won for the third time in a row the industry’s top award for outstanding quality, performance and customer satisfaction. The company’s latest 800 series launching Ti-Punch won the AIM (Active Media Interest) top award at a ceremony at the Fort Lauderdale yacht show this last week. AIM publish over six yachting titles and their respective journalists selected the Outer Reef 800 series for its top honours award.

Riviera Acknowledged Best of Best

The very versatile SUV collection from iconic Australian boat-builder Riviera is set to scale even greater heights after the series flagship 565 model secured Best Motoryacht honours at the biggest boat show in the world. The prestigious Editors Choice awards for the ‘best of the best' in production and semi-custom yachts were announced at a special gala presentation during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, hosted by Active Interest Media (AIM) Marine Group. The sporty and adventurous 565 stood out from a sea of contenders for judges in the 50-59 feet category, endorsing Riviera’s credentials as a world-class builder of luxury yachts and reinforcing its position as Australia’s most-awarded boat-builder ever. Riviera chairman and owner Rodney Longhurst said the high-performance features and flexible design of the 565 SUV were certainly hard to ignore – catering for both the avid angler and the cruising entertainer. Mr Longhurst, on his return from Fort Lauderdale, paid tribute to the team of 430 international designers, engineers and master craftsmen at Riviera’s 14-hectare, state-of-the-art facility at Coomera on Australia’s Gold Coast. AIM Marine Group publishes a prestigious stable of boating titles including, Power & Motoryacht magazine, Yachts International, Sail, PassageMaker, Soundings, Anglers Journal and Soundings Trade Only. Mr Longhurst said the judges in each category were armed with precise selection criteria after editors from across the AIM Group nominated boats that were solid, well designed, built to high quality and performance. Riviera Director of Brand and Communications, Stephen Milne, said the team from AIM Marine Group’s Power & Motor Yacht magazine were scheduled to put the stylish and sophisticated new 6000 Sport Yacht through her paces this month. 

Selene Rendezvous and Rally Success

After the success of the first event, the second Selene Yachts Rendezvous in June again took place in the beautiful Marina Punat in Croatia. The rendezvous saw nine yachts and their owners, various journalists and other interested parties come together to enjoy a varied programme. It included informative events such as a presentation about safety at sea, as well as exciting highlights such as a battle scene onboard. Naturally, the yachts were also taken out for a spin on the water as well. Immediately following the rendezvous, Selene Yachts hosted a rally for the Selene owners. This included a visit to the historic city of Rab and excursions to nearby nature parks, such as the Kornati National Park and Krka waterfalls. We are already preparing for a third rendezvous next year!

Selene Charter Service Europe

Selene Yachts Europe now offers people the chance to experience the pleasure of being onboard a Selene even if they are not yet ready to buy a brand-new yacht themselves. Since September Selene has three Trawler yachts available for charter. The Selene 54 Too Slow and Selene 62 Silver Fox can be booked from Port de La Napoule in France. This is the perfect starting point for a sophisticated trip along the French Côte d’Azur, with its wealth of picturesque and historic coastal towns. The Selene 53 Visa M has its home berth in the Adriatic, in Dalmatia, Croatia, which also offers a stunning coastline, as the owners of Nomades confirm.

Sunseeker Appoint New Chief Executive Officer

Sunseeker International today announces the appointment of Phil Popham as Chief Executive Officer. Phil will join the company on 1 January 2015. Phil joins Sunseeker from Jaguar Land Rover where he has had a long and successful career over the last 25 years contributing to a major UK-based automotive success story. He has worked most of his career at Jaguar Land Rover, latterly as Group Marketing Director but he has also held the positions of Group Sales Director, Managing Director of Land Rover, as well as working in North America and South Africa for the company. During his time at the company he presided over a period of rapid growth and success for these iconic brands.

Sunseeker Appoints New Financial Officer

Sunseeker International today announces the appointment of Hugues Jacquin as Chief Financial Officer, with immediate effect. Jacquin joins Sunseeker from Bombardier where he has had a long and successful career over the last 18 years within the Aerospace and Transportation Divisions. His mandates have spanned between North America, Europe and Asia. Sunny Thakrar, previously Group Finance Director, will now focus on his principal role as Group Executive Director, overseeing Design and Development, HR, Operations, IT and Supply Chain functions and with responsibility for driving change and performance improvement initiatives throughout the business.

Viking Really Big Show

The waves of people have receded, the boats have returned to their ports, and while memories will linger, the 2014 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is in the history book. And what a show it was. The Viking display of 15 boats attracted over 7,000 visitors during the five day run and for countless good reasons. We introduced our new flagship 92 Enclosed Bridge Convertible, the just launched 75 Motor Yacht and the inaugural appearance of the exciting 52 Sport Tower. Each day was marked with significant events like media press conferences to announce the new models with accompanying photo shoots. A flurry of notable awards flowed in including AIM Editor's Choice commendations for the 92 Enclosed Bridge Convertible and the 52 Sport Tower as best in their respective classes. Viking's co-founders Bill and Bob Healey were justifiably recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award for their concerted dedication, contributions and efforts to promote and grow the marine industry over the past 50 years. Viking president Pat Healey spoke at the American Boat Builders and Repairers Association Business Leaders Reception Breakfast. We even managed to christen a new Viking convertible in our display, while welcoming the thrilled owner into the Viking family.

Viking Is More Then Just Fishing

Another block of dates you need to mark on your calendar is April 8-11, 2015, when the 2nd Annual Viking Key West Challenge family fishing tournament takes place. Last year the inaugural event celebrated our 50th Anniversary and this year we have more fun times scheduled for the entire family including two great days of fishing, a kid's dockside tournament, a lay day pool party and barbeque, daily prizes, plenty of fun activities, and a bunch of great looking trophies to celebrate your participation. Get started by checking out the Viking Key West Challenge website or on facebook, reserve a slip at your favorite Key West marina and then email Viking. Slips are limited so don't delay. 

Viking In A Win

Captain KJ Zeher kicked off the winter sailfish season with a win! Fishing on Mike Walsh's Viking 65 De Bait Able, the crew released four sails to take top honors at the 19th Annual Jeb Bush Florida Classic Sailfish Tournament in Fort Lauderdale. Captain Brian Komer on the Viking 62, along with the Honeywell Corporation and mates Mike Provow and Scott Adams, finished in Third Place. This charity event attracts elite fishing teams and has raised over $6.7 million to support the research and care programs of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Wider Surveyors Dinner in Fort Lauderdale

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show offered a great opportunity to discuss the technical aspects of Wider 150' with new clients, brokers, and some of the world's finest marine surveyors. Wider Sales and Marketing Office, in collaboration with Wider Yachts USA and Camper & Nicholsons International, organized for an event at the Harbour Beach Marriott Hotel. After a lively discussion over cocktails and canapés, the formal presentation started. A group of recommended surveyors enjoyed a review of the company and an overview of the diesel electric system. Valuable feedback was exchanged, and many of the participants visited the Wider stand to discuss further details.

New Model: Castagnola 38 WJ

On 22 November 2014 in Lavagna shipyard facilities the futuristic and traditional Castagnola 38 WJ was launched.  The new Castagnola flagship is a super yacht with a length of over 124 feet and an eight meters plus of beam, and as the tradition of this builder dictates is completely built in wood. The hull construction of 38 WJ has been done by mean of the well proven triple planking method; with the additional use of fiberglass and resin improving strength and water resistance. Indeed Castagnola 38 WJ is one of the largest super yachts ever built in wood cold molding, and will be triple water jets powered. Its name is “Angra Too”, as an amazing island of Brazil.  The exterior areas have been designed to ensure maximum comfort and continuity from bow to stern. The cockpit, with a comfortable dining area is protected by the fly bridge and the walk around passages, and is connected through two staircase with the spacious aft swimming platform, the real point of contact with the sea and docking area for the many toys available to owners and guests. The flybridge, a large terrace of 65 sqm positioned at over four meters height from the sea, will be furnished with just few fixed elements to be flexible to the owners and guests needs; interesting at this regard are the two extendable sunbeds as well as a handy bar, a table for twelve and the sofas available at side or front running. At the bow, the wheelhouse with seating for the captain, pilot and passengers. The interiors, developed by the Andrea Borzelli and Sara Berta architects firm as well as the exterior style in cooperation with Giovanni Castagnola, have plenty of space and a habitability both in the day and the night zone. The main deck offers a large living room at the stern, in direct communication with the exterior, furnished with a dining table for twelve people, a living room with two sofas and a fully stocked wet bar. Amidships there is a single guest cabin, a pantry area located between the saloon and the kitchen which is very large and well connected with the crew area and the starboard corridor. The forward area is entirely dedicated to the owners quarter, whit a large full beam cabin, two bathrooms, desk area, walk-in closet and a gorgeous sea view.  Four cabins on the lower deck, each with its own bathroom, along with a comfortable crew mess can accommodate up to seven crew members. The guest area is characterized by two twin cabins and two very comfortable double cabins served by a corridor full of storage spaces.  A modern gym is placed between the crew and the guest area and is directly connected with the upper deck via a dedicated staircase.  Finally in the raised pilot house, next to the dashboard area there is a clever owner office. As far as technical aspects concern, the boat will be powered by three MTU 1948hp each, coupled to three Kamewa water-jets through ZF gearbox and double elastic coupling. Hull lines have been specially designed for the particular propulsion layout, and have been tank tested and optimized. The Castagnola 38 WJ reaches a 28 knots cruise and a 31 knots max speed.

Technical Data:

LOA - 38 m (124.6ft)

Waterline Length - 31.3 m

Beam - 8.1 m

Draft - 1.2 m

Displacement - 146 t

Fuel Capacity - 1800 l

Water Capacity - 2500 l

Accommodation - 10 guests in 5 cabins

Engines - 3 x MTU 12v2000 M94 1948hp

Propulsion - Kamewa 55A3 water jets

Speed - 31 knots max, 28 knots cruise

Construction - cold molded triple planking wood with resin and fiberglass

Project - Giovanni Castagnola, Francesco Rogantin naval architecture, Andrea Borzelli and Sara Berta interior and exterior

Certification - Rina C, Hull Y unrestricted navigation

www.castagnola.biz

Improve-it = Numarine 78 HT

Numarine announced an exciting face lift improvement of the extremely successful 78 Hardtop model.  Undoubtedly a most popular model in Numarine's range, the 78 HT has received postive reviews the world over thanks to striking and unique aesthetics coupled with astounding performance and attention to detail. This new improvement of the 78 follows design cues from the recently launched 70 Hardtop.  That means that the 78 HT gets subtle aesthetic changes which have resulted in a revitalized look whilst still retaining the existing signature design. Most notable in these design changes is the large one piece striking new hull view windows serving the owners stateroom at midships. 

www.numarine.com

New Model: Hatteras GT70

Since Versa Capital became the owners of Hatteras in Summer 2013 there was a lot of questions asked about the future of the legendary North Carolina boat builder. The new GT70 is a positive reply that that the current management wants to see Hatteras move only in one direction; forward. The GT70 follows the recent years introduced GT models, with custom design ques in the exterior looks department being an important element.  This GT70 also takes the mantle of the flagship of the Hatteras GT series which today features a total of four models; 54, 60 and 63.  Accommodation wise the GT70 is a sport-fishing machine with a luxurious accommodation, and performance to match even fully custom builds.  The interior accommodation will feature five double cabins below served with four shower heads. Owners stateroom is located at midships but is not full beam, and will be looking into the starboard side of the hull.  Two further double cabins will be located further to midships and will feature bunk berths, giving the idea of being used as crew rooms. Power options will be standard 1900hp Cat engines, or optional 2600hp MTU units.

Technical Data:

LOA - 22.45 m (73.8ft) with bow pulpit

Hull Length - 21.4 m

Waterline Length - 18.5 m

Beam - 6.5 m

Draft - 1.52 m

Displacement - 54431 kg

Fuel Capacity - 7571 l + optional 2971 l

Water Capacity - 1249 l

Accommodation - 10 guest berths in 5 cabins

Engines - 2 x Cat C32A 1900hp, MTU 16V2000 2600hp

Propulsion - line shaft

Speed - 40 knots maximum 

Construction - Isophthalic gel coat, Vinilester resin below waterline, solid fiberglass resin infused hull bottom, closed cell foam core on hull sides

www.hatterasyachts.com

Project: Nordhavn 96

Pacific Asian Enterprises has expanded the Nordhavn line with the addition of the brand new 96. With three hulls already sold, this new design looks to serve as a stepping stone between the large cruiser and super-yacht categories. For the enthusiast who is seeking super-yacht like style and features in a boat that is still able to be managed with no or minimal crew, the Nordhavn 96 is the ideal solution.  She is based on the hull of the very successful Nordhavn 86, and incorporates a three meters hull cockpit extension that allows for space bumps in several areas of the boat including the crew area, saloon and sky lounge. Additional room is also found within the outside deck, aft of the sky lounge as well as the flybridge, which are both lengthened. Chief of Design, Jeff Leishman, N.A., said there will be no changes to fuel capacity and that there may be slight gains in fuel burn due to the N96’s longer water line. Meanwhile, there will be relatively little increase in displacement.  The Nordhavn 96 is an efficient way to give a customer the additional space they are seeking without the drastic cost of building an entirely new hull. Nordhavn has employed this method of thinking with several of its other models including the N52 based on the N47, the N60 and 63 based on the N55, the N68 based on the N64, and the N76 based on the N72, and the approach has been a hugely successful one. The stretched out models proved themselves to be so advantageous that, as a result, they have become more popular than their predecessors. And contrary to a recently published report, there is absolutely zero downside to adding hull extensions. Like the N86, the interior of the Nordhavn 96 is customize able to the owner’s personal vision. She accommodates eight comfortably within the VIP and three guest staterooms, and includes a captain’s cabin and crew quarters with separate entrance. She is propelled with twin Caterpillar 1015hp engines allowing a cruising speed of 10 knots and carries more than 26000 liters of fuel.

www.nordhavn.com

Improve-it = Sunseeker 55 Manhattan

At the 2014 Southampton boat show, Sunseeker have teamed up with The White Company to dress the interior of a 55 Manhattan in their latest collection, ‘Hotel Chic’. With a large number of clients choosing to style their homes with prestigious products, the Sunseeker London Group invited The White Company to showcase a “White Sunseeker”, proving that their collection is for more than just a home. From beautiful lotion scents and stunning candle holders perfect for evenings on the aft deck, to beautiful white 800 thread count bed linen for the finest nights sleep, The White Company products are harmonious with Sunseeker interior styling. The Sunseeker London Group are proud to be able to offer The White Company collection to any client looking to accessories their boat with the finest products.

www.sunseeker.com

New Model: MJM 50z

The new MJM 50z was introduced at the 2014 Newport International Boat Show. Hull one titled Zing featured the triple 435hp Volvo with IPS600 pod drives. Top speeds with this set up is 38 knots. Without steadying sails, all powerboats roll the MJM's less than most due to their low center of gravity. But, the single biggest opportunity for improving comfort afloat on a powerboat is to eliminate rolling. The 50z is the first yacht to offer this leading edge technology as standard equipment. Introduced five years ago, over 1,500 Seakeeper units are now in use worldwide.  The 50z is built lighter and stronger in the USA of pre-preg epoxy, Kevlar, E-Glass and Corecell to exceed ISO Category A Ocean requirements, the highest reating for seaworthiness issued by IMCI, the International Marine Certification Institute in Brussels. And, its sleek profile and low center of gravity make it more safe, seaworthy and fun to drive. Large boats can be intimidating to operate. But, you can park a 50z solo, thanks to 360° visibility, joystick docking and a single level deck from the wheel aft to cockpit side-opening doors onto a floating dock. The MJM 50z offers the best of both worlds: entertaining space for family picnics or cocktail parties on a single level deck. Plus, hospitable staterooms for live-aboard cruising comfort not just sleeping cabins below decks. The 50z is available with two layouts. standard version is a single master stateroom forward, with dinette and galley to midships. The optional replaces the L-shaped saloon to starboard with a cabin featuring a double french berth.

Technical Data:

LOA - 16.84 m (55.3ft)

Beam - 4.57 m

Draft - 1.17 m

Displacement - 13855 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 1968 l

Water Capacity - 643 l

Accommodation - 2 berths in 1 cabin, or 4 berths in 2 cabins

Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 435hp, 3 x Volvo D6 435hp

Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives

Speed - 40 knots max, 35 knots cruise with 3 x 435hp

Hull Shape - modified Vee with 19 degrees dead-rise aft

Construction - Prepreg Epoxy, Kevlar, E-glass, CoreCell core, with Awlcraft 2000 paint

Project - Doug Zern

Certification - ISO CE A

www.mjmyachts.com

Project: Sea Ray L590 Fly

When Sea Ray announced its new class of luxury yachts, the L-Class, at February’s Miami Boat Show, it marked a new chapter in the company’s esteemed history. Now that chapter gains an exciting new development with the introduction of the L590 Fly.  With its graceful profile, social flybridge and easy livability, the L590 Fly joins its larger L-Class siblings, the L650 and L650 Fly, in embodying a distinct marriage of style and substance. Polished aesthetics are matched by effortless ergonomics, sleek lines and state-of-the-art propulsion technology.  The L590 Fly is loaded with forward-thinking features that demonstrate Sea Ray’s Next Wave initiative, a commitment to innovative thinking and inspired execution. On the lower level, living space abounds, with a large master suite with private head, two additional staterooms and a well-appointed guest head. Add to all of this the large and accommodating bridge up top, and the L590 Fly guarantees that guests can settle in for long days of good company.  Further, the L-Class offers a bespoke customer experience, including a comprehensive three-year, bow-to-stern warranty, a concierge-guided buying experience with personalized delivery, and 24-hour dedicated customer service throughout North America.  Performance will also astound. Breakthroughs including an optional Seakeeper gyroscope deliver stability in any seas, and Sea Ray’s impeccable hull construction means unparalleled ride quality. Impressive performance and control can be expected from a propulsion system that features triple Zeus pods powered by Cummins 600hp diesel engines. 

www.searay.com

New Model: Viking 92 Enclosed Bridge Convertible

It was definitely one of the most awaited new models to come for the year 2014, from the USA. The new Viking 92 flagship, is an important moment in production sport-fish yachts history as in recent years these seem to have got on the size, bigger is better bug. The new Viking 92 increases the New Jersey located boat builder size by ten feet, but these three meters make an important statement and now the knocking on the door is for the one hundred feet barrier. Like most of all new Vikings the 92 is a completely new model, with hull number one being a more all year user friendly Enclosed Bridge version.  As any Viking the 92 Enclosed Bridge boast full sport-fisherman friendly features, from a super large aft cockpit, to a raised optional tower.  The accommodation plan will features five double guest cabins; with an owners stateroom located midships, and a VIP room forward and three other guest cabins in between. A crew cabins area with a single or twin rooms will be located astern behind the central located engine room.  Power is twin Cat 1900 or MTU 2600hp engines.

Technical Data:

LOA - 28.45 m (93.4ft)

Beam - 7.03 m

Draft - 1.77 m

Displacement - 88450 kg loaded

Fuel Capacity - 15141 l

Water Capacity - 1703 l

Accommodation - 10 guests in five cabins, 1 or 2 crew cabins sleeping 2 to 4 members

Engines - 2 x Cat C32A 1900hp, MTU 16V2000 CR 2600hp

Propulsion - line shafts

www.vikingyachts.com

Project: Cheoy Lee 150 Explorer

Pushed by the signing of new designer Jon Overing and following the popularity of the Cheoy Lee long-range explorer yachts, a new generation redesign could further enhance the noteworthy efficiency of the displacement steel hull. A powerful single engine Caterpillar 1911hp, with a diesel propulsion engine forward as backup, combined with the large rudder and hydrodynamic bulbous hull, deliver 35% lower fuel consumption. This efficiency is strategic, giving better efficiency and an intent to add a "green" factor to its Explorer series.  While the Explorer yacht's heritage lies in Cheoy Lee's tradition of building durable, long-range commercial ships, the luxury consumer amenities of the model are unsurpassed by other such vessels in its class. The 150 Explorer can travel self-sustained for long distances without sacrificing a single creature comfort. The increased fuel capacity now enables travel from seven to nine thousand nautical miles, enabling exploration of multiple destinations in one cruise. The new 150 Explorer also has increased living space, in keeping with the design philosophies of Cheoy Lee. Utilizing the full capacity of the vessel's depth, piping and wiring are all conveniently located beneath the sole, easily accessible for maintenance, leaving more efficient use of space above for spacious cabins, salon and galley areas.  The Cheoy Lee 150 Explorer's three and a half deck layout provides for great interior volume and versatility. 

www.cheoylee.com

New Model: Absolute 60 Fly

Absolute continues to be a name on the rise, and this new 60 Fly model proves what a solid boat building reality the North Italian builder is nowadays.  For the 60 Fly the Absolute Research Lab follows the looks of the larger 64 and 72 models of the same line. Still the Absolute 60 Fly has one of the most interesting upper profiles in its size and still feeling very much a bigger yacht thanks to its deep side decks and overall looks.  The 60 Fly is a three double guest cabin motor yacht with the standard nowadays layout of full beam owners room, forward VIP, and twin guest cabin to starboard. A two berth crew cabin with private shower head is located aft. The Absolute 60 Fly as all models from the Piacenza builder is IPS pod drive propelled, and will have Volvo 626 or 725hp engine choices. Hull one of the 60 Fly featured the larger 725hp option which gave interesting 34 knots wide open throttle speeds and 28 cruise.  

Technical Data:

LOA - 18.4 m (60.4ft)

Beam - 5.05 m

Displacement - 28 t

Fuel Capacity - 2400 l

Water Capacity - 600 l

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

Engines - 2 x Volvo D11 626hp, D11 725hp

Propulsion - forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drive

Speed - 28 knots cruise, 34 knots max with Volvo 725hp

Project - Absolute Research Lab

Certification - CE B

www.absoluteyachts.com 

Project: Sargo 31

The brand Sargo stands for an all-season boat made in Finland. It’s a premium sport utility boat that is made to last, provide excellent performance and give great value for the money. These qualities are especially true for the renewed Sargo 31, a mid-range model that is precisely as quick, gracious and comfortable as its predecessor while offering interesting novelties. The current Sargo 31 has two double cabins sleeping four persons below, and can reach speeds up to 42 knots, with the largest engine choice being twin 300hp on stern-drive.   Now it for January Dusseldorf boat show to see how Sargo will improve this.

www.sargoboats.fi

New Model: Custom Line 28 Navetta

Ferretti presents its latest Custom Line model with the new 28 Navetta. Unlike the previous Navetta, designer Zuccon took a more explorer yacht look in the new 28, this enhanced by a rising shear-line which sets the bow looking higher, and the raised deck on top.  Launched in Cannes 2014, the 28 Navetta main selling feature is its innovative stern dual mode transom; this offering a wet dock launch system and space for a four meters plus tender, and the expansion of the bathing platform into a beach area which measures fifteen square meters.  Inside the 28 Navetta offers a four double guest rooms below deck, and an owners stateroom on the main floor forward. Crew space is for six persons in three cabins located in the bow tip below deck.  Ferretti also offers an additional layout for the main deck with an option of an astern bar serving the aft cockpit, taking space from the lounging sofa.

Technical Data:

LOA - 28.31 m (92.9ft)

Hull Length - 23.9 m

Waterline Length - 23.8 m

Beam - 7 m

Draft - 2.21 m

Displacement - 89500 kg unladen, 106000 kg loaded

Fuel Capacity - 12400 l

Water Capacity - 2000 l

Accommodation - 10 guests in 5 cabins, 6 crew in 3 cabins

Max Persons - 20

Engines - 2 x Man 1200hp

Propulsion - line shaft 

Speed - 16 knots max, 13 knots cruise

Range - 640 nm at 13 knots

Project - Zuccon Internation lines and interior, Ferretti AYT Engineering

www.ferretti.com

Project: F&S 75 Converitble Hull 23

Custom sportfish boat builder FandS is currently building its largest yacht to date.  Numbered hull 23, this is the 75 Convertible, and as all FandS is to be built in jig method, cold molded wood and epoxy plus fiberglass construction.  So far Jim Floyd and his team are very sparse about the details of the new FandS flagship, but we can be sure that it will be fast, have a sea worthy variable Vee shape hull, and be as its other smaller sister of high finishing standard.

www.fsyachts.com

New Model: Cobalt A40

With the new A40, Cobalt is trying again to enter a bigger size market. One of the known high quality builders in the smaller sizes, Cobalt has gained respect in its five decades plus of building boats as a very high profile boat builder thanks to its sea worthy hulls, well engineered and good quality builds. Surprisingly the entrance into the big sizes has always been a bit hard for them, and the 37 and 46 models both had a mild success. Now the new A40 is another try to change all that, and is a very interesting sport cruiser with a super exterior and well made interior offering overnight accommodation or a cruise with sleeping capacity for four persons. But surely what will stand out in the A40 is the exterior with its big central sun-pad, large L-shaped exterior wet-bar, and two L-shape settees.  Cobalt A40 can be powered by petrol or diesel, with hp range starting at 330hp up to a 430hp.
Technical Data:

LOA - 12 m (39.6ft)

Beam - 3.66 m

Draft - 1.01 m

Displacement - 9038 kg dry

Fuel Capacity - 939 l (diesel), 852 l (petrol)

Water Capacity - 189 l

Accommodation - 2+ 2 berths

Engines - Petrol Gas - 2 x Mercruiser 8.2 Mag HO Ect 430hp, Volvo V8 CE 430hp

Diesel - Mercruiser TDI 4.2 l 370hp, Volvo D6 330hp, D6 370hp, D6 400hp

Propulsion - Mercruiser of Volvo dual propeller stern drive

Hull Shape - deep Vee with 20 degrees dead-rise aft

www.cobaltboats.com

Dreamline Yachts New Web Site

Dreamline Yachts is a new brand coming from Italy which presents its World wide web virtual showroom.  As many recent new brands Dreamline has behind it, the experience of individuals from Peter Zuber to CEO Paolo Bencivenni.  Design of the new Dreamline yachts of line of super yachts is trusted to Enrico Gobbi Team4Design firm for the lines and Giovanni Arrabito who presented an innovative Lama Chineless Wave hull. This hull shape is interesting since it can cruise very efficient at 12 knots, and still reach 30 knots of max speed.  Dreamline offers a range of six super yachts from 26 to 49 meters; 26, 30, 34, 40, 46, and 49. So far the 26 has been launched with a 34 being in advanced construction stages and launching to come in 2015.  Dreamline Yachts new website takes you around with the following buttons; DL Yachts, Fleet, Sales and Aftersales, News and Events, Press Area, and Contacts.

www.dlyachtsdreamline.com 

Project: Storm S-100

Derived from the S-78 in the looks department, the S-100 is instantly recognizable as a distinctive Storm yacht but with even more graceful looks thanks to her additional length. She is intended for owners looking to cruise in comfort with an accommodation layout able to sleep a party of eight guests in four distinctive cabins.  Crew accommodation will be four persons in two seperate cabins forward, The S-100 is to be Storm entry into super yacht size and will meet MCA charter requirements and the engineering and calculation work has been completed to meet all upcoming regulations on weight and stability.  Top speed is estimated at 24 knots with the larger engine option.

www.stormyachts.com

Redundancies Confusion

With the new building market looking quite healthy for the most part of 2014 it was interesting to see what happen just after the big fall European boat shows ended. In fact some of the most popular motor yacht brands from Europe announced redundancies to there staff. 

The question to this comes automatic, has the market performed below the expectations of these top European brands, or the competition of smaller more custom brands is gaining ground. It is interesting times, with totally new or revamped classic brands entering the larger sizes, with a different vision and a bigger ear to client demands.

In recent years it has been an evolutionary market and the scissors thanks to today various type of media is also faster in spreading latest design, and technology ideas. In the eighties and nineties it used to take about five to ten years for the latest feature to hit the market to arrive into other boats. 

For example when in 1985 Ferretti presented the first tender garage on the 35 Porto Rotondo, it took a year for the first to be seen on another Italian boat. The second boat with tender a garage will be the Italcraft C51 Classic, and after that in 1991 came the Sunseeker 60 Renegade. Still up until the mid nineties only a handful of boats offered a tender garage.  Same goes for the integrated windshield by Pershing with the first example the 40, appearing in 1988. It will take five years for the Italian competition to catch the bug and about six for the others.  

Today unfortunately for the strike of genius of a designer, naval architect or engineer an edge in design does not last much and patents are still a bit unheard for in the most part of the nautical industry.