August 26, 2008

New Model: Atlantis 50x4

This is a very innovative new model from Atlantis, the Sport Cruiser and Sport Yacht brand of the Azimut Benetti Group, spanning from 31 to 55 feet. Announced as the 48 model during the last Genova Boat Show, the new Atlantis 50x4 was previewed during the Groups yachting gala, held in Viareggio on 28 June. The 50x4 presents itself with innovation and versatility, and available as the title says in 4 different versions, accommodating the various customers requests and needs, but apart this the new Atlantis has also other advantages not seen in a sport yacht of this size. Like the particularly spacious upper deck with a single level walkable surface in teak of over 12 sq. yards, the almost total UV infrared resistant full glass hard top, a record height under the hard top with a good 196cm of headroom over the helm and new IPS engines offering better performance with significantly reduced fuel consumption. The four different versions of the new Atlantis span from the inside available in two or three cabin versions, or the upper deck available with patio door or without in an open layout. The new 50x4 is powered by Volvo's IPS 600 engines, which in our estimate should give top speeds of over 30 knots and cruising in the higher 20s range. Now it's just to wait for the public to admire the new Sport Yacht from Atlantis, with official presentation in September during the Cannes show.
Technical Data:
LOA - 15.27 m (50.1ft)
Hull Length - 14.22 m
Beam - 4.35 m
Fuel Capacity - 1100 l
Water Capacity - 420 l
Max People - 14
Accommodation - 4/6 in 2/3 cabins with 2 heads
Engines - 2 Volvo IPS600 435hp
Propulsion - Volvo IPS forward looking duoprop pods
Designer - Carlo Galeazzi
Certification - CE B

August 25, 2008

New Model: Estensi 400 Goldstar S

Presented during the last Genova Boat Show, the Estensi 400 Goldstar S is the latest model to enter the traditional lobster styled cruiser line from this Italian builder. The new 400 Goldstar S is a traditional cruiser bringing elegance and dynamics to her well proportioned lines, taking some of its exterior looks from the very nice 540 Goldstar S model, flagship of the Estensi range. It extends the builders fame as a seaworthy cruiser, making it not only an exclusive and refined product but also a safe one. She is as her builders say a well done design exercise, reinterpreting lobster boat style with a nice Mediterranean living touch. Inside the new 400 Goldstar S offers 2 cabins with 2 heads, joined by a comfortable upper saloon area, offering the perfect layout for the right Mediterranean cruise. The latest 400 Goldstar model is powered by 2 x Iveco NEF 400 hp engines, giving speeds of 30 knots plus and a range of over 300 nautical miles.
Technical Data:
LOA - 12.90 m (41.3ft)
Length - 12.60 m
Waterline Length - 10.55 m
Beam - 4.00 m
Draft - 1.25 m
Weight - 10.000 kg empty, 13.400 kg loaded
Fuel Capacity - 1.500 l
Water Capacity - 500 l
Max Persons - 10
Engines - 2 x Iveco NEF 400hp
Speed - 34 knots max with minimum load, 30 knots with load
Range - 369 nautical miles approx
Designer - Mario Zuccheri
Hull Shape - vee shape with 18 degrees aft
Certification - CE A

August 23, 2008

Project: Lazzara LSX 92

Nearly two years after the introduction of its highly successful LSX Seventy Five, Lazzara Yachts is announcing its plans for the completely redesigned follow up, the LSX Ninety Two, scheduled to launch Fall 2008. The award winning Lazzara product development team didn’t just want to build a bigger LSX 75, they wanted to reinvent it. The Lazzara design team added all new features to make the LSX 92 stand apart from the rest, including bold new styling, an expansive flybridge, a private water level terrace off the master stateroom, a retractable aft sun deck shade, a more spacious floor plan than most yachts of its size, and Quad Volvo Penta Quad IPS II drive units. One of the most unique features of the 92 is the generous aft section that includes a large teak swim platform with a garage for toys that converts into a shaded area suitable for entertaining. Lazzara’s 92 features three staterooms plus a master, and crew quarters for two with an optional third bed. The layout also includes Lazzara’s trademark atrium galley. Additionally, those who purchase the yacht will have choices of Lazzara’s signature woodwork in new, contemporary veneers and finishes. The cutting edge 75 was launched in October 2006, and with all new Volvo IPS drives, joystick control and a sleek and elegant design, it immediately became highly acclaimed and widely published. The legacy of innovation through cutting edge rapid prototype technologies won the LSX 75 design team several awards, including the most innovative yacht in its class by Yachts International at the 2007 Cannes International Boat Show. As Dick Lazzara President of the company points out, the new LSX 92 is the new big sibling for the 75, but is also a total different and new yacht, achieving new dimensions in comfort and functionality.

August 22, 2008

New Model: Mainship 31 Pilot

Take a tried and true hull design that harkens to the glory days of the downeast-style lobster boat, update it with a refreshing sedan and cockpit treatment, and you have the newest addition to the Mainship Pilot family, the Pilot 31 Sedan. The first thing you will notice about the new Pilot 31 Sedan is the all-weather sedan cockpit deck. Enclosed on three sides with an available aft enclosure, this area may turn out to be the focal point of your activities aboard. The full helm sports a swivelling companion chair to port, and lies just forward of the Pilot 31 Sedan's cockpit galley. This alfresco cooking area features an electric grill, stainless steel sink, refrigerator/freezer, microwave, and generous storage, all topped with a genuine Corian® countertop. To add to this area's charm, we've provided comfortable lounge seating for up to 6 people that can dine at the convenient folding dinette table. The Pilot 31 Sedan will truly take dining and entertaining to the next level. When its time to relax below, you can retreat into the warmth of an inviting cherry wood interior with a gorgeous cherry plank sole. As you descend, you'll note the pleasant 6'3" of headroom, with the feeling of spaciousness further achieved by five strategically positioned, screened stainless steel portlights. Watch your favorite programs on the standard 20" flat panel TV with DVD. When its time to turn in, a queen size island berth will sleep you in comfort, and the convertible sofa will expand to full-size upper and lower berths. You can sleep four adults in the comfortable salon of the Pilot 31 Sedan! The wet head is easy to maintain fiberglass with a Corian®-topped vanity, and a roomy cedar-lined hanging locker will hold your clothing. When you're underway, you'll immediately notice how quiet the Pilot 31 Sedan is, yet another design element from the Mainship team! Whether you want a weekend away or an extended cruise, the newest addition to the Pilot family awaits you, See the Pilot 31 Sedan today!
Technical Data:
LOA - 10.80 m (35.5ft)
Length - 10.19 m
Beam - 3.10 m
Draft - 0.76 m
Displacement - 5,320 kg
Fuel Capacity - 681 l
Water Capacity - 151 l
Engine - 1 x Yanmar 6LPA-STP2 315hp

August 21, 2008

Projects: Beneteau 47 Monte Carlo Hard Top, Beneteau 11 Antares

The new 47 Monte Carlo Hard Top, designed by P.Andreani, takes the modern sport cruiser range of Beneteau to a wider more important audience. It will offer a host of novelties to the Monte Carlos, not only for it's extra 3 metres in length to the 37 model which will make her the new flagship of the range, but thanks to an innovative interior and cockpit layout. The new 47 will have a complete enclosed hard top with patio door, closing half part of the cockpit when the weather is not sweet. On the lower deck the big Monte Carlo really impresses, shaking the and challenging the competition with a smart and spacious layout, featuring the ever demanding full beam owners cabin but also the bonus of offering 2 different options, with a 3 or a 2 cabin version, the last giving an L-shaped settee in the lower deck in replacement to the third cabin. In the plans viewed so far the striking feature seem to be the spacious galley, but also the third cabin with in line berths. Engine options and performance have not announced, but imagine speeds over 30 knots as the smaller Monte Carlos.
It will officially be introduced next September, but we cannot resist the pleasure of announcing the birth of a new generation of Antares. With its abounding space, new levels of comfort and efficient hull the Antares 11 is bound to hold the attention of those who enjoy thrills and long breaks as well as anglers. Designed by Beneteau with P. Sarazin the new 11 Antares will have accommodation for 4 in 2 separate cabins, plus extra 2 berths available in the convertible saloon. Power will be provided by twin Volvo 260hp engines, driving trough shafts.

August 20, 2008

New Model: Grand Banks 41 Heritage EU

The new 41 Heritage EU puts a Grand Banks icon in a whole new perspective. In one bold stroke, the legendary Heritage Series design has been expertly married to a new and innovative set of features, starting with a truly state-of-the-art propulsion system. As a result, the 41EU cruises smoothly and efficiently at 10 and 24 knots alike. Handles a tight slip as confidently as a tall sea. Impresses with her luxury as much as her practicality. Goes faster and farther, yet still rides cleaner and quieter. In 1964, Grand Banks launched the first in a long succession of boats that would become the Heritage Series. Combining a genuine nautical spirit with the very best in materials and manufacturing, equipment and engineering, it brought a remarkable new cruising experience to owners around the world. An icon was born, and boating was changed forever. In 2008, Grand Banks does it again. And once more, cruising will never be the same. It's everything you expect in a Grand Banks. Refined nautical style, intelligent design, meticulous attention to detail. A master stateroom with queen berth and a generous guest cabin provide ample room for two couples. Contemporary furnishings and décor blend with GB's classic teak joinery, enhancing the sense of luxury. Teak decks, an expansive flybride and a host of additional features inside and out promise to make the 41EU another cruising classic from Grand Banks. It's unlike any Grand Banks we've ever built. Powered by the Zeus propulsion system, the 41EU delivers unparalleled control, speed and efficiency. Dock with pinpoint accuracy; hold a rock-steady position in wind and current; travel faster and farther while using less fuel. Today's most advanced marine propulsion system joined with a new modified deep-V hull design: together, they deliver a revolutionary new level of performance, at both planing and semi-displacement speeds.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.2 m (46.5ft)
Length - 12.6 m
Waterline Length - 11.6 m
Beam - 4.7 m
Draft - 1.7 m
Fuel Capacity - 1,893 l
Water Capacity - 757 l
Displacement - 16,783 kg

August 19, 2008

Boat Review: Itama Forty


Presentation
Classics of the classics. This is how I always described, the glorious boat builder Itama and it's range of boats. Founded 1969 in close premises to Italy's capital city Rome by Mario Amati, Itama was among the first answer to the legend that Teodoli's Magnum was creating in the States. The Itama 38 presented in 1979 was the first reply from Amati, creating with this new model also the first underwater exhaust system. Fast forward to 2004 and here comes the acquisition of Ferretti Group, with the Pershing holding of Itama. The Forty designed by Marco Casali replacing the 40 as reinterpreted by Amati, was the first reply from the new owners and it was already a shining star of better things to come for this legendary brand of timeless Power Yachts.
Accommodation
When launched in the fall of 2005 the Itama Forty surprised everyone in the accommodation fronts. First thanks to the cockpit layout with a big sun lounger, c-shaped settee to starboard, helm station to port and a wetbar just behind it. Second to a very smart 2 cabin interior something always missing from the old 38 which at the time was conceived by Amati more as a weekender for a young couple.
The new forty reversed this trend with a two cabin interior giving impressive accommodation while still keeping with the Itama legendary clean lines. For the nostalgic Itama also offered a single cabin version with two L-shaped saloon settees and a spacious galley to starboard taking the place of the second cabin.

Performance
Itama has always been a follower of pure deep vee hull design with the renowned 22 degrees angle aft of its hulls. The Forty follow the rules it's founder created, and differs from previous Itamas by taking advantage of modern vee drive solutions, which loose nil performance as it was in the past but adds space for comfort below. The Itama Forty thanks to the study of Ferretti Engineering keeps the wonderful weight balance the white blue hulls have a fame for, with an overall improvement. If taking out at sea with a reassuring boat is your thing, the Itama want disappoint your expectations thanks to a perfect balanced hull and a classic deep vee that slices the water in perfect manner.
Positive
Two cabin interior version
Cockpit space layout
Bathing platform functionality
Timeless lines
Negative
No railing to go forward, but I would not want one on this boat
Competition
A lot of competition for Itama, mostly coming also from Central South Italy, like renowned builder Baia, but also some new comers offering the closest threat like XL Marine with there 43 offering a very similar concept to the Forty. Other choices include the 44 Rivarama a modern interpretation, but with the Riva classic flare going into it, with the same idea going behind the Sarnico Spider. Modern looking but what could not be missing here is the Magnum 44 Banzai which offers tremendous performance. As a wild card we choose a lobster boat from USA builder Hinckley for those who still want a classic line but may may be with something more over there heads.
Baia 43 One - loft style single cabin IPS or surface drives, alternative cockpit
Magnum 44 Banzai - single cabin, aggressive modern Pininfarina lines, surface drives
Riva 44 Rivarama - a pure open from Riva, more modern style, 2 cabins
Sarnico 43 Spider - same theme to Riva, invisible second cabin with head, IPS
Unica 42 - classic lines modern windshield, various options inside and propulsion
XL Marine 43 - from the people created the previous 40, similar but 2 cabin heads option
WILD CARD: Hinckley 44 Talaria - lobster classic lines, full weather protection, 2 cabins
Conclusion
If you want a classic no frills design, strong build and a good sea keeper there is not much looking then the Itama Forty. She is undoubtedly the classic of classics, and the improvements made, make sure she will last for an other decade and more. Compared to the previous 38 and 40 models, the new interior layout, cockpit and bathing platform arrangement give the Forty the extra step ahead offering much greater volume for owners who want to use there Itama not only for fast hops between a marina and an island, but also for an extended Summer cruise. The latest Itama Forty completes the cycle thanks to it's modern interior, good accommodation and the handling performance that only a boat that is built around balance and followed by accommodation can give, but most of all outside it remains clean and unchanged as the Itamas have been since eighties.
Technical Data
LOA. 13.36 metres (43.8ft)
Hull Length. 12.25 metres
Beam. 3.95 metres
Draft. 1.22 metres
Displacement. 13.7 t loaded, 10.7 t empty with standard equipment
Fuel Capacity. 1130 litres
Water Capacity. 330 litres
Max Persons. 12
Accommodation. 2 cabins or single cabin version with single head
Engines. 2 x MAN CR 450hp
Propulsion. Shaft Drive Speed. 35 knots max, 30 knots cruising
Project. Marco Casali, Itama
Certification. CE 94/25 A
www.itama-yacht.com
Picture Copyright Itama. Data Itama.

August 18, 2008

New Model: Windy 48 Triton

The 48 Triton is the new and elegant member for the Norwegian Windy family, bearing a clear resemblance to the successful 52 Xanthos. In other words it is a luxury sport cruiser, with a classic timeless design, beautifully crafted and carefully thought out detailing. The new Windy follows the range renowned deep V-hull, which combined with powerful Volvo engines give an exciting and comfortable ride at high speeds. A tinted sliding door separate inside from outside, leading into the cockpit saloon, with its pale coloured plush furnishings. It has a curved sofa and matching table, a stainless steel rail along the wet bar and a helmsman area featuring a dashboard with an anti-glare coating. Below deck the saloon, furnished in light colours and satin finish woodwork, contains an L-shaped sofa and 26’ flat screen TV, as well as a fully-equipped pantry with ceramic hob and a combined microwave oven. The middle cabins, guest toilet and bathroom lead off from the saloon. The starboard cabin has twin beds whilst the port cabin has a comfortable double bed. The master suite in the bow, offers a double bed, wardrobe and en-suite bathroom with shower.
Technical Data:
LOA - 14.52 m (47.7ft)
Beam - 4.20 m
Weight - 12.5 t dry
Fuel Tank - 1500 l
Water Tank - 350 l
Accommodation - 6 berths
Engines - 2 x Volvo D6 370hp, D6 435hp, D9 575hp with shafts
Propulsion - Volvo forward looking dual propeller IPS pod drives, or shaft drives with 575hp
Speeds - 34 knots max, 30 knots cruising estimated with Volvo 575hp IPS pods
Range - 300 nautical miles estimated with Volvo 435hp IPS propulsion
Architect - Hans Jergen Johnsen
Certification - CE A

August 17, 2008

Project: Menorquin 240 Custom Yacht

The Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 has been created by the prestigious designer Fulvio de Simoni, it is a fusion of unmistakable Menorquin style and ingenious solutions. De Simoni is one of the most prestigious yacht designers with an extensive career which he has developed in the top naval construction firms worldwide. By the time he was 25 years old he set up his own studio from which he has designed for among the most notable yacht builders in Italy, the United States and Turkey. The new Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 has exceptional habitability. This is thanks to its hull shape which, like other Menorquins, has a very broad beam. The swimming platform has a hydraulic retractable extension which makes use of the boats full length. As De Simoni outlines the Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 is a 24 metre boat with the habitability of a 26 metre boat. The new Menorquin flagship has 4 completely separate living areas, 3 on the main deck and 1 on the flybridge. The stern cockpit leads out to the swimming platform, is overlooked from the saloon-dining area and is equipped with an outdoor dining area for up to 10 people. The sleek saloon-dining area is accessed from the stern cockpit area and also at the sides from the deck passages that run from the bow to the stern. This area is equipped with a high bar on the stern port side, a simple stylish cupboard on the stern starboard side and a spacious L-shaped sofa towards the centre of the living area. The dining table is in the bow end of the living area and seats 8 normally but can be extended to seat 10 people. The lateral boat sections facing the saloon side doors fold out to form exterior balconies. The bow has a large sundeck and a third living-dining area that seats eight and can be reached from both sides. The flybridge has a fully equipped dining area, solarium and helm console with 3 independent pilot seats. Cupboards suitable for housing a barbecue, small sink and fridge are found on the starboard side. The tender may be stored aft on the flybridge level where there is sufficient space to store a jet bike and a 4 metre inflatable. A hydraulic davit is positioned on the starboard side for quick and easy release. The Menorquin Custom Yacht 240 incorporates two fully equipped helm stations, one inside and the other on the flybridge. The interior main helm is on the starboard side and has two helm seats. The console’s wood and leather finishes are designed to avoid reflections from the windscreen, a pantograph style door marks a change in composition to this area of the yacht. On the port side is a small study area with a corner desk for use as a computer or card table. A part from a fully equipped kitchen, the lower deck has been intended entirely for rest. There are two double and two single cabins, each with their own washrooms. The main cabin is located towards the centre of the boat and the VIP guestroom is in the bow, both occupy the full beam of the boat and are fitted with double beds, bedside tables, desks, chaise lounges and wardrobes. Both cabins have en suite washrooms and dressing rooms. Because the beam at the bow is practically the same width as at the boats mid-point, the VIP cabin is an exceptionally ample living space. Independent crew accommodation is also found on the lower deck with can be accessed from the main deck. There are two single cabins and facing them is a separate washroom. The kitchen has been designed to incorporate a crew dining area. The yacht’s propulsion is guaranteed by a pair of 1.550 CV diesel engines, which deliver estimated performance of a maximum 24 knots and continues cruising at 20 knots.

August 16, 2008

New Model: Princess V 85

A new concept in a dynamic design the Princess V85's stunning good looks disguise a very practical and spacious interior layout, as well as a number of new design features. Princess V Class sports yachts are renowned for high performance and the V85 is no exception, with a deep V hull and a choice of the latest diesel engines giving speeds close to 40 knots. Distinctively for a sports yacht, the V85 incorporates a small flying bridge with full repeat controls and a large seating area with refrigerated cool box. The spacious cockpit features a seating dining area for eight and as well as a bar area. The forward area of the large saloon incorporates a sliding roof which opens over the control position and the dining area. A sliding door to starboard gives access to the side deck. With a full beam owner's cabin and three additional guest cabins, all en-suite, the lower accommodation provides comfortable and luxurious accommodation for eight. The V85 also features a large galley which has the option of being fully enclosed or open plan. There are two crew cabins together with a galley and mess area accessible from the starboard side deck. Each cabin can be fitted with one or two berths giving provision for a maximum of four crew. The V85 is a sports yacht, which combines practical, spacious accommodation and thrilling performance with a high degree of seaworthiness, ease of handling and control and a genuine long-range cruising capability, all within timeless and elegant lines and breathtaking good looks.
Technical Data:
LOA - 25.91 m (85ft)
Beam - 6.27 m
Draft - 1.81 m
Fuel Capacity - 6.000 l
Water Capacity - 1.205 l
Displacement - 60 T with Caterpillar 1820hp engines full fuel and water tanks
Engines - 2 x Caterpillar C32A 1820hp, MTU 16V2000M92 2180hp
Speeds - 38 knots max with 70% load and MTUs 2180hp option