Monday, March 24, 2025

New Model: Bluefix Boatworks NorthCape 51

Bluefix Boatsworks from down under New Zealand has just launched its largest build to date with the NorthCape 51 it launched at end of 2024.  The NorthCape Custom 51 has been designed to deliver exceptional fishing performance coupled with a luxury interior.  The 51 has a hull designed to enable anglers to chase down fish fast, while keeping the cockpit as dry as possible.  The Bluefix NorthCape 51 is build with epoxy foam core construction with full resin infusion of all components and flat panels. The hull and superstructure has been hand laid and vacuum consolidated.  The full gloss teak interior will be both functional and luxurious. The North Cape 51 features an aft drop-down window will create a very social space which unites with the aft cockpit.  The lower deck features a three cabin, two bathroom layout.  The Bluefix NorthCape 51 is standard powered by twin Scania 750hp for top speeds up to thirty knots and a cruise of 22, but the first featured 875hp units.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.6 m (51.1ft)
Beam - 5.2 m
Draft - 
Displacement - 
Fuel Capacity - 5200 l
Water Capacity - 800 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Scania DI 13 750hp, or 875hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - thirty knots max, 22 cruise with 750hp
Construction - resin infused with epoxy resin and PVC foam core

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Performance Marine New Web Site

Performance Marine presents its new web site. Performance Marine was founded in 1983 by Cleto Cranchi and Uschi Woebel, with this last taking full ownership of the company over the years.  Performance will debut with the Performance 707 in 1983 as designed by Albino Pozzi.  The 707 will be followed by the 607 a couple years later and eventually larger models, like the 907 in 1992.  In 2016 Performance Marine is sold to T Eckhard Spoerr and Alium Technology AG who move the offices in Germany.  Performance has in 2021 transferred itself to Hamburg, Germany, with the operation side of the business transferred, and boat building at the new premises starting from this 2025 year.  Currently Performance has three new models all in project design stages being on offer; 90X, 120X, and 150X.  The 90X is the first model of the new era to arrive; planned to launch in the first half of 2025.  Performance Marine new website is available in German and English language and takes you around with the following buttons; About Us, The New 90X, Blog, and Contact. 
Production History:
707 1984-91
607 1986-2004
707 (ii) 1992-96
907/1001 1992/2021-2023
1107/1201 1994/2015-2024
707 (iii) 1997-2018
1407/1501 2003-2015/2024
607 (ii)/701 2005/2015-19
807/901 /2015-2024
1307 2008-2015
2016 Eckhard Spoerr and Alium Technology AG ownership
90X 2025-
120X 2026-
The first Performance Marine the 707 by Cleto Cranchi

Saturday, March 22, 2025

Project: Admiral 100m Project Titanium

 
Sitting at 100 meters Project Titanium is to be the largest Admiral Yacht build to date, expanding its current largest build by 26 meters.  Project Titanium is designed by Winch, a secretive project which started to take shape in 2021 and is supposed to launch later this year, what is currently the largest super yacht currently build in Italy.  For a country which has a global market share over 50% for super yachts above 24 meters in build that is no small feat.  Admiral Project Titanium will feature Azipods type propulsion, and is to be powered by Diesel Electric.  Since becoming part of the Italian Sea Group in 2011, Admiral has changed its building demographic not little, from being specialized in fast planning alloy super yachts under fifty meters till 2010, and a competitor to Baglietto, it has become proficient in building always larger super yachts above fifty meter, in both semi-custom platforms and fully custom builds.    

Friday, March 21, 2025

Eddie Jordan OBE 1948 - 2025

Serial yacht owner, previous Formula One team owner Eddie Jordan has died at the age of 76, in Cape Town South Africa, on Thursday twentieth March at his home in Cape Town.  Eddie Jordan was born on thirtieth March 1948 in Dublin, Ireland.  The past December 2024, Eddie Jordan announced that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate and bladder cancer earlier in the year.  Before starting his motorsports career at the age of 22, Eddie worked at the Bank of Ireland.  At the age of 23 Eddie won the Irish Kart Championship in 1971. Three years later, he would move to Formula Ford to make his mark, winning the Irish Formula Atlantic Championship in 1978, racing in the British Formula Three and Formula Two and even doing a small amount of testing for McLaren.  Jordan founded his first team, Eddie Jordan Racing, in 1979, competing in the British Formula Three, and Formula 3000, winning  the former championship in 1987 with Johnny Herbert.  In 1991 Eddie entered Formula One with Jordan Grand Prix, the team which debuted Michael Schumacher into Formula One in what was the team's debut season.  Jordan Grand Prix lasted till January 2005 having its best race result in 1998 when drivers Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished first and second at the Belgian Grand Prix, and in 1999 when Heinz-Harald Frentzen secured two wins for the team throughout the season, eventually finishing third overall in the drivers' championship.  Jordan Grand Prix was sold in early 2005 bought by the Midland Group, financed by Canadian businessman Alex Shnaider.  Jordan's wealth of experience and keen racing acumen resulted in a stint as chief analyst for Formula One coverage on the BBC, and later Channel Four from 2009 up till his death in 2025. Jordan passion for sports would continue far beyond his motor racing days, with Jordan becoming a shareholder in the Celtic Football Club and the co-owner of the historic London Irish Rugby Club, the later owned today by his son Kyle.  Eddie Jordan was a boating lover, born by the sea on the east coast of Ireland not far from Dublin, boats have always been in his blood, spending the early part of his formative teenage years competing on board the International 420 Class dinghy.  Following his entry into motor racing, yachting will be side lined, only for him to return as a multiple boat and yacht owner over the years.  He started as a repeat Sunseeker owner, having owned ten builds from the boat builder of Poole from 1986 to 2017 and often ordering the biggest yacht.  He was eventually given the title as Sunseeker ambassador, and from 2018 to 2021 also served on Oyster yachts board of directors and again as brand ambassador.  Some of Eddie Jordan boats and yachts over the years include the following; Sunseeker Portofino 21 XPS 1986, Sunseeker 121 Yacht 2007 to 2012, Elan 450 2008 to 2010, Oyster 655 2011 to 2012, Oyster 885GT from 2012 to 2014, Sunseeker 155 Yacht 2014 to 2017, Oyster 495 2022 to 2023.  Eddie Jordan's latest yacht from 2018 up till the past December 2024 was a 2007 hull two of four of the Perini Navi 45M semi-custom build to order series.  Eddie Jordan is survived by his wife Marie McCarthy, and his four children; Zoe, Miki, Zak and Kyle.

New Model: Columbus Atlantique 47M

Columbus Yachts announces the launch of the first unit of the Atlantique 47 metres. The vessel has been named m/y Acqua Chiara. Unmistakable exteriors with taut yet fluid lines, which widen at the centre of the boat and then taper at the stern and bow. Unquestionably an innovative design that focuses on liveability on board and unobstructed contact with the sea. The Columbus Atlantique 47M is build in a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, and was specifically designed to reach a volume of 499 Gross Tonnage. Boasting an exterior and interior design by Hot Lab studio, Atlantique 47 represents a significant new stage in the development of the Columbus design.  The stern lines, as with the entire Atlantique range, are certainly the focal element of this superyacht, which makes sailing inspiration its real identity. At the stern, the outdoor spaces spread over three close levels: from bow to stern we find a first covered dining area, a living area with a scenic pool and opening balconies, and finally a platform with transformer, just above the water. A second large pool is located at the bow of the main deck and is served by a sunbathing area, a circular sofa and side tables.  The interiors are modern, at times almost urban with combinations of materials in visual and sensorial contrast: leather and white and dark marble, glass and mosaic, all by Sicis, in different shades and patterns.  The Master cabin is located forward on the main deck while, below deck, there are two king-size guest suites and two cabins with twin beds, all with private bathrooms in marble and mosaic.  The crew is made up of eight people accommodated in four comfortable cabins forward on the lower deck, whereas the Captain cabin is adjacent to the wheelhouse.  The garage on the starboard side houses a five-metre tender, while at the bow on the port side we find the second garage for the rescue tender and two jet skis.  Twin Cat engines of 1350 horsepower give a maximum speed of fifteen knots, cruising at fourteen and 3400 nautical miles at twelve knots long range capability. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 47 m (154ft)
Beam - 9.11 m
Draft - 2.4 m
Displacement - 496 gt *volume
Fuel Capacity - 53,500 l
Water Capacity - 6000 l
Accommodation - ten guests in five cabins, nine crew in five cabins
Engine - 2 x Cats C32 Acert 1350hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - fifteen knots max, fourteen cruise, twelve knots long range
Range - 3400 nautical miles at twelve knots
Hull Shape - displacement
Construction - steel hull aluminium super structure
Project - Hot Lab Studio
Certification - RINA

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Project: Cayman N580

Cayman Yachts from Italy present the project for the N580, as designed by Satura. The Cayman N580 is part of the Navetta range, an explorer inspired cross over yacht. The Cayman Yachts N580 will offer three exterior dining lounging areas; aft deck, fore deck, and flybridge, while its living dining areas are all to be on the main deck, which will feature an astern galley layout located to starboard. The lower deck of the N580 will feature three double en-suited shower heads, with the master stateroom located to midships. The master stateroom will also feature a beauty deck to port side, and a relaxing sofa the other side to starboard. The Cayman N580 is to be powered by twin Volvo 725hp with IPS pod drives.

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

New Model: Sunreef 55 Ultima

Sunreef has debuted the Ultima 55, at the 2025 Dubai boat show, for a catamaran yacht which is also build in the United Arab Emirates.  The 55 is the first model of the Ultima range, which is to feature six models from twelve to 33 meters, and the second model which sees the Polish Sunreef enter into the planning catamaran category, the previous to this being the 40 Open Power from 2018.  The Sunreef Ultima 55 will feature a three double cabins lower deck, with two heads, with the port hull featuring a shared head shower for the two guest cabins, and the starboard hull having an en-suite with larger separate shower and head rooms.  The Ultima 55 is also offered in a two cabin version, where the master stateroom moves to the port hull, and will feature a much larger en-suite located in replacement to the third cabin, and a sofa replacing the space of the shower head.  A single berth crew cabin is located on the starboard hull at midships.  The living in the 55 Ultima is all located on the main deck, what is a symmetric layout, with two L-shaped dinette lounges astern, and two L-shaped counter tops which share domestic appliances, with an offset central to starboard dual seat helm station.  The Sunreef Ultima 55 is available in two power versions, Eco with hyprid power of twin 350kw electric motors plus two by 600hp, and or the Classic version with twin Volvo 480hp couple to IPS pod drives.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.60 m (54.6ft)
Beam - 5.60 m
Draft - 1.3 m with IPS pod drives
Displacement - 
Fuel Capacity - 1500 l
Water Capacity - 300 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, or four berths in two cabins, one crew cabin berth
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 480hp, or 2 x 600hp plus 2 x 350kw electric motors
Propulsion - Volvo IPS650 forward looking dual propeller pod drives
Speed - 35 knots max 25 cruise
Range - 180 nautical miles at 25 knots cruise
Certification - CE B

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Improve-it = Okean 57

During the 2025 Miami boat show Okean Yachts from Brazil presented an updated 57 with an innovative and disruptive design, featuring a unique bow pool. The Okean 57 bow pool is capable of accommodating up to eight people, and holds a water capacity of 2,300 litres of water.  The intelligent system fills the pool with seawater, providing a unique onboard leisure experience. The bow pool is surrounded with anti-slip flooring and side supports to ensure safety and comfort, enhancing the feeling of exclusivity. The Okean 57 is designed by Paolo Ferragni, who presented a sleek sporty yacht maintaining the Brazilian yacht builder modern looking identity in a length just short of eighteen meters and one hundred square meters of usable area. A key feature of the Okean 57 is the seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces, with expandable drop down side bulkheads that increase the deck space living area, offering further spaciousness on the water. The improved Okean 57 is a sport yacht with daytime cruising and leisure spaces in mind. The main salon, connected to the aft deck, offers a lounge and dining area with a 360° navigation view. The aft deck is also equipped with a sliding submersible platform, providing direct access to the water and expanding the entertainment area. On the lower deck, the Okean 57 has a master suite includes a living area, with customizable options such as a full kitchen or an additional second cabin. The Okean 57 is powered by twin Volvo 600hp as standard or optional 725hp with IPS pod drive propulsion.

Monday, March 17, 2025

New Model: Ora Yacht 48

I was walking at the 2024 Genoa boat show, when I saw a recognizable hull line, is that it, is this a re-invented Baia 48 Flash.  It was, but actually it was not, as it this was the new Ora Yacht 48.  My suspicion though was actually half correct as the Ora Yacht 48 is very much based on the successful 48 Flash hull, re-designed by Forma who presented an updated super structure, featuring a single-piece windshield with no barriers to visibility while navigating and a completely new cockpit and cabin layouts. Ora Yacht from Naples is a new brand who starts with this 48 model, with its bases coming from a family who has been doing boat yacht charter business since the Amalfi coast and nearby islands became a thing.  The Ora Yacht 48 comes minimal looking, a sort of classic open yacht launched into the future, which wants to bring the same outside spaces that the current crop of walk-around boats offer.  For doing this the Ora Yacht 48 first unit came with a nearly free cockpit deck, with L-shaped wet bar galley forward to port, under the extended windshield, and two opposite settees which can transform to a dinette or sun-pad, or be removed to make the cockpit area a totally free party space.  The fore deck has also the option to be equipped with floating cushions that can be used as sunbeds and a sofa.  The Ora Yacht 48 also features a Mastervolt Lithium-Ion system, the first for a boat of fourteen meters giving 220 volt AC systems without the need of a generator.  The system in the Ora 48 features a steel case that is five times stronger to isolate the batteries, this made to ensure safety and exceed upcoming regulations.  The Ora 48 is also well studied in the technical side, where for example removing the engine and or other technical equipment is easy to do.  The Ora 48 unlike its forbearer the 48 Flash which always featured surface drive propulsion, is powered by twin Volvo 600hp with IPS pod drives for top speeds up to forty knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14 m (45.9ft)
Hull Length - 13.6 m
Beam - 4.13 m
Draft - 1 m
Displacement - 15 t
Fuel Capacity - 1500 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D8 600hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS800 forward looking dual propeller pod drives
Speed - forty knots max, thirty knots cruise, twenty knots economic cruise
Project - Forma Design
Certification - CE A

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Project: Benetti B.Yond 57M

Benetti presents the B.Yond 57M project. The highest interpretation of the voyager and the largest hybrid unit of the Benetti B.Yond family, the 57M features exterior lines designed by Igor Lobanov and interior styling by Bonetti Kozerski Architecture. B.Yond 57M features three different DNA, each for a distinct way to be, and three distinct stern configurations: Beach, Air, and Water, thought for specific yachting experiences. The owner of the first unit selected the Beach version, optimized for seamless access to the water with an expansive 161 square meters beach area and a fifteen square meters pool, a key feature of the yacht, full outdoor service amenities, multiple configurations of the pool area thanks to a sliding sofa system that allows to cover the pool converting this space into a lounging area. The beach area is directly connected with the convertible garage deck, another multi configuration space of one hundred square meters that, when toys are in the water, can easily be converted into an enjoyable guest’s additional shaded spot creating an outstanding external/internal area. An innovative layout elevates the guest areas on the Main Deck and consequently the main salon on the Upper Deck, allowing for memorable panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows and creating a 22-meter, uninterrupted open space from bow to stern. This unique concept, a result of meticulous design studies, exemplifies Benetti’s commitment to push the boundaries and set new standards in yacht design.  

Saturday, March 15, 2025

New Launch: Yachting Developments 34.9m Hull 1024

Yachting Developments have launched in 2024 hull number 1024, a 34.9m custom build Carbon Fibre super sportfish yacht titled m/y Gramac VII. Designed as three of the four sportfish yachts build by Yachting Developments by Warwick Yacht Design, hull 1024 sports similar lines to the 2020 launched less to two meters smaller hull 1017.  Yachting Developments Hull 1024 is a custom super sportfish yacht with its criteria being able to do long range international passages on her own bottom. Thanks to the clever use of carbon fibre and weight saving interior, Yachting Developments is again able to build a large Sportfish that has the best of both worlds, capable of both high speed and long range.  Mostly specialized in sailing yachts Yachting Developments has become an important addresses for custom build 24 meters or larger super sportfish yacht, with the builder delivering four custom units from from 27 to 39 meters in the last twelve years.  
Technical Data:
LOA - 34.9 m (114.4ft)
Beam - 7.7 m
Draft - 1.9 m
Displacement - 225 gt *volume
Fuel Capacity - 24,000 l
Accommodation - ten guests in five cabins, four crew in two cabins
Engines - 2 x MTU 16V 2600hp
Propulsion - line shaft with moulded propeller tunnels
Speed - twenty knots cruise
Construction - carbon fibre
Project - Warwick design and naval architecture

Friday, March 14, 2025

Project: Ferretti 800

Ferretti present the 800, a pocket super yacht which completes the circle of the range renewal which started in 2018 with the 670 model. Now Ferretti Yachts has all its models from its entry level 500 to the 1000 all designed by Filippo Salvetti. A replacement of the 780 the 800 project was presented during Boot Düsseldorf and is under construction at Ferretti Cattolica shipyard, a result of collaboration between Filippo Salvetti exterior design, Ideaeitalia for interior, and the Product Strategy Committee led by Piero Ferrari and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department. The 600 will have a length overall of just over 24 meters, a version with a shorter stern platform is also available to comply with the 24-metre limit established by French law and a maximum beam of just under six meters.  Ferretti Yachts 800 is designed to offer the owner peerless comfort and a superior on-board lifestyle for a yacht this size, thanks to optimised spaces and meticulous layout planning. The most innovative features include large windows for uninterrupted views of the surroundings from the interiors and an optional sliding door on the starboard side of the salon; perfectly separated spaces to ensure total privacy; and optimisation of the exterior surfaces and particularly the flybridge which is now forty squared meters in size, further enriching the on-board experience. Turning to the exterior design, Ferretti Yachts 800 combines a modern aesthetic with the brand’s signature identity, and follows the lines as introduced with the 860, and now to be followed in the upcoming 940. The new design has a bold personality that projects the Ferretti Yachts range into the future, combining a sporty design with sophisticated detailing. One of the characteristic features of this model is in fact the gradual slope of the flybridge’s lines down towards the stern, breaking with the tradition that they are parallel to the hull. The result is a perfect balance between timeless elegance, dynamism and impressive volume. Ideaeitalia focused its efforts on layout-related and architectural choices, aiming to enhance the elegance of the interiors at the same time as ensuring functionality and intelligent design. There was a special focus on the main deck, where an in-depth analysis of movement flows has resulted in an innovative configuration, in which the galley opens onto both the main hallway and the helm station area, with the introduction of a new concept for separating guest and crew flows. The standout elements, unusual for a boat this size, include a day head on the main deck and, in the master cabin, a freestanding dressing table, a vanity area and a particularly generous and comfortable bathroom. In a rapid overview starting on the main deck, the beach area is aft, and also offers a fold-down sofa in the transom. The cockpit has a spectacular glass parapet designed to extend the view outside and towards the beach club, with access to the crew area, which features three separate cabins with entrance from the port side walkway. Continuing through the interiors, the salon is bathed in light thanks to extensive glazing, one of the signature features of the boat, which offers uninterrupted views of the sea and the surrounding area even when sitting on the sofa. The generous interior volumes are further enhanced by the exquisite arrangement of the furniture to maximise liveability and by the two-metre ceiling height. The two interior decor moods available are Classic which taps into earthy elements, and Contemporary, featuring glowing woods and fabrics in fresh hues inspired by the colours of the sea. In perfect Made in Italy style, both are designed to offer owners an elegant, inviting and well-balanced ambiance. Moving past the living space, the dining area contains an elegant table seating eight. At the same time, the fully appointed and separate galley is directly connected to this space through a sliding section in the bulkhead. Separate walkways are another unusual feature of the yacht, allowing the crew to enter the galley from the outdoor area and then access the wheelhouse without interfering with guest flows. It’s also possible to access the helm station from the hallway, which can be closed off completely to ensure maximum privacy. The exterior living area forward features a sunbed and a forward-facing C-shaped sofa designed for comfort. On the lower deck, the sleeping area consists of a master stateroom, a VIP suite forward and two guest cabins, providing a total of eight berths. There are four en suite private bathrooms. The flybridge area is also larger than the category average thanks to the sleek, arched profile of the superstructure. On the starboard side there’s an al fresco dining area and table, with a generous storage compartment under the fibreglass sofa, while on the port side there’s a bar unit with optional stools. The freestanding furnishings such as the chairs and poufs are by Talenti. The helm station forward offers comfortable seating and excellent visibility. Ferretti Yachts 800 is powered by standard Man 1550hp for a speed up to 27 knots, and or optional 1800hp for 31 knots of wide open throttle.

Thursday, March 13, 2025

New Model: Majesty 60

The Majesty 60 is the Gulf Craft prime brand current entry level model.  Conservative in look but with a sleek design, the Majesty 60 offers interesting spacious outdoor and indoor areas, including an expansive swim platform and alfresco dining. Her accommodation layout includes an astern galley layout looking inside, with a dinette opposite the galley and a saloon further forward of the main deck dining, lounging area.  The lower deck offers a three cabins layout with three heads with a full beam midships owners staterooms.  Majesty always says that a two cabin version, were I would imagine that the smaller third guest cabin becomes an office or an utility room.  The Majesty 62 offers also a spacious crew cabin aft with two opposite berths.  The Majesty 60 is powered by twin MTU 966hp for speeds up to nineteen knots, and a cruise of fifteen. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 18.39 m (60.3ft)
Beam - 5.27 m
Draft - 0.9 m 
Displacement - 29 t, 50 gt*volume
Fuel Capacity - 3646 l
Water Capacity - 567 l
Accommodation - six berths in three cabins, two crew in one cabin
Engines - 2 x MTU 8V2000 M72 966hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - nineteen knots max, fifteen cruise, twelve knots economic
Range - 900 nautical miles at twelve knots
Certification - RINA CE B

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Project: Marex 440 Scandinavia

The Marex 440 Scandinavia is the second version of the Danish shipyard’s flagship model, which debuted with the 440 Gourmet Cruiser in the second half of 2023.  The Marex 440 Scandinavia redefines the living and social spaces, offering two large dining areas onboard and ensures quick and direct access to the deck thanks to its pilot and co-pilot side doors.  The cockpit deck and one in the cabin area, with the galley moving on opposite side.  For the remaining the Marex 440 Scandinavia is identical to the Gourmet Cruiser, with a choice for a two or three cabins lower deck layouts, and engine choices which go from twin Volvo 440hp to 480hp, and are available in the trinity of propulsion options; IPS pod drvies, line shafts, and stern drives.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

New Model: JPK Nomad 40

JPK the France yacht builder founded in 1992 by Jean-Pierre Kelbert, specialized first in composite and then since 2003 sailing boat builder, enters into motor boating, with the Nomad 40. The JPK idea was to design an attractive motorboat for cruising with a focus on quality of life on board. The experience in building racing and fast cruising sailboats allowed JPK to approach the world of motorboats from a completely different perspective, both in terms of design and construction optimisation. In studying the sector JPK found that in the majority of cases, motorboats do not cover many miles and are limited to short trips because of discomfort and high fuel consumption. Enters the 40 Nomad as designed by Jean-Baptiste Dejeanty who presented a looking minimal design with a flush deck just above the water, and a modern, warm, open-air interior to communicate with a panoramic sea view. The Nomad 40 aim is to appeal to both sailors and motor enthusiasts by combining a thin, high-performance hull with voluminous superstructures for maximum optimisation of the living space all with a stylish clean design. The JPK Nomad 40 is powered by standard 110hp engines with optional engines going up to 195hp.  The JPK Nomad 40 also features options for extended range and living onboard, see option to to have double fuel capacity and extender water capacity by about sixty per cent.
Technical Data:
LOA - 11.98 m (39ft)
Beam - 3.70 m
Draft - 0.78 m
Displacement - 5 t
Fuel Capacity - 420 l, optional 2 x 420 l
Water Capacity - 440 l, optional 2 x 320 l
Accommodation - four plus two berths
Engines - 1 x Yanmar 110hp, 4LV 195hp, optional 15kw Blueline electic hybrid available
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - eighteen knots max with 110hp, twelve knots cruise, twenty knots max with 150hp
Project - Jean-Baptiste Dejeanty design, J Valer naval architect
Certification - CE B 6

Monday, March 10, 2025

Project: Outer Reef 540 Adenture

Following the successful announcement of the 780 Adventure in the Fall of 2024, Outer Reef presents the project for a 540 Adventure. Designed and engineered as the larger 780 Adventure in the Netherlands by Bernd Weel Design, with engineering by Studio Delta Naval Architects and interiors by Julian Moore Design, the 540 Adventure is a masterful blend of advanced technology and timeless elegance. The Outer Reef 540 Adventure is engineered for long-range and coastal cruising, offering a range up to two thousand nautical mile range at best per mile cruise, and is constructed and designed to CE Category A Unlimited Ocean certification. Known for their forward-thinking approach to yacht design, the Dutch design team, in concert with Outer Reef’s design team, have created a vessel that seamlessly blends cutting-edge innovation with timeless aesthetic appeal. Compact yet versatile, the 540 Adventure is designed to meet the needs of a broader audience, including new cruisers, owner-operators seeking a manageable size, and seasoned owners downsizing for ease of use. As a production style yacht, the 540 Adventure also offers a tailored touch, with a variety of fabrics and veneers available to suit individual tastes. The 540 Adventure features a three staterooms layout, including a full-beam midship master suite, and two well-appointed heads for maximum comfort and functionality during extended stays. Optional crew quarters offer additional flexibility for accommodating guests or staff. The Outer Reef 540 Explorer is to be build in fiberglass and powered by twin 800hp Volvo with conventional shaft drive propulsion systems.

Sunday, March 9, 2025

Beneteau Explorer Cruised Ends Aground in Big Pass, Florida

A thirteen meter Beneteau explorer cruiser with two persons onboard ended aground by Turtle Beach near Big Pass, Sarasota, Florida for a story shared by Florida Gulf Coast Marine Services on his YouTube Channel on the eight March.  Florida Gulf Coast who is part of TowBoatU.S assisted the boat, and ungrounded it who then proceeded with its own power, which suggest little power was made.  The boat ended aground for some missing markers which make it more difficult to navigate the channel.  
The boat in this accident is a Beneteau Swift Trawler 44 as designed by Joubert and Nivelt and produced from 2011 to 2019 in about five hundred units.  The Swift Trawler 44 was a replacement to the Swift Trawler 42, and was replaced by the Beneteau Swift Trawler 41.

Aquila New Web Site

Aquila presents its new web site.  Aquila from Hangzhou, China was founded in 2012 by the Xiong family owned Sino Eagle Group in a joint venture with Lex Rass, and MarineMax co-founder at the time CEO Bill McGill.  Sino Eagle Group was founded officially in 2007, but its founder John Zhangyou Xiong entered boat building in 1985 when he was studying carpentry and furniture making in China and working part time with a boat builder.  At the end of that same year John starts his own business and started designing and building high performance rowing shells, with his first build launched in March 1986, and the same rowing boat winning a gold medal in April 1986.  In 1990 Xiong will get his important breakthrough as he gets an order for 61 racing shells for the 1990 Asian Games, but this gets disrupted as the factory roof collapses in a storm some weeks before delivery destroying some of the finished shells.  Still Xiong and his staff with commitment and hardship will manage to complete the order, and deliver the shells in time.  In 2007 Sino Group is founded, while in 2011 Sino Eagle USA is formed in Florida.  This will lead to the Aquila brand arriving in 2012, first with the Aquila 38 which debuted in that year, and is followed by the Aquila 48 as designed by JandJ with input from MarineMax.  Today Aquila is recognized as the largest in volume Power Catamaran builder in the World, currently offering twelve power catamarans from eight to 21 meters, and divided into four series; Offshore, Sport, Coupe, and Yachts.  Aquila latest 2025 models are the just launched 42 Coupe and 46 Coupe.  Aquila new website takes you around with the following buttons; Offshore, Sport, Coupe, Yachts, Luxury, About, and Find a Dealer.  Aquila is also on social media with bottom page buttons taking you to its; Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Linkedin pages.
Production History;
38 2012-14 (12)
48 2013-18
44 2014-25
54 2021-
70 2021-
42 2023-
50 2024-
42 Coupe 2025-
46 Coupe 2025-
46 2025-
The first Aquila the 38 debuts in 2012

Saturday, March 8, 2025

Azimut Ends Beached in Bucerias Nayarit Mexico

A fourteen meter Azimut flybridge cruiser titled m/y Yalusa with seventeen people onboard ended semi beached and partly sunk at the mouth of the Arroyo del Indio river in Bucerías, Bahia de Banderas, on the Mexican Pacific Coast on Friday seventh March. Yalusa is reported to have first crashed in an Oyster farm, and then partly sunk and ultimately ended part beached.  Five days after the sinking on Wednesday the twelfth March, an excavator was filmed removing and wrecking the vessel, all this without any authorization from the federal agencies responsible for the care of maritime-terrestrial zones.  The oyster farmers in the area, pointed out that this would jeopardize the production of the mollusc for the Oyster Festival, which takes place annually at the end of March.
The Azimut in this accident is an AZ 46 model as designed by Stefano Righini for exterior and Carlo Galeazzi for interior, and produced from 1997 to 2004.  The Azimut AZ 46 came out as a replacement to AZ 43 Quarantatré, with the model evolving with minor modifications into the 46 Evolution in 2004 and then replaced by the 47 in 2007.

New Launch: Van der Valk 34.00 M Hull no WV0144

Van der Valk have launched m/y One hull number WV0144, the third yacht based on the 34 meter platform which debuted with hull WV0127, the ultra prized Lady Lene, and was followed by the WV0140 in 2023.  WV0144 came as an order from knowledgeable owners who’ve enjoyed decades on the water and joined the creative talents of exterior designer Guido de Groot and interior designer Carla Guilhem.  The answer is the powerful Project 111.11, a full-displacement 34-metre superyacht with twin Volvo Penta 750hp continuous duty engines and a top speed up to fourteen knots.  All four decks have been designed to meet specific needs on a yacht with a fold-out platform aft and a lazarette for jet-skis that will be a superb relaxation area in its own right. In fact, everything about this 34 meter Van der Valk revolves around entertaining large groups of people in style on a compact super yacht with lots of volume.
Technical Data:
LOA - 34.13 m (111.9ft)
Waterline Length - 31.8 m
Beam - 7.80 m
Draft - 2 m
Displacement - 295 gt *volume
Fuel Capacity - 31020 l
Water Capacity - 5550 l
Accommodation - ten guests in five cabins, six crew in three cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D16-Mh 750hp
Propulsion - line shaft with five bladed fixed pitch propellers
Speed - fourteen knots max, thirteen cruise
Hull Shape - round bilge full displacement
Construction - aluminium H321 4.5mg
Project - Guido de Groot exterior, Carla Guilhem interior, Diana naval architect
Certification - RINA C Hull Mach Y Short range

Friday, March 7, 2025

One Boat Two Yachts Wrecked by Fire in Northwest Miami

One boat and two yachts were destroyed by a fire off Northwest North River Drive near the Miami Marine Center marina and Jones Boat Yard, Miami River at 03:30 early morning time of Friday seven March. A nearby resident which works at Jones boat yard reported that the fire started as the smaller boat of the three exploded, with its fire then expanding to a yacht in-front, and a super yacht of thirty meters docked at its stern. Miami Dade Fire Rescue intervened for the fire with thirty units fighting the blaze from the land and water.  All three boats and yachts were wrecked, the smaller boat which started the fire sunk completely, the eighteen meter yacht mostly sunk with its bow left sticking out, and the large third one did not sink but had its super structure completely destroyed.  No one was injured in the fire as all yachts were unattended with this controlled just after 06:00 morning time.  An oil boom was deployed between the yachts to contain pollution as Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office arson investigators are probing the cause of the blaze.
The large super yacht wrecked in this fire is m/y Nirvana, a 2005 Rodman 105 as designed by its Spanish builder and reported to be delivered in only one unit.  The 105 is the largest Rodman build to date, with the Spanish builder being more known for its flybridge cruisers from ten to twenty meters.  The yacht further forward is an Azimut 62 Evolution, with the smaller boat in the middle looking to be a center console of about thirteen meters in length not identifiable.
This is the second news involving the same yacht Nirvana who in the same spot on the night of Sunday 23 July 2023 had a group of seventeen people who chartered the yacht holding the captain and crew at gunpoint demanding their money back.  No one was injured in this accident with one of the guest reported to be a known rapper whose name was not mentioned.

Carver Cruiser Destroyed by Fire in Little Creek Norfolk

 
A 72 year old man escaped uninjured as a ten meter Carver aft cabin cruiser was destroyed by a fire in Little Creek, Norfolk, Vancouver for a blaze which started at about 20:30 of Thursday sixth March.  Norfolk Fire-Rescue tended to the fire first, and were later assisted by the US Coast Guard.  The fire was tamed with both foam and water for a boat which ultimately was wrecked and half sunk.  The man who escaped the boat fire uninjured, was a live aboard on the aft cabin cruiser.  Norfolk Fire-Rescue, the Coast Guard, and the Environmental Protection Agency worked together to ensure any threats to the environment are minimized.
The boat in this fire is a Carver 36 Aft Cabin as produced from 1990 to 1992.  The 36 Aft Cabin was a replacement to the Carver 3607 Aft Cabin, and soft evolved into 370 Aft Cabin and then produced up to 1996.

Project: Amer 96 Sanremo

Amer enters the sportier size and side of the market with the project for this upcoming 96 Sanremo. A design of Antonio Luxardo the 96 Sanremo will feature an overall length of 28 meters with water line just under 24 meters, therefore making it able to be helmed by a yacht master offshore licence. Few details are available on layout of the 96 Sanremo, with the yacht set to challenge the likes of the Extra Fast line for example, or the more performance focused Sanlorenzo SP series. The 96 Sanremo will also be build with what Amer calls a new 4.0 mould that regulates the quality of the shapes, while interestingly it is reported that the yacht will have an aluminium super structure. The Amer 96 Sanremo is to be powered by twin or triple Volvo 1000hp with IPS pod drives. No speed data is yet provided.

Thursday, March 6, 2025

New Model: Cormorant COR780

Cormorant Yachts from Poland presents the COR780. The COR780 is Cormorant second in size model and presents itself as a spacious offer in a very competitive market segment. The Cormorant 780 offers a three double cabins lower deck, with a fourth small cabin, which can also be fitted as an owners office. The owners stateroom is located at midships, and also features a walk-in wardrobe, while a second large VIP suite is located forward. A crew cabin is located aft and has a storage room, and direct access to the engine room. The Cormorant COR780 is powered by twin Scania 700hp, with optional engines available till 1400hp for speeds up to 23 knots.
Technical Data:
LOA - 24.4 m (80ft)
Waterline Length - 21.1 m
Beam - 6.25 m 
Draft - 1.78 m
Displacement - 77.27 t loaded
Fuel Capacity - 15,000 l
Water Capacity - 1800 l
Max Persons - twelve
Accommodation - eight berths in four cabins, or six berths in three cabins, 1 crew cabin berth
Engines - 2 x Scania DI13 700hp, John Deere 6135SFM85 750hp
Propulsion - line shaft
Speed - seventeen max with 700hp, 7 knots long range, up to 23 knots with 1400hp engines
Range - 6550 nautical miles at seven knots with 700hp engines
Hull Shape - semi displacement with Extended Trailing Edge 
Construction - fiberglass
Project - Damian Dymecki Cormant yachts exterior and interior, Gregorz Wladzinski naval architect, StructTeam Limited UK
Certification - RINA CE A Ocean

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Project: Galeon 620 Fly

Galeon present the project for a 620 Fly, challenging the competition with its asymmetric main deck, and for having three drop down side balconies, two of which expand the beach club. The 620 Fly also features a dynamic two-tone hull, wide beam, and expansive glazed windows, ensuring breath taking views and a sunlit main deck. The flybridge offers U-shaped seating, a wet bar, and an automated sunroof, while an optional fabric awning provides extra shade. At the stern, which can spec'd with free-standing sun loungers or a spacious seating zone, creating the ultimate relaxation space. The asymmetric main deck maximizes space and accessibility, featuring wide starboard-side access to the bow’s leisure area. The innovative pantograph doors on both sides allow smooth movement between the helm and bow, while the center windscreen panel swivels open, seamlessly connecting the saloon and front lounge. The Beach Mode panels extend the cockpit by two meters, transforming the stern into an open-air oasis, with the hydraulic aft platform and starboard balcony create a spacious leisure zone, perfect for launching water toys. The owner’s private beach club offers direct sea access, while the crew cabin includes two berths, a kitchenette, and a bathroom for extended stays. Every element is designed for effortless transition between relaxation and water activities. Inside, the Galeon 620 Fly will feature modern design coupled to premium craftsmanship, developed in collaboration with a Hong Kong-based interior architecture firm it.  The lower deck will be available in three or four-cabin layouts, and will be designed with rounded cabinetry, and ambient lighting to create an atmosphere of luxury and comfort.. The Galeon 620 Fly is also offered in five distinct interior themes; Ocean, Amber, Terra, Pearl, and Ivory each inspired by natural materials and colours. The Galeon 620 Fly is to be powered by standard twin 900hp, and or optional engines up to 1200hp.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

New Model: SantaSevera 52

A fresh Italian name which presented itself in 2024 SantaSevera launches its first model as it debuted the 52 at the Düsseldorf boat show in January 2025.  Designed by naval architect and yacht designer Francesco Guida, the SantaSevera 52 could not have made a better debut, with the fresh Italian boat builder selling four units of the new model. The SantaSevera 52 blends sophisticated design, spacious and meticulously crafted living areas, and exceptional performance.  For the SantaSevera 52 Franesco Guida presented a modern, refined aesthetic, evolving the demands of today’s luxury weekender and chase boat market, all while showcasing the distinctive Italian craftsmanship that sets them apart. The SantaSevera 52 offers a lower deck sleeping four in two cabins combined with an exterior which features one of the spacious cockpit decks in its size.  The first unit of the SantaSevera 52 was powered by twin Volvo 480hp with IPS pod propulsion, with the yacht also available with shaft line propulsion amd or outboard power option.  Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive response at Boot Düsseldorf, SantaSevera is now focused on expanding its market presence, with a second 40 model being in advanced stages of construction and set to arrive in the second half of 2025.
Technical Data:
LOA - 16.35 m (53.6ft)
Hull Length - 15.7 m
Waterline Length - 14.4 m
Beam - 5.05 m
Draft - 1.15 m
Displacement - 16.5 t half load
Fuel Capacity - 1400 l
Water Capacity - 600 l
Max Persons - fourteen
Accommodation - four berths in two cabins
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 480hp
Propulsion - line shaft, or Volvo forward looking IPS pod drives
Speed - thirty knots max with Volvo 480hp and line shaft 
Project -Francesco Guida design and naval architect

Monday, March 3, 2025

Project: Viking 50 Convertible

During the Miami boat show Viking announced and showcased the renderings for an upcoming new 50 Convertible.  The third generation 50 Convertible will be the first of a quadrumvirate of fifteen meter Viking's to come in the Open, the Sport Coupe/Sport Tower, and the Billfish sharing the same hull but different in the rest.  The 50 Convertible comes as a replacement to the third generation 48, which saw eighty boats delivered in the Convertible, Open, and SC/ST.  The 50 Convertible is set to debut for the 2025 Fort Lauderdale boat show, a model that shares design traits with the latest larger Vikings: flush foredeck for increased safety; modified upper chine and aggressive strakes for improved spray deflection and a dry ride, stylish feature lines on the hull, deckhouse, and bridge; and recessed salon windows highlighted with radiused perimeters. The flybridge features a streamlined walk-around center console with a recessed black acrylic dash holding two touchscreen Multifunction Displays. The captain has excellent sightlines to the cockpit, and a dropdown electronics box can be integrated into the fiberglass hardtop, just forward of another space dedicated for teaser reels.  A lounge with armrests and drink holders is integrated into the forward section of the console, with storage beneath. Additional padded bench seating is to port and starboard. Immediately to starboard of the helm is a refrigerated drink box. The 50's length-to-beam ratio has been optimized for maximum speed and a soft, dry ride.  To maximize strength and minimize weight, specific construction materials and methods are utilized to build the Viking 50. The hull along with all tankage and structural bulkheads are resin-infused to optimize the fiberglass-to-resin ratio, achieving exceptional strength.  Additional construction techniques, such as Light Resin Transfer Moulding, along with the incorporation of various core materials, with specific densities based on their location and the use of carbon fibre increase overall build quality and ensure industry-leading fit and finish. Significant weight savings have also been achieved with specially selected interior woods. Throughout the hull, a modified vinilester-epoxy resin is employed for blister protection and improved structural performance. The business end centres around the twelve square meters cockpit, which is equipped with large, insulated in-deck fish boxes that can be refrigerated. The transom holds a live well that doubles as a fish box or a place to store gear. Anglers have toe-kick space in every direction and rounded coamings for comfort. The boat is engineered for the installation of a Seakeeper 10 or 14, with the unit mounted in a dedicated space on centreline in the lazarette, protected by a watertight lid with compression latches.  There's a freezer under the mezzanine's lounge seat, along with a cooler beneath the step. On centreline, you have access to the engine-room. On the port side, there’s additional cooler storage and a tackle cabinet. The flybridge overhang provides shade. The cockpit also features a transom door with a lift gate, recessed stainless steel cleats with corner hawse pipes for easy line handling and power cord management. The coamings are fitted with four flush-mounted rod holders (with the option for more) and optional haunch rod holders. Accommodations Step into the salon, and you'll be delighted by its open-concept, contemporary design that accentuates the natural light flowing through the large windows. The interior's horizontal grain walnut can be ordered in high gloss or satin. In keeping with its clean, spacious styling, the salon features overhead strip LED lighting bordered by walnut. To port, you'll find an L-shaped lounge and a walnut cocktail table.  New to this size of Viking is a raised dinette, which provides excellent visibility outside and storage for rods in a slide-out drawer below.  Another convenience is the standard icemaker, located at the inboard end of the peninsula-style galley's countertop. There’s also a refrigerator and a freezer under the counter, each with two pull-out drawers. The galley is appointed with a stainless steel sink, a Miele four-burner cooktop and cabinet storage above, that includes a standard microwave oven. Viking interior designers are constantly striving to provide you with the utmost comfort while maximizing the interior volume. Depending on your choice of accommodation plan, you can comfortably sleep up to nine people on the 50. The master stateroom located at midships to port-side is appointed with a walkaround queen bed, and an ensuite head with a large shower.  A spacious forward stateroom can be appointed with either a queen bed or a crossover arrangement featuring a double lower bunk and a single upper bunk. The second guest stateroom, located aft on the starboard side, features upper and lower bunks and private access to the guest head, which is shared with the forward stateroom. Storage is plentiful throughout the staterooms, with cavernous compartments beneath the queen berths, hanging lockers and other cabinet spaces. The Viking 50 Convertible is to be powered by standard Man 1000hp or optional 1200hp engines.  Speed data is not yet specified by Viking says exceptional, so to the least this should be in the high thirties.

Sunday, March 2, 2025

New Launch: Feadship 65.00m Hull.711

Feadship has launched the 65 meter hull 711.  Tiltled m/y Promise.D, hull 711 is built to Ice Class notation and has full explorer functionality. The super yacht joins other famous Feadship explorers which started in 2003 with the 42.63 meter hull. 791, followed by hull. 815 in 2018, the similar looking hull.701 from 2018, and the most recent hull. 708 from 2021. Designed by Studio De Voogt who also did the naval architecture, hull 711 like the same designed and similar looking hull. 701 is the least explorer looking of the quintet of Feadship explorers.  This Feadship 65 meter has interior designed by Bannenberg and Rowell, who presented a twelve guests in six luxurious staterooms accommodation.  Feadship hull 711 is equipped with Veth 1250 kw electric motors and azimuth thrusters propulsion for a top speed up to fifteen knots and a range of over five thousand nautical miles. 
Technical Data:
LOA - 65 m (213.2ft)
Beam - 12.86 m
Draft - 3.60 m
Displacement - 1809 gt*volume
Fuel Capacity - 47,661 l
Water Capacity - 2742 l
Accommodation - twelve guests in six cabins, 
Engines - 2 x Veth 1250i CR 1676hp
Propulsion - Azimuth pods
Speed - fifteen knots max
Range - 4500 nautical miles
Construction - steel hull, aluminium super structure
Project - De Voogt exterior and naval architecture, Bannenberg and Rowell interior
Certification - Lloyds 100A1 Ssc Yacht, Mono G6, Eco, Ice class 1E LMC UMS Hybrid Power  

Saturday, March 1, 2025

Risky Fairline Again

It looks like only a couple of years ago that Fairline went bust only for it to be revived by two Russian entrepreneurs and get the going again.  In reality this was the fall of 2015, nine years ago, all of this seeming so present and similar to what happened in the last month or so.  

Truth be told the Russians had a good plan at the get go, they hired Alberto Mancini, when he was in that growing sphere, and today makes him one of the most sought yacht designers of current times.  The Russian owned Fairline started well, with three entirely new models coming in the first three years, and updates to the ones which were still in production and had a good time going and growing for them.  Then after 2019, Fairline returned to its usual self, new models apart some updates here and there were slow to come by, and Mancini was let go.  All this made it miss the yachting boom and opportunity the following Covid-19 pandemic gave to yachting.  Especially since this left it with a few important holes in its model offer versus the competition.  For example in the competitive seventeen meter flybridge segment Fairline had no offer from 2013 till 2024.   

Ultimately from 2021 to 2024 Fairline had three ownership changes, with the last one coming from Arrowbolt Propulsion Systems Limited in early December not looking pretty from the start.  In January Fairline ends for the second time in its story in administration in a bit less to ten years.  Since then Fairline has stabilized itself, at least for now, with some buyers reportedly lined up interested in buying it.  But truth be told, for Fairline the time has come to find itself again, looking at what it was in its story and what it wants to be.

Its recent and current business plan, which has not changed much since the noughties, of offering larger and luxurious boats and yachts is not doing any good.  Fairline has to become more competitive, and stop to try re-inventing its wheel, and look at itself before looking at the others.  When Fairline did this, see the F-Line 33 it actually worked, as this has been its best selling model onwards from 2016.

Friday, February 28, 2025

George Nicholson 1937 - 2025

 
It is with great sadness that Camper and Nicholsons announce the passing of George Nicholson at the age of 87 on the 27 February.  Born 23 April 1937 into a family and name which is part of yachting history, fourth generation Nicholson George was the man responsible for adding the brokerage arm of the then famous and exclusive Camper and Nicholsons yacht builder.  He will be the chairman of Camper and Nicholson International, the brokerage firm till 2007.  George Nicholson started the brokerage adventure in 1959, opening its first sales offices in Cannes, then Antibes, Monaco, London, Palma, and then the United States, what today is thirteen World scattered offices in all the important yacht places of the globe.  George Nicholson also made headlines over the years, as when for example he sold motor yacht Albecaro, the 1963 Dutch build Kerstholt 40 meters from the hands of Monaco’s Prince Rainier to Abu Dhabi’s Sheik Shakbut, the first brokered yacht exceeding one million US$ in value.  Another headline for George Nicholson will come when he represented the owner for the new build CRN 47 meter m/y Awal which was the first yacht with a touch and go helipad.  George Nicholson contributions to the yacht industry are part of yachting, in brokerage as in yacht building, as Camper and Nicholsons looks to the future, now carried forward by next generation Fernando Nicholson.